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John B. McQuillan |
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John B. McQuillan is the junior member of the firm of Mudd & McQuillan, dealers in general merchandise at Red Bud. He was born on the old McQuillan homestead in Monroe County, January 21, 1851, and is a son of John McQuillan, Sr., whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. He was reared upon the old farm and early began work in the fields. His primary education was acquired in the district schools of the neighborhood, and was completed by study in the Mound City Commercial College of St. Louis. Having arrived at years of maturity, Mr. McQuillan was united in marriage with Miss R. J. Dinan, daughter of Timothy Dinan, one of the early settlers of Monroe County. The lady was born and reared in this county, and the marriage of the young couple was celebrated in 1879. They began their domestic life upon a farm and there lived for a number of years, Mr. McQuillan devoting his time and attention to the cultivation of his land. Three children came to bless their union, John, Walter and Gus. In 1888, Mr. McQuillan left the farm and came to Red Bud, forming a partnership with W. T. Mudd, which still exists. For the past six years they have carried on general merchandising, and now have a fine store at the southwest corner of Main and Market Streets. They began operations on a small scale, but their trade has constantly increased and they now have one of the largest stores in the place. They carry a fine line of goods, and by fair and honest dealing, earnest endeavors to please their customers and by courteous treatment they have secured a very liberal patronage. The members of the firm are both men of good business ability, enterprising and energetic, and their success is well deserved. Besides his store Mr. McQuillan owns a valuable farm comprising two hundred and eighty acres of rich land in Prairie du Long Township, Monroe County. This tract is under a high state of cultivation and is well improved with all the accessories and conveniences which go to make up a model farm. In his political affiliations, Mr. McQuillan is a Republican and is a stanch advocate of party principles. He has served as School Director of his township, but has never been an office seeker, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests. He belongs to the Catholic Knights of Illinois, of which he is now Treasurer. He and his family are all members of the Roman Catholic Church. Their home is one of the fine residences of Red Bud, and is the abode of hospitality and good cheer.
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