GERLAW.

R.W. Gerlaw

"Gerlaw City," as the plat calls it, was laid out by Robert Gerlaw, April 19, 1871, on the southeast quarter of the northwest quarter of Section 34. T. S. McClanahan was the surveyor, and he made nine blocks, with Depot, Olive and South streets running east and west, and Railroad, Gerlaw and Gilmore streets running north and south.

A.A. Elder opened the first store in Sept. 1871. James Webster sometime after, built a large store, with a fine hall in the second story. A brisk trade has been carried on there, considering its nearness to the county seat. The books of the R.R. Co. show that the shipment of stock has reached more than 200 cars in a single year. Very little grain is shipped from this point, as all is needed by feeders of stock.

The Christian Church was organized in 1858 by Rev. L.S. Wallace, and a house of worship was built about two miles north east from town at a cost of $950. This building was moved to the town site in 1874, and was thoroughly repaired. Among the first members were J.T. Gilmore and wife, R.W. Liar and wife, B.F. Gardner and wife and others.

A. A. Elder was appointed the first postmaster early in the same year. He was succeeded August 1, 1883, by John A. Foster, who served until March 1,1886. A. G. Parker was postmaster until April 1, 1891, being followed by Chas. L. McClanahan, whp served until January 7, 1898. Ivra Q. Robison was then postmaster, being succeeded by Frank Terry, January 20, 1894, and he by the present incumbent, Clarence Young, October 1, 1897

 

Churches

 

 

 

 

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois

Submitted by W. Caudell

 

 ©Wini Caudell and Contributors

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Illinois Ancestors

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