Harold Ralph Yeazel
1918 - 1988 (70 years)
Generation: 1
Generation: 3
Generation: 4
1. Harold Ralph Yeazel was born on 6 Mar 1918 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois (son of Chester Rolla "Rollie" Yeazel and Sophia Cordella Hedges); died on 15 Nov 1988 in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana; was buried on 18 Nov 1988 in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Occupation: chiropractor
Notes:
Fairmount – Harold R. Yeazel, 70, of Marion, Ind., formerly of Fairmount, died at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday (Nov. 15, 1988) at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Indianapolis.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Carrington Funeral Home, Fairmount, the Rev. Ed Brown officiating. Burial will be in the GAR Cemetery, Homer. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. EST Saturday at the Social Brethren Church, Marion, Ind. Visitation will be from 6 to 8:30 tonight at the funeral home.
Mr. Yeazel was born March 6, 1918, near Fairmount, a son of Rollie and Sophia Hedges Yeazel. He married Verniece Sylvester in 1940. He later married Mildred Stewart. Survivors include two sons, H. Gene Yeazel of Sidney and Robert A. Yeazel of St. Joseph; six grandchildren; a brother, Howard Yeazel of Catlin; a niece; and a nephew. Mr. Yeazel farmed in the Fairmount area until 1954. He then operated a construction and drainage business. For the past 25 years he was a chiropractor at Marion, Ind. He was a member of the Social Brethren Church at Marion, Ind., the Moose Lodge and the Fraternal Order of Police Benevolent Association. Memorial contributions may be made to the GAR Cemetery Association or the Social Brethren Church of Marion Ind. (transcribed by Homer Historical Society)
member of Center Point Church
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/105457778/harold-r-yeazel
Block 16, Lot 34, Space 1Harold married Verniece Sylvester on 20 Aug 1940 in Kankakee County, Illinois, and was divorced before 1963. Verniece was born on 28 Nov 1918 in Illinois; died on 7 Jan 2015; was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney, Champaign County, Illinois. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
Children:- Harold Gene Yeazel was born on 15 Apr 1943 in Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 28 Feb 2017 in Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana; was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney, Champaign County, Illinois.
Family/Spouse: Mildred Faye Steward. Mildred was born on 8 Nov 1923 in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana; died on 8 Dec 2011 in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana; was buried in Washington Park East Cemetery, Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
2. 
Chester Rolla "Rollie" Yeazel was born on 11 Sep 1893 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois (son of Adam Wallace Yeazel and Sarah Amelia Cessna); died on 21 Jun 1979 in Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Occupation: farmer
- Census: 1920, Sidell Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1930, Sidell Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1940, Sidell Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
Notes:
1920 US census. Household members: C.R. Yeazel, age 26, farmer. Sophia age 27, and Harold age 1. Farm is rented.
1930 US census. Household members: Chester R. Yeazel age 36, farmer, Sophia C. age 37, Harold R. age 12, and Howard B. age 9. Farm is rented.
1940 US census. Household members: C. R. Yeazel age 46, farmer, Sophia age 47, Harold age 22, farmer, and Howard age 19, student,. Farm is rented.
note on Find a Grave:
Chester "Rollie" Yeazel was born to Adam and Sarah Yeazel in Homer. In 1915, he married Sophia Cordella Hedges in Fairmount, and they had two sons: Howard and Harold Yeazel. Rollie and Sophia lived in the Center Point area for 27 years, starting in 1918 and were members of the Center Point Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday School superintendent. They moved to Fairmount on March 6, 1945 and he entered public office in 1949, serving as Fairmount Mayor until 1968, including a short time in the early 1960s when he initially didn't seek re-election, but was asked to return after the winning candidate stepped down shortly after election. Improvements under Rollie Yeazel to the town of Fairmount included the installation of the water system and water treatment plant in 1951 at a cost of $135,000 that was raised through municipal and revenue bonds, new signals and gates for the railroad crossing and natural gas that was pumped in from the Sidell area. After he stepped out of public office, he took up the hobby of caning furniture.
