Family Division

Number V.

___

COLEMAN B. BRAMLET, One of the pioneer settlers of Saline County, Illinois, and the youngest of five brothers, sons of Reuben Bramlet of Kentucky. Coleman came to Illinois in early statehood, but a single man, and having some money and lots of ambition and good judgment, he began the purchase of good land while good land was cheap. His stay in Illinois was of short duration, until he felt the need of a companion. His selection was made of a sister of his brother Nathan's wife, and


Coleman B. Bramlet and Wife

no better women ever lived than those Upchurch women. He was young and able and very willing to labor, to clear up the land for farming, as his was an early day and necessity demanded work. At each opportunity he would buy more land, and he kept on buying land until he possessed 1000 acres. His family was growing and he saw the need of plenty of land, and while buying land in those days meant profits for the future, As has been stated and proven, the family is a spirited and industrious, honest people, and is noted in the knowing of the worth of a dollar and how to invest it. His schooling was a common education of his day, for a Kentucky boy, as his boyhood days were spent in that state. Uncle Coleman was noted for his generosity as a Christian and a Baptist. His life was more than meat and drink, for he spent the better part of his life in helping others. Somewhere about middle age he lost one leg, it being taken off just below the knee. He was -noted in this respect for years as being the only wooden legged man in the settlement, but his usefulness did not stop because of the loss of one foot. Many a mile he rode old Kit over the settlement looking after matters of importance, visiting the sick and seeing about delinquents on church business. His name goes out as one of the leaders in helping build church houses. Union Grove church, both temporarily and spiritually, is evidence of the fruits of his labors. The revival meeting, held in his woods lot, in 1881, was great. Forty-five new-born souls resulted, and a church was organized with Uncle Coleman as a charter member and the writer as one of the forty-five. This church is still a strong, live body, doing business for the Lord. The building, erected in 1884, still stands on the land, donated by Uncle Coleman, and is a monument to his memory. He came into this world February 15, 1802. He left this world February 28, 1889. His spirit went to God who gave it, and his body lies in the home cemetery-land that was donated, for burial purposes, by him. While his labor on earth is done, his life still lives on in the lives of others. Blessings to his memory.

1 -- BURL BRAMLET, First son of Pioneer Coleman, This son was born on his father's farm, and learned the way of the boy on the farm. There was timber to cut, and brush to pile and burn, to .make ready the land for cultivation, and plowing to do and elm roots to watch out for, or a skinned shin. His school life was to do as he could, not as he wished, for the schooling of those days was much different than now. But the farm work was as much different, and one could only make use of the times and seasons of his generation; for he could only pass that way, but once in a life time. Burl when a young man, was pretty glib on foot, as he thought, and loved to run foot races; sometimes winning, and sometimes losing. He, being the oldest boy, had to go before and do the hardest tasks, but in a few years he was dressing up in the home spun and home made jeans, and would go out to see his best girl. As the style, even in those days, was to be married, he was no exception to the rule, and a wife he took. His early married life was pleasant. and children soon were blessing this home, as farm-born children did in those days. In later years he decided to move his family and go west; and west he went, to his wife, and his home was broken almost up.. Burl came back to Illinois and spent the remainder of his days. with his daughter, who did not go west, but remained in Illinois on her farm. He left two sons living, and one daughter, to mourn his deaths

2 -- MONROE BRAMLET, First son of Burl. was born and. raised in Illinois. He lived on the farm with his parents, but did not live to know much of this world, in or out of school, as. he died young, possibly 16 or 17 years old. He entered the War of the Rebellion and died during his army service.

2 -- THOMAS BRAMLET, Second son of Burl, was also a Saline county, Illinois, boy, and lived with his parents, until grown. He had the chance of his day for an education, and did some good in the learning of books, but did not make a teacher of great note. He was proud of his knowledge of facts as learned. He went west and married, and raised a small family, of whom the writer knows nothing. He has been dead several years. Later report gives two sons -- Jess, a bachelor-farmer of Washington state, and Ellis, also of Washington, a teacher, a married man with one son ten years old,

2 -- HIRAM BRAMLET, Third son of Burl, This boy was another Bramlet, as I remember him. He was a Saline county product, and had only school advantages for some book learning, and had to work on the farm, along with his brothers. He also went west with the rest of the family, about 56 years ago, and married, but did not live to be old. Of his immediate family the writer knows nothing.

2 -- FRED BRAMLET, Fourth son of Burl. This lad was born in Illinois, and grew up as did other boys, of his day and learned things of usefulness, as he went through life. His school days were not of the very best, but he learned some of books, and how to read, write and spell, and that was quite a great help in his boyhood days. He also went west with the parents, but when he became a man, he returned to Illinois. In landing back near the old stamping ground, he found things had changed, but he soon became accustomed to surroundings, and got busy and went to work. In due time he fell in love with a fair widow, and then took her to cook for him, making a happy home, with two made as one. Fred turned around from a farmer to be a carpenter, and lives in Eldorado, Illinois, and works at his trade, owns his home, and is living a Christian life, as a Baptist should. Best wishes to Fred and family. Fred has one daughter.

