Parkersburg Dils family

Harrison Dills

 born on the 13 May, 1812 to Tunis and Mary [Cain] Dils. 1812 was an important time in American history as war was declared against Great Britain in June of that year which was considered the second war of independence as GB decided to claim land for themselves. 

Tunison and other family members of the Virginia militia had been dispatched to Blennerhassett Island by President Jefferson in 1806 when it was thought that former Vice President Aaron Burr was wanting to form a new country and plotting with Harman Blennerhassett. Plots to undermine the newly formed, United States of America, had been addressed in those times, but nothing challenged the country like the attacks from the British just a few years later. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Origins_of_the_War_of_1812

However, most American settlers moving west, went about their daily lives building a future for their growing families in the new territories. My parents were married in Parkersburg, [West] Virginia on 14 March, 1811 and went on to have five more sons though Tunis died young and mother passed on in 1826 [buried in Cain cemetary]. It was less than 20 years since Phillip Dilts [who died in Parkersburg in 1810] and his kin settled into the area after selling off land in Pennsylvania. His son, William Dils was my grandfather who willed blacksmith tools in 1811 which I used when I started a blacksmith shop in Quincy, Illinois in 1834. One of my first accounts with a government was to shoe 500 ponies for Blackhawk warriors as retribution for their grievance after a battle against the United States over land.

Widower Tunis and sons, moved to Ohio around 1826 after living with grandmother Ariante Tunison-Dills who likely helped educate the children after mother, Mary Cain Dills died. Other Parkersburg kin were going west across the Little Kenawa River into Ohio and may have stayed with other family. Many of the Dils, Dills kin settled around Athens, Ohio although Tunis returned to Parkersburg before 1840 with family while Henry joined Harrison in Quincy, Il in 1836.  Son William eventually became Sheriff in Parkersburg and Tunis again left Parkersburg for Quincy in the 1840s.   Henry was known as a plasterer around Adams County beside a farmer who eventually settled in Maitland, Mo. in the early 1880s. 

Harrison opened his blacksmith shop in Quincy in 1834 after a brief time in Danville, Ill. and likely used tools that were passed on through grandfather William Dils.  In those days, the west was largely unchanged by human hands and Quincy was teaming with snakes and wildlife when the natives were forced to move on and resettle after the Black Hawk War. 

 

Tunis was an Ensign in the 1st Regiment of the Virginia militia when President Jefferson called on their militia in 1806 when former VP Burr was thought to be planning an insurrection against the government... 
In his reminiscences, Captain Henry Brush described with precision what newly enlisted recruits wore during the War of 1812. Soldiers were outfitted for service in unbleached, tow-linen hunting shirts and trousers. On their heads they wore low-crown hats, on the left side of which were black cockades about two... inches in diameter. A small silver eagle (about the size of a quarter) was fastened in the center of each cockade. Each soldier strapped a leather girdle around his waist, where he carried a tomahawk, a knife, a cartridge box, a bayonet, and a quart-sized tin canteen. He was armed with a musket and shouldered a linen knapsack with a blanket lashed to the top. Both were covered with oilcloth to protect them from wet weather. A soldier’s arms and pack together weighed about thirty-five pounds, and troops travelled an average of twenty-five miles a day on foot. Writing home to his wife, one soldier confessed: “My limbs were so stiff and sore at the end of each day’s march that I could hardly walk.”

In response to complaints from militia officers about their bedraggled troops, Virginia governor James Barbour outlined new uniform requirements in January 1812. General officers, artillery, light artillery, and grenadiers stood out in cockaded hats, white cuffs, and epaulets. Cavalrymen wore distinctive black leather caps dressed on the crown with bearskin and a red and white plume. Riflemen wore purple linen hunting shirts and leather moccasins, while the main body of the militia donned blue hunting shirts festively trimmed with red fringe. Despite the governor’s official proclamation, any soldiers who had provided themselves with uniforms different from those specified in the regulations could wear them for six months, and many probably went to war in the everyday clothing in which they had enlisted.

Virginia soldiers and sailors found themselves in the field as the result of international politics. Through the early decades of the nation’s history, relations between the United States and Great Britain remained strained. The relationship deteriorated sharply with the outbreak of war in Europe in 1803, when Britain imposed a blockade on neutral countries, including the United States. In addition, the British seized sailors from American ships and impressed them into the British navy. In Congress, southern and western War Hawks, such as the new Speaker of the House, Henry Clay, of Kentucky, and Representative John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, led the sentiment for war, calling for defence of American interests and honour. On 1 June 1812, President James Madison asked for a declaration of war. Shortly afterward, Congress approved the declaration (despite the opposition of every Federalist member), and the United States was fighting a war with the motto “Free Trade and Sailors’ Rights.”

In Virginia, the British responded by blockading the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay and raiding coastal settlements. In mid-June 1813, the British attempted to capture Norfolk, but were repulsed by militia stationed on Craney Island. A week later, however, the British captured and sacked the nearby city of Hampton. Although actual encounters were few, the threat of attack kept militia in the field throughout the war, which ended when the Treaty of Ghent was signed on 24 December 1814.

http://www.parkgaz.com/grave.php?grave_id=589 This is a photo of my elder brother William Dils. He spent most of his life in Parkersburg where he served as sheriff and Justice of the Peace. Our father, Tunis, returned to Parkersburg to sell his estate to William and returned to Quincy where Tunis died [1845]. 

