Transcribed by Larry Fearneyhough
Page 100
Scott county, Illinois, has long been an attractive place. From nearly every known country in the world people have come to make their home in the garden spott of Illinois. James Bell, the subject of this sketch, was born in Fortarshire, Scotland, Dec 1, 1856. He came of a long line of farmers on both sides of the house, his ancestors for generations back being identified with that calling in life. He was the eldest of seven children, five of whom are now living in Scotland. In August, 1883, he concluded to cross the waters and try his fortunes in the new world, and upon arriving in this country first settled in Murray County, Minnesota, where he remained for about ten years. He then went to Grand Island, Nebraska, and took charge of the feeding ranch of A.B. Hankey & Co., which position he held for three years. From this place 1200 fatted cattle were turned off each year. He next went to Winona county, Minnesota, took charge of a farm of 600 acres acres and a herd of shorthorn cattle. He was therr for two and a half years when he came to Scott county, Illinois, and took charge of Mr. Grout's valuable herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle, which position he still holds.
In May 1886, he was united in marriage with Miss Johanna Ryan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Ryan of Wabasha county, Minnesota. To them have been born five children, three of whom are still living.
Long before he came to this country Mr. Bell devoted considerable thought to the nature and habits of cattle. Since coming to the United States he has made this particular branch of industry his chosen calling. That he has given to it his best thought and most earnest endeavor is evidenced by the success with which he has met, and to his knowledge, experience and energy in due, in a great measure, the excellent standard of the herds now raised in Scott county.