2 -- CHARLEY BRAMLET, Fifth son of Burl. This boy was, and is, truly a Bramlet, for he grew up in the same old way, working, and playing, for all work and no play make hardships for boys. Charley has spent his life mostly in the west, and spent some time on the water, and in Alaska, gold hunting, but his real success, is not given out to the public. Some years ago, he came back to Illinois on a visit, and then returned to the west. The writer knows but little of him since going back into the west, only he got married, and is supporting a family, but can't report of his family, for the need of information.

2 -- WILLIAM BRAMLET, Sixth son of Burl. This is one of the boys lost to my memory, supposing he was born in the west. But he is a Bramlet, if not we would not claim him. It is said he lived to have a family, but we have no definite facts of the family.

1 -- THOMAS BRAMLET, Second son of Uncle Coleman. Thomas lived in some respects like others of an early day, not having the best in school life, for in that day school privileges were poor to compare with later years. Yet reading, spelling and some figuring were taught, and Thomas did his work in school and on the farm along with others of his class and age. Thomas gained some knowledge of the books, which he studied, also obtaining a vast amount of general knowledge, as he grew up on the farm, for in those days there was little work to be done except farm work, and the farm was and is the best place on earth for a boy or girl to spend their youthful days. Thomas grew to manhood, married and raised his family on the farm, and had three sons-Coleman, Milton and George. About the year 1876-77 Thomas moved part of his family to Texas county, Missouri, leaving Coleman and Milton in Illinois, as they were married. Thomas still lived on a farm in Missouri and died, as he lived, a Christian and a Baptist. His Spirit returned to his God who gave it and his body lies in a Missouri graveyard. His name and life are well remembered by many now living in Illinois.

2 -- COLEMAN BRAMLET, Jr., The eldest son of Thomas, like other boys, grew up on his father's farm and had an equal chance with other boys of school privilege, with the exception of health, as he was not as strong as some others. He lived to be grown and married, only living a few years after marriage. I think he had one or two children, but am not sure. At any rate, his death came at an early age, and his body was buried in the family cemetery to await the Resurrection of the dead.

3 -- JAMES BRAMLET, Only son of Coleman. This boy was a feeble little fellow and only lived a short time.

2 -- MILTON BRAMLET(See note 1.), The second son of Thomas, better known as Mit, was a very hardy, robust boy who cared little for school, but loved his sport and games. He was to be compared in strength and muscle to a pugilist. He did not love work when a boy, but like other boys of the farm, had to go up against the real thing, and as he grew to manhood, became more adapted to work. In fact, he became a hard worker, and like other young men had great pride in dolling up for Sunday. When he became a man, and he was a man in strength and wit, he felt he should take unto himself a wife, and he did, and great was the sport of the young folks at this wedding. A snow had fallen, and my, the fun. But those good jubilee days are gone, and most forgotten, yet the writer remembers the occasion. Mit raised his family in Illinois, and later moved to Missouri. He had in his family four boys -- Joseph, Lewis, Robert and Dave. Mit and one son, Joseph, died in Missouri.

3 -- JOSEPH BRAMLET, Oldest son of Milton. Joe was born on his father's farm in Saline county, Illinois. He was a joy to his parents, growing rapidly, and soon was of school age. He learned to do farm work, tie hacking and driving a team. His book education was limited. When grown to manhood he took unto himself a wife, and one son was born to this union. Later Joe moved into Missouri, but did not live long in that state, death claiming him. His age was thirty years. His life was not all sunshine, some habits not the best, but God knows the heart of man, and all men will be judged aright by the Great Judge.

4 -- AMERSON BRAMLET, Only son of Joseph came into this world without his consent. His coming, however, was welcomed by his parents. The boy's life has been through thick and thin, in and out of school. Years have come and gone, and now Amerson is a man twenty-four years old and doing a man's work. He is a coal miner, and lives near Dorrisville, Saline county, Illinois. May he ever live to know and see that God is mindful of all his doings and will reward him accordingly. Best wishes to Amerson Bramlet.

3 -- LEWIS BRAMLET, Second son of Milton. Lewis is another home born son, and a pride of parents, especially of his aged mother, who yet lives, but is blind. Lewis, when a boy, was very active in learning, and doing things in and out of school. He learned the art of labor when growing up, and the years of time prove him to be a man of a family. After years of toil, he purposed to change his occupation, therefore the change to merchandising. His present home and grocery business are in Gaskin City, Saline county, Illinois, where he can be found busy, doing things for better living. His age is forty-four years.

4 -- LACY BRAMLET, Oldest son of Lewis, a boy who came into the world barefooted, but soon was clothed in comfort. Lacy seems to be a puny lad, yet has grown to be a young man of 17 years. May he live to a ripe old age, and learn the way of righteousness ere time should be no more on earth with Lacy.