William Dils, son of Phillip Dilts, was born in 1764 near Trenton, NJ, and died on August 11, 1811. Spouse, Arianthe Tunison, was the daughter of Tunis Tunison II and Ariantje. "William, son of Philip and Mary Hoffman Dils, was born near Trenton, New Jersey in 1764. He married Arianthe, daughter of Tunis Tunison. William and Arianthe Dils had 12 children.

from: William Dils was my grandfather. He was born in 1764 near Trenton, NJ, and died on August 11, 1811. My grandmother, Arianthe Tunison, was the daughter of Tunis Tunison II and Ariantje. "William, son of Philip and Mary Hoffman Dils, was born near Trenton, New Jersey in 1764. He married Arianthe, daughter of Tunis Tunison. William and Arianthe Dils had 12 children.

Letters to Abraham Lincoln [1849]

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Harrison-Dills-Biography/167097593319779

From Harrison Dills to Abraham Lincoln, April 10, 1849

Quincy Ills April 10th 1849

Honourable Sir

Yours of 4th instalment is at hand in which you acknowledge receipt of letter & recommend for Post Master here. If I had known who was offered and been at home, I should not suffered my name to go there.

 On the 10 of February, I got home when matters had proceeded so far I let them go for what they were worth.

Rogers had gone on 29 of January, and left a boy 16 years age in office who remains there to this hour. Mssr. Browning, Bushnell, and Williams was at Springfield and had recommended Mr Jonas.  If I had known this,  I should not come in collision with Mr. Jonas, but there is still a mystery about this matter yet I cannot solve.

No appointment has been made and the other man that was recommended, I never believed would get the appointment.  A prominent Lawyer informed me this morning that Mr Jonas had been recommended to the Senate and rejected I asked how he knew the Secrets of the U.S. Senate. He said I know and that is enough.  I cannot vouch for this incredible tale and give the source, if I had the most distant idea this was true I would renew my application. 

I say as before I did not work for emolument, but if I could get this place I should apply myself intently to its duties.  I am very grateful for what you done, and should anything turn up that your friend should fail, I should be glad you would render me your Influence. If there is any chance for Mr Jonas' letter me pass, I am told that strong Influence is tried to be brought to bear in favour of a man from another county. We had a trial of it once here in the person of a Mr Clifford from Alton sent by Capt. Tyler who I am sorry to hail from the same state with.

I am Verry Truly

Your Obt Servant

H. Dills


Footnotes:

1 This letter has not been located.

2 ID: Orville H. Browing practiced law in Quincy, Illinois, and was a Whig member, at different times, of both the Senate and House of the Illinois General Assembly. During Lincoln's presidency Browning was a member of the United States Senate, and he was Secretary of the Interior under Andrew Johnson. His friendship with Lincoln was of long standing.

3 ID: Nehemiah Bushnell was Orville Browning's law partner in Quincy, Illinois.

4 ID: Archibald Williams of Quincy, Illinois, was a Whig lawyer and sometime state legislator.

5 Abraham Jonas

6 ID: Locofoco was a somewhat pejorative term used by Whigs and Republicans to identify Democrats, suggesting that on occasion the latter had lit their meetings not with candles or lamps, but with short-burning self-lighting ("locofoco") matches.

From Harrison Dills to Abraham Lincoln, February 19, 1849

Quincy Ills Feby 19th 1849

Honourable Sir

I take the liberty to write you on a matter of local interest. I learn from some friends here that they have made application and forwarded it for me, to be appointed Post master here to fill a vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Mr S. W. Rogers who has gone to California, I understand that the... vacancy will occur on or about the 30th of march. I am desired by my friends here to present the matter to you, and in doing so, If you will aid me in this matter I shall be under lasting obligation to you. I will be permitted to remark, I do not ask it, as meritorious for reward of anything done on my part, I can only say so far as my feeble efforts have been exerted for the last 15 years in Ills for the Whig cause it was done from a sense of duty not for emolument, although if I Shall receive this appointment, it will be great fully received, I also learn from my friends that what has been done, I see that there has not been much concert of action in the matter as part of the papers has been Sent to Hon Truman Smith part to you, and part to the Hon R. W. Thompson & George G. Dunn of Ina. I feel very grateful for the efforts of my friends in this matter, and shall also to you if you will present the matter to the proper department. this office is one made by the President & Senate I Should have written to Col Baker as I learn he will be there before Congress, but I believe he has a friend here, for whom wishes for this office. I wish you would see him. I feel it due to say that there has been a public meeting here on the subject the object of which I learn was to recommend Mr Jonas, a first rate man, but he was rejected by the meeting and a man by the name of L. Prentiss was nominated.  He received 34 Democrats votes & 4 or 5 Whigs is the way it is told, I was not there but the Chairmen of the meeting informed me so and the other part took up another man who received 34 Whigs votes. I suppose this matter is before you there. This, I believe from what I can learn, I am recommended to prevent a Split among us. Supposing it will render more general satisfaction but this I should leave for others. I am Sir Obedient Servant.

Harrison Dills

P. S. I have not seen but one of the Petitions it was headed by Mr Lovejoy and DeHaven Mr A. R. Parker a clerk in the General Land office is a son-in-law of Mr D Haven from whom you can get any Information you may desire, if it will not be asking too much of your please see Him.

H. Dills


Footnotes:

1 Edward D. Baker

2  Abraham Jonas was a prominent Whig lawyer in Quincy, Illinois from Quincy and a friend/colleague of Lincoln. Lincoln at the time was the congressmen representing Adams County and he was later nominated to run for President under the newly formed Republican party. 

