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ROBERT CRAIG , a practical and enterprising farmer residing on section 34, Rochester Township, is of Scotch birth, and the third child in a family of nine children, whose parents, William and Mary (McLaughlin) Craig, were also natives of Scotland, the former born in the city of Glasgow. For some years they resided in that country, but at length determined to seek a home in the New World, of whose advantages and opportunities they had heard such excellent accounts. Crossing the broad Atlantic they landed in Quebec, Canada, then went direct to New York and for some years resided in Essex County, of the Empire State, until they determined upon a location in the West. The year 1855 witnessed their arrival in this county, and in Cooper Township they made a settlement, subsequently removing thence to Rochester Township, where the wife and mother died in 1868, the husband in 1875. He was a public-spirited man and took a deep interest in all that pertained to the upbuilding of the county. In religious belief they accepted the doctrine of the Presbyterian Church and lived useful and consistent lives in harmony with their professions.

Robert Craig was born in Glasgow, February 15, 1836, and his early boyhood days were spent in that city. At the age of twelve years we find him en route for the New World in company with an older brother, James, and in all the years that have since passed he has never had occasion to regret the decision which brought him to this country. He worked upon a farm for several years in New York, in the employ of Edgar Blin, and on coming to this county in 1855 he again secured employment on a farm, which work he continued until the autumn of 1862. On the 17th of October of that year he married Margaret Baker, who was born in Rochester Township, where her parents, Joseph and Eveline (Lyon) Baker, had settled at a very early day. Her father followed farming in Rochester Township until after the death of his wife, when he removed to Missouri, where his death occurred.

After his marriage Mr. Craig rented land in Cotton Hill Township for two years, during which time, with the assistance of his worthy wife, he saved enough to purchase a farm and invested his earnings in land in section 34, Rochester township - a part of his present home. Having since extended its boundaries it now comprises two hundred and fourteen acres, and the improvements which have been made greatly enhance its value. In addition to a good residence he has erected barns and other outbuildings, introduced the latest improved machinery and placed his farm on an equal with any in the township. He always keeps abreast of the times and for his success in life deserves not a little credit. He may truly be called a self-made man, for at the early age of twelve years, without capital or influential friends to aid him in the conflict, he began the battle of life, and the word victory has been written upon his banner. As a citizen he faithfully discharges his duties and two the cause of education he is a warm friend. For many years he has served as School Director and done effective service in the interests of the schools of the neighborhood.

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Craig are: Isabella, Mary, Emma and John, and they have buried seven children who died in infancy or childhood.