J. R. Howard, farmer, section 12, Richland Township, was born in Oxford County, Maine, February 25, 1844, son of Thomas J. and Olive (Bean) Howard, natives of the same state. They reared a family of twelve children, eight sons and four daughters, J. R. being the eighth child. When he was ten years old his parents removed to Massachusetts, where they lived two years, then went to Illinois and located in La Salle County, near Ottawa. His early life was spent at farm work and in attending the common schools. March 4, 1874, he was united in marriage with Miss Emily Sexton, of La Salle County, who was born in Norfolk, England, daughter of Stephen and Mary Sexton, who were the parents of ten children. When Emily was about three years old the family came to America and located in La Salle County, where she was reared and educated. Mr. Howard resided in La Salle County until 1875, when he removed to this county and located upon his present farm, having purchased 160 acres the previous year. It was known as “Speculator’s land.” He has improved his farm until it equals any farm in the township. He owns 200 acres, and it is in a good state of cultivation. He has a nice cottage, situated on a fine lawn and surrounded with shade trees. He has good farm buildings for stock and grain, and a thrifty orchard. Mr. and Mrs. Howard are the parents of four children—Effie D., Charles K., Olive Mabel and Benjamin F. Politically, Mr. Howard is a Greenbacker, and a strong believer in the principals of that party. He has served as road supervisor, township trustee and member of the school board. He takes an active interest in all enterprises that advance the welfare of his community.

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