HON. JOHN BENNETT, retired, Petersburg; son of Richard E. and Ann (Carter) Bennett; they were of Scotch-Irish origin; he was born in Halifax Co., Va., Dec. 21, 1805. He passed his boyhood and early manhood at the old homestead in Virginia, receiving such an education as the common schools of that period afforded. At the age of 14, he entered his father's store as clerk, in which capacity he continued till the death of his father in 1828. After settling up the estate, he continued in business on his own account until 1835, when he removed to Sangamon Co., Ill., settling near Rochester. He remained there until 1836, when he came t Petersburg and opened a dry-goods store in the then small village. Here Mr. Bennett continued very successfully in merchandise till 1858, when, having amassed a handsome property he resided the cares of active life to enjoy in his beautiful home (which is one of the most finely located residences in Petersburg) that peace and quiet which his early life of activity had well earned. During the winter of 1840-1841, he represented Menard Co. in the state Legislature. He was one of the original Directors of the Tonica & R.; this position he held for four years. In Freemasonry, Mr. Bennett is prominently known in the State, and he has been conspicuous for his devotion to the Order and his zealous practice of its tenets. For upward of forty years he has been intimately connected with the interests of Menard Co., in both private and public life, and now, at the ripe age of 74, he enjoys the result of a well-spent life. He has twice married; first to Miss Mary A. Boys, Dec. 1, 1829; she died May 12, 1849, leaving four children. Mr. Bennett married his present wife Sept. 10, 1850; she was Miss Mary J. Cabaniss. They are well known and highly respected.