Biography - Robert Nelson
Robert S. NELSON, grain and produce dealer, Harvel, was born near Brighton, Macoupin Co., Ill., March 9, 1837, to Robert S. and E. (KELSEY) NELSON. He was a native of New Hampshire, and was one of the early settlers of Macoupin County, having settled there long before a railroad intersected that part of the State. His death occurred in 1857. She was also a native of New Hampshire. Her death occurred in 1857. She was the mother of six children, of whom Robert S., our subject, was the youngest child. He spent his boyhood days in assisting his father in farming, and receiving such an education as the common schools of the neighborhood afforded. His first enterprise for himself was at Irving, Ill., where he entered upon his business career in the grain and agricultural business. He remained there two years, and then sold his interest to William CHAMBERLIN and removed to Litchfield, where he engaged in the same business, but remained only one year, when he removed to Harvel and erected a large grain elevator, and continued as a grain and produce dealer. His business, although large at the start, has been steadily increasing until now it has assumed very large proportions, and his custom extends far into Montgomery and Christian Counties. In 1879, he entered into partnership in the agricultural implement business with Mr. C. H. ADAMS, which he continues in connection with his other business. Mr. NELSON was married in Litchfield, Ill., April 4, 1872, to Miss Harriet A. JONES, who was born in Carrollton, Greene Co., Ill., May 23, 1850. They have but one child, R. S. Kent NELSON. Mr. NELSON in social life is one of the most genial of men, liberal in his views, and gentlemanly in his social relations. As a citizen, he is enterprising and public-spirited, and has ever taken a leading part in all matters calculated to advance the material interests of his town and county.
Extracted 20 Nov 2016 by Norma Hass from 1882 History of Bond and Montgomery Counties, Illinois, Part 2 Biographical Department, page 249.