4 -- MILTON BRAMLET, Second son of Lewis. Milt, as he is called, has the distinction of showing true blood, if he will only stick to the right bush which has the choice fruit. He has an education that will tell in older days, when age will bring rich rewards from heaven's bountiful store, because of an early life choice of the best, a Savior.

3 -- ROBERT BRAMLET, Third son of Milton, deceased. Bob, as he is called, was a boy full of fun, a real boy in the home. He got some schooling along with his tasks of work. His knowledge of work remains in his being to this day. His home is in Rosiclaire, Illinois. His daily task is engineering at the Spahr mine. He owns his home, and is a married man, with a family. Many hardships in life have been his to experience, but blessings come to those deserving. Robert is 41 years old and looking onward and upward.

4 -- KENNETH BRAMLET, Oldest son of Robert. Kenneth is a boy of some pride, knowing he is one of the royal family by name. His life is only in its youth-a 12 year old chap. His prospects for future growth and development should be adhered to. His school privilege is fine, to compare with his grandfather. It is to be hoped Kenneth makes his mark high and has an ideal broad enough to gain a victory worth striving for. Boy, look well to a foundation.

4 -- ROBERT BRAMLET, Jr., Second son of Robert, Sr. This lad is yet small and hardly of school age -- only 5 -- but he can see and understand things which come to his observation, and will follow examples of the older ones. With even habits, good or bad, carefulness is a watch guide in setting examples to be followed.

3 -- DAVID BRAMLET, Fourth son of Milton, deceased. Dave, as he is called, is another chip which flies here and yonder. His boyhood days were like unto other boys -- some work, some play, some little schooling. Years have brought many changes, some observatory, some experimental. Dave soon became a man doing a man's work, and felt his manhood sufficiently to enter the matrimonial ring. This 1923 he is a man of 39 years. His family of boys -- four of them -- are with him, and his wife. He lives in Ledford, Illinois. His vocation in life is as a teamster, doing hauling for the public, which is work. The writer has hopes of Dave's life being pure.

4 -- CHARLEY BRAMLET, Oldest son of David, the first, a pride new and clean, pure, but without sin. This boy is a school boy of 12. Should Charley keep apace with present school opportunities, he will grow in that which will prove beneficial to man in after years. The world is his to learn of and to possess his portion. An early preparation makes bountiful gain in the end.

4 -- CONRAD BRAMLET, Second son of David, a pride of parents, a real boy of 10 years, in school. His instructions, by parent and teacher, if well soaked in, will prove of great benefit when older. May he prepare to be useful.

4 -- MILLAGE BRAMLET, Third son of David. This boy has the trait and makeup of the real stock, a boy of eight years a school boy, with great opportunities. Should his ability prove worthy of advancement, his future will be prosperous. His duty to parents and teachers is obedience, which is a step for a good foundation. Should he strive to grow, his knowledge Will be to him a power, for good.

4 -- LEWIS BRAMLET, Fourth son of David. This little fellow will follow others in exemplifying their lives in doing things. Setting example is a carefulness or bone of instruction which belongs to the older to be followed by the younger ones. This boy of two years has the world to look to for good or bad. The early grafted principles into mind and life are the ones that will count for good all along the line of life.

2 -- GEORGE BRAMLET, Third son of Thomas, left Illinois with his father and was about fourteen or fifteen years old, and we have not known or heard much of his life for some years. But when we were boys and in school together, I will say George was some tobacco chewer and spitter. He could throw a paper wad almost perfectly, but always came to his class with a good lesson. Arithmetic, which was hard for others, seemed easy for George. Reading, writing and spelling, with a little cyphering, were our studies, but later came grammar and geography and some history, and a study they called orthography. Gee, weren't we going some? But, listen, George grew up to be a man, after going to Missouri. Just a few years ago, in 1916, the writer was in business in Miller county, Mo. My name being known as Bramlet, a party asked me if I was related to one George Bramlet, of Texas county, Mo., and I told him I was, after asking him some questions. Then question after question, and I obtained some desired information. As I was getting facts of history for this write-up, I was truly glad to hear of my old friend and schoolmate of boyhood days and a relative. I learned George was in the real estate business and still a single man, pity on the bachelors. Bachelors never turn the world up side down, they just leave it as the good Lord made it, and they are seldom called papa or grandpa. The instruction is to multiply and replenish the earth.

2 -- CLARENCE BRAMLET, Fourth son of Thomas, born in Missouri to a second wife. Little is known of this young man.

1 -- JOHN BRAMLET, Third son mentioned of Pioneer Coleman Bramlet, like other boys of the farm learned to do farm work, getting his part of a boy's chance of his day in obtaining an education, to read, spell and write, as these were the principal studies in an education. Those with ability to comprehend readily made fast advancement in their studies, and with their natural makeup they obtained a general knowledge of facts which assures a fair success in life, considering they take Christ into their lives as a guide. John had two sons, Quincy A. and John N. Their father was a very successful farmer of his day, but died at an early age. John N. was born after his father's death. The fruit of his labor is seen in the lives of his two sons, as they own the home farm and many additional acres. John was buried in the family cemetery.

