Stephen G. Abbott

 

SURNAMES: ABBOTT, CONGER, REU, MOREHOUSE

STEPHEN G. ABBOTT - The present Postmaster of Mahomet, was born in New Jersey, May 25th, 1825, and was the fourth child of Bijah and Elizabeth (CONGER) ABBOTT. His father was a native of New York, and his mother of New Jersey. Ezra and Morehouse ABBOTT, brothers of his father, participated in the last war with Great Britain. His childhood and youth was passed in his native town, where he had very limited advantages for acquiring an education. He succeeded mainly through his own exertions in getting considerable practical information, and also in learning the blacksmith trade. Upon attaining his majority he went to Boston, where he remained two years, when he came west, and went to New Orleans. In 1849 he came to St. Louis, and from there went overland to California, where he engaged in various occupations. After a stay of a year, and having been quite successful, he returned to his native State. After a short visit he again proceeded west, travelling through Ohio and Illinois, to Mahomet, where he located and invested in land. He married February 20th, 1854, Miss Mary E. REU. They have had three children: Byron D., Laura E., who married H. J. MOREHOUSE, and Abijah C. In politics he was a Whig, and subsequently a Republican. During the rebellion he enlisted in company H, 125th regiment Ill. volunteer Infantry, and was in eight engagements. At Atlanta, during Sherman's campaign, he was wounded by a shot which he still carries, and which for several years after the close of the war, prevented his engaging in any business. He has frequently been called upon to devote some of his time to public duties, and now in addition to the office of postmaster, he holds those of Village and School Treasurer. Whatever he has accomplished in life is owing entirely to his own exertions and habits of industry and economy. He is a man of good mind and social standing, a reputable citizen, and one who enjoys the competency his prudence and foresight have brought him.