J. M. SAWYER, station agent for the C. & A. R. R. Co., Petersburg; son of Josiah and Harriet R. (Bates) Sawyer; was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., April 28, 1846, where he spent his early life, growing up on a farm, and receiving a good business education. During the late war, he enlisted with the 4th Mass. Cal., and served some twenty-two months, and was honorably discharged; he then returned to Tazewell Co., Ill., and learned telegraphing. He came to Petersburg in 1867, and engaged with the Jackson branch of the C. & A. R. R. as station agent and operator; this position he has since held with satisfaction to all concerned. He married Miss Elizabeth M. Walker, of this place, May 1, 1870. They have two children - Harriet C. and Angeline M.