E. W. FENITY, M.D. - Dr. E. W. Fenity, who in the practice of medicine and surgery has given evidence of ability that well entitles him to the extensive patronage which he now receives, was born in Kane, Greene county, in March 1861, his parents being Dr. Peter and Helen (Cory) Fenity, who are represented elsewhere in this volume. Our subject acquired his early education in the public schools of his native town, pursued a preparatory course in Shurtleff college at Upper Alton, Illinois, and subsequently matriculated in Knox College at Galesburg, Illinois, where he pursued a three years' course of study. He then entered the medical department of the Northwestern University at Chicago, and was graduated with the class of 1885. Whether early environment, inherited tendencies or natural predilection had most to do with influencing him in his choice of a life work it is impossible to determine, but it is an incontrovertible fact that Dr. Fenity chose a calling for which he is well fitted. He was president and valedictorian of his class in the university and after careful preparation he returned to Greene county, opening an office at Rockbridge, where he remained for about eighteen months. He then removed to Fayette, where he continued in practice for three years. In the spring of 1890, following his father's death, he located in Kane to take charge of his father's practice and has since made his home in this place, enjoying an extensive and lucrative patronage. He is a genial practitioner, having a broad and comprehensive knowledge of the science of medicine. During the summer of 1884 he served for a term of six months in the United States Marine Hospital at St. Louis - a most valuable experience for a young physician, as he frequently had charge of the institution during that time. Reading and investigation have continually broadened his knowledge and increased his efficiency, and the profession as well as the public acknowledge his ability and accord him a prominent place in the ranks of the most skilled and successful members of the medical fraternity in Greene county.

In March 1887, Dr. Fenity was married to Miss Alice Williams, a native of Rockbridge, Illinois, and a daughter of Louis F. Williams, one of the prominent and respected pioneer citizens of Greene county. Five children grace this marriage: Carl L., Earl C., May, Nettie and Paul.

While in Shurtleff College Dr. Fenity became a member of the Alpha Zeta and belonged to the Gnothantii at Knox College. He was the winner of a prize offered by the Women's Christian Temperance Union for the best essay upon the effect of alcohol on the human system. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and has been prominent in community affairs in Greene county. He served as a member of the village board of Kane for seven consecutive years and was secretary of the Democratic central committee for two years. Dr. Fenity has a wide acquaintance in the county where his entire life has been passed and where he has so directed his efforts as to gain recognition as a successful physician and leading citizen.