I'm looking for a family that in 1839 were living in Hancock County, Illinois.

The head of household was:
Alexander Martin (which maybe was recorded, Alexander Martin, Jr.) He would be in the 20-30 years of age range. He would have possibly two or three women listed with him. One in the 20-30 year range and one in the 5-10 year range.

I realize the early censuses are tough sledding in locating families but if anyone has access to 1840 Census of Hancock County, I would so appreciate the help.

Jeff Martin,
Chetek, WI

Jeff Martin

Jeff, I just looked at Ancestry's 1840 census for Hancock County, IL and here is what I saw. "Alex Martin:1 male under 5; 1 male 5-10;1 male 15-20; 1 male 20-30; 1 male 50-60. Females 3: 1 female 10-15; 1 female 15-20 & 1 female 40-50." The page number was very light but could be 21. The Ancestry page number is 75 of 115. No township is given. I hope this is of some help. Nancy

Thank you, Nancy. It is. It may be another piece in the puzzle. Thank you again for your kindness!

The Marriage Index of Hancock County, Ill. 1829-1849 Vol 1 (Tri-County Genealogical Society, 1983), page 30, lists license number 281 given to Alexander Martin Jr and Mary Ann Martin, issued on 15 June 1839, and marriage performed by DH Wells, JP. EarlyLDS.com lists them living at T7 R8, Sec 11, which would be immediately around today's Niota.

EarlyLDS.com also lists Alexander Sr and Margaret owning the same piece of property, along with Sec 14, NW/4 of the SW/4, 40 Acres (immediately south of Sec 11); Sec 14, E/2 of the NW, 80 Acres; Sec 15, NW of the SW (east of Sec 14), all in the same Twp.

The 1842 Hancock County Assessor's Record lists the following for Alexander Martin (doesn't say whether Jr or Sr, but does say that he is in T7 R8): Cattle: $50; Waggons: $30; Clocks: $5; Stock in Trade: L; Other Articles: $100; Total taxable property: $235

You may also be interested to know that living next door to Alexander in the 1842 Assessor's record was a John Martin who had $100 in horses, $30 in waggons, $10 in watches, and $10 in other articles, making $150 total taxable property.

Joseph!

I can't thank you enough for this information. I have a copy of their marriage record but knew none of the other info you supplied.

Thank you, again for your efforts on my behalf!

Jeff Martin (Alex's 3rd great-grandson)
Chetek, WI