Contributor: LISA DAVIS (50366112)
member of Center Point Church
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/75774585/chester-r_-yeazel
Block 16, Lot 34, Space 3Chester married Sophia Cordella Hedges on 24 Oct 1915 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois. Sophia (daughter of George Fielden Hedges and Cora Belle Gritton) was born on 10 Nov 1892 in Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 19 Sep 1974 in Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
3. 
Sophia Cordella Hedges was born on 10 Nov 1892 in Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois (daughter of George Fielden Hedges and Cora Belle Gritton); died on 19 Sep 1974 in Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Notes:
Sophia C. Yeazel, 81, of Fairmount died at 10:24 a.m. Thursday (September 19, 1974) in Lake View Hospital, Danville, where she was admitted Wednesday night.
Mrs. Yeazel was born November 10, 1892, east of Jamaica, a daughter of George and Cora B. Gritton Hedges. She was married to C. Rollie Yeazel Oct. 15, 1915, in her parent's home.
Mrs. Yeazel leaves her husband, sons, Harold R. of Marion, Ind., and Howard B. of Catlin, three grandsons, one granddaughter, four great-grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Willis Fox of Fairmount. A brother preceded her in death.
Mrs. Yeazel spent all her life in the Fairmount-Homer area. She was a member of Catlin Church of Christ and in Berean Class.
member of Center Point Church
Name:
More photos of Sophie at her page on the Hedges site, along with links to her father's ancestry.
https://hiltner.com/hedges/getperson.php?personID=I92&tree=tree1
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/75774647/sophia-c_-yeazel
Block 16, Lot 34, Space 2Children:
- 1. Harold Ralph Yeazel was born on 6 Mar 1918 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 15 Nov 1988 in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana; was buried on 18 Nov 1988 in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Howard B. Yeazel was born on 21 Nov 1920 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 29 Aug 2011 in Tulsa, Tulsa County, Oklahoma; was buried in Oakridge Cemetery, Catlin, Vermilion County, Illinois.
Generation: 3
4. 
Adam Wallace Yeazel was born on 20 Dec 1851 in Champaign County, Illinois (son of Adam Yeazel and Maria Crabill); died on 10 Mar 1942 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried on 12 Mar 1942 in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Occupation: farmer
- Census: 1880, Vance Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1900, Ogden, Champaign County, Illinois
- Census: 1910, Ogden, Champaign County, Illinois
- Census: 1920, South Homer Township, Champaign County, Illinois
Notes:
IN the 1880 US census Adam Wallace Yeazel , age 28, is head of household which includes his wife, Sarah, age 22, and two childrne ages 2 and 6 months.
In the 1900 US census, Adam Wallace Yeazel, age 48, is head of household which includes his wife, Sarah, age 44, and six children ranging in age from 4 to 17 years old. He is a farmer who works on rented land.
In the 1910 US census Adam, age 58, is head of household which includes his wife Sarah, age 54, and three children ages 14 and 16.
In the 1920 US census Adam, age 68, and Sarah, age 63, are living at 301 West Frist Street in South Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
In the 1930 US census Adam, age 78, and Sarah, age 74, are living at 301 West First Street in Homer.
In the 1940 US census Adam, age 88, and Sarah, age 65, are still at 301 West First Street in Homer.
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/85194334/adam-wallace-yeazel
Block 11, Lot 21, Space 2Adam married Sarah Amelia Cessna on 4 Jul 1877 in Vermilion County, Illinois. Sarah (daughter of William Cessna and Sarah Jane Hawkins) was born on 11 Feb 1856 in Stark County, Ohio; died on 1 Sep 1953 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
5. 
Sarah Amelia Cessna was born on 11 Feb 1856 in Stark County, Ohio (daughter of William Cessna and Sarah Jane Hawkins); died on 1 Sep 1953 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Notes:
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/85194408/sarah-amelia-yeazel
Block 11, Lot 21, Space 1Notes:
Married:
Marriage License Abstracts Vermilion County, Illinois 187501876-1877. Page 58. No record of anyone signing for bride or groom. Adam Yeazel, age 25, is from Homer [Champaign County, Illinois]. Sarah Cessna, age 21, is from Vance Township [Vermilion County, Illinois].Children:
- Nellie M. Yeazel was born on 29 Mar 1878 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 31 Aug 1976 in Champaign, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Zella Myrtle Yeazel was born on 16 Dec 1879 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 21 Feb 1972 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Troy Garfield Yeazel was born on 13 Aug 1882 in Illinois; died in Feb 1970 in Calhoun County, Iowa.
