(NOTE: Of the 992 men who served in the 86th Illinois, on January 1, 1937 there were only three still living and Emanuel Keller was the last 86th Illinois veteran living in the state of Illinois. The other two were Frank Beach, also of Co. K, who was living in Iowa, and Andrew G. Church, of Co. H was living in Nebraska. When Emanuel died in 1937, only Frank and Andrew were left.)
Corporal EMANUEL KELLER, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Emanuel Keller was the third of twelve children born to Flory Keller (of Germany) and Catherine Coleman. Emanuel was one of four of Flory's sons to enlist in the Princeville Company, Co. K of the 86th Illinois, during the Civil War. Emanuel was born on Oct. 25, 1838 in either Richland County or Ashland County, Ohio. Upon his death, Emanuel Keller's obituary stated that, "When he was less than three years of age, he moved with his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections were of a pioneer home in Stark County, where he resided until he was twelve years of age. This home was in the south of what is now Essex Township. He then moved with his parents to a farm in Princeville Township, which his father rented. Mr. Keller's school advantages were very limited as he was only able to attend school a few short months of his boyhood. He was the third eldest of a family of twelve children, and he, with his two elder brothers, Eli and Andrew, helped their father in the fields as soon as they were old enough and as the other children were younger, the burden of the work supporting such a large family fell upon the three eldest boys and their parents. Mr. Keller lived with his parents until he became twenty-one years of age, when he engaged in working out by the month, until the start of the Civil War. He watched the course of the war with patriotic interest" until August of 1862.
On August 7, 1862, Andrew and his next two youngest brothers, Emanuel and Edmund, were among the very first to volunteer for service in a company which was being raised in Princeville by a school teacher, by the name of John F. French, for service in the Union Army. Two days later, the next youngest brother, William H. Keller, who was either 18 or 19 years of age at most, lied about his age, claiming he was 23, and also volunteered for service in this company.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name KELLER, EMANUEL
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 25 Height 5' 5 Hair LIGHT
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity ASHLAND, ASHLAND CO, OH
Service Record
Joined When AUG 7, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks MUSTERED OUT AS CORPORAL WOUNDED MAY 10, 1864 AT BUZZARD ROOST GA
When John F. French had approximately 100 volunteers, he took his company into Peoria, Illinois, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, John F. French and 95 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry, John F. French as their Captain. The Kellers were mustered in as Privates.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon to the railroad depot. There they boarded the trains which took them to Camp Joe Holt, located in Jeffersonville, Indiana across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col Daniel McCook's Brigade. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of the 86th were engaged with Confederate troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th suffering their first casualties. There were many more to come.
After the Battle of Perryville, a Union victory, the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp. During the winter of 1862/63, over 300 men of the 86th became so sick that they either died or were discharged from the service by the government in hopes that they could return home and regain their health. One of these 300 men was Edmond Keller, who was discharged from the service on January 13, 1863.
During the spring and summer of 1863, the men of the 86th remained in the Nashville area doing garrison duty and going on short marches throughout central Tennessee. Then during the late summer and fall of 1863, the men of the 86th participated in the Campaign for Chattanooga. During this period, the men of the 86th were engaged with the enemy during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia. After the Confederates were finally driven out of the Chattanooga area for good, the men of the 86th went into winter camp across the river from Lee & Gordons Mills, just on the south of edge of the Chickamauga Battlefield in Georgia.
In the late winter of 1863/64, the Union Army in the Chattanooga area, under the command of Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, began the opening movements of what would become the Campaign for Atlanta. On May 10, 1864, during a skirmish at Buzzard Roost Gap, Georgia, just north of Resaca, Georgia, the men of Co. K of the 86th were engaged in a short skirmish with the enemy holding the Gap. During this skirmish, Pvt. Emanual Keller was struck in the right arm by a Confederate Minie Ball, the ball lodging in the arm above the right elbow. Emanuel was first sent to a field hospital in the rear, but eventually was sent to a Army Hospital in Jeffersonville, Indiana. By July of 1864, he had recovered and was sent back south to rejoin Co. K. He probably rejoined them somewhere around Atlanta, Georgia.
During May and June of 1864, the men of the 86th participated in the Battles of Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Dallas, Georgia; Big Shanty, Georgia and on June 22, 1864, the opening skirmishes on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. Then on June 27, 1864, what would prove to be the bloodiest day in the war for the 86th Illinois, the men of the 86th found themselves aligned in the center of Gen. Daniel McCook's Brigade for the assault on Cheatham Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. McCook's Brigade was assigned the duty of assaulting a section of the Confederate fortifications on the Kennesaw Line that would soon become known as "The Dead Angle."
During the 30 minute assault of Cheatham Hill, McCook's Brigade would suffer over 30% casualties, over 500 men. Of this 500, over 100 were from the 86th Illinois which made the assault with approximately 400 men. Company K, which probably made the assault with about 40 men present for duty, had one man killed outright and 7 others wounded. One of those wounded was Pvt. Andrew Keller, who was severely wounded in the Breast and Neck. He was immediately sent to a Field Hospital in the rear and soon to a Army Hospital in Chattanooga, but on July 3, 1864, 7 days after being wounded, Pvt. Andrew Keller died from his wounds and his earthly remains were laid to rest in a cemetery in Chattanooga.
