EDWIN POFFENBERGER. - Edwin Poffenberger, known as a prosperous representative of agricultural interests in Sangamon county, was born in Rochester township, in 1857, and is descended from Maryland ancestry. His paternal grandfather, Christian Poffenberger, was born in Washington county, Maryland, and it was there that the birth of George W. Poffenberger, the father, occurred on the 16th of October, 1817. On leaving his native state he came to Illinois, settling upon a tract of land in Rochester township, Sangamon county. The year of his arrival was 1839 and the place of his location was Round Prairie. The old homestead is now occupied by his son John. There the father devoted his energies to the tilling of the soil and in course of time developed a splendid property, upon which he made his home until his death, which occurred in July, 1889. In early manhood he had wedded Miss Rachel Jane Jones, who was born in Bath county, Kentucky, September 8, 1814, and died in March, 1885.
Edwin Poffenberger was educated in what is known as the Poffenberger school in Rochester township, pursuing his studies through the winter terms while in the summer months he assisted in the varied duties of the farm. He aided in the plowing, planting and harvesting and thus gained the practical experience and knowledge which has enabled him to successfully carry on business for himself since attaining his majority. He has always engaged in general farming.
Mr. Poffenberger was married in Rochester, November 22, 1888, to Miss Mary McCoy, a daughter of M. D. McCoy, who is mentioned elsewhere in this work. Her sister, Mrs. Jennie St. Clair, died May 21, 1904, at Chicago, and was buried in Rochester cemetery. Mrs. Poffenberger was born in Rochester township and is well known in this part of the county. Mr. Poffenberger is a member of the Court of Honor of Rochester, and both he and his wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal church there. Having spent their entire lives in this locality they have a wide acquaintance and have gained favorable regard and good will from all.