- Sigel Morton Yeazel was born on 10 Aug 1884 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 24 Apr 1948 in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Mable Ellen Yeazel was born on 11 Feb 1887 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 19 Dec 1982 in Normal, McLean County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Bertha Mary Yeazel was born on 16 Dec 1889 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 13 Sep 1988 in Decatur, Macon County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- 2. Chester Rolla "Rollie" Yeazel was born on 11 Sep 1893 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 21 Jun 1979 in Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Ada Blanche Yeazel was born on 28 Oct 1895 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 19 Jun 1975 in Newman, Douglas County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
6. George Fielden Hedges was born on 29 Dec 1856 in Morehead, Rowan County, Kentucky; died on 19 Jan 1950 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Occupation: farmer
- Census: 1900, Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1910, Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1920, Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1930, Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1940, Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois
Notes:
1900 US census, Household members: George F. Hedges, age 33, farmer; Cora D. age 29; Sophia C.. age 7, Ralph J. age 6, Grace G age 4, and farm laborer Lewis O. Cox age 22. Farm is rented.
1910 US census. Household members: George Hedges age 43, farmer; Cora age 38, Sophia age 17, Ralph age 15, and Grace age 14. Farm is rented.
1920 US census, Household members: George F. Hedges, age 53, farmer; Cora B. age 49, and Grace G. age 24. Farm is rented.
1930 US census. Household members: George F. Hedges age 63, farmer. and Cora B. age 59. Farm is owned.
1940 US census. Household members: George Hedges, age 73, farmer, and Cora, age 69. Farm is owned. Value of home $2,500.
member of Center Point Church
Name:
More information about George Fielden Hedges's family at our Hedges family site: https://hiltner.com/hedges/index.php
and his individual page: https://hiltner.com/hedges/getperson.php?personID=I82&tree=tree1
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/78801478/george-f-hedgesGeorge married Cora Belle Gritton on 15 Jun 1891 in Vermilion County, Illinois. Cora (daughter of John Franklin Gritton and Sarah Catherine Cline) was born on 28 Aug 1870 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 16 Apr 1961 in Tilton, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
7. 
Cora Belle Gritton was born on 28 Aug 1870 in Vermilion County, Illinois (daughter of John Franklin Gritton and Sarah Catherine Cline); died on 16 Apr 1961 in Tilton, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. Notes:
Friends gave her a surprise
(Press-Democrat Special.)
Fairmount, Ill., Sept. 2. - One of the most delightful entertainments of the season was the birthday surprise on Mrs. Geo. Hedges last Sunday, at her home northeast of the village. The event was planned and executed by her husband and daughters. While Mrs. Hedges was busily engaged in serving dinner to some friends who had accompanied her home from Sunday school and church, her friends to the number of seventy-five or more slipped into the front rooms of her home and came marching out to the dining room with her mother in the lead, which, by the way, was a great surprise, the latter having come out from Danville.
The afternoon was spent in a social and religious way. About 4 o'clock the crowd repaired to the front yard where some fifteen or twenty minutes was devoted to song and prayer, and the breaking of bread, which was presided over by Rev. Scott, of Danville, after which the remainder of the evening was spent in song, and social conversation, and the eating of cream, cake and candy and fruit, and a general good time was enjoyed by all. One singular feature connected with their gathering was that the hostess was surprised on her 18th birthday in 1888, in the same house where she now lives. Mrs. Hedges was the recipient of many beautiful pieces of china.
Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No publishing information available.
Mrs. Cora Hedge of Fairmount has been visiting the family of Frank Gritton on East Park street this week.
The Champaign County News, Champaign, Illinois. Saturday, 27 May 1893, page 1.
member of Center Point Church
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/78801438/cora-b-hedgesChildren:
- 3. Sophia Cordella Hedges was born on 10 Nov 1892 in Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 19 Sep 1974 in Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Ralph Jewell Hedges was born on 27 May 1894 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 22 Jun 1969 in Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola, Vermilion County, Illinois.
