The subject of this review is one of the popular and well-known citizens of Brookfield township, LaSalle county. His entire life has been spent in this locality, for he is one of LaSalle county's native sons. His birth occurred in 1866, his parents being Thomas E. and Ellen Welsh, both of whom were natives of Ireland. The father was a farmer by occupation, and in 1849 became a resident of this county, making his home here until his death, which occurred in 1887. He had a family of four sons and four daughters, namely: Edward, who died in 1885, at the age of twenty-four; Dennis, of Verona, Illinois; Mrs. Dennis O'Donnell, who resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Mrs. William Coughlin, of Brookfield township; Thomas, Ella and Mary, of Seneca, Illinois; and M. J., the subject of this review.
Mr. Welsh, whose name heads this article, was reared in LaSalle county, and early became familiar with all the duties and labors of the agriculturist. He attended the public schools and later was a student in the college at Valparaiso, Indiana. At the age of eighteen years he began teaching school and successfully followed that profession for ten years, his services giving excellent satisfaction in the schools where he was employed. Since that time he has devoted his energies uninterruptedly to his farming interests. He owns, occupies and operates two hundred and forty acres of land, which is under a high state of cultivation, the well-tilled fields yielding to the owner a golden tribute in return for the care and labor he bestows upon them. He follows progressive methods in his farming operations, is practical and enterprising, and has one of the best-improved farms in his township.
Mr. Welsh has been twice married. On the 4th of October, 1894, he wedded Miss Maggie McCormick, of Seneca, a lady of intelligence and natural refinement, but in less than a year they were separated by death, Mrs. Welsh being called to her final rest July 10, 1895. On the 27th of February, 1897, Mr. Welsh was united in marriage to Miss Nellie Sheedy, of Brookfield township, and they now have an interesting little son, Joseph Russell.
In his political affiliations Mr. Welsh is a Democrat, and is now serving his sixth year as supervisor. He was also the town clerk for a number of years, and his retention in public office plainly indicates the fidelity with which he discharges his duties. Socially he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America.]Mr. Welsh is a gentleman of enterprise, of frank and genial manner, and is very popular, his commendable qualities winning him favor with all with whom he comes in contact.
Extracted by Norma Hass from Biographical and Genealogical Record of LaSalle County, Illinois published in 1900, volume 1, pages 244-245.
| Lee | DeKalb | Kane |
| Bureau |
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Kendall |
| Putnam | Grundy | |
| Marshall | Woodford | Livingston |
