JOHN Q. SPEARS, merchant and farmer; P.O. Tallula; son of George and Maria W. (Blankenship) Spears, pioneers of this county; born Nov. 28, 1828, upon the old homestead where his father now lives; his early life was that of a farmer's son; he attended the common schools, and, late in life, through observation and experience, acquired a good business education; he has made this his home and followed agricultural pursuits thus far through life; when he began in life for himself, his father gave him a farm, and he has added to this until, to-day, he is considered one of the solid men of Menard Co.; he owns 1,176 acres, and much other property; he is a man of public spirit and benevolence. He has twice married - first, to Miss Susan J., daughter of Jacob Merrill, May 2, 1854; she died Dec. 16, 1873, leaving three children - William H., born June 20, 1859; James J., Feb. 27, 1861, and Charles G. July 6, 1869; Mr. Spears married his present wife, Martha R., daughter of John L and Mary L. (Hawks) Turner, of Mason Co., Dec. 2, 1875; she was born Oct. 16, 1837. Mr. Spears is now engaged in mercantile and grain business, and in this, also is quite successful.