Etymology

My ancestor, Harrison Dills, was known as Dils in Parkersburg, western Virginia, until moving west, settling in Quincy, Illinois after a short stay in Danville in 1833. He considered himself "Dutch" American, although part of his line was German. His grandmother, Arianthe Tunison Dils was from one of the early Dutch families to reach the shores of America. His great-grandfather, Philip Dilts, had inherited land in New Jersey before settling in Fayette Co, PA and finally to Wood Co.WVa where he died in 1801. Dilts were also known as Diltz in New Jersey though old records also record "Dilss" as a an early spelling.
The family helped to shape the American experience and this is an ongoing record of bits relating to these pioneering Americans.
 I started my project to do some family research and study the periods for personal info. My grandpa, who visited his grandpa Harrison Dills in Warrensburg, Mo. between 1897-99, spoke with me about his kin in 1978. He wanted me to find out what happened to his father as his parents divorced after his dad "Harry" went off to New Orleans to work. During our conversation, he said that our name was originally Diltz [perhaps in New Jersey] and that his grandfather was a weathy man who owned stock and properties.
My grandfather stayed with his uncle Howell whilst attending art college in Kansas City [1913-16] so he had seen the titles and stock besides antiques that his uncle kept after Harrison was buried [he brought his body back to Quincy, Illinois]. Anyway, my father and grandfather have sinc...e died, though I've managed to reconstruct the Dills family tree over the years speaking to people, while learning about kin on both sides of my family tree.
I was communicating with Hank Jones [actor,researcher] when he was studying the Palatine movement into America and he made the Dilts link into Germany [east of Koln, above Neuwied where some went to Holland and on to New York/New Jersey]. My ancester, Phillip Dilts, lived near Trenton though kin were all over Hunterdon County at the time. I know that some of the Dilts men fought with George Washington when they took over the British emcampment nearby.
When I was staying near Heidelburg on the Neckar River, I visited Dilsberg, Germany a couple of times though didn't learn about the Dils who the mountain was named after. In the 13th century [1208]when Latin was the written language and knights were on the go, they spelled it "Dilighes" though i have a theory that the name might have been connected to a large knive that a tribe of Slavonic people in Prussia carried [the "tilitz"(dilitz) as well as the "stilitz" are recorded in the Grimm Brothers encyc. of middle german words]. I saw a few varieties of messers [large knives with sword handles] in the Palatine museum in Speyer. Anyway, it's an unproven theory but seems to fit better than other theories of how the name came to be.

Many of the sandstone graves that were still visible when the 1930 survey was taken in the Dils Cem. in Parkersburg, WVa. The stones of William and Arianthe [Tunison] Dills are not fully legible though still standing. We know that Tunis Dils's mother Arianthe [who married William in NJ] lived from 1768- 1846 so would have been an influence on Harrison and his siblings. William Dils [son of Phillip and Mary [Hoffman] Dilts] died at 50.He was born in Trenton, NJ in 1761 and died 11 August 1811 in Parkersburg. William and Arianthe had 11 children together.
William and James returned to Parkersburg and brothers Harrison and Henry D Dills started families in Illinois after having lived in Ohio from 1826-33]. Their mother, Mary Cain Dills died in 1824 and buried in the Cain Cem, WVa.
 David Dills William, the first son of Phillip and Mary [Hoffman] Dils was born in 1764 not 1761 [most accounts]. Here are grave survey records of Phillip and Mary: http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=65912246 http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=65925229

 http://www.museum.speyer.de/English/Who_we_are/The_Palatine_Society_for_the_Advancement_of_the_Sciences.htm

Harrison Dills - bits1

These notes are related to Harrison Dills [1812-99] who was raised in Parkersburg, WVa before going west. The family went to Ohio for a short period before Harrison [and Henry D Dills] settled in Quincy, Ill. Father Tunis returned to Parkersburg with younger brother William and Harrison was living in Danville, Ill [1833] before opening his blacksmith business in Quincy [1834].

After reading chapters of ROOTS! in Readers Digest and then seeing the mini-series [1977], I started asking my grandpa [LeRoy Anthony Dills] questions about his family. Besides telling me that the Dills family originally spelled the name, "Diltz" and related a few stories about his dad, Uncle Howell, and his grandpa, Harrison Dills before his death [Nov 1899]. In 1978, after having done basic research from micro-fish at the National Archives [in San Bruno, Ca], I began calling folk who shared our last name in gathering information. Clifford T Dills of Yakima, WA [now deceased] , was a great-grandson of Henry D Dills, brother of Harrison who moved to Fairfax, Mo from Quincy, Illinois. Several of his children eventually settled in Washington where Clifford grew up. He wrote, "My aunt, who's memory is now failing, told me a long time ago that Harrison Dills was living in Quincy, Illinois at the time Henry came to Illinois [1836]. She said that Harrison had been living there running a blacksmith shop. The government had him shoe 500 ponies for the Black Hawk Indians when they were sent to the Indian Territory."
I learned that Harrison opened his blacksmith shop around the beginning of 1834 having moved to Danville, Illinois [he had relocated from Ohio in 1832 though spent his childhood in Parkersburg, WVa where he and siblings were privately educated]. From 1834 to 1880 in Quincy, Illinois, Harrison thrived as one of the leading capitalist of Illinois starting as a blacksmith and inventor to head of the Free Masons though loosing a bid as Senator a few years later. He  was also instrumental in promoting higher education in Quincy, and  raised funds for Chaddock College for the Methodist Church "The institution was organized in the year 1853 under the name of Quincy English and German College. Among the trustees were George Leibrick, John Kinkil, H. Dills, W. D. Dickhut and F. W. Jansen."

