ARCHIBALD BOYD. In the death of such men as the late Archibald Boyd the entire community suffers a loss that is irreparable. The daily life, wherein he displayed the virtues of a true Christian, the long and persevering interest in all that pertains to the mental and spiritual advancement of mankind, and the industrious labors in behalf of his immediate family circle, alike exert an influence over all on-lookers. For almost a quarter of a century this bright example was set before the people of Illiopolis by him whose cognomen introduces these paragraphs, and whose portrait will be noticed on the opposite page.

At Fairfax Courthouse, Va., in November, 1813, the eyes of Archibald Boyd opened to the light of day. In his boyhood he became a resident of Christian County, Ky., and in 1833 came to this State. Here he was engaged in farming until 1850, when he made the overland journey to California and became a miner. His good judgment and steady industry availed to improve his fortunes and in 1852 he returned to the Prairie State with an added store of "filthy lucre." He settled in Macon County, resumed the pursuit of agriculture and in 1860 established the home at Illiopolis that is still occupied by his widow. Worldly success continued to perch upon his banners and at the time of his demise he owned some seven hundred acres of land.

Mr. Boyd was a member of the Masonic order. In politics he was a stanch Republican and during the life of Abraham Lincoln was a warm personal friend of that gentleman. He took a keen delight in the education of the young and all things that pertained thereto, and upon his own children bestowed every possible advantage. He was a member of the Christian Church for over forty years, and during that long period never permitted worldly affairs to interfere with his religious life. The church in its various phases of religious work found a liberal and capable supporter in him.

In 1875 Mr. Boyd was married to Eliza F. Hampton, a representative of one of the early families of the State. Her father, John Hampton, and her grandfather, James Hampton, were well and favorable known in this county, where they lived for many years. Since the death of her husband Mrs. Boyd has purchased the old Hampton homestead, a fine estate of two hundred acres near Mechanicsburg. The family of our subject and his estimable wife consists of six children, all living at home. The husband and father entered into rest October 16, 1884, his death resulting from paralysis.