JAMES BLUE. This very well-known resident of Jacksonville was born in Monroe County, Mo., Dec. 11, 1842, and is the son of Robert and Eliza Blue, who were natives of Kentucky. The mother died in August, 1870, and the father is still living in Missouri. He was born in 1813, and has followed farming the greater part of his life.

The subject of this sketch, when a youth of fourteen years, made his way to Kansas and lived there until 1867. Next he came to Jacksonville, and purchased the two lots where he now lives, and upon which he has put up a neat and tasteful residence, and the other necessary buildings. Like his father before him, he likewise has made agriculture his life occupation. When ready to establish a home of his own he was married to Miss Margaret Richardson, who was born in Kentucky. Their eldest child, Eliza, is the wife of Burl Hitt, and Mary married Charlie Hitt. The next child was John F.; Willie died when a promising youth of eighteen years; Ella, Birdie and James died in infancy. The remaining children are Stella, Robert and Maggie.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Blue are members in good standing of the Baptist Church. Mr. Blue has held the office of Deacon in this church for several years, and has been one of its chief pillars. He has also officiated as Treasurer and Church Trustee. He is an earnest advocate of temperance, and lends his political influence to the Prohibitionists.