His brother, Henry D Dills was a successful builder and mason, [ also born to Tunis and Mary [Cain] Dils in Parkersburg,WVa, died in Fairfax, Mo, though most of his sons settled in Yakima, Washington...
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=95187890

• Harrison Dills

"HARRISON DILLS, superintendent of the Arkansas Valley Fence Company for the manufacture of G Frey's Combination Fence, with or without Barbs; this business was started July 4, 1882, and has many difficulties to contend with, but has steadily been gaining ground. At present, November, 1882, they employ five hands, two machines capable of turning out 160 rods of fence per day, and with the present prospects will have to add another machine. the fence gives general satisfaction, being entirely stock and dog proof; is used largely for sheep corrals, thus perfectly securing sheep from the ravages of dogs and wolves. the fence is gotten up in different styles suitable for parks, yards, ornamental grounds, poultry yards, etc. Mr. Dills was born in Virginia, May 13, 1812, and in 1832 located in Quincy, Ill., where he was engaged in the manufacture of plows, and made the first Diamond Plow ever made in that State. From 1846 to 1848, he was in the employ of the Government in the supply department, furnishing Quartermaster and Commissary stores for the troops during the Mexican war, and in 1861, when the war broke out, went into the Government employ again the same capacity, supplying Commissary and Quartermaster stores wherever they were required. Was at the first battle of Bull Run,. and Belmont, where Gen. Grant fought his first battle; and at Perryville, Ky. Was a delegate to the convention in Baltimore in 1864, that nominated Abraham Lincoln for the presidency the second time, and was Postmaster of Quincy, Ill., in 1866 and 1867, under William L. Dennison, Postmaster General; and in 1882 came West, locating and starting his present business in Newton, Harvey County. Mr. Dills is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which he has belonged since 1837, and is also an ardent Mason with a membership dating back to 1835; he was a member of the convention that formed the first Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois in 1840, and the first elected junior warden of that body and was grand master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois in 1857 and 1858. He has been twice married, first in 1835, and has three children by this marriage -- George A., Howell and Verela K. His first wife dying in 1867, he married Mrs. Francis E. Gooding; they have one son -- Harrison Jr." [second son William was buried in Payton, Ill having died in childhood].   Qlso, first wife Laura Parsons-Dills, died in 1865, shortly before Harrison assumed the role of Postmaster for Adams County. Their infant daughter had died of fever just before Laura and their son John as a young man. Harrison married Francis Electa Gooding in Quincy in 1867 and their new home was built in 1868. Surviving children from first marriage lived in the new home and in Jan 1870, their first son Harrison Francis Dills was born in the house.



The plight of the Mormons [Missouri to Illinois 1838]:

“I saw a great many of the saints, old and young, lying in the mud and water, in a rainstorm, without tent or covering. . . . The sight filled my eyes with tears” (“Wilford Woodruff History, from His Own Pen,” Millennial Star).

The citizens of Quincy had compassion on the beleaguered Saints, especially the suffering women and children, and determined to take them in. The cry for compassion was led by Quincy’s mayor and founder, John Wood. http://www.ldsliving.com/The-Quincy-Miracle-How-One-Town-Saved-Thousands-of-Mormon-Refugees/s/83610 Today, anyone who visits the Mormon Tabernacle and museum in Salt Lake City besides the well organised historical documentation that helps researches locate family records, cannot help being impressed with the accomplishments of the Latter Day Saints especially in light of their journey. In 2015, the Church of The Latter Day Saints dedicated an exhibit in Quincy, Illinois as the City looked after persecuted Mormons fleeing Missouri as they traversed the Mississippi River to find safety in Illinois thanks to the citizens of Quincy https://www.deseretnews.com/article/865665101/Picturing-history-Mormon-history-room-Quincy-Illinois.html

In Missouri, Joseph Smith and the Mormons were treated with disdain and threats which led Smith to state: "Joseph Smith made this hollow threat on October 14th, 1838 in the town square at Far West, Missouri. Had Smith truly been the Prophet upon whom God laid the authority to oversee His people and usher in the last dispensation of time, then he should have been able to manage his affairs more effectively.

But whenever Joseph Smith tried to play hardball, the Gentile majority always threw it back at him, only harder. Consequently, Joseph's highlight reel would have included getting convicted of fraud, being driven out of three states, getting tarred by a mob, breaking out of jail while awaiting a death sentence, and his death in Carthage, Illinois."

Source: William G. Cutler's History of the State of Kansas 1883

The plight of Joseph Smith and his Mormon following illustrates how the sway of public opinion could create havoc for those who didn't fit in with established communities. The attitudes of the leadership of communities could impact the outcome in disputes though treatment of founder Smith for views considered unacceptable to other settlers, was heavy handed and hardship and violence occurred when he was incarcerated and murdered by a mob action. 

 https://famous-trials.com/carthrage https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Joseph_Smith https://www.whig.com/story/15300641/once-upon-a-time-in-quincy-town-provided-refuge-for-persecuted-mormons  

