JAMES WEBSTER, proprietor Wetaug Saw Mills, is a native of Scotland, born June 18, 1830, a son of William and Mary (Peter) Webster, both natives of the same country. The father was a stone-cutter. He died in 1842, aged fifty-two years. The mother died March 8, 1883, aged eighty-four years. The parents were blessed with eight children, seven of whom are living — Jeannette, Elizabeth, James, William, Ann, Mary and Charles. Our subject received but a meager education in his native country. He learned the trade of his father. He came to America in 1852, and for five years was engaged at building bridges, etc., for the Illinois Central Railroad Company, since which he has followed saw-milling. He ran mills above Mound City for about thirteen years, at Oaktown, Ill., nine years, and also at Mill Creek. The Wetaug Mills, of which he is the present proprietor, has a large capacity, and employs several hands. Mr. Webster has been married three times, his first wife being Emma J. Wethington, who died in 1861. By her he had three children, all of whom are deceased. His second marriage occurred June 19, 1863. He wedded Emma Morris, who died in 1877. Two children are living of this marriage — Emma and Mary. He married Ellen Spires November 8, 1879. She was the widow of Charles Spires, and daughter of N. M. Farrin. Mr. Webster is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Mound City Lodge. In politics, he is a Democrat.
Extracted 02 Nov 2014 by Norma Hass from 1883 History of Alexander, Union and Pulaski Counties, Illinois, Part V - Biographical Sketches, page 325.
| Union | Johnson | |
| Alexander |
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Massac McCracken KY |
| Ballard KY |