After the Confederates withdrew from Kennesaw Mountain, the Campaign for Atlanta continued. The two remaining Keller boys, Emanuel and William marched on with the surviving members of the 86th. They were there when Atlanta finally fell, marched with Sherman to the Sea, were there when Sherman took Savannah, Georgia as an early Christmas present for President Abraham Lincoln, took part in the spring 1865 Carolina Campaign which included the Battles of Averysboro and Bentonville, North Carolina, which helped to bring an end to the terrible Civil War. Emanuel's obituary states that after the Battle of Averysboro "Mr. Keller's brave conduct won for him deserved promotion to the rank of Corporal." At the war came to a close, the 86th and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Washington, D.C where they marched down Pennsylvania Avenue on the 2nd day of the Grand Revue on May 24, 1865.
The surviving members of the 86th, approximately 400 men out of the 992 who had served in the regiment during the war, were mustered out on June 6, 1865 in Washington, D.C. and following a long train ride to Chicago, the men were discharged from the service and they returned to their respective homes in Central Illinois. Emanual and William were reunited with Edmund, but undoubtedly their thoughts often turned to the missing brother, Andrew, whose earthly remains, then as now, lie in Grave #11685 in Section E of the Chattanooga National Cemetery under a tombstone marked, "AND'W KELLER."
After he returned from the service, Emanuel "quietly resumed the life of a civilian and was employed at farm labor until the spring of 1866." Emanuel was married to Eunice A. Perkins on March 21, 1866. Eunice was born on ___________ __, 1845 in Vernon, Tolland County, Connecticut, the daughter of Calvin Perkins and Lucinda (House) Perkins.
Emanuel and Eunice first lived on a farm in Akron Township, then after three years there to a farm near Duncan, Illinois, then in 1872 to a farm that was located about 2 and a half miles northwest of Princeville, Illinois in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois, which he farmed for the next forty years. Three children were born to Emanuel and Eunice, before she passed away in 1875. They were;
1. Forrest E. Keller, born c. December 8, 1867/68/69 in Princeville, Illinois; Forrest was married to Elizabeth ___________ on __________ __, 18__; residing in Chicago, Illinois in 1937; At the time of the 1940 census, Forest is found residing in what is called Ward 27 of the City of Chicago, Cook County, Illinois;
Head Forrest E Keller M 71 Illinois
Wife Elizabeth Keller F 58 Illinois
Brother-in-law Robert Norman M 73 Illinois
Sister-in-law Anna Norman F 60 Illinois
Forrest E. Keller died on January 12, 1946 in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois at the age of 76. His death certificate gives his year of birth as 1869. His occupation is given as Barber and his mortal remains were laid in the Calvary Cemetery in Evanston, Cook County, Illinois on January 13, 1946.
2. Infant son Keller who was born and died in infancy in 1870; His mortal remains were laid in Div. B, Row 5 of the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois.
3. Morris W. Keller, born on July 11, 1873 in Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois; Morris W. Keller was married to Mary P. Heberling on February 26, 1896 in Stark County, Illinois; At the time of the 1910 census, Morris and his family are found residing in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Morris Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 37 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 10 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 7 Illinois
Daughter Leila Keller F 3 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 2 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 0 Illinois
Boarder John Uzudyke M 45 Illinois
At the time of the 1920 census, the Kellers are found in Amboy, Fulton County, Ohio;
Head Morris Keller M 46 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 47 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 17 Illinois
Daughter Zelah Keller F 14 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 8 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 10 Illinois
Son Harley Keller M 7 Illinois
At the time of his father's death in 1937, Morris is residing in Pioneer, Ohio. Morris W. Keller died on October 18, 1962 at __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
Eunice A. (Perkins) Keller died on ___________ __, 1875 in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
On January 31, 1878, Emanuel was married to Mrs. Marian (Fallow) Dart at Manchester, Connecticut. Marian was born in December of 1852 in Scotland, the daughter of John Fallow and Jennett (Shearer) Fallow. The Fallows came to America about 1854/55. At the time of the 1860 census, the John Fallow family is found in Manchester, Hartford County, Connecticut;
John Fallow M 44 Scotland
Jennett Fallow F 44 Scotland
James Fallow M 14 Scotland
Agnes Fallow F 12 Scotland
Marien Fallow F 8 Scotland
Gavin Fallow M 4 Connecticut
Jennett Fallow F 3 Connecticut
John Peterson M 35 Scotland
Saml Greasey M 50 Ireland
Marian's 1st husband was Addison Dart, who died shortly after their only son, Addison Archibald Dart, was born on December 29, 1872. Addison came west to Illinois with his mother and step-father in 1878. He continued to make his home with them until a young man.
Six more children were born to Emanuel and Marion. They are;
4. John F. Keller, born on ___________ __, 1879 in Princeville Township; died on ___________ __, 1882 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
5. Wilder Hazen Keller, born on March 1, 1883 in Princeville Township; married to Mary Tindall on September 24, 1909; At the time of the 1920 census, Wilder and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Wilder H Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary E Keller F 30 Illinois
Daughter Alice L Keller F 9 Illinois
Son Gene E Keller M 7 Illinois
Wilder died on May 23, 1940 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See his Find A Grave site for more information about his family.
