STEPHEN BULL

The elements of a nation's greatness are the growth of her industries and the development of her natural resources. These produce individual wealth and the aggregate of the wealth of individuals constitute the wealth of the nation. Those who have taken an active and successful part in these important branches of human progress rank among the eminent men of the land, as they have contributed to both the wealth of the country and also to its renown. Stephen BULL of Racine, has been an active worker and is now a partner in an important manufacturing concern, perhaps the greatest of its kind in the world, and hence is entitled to a place among the great men of the West.

Stephen BULL was born in Cayuga County, New York, March 1822; son of Degrove and Amanda M. BULL, respectable farmers. Stephen received his early education as is usual in country places, by attending school in winter and doing at all times what he could to help his parents on the farm. He left home when he was thirteen years old and worked on a farm until he was seventeen; he then went to New York City and engaged as clerk in a grocery store, where he remained two years, when he concluded to go west. In October 1845, he arrived at Racine, Wisconsin, where he remained two years, and then moved to Spring Prairie, Walworth County and engaged in the mercantile business, where he remained two years. In 1858 he sold out and entered the threshing machine manufactory of J. I. Case, of Racine and in 1863 became a partner in the extensive and well known concern. This business is so extensive that it requires all the time and attention of those interested. They have not only an American demand but have furnished machines in Europe and Asia. Mr. BULL is a thorough businessman and is indefatigable in his labors.

In 1849 he married Miss Ellen KELLOGG and has a family of six children, four daughters and 3 sons. Mr. BULL is a member of the Universal Church and in politics has belonged to the Republican party since its organization.

Mr. BULL owns a farm within the city limits which he raised some very fine blooded horses. He is the owner of the celebrated horse ___(can't read) Sheridan, which has a record of two-thirty. Mr. BULL is a man of great public spirit; is a director of the First National Bank of Burlington, and of fine social qualities. He is always ready to give a helping hand where help is needed. He is highly respected and one whom the city could ill afford to lose.

One of Mr. BULL's sons, Frank K. became president of J. I. Case. His grandson Steven BULL was one time assistant secretary of the company, and is widely known as a polo player. He died in California in 1961 at the age of seventy-nine.

- Carol Holmbeck