John H. Belt, one of the early settlers of the county, and a prominent citizen, was born in Madison county, Ill., March 10, 1827; his parents being Horatio N. And Mary (West) Belt, both of whom were native Virginians. The former died Jan. 8, 1870, at his residence in Fieldon, and his mother yet lives at that place, at the advanced age of 80 years. John H. was reared on a farm, and worked for his father until 19 years old. He then went to Calhoun county and was there engaged in agricultural pursuits three years, then moved back to his county, where he purchased 160 acres of land, and lived on the same. In 1854 he moved to Fieldon, and built the Eugenie flouring mill. In 1864 he moved back to his farm, bought 240 acres more of land, which has since been his home. Soon after moving back he completed a fine two-story residence, fo brick construction, 22x44 with an L 18x32, having all the modern improvements, including a McPherson wrought iron furnace, heating the house by steam. He has a beautiful home, and is now in the enjoyment of a competency fairly won. He was married, Oct. 10, 1847, while a resident of Calhoun county, to Matilda Bramlett, of Jersey county, daughter of Elkana and Sarah (Lofton) Bramlett. Her farther was a native of Virginia, and her mother of Kentucky. They are the parents of eight children, six of whom are living - William O., Walter S., Floyd T., Helena M., George W. And John H. Those deceased were - Helena, who died April 12, 1856, and Isadora, who died Aug. 15, 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Belt are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church at Fieldon, of which society he is the present pastor. He owns 400 acres of land, and has considerable property. Mrs. Belt's mother, Sarah Bramlett, makes her home with them. She is now 82 years old, and has been a consistent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church for 50 years. She has been afflicted with blindness about eight years. Mrs. Belt's father built one of the first houses at Jerseyville, in 1834, one of the first store buildings, and the first blacksmith shop. He has thus witnessed the development of this county, and been an important factor in transforming it from a state of natural wildness to a desirable, well settled country, teeming with wealth and prosperity.