6. Marcia Geneva Keller; born on August __, 1885 in Princeville Township; married to Earle Roscoe Weaver on June 10, 1908; At the time of the 1930 census, Geneva and are family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Earl Weaver M 44 Illinois
Wife Geneva Weaver F 43 Illinois
Daughter Marion Weaver F 19 Illinois
Son Winfield Weaver M 16 Illinois
Son Vernon Weaver M 14 Illinois
Daughter Earline Weaver F 12 Illinois
Father-in-law Emanuel Kellar M 91 Pennsylvania
Boarder Harold Johnson M 23 Illinois
Geneva died on Apr. 19, 1959 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
7. Riley Raymond Keller; born on either October 4th or April __ of 1888; Riley was married to Bessie Eyre on March 24, 1912; At the time of the 1920 census, Riley and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Riley Keller M 31 Illinois
Wife Bessie Keller F 30 Illinois
Son Preston Keller M 5 Illinois
Son Karl Keller M 2 Illinois
At the time of the 1940 census, the Kellers still reside in Princville Township;
Head Riley Kellar M 51 Illinois
Wife Bessie Kellar F 50 Illinois
Son Preston Kellar M 25 Illinois
Son Karl Kellar M 22 Illinois
Riley died on December 9, 1958 in __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the
Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #133337754.
8. Jennie Myrtle Keller; born on June 22, 1890; married to Auverne William "Dick" Delbridge, of Princeville, Illinois on March 19, 1913; At the time of the 1940 census, the Delbridge family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Awrene Delbridge M 51 Illinois
Wife Jennie Delbridge F 49 Illinois
Daughter Florence Delbridge F 24 Illinois
Son William Delbridge M 21 Illinois
Daughter Coral Delbridge F 18 Illinois
Son Robert Delbridge M 16 Illinois
Son Raymond Delbridge M 14 Illinois
Jennie died on Mar. 11, 1955 in Kewanee, Henry County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
9. Irene M. Keller; born on July 12, 1893; married to Charles Debord; At the time of the 1930 census, Irene and Charles are found in Toulon, Stark County, Illinois;
Head Charles I Debord M 39 Illinois
Wife Irene M Debord F 36 Illinois
Daughter Ruth A Debord F 16 Illinois
Daughter Helen M Debord F 6 Illinois
Daughter Ruby J Debord F 4 Illinois
Boarder Walter A Smith M 21 Illinois
Charles Ivan Debord died on October __, 1975 in Illinois, while Irene M. (Keller) Debord died on August __, 1888 in ___________, Illinois. Their mortal remains were laid in the _____________ Cemetery in ___________, ___________.
At the time of the 1880 census, the Keller family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Self Emanuel Keller M 41 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 28 Scotland
Son Forrest E Keller M 12 Illinois
Son Morris Keller M 6 Illinois
Son John Keller M 1 Illinois
Father Flora Keller M 76 Wales
Mother Catherine Keller F 66 Pennsylvania
Stepson Addison Dart M 7 Connecticut
Other John Stengley M 18 Iowa
In 1887, some of the men of the 86th Illinois organized and held a reunion for the old 86h in Peoria during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service in Peoria back in 1862. The reunion was attended by some 130 veterans of the 86th and their families and was such a hit, that it was decided that they would continue to hold them every year on the anniversary as long as the veterans could attend. Emanuel Keller was one of nine members of Co. K to attend that first reunion. The reunions continued to grow for several years as more and more veterans of the 86th were located and they continued to hold them through the year 1923, when it was tearfully decided by the 21 aged veterans of the 86th who were able to attend that last reunion, that they were getting too old and too few to continue them after that 1923 reunion.
Living in Peoria County, Emanuel was very active in these reunions, rarely missing any of them. Of the 37 reunions which were held, Emanuel Keller only missed four reunions. Emanual Keller was one of the 21 surviving members and the only member of Co. K to attend that 1923 reunion, when it was tearfully decided to discontinue the reunions. After all of these years, it had be to be a hard and sad decision to make.
The 1890 Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois contained the following biography on pages 949-951;
"EMANUEL KELLER. In this gentleman Princeville has not only one of its most practical and successful farmers, but also one of its most desirable citizens, who is a conspicuous figure in the social, religious and political life of this part of the county. As a veteran of the late war, in which he fought long and well, and as an enterprising citizen of Peoria County, we are pleased to present his biographical sketch and portrait on these pages.
The father of our subject, Flory Keller, was born in Germany, and when three years of age accompanied his father to this country, his mother having died in their native land. They settled in Pennsylvania, and Flory was put out to strangers, being reared on a farm and early becoming self-supporting. He lived in Little York, York County, Pa., and was there occupied in agricultural pursuits until he removed to Ohio, and was engaged in the same occupation among the pioneers of Richland and Stark Counties. He remained there until 1841, and then coming to this State, located in the timber in Essex Township, Stark County. He made his living by working for others there until 1853, and then coming to Princeville Township, rented land for some years. In 1856 he bought eighty acres, comprising the western part of the northeastern quarter of section 10, which he improved from wild prairie into a well-cultivated farm.