2 -- QUINCY A. BRAMLET, Oldest son of John, is still living at this writing, February 24, 1923, but is reported in feeble health. He lives on his farm half a mile south of his birthplace. Quincy acquired a common school education of his time and has made good as a citizen and as a farmer. He is the husband of one wife, a deacon in the Union Grove Baptist church. His life will count for much after he leaves this world. He has no children to leave behind, an aged wife and brother being nearest to him by natural ties. Quincy Bramlet, as a boy and young man, was a great delight to his mother, his father dying when Quincy was just a boy. There were stock and chickens to feed and plowing to be done, and Q. A. was the hustling boy about the place. His grandfather, Coleman Bramlet, was in a sense father to Quincy. His grandfather would encourage him, and with some hired help, crops were made and all stock cared for. Year by year the boy grew larger and stronger and became an adept to do the necessary work, which lasted from early to late each day in the week. Most farmers know the amount of work to be done on the farm, year in and year out. Quincy was a faithful hand in the field, but none the less faithful at the dining table. Give him plenty of rich sweet milk, good hot biscuits with plenty of butter and some sorghum or honey, and he felt at home. This good eats is enjoyed by us all, but the working man can and does put more of it away. The aged man gets hungry, but it takes less to satisfy him. At this writing age is telling on Quincy. Later-On February 16, 1924, Quincy Bramlet fell asleep in Jesus, and his body lies in the home cemetery to await the resurrection of the body.

2 -- JOHN N. BRAMLET, Brother of Q. A., was an unborn son of John Bramlet at his death. John N. was born May 9, 1861, and is now living on the old homestead. He was an adept boy becoming a driver of his mother's horse and buggy loaded with fresh eggs going to the market. Eggs were very cheap fifty years ago, but John N., with his mother, would haul off eggs by the washtub full. John N. was never a real strong boy, as some other boys were, but always taken good care of himself, therefore he yet lives and is some hustler, owning several hundred acres of good land, besides owning several hundred acres of coal under land. He was always a good boy, in the home and in the school room. His lessons in school were well gotten up and well delivered. The writer was a class-mate of his, and how we worked on those hard problems in Ray's Third Arithmetic -- but we worked them all. The writer well remembers the hard ones; and year by year came and went until boys had grown to be men. And John N. is an object of finance in the community, also in the church, and home. His home consists of himself, sons and daughters. A vacant place in his home was recently made by the death of his companion. John N. was a devoted husband, and he is worthy of the name of father; always up to now with his obligations, his word is his bond, and this is one specific principle of this noted family. The most strenuous work on the farm was done by hired help, but the detail work and chores were well looked after by John N. His assurance of having peace with God was settled years ago, therefore his success on earth is sure, also in Heaven. The Lord loves a cheerful giver.

3 -- LLOYD BRAMLET, Oldest son of John N., is living and prosperous, was born on the farm, got his schooling in the home public school, and the high school, at me county seat. John Lloyd learned farming, on the farm, and in school he added to his farm knowledge, engineering, and is successful as an engineer. His early home and school life was a life of special care and training, and in his parental life he has the foundation to build on, and train his own sons. Lloyd is making good as a citizen, as a neighbor, and husband and father. His early choice in life of Jesus as a savior, means much to his life, and in doing Christian duty, letting his life shine for the right. His age at this writing of March 8th, 1923, is only in its prime, and should he live to a ripe old age many changes and experiences will be his to know. May his life be useful, and prosperous.

4 -- JOHN LLOYD, JR., Oldest son of John Lloyd, Sr., Bramlet, is living in his parents' home, and has not seen but little of this word, being under school age. But if permitted to live and grow, the future will be his to know. Trusting his early training will be sufficient to make a foundation for a useful life.

4 -- JAMES BRAMLET, Second son of Lloyd, Sr., one more heir to gladden the home of his parents, but his coming has been only lately, but hope his presence will not be refused, by his brother. These young lives are to be the men of the future generation, and may they be well prepared for the opportunities of doing good.

3 -- WILLARD BRAMLET, Second son of John N. Willard has had good opportunities for advancement, and has made good so far in life, his boy school days in home school were pleasant and with splendid success. But his labor on the farm was never as burdensome as some who grew up on a farm. An education has been his desire, and progress is his to enjoy. It seems his aims are high, and his foundation sure; therefore, his future is assured. May blessings, both natural and spiritual, be his to enjoy. Some time in the year of 1923 Willard made choice of a companion to share life's pleasures and sorrows with him. He and wife live on the south side of the farm in a new home, with such comforts about them to make life pleasant and profitable. May God's blessings be theirs to enjoy through life.

3 -- HAYWARD BRAMLET, Third son of John N. Another boy of hustle and economy, but his life will be remembered by those of his classes-his school, days, as a boy, .have been interesting, as well as profitable. Hayward has a bright future ahead of him, and truly, father looks forward to his splendid achievements, The writer wishes him success in all that's good. Later, as Hayward grows to manhood he has developed a business project, selling auto paint, and handling the right of the entire state of Missouri, working out from the state capital.

