Alton (Ill.)

Scope and Contents Consists of a bound volume contianing a list of subscribers to the Alton Spectator newspaper, giving local, state and out-of-state names.

Abstract Benjamin Godfrey served in the merchant marine during the War of 1812 and later became a commander of a merchant vessel until shipwrecked off the coast of Mexico. Later became head of a merchant house in Matamoras, Mexico, and entered into a mercantile partnership with Winthrop S. Gilman while in New Orleans. Opened a storage and commission business in Alton, Illinois in 1832. Obtained control of the State Bank of Illinois and operated it from 1835 until the panic of 1837. Founded Monticello...

Scope and Contents Subscriptions signed by citizens of Alton, Illinois, pledging donations for relief of victims of the Chicago Fire, made at public meetings October 10, 1871, and after.

Abstract Alton, Illinois hardware store incorporated in 1884 and owned by Hugh Kirkwood Johnston (1844), who had emigrated from Scotland in 1853 with his father and siblings. After he completed school, Johnston worked in gas and steam fittings for three years until he became a blacksmith. He worked at this until he enlisted in Company K, 97th Illinois Infantry on July 25, 1862. He served throughout the Civil War and was mustered out as a Sergeant-Major in July 1865. He returned to work as a blacksmith...

Scope and Contents Consists of one bound volume including meeting minutes, lyceum constitution and membership list.