WORKMAN, ESAU, an enterprising and success farmer of Section 18, Chatham Township, Sangamon County, was born in the township, June 1, 1876, son of John Workman, one of the extensive land owners of the region and a shrewd business man, who was able to recognize and take advantage of opportunities offered him, thus attaining remarkable success. Esau Workman spent his school days in Oak Ridge School, near his father's home, and under the direction and instruction of his father became a practical farmer. He was married, July 29, 1896, to Miss Henrietta Hudson, who was born in Kentucky and came to Illinois with her parents, Wesley Hudson and wife, now residing in Springfield. In 1897 Mr. Workman and his wife took possession of a forty acre farm in Curran Township, and the following year came to the farm where they now live. In 1900 they moved to Springfield and three years later purchased ten acres of land on West Grand Place, where they erected a fine home and put in many improvements, selling the property at a handsome profit in 1903, after which they returned to the farm where Mr. Workman was born and remained that winter. In the spring of 1904 they returned to the farm they had previously occupied, in Section 18, and have since made it their home. This farm contained 307 acres and they have added the home place of 110 acres, making 417 acres altogether. Mr. Workman also owns a farm of 263 ½ acres in Christian County, Ill., thus making 680 ½ acres in the corn belt of Illinois, where profits are sure to be large.

Mr. Workman has spent his life in farming ever since old enough to begin active operations, and is one of the most progressive men of his community, being a believer in modern ideas and methods. He has made many improvements in his farm putting in tile and building fences and in the former has used some 1,500 rods of tiling. He makes a specialty of stock breeding and has a good grade, including Poland China hogs and a large flock of pure blood Shropshire sheep. He is active in promoting any public enterprise and takes great interest in the men and measures of the Republican party, whose principles he always supports, being ready at any time to use his time and influence to push any movement which enlists his sympathy. He is well known for business honesty and integrity and has the entire confidence of all with whom he has had dealings. He ships about three carloads of cattle annually and finds a good market for them. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church at Loami. They have one son, Frank H., born November 21, 1899.