3 -- ROBERT BRAMLET, Fourth son of John N. Robert, much younger than his father, and knows less, but his. time is coming when he will show the older ones how things can be done. His name indicates more than one might think; being the younger, gives him a chance to develop both brain and muscle, as his future is his to prove. We wish Robert the best in life, and, may many days be his for his usefulness.

1 -- BLUFORD BRAMLET, Fourth son mentioned of Pioneer Coleman Bramlet. Bluford, like other boys, grew up under the same existing circumstances of his brothers, having fair access to the school in his day, poor as it may have been. Each person received his portion of an education according to his work. All farm boys learned, the industry of get up and go, with the home training, and. which prepared them for usefulness in life. These Bramlet boys were no exception to the rule; peace and quietude was an inbred, principle of our family name. And where peace failed to be, there was, or is, more or less strife. Peace is the back-bone of wisdom, naturally speaking. Bluford grew up to manhood, got married, and was the father of three children. One son, Ewing Bluford, went away on business and never returned. Therefore, little is known of his life after his disappearance. Later-He was. known to be in California and was killed years ago. One of the men guilty of his murder later hanged himself.

2 -- EWING BRAMLET, Son of Bluford. Ewing was raised on a farm, and knew but little of any other kind of work. He was a small boy when his father was called, away and. knew but little of his father, yet he managed to keep the wolf from his mother's door by her assistance, until years brought about better things for the family-the selling of the home and Ewing growing up to be a man assured a better way of support. Later he married, and then came a change of affairs. His life as a boy in school was very slim, but he had an ambition to win, his personality helping to gain for him some degree of success. In later years he moved his family to Oklahoma, and: there he lived until death. He left wife, sons and daughters, they returning to Illinois.

3 -- HESEKIAH BRAMLET, Oldest son of Ewing. W. H., as some know him, has not had the best of chances in life; his school days were few to compare with what he should have had, but, being of a determined disposition, he feels time well spent to get by with some knowledge of books. He was taught the right principle of work and understands his bread and butter comes through the channel of labor. Therefore, he earns his bread by the sweat of his brow, enjoying the fruit of his labor. he has grown to be a man, and married, but the writer knows nothing of his family. His home is at Alton, Ill.

3 -- RAYMOND BRAMLET, Second son of Ewing was born in Saline county, Illinois. He lived only four years. His life was short, but sweet.

3 -- NEWTON H. BRAMLET, Third son of Ewing. Newton failed to live to be a man, and little can be said of his short life, but he made his young friends while living. Before he was taken sick he seemed to be as cheerful as any boy, and was; but in early life he submitted to giving up hopes of living and passed out, and into the beyond, where suffering is no more and where sorrow is changed to joy.

1 -- WILLIAM BRAMLET, Fifth son mentioned of Pioneer Coleman, was as other boys of his day. He grew upon his father's farm, having a like chance to public school privileges, yet made only a fair advancement in learning to read and to write. William, unlike some boys, seemed to enjoy and took pride in doing farm work. But his school days he did not seem to enjoy so well. Year after year he grew into manhood, and began to think and plan for future life. His pride and ambition was to have a home for himself, and soon he took the marriage vow. His determination was strong to grow and prosper in his home and family. But at the beginning of his family life, having three children in the home, a call came for soldiers to go to the army. William Bramlet shaped his affairs and soon was an enlisted soldier of the Civil war. He remained a true soldier until his death., which occurred while in service for his country, His son, John B„ was left without a father, in infancy.

2 -- JOHN BLUFORD BRAMLET, The only son of William Bramlet (deceased), still lives in Eldorado, Ill. John grew up on the home farm, but under very painful conditions, as he was under the tutorship of a step-father. But John bore his trials with grace and grit. His school days, as a boy, were limited. He never made much progress in his school work because of the strenuous work at home, but he learned to read and spell fairly well. Year by year came and went -- soon he became a grown-up man and felt his ability to care for a wife. John owned a good forty acres of land-the farm he was raised on- so a wife was his choice. Two sons were born to this union, Charley and Henry. These boys were soon left without a mother. But their father, in due time, brought home a new mother. John ("Buck," as he is known) sold his farm and moved to town, where he now lives. He has one son, John, Jr., by the last wife. His present home is made pleasant by having: comfortable surroundings and the pleasant associations of wife and children. His present occupation is mining, and he is making and saving money,

3 -- CHARLEY BRAMLET, Oldest son of John B., grew up under strenuous conditions, as he was left without a mother while quite small, and was cared for by relatives. But by and by, Charles began to shift for himself, as he was very industrious. He only got a limited education because of conditions, yet he was making good as a young man, when he decided to branch out into the world, and going from home. While away on one occasion, he was in stream, bathing, and got drowned. Charley was only a young man, full of life and vim, and made warm friends wherever his lot was cast. His young boy friends sorrowed in his absence.

