The Esmonds have performed their full share toward the development of LaSalle county, and no more loyal citizens have ever dwelt within its boundaries from the time when it lay on the frontier of western civilization until the present day, when it ranks among the finest and most fertile and resourceful counties of the great prairie state.
Cornelius W. Esmond, the father of the subject of this memoir, was one of the first settlers of Utica township and in time became noted as one of its most prosperous agriculturists. For a wife he chose Miss Anna Brown, and they became the parents of seven children.
Thomas Wright Esmond, the second son of the worthy couple mentioned, was born in Utica township, June 4, 1858. His judicious father trained him well in every department of work pertaining to the cultivation and care of a farm, and by the time he had arrived at his majority he was thoroughly competent to undertake the management of a large homestead. He obtained a practical knowledge in the essential branches of an English education in the schools of his home district, and with this as a foundation he has become familiar with wider fields of research and affairs of moment to the world in general. Since his marriage, some fifteen years ago, he has conducted the farm which he now owns. The place is located on both sides of the road, one hundred and sixty acres being situated on section 12, Utica township, and the remainder, ninety-seven acres, in Ottawa township. Large barns afford ample accommodation for the quantities of grain raised each year on the place. A high grade of Norman horses and fine cattle are kept by the progressive proprietor.
In 1884 Thomas W. Esmond and Miss Anna Moore were united in marriage. They have had four children, namely: Oakley W., Roy M., Dale B., and a little daughter, Elva E., who died at the age of five years. Mrs. Esmond's parents, David and Elizabeth (McClure) Moore, were natives of Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and came to this county in 1855, locating in Waltham township.
Mr. Esmond has never sought nor held public office, his preference being for a quiet, domestic life and his time given to his houshold and private affairs. For greater freedom and liberty of action he has remained unidentified with political party organizations, using his vote independently, and in the late presidential campaign he declared for free silver. He possesses the high regard of all who are acquainted with him, and his word is considered to be as good as his bond.
Extracted by Norma Hass from Biographical and Genealogical Record of LaSalle County, Illinois published in 1900, volume 1, pages 362-363.
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