McDonough ILGenWeb

STINSON, William J., a leading druggist of Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Philadelphia, Pa., February 28, 1854. His father and mother, Robert and Rebecca (Baird) Stinson, were natives of Ireland and Scotland, respectively, the former having been born in County Tyrone. His maternal grandfather, Matthew Baird, was a Scotchman. William J. Stinson is the youngest of twelve children, of whom six are now living. In childhood he attended the public school, and when twelve years old came to live with his sister, Mrs. George D. Keefer, at Macomb, and went to work in the drug store of George D. Keefer and Brother, remaining until 1874, when, for two years, he attended the Philadelphia School of Pharmacy. Returning to Macomb he again went to work for Keefer Brothers where he continued until 1883. In that year he entered into partnership with L. N. Rost in the drug business, handling also paints and oils. In 1886 he purchased the interest of Mr. Rost, and conducted the business next door to where he is now located until 1891, when he occupied his present store. Mr. Stinson's business qualifications are conceded to be of a superior order, and he commands the confidence of the community as a thoroughly competent pharmacist.

The subject of this sketch was married in September, 1885, to Lydia Rhinechild, a native of Pomeroy, Ohio, where she received her early education in the public school. Three children resulted from their union: Ethel Margaret, who died at the age of seven years; Lavina S., and Dorothy. In his political views, Mr. Stinson is in harmony with the principles of the Democratic party. His religious connection is with the Presbyterian Church.

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Source: The Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of McDonough County, compiled by Dr. Newton Bateman, and Paul Shelby, 1907, volume 2, page 1010, extracted 30 Jul 2020 by Norma Hass.