History of Lee County, Illinois - Bushnell Historical Society

438 HISTORY OF LEE COUNTY
thousand bushels annually. He has prospered in his undertak-
ing, brooking no obstacles that could be overcome by persistent
and determined effort. He had as the basis for his success a col-
lege education combined with energy and determination, and his
persistency of purpose, his honorable dealing and his ambition
have been salient features in makijig him one of the prosperous
business men of his locality. He owns a fine residence in Ashton
and is also the owner of four hundred and eighty acres of land
in Dakota.
In 1880 Mr. Zeller was united in marriage to Miss Caroline
Foster, who was born in Ohio and is a daughter of Isaac and Eliza-
beth Foster, both of whom were natives of the Buckeye state,
where they spent their entire lives. To JNIr. and Mrs. Zeller were
born live cliildren : Xellie F., who is a graduate of the high school
in Ashton and has also spent some time in studying music;
Samuel P., who is married and lives in Ashton; Clarence A.,
deceased ; Ruth
L., a graduate of the high school ; and Ralph, who
has also passed away.
The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church
and are interested in its work and progress. Mr. Zeller is a
republican and is now .capably serving as assessor of Ashton
township. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend,
and he has done good work as a member of the school board.
Fraternally he is a Mason, belonging to Ashton Lodge, No. 531,
A. F. & A. M. He has taken high degrees in the fraternity and
is now a member of the Mystic Shrine. He is also well known
as a member of Ashton Lodge, No. 977, I. O. O. F., in which he
has filled all of the chairs. He is ever loyal to the teachings of
these organizations, which are based upon the principle of mutual
helpfulness and kindliness with a recognition of the brotherhood
of mankind.
P. E. GATES.
P. E. Gates is a retired farmer residing at Paw Paw. He
found in his business interests as an agriculturist the opportu-
nity for the attainment of success, and making wise use of his time,
he eventually gained the competence that now supplies him with all
of the comforts of life. He resides in Paw Paw and has been a