JOHN E. HART, is a man who has a reputation in the vicinity in which he lives for a zeal and enthusiasm in whatever he undertakes that usually procures for him the object for which he is working. He is a man in the prime of life with worlds before him to be conquered, and he is ambitious and able, doubtless he will attain whatever he desires, be it in mental, moral, or financial standing.
Our subject comes from strong and able families on both sides of the house. His father was John C. Hart who was born in Morgan County this State. His mother was Martha Bull, who was born in North Carolina. They were married in Morgan County, and there settled. From there they came to Macoupin County and located, about 1844, in North Otter Township, where they died during the War of the Rebellion. They left a family of ten children, of whom our subject is the fourth.
Mr. Hart was born in North Otter Township, February 8, 1855. On the death of his parents he went to live in Morgan County with relatives and remained with them until he reached his majority. He soon after married Miss Sarah M. Cherry, their nuptials being celebrated in North Otter Township, June 1, 1876. Mrs. Hart was a daughter of the late Pleasant Cherry, and was born in North Otter Township. She presented her husband with four children, two dying in infancy. Those living are: Nora A. and Moses A. Mrs. Sarah Hart died February 7, 1883, deeply mourned by her husband and children.
For a second time Mr. Hart united himself in marriage, his choice being Miss Laura Hunt, their wedding taking place in South Otter Township, December 7, 1884. The present wife of our subject was the daughter of Amiel and Mary J. (Battershell) Hunt, who are residents of South Otter Township. Mrs. Hart was born in Pike County, Ill., September 27, 1865. They have three children, whose names are, Bessie L., John W., and Fred D.
When our subject was first married he lived for a short time in North Otter Township and in 1876, settled on the farm where he now lives. He owns two hundred and nineteen acres of good arable land which is in a fine state of cultivation. Good buildings have been erected thereon and the neatness and taste with which they are kept up speak well for their owner. Mr. Hunt is a successful and progressive farmer.
Our subject affiliated with the Democratic party giving them the weight of his vote and influence. He has held several positions of trust in the gift of the county, having been Highway Commissioner and School Trustee.