Biography – James Harvey Langsford

James Harvey Langsford, one of the most prominent citizens of Mound township, was born June 20, 1817, near Bardstown, in Nelson county, Kentucky. His father, Nicholas Langsford, was a native of Plymouth, England, and came to this county when a boy, of some 16 years, and learned the trade of a tailor in one of the eastern states. Upon coming to Nelson county, he was soon after married to Sallie Tichinor, and never moved from that county. He died in 1838, and his wife followed a few years later. When 21 years of age, James H., settled in Adams county, in this state, where for some 20 years he cultivated a farm. He was married April 20, 1843, to Narcissa Dunlap, daughter of Andrew and Rachel (Malone) Dunlap, both natives of Kentucky, who came to Adams county, Illinois, in 1841, and both died there. From Adams county, Mr. and Mrs. Langsford came to McDonough county in August, 1859, and settled on section 26, in Mound township, which he now lives. He has since purchased more land and sold some. He occupies all the land that he owns and has the reputation of being one of the best farmers in the township. Mr. Langford’s mother was a descendant of John Oldman, who came over on the Mayflower. Although Mr. Langsford and his wife were childless, yet there are several young men and women now living, who, as children, have been the objects of their love and kindness. Samuel Ramage, now in California, grew to manhood under their care and protection. Mary Carnes, Narcissa Messick, and several others, have lived in the family for years. Mr. Langsford is an active Christian, and has frequently served as superintendent in a neighboring Sabbath school. Mrs. Langsford has two younger sisters, who were reared by Mr. and Mrs. Langsford from infancy. The younger one, Lizzie E., is still with them; the elder, Louisa J., is in Kansas. ^[1]Source: Source: The History of McDonough County, together with sketches of the towns, villages and townships, educational, civil, military and political history; portraits of prominent individuals, … Continue reading

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Letter written by A. J. Mann  (who later left Illinois and settled in Kingman, Kansas).  The Aunt mentioned in the letter is Narcissa “Nairy” Langsford, the sister of Lucretia Dunlap Tomlinson Collier.

“Bushnell, Ill. April 19th, 1893
J. W. Langsford

    “I cannot attend your Golden Wedding.  Gold has been your theme and will be untill you die.  Food for reflection.  Remember what the Blessed Savior said.  We that worships Gold.  The Golden God.  The Miser, the oppressor of the Poor.  Remember those poor people in Southern Kansas that you extorted 24 per cent interest and sold them out of house and home.  not satisfied with that turn your own kindred out of House and home without a dollar.  Remember how you treated Jane Rice poor orphan child under your protection.  Remember how many times you have taken the advantage of me.  Remember that there is not one of my family has any love for you and will not be there unless it is on their Aunt’s account. Remember I would not go to your Funeral let alone your Golden Wedding.  Ponder over this as long as you live and I know you will think of it when you come to die.”

                                                     A. J. Mann

Thank you Janet Cox for the information on this page.