In the fall, of 1868 Mr. Keller sold that place, and going to Doniphan County, Kan., purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, where he located and was engaged in its improvement several years. He subsequently removed to Phillips County and bought a claim, and made his title clear; he finally disposed of it at an advance, and returned to Highland, Kan., and now lives retired with a son, he having reached the venerable age of eighty-five years. He is in every way a worthy man, and has won the esteem of all about him. He has always been a sturdy supporter of the Republican party. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Catherine Coleman, and she was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of Christopher Coleman, a farmer and likewise a native of the Keystone State. He was a pioneer of Ohio, and in 1841 removed to Illinois, dying at a ripe old age. The mother of our subject is still living at the age of seventy-five years. She belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is firm in the faith.
The following is recorded of the twelve children born to the parents of our subject: Eli was a member of the One Hundred and First Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and serving faithfully until he gave up his life for his country, in 1863, at Mission Creek; Andrew was a soldier in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and sacrificed his life in the cause, having been mortally wounded at Kenesaw Mountain, and dying two days afterward; Emanuel is the next in order of birth; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Lake, resides in Phillips County, Kan.; Edmond, a resident of Abilene, Kan., and County Coroner, enlisted in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry in 1862, and served until honorably discharged on account of physical disability; he subsequently re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-ninth, one hundred day regiment, and was afterward in Battery A, Second Illinois Light Artillery, until the close of the war; W. H., a resident of Highland, Kan., enlisted in 1862, in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close of the war; Levi resides in Highland, Kan.; Alfred is a farmer in Phillips County, Kan.; Ezra A. resides in Highland, Charles in Phillips County, and Samuel and David also in Highland, that State.
The subject of this notice was born in Richland County, Ohio, October 25, 1838, and was less than three years old when he accompanied his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections are of a pioneer home in Stark County, this State, where he lived until he was twelve years old. His school advantages were limited, as he attended school but a few months in his early boyhood. He remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-one, and then engaged in working out by the month until he entered the army. He watched the course of the war with patriotic ardor, and in August, 1862, volunteered for the defense of his country, enlisting in Company K, Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, which was mustered in at Peoria, and dispatched to Louisville, Ky.. arriving there October 8. Mr. Keller took part in the battle of Perrysville, Ky., and was in the various skirmishes around Nashville, the battles of Franklin and Brentwood, and with his regiment in its various encounters with the enemy in and around Murfreesboro. He engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, and was at Mission Ridge. From there he and his comrades went to Knoxville, thence returned to Chattanooga, and in the spring of 1864 accompanied Sherman on his Georgia campaign.
Our subject was wounded by a minie ball at the battle of Buzzard's Roost, the ball lodging in the right arm above the elbow, and on May 10 he was sent to the field hospital, and thence to Jeffersonville, Ind., where he remained until July. In that month he joined his regiment at the front, and fought well in the battles of Atlanta and Jonesboro, and then followed Forrest to Florence, Ala., and did good service in the Florence expedition. Returning to Atlanta the next day, he started on the famous march to the sea, and from Savannah went northward through the Carolinas and at the battle of Averysboro his brave conduct won him deserved promotion to the position of Corporal. He fought in the battle of Bentonville, and marched on to Raleigh with his regiment, proceeded to Washington by the way of Richmond, and took part in the Grand Review. He was mustered out as Corporal, and discharged at Chicago, June 27, 1865, having proved throughout his whole course in camp and on the field that he possessed true soldierly qualities. In the fight at Buzzard's Roost a spent ball hit him on the right shoulder, and another grazed his check and drew blood. In the second battle of Buzzard's Roost he was wounded badly in the arm. After his long and hard experience of a military life our subject returned to Princeville, and quietly resumed the life of a civilian, and was engaged in working out until the spring of 1866. He then rented a farm in Princeville, then in Akron Township, for three years, and subsequently farmed near Duncan for two years. In 1872 he located on his present place, and in 1885 purchased eighty acres on section 10, placing that tract under substantial improvement. He raises and sells cattle of fine grades, and has full-blooded Poland-China hogs, and good horses, using three teams to operate his farm.
Mr. Keller was first married in Princeville, March 21, 1866, to Miss Eunice A. Perkins, who was born in Connecticut and came here with her parents. Their wedded life was a happy one, and was brought to a close by her death in 1875. She was the mother of three children: Forest E., a tonsorial artist in Princeville; Morris W., at home with his father; and a child who died in infancy. Mr. Keller was married to his present estimable wife, formerly Miss Marian Fallow, in January, 1878, the wedding ceremony taking place in Manchester. Conn. Mrs. Keller was born in Scotland, and came to America when a child with her father, John Fallow. She was reared in Connecticut, and when a young lady learned the manufacture of silk in the factories. She was married in Manchester to Addison A. Dart, and had one child by that marriage, Addison A. Dart, who lives with her and our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Keller have four children living: Wilder H., Geneva, Riley and an infant named Jennie. Their son John died at the age of three years.
Mr. Keller is in every way worthy of the high estimation set upon his value by the community, as a noble, true-hearted, loyal Christian gentleman, in whom his fellow-citizens may place implicit trust. Forethought, sagacity and clear discernment, combined with a due sense of honor and honesty, are prominent traits of his character, and by these he has placed himself on a sound financial basis among the substantial citizens of the township and county. He is a member of the Princeville Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is at present Trustee, and the sincerity of his faith is betokened by his work. He is prominent in local politics, a stalwart among the Republicans, and has been Delegate to county conventions. He was School Director for three terms, and is at present Commissioner of Highways, serving his fourth term in this office. He is identified with the Princeville I. O. O. F. as Past Noble. He is an important member of the Frenche Post, G. A. R., of which he is Past Commander, and he was present at the St. Louis and Columbus encampments."