 Though the Mormons led by Joseph Smith were treated with contempt for their beliefs in New York, Ohio, and Missouri, they found a safe haven in Quincy before settling 20 miles north in Nauvoo. Though most of the townspeople lived under Biblical precepts such as "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself", they questioned Mormon authority when wanting to join the Scottish Free Masons fraternity.  In June of 1841, Mormons petitioned Bodley Lodge Masons of Quincy to endorse a lodge in Nauvoo to be headed by Joseph Smith. Bodley Lodge members, including Harrison Dills, rejected their request as they were unknown as Masons having not gone through normal channels being new to the organization. Abraham Jonas of  Columbus Lodge [Columbus, Illinois] who gained favor with Abraham Lincoln, sponsored the new lodge though briefly suspended the new lodge for "irregularities". "The city of Quincy, Illinois, is best known in Mormon history as a point of relocation for Latter-day Saint refugees after their expulsion from Missouri in 1839. The people of Quincy first encountered Mormons when groups of Latter-day Saints passed through the village on their way to Missouri between 1834 and 1838. When Mormons were driven from Missouri in the winter of 1838–1839, thousands of displaced Saints left the state, walking eastward across the frozen Mississippi River and settling temporarily in Quincy. As the weather warmed, others came, using skiffs, canoes, or small boats to cross the river until ferries opened for the season. With the arrival of the Mormon refugees, the population of Quincy swelled from 800 in 1835 to 2,300 in 1840.

The Quincy Democratic Association publicly denounced Missourians for their injustice toward the Saints and pledged to assist Mormon refugees. They gathered donations, arranged housing, and coordinated with other local communities to provide assistance for the impoverished Saints. Eliza R. Snow praised the generosity and charity of the townspeople in her poem “To the Citizens of Quincy,” thanking the “Sons and Daughters of Benevolence” for meeting the “urgent wants of the oppress’d and poor.”¹

During the next year, the majority of the Saints who had stopped in Quincy moved 45 miles upriver to Commerce, Illinois, where they founded the city of Nauvoo. Sadly, in 1845, a committee from Quincy traveled to Nauvoo to demand that the Saints leave the state."https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/quincy-illinois-settlement?lang=eng 

Henry and Harrison Dills were were established members of Quincy, Illinois when the Mormons descended on the small community in need of help. With their Wesleyan Methodist values which compelled them to reject abuse and slavery of African Americans, the small community pulled together to support the Mormons without questioning their belief system. However, in light of problems within the city of Nauvoo to come, a committee from Quincy asked the Mormons to leave the state.

"If the people will let us alone we will preach the gospel in peace. But if they come on to molest us, we will establish our religion by the sword. We will trample down our enemies and make it one gore of blood from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. I will be to this generation a second Mohammed, whose motto in treating for peace was "the Alcoran [Koran] or the Sword." So shall it eventually be with us --" http://www.algonet.se/~daba/lds/masons.htm "Joseph Smith or the Sword!"

Ana

Dutch Dills: Our ancestor, Harrison Dills, raised in Parkersburg, WVa, had a Dutch accent, and likely knew German and Dutch as second languages. His grandmother, Arianthe Tunison Dils [who married William and gave birth to Tunis Dils], was from a prominent Dutch-American family. She is related to the first Dutch child born in America and first mayor of Brooklyn [New Holland]. See attachment from news clipping abt Harrison...

"The post office and various businesses operated from the "Dills Block" which was between 6th and 7th on Maine Street, Quincy, Illinois. A fire in 1874 destroyed most of the properties and Harrison went on to sell that section off a couple years later. He bought more land in Missouri where he eventually retired."

.

January 30, 1874. About 12 o'colock last night discovered the empty two story frame building on Maine street, one door west of Beuhrer's confectionery, to be on fire. Before engines arrival the fire gained fearful headway... A high wind was blowing at the time and sparks and pieces of burning wood were carried a distance of several squares.

January 31, 1874. The fire again broke out in Dills' building, between 1 and tow o'clock yesterdayand steamer No. 1 was immediately sent for to extinguish it.

Harrison Dills was born at Parkersburg, Va., May 13, 1812. He has held position of worshipful master 3 times, and in 1857 was elected grand master. After retirement from that office he was elected grand treasurer which he held for 11 years.

November 3, 1860: "Because it is the only party prominently before the people that proposes to check or ddiscourage the extension of slavery... Because slavery is bad- the "sum of all villainies," as John Wesley termed it- a curse to all concerned in the States where it exists, and will be a curse wherever it may be extended. Because, though we cannot interfere with it where it now exists, we can keep it there, and through the agency of kindness, Christian love, free discussion and education, "in the curse of human events," the slaveholders with themselves abolish the iniquity... Because he is conservative, disbelieves in the wisdom of slavery, is firm in his purposes, firm for the right, will put down corrumption and hang up traitors, and will, in every respect, "perserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. "Hurrah for Old Abe!"

10 April 07:52

"Thirty years ago the citizens of the then modest City of Quincy, commenced the foundation of what has since grown to be one of the strongest and most efficient volunteer fire departments in the Union. At that time most of the solid men of Quincy mustered in No.1 Engine Company, and followed "the machine" when duty called. As a matter of interest, we reproduce a list of the members of this company, when it organized in 1839" [Harrison Dills was listed amonst the 52 volunteers].

Harrison Dills [1812-1899]. Harrison and kin were well respected in Illinois and though he had his start in Parkersburg, Western Va, Quincy is the city who considered HD one of their own though he moved to Kansas in 1882 and died on his farm in Warrensburg, Mo [1899]. The Quincy Whig recorded on June 12, 1890, "A HAPPY REUNION. With pleasure we are permitted the privilege of noting the celebration of the seventy-eight birthday ofMr.Harrison Dills, at his home one mile south of Redfield, in Bourbon county, Kansas, on Tuesday, May 18, 1890. Mr. Dills, a brother and wife, of Maitland, Mo., Mr. D.Lester, a brother-in-law and wife, and Miss Bessie Smiley, a niece, of Plainville, Adams county, Ill., Mrs.J.F. Lyons, of Newton,Kansas, aslo Mr. J.M. Morgan and family, Mr. A. Wagy and wife and Mr. John Whitsett, of Bourbon county, Kansas, making a goodly company of old friends to visit Mr. Dills. How pleasant amid the busy trials of life to stop for a time, at one of the stepping stones, to visit to cheer, and encourage those who are going down the hill of life."

