JAMES W. CHRISTOPHER. (Deceased) was born in Ohio, November 16, 1835. He was the son of John and Margaret Christopher, who moved from Ohio to Jersey county, Illinois, about 1842. James was then about seven years of age. He receive his education at the district schools, and remained at home assisting his father until he was about twenty-four years.

March 2, 1859, he was married to Miss C. C. Kuhn, who was the daughter of Christian and Jane Kuhn. Some time after their marriage they settled near Fidelity, in Jersey county, Illinois, and engaged in farming, as a renter for two years; then moved to Sangamon county, living on a farm they had purchased. After living there two years he thought he would better his condition by selling that farm and buying a farm more valuable in Shipman township, Macoupin county, where he moved with his family in 1864, and continued farming and stock raising on an extensive scale. He lived upon his farm until his death. After a short, but painful suffering, he died, December 1st 1877, leaving a wife and eight children to mourn his loss.

Mr. Christopher was a liberal supporter of all moral and useful enterprises, an excellent citizen and kind neighbor. He was frequently called on by his friends to accept many minor offices of the township. He discharged his duty with credit to himself and honor to his neighbors. Of Mr. Christopher's death it can be said that the family lost an affectionate and kind husband, and indulgent father, and the community a good and useful citizen.

Mrs. Christopher and five children remaining on the farm. She is entitled to much credit in the manner in which she has managed the farm, and the efforts she has made to raise her children.