Emanuel and Marian Keller resided on the Keller farm until about 1900, at which time they moved with their family to a home located just north and east of the Princeville Township Cemetery. At the time of the 1900 census, the Keller family is found in the Village of Princeville;
Head Emanuel Keller M 62 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 48 Scotland
Son Wilder H Keller M 16 Illinois
Daughter Geneva J Keller F 15 Illinois
Son Riley R Keller M 12 Illinois
Daughter Jennie M Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Irene M Keller F 7 Illinois
Servant Andrew J Mitts M 41 Kentucky
At the time of the 1920 census, Emanuel Keller is found residing in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois with his daughter
Head Emanuel Keller M 81 Ohio
Wife Marian Keller F 68 Scotland
Daughter Geneva Weaver F 35 Illinois
Granddaughter Marian Weaver F 10 Illinois
Grandson Winfield Weaver M 7 Illinois
Grandson Vernon Weaver M 5 Illinois
Granddaughter Earline Weaver F 4 Illinois
Mrs. Marian Keller passed away on February 3, 1923 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Princeville Township Cemetery. Emanuel's health continued to remain good through the years. He continued to attended all local Memorial Day and Armistace Day activities in Princeville through the years and he watched as all of his pards from Co. K passed away. At the time of the 1930 census, Emanuel is found residing with his daughter and son-in-law, Geneva and Earle Weaver in Princeville Township.
Emanuel's health remained good until near the end and was up and around until Thursday, April 15, 1937, at which time he became ill. Emanuel was moved to the Seven Oaks Sanitarium on Saturday, April 17, 1937 and he seemed to improve on Sunday. His obituary states that "his frail strength was unable to withstand the ordeal, and like the good soldier that he was, he answered the call of 'taps' and passed on to his well earned reward, after almost a century of living, over eight-three years of which time were spent in the Princeville community." At the time of his passing, Corporal Emanuel Keller was the last Civil War veteran living in Princeville, was the oldest resident of the Village and was the next to last living veteran of the Princeville Company, Co. K, Pvt. Frank Beach, of Dumont, Iowa, being the last. The earthly remains of Corporal Emanuel Keller were laid to rest beside those of his wife of 45 years, Marion, in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would love to hear from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Corporal Emanuel Keller and the Keller family. Baxter would also like to see more copies of pictures of Emanuel Keller added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
Corporal EMANUEL KELLER, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Emanuel Keller was the third of twelve children born to Flory Keller (of Germany) and Catherine Coleman. Emanuel was one of four of Flory's sons to enlist in the Princeville Company, Co. K of the 86th Illinois, during the Civil War. Emanuel was born on Oct. 25, 1838 in either Richland County or Ashland County, Ohio. Upon his death, Emanuel Keller's obituary stated that, "When he was less than three years of age, he moved with his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections were of a pioneer home in Stark County, where he resided until he was twelve years of age. This home was in the south of what is now Essex Township. He then moved with his parents to a farm in Princeville Township, which his father rented. Mr. Keller's school advantages were very limited as he was only able to attend school a few short months of his boyhood. He was the third eldest of a family of twelve children, and he, with his two elder brothers, Eli and Andrew, helped their father in the fields as soon as they were old enough and as the other children were younger, the burden of the work supporting such a large family fell upon the three eldest boys and their parents. Mr. Keller lived with his parents until he became twenty-one years of age, when he engaged in working out by the month, until the start of the Civil War. He watched the course of the war with patriotic interest" until August of 1862.
On August 7, 1862, Andrew and his next two youngest brothers, Emanuel and Edmund, were among the very first to volunteer for service in a company which was being raised in Princeville by a school teacher, by the name of John F. French, for service in the Union Army. Two days later, the next youngest brother, William H. Keller, who was either 18 or 19 years of age at most, lied about his age, claiming he was 23, and also volunteered for service in this company.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name KELLER, EMANUEL
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 25 Height 5' 5 Hair LIGHT
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity ASHLAND, ASHLAND CO, OH
Service Record
Joined When AUG 7, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks MUSTERED OUT AS CORPORAL WOUNDED MAY 10, 1864 AT BUZZARD ROOST GA
When John F. French had approximately 100 volunteers, he took his company into Peoria, Illinois, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, John F. French and 95 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry, John F. French as their Captain. The Kellers were mustered in as Privates.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon to the railroad depot. There they boarded the trains which took them to Camp Joe Holt, located in Jeffersonville, Indiana across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col Daniel McCook's Brigade. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of the 86th were engaged with Confederate troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th suffering their first casualties. There were many more to come.
After the Battle of Perryville, a Union victory, the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp. During the winter of 1862/63, over 300 men of the 86th became so sick that they either died or were discharged from the service by the government in hopes that they could return home and regain their health. One of these 300 men was Edmond Keller, who was discharged from the service on January 13, 1863.
During the spring and summer of 1863, the men of the 86th remained in the Nashville area doing garrison duty and going on short marches throughout central Tennessee. Then during the late summer and fall of 1863, the men of the 86th participated in the Campaign for Chattanooga. During this period, the men of the 86th were engaged with the enemy during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia. After the Confederates were finally driven out of the Chattanooga area for good, the men of the 86th went into winter camp across the river from Lee & Gordons Mills, just on the south of edge of the Chickamauga Battlefield in Georgia.