- Grace Gertrude Hedges was born on 28 Oct 1895 in Fairmount, Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 9 May 1988 in Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola, Vermilion County, Illinois.
Generation: 4
8. Adam Yeazel was born on 25 Nov 1807 in Clark County, Ohio (son of Abraham Yeazel and Mary Curl); died on 27 Mar 1852 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in Old Homer Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Census: 1850, Champaign County, Illinois
Notes:
LKH note:
Entries on Ancestry and on Find a Grave give Adam's parents as Abraham Yeazel (29 Apr 1774-2 Jan 1832) and Mary (Curl) Yeazel (30 Oct 1776-22 Sep 1828), both buried in Asbury Cemetery, Catawba, Clark County, Ohio. Find a Grave lists 13 children.
LKH Note: In the 1850 US census Adam Yeazel, age 43, is head of household which includes his wife, Maria, age 43, and eight children ranging in age from 20 to 1 year old. All of the children are listed as being born in Illinois. Adam Yeazel's real estate is valued at $2,000.
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/185745874/adam-yeazelAdam married Maria Crabill on 16 Nov 1829 in Clark County, Ohio. Maria (daughter of David Crabill and Barbara A. Bear) was born on 3 Oct 1807 in Loudoun County, Virginia; died on 7 Oct 1885 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in Old Homer Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
9. Maria Crabill was born on 3 Oct 1807 in Loudoun County, Virginia (daughter of David Crabill and Barbara A. Bear); died on 7 Oct 1885 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in Old Homer Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Notes:
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/21809916/mariah-yeazelChildren:
- Eliza Jane Yeazel was born on 16 Sep 1830 in Illinois; died on 27 Aug 1851; was buried in Old Homer Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Sarah Ann Yeazel was born on 27 Mar 1832 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 24 Jan 1900 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- John B. Yeazel was born on 18 Feb 1834 in Illinois; died on 19 Mar 1903 in Saint Joseph, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in Patterson Cemetery, Saint Joseph, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Mary Yeazel was born about 1837 in Illinois.
- Elizabeth Yeazel was born on 23 Jun 1841 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 17 Apr 1923 in Ogden, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried on 20 Apr 1923 in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Isaac Yeazel was born about 1843 in Illinois.
- James Person Yeazel was born on 14 Feb 1847 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 27 Nov 1928 in South Homer Township, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried on 29 Nov 1928 in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- William Franklin Yeazel was born on 12 May 1849 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; died on 21 Aug 1923 in Hopedale, Tazewell County, Illinois; was buried on 24 Aug 1923 in Orendorff Cemetery, Hopedale, Tazewell County, Illinois.
- 4. Adam Wallace Yeazel was born on 20 Dec 1851 in Champaign County, Illinois; died on 10 Mar 1942 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried on 12 Mar 1942 in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
10. William Cessna was born on 7 Nov 1822 in Medford County, Pennsylvania; died on 25 May 1908 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Occupation: farmer
- Census: 1860, Tippecanoe, Marshall County, Indiana
Notes:
"William Cessna Taken Suddenly
Well Known Landowner of Homer Victim of Pneumonia
Homer, Ill. May 25.—William Cessna died at his home here at 8:10 o'clock this morning after an illness since last Thursday from pneumonia. The end had been expected, but it came sooner than was anticipated, Mr. Cessna passing very suddenly. His illness rendered him somewhat delirious, and he refused to stay in bed. He was sitting in a chair and asked to be put in bed. He then took some medicine and died without a struggle.
The decedent was born November 7, 1822, in Medford County, Pennsylvania. His father was Evan Cessna. On May 18, 1850, the son married Sarah Jane Hawkins in Stark County, O. This union brought five children, one of whom, Mrs. Abe Smith, died in Ohio about twenty years ago. The surviving children are: John W. Cessna of Chanute, Kas., Sarah Amelia, wife of Adam Yeazel of north of Homer; Martha Ellen, wife of Marion Tibbetts of this place and William L. D. Cessna of Adrian, Mich.
