JOHN D. HORTON, one of the progressive and enterprising farmers of Littleton township, was born in Schuyler county, Illinois, September 21, 1845, a son of Lewis and Priscilla (Christman) Horton. His father was a native of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, and there grew to mature years; he drove a stage until 1842, when he made a trip to Illinois, coming via the rivers to La Grange; he settled on the farm now occupied by our subject, purchasing the tract of 160 acres for $350; he erected a log house which was a comfortable home until 1866, when the present structure was built. In 1852 he crossed the plains to California, returning in 1856 by way of New York city; he was accompanied by his son Fred, who afterward went to Texas, where he died. His life was devoted to the pursuit of agriculture; in politics he was a Democrat until 1856 when he cast his suffrage for Lincoln, but he was not actively interested in the movements of the party. His wife died in Schuyler county at the age of eighty-six years; before his death she made a trip to California, visiting a daughter residing there. John D. Horton is one of a family of ten children, four of whom are living. He was first married September 2, 1869, to Miss Mary E. Foster, of Schuyler county, who died July 8, 1870. He was again united in marriage February 17, 1875, to Miss Elizabeth Nichols. She is also a native of this county, born in Littleton township, July 13, 1856, a daughter of Reuben and Elizabeth (Agnew) Nichols. (See sketch of James Agnew).

Mr. and Mrs. Horton are the parents of four children, all of whom are living: Lewis R., born February 24, 1879; Warren, born March 22, 1881; Craig C., born May 14, 1884, and Jessie C., born January 17, 1890. Mr. Horton received his education in the common school at Rushville and remained under the parental roof until his marriage; after this event he settled on the homestead, and has since that time been engaged in agriculture. Politically he is identified with the Republican party; he has represented the people of his township in various local offices, discharging his duties with much ability and admirable fidelity. His wife has been for many years a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They are both people of great stability of character and enjoy the respect of all who know them. Their ancestors for generations have been men and women of brave hearts and undaunted courage, have served in the wars of the country, and have been reliable, industrious and prosperous citizens of the Republic which they aided in founding.