George M. Killam

From: Portrait and Biographical Record of Macoupin County, Illinois; pub. Biographical Pub. Co, 1891; p. 386

          George M. Killam. This section of country has always proved very attractive to citizens of foreign birth, who have come to America with a desire to give their children the benefits of a home in the land of liberty and an opportunity for independence.  The fertility of Illinois was early made a matter of comment and conversation among the yeomanry of England, and their attention was called to the advantages which were offered here.  In consequence of this many of them emigrated to this country and among them we find Samuel Killam, the father of our subject.  His wife bore the maiden name of Mary M. Morris.  They were married in England and coming to America, made their first home in Morgan County.

          This worthy and intelligent couple finally removed to Macoupin County and settled in South Palmyra Township, where they ended their days in peace and happiness.  Ten children had gathered about their home, of whom our subject was the seventh.  He was born in South Palmyra Township August 28, 1840.  Here he grew to manhood and has always remained a resident of this county.  He remained at home most of the time till his marriage, after which he lived for two years in Carlinville Township and then settled in Bird Township, where he owns two hundred and nine acres.  He has erected good buildings on his farm, which is finely improved.  He has always been engaged in stock-raising and agricultural pursuits.

          The marriage of Mr. Killam with Emily Baker took place on March 15, 1866, in South Otter Township.  The lady whom he made his wife was a daughter of Robert Baker, of South Otter Township.  They set up their home in Carlinville Township and four children crowned their union: Mary F., George A., Charles W. and Emily J.  The mother of these children was snatched from the companionship of her husband and children August 23, 1878.

          The second marriage of this gentleman took place in St. Louis, Mo., on April 22, 1880.  His bride was Miss Rosalie, a daughter of William and Rachel Standiford.  Mr. Standiford was a soldier in the Civil War and met his death while in the service.  His wife has also passed to the other world.  Their daughter Rosalie was born in Franklin County, Mo. June 20, 1855.  She has become the mother of three children, namely: John A., Samuel C., and Nellie R.

          Mr. Killam is an earnest and efficient member of the Republican party and his advocacy of his political principles is intelligent and convincing.  He is a man of influence in the community and has held a number of township offices in the county.  His farm is in excellent condition and the buildings upon it are worthy of note.  His estimable wife is a devoted and member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which she find a broad field of usefulness.

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