3 -- HENRY BRAMLET, Second son of John B., was also left very young without a mother and was a sickly chap. His aunts and others helped to care for him. As he grew up a nickname was given him, and he is better known by the name of "Toops" so we call him "Toops." "Toops" was a good child, and everyone liked him. His days in school-what few days he got to go to school-was time well spent. The instruction given him was. well maintained. Yet he never obtained a great deal of bookology, but his well-balanced mind contained its capacity of facts to a betterment of his knowledge. The boy, as he went from here to yonder made friends and gained knowledge. He grew up to be a fine looking man and took unto himself a wife. One son was born to this union, Edmond. This union became a divided affair, so "Toops" goes alone. He knew but little of farm work, but when a young man took up the restaurant or cooking work, and made good. Later he changed his occupation and went west, and at this writing the writer knows not of his whereabouts.

4 -- EDMOND BRAMLET, Son of Henry ('Toops") is in Eldorado, Ill. He is out of school, losing the opportunity of the present school system in gaining an education. But if he fails to make good it will not be because of the lack of instruction; any boy should make good under our present school system, The writer had rather see all boys make good than to see them fail. The poorer the education, the less are the chances for making good in the world. The education, moral and intellectual advancement of every individual depends chiefly upon his own work. The youthful school days are only starting a foundation to build on: therefore, a good and strong foundation should be Edmond Bramlet.


Nathan Bramlet

1 -- NATHAN BRAMLET, The sixth son mentioned of Pioneer Coleman, was another son who had some farm life experience and had a like opportunity of free school privilege of his day, and about an average of the country schools. Nathan was not as strong a man as some of his brothers, but took all necessary precautions in holding on to that one important fact-realizing the elder ones were his equal if not his superior-he tried to gain such information as would be useful in future days, and this is just what he did. His honesty and make-up as a man was not to be excelled by man. His life to those who knew him best was an open book, and read by those who associated and dealt with him. Nathan, like other men, when grown to be a man, took unto himself a wife. He was a faithful husband and gather, having two sons, Evert and Meeks. He made preparation for life and for death and the life to come. His last days were his best days. His body lies in its resting place to await the Judgment.

2 -- EVERT BRAMLET, Oldest son of Nathan, still lives and resides on his farm, in Saline county, Illinois. E. E., as he is known, is making a success as a farmer, husband and father. As a boy, his opportunity for school was equal with other boys of his day. Evert was equal to the occasion in keeping up with his classmates in their studies, getting a fair common school education. A part of his boyhood days were spent in the village of Eldorado. But later farm life was his to enjoy, and he did not fail to make preparation for time and eternity at an opportune time. When grown to be a man, like others, courtship and marriage was his to choose. He made his choice of a companion, and a happy home is the result, being blest with a son and daughters. E. E., as his name implies, is known far and near. One noted feature here mentioned is the long and broad foundation on which the Bramlet family stands and walks-a true saying, when you build, build on a solid foundation, The same rule or saying will prove good in building of homes, principle and character, and one's success in life depends on his foundation of character and principle. The family is a noted family for these important traits. With some few exceptions, religiously speaking, the name implies, "Baptist in belief."

3 -- LUDA BRAMLET, Only son of E. E., now resides in Eldorado, Ill. Luda was raised on a farm, and ran in and out of the home many times, but seemed to never tire, as his size was like a minute. The writer knew him when he was too busy at play to carry water to the field, but he grew out of that. As a school boy he was a knot, but he learned faster than you could throw a brick. His book knowledge came seemingly easy, and soon he was ready for more technical school work. His mind grasped many well known facts of his father's teaching while on the farm. His mind was never slow in gathering and storing food for the brain, and after his school days were over his ambition did not stop, but reached out to a better preparation for the necessary qualification to equip him for a permanent business life. His present situation is proof of his scholastic qualification in equipping himself for a permanent business life. Experience means improvement and therefore spells business success, in a measure. Luda can be found at his desk in a wholesale grocery in Eldorado, Illinois. He has a wife. May he see and realize the necessity of preparing for the great eternity; much more necessary than preparing for a business course in life, and may he see the light in Christ's gospel.

2 -- MEEKS BRAMLET, Deceased son of Nathan, was raised in and about Eldorado, Illinois. When a boy he was just as mischievous as a boy could very well be, and cared little for school, until he received a thorough drilling by his father; then he saw come necessity for an education. When the necessary disciplined is properly applied, a boy can be greatly benefited, and this was the case with Meeks. He was somewhat of a double knot, but it worked out in good shape. While he evaded opportunities for work when a boy, yet as he grew up he learned idleness would breed sin, so he made a complete turn-about for usefulness and got busy to know what he might be good for. His sin was troubling him, therefore a confession to his Christ was made, and in acceptance of Jesus' love was known to the rejoicing of a new-born soul. This change was for Eternity, and time tells he good story. His Bible, was the book sought, and its pages were read and studied and then preached by this knotty boy. God's blessings still abound for those who love him. After taking unto himself a wife and being called to preach and entering his calling, he felt impressed to move, so with his family he moved to Missouri. Just how much family he has is not known by the writer, but he still lives in Missouri. Later news reports his death. Blessed are they who die in the Lord.

