The parents of our subject were natives of Delaware, whence they removed in their youth, prior to their marriage, to Kentucky. After uniting their hearts and fortunes they settled in Scott County, that State, and lived there until their removal to Illinois, in the fall of 1834. The father secured a tract of land, and, with the aid of his son, built up a comfortable homestead, where both parents spent their last days. Their household consisted of six children. James, our subject, was born in Scott County, Ky., Aug. 14, 1818, and there received the most of his education in the common school. He grew up a dutiful son and an industrious youth, following in the footsteps of his honored father, and being mostly engaged in farming pursuits. The old homestead is now occupied by himself and younger sister, Nancy, and our subject secured his farm in 1875. He has erected a neat and commodious dwelling, and his barn and other outbuildings are well adapted to the purposes of general agriculture. There is no fault bo be found, whatever, with his career as a man and a citizen, excepting the fact that he had never thought best to take unto himself a wife and helpmate. His domestic affairs are presided over by his sister Nancy.

Politically, Mr. Porter affiliates with the Republican party, and he has been for many years a member in good standing of the Christian Church. No man has watched with warmer interest the growth and development of his adopted county, and he has contributed his full quota in bringing it to its present condition.