In the late winter of 1863/64, the Union Army in the Chattanooga area, under the command of Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, began the opening movements of what would become the Campaign for Atlanta. On May 10, 1864, during a skirmish at Buzzard Roost Gap, Georgia, just north of Resaca, Georgia, the men of Co. K of the 86th were engaged in a short skirmish with the enemy holding the Gap. During this skirmish, Pvt. Emanual Keller was struck in the right arm by a Confederate Minie Ball, the ball lodging in the arm above the right elbow. Emanuel was first sent to a field hospital in the rear, but eventually was sent to a Army Hospital in Jeffersonville, Indiana. By July of 1864, he had recovered and was sent back south to rejoin Co. K. He probably rejoined them somewhere around Atlanta, Georgia.
During May and June of 1864, the men of the 86th participated in the Battles of Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Dallas, Georgia; Big Shanty, Georgia and on June 22, 1864, the opening skirmishes on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. Then on June 27, 1864, what would prove to be the bloodiest day in the war for the 86th Illinois, the men of the 86th found themselves aligned in the center of Gen. Daniel McCook's Brigade for the assault on Cheatham Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. McCook's Brigade was assigned the duty of assaulting a section of the Confederate fortifications on the Kennesaw Line that would soon become known as "The Dead Angle."
During the 30 minute assault of Cheatham Hill, McCook's Brigade would suffer over 30% casualties, over 500 men. Of this 500, over 100 were from the 86th Illinois which made the assault with approximately 400 men. Company K, which probably made the assault with about 40 men present for duty, had one man killed outright and 7 others wounded. One of those wounded was Pvt. Andrew Keller, who was severely wounded in the Breast and Neck. He was immediately sent to a Field Hospital in the rear and soon to a Army Hospital in Chattanooga, but on July 3, 1864, 7 days after being wounded, Pvt. Andrew Keller died from his wounds and his earthly remains were laid to rest in a cemetery in Chattanooga.
After the Confederates withdrew from Kennesaw Mountain, the Campaign for Atlanta continued. The two remaining Keller boys, Emanuel and William marched on with the surviving members of the 86th. They were there when Atlanta finally fell, marched with Sherman to the Sea, were there when Sherman took Savannah, Georgia as an early Christmas present for President Abraham Lincoln, took part in the spring 1865 Carolina Campaign which included the Battles of Averysboro and Bentonville, North Carolina, which helped to bring an end to the terrible Civil War. Emanuel's obituary states that after the Battle of Averysboro "Mr. Keller's brave conduct won for him deserved promotion to the rank of Corporal." At the war came to a close, the 86th and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Washington, D.C where they marched down Pennsylvania Avenue on the 2nd day of the Grand Revue on May 24, 1865.
The surviving members of the 86th, approximately 400 men out of the 992 who had served in the regiment during the war, were mustered out on June 6, 1865 in Washington, D.C. and following a long train ride to Chicago, the men were discharged from the service and they returned to their respective homes in Central Illinois. Emanual and William were reunited with Edmund, but undoubtedly their thoughts often turned to the missing brother, Andrew, whose earthly remains, then as now, lie in Grave #11685 in Section E of the Chattanooga National Cemetery under a tombstone marked, "AND'W KELLER."
After he returned from the service, Emanuel "quietly resumed the life of a civilian and was employed at farm labor until the spring of 1866." Emanuel was married to Eunice A. Perkins on March 21, 1866. Eunice was born on ___________ __, 1845 in Vernon, Tolland County, Connecticut, the daughter of Calvin Perkins and Lucinda (House) Perkins.
Emanuel and Eunice first lived on a farm in Akron Township, then after three years there to a farm near Duncan, Illinois, then in 1872 to a farm that was located about 2 and a half miles northwest of Princeville, Illinois in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois, which he farmed for the next forty years. Three children were born to Emanuel and Eunice, before she passed away in 1875. They were;
1. Forrest E. Keller, born c. December 8, 1867/68/69 in Princeville, Illinois; Forrest was married to Elizabeth ___________ on __________ __, 18__; residing in Chicago, Illinois in 1937; At the time of the 1940 census, Forest is found residing in what is called Ward 27 of the City of Chicago, Cook County, Illinois;
Head Forrest E Keller M 71 Illinois
Wife Elizabeth Keller F 58 Illinois
Brother-in-law Robert Norman M 73 Illinois
Sister-in-law Anna Norman F 60 Illinois
Forrest E. Keller died on January 12, 1946 in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois at the age of 76. His death certificate gives his year of birth as 1869. His occupation is given as Barber and his mortal remains were laid in the Calvary Cemetery in Evanston, Cook County, Illinois on January 13, 1946.
2. Infant son Keller who was born and died in infancy in 1870; His mortal remains were laid in Div. B, Row 5 of the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois.