1 -- HENDERSON BRAMLET, Seventh son mentioned of Pioneer Coleman, was born on his father's farm and was raised on the farm, making good use of all present opportunities for gaining knowledge, both from farm and books. His school work was fine and his duty well performed. He seemed to take well with teacher and pupil, therefore advancement was assured. His work on his father's farm was also pleasant, for it was his ambition to learn and improve. It appeared to him that success was for those who worked for it. The real man was in his makeup, as was proven by the honest, industrious way in which he mastered books and gained knowledge, which was his to possess. When he reached manhood, his ability was sufficient to qualify him for a teacher's position, and he made good according to laws and rules of his state. After teaching some few schools in Illinois, he decided to go west and grow up with the county. He saved money from his school work and made all things ready for travel. California was his destination, and he landed safely and sought work. His first work was in a harvest field, but later he taught school. From the school room he was elevated to the office of county superintendent of schools, and served in this capacity four successful terms of four years each. Then he was called to the county auditor's office for one or more terms. In earlier years, Henderson made peace with God and always lived up to the principle of righteousness which he possessed. He still lives in California and has a family. John Coleman, only son of Henderson, died in infancy.

1 -- HEZEKIAH BRAMLET, Eighth son mentioned of Pioneer Coleman. Hezekiah, being the youngest child of this pioneer settler, his life was a farmer's life by birth and also by practice. His school days were days well spent in obtaining a practical knowledge of books. His summers were spent on the farm, doing farm work and looking after stock. In the winter months during school hours he could be found in or about the school room. Being the youngest of the family, his school days and opportunities for school were better than for his older brothers. Therefore, his liking was for school and to gain a valuable knowledge, and in this he did not fail. As a boy on the farm, his life was similar to that of other boys of the farm. It was work and play, ride calves and colts, bend down saplings and go in swimming, get whippings and go to bed. Hezekiah was never considered a bad boy, but all boys liked innocent sport, running, jumping, playing ball and such other games as were played in school grounds. Yet his farm and school work were well kept up and in his early manhood days he qualified himself


Hezekiah Bramlet

for teaching and taught several successful schools. The writer's first school, at the age of six years, was to Hezekiah Bramlet, and he taught and he whipped when necessary, and on some occasions it was very necessary. In after years he held positions of trust in his county, but always lived on the farm, having boys to work the farm. His three sons are living-W. R. J. E. and Everett. He did not fail in that one needful thing in choosing in early life a Savior as a life comforter, a spirit of truth. He is the husband of one wife, a deacon in the First Baptist Church and a leader of song and prayer, and also of men. His ability to teach and explain was hardy excelled by man; in fact, he could say more with less words than any man the writer ever knew. Was there ever a time in life that he would fail to help or accommodate a friend or neighbor? His life as a man is worthy of following as an example. He was a great mixer and was liked by all who knew him. His death was a shock to the people of the neighborhood and county. His body lies in the grave and his spirit dwells in peace with God. His life is remembered by many, and the fruits of his labors will still live in the hearts and lives of those with whom he labored. Such a life is hard to forget, but easy to remember. His funeral procession was a token of love and respect, by those who knew him best, but he will not be wept for as one who had no hope, knowing his life and hopes to be true and without a doubt. May the reader be profited by his life, and may the young, as he did, remember thy Creator in the days of youth In school life as pupil and teacher, Hezekiah was hardly excelled in any work and in spelling he was superior to most any one of Saline county. He delighted in the old fashioned spelling matches. He is missed in home, church and community. May many blessings follow his good life.

2 -- WARNER R. BRAMLET, Oldest son of Hezekiah, was born and reared on his father's farm, a part of which he now owns and lives on. W. R. is no exception to the general rule of leading in things good. When a boy, being a teacher's son, he had chances for an education above the average boy, and he made the best use of his time. Yet his home duties were to be done, as all boys of these days, and he knew what it was to go up against the real thing on a farm, which was and is the making of men. The old school house where W. R. and the writer went to school, has been torn down, and two new school houses built in the district since, on new sites. The old site was land teaching. As years have come and gone, changes have been teaching. Have years have come and gone, changes have been made, boys have become men, and Warner is today a man of family. In his younger days an education was his ambition, and in this he has not failed. After finishing his common school work, his next ambition was a higher education, so he went to Ewing College where he spent some time. After leaving the College, he felt his qualification was sufficient to teach school. For several years of school months his time was given to teaching in the public schools of Saline county, Illinois. His mind, while in school as a student, was strictly on his work (not on the girls), but after his teaching career he had money saved and he made a selection of a companion, a teacher. W.R. is a teacher and a farmer, and knows the steps which take a man to a successful life. Having made peace with his Savior in early years, his life speaks for better things than bread and meat. He has that foundation principle which tells a true story of life. Honesty is the back-bone principle; industry is the source of comfort, a combination which means success. Warner can be found on his farm, three miles west of Eldorado, Illinois. His home stands three hundred feet south of Union Grove Baptist Church. He has two boys, school age and size, Paul and Fred, whose lives are in the possible future. Blessings on the boys.

