JOHN P. BLANE, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Greenview; was born in Menard Co., Ill., July 25, 1845; is a son of George and Mary (Alkire) Blane, both of who were among the first settlers of Menard Co. The father was a native of Ireland, and came to Illinois as early as 1818, and to Sugar Grove, Menard Co., in 1819. He died in 1864. John P. passed his youth and early manhood on his father's farm. He received such an education as the schools of that day afforded. He was united in marriage with Mary A. Bracken, Feb. 7,1867. She was born in Menard Co., Ill., and is a daughter of O.P. Bracken, one of the pioneers of Menard Co. From this union there were four children, three of whom are now living -- Ella M., born Jan. 19, 1871; Carrie M., born May 31, 1875, and Lee E., born March 8, 1877. The name of the one deceased was Emma F., born Dec. 22, 1867, died March 21, 1869. Mr. Blane owns 364 acres of well-improved land; is a Republican in politics and a self made man.