3. Morris W. Keller, born on July 11, 1873 in Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois; Morris W. Keller was married to Mary P. Heberling on February 26, 1896 in Stark County, Illinois; At the time of the 1910 census, Morris and his family are found residing in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Morris Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 37 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 10 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 7 Illinois
Daughter Leila Keller F 3 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 2 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 0 Illinois
Boarder John Uzudyke M 45 Illinois
At the time of the 1920 census, the Kellers are found in Amboy, Fulton County, Ohio;
Head Morris Keller M 46 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 47 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 17 Illinois
Daughter Zelah Keller F 14 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 8 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 10 Illinois
Son Harley Keller M 7 Illinois
At the time of his father's death in 1937, Morris is residing in Pioneer, Ohio. Morris W. Keller died on October 18, 1962 at __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
Eunice A. (Perkins) Keller died on ___________ __, 1875 in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
On January 31, 1878, Emanuel was married to Mrs. Marian (Fallow) Dart at Manchester, Connecticut. Marian was born in December of 1852 in Scotland, the daughter of John Fallow and Jennett (Shearer) Fallow. The Fallows came to America about 1854/55. At the time of the 1860 census, the John Fallow family is found in Manchester, Hartford County, Connecticut;
John Fallow M 44 Scotland
Jennett Fallow F 44 Scotland
James Fallow M 14 Scotland
Agnes Fallow F 12 Scotland
Marien Fallow F 8 Scotland
Gavin Fallow M 4 Connecticut
Jennett Fallow F 3 Connecticut
John Peterson M 35 Scotland
Saml Greasey M 50 Ireland
Marian's 1st husband was Addison Dart, who died shortly after their only son, Addison Archibald Dart, was born on December 29, 1872. Addison came west to Illinois with his mother and step-father in 1878. He continued to make his home with them until a young man.
Six more children were born to Emanuel and Marion. They are;
4. John F. Keller, born on ___________ __, 1879 in Princeville Township; died on ___________ __, 1882 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
5. Wilder Hazen Keller, born on March 1, 1883 in Princeville Township; married to Mary Tindall on September 24, 1909; At the time of the 1920 census, Wilder and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Wilder H Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary E Keller F 30 Illinois
Daughter Alice L Keller F 9 Illinois
Son Gene E Keller M 7 Illinois
Wilder died on May 23, 1940 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See his Find A Grave site for more information about his family.
6. Marcia Geneva Keller; born on August __, 1885 in Princeville Township; married to Earle Roscoe Weaver on June 10, 1908; At the time of the 1930 census, Geneva and are family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Earl Weaver M 44 Illinois
Wife Geneva Weaver F 43 Illinois
Daughter Marion Weaver F 19 Illinois
Son Winfield Weaver M 16 Illinois
Son Vernon Weaver M 14 Illinois
Daughter Earline Weaver F 12 Illinois
Father-in-law Emanuel Kellar M 91 Pennsylvania
Boarder Harold Johnson M 23 Illinois
Geneva died on Apr. 19, 1959 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
7. Riley Raymond Keller; born on either October 4th or April __ of 1888; Riley was married to Bessie Eyre on March 24, 1912; At the time of the 1920 census, Riley and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Riley Keller M 31 Illinois
Wife Bessie Keller F 30 Illinois
Son Preston Keller M 5 Illinois
Son Karl Keller M 2 Illinois
At the time of the 1940 census, the Kellers still reside in Princville Township;
Head Riley Kellar M 51 Illinois
Wife Bessie Kellar F 50 Illinois
Son Preston Kellar M 25 Illinois
Son Karl Kellar M 22 Illinois
Riley died on December 9, 1958 in __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the
Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #133337754.
8. Jennie Myrtle Keller; born on June 22, 1890; married to Auverne William "Dick" Delbridge, of Princeville, Illinois on March 19, 1913; At the time of the 1940 census, the Delbridge family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Awrene Delbridge M 51 Illinois
Wife Jennie Delbridge F 49 Illinois
Daughter Florence Delbridge F 24 Illinois
Son William Delbridge M 21 Illinois
Daughter Coral Delbridge F 18 Illinois
Son Robert Delbridge M 16 Illinois
Son Raymond Delbridge M 14 Illinois
Jennie died on Mar. 11, 1955 in Kewanee, Henry County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
9. Irene M. Keller; born on July 12, 1893; married to Charles Debord; At the time of the 1930 census, Irene and Charles are found in Toulon, Stark County, Illinois;
Head Charles I Debord M 39 Illinois
Wife Irene M Debord F 36 Illinois
Daughter Ruth A Debord F 16 Illinois
Daughter Helen M Debord F 6 Illinois
Daughter Ruby J Debord F 4 Illinois
Boarder Walter A Smith M 21 Illinois
Charles Ivan Debord died on October __, 1975 in Illinois, while Irene M. (Keller) Debord died on August __, 1888 in ___________, Illinois. Their mortal remains were laid in the _____________ Cemetery in ___________, ___________.
At the time of the 1880 census, the Keller family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Self Emanuel Keller M 41 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 28 Scotland
Son Forrest E Keller M 12 Illinois
Son Morris Keller M 6 Illinois
Son John Keller M 1 Illinois
Father Flora Keller M 76 Wales
Mother Catherine Keller F 66 Pennsylvania
Stepson Addison Dart M 7 Connecticut
Other John Stengley M 18 Iowa
In 1887, some of the men of the 86th Illinois organized and held a reunion for the old 86h in Peoria during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service in Peoria back in 1862. The reunion was attended by some 130 veterans of the 86th and their families and was such a hit, that it was decided that they would continue to hold them every year on the anniversary as long as the veterans could attend. Emanuel Keller was one of nine members of Co. K to attend that first reunion. The reunions continued to grow for several years as more and more veterans of the 86th were located and they continued to hold them through the year 1923, when it was tearfully decided by the 21 aged veterans of the 86th who were able to attend that last reunion, that they were getting too old and too few to continue them after that 1923 reunion.
