JOHN SPENCER was born in Greene county, Ill., April 17, 1837, his parents being William and Parthenia (Tatten) Spencer, natives of Indiana. His parents came to Greene county at an early day, and were among the pioneers. His father entered 40 acres of land on section 14, and also entered land at other places. He remained in Greene county until 1845, when he removed to Morgan county, where he died, Jan. 24, 1885. His mother is yet living, at the advanced age of 80 years, and resides in Morgan county. Our subject was brought up on a farm, remaining at home until 17 years of age, when he started in life for himself, he and his brother, Elisha, renting a farm together, on which they lived and farmed about four years. He and his two brothers then bought a threshing machine, which they ran for several years, and also had ox teams and broke rough ground. After he was married, he and his elder brother, Jonas, bought 60 acres of land in Morgan county, and moved on to it, living there four years, when he sold out and bought 170 acres of land, his present homestead, on Secs. 11 and 14, T. 12, R. 11, and moved upon it, where he has since resided. In 1869, he built a large, two-story frame house, at a cost of $1,500, and also made other costly improvements. He was married March 10, 1858, to Margaret A. Baines, daughter of Solomon and Caroline S. Baines. They are the parents of 11 children, eight of whom are living - Franklin P., married to Ella Keller, resides in Morgan County; Mary J., Debbie A., Charlotte, Nancy E., Jennie, Frederick L. and Norman R. The ones deceased are - George S., Alvin E., and one who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Spencer and four daughters are members of the M. E. church. Mr. Spencer now owns 340 acres of land. He has held the office of township treasurer, and several other offices, and is a highly esteemed citizen of this community.