For several years after his marriage the decedent followed his trade as a brick and stone mason in Mahoning County, O. In 1856 he moved to Marshall County, Ind., and in 1875 he came to Vermilion County and purchased land. He resided in that country until three years ago, when he divided all except 240 acres of his land among his children and moved to Homer, where he purchased the late home on Coffeen and Southeast Street. His land at that time amounted to 1,016 acres.
Mrs. Cessna died in 1864 and Mr. Coffeen married Mrs. Lucina Melser on January 29, 1865. The second wife and three children survive, as follows: Rosa I., wife of H. H. Price; Charles M. Cessna, and Mary M., wife of Mortimer Current of Danville.
The decedent had never been a member of any church or fraternal organization except the I. O. O. F., and his membership in that order was dropped a number of years ago.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon from the home, Rev. W. D. Fairchilds, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church, preaching. Interment will be at the G.A.R. cemetery." - The Champaign County News, Wednesday, May 27, 1908, page 2 (Transcribed by the Homer Historical Society)
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/96766943/william-cessna
Block 4, Lot 29, Space 6William married Sarah Jane Hawkins. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
11. Sarah Jane Hawkins Children:
- John W. Cessna was born about 1852 in Ohio.
- Artissa Anna Cessna was born about 1854 in Ohio.
- 5. Sarah Amelia Cessna was born on 11 Feb 1856 in Stark County, Ohio; died on 1 Sep 1953 in Homer, Champaign County, Illinois; was buried in GAR Cemetery, Homer, Champaign County, Illinois.
- Martha E. Cessna was born about 1858 in Indiana.
- William Cessna was born about 1862 in Indiana.
14. 
John Franklin Gritton was born on 6 Jul 1842 in Illinois (son of Milo B. Gritton and Jane S. Burton); died on 1 Jul 1924 in Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. Other Events:
- Occupation: farmer
- _MILT: Civil War
- Census: 1870, Blount Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1880, Blount Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
- Census: 1910, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; 11 1/2 N. Washington, rented upstairs son Lewis Gritton's household
- Census: 1920, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; 11 N. Jefferson, rented house next door to son Lewis Gritton's household
Notes:
US Civil War Draft Registration Records. Blount Township. Jess Gritten. Age 28. White. Farmer. Married. Born in Illinois.
In same record, just above Jess's entry are entries for his cousins (sons of Milo B. Gritton and Jane Burton):
Merriman Gritten. Age 24. White. Farmer, Married. Born in Illinois.
a few lines below is: John Gritten. Age 20. White, Farmer, Married. Born in Illinois.
LKH note:
Have not yet found any record that John Gritten served in the army.
1870 US census, enumerated 16 August 1870
Blount Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
John F. Gritton, age 28, farm laborer
Sarah Gritton, age 27, keeping house
Catharine Cline, ag 78, at home
Not far away are the households of William Gritton, age 44, and of John R. Gritton, age 62. John R. Gritton was the father of the late Jesse Gritton, Sarah's first husband, and in his household are Jesse and Sarah's two sons, John age 8 and Charles age 6.
1870 US agricultural census:
John F. Gritton
Blount Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
Improved land - 10 acres
Unimproved land - 200 acres
Horses - 2
Milch cows - 1
Other cattle - 1
Swine - 2
Value of livestock #335
Winter wheat - 33 bushels
Indian corn - 150 bushels
Estimated value of all farm production - $108
1880 US census, enumerated 20 June 1880
Blount Township, Vermilion County, Illinois
John F. Gritton, age 36, farmer
Catharine, age 35, keeping house
Cora B., age 10, at home
Lewis A., age 10 months, at home
Benjamin Milliner, age 22, boarder, farm laborer.
Cora is listed as can not read or write.
1910 US census, enumerated 18 April 1910
Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois
112 North Washington Street
John F. Gritton, age 66, laborer in grain mill
Sarah, age 65
Next door is the household of their son, Lewis A. Gritton, age 30.
1920 US census, enumerated 5 January 1920
Danville, Ward 2, Vermilion County, Illinois
1920 N. Jefferson Street
John F. Gritton, age 77
Sarah K., age 76
They live next door to the household of their son Lewis Gritton who is a motorman for the street car.
