SOLOMON JOINER, one of the influential farmers and stock-raisers of Bird Township, is a son of Thomas and Martha A. (Pulliam) Joiner. The father, who died in 1883 is mentioned prominently in the sketch of his wife which will be found in another part of this book. His widow still survives and is one of the representative women of the township. Of a family of eight children, our subject is the second in order of birth, and he was born in what is now North Palmyra Township, July 5, 1849.
The subject of this sketch grew to manhood on his father's farm in Macoupin County, and made his home with his parents until his marriage, which momentous and interesting event took place in Bird Township, November 14, 1872. The lady who became his wife was Mary E., daughter of Joseph M. and Lucinda (Burford) VanArsdale. Mrs. VanArsdale died in South Palmyra Township. She was the happy mother of twelve children, of whom her daughter Mary, the wife of our subject, was the tenth, and she was born in Macoupin County, July 16, 1854.
After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Joiner they decided to make their home in Bird Township, and have since resided upon their fine farm. They have one hundred and fifty acres of rich and productive soil, and upon it are located excellent buildings and all other improvements necessary to mark it as the property of an enterprising and thorough farmer. Seven children were born to Mr. Joiner and his estimable wife as follows: Thomas M., deceased, Martha L., Joseph E., Loretta E., Gertrude A., Effie E., and George R. Mrs. Joiner is an earnest and devoted member of the Baptist Church, in the belief and practice of which she is faithfully bringing up her children. Our subject is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He has been School Director and is ever active in promoting the interests of the district school. Aside from the interest in these matters he devotes himself entirely to agricultural pursuits, where his persistent industry and good judgment are crowning his efforts with success.
The attention of the reader is invited to the lithographic portrait of Mr. Joiner which is presented in connection with this sketch.