WILLIAM M. PIPER who resides on section 16, Carlin Precinct, Calhoun County, has for a number of years been one of the successful teachers of the county. He also devotes himself to farming and in both branches of his business has prospered. His entire life has been passed in Calhoun County. He was born on the 29th of December, 1853, on his father's farm, his parents being Israel and Rachel (Beeman) Piper, both of whom were natives of this State and were representatives of its pioneer families. They were early settlers of Calhoun County, and the father devoted himself to farming in this community until the breaking out of the late war when, believing it his duty to aid his country in her struggle to preserve the Union, he enlisted and was killed in the siege of Vicksburg. Mrs. Piper afterward again married, becoming the wife of Thomas Nelson.
The early life of our subject passed uneventfully. In the common schools of the neighborhood he acquired his primary education and at the age of twenty years he entered Blackburn University of Carlinville, Ill., where he pursued a two terms course. Studious by nature, he easily mastered the lessons assigned to him and on leaving the school room sought and obtained a position as teacher, which profession he has followed for ten terms. It is said that there is a pursuit adapted to the abilities of every person and if they engage in that work they will meet with success. Granting this to be true we would say that Mr. Piper has found a vocation suited to him for he has certainly succeeded in his chosen profession, winning high encomiums from those who have employed him or know aught of his methods. He wins the respect of scholars and directors and in the faithful discharge of his duties has made many friends. He also devotes some attention to farming and in that line of business has met with prosperity.
On November 20, 1877, Mr. Piper was united in the holy bonds of matrimony with Miss Appelina Cook, daughter of Joseph and Eliza Cook. Her father is now deceased, but her mother is still a resident of Calhoun County. By their union have been born six children and the family circle yet remains unbroken. In order of birth they are as follows: Nina A., Edgar A., Cyril A., Bertie, Guy and Alma M.
The farm in Carlin Precinct where Mr. Piper now resides has been his home since 1878. It comprises one hundred and twenty-two acres of land and the neat appearance of the place with its well cultivated fields and well-kept buildings, plainly indicates the thrift and enterprise of the owner. He is a Democrat in politics and is now serving his third term as Justice of the Peace. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian Church and are faithful workers in the Master's vineyard.
Extracted 23 Mar 2017 by Norma Hass from Portrait and Biographical Album of Pike and Calhoun Counties, Illinois, published in 1891, pages 748
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