Living in Peoria County, Emanuel was very active in these reunions, rarely missing any of them. Of the 37 reunions which were held, Emanuel Keller only missed four reunions. Emanual Keller was one of the 21 surviving members and the only member of Co. K to attend that 1923 reunion, when it was tearfully decided to discontinue the reunions. After all of these years, it had be to be a hard and sad decision to make.
The 1890 Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois contained the following biography on pages 949-951;
"EMANUEL KELLER. In this gentleman Princeville has not only one of its most practical and successful farmers, but also one of its most desirable citizens, who is a conspicuous figure in the social, religious and political life of this part of the county. As a veteran of the late war, in which he fought long and well, and as an enterprising citizen of Peoria County, we are pleased to present his biographical sketch and portrait on these pages.
The father of our subject, Flory Keller, was born in Germany, and when three years of age accompanied his father to this country, his mother having died in their native land. They settled in Pennsylvania, and Flory was put out to strangers, being reared on a farm and early becoming self-supporting. He lived in Little York, York County, Pa., and was there occupied in agricultural pursuits until he removed to Ohio, and was engaged in the same occupation among the pioneers of Richland and Stark Counties. He remained there until 1841, and then coming to this State, located in the timber in Essex Township, Stark County. He made his living by working for others there until 1853, and then coming to Princeville Township, rented land for some years. In 1856 he bought eighty acres, comprising the western part of the northeastern quarter of section 10, which he improved from wild prairie into a well-cultivated farm.
In the fall, of 1868 Mr. Keller sold that place, and going to Doniphan County, Kan., purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, where he located and was engaged in its improvement several years. He subsequently removed to Phillips County and bought a claim, and made his title clear; he finally disposed of it at an advance, and returned to Highland, Kan., and now lives retired with a son, he having reached the venerable age of eighty-five years. He is in every way a worthy man, and has won the esteem of all about him. He has always been a sturdy supporter of the Republican party. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Catherine Coleman, and she was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of Christopher Coleman, a farmer and likewise a native of the Keystone State. He was a pioneer of Ohio, and in 1841 removed to Illinois, dying at a ripe old age. The mother of our subject is still living at the age of seventy-five years. She belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is firm in the faith.
The following is recorded of the twelve children born to the parents of our subject: Eli was a member of the One Hundred and First Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and serving faithfully until he gave up his life for his country, in 1863, at Mission Creek; Andrew was a soldier in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and sacrificed his life in the cause, having been mortally wounded at Kenesaw Mountain, and dying two days afterward; Emanuel is the next in order of birth; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Lake, resides in Phillips County, Kan.; Edmond, a resident of Abilene, Kan., and County Coroner, enlisted in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry in 1862, and served until honorably discharged on account of physical disability; he subsequently re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-ninth, one hundred day regiment, and was afterward in Battery A, Second Illinois Light Artillery, until the close of the war; W. H., a resident of Highland, Kan., enlisted in 1862, in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close of the war; Levi resides in Highland, Kan.; Alfred is a farmer in Phillips County, Kan.; Ezra A. resides in Highland, Charles in Phillips County, and Samuel and David also in Highland, that State.
The subject of this notice was born in Richland County, Ohio, October 25, 1838, and was less than three years old when he accompanied his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections are of a pioneer home in Stark County, this State, where he lived until he was twelve years old. His school advantages were limited, as he attended school but a few months in his early boyhood. He remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-one, and then engaged in working out by the month until he entered the army. He watched the course of the war with patriotic ardor, and in August, 1862, volunteered for the defense of his country, enlisting in Company K, Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, which was mustered in at Peoria, and dispatched to Louisville, Ky.. arriving there October 8. Mr. Keller took part in the battle of Perrysville, Ky., and was in the various skirmishes around Nashville, the battles of Franklin and Brentwood, and with his regiment in its various encounters with the enemy in and around Murfreesboro. He engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, and was at Mission Ridge. From there he and his comrades went to Knoxville, thence returned to Chattanooga, and in the spring of 1864 accompanied Sherman on his Georgia campaign.
Our subject was wounded by a minie ball at the battle of Buzzard's Roost, the ball lodging in the right arm above the elbow, and on May 10 he was sent to the field hospital, and thence to Jeffersonville, Ind., where he remained until July. In that month he joined his regiment at the front, and fought well in the battles of Atlanta and Jonesboro, and then followed Forrest to Florence, Ala., and did good service in the Florence expedition. Returning to Atlanta the next day, he started on the famous march to the sea, and from Savannah went northward through the Carolinas and at the battle of Averysboro his brave conduct won him deserved promotion to the position of Corporal. He fought in the battle of Bentonville, and marched on to Raleigh with his regiment, proceeded to Washington by the way of Richmond, and took part in the Grand Review. He was mustered out as Corporal, and discharged at Chicago, June 27, 1865, having proved throughout his whole course in camp and on the field that he possessed true soldierly qualities. In the fight at Buzