John T. McGinnis, came to Mercer county in 1846, and located in Millersburg township. At that time the country was sparsely settled. Like most of the pioneers, he came with small pecuniary means, to seek a home. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born 1821.

His parents are William and Elizabeth McGinnis, both natives of Pennsylvania, his father of Irish, and his mother of Scotch descent. They followed agriculture for a livelihood, and belonged to the United Presbyterian church. John T. received little literary training in his. early life, but was well bred in the characteristics of the people of the Quaker state, namely, energetic industry and honesty.

Two year& before his coming to Mercer county he was married to Margaret Kiddoo, of Pennsylvania, born in 1824, and daughter of James and Mary Kiddoo, both natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. McGinnis's children are Mary E., Sarah, Emily, William, Alice, Maggie, Charlie E., and Cora S. He was justice of the peace before the township organiza­ tion, and has held the office of supervisor fourteen years. He represented Mercer and Knox counties in the legislature during the sessions of 1874 and 1875. Apart from the offices mentioned he has been chosen to fill most of the offices of the township.

Mr. McGinnis has a beautiful home of 100 acres, located on section 21. Here he lives a quiet farmer's. life, while his accumulated capital is employed in other directions. He has never engaged in speculation, but kept his means employed where reasonable returns were certain. He was at one time stock holder in a bank at Keithsburg, and at this time owns an interest in the Farmer's. Bank in Aledo, and also in one in Kansas. He and wife are members. of the Peniel Presbyterian church. Politically he is a republican.

 

History of Mercer and Henderson County

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