Biography - Samuel Lee
SAMUEL LEE. In mentioning those of foreign birth who have become closely associated with the business interests of Montgomery County, Ill., we should not fail to present an outline of the career of Mr. Lee, for he is one who has fully borne out the reputation of that class of industrious, energetic and farseeing men of English nativity who have risen to prominence in different portions of this country. Mr. Lee is at present the leading merchant of Witt, Ill., and in all the business relations of life he has acquitted himself with credit and honor. Personally, Mr. Lee is held in the highest esteem, is a man of sterling integrity, and is honored alike for his business and social standing. He keeps a choice stock of goods, is prompt and reliable, and has a large and increasing trade. Although young in years, he has already won an enviable reputation as a business man.
Mr. Lee was born in Somersetshire, England, in November, 1856, and is a son of Charles Lee, who followed agricultural pursuits in England for many years. The elder Mr. Lee, thinking to better his condition in every way, immigrated to the United States in 1871, and made his way toward the Sucker State, settling on a farm in Macoupin County. He was a man possessed of much energy and ambition, and was fairly successful as an agriculturist. Our subject was but fifteen years of age when he crossed the ocean to America, and he grew to mature years on the farm in Macoupin County, receiving but a limited education in the common schools. However, he possessed an unusually good head for business, and a vast amount of energy, perseverance and industry, all of which have contributed very materially to his success. He assisted his father in cultivating the farm until he had reached mature years, and in 1882 came to Montgomery County, where he was engaged in tilling the soil until 1887. At this date he opened a general store in Witt, and here he has since been engaged in a very successful business. His father also removed to Montgomery County in 1882, and is now residing on his farm about two miles from the town.
Our subject was united in marriage with Miss Delia Balsley, a daughter of a prominent farmer of Nokomis Township, and a native of the Prairie State. She is a lady of much refinement and highly esteemed for her many womanly virtues. One child has come to brighten their pleasant home, Burrell, a bright boy, born in the spring of 1892. In addition to his fine stock of goods, Mr. Lee is also the owner of his store building and a good residence in Witt. He is one of the public-spirited men of the town, is active in his support of all enterprises tending toward the improvement and development of the county, gives liberally of his means to all churches and schools, and is one of the foremost men. In political matters, he is identified with the Democratic party, but takes no part in politics, and has never held an office.
Extracted 04 Dec 2016 by Norma Hass from 1892 Portrait and Biographical Record of Montgomery and Bond Counties, Illinois, pages 218-221.