John F. Gritton was the first appointed postmaster in Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois He served from 21 March 1894 until 30 Jun 1898. National Archives, Record of Appointment of Postmasters. Vermilion County, Illinois, v.87, page 609.
Aged couple given a pleasant surprise
Mr. and Mrs. John Gritton were reminded Sunday of golden wedding anniversary.
(Special to the Morning Press)
Fairmount, Ill., Aug. 14 - Mr. and Mrs. John Gritton were given a very pleasant surprise last Sunday afternoon at their home in Jefferson street, south side, by the children and grandchildren coming in to help them celebrate their golden wedding anniversary. Refreshments of ice cream and cake were served and all enjoyed a most delightful time. About thirty enjoyed this event. The out of town guests were Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gritton, of Odell, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Hedges, of Chrisman, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Rolla Yeazel, of Homer, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Hedges, Jamaica, and Mrs. Lula Dinnick and daughter, of Bloomington, Ill, from Danville were: Mr. and Mrs. Lew Gritton and family and Miss Wilma Hall, of Chicago, Mrs. Mary Wisler and daughter, Mrs. Berry and Ernest Gritton. Mr. Gritton was 7y the 6th of July and Mrs. Gritton was 75 the 5th of June. Both are enjoying good health and their many friends and relatives wish for them the best of life's blessings the remaining years of life. Both Mr. and Mrs. Gritton were born in Illinois and are among one of the many prominent pioneer families of this county.
Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No publishing information available.
Allison-Gritton-Casat Reunion.
One of the most pleasant and largest family reunions held in this dity this season was that of the Allison, Gritton and Cosat families, held at Lincoln park Sunday Sept. 2 when 100 or more were present. Owing to the inclement weather the crowd was not as large as it would have been if the rain had not kept many away who would otherwise have been present and who missed a most enjoyable day. Out of town guests were: Marion Shumate and wife of Conway, Ark., which is the first visit here of Mr. Shumate in 30 years, he being a former resident of Blount township, also George Gritton and family of Spencer, Ind. Found state were represented namely: Illinois, Indiana, Arkansas and Iowa.
Everybody had a good time and were glad that they were present all agreeing on holding the reunion of 1924 on the first Sunday in September at Lincoln park, in this city.
The same officers of last year were re-elected with C. W. Cosat as president; and Oakie Allison, secretary.
John Gritton and wife, ages 82 and 81 respectively were the oldest guests present. They are residents of Danville and live on the South Side.
Rev. Norton and Rev. H.O. Wilson, each gave interesting talks. A find dinner was the feature of the day and during the afternoon, ices and cakes were served, making up a most pleasant day for all.
Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No publishing information available.
Gritton family holds reunion.
The first annual reunion of the Gritton family, descendants of early settlers of Vermilion County, was held Sunday at Lincoln park and was well attended by representatives from far and near. A fine dinner was enjoyed at the noon hour by nearly 200 members. Mac Lee, of San Francisco, who came the farthest distance to attend the reunion, has been absent from this county almost 30 years. Uncle John Gritton, of the South Side, was the oldest member of the family present. He is almost 90. The afternoon was spent in renewing old ties. The members looked forward with pleasurable anticipations to the reunion to be held at the same place some time in August, 1921.
Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No publishing information available.
J.F. Gritton pioneer dies at age of 84.
Farmer and Danville merchange dies in South Danville home.
John Franklin Gritton, retired farmer and former owner of feed yards, and who would have been 84 years old had he lived five days more, died at his home, 11 North Jefferson street, South Danville at 1:40 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Mr. Gritton was a lifelong resident of Vermilion county and since coming to Danville a quarter of a century ago has made his home in South Town.
Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock from the residence.
Mr. Gritton was born in Blount township, July 6, 1842, the son of pioneer stock and one of three children, a brother M.L. Gritton, who formerly lived in South Danville, and a sister, Mrs. Belle Hensley, preceding him in death. During Mr. Gritton's life he resided near Fairmount on a farm and 25 years ago moved to Danville where he owned feed yards, first on walnut street and later on Hazel street, part of the time, operating both places. He retired 15 years ago.