3 -- PAUL BRAMLET, Oldest son of Warner. Paul is some boy, as we see him, in height, and his height is not all of him. His work in school and out of school will tell, and the pains he has taken to do things well is a step in advance for good. His position, as held at his age, is some evidence of parental training in the home, as both parents are capable teachers. His success is expected in future life, should he live to develop his ambition and training. His class-mates understand, there is work to do to lead Paul in books or on the play ground. His possibilities are in his coming days, to be lived out in usefulness; there-fore his early preparation. His present life is on the home farm, which is the choice place to raise boys, as our best men are from the farm. At present he is in high school at Eldorado.

3 -- FRED BRAMLET, Second son of W. R., comes on the list as others, but none the less for achievement. If you will only watch his movements you can say he is akin to the Bramlet family, and will own the name. Other boys of his age will know he is one of the real live ones, in school and out of school. His life as a boy will not be neglected by the teacher, nor will he fail to make good his time, as his name means more than failure. Such boys of today are to be the men of tomorrow, and the improvement or advancement of future development depends largely on the preparedness of our boys of today. May these boys be up and doing in gaining knowledge for time and eternity. Blessings on Fred's life.

2 -- JOSEPH EDWARD BRAMLET, Second son of Hezekiah, is a farm-brought-up boy, but his growth shows feed and exercise. No one could put it over Ed in his school work, and he was very much pleased to excel his classmates, which was often done. He liked his fun, but was firm when it came to things of importance. He was not an exception to other farm boys, as many of them were disciplined for neglect of work. A boy naturally likes play, but too much play is not so good for the job of work that needed to be done, Ed has the qualifications that make up a full fledged Bramlet, his wit, his ambition, assures success. After his school days as a pupil, he tried teaching, proving very apt to this calling. He also developed a musical talent, and made good as a bass singer. In due time he gave up his farm work and spliced hands with Uncle Sam. He is now living in Eldorado, Illinois, and is in the mail service. Ed has saved of his earnings, and like other men, has leased a dollar's value to be 100 cents, in U. S. money. Ed has a wife and two sons, Hubert and Homer.

3 -- HUBERT BUTLER BRAMLET, Oldest son of Joseph Edward Bramlet, was born near Eldorado, Saline County, Illinois, on December 9, 1894. Attended rural school (Bramlet's) and Eldorado public schools; graduated from the Eldorado Township High School in 1913; A. B. degree in Chemistry, University of Illinois, June, 1917; member of the Chemistry Club, Varsity Cross Country Team, University Choral Society, Choir of the University Baptist Church, and Zeta Chapter of the Alpha Chi Sigma Fraternity. Research chemist with E. I. DuPont de Nemours & Co., Woodbury, N. J., summer of 1917. Entered the military service of the United States, October 3, 1917, as a Private in Co. M, 333rd In-


Hubert Butler Bramlet

fantry, at Camp Taylor, Kentucky. Served as Private, Corporal and Sergeant; transferred to the Chemical Service Section, National Army, Washington, D, C., December 2, 1917; served as Private, Sergeant, Sergeant First Class, and Second Lieutenant (commissioned on March 4, 1918). Appointed First Lieutenant, Chemical Warfare Service, on July 19, 1918. Stationed at Washington, D. C., under the Director of the Chemical Warfare Service (Major General William L. Sibert, U. S. Army) until January 4, 1920. Later served as Chemical Warfare Officer, 7th Division, under Major General E. F. McGlachlin, Jr. Appointed First Lieutenant, Chemical War-fare Service, Regular Army, September 21, 1920. Graduated from the Chemical Warfare School, December, 1921. Stationed at Edgewood Arsenal, Maryland, since October 2, 1921. Adjutant, First Gas Regiment, the first and only organization of its kind in the U. S. Army. Sang tenor in the Choir of Immanuel Baptist Church, Washington, D. C., during 1918, 1919 and 1921. This church is now the National Roger Williams Memorial Church, for which the first ground was broken by the later President Warren G. Harding. Married at Eldorado, Illinois, June 24, 1922, to Marie Mildred DuBois. Member of Eldorado Lodge No. 730, A. F. & A. M.; Albert Pike Consistory No. 1, Washington, D. C.; Ashlar Club of Edgewood Arsenal; Md.; First Baptist Church, Eldorado, Illinois.

HOMER BRAMLET, Second son of Edward, was born on the farm, but never made a farmer, as his parents moved to town too soon to develop a farmer from such a young boy. Yet most of his school days were in the city schools of Eldorado. He has also developed into a bass singer, as a member of the Baptist church choir of Eldorado. Homer makes his home with his parents and is a single man.

Notes:
1. Milton was out of place in the original and 'disconnected' from his descendants. I simply moved his name to this position.



Return to Table of Contents or Return Home