In 1892, as the Dalton Gang was robbing banks and trains in Kansas, Harry [Harrison Francis Dills] was getting hitched to my ggrandma Myrtle Romans. Both families were well thought of though Harry was the subject of gossip especially when he left Kansas to join the Army in 1898. He had worked on the railroad, the Panama Canal, and various types of employment after leaving Redfield for the last time in 1906. Harry who had skills as a carpenter, didn't like settling into farming and paid work was limited in Redfield. He and Mrytle divorced, having spent too much time away from his family and leaving LeRoy to manage the farm. Stories have been told how Harry kept his horse with him even in church and was said to be spoiled by his priviledged upbringing. Whilst much of what is know about Harry is subject to opinion, we know that Harry's second marriage worked out better for him though he lost contact with the children he had with Myrtle. His eldest son LeRoy, in response to letter from Harry asking if he could see him and siblings, wrote back that it would be better if he stayed away. Myrtle felt that he had abandoned the family with his long periods away. Years later, Roy told me that he went looking for his dad to no avail and wished he had know what happened to him.
Military records show that Harry Dills didn't have an easy life health wise. He had contracted malaria during one of his tours and had reoccuring episodes of fever. He became partly blinded in one eye and had to give up his military ambitions taking various jobs as a laborer. I heard from my grandpa Roy that he had worked on a boat towing produce and though I've not seen documents, records show that he spent time in Central America.
I was also able to trace his steps and contact his last child born to his second wife who met with my eldest brother, Richard. Son Don showed him where Harry was buried and passed on a photo of him as an old man sporting a white beard.

Here is the article pertaining to his marriage to Myrtle Romans on June 29, 1892:

Dills-Romans- on Wednesday June 29, 1892
Mr. HF Dills and Miss Myrtle Romans were united in marriage at the home of the bride's parents near Redfiled. Rev. Spahr of the Redfield Methodist Church officiating. The wedding was a noted society event, cards having been previously issued announcing the affair. The wedding took place at high noon. The parlors were beautifully decorated. Over the archway was artistically arranged a semicircle of rare flowers, beneath which werethe initials of the bride and groom. The marriage rite was the solemn and impressive ceremony of the Episcopal church, the wedding ring being placed on the finger of the bride by the groom. The bride was robed in a lovely bridal costum of light tan lansdown trimmed in delicate gold braid with cream Chiffron garniture. The groom was handsomely attired in the conventional black. After congratulations were extended a vocal duet preparied for the occasion was rendered by Mris. Spahr and Miss Belle Morgan, with Miss Ivy Morgan at the organ. After which the bridal pair led the way to the dining room where a wedding dinner of the most delicate viands awaited the guests. On returning to the parlors the guests enjoyed themselves in various ways, music instrumental and vocal being given. The day following, the happy couple were tendered a brilliant reception and elegant dinner at the residence of the grooms parents. Afterwards Mr. and Mris. Dills took the train for Newton,Kansas and other points in the west returning in a short time. They will be at their home south of Redfield to receive their many friends. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Romans one of the most prominet and influenctial families of Bourbon county. She is a young lady of taste and refinement being handsome and accomplished, has made her a general favorite in social circles. The groom is a young man of wealth and culture possesing many friends who congratulate him on his choice.

Besides acknowledgement from various mason groups, the newspapers around Adams County, Illinois reported the passing of HDills. Earlier, I took bits from a few of them, but here is excerpt of one written in context of his Masonic dealings.

Sunday, November 5, 1899. Prominent in Masonry - Late Harrison Dills Closely Identified With Fraternity. The first master of Bodley - last of charter members of this oldest lodge. For years he was Grand Treasurer- assisted in organizing the first Grand Lodge in the State at Jacksonville in 1840 - Funeral today [note: Harrison died in Warrensberg, Mo morning of Nov 3].
His funeral today will be largely attended bt the Masons of Quincy as well as Grand Lodge who will be present. The beautiful and solemn rites of the order will be impressively observed as the remains are consigned to their last earthly resting place in Woodland [cemetary]. During Mr. Dills' residence here he was one of the most highly esteemed citizens, and in public and private affairs he was without a blemish.

11 March 10:59

Harrison married twice in Quincy [Adams Co, Ill] Laura Parson 3 Sep 1835 (until her death in March 1865). He then married widow Francis Electa Gooding [Wilson] 16 Oct 1867. In 1881, after Harrison retired in Quincy, they moved to Harvey County, Kansas where Francis's sisters lived [Redfield]. The only child from this marriage was Harrison Francis Dills "Harry" who was aged 10 when they moved. In 1893, 13 months after Harry married Myrtle Romans, LeRoy Anthony Dills was born in Redfield.

This is a page from Adams Co. census and illustrates how people came from all over in the early stages of Quincy, Illinois on the Mississippi River. Below it, is an obituary showing that Harrison's dad Tunis Dills [Dils] of Parkersburg, WVa died in Quincy 1845.

