Norton THOMPSON, a retired farmer residing in Lacon, was for some years connected with the agricultural interests of Marshall county and his business discernment, enterprise and capable management were the factors in a success which now enables him to rest without further recourse to the active labor of the fields. He was born on the 3d of February, 1836, and his parents were Asa and Nancy THOMPSON. The father, who was born in Ohio, devoted his entire life to farming and died in the year 1885.
Norton THOMPSON, the only son, was reared under the parental roof and acquired in his youth a good English education in the public schools. Throughout his entire business career he followed the occupation to which he was reared, having one hundred and sixty acres of land, which he brought under a high state of cultivation. He carried on his farming interests in accordance with the most modern and progressive methods, utilized the latest improved machinery in the care of the fields and in course of time was enabled through his diligence and enterprise to win a place among the substantial residents of the county, having a capital sufficient to now supply him with all of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life as he spends the evening of his days in a pleasant home in Lacon.
Mr. THOMPSON married Miss Elizabeth HOSKINS and unto them were born two sons: Graham La Rose and Otis, both of whom are following farming. Mr. and Mrs. THOMPSON traveled life's journey happily together for many years, sharing with each other in the joys and sorrows, the adversity and prosperity which checker the lives of all, but about four years ago they were separated through the death of Mrs. THOMPSON, a most estimable lady who enjoyed in large measure the esteem and kindly regard of all with whom she was brought in contact. She was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church and shaped her life by its teachings.
Mr. THOMPSON was for five years a member of an Illinois regiment of infantry during the Civil war. His political views are in accord with the principles of the republican party and he has always kept well informed on questions and issues of the day, so that he has been enabled to support his political position by intelligent argument. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church, and his life has been honorable and upright, characterized by the utmost fidelity to the teachings of the denomination. His probity in business, his fidelity in friendship and his loyalty in citizenship combine to make him one of the prominent and representative men of Lacon.
Extracted June 2011 by Norma Hass from
Past and Present of Marshall and Putnam Counties
| Bureau | Putnam | |
| Stark |
 |
La Salle |
| Peoria | Woodford |
