F. V. BALE, miller, Petersburg; son of Abraham and Mary (Lewis) Bale; was born in Green Co., Ky. Jan. 1, 1833. His parents came from Green Co., Ky., in 1839, locating in Salem, and in 1840 his father bought a farm, which they operated until 1852, when they bought the old mill site at Salem and began to repair the mill; but in 1853, his father died, after which he, with two brothers, finished repairing it and putting it into operation. In 1873, F. V. became sole proprietor and has since operated it. The historical facts connected with this mill will be further alluded to in the history of Menard Co. The subject of this sketch was married to Miss Elizabeth J. Leving, of Logan Co., Ill., Oct. 9, 1859; she was born in Virginia. They have had children, but two of whom are now living.