Thirty two years ago, after gathering census, etc, and contacting individuals named Dills to gain information about Harrison Dills, the library in Quincy, Illinois sent an obituary indicating Tunis Dills of WVa died in 1845 [besides Harrison's first infant daughter]. I had already heard a story about the young Harrison Dills from kin of Henry Dills who followed his brother to Quincy. Anyway, I was fortunate to find Eddie Dils of Parkersburg [through directory assistance] who was able to access family records [preserved since the late 1700's]. Harrison Dills was listed as the eldest son of Tunis Dils, son of William and Aranthe Dils. The family didn't know what happened to that part of the family though assumed they moved west. Later, after grandson Harrison Francis Dills's second wife died, I was able to gain military records plus birth certificates, etc. on the family which led to finding the only living grandson of Harrison Dills of Parkersburg, WVa. There is a new chapter in this study unfolding now...

Search ResultsJournal of the Illinois State Historical Society: Volume 32
Illinois State Historical Society - 1940 - Snippet view
The steel plow had first been invented in 1838 by John Deere, and had proved to be a real boon to the farmer in breaking ... However there could not have been much difference between this shop and that of H. Dills, who on August 1 of ...
Mr. Dills was born in Virginia, May 13, 1812, and in 1832 located in Quincy, Ill., where he was engaged in the manufacture of plows, and made the first Diamond Plow ever made in that State.Peoria land 1855

DILLS, HARRISON IL Peoria 11/1/1855 Quincy 20136 IL4250__.130
DILLS, HARRISON IL Peoria 11/1/1855 Quincy 20137 IL4250__.131 

 

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Tunis Dils was born 1786 in Fayette Co., PA, and died 10 FEB 1845 in Quincy, IL. He was the son of 16. William Dils and 17. Arianthe Tunison.

Harrison Dills, the first master of Bodley, passes away at Warrensburg, Mo... Prominent in Quincy years ago... remains will arrive here this morning [Quincy, Ill. Nov 1999]
"Although he left here, he is still remembered by the older citizens as a prominent factor in the early commercial and political history of Quincy. Mr. Dills was 87 years of age, and had been in feble health for some years past... was prominent in Masonic affairs and first worshipful master of Bodley Lodge No.1 - the Nestor of all Masonic organizations in the State." Three surviving sons Howell [Quincy], George - postmaster in Santa Monica, Ca Soldiers Home, and Harrison Francis in Regular Army of US.
The funeral of the late Harrison Dills: strictly Masonic nature with Bodley lodge No. 1 in charge. Conducted by Most Worshipful Charles F. Hitchcock, grand master of the grand lodge of Illinois, of Chicago. Dills was closely interwoven with the history of Masonry of Illinois. Was one of the organizers of the first grand lodge in Illinois which met in Jacksonville in 1840. He was a past grand master of the Illinois lodge and for years grand treasurer. He was the last remaining charter members of Bodley lodge which is the oldest lodge in Illinois.

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‎"The successful man is the one who does his whole duty in that stage of life to which he has been called... One may be rich and successful, but the world owes the greatest debt to those who, starting in the more humble walks, accomplished great and lasting good for humanity." Helen Bushnell Fogg 1894 - (granddaughter)

Answer to Q: was proud to support America towards the cause of freedom for all though I didn't serve as a soldier. Supplied the Commissaries during the first Mexican War when there was a backlash over the annexation of Texas [1846-48] and again during the Civil War besides serving as recruiter and issuing pay. Sons served in the Civil War and youngest son Harry served in the Spanish-American War circa 1898-9.

I was an active member with the Methodist Episcopal church besides a member of Bodley Lodge [Free Masons] until my death. The church appointed me president of trustees to open a seminary in 1854. I was honored as the Grand Master of Illinois in 1857 and was it's treasurer for 11 years hence.

Parkersburg WVa was known as Newport, Va in the early days when my great grandfather Philip [Dilts] passed away. The Dils Cemetery where he was buried in 1801 is still there and his will [first registered in Wood County] is still intact. My grandfather William died just before I was born [1764-1811] but grandma [Arianthe Tunison Dils] was still around when I was growing up.

Click Illinois and type in Harrison Dills to see land purchased. This led to the developement of "Dills block" which were buildings between 6th and 7th of Maine Street besides personal land and other concerns.

