AGNEW, Samuel H. ( a retired farmer of Marion Township, Ogle County, Ill., owning more than a section of fine land within its limits, and one of the most prominent men in his locality, was born in Scott Township, same county, October 4, 1857. His father, James Agnew, was a native of Ireland, and the birthplace of his mother, Sarah (Graham) Agnew, was in, Canada. During the '50s they came to Ogle County, Ill., locating in Scott Township, where James Agnew followed, his wonted vocation, that of farming, for a long period. About the year 1899, he and his wife moved to Stillman Valley, which is now their home. They became the parents of six children, all of whom are living. James Agnew has always been a Republican in politics, and, in religious faith, his parents are Congregationalists. Samuel H. Agnew, who is the eldest of the family, was brought up on the paternal farm, in the vicinity of which he received a common-school education. In early manhood he applied himself to farming on his own responsibility, and continued thus on rented land in Marion Township, for nearly ten years. Then he bought a farm, acquiring additional land from time to time, until his landed possessions reached a total of 642 acres. In the fall of 1904, he relinquished his agricultural labors, and since that period has spent his time in leisure.

On August 10, 1882, in Marion Township, Ogle County, Mr. Agnew was united in marriage with Carrie L. Merrifield, who was born in that township, a daughter of John and Lucy (Stewart) Merrifield, old settlers in the locality. The father of Mrs. Agnew died on his farm when forty-two years old, but his widow still survives. To the subject of this sketch and his worthy wife three chiidren have been born, namely: Neva L., Clarence J. and Norma L.

In political action, Mr. Agnew has always been identified with the Republican party, and has taken an active and leading part in township and county affairs, serving as Supervisor several terms. He has been one of the successful farmers of Northern Illinois, and is classed as a representative citizen of Ogle County.

 

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