Seventy-two years a resident of Hancock county, Mrs. Nancy Roberts could certainly be called a pioneer.  In that length of time wonderful changes have taken place.  Fancy Jane Shipley [sic] was born Jan. 8, 1827, in the state of Tennessee, and came to Illinois with her parents in 1829, who settled in Hancock county, near Webster.  At this time there were only two families living near, the country being wild and unsettled.  She resided near Webster until her marriage to James Roberts in 1837.*  She then took up her abode at his residence, and has ever since lived at the old home. Mr. Roberts died Feb. 18, 1890.  Mrs. Roberts was afflicted at the time of his death, and had never been strong since.  A part of the time she has been able to move about, but since last March had been confined to her bed.  Having come to this state at so early a date, the deceased had witnessed many changes.  All the old settlers have passed away, and few who came at a later date are left to tell of the work of pioneer days.  At an early age she united with the Baptist church, and when married she, with her husband, united with the Methodist church.  They were the parents of seven children.  Jessie E. died some years ago.  She leaves six to mourn her departure, as follows: John T., of Carthage; Nancy I. Shields, of Rush Springs, I. T. [Indian Territory]  Rebecca E. Booz, of Disco; James M., of Ft. Green; Theodore L., of Nauvoo, and Louisa L. Rennois, of Alveretta, Ohio. She bore her illness patiently, manifesting a christian [sic] spirit and trusting in God at all times. Weary and tired of this life, Grandma has entered into a better land, where there is no pain, no death, no sorrow, there to meet the loved ones gone before.  A large crowd attended her funeral services, which were held at Majorville church Tuesday at 11 a. m., conducted by the Rev. H. M. Bloomer, who spoke words of comfort to the relatives and friends, after which the remains were taken to the family buring ground for interment.

*James E. Roberts and Nancy Shipley were married on January 21, 1847.  For additional information, see James E. Roberts.

Lucy Bullock has taken up her school near Powellton.

Will Day recently took a car of fine cattle to Chicago.

Belle Forster, of Basco, is the guest of Maggie Humphrey.

Most everyone in this vicinity is done cutting corn.

There will be but little wheat sown in this vicinity this fall.