Harrison Druse

Harrison Druse, a well-known farmer residing on section 16, township 3, range 9, Monroe County, claims New York as the state of his nativity. His parents were Stephen and Anna (Denslow) Druse. The former was of French descent and was born in New York. He received such educational advantages as the common schools of his native state afforded. He married Miss Denslow, who was born in Canada, and who was of Welsh lineage. When quite young she removed to New York, where she received but limited school privileges.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Druse were members of the Baptist Church and took an active interest in all that pertained to its upbuilding and to the welfare of the community. By industry, economy and good management he steadily worked his way upward and acquired a comfortable competence. In 1819 he removed with his family to Ohio, locating in Washington County, where his death occurred tow years later. His wife long survived him, passing away in 1845, on the day of General Jackson's death. In the Druse family were ten children, and with one exception all reached mature years. In order of birth they were as follows: Ira, who died in infancy; Jeremiah, Lucy, Sarah, Riley, Stephen, Melissa, Harrison, Warren and Joseph.

It was during his early boyhood that Harrison Druse accompanied the family to the Buckeye State. In the common schools of the neighborhood he conned his lessons through the winter season, while in the summer months he aided in the labors of the farm. No event of special importance occurred during his youth, which was quietly passed in his parents' home. In 1843 was celebrated his marriage with Miss Agnes Cockshot, a native of England, who crossed the Atlantic in 1818 and settled in Belle Prairie, Washington County, Ohio, where she was educated and reared to womanhood. In the same year of their marriage they emigrated to Illinois and took up their residence upon a farm in Monroe County. Six Children came to bless their home and all are yet living, namely: Joseph D., Warren D., Ralph H., Gertie M., Agnes and Ollie. The mother of this family was a sincere and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was a lady of intelligence, highly respected by all who knew her. In 1884 she was called to the home beyond, and her death was deeply mourned.

In his political views, Mr. Druse was a Whig in early life, and when the Republican party was formed he joined its ranks, since which time he has been numbered among its stalward supporters. He has held the office of School Treasurer of this township, and was also County Commissioner for two terms. He discharged his duties in a prompt and faithful manner, and thereby won the commendation of all concerned. Mr. Druse is a self-made man, who started out in life empty handed, but by diligence and good management he has accumulated considerable property and now has six hundred acres of valuable land in Monroe County and a fine home. He is now practically living retired, while his eldest son carries on the farm. He also has one son who is Chief of Police in San Antonio, Tex.