He was married to Miss Sarah K. Cline on Aug. 9, 1869, and to this union five children were born, two of whom, Mrs. George Hedges of Fairmount and Lewis A. Gritton, a motorman on the Ridgefarm-Georgetown line, survive. Two sons, Franklin M. and Everett M. Gritton died when they were 7 and 5 years old, when they were given an overdose of medicine by mistake. The two brothers were buried in the same casket. A daughter, Grace May, died in infancy. Besides the son and daughter, Mr. Gritton is survived by the widow, Mrs. Sarah Gritton.
Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No publishing information available.
John F. Gritton, pioneer, is dead.
Well-known resident of South Danville succumbs to paralysis.
John F. Gritton, 82, died at his home, 11 North Jefferson street, South Side, Tuesday afternoon. He was stricken with paralysis Monday, June 23, the entire right side being affected. Death, which came at 1:40 o'clock Tuesday afternoon, had been expected for several days.
Funeral services will be held at the family residence at 1:30 o'clock Thursday afternoon, and the interment will be in the family lot at Springhill cemetery.
John Franklin Gritton was born in Blount township, northwest of Danville, July 6, 1842 and came of pioneer stock. His father died when he was eight years of age and much of the work of keeping the family fell upon his shoulders. His mother died a few years later, leaving him largely dependent on his own resources.
Aug. 9, 1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah K. Cline, who survives. To this union, five children were born, two, Mrs. George Hedges and Lewis A. Gritton, a motorman on the interurban railway between this city and Ridgefarm surviving.
Mr. Gritton about 1882, became a tenant on the farm of Dr. H. W. Morehouse, of this city, near the town of Jamaica and after remaining there for nine years removed to the Will Carrigan farm about a mile distant, where he remained for eight years. Then he retired and removed to this city.
Danville Commercial News Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No date available.
member of Center Point Church
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/79513334/john-franklin-grittonJohn married Sarah Catherine Cline on 9 Aug 1869 in Vermilion County, Illinois. Sarah (daughter of Andrew Jackson Cline and Eliza Ann Milliner) was born on 5 Jun 1843 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 18 Dec 1929 in Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried on 21 Dec 1929 in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]
15. 
Sarah Catherine Cline was born on 5 Jun 1843 in Vermilion County, Illinois (daughter of Andrew Jackson Cline and Eliza Ann Milliner); died on 18 Dec 1929 in Jamaica, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried on 21 Dec 1929 in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. Notes:
LKH note:
Sarah Catherine's father (Andrew Jackson Cline) died seven months before she was born and her mother (Eliza Ann Miliner Cline) died a month after she was born. She was raised by her grandparents, John B. and Catherine (Shumate) Cline. After John B. Cline died in 1856, she and her grandmother appear in the 1860 census in the household of John B. and Catherine's oldest son, Spencer Cline.
Mrs. John Gritton has entirely recovered.
South Danville, Ill. March 31 - The many friends of Mrs. John Gritton will be pleased to learn that she has fully recovered from her recent serious illness and left yesterday for Rossville to make an extended visit with relatives and friends.
Newspaper clipping from Cora (Gritton) Hedges. No publishing information available.
member of Center Point Church
Buried:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/79513441Notes:
Married:
Marriage License Abstracts Vermilion County, Illinois 1853-1874. Page 57. No record of anyone signing for bride or groom. This was Sarah's second marriage.Children:
- 7. Cora Belle Gritton was born on 28 Aug 1870 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 16 Apr 1961 in Tilton, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois.
- Franklin M. Gritton was born on 26 Jan 1873 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 12 Mar 1879 in Vermilion County, Illinois.
- Everett M. Gritton was born on 6 Oct 1876 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 12 Mar 1879 in Vermilion County, Illinois.
- Lewis Adolphus Gritton was born on 29 Jul 1879 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 23 Aug 1962 in Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois; was buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois.
- Grace M. Gritton was born on 12 Aug 1885 in Vermilion County, Illinois; died on 9 Dec 1885 in Vermilion County, Illinois.