9.	Mary Cain was born 7 JUN 1791 in Wood Co., VA, and died 4 JUL 1824 in Wood Co., VA. She was the daughter of 18. John Cain and 19. Charity Booth.
	Children of Mary Cain and Tunis Dils are: i. Harrison Dills was born 1811 in VA, and died ABT 1900. He married Laura ? BEF 1838. She was born ABT 1814 in NY, and died BEF 1868. He married Frances E. Gooding BEF 1868. She was born 1828 in IL. 4. ii. James Dils was born 31 MAR 1812 in Wood Co., VA, and died 9 MAR 1853 in Wood Co., VA. He married Sophronia Foley 5 JAN 1837 in Wood Co, VA, daughter of Mason Foley and Hannah Phelps. She was born 1813 in Wood Co., VA, and died BET 1893 AND 1902 in Wood Co., WV. iii. Henry D. Dills was born 15 JAN 1816 in VA, and died 14 OCT 1891. He married Eleanor Barker 25 NOV 1841 in IL. He married Elizabeth Thompson 25 NOV 1841. She was born 28 DEC 1824 in Athens Co., OH, and died 15 FEB 1893. iv. William Dils was born 25 DEC 1819 in Wood Co., VA, and died 19 AUG 1884 in Parkersburg, WV. He married Margaret Logan 17 APR 1845 in Wood Co, VA, daughter of Henry Logan and Sarah Skinner. She was born 1824 in VA, and died 7 FEB 1862 in Parkersburg, VA. He married Cora L. Williamson 1874. v. John Dils. He married ? Foley. vi. Tunis Dils. Son-n-law GW Fogg: George W. Fogg, of \\iQ. Military Of der of the Loyal Legion Born at Portland, Maine, June 20, 1837, died in Tacoma, Washington, April 10, 1906. Married at Quincy, Illinois. Oct. 13, 1870, to Kati Varilla Dills. He was educated in the common schools and at Hamden Academy, Hamden, Maine, preparatory to entering Bow- doin College ; but the Civil War coming on, he enlisted as a private in the Seventh Maine Infantry, Co. K, and served in the Army of the Potomac for three years, and re-enlisted and served till the close of the War in the First Maine Veteran Volunteer Infantry, He was promoted at sundry times, being mustered out at the close of the War as First Lieut. He participated in nearly all the great battles between Washington and Richmond, in the campaigns under McClellan and other leaders ; was at the closing scenes under Grant. Upon his return home at the close of the War, 1865, he entered Harvard University Law School, and took his degree. He soon found his way to Quincy. 111. and entered upon the practice of his profession. For a short time he was Commandant of the Soldiers and Sailors Home, at Quincy. Went to Tacoma, 1893. He was elected to membership in the Loyal Legion, through the Commandery of Washington, March 17, 1897 ; Registrar. 1899 ; Senior Vice Commander, 1905. He is survived by his two daughters : Lillian K. and Helen B, Fogg. And two brothers : Edward R. Fogg, of Beatrice, Nebraska, and Charles S. Fogg, Taroma. Bodley Lodge, Quincy, Illinois: BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.  "The following were raised during 1849 : Louis Warner, March 5; Eli  Seehorn, April 5 ; Joseph Campbell, Nov. 26.  Feb. 27, Breth. Luce, Ralston, and Dills were appointed a committee  to confer with Herman Lodge and "the Chapter" relative to the pro-  priety of purchasing a lot and " erecting a building for Lodge uses."  March 19, the Committee on Library, appointed at a previous meeting,  reported, recommending the purchase of "Oliver's Historical Land-  marks," and " Preston's Illustrations," which books the Lodge author-  ized the committee to purchase " when said books can be found." April  16, a resolution to dispense with martial music at funerals was " re-  jected," and a resolution to celebrate St. John's Day was also lost.  May 11, a committee of conference with "the Chapter" and Herman  Lodge, regarding celebration of 24th June, was appointed. May 28, the  Lodge subscribed for ten shares of stock " for the erecting of a Masonic  478 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.  Hall." July 16, the Lodge passed appropriate resolutions in regard to  the death of Samuel H. Davis, and ordered them forwarded to the  Masonic Review for publication. July 23. At this meeting we find  recorded resolutions commemorative of the virtues of Breth. Chapin  Allen, who died on the 17th, and Enoch Conyers, who died on the 21st  July. The record informs us that these brethren were buried on the  18th and 22d July respectively. After passing resolutions of sorrow,  regret, and sympathy, the following "Letter of Condolence" was sent to  the widows of the departed brethren, accompanied with the resolutions :  " Respected Madame, and Friends :  " Bodley Lodge No. 1, of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons, in the beneficent  spirit of the bond of their mystic Order, has charged the undersigned com-  mittee with the responsibilities disclosed in the accompanying resolutions,  which we had the honor to report, and the Lodge unanimously to adopt. The  subject and occasion of this preamble and these resolutions render the duty of  commiseration and condolence, with which we are charged, almost mournfully  pleasant. It is ever a sorrowful spectacle which the winding sheet, the pall, the  hearse, and the grave present; when the great and good have fallen ; when the  fathers are garnered up to their final rest, and the mourners go about the streets.  "But although it is a mournful scene, we are not called upon to mourn as  those who have no hope. It is pleasant to contemplate the profound peace, the  sacred calmness, the awakening slumber, of those who, puttinsr th^ir trust in  God, confidingly commit their bodies to the grave, in the hopf- r f a Missful im-  mortality. And it is indeed sorrowful, yet pleasant, in the midi-t of earth's desola-  tions and death scenes, when the beloved and bereaved objects of the deceased,  while in life the subject of ' every care and each fond caress,' stand around his  narrow house, encircled by the attendant brotherhood whose hearts and hands  attest the sincerity of their sorrow and sympathy, to hear the impressive orison  for the lamented dead, as united they send up the thrice concentrated sympa-  thies of the hearts of the mystic Order, 'our brother is dead; his spirit is gone  to God above; his body we consign to the silent grave.'  " To the bereaved companions of our respective worthy brothers, we can only  add to the expression of our sympathy the promise of cheerful aid. He who  has promised to be a husband to the widow, and a father to the fatherless, who  is our elder brother, and a friend that sticketh closer than a brother, will not  forsake you in this your time of need. The orphan heart may well say,  'Though my father leave me, and my mother forsake me, God has kindly taken  me up.' It is the pride and purpose, as it is the promise, of our ancient Order,  to protect and provide for the widow and orphan, and thus verify the words of  wisdom, ' I have been young, but now am old, yet have I never seen the  righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.'  "We feel assured that the unselfish soul rises above the contracted scenes  and centre of earthly suffering and sorrowing, and may find some solace in the  reflection, that if to the departed,  "'This life was but a torrid day,  Scorched by the wind and sun,  And death is the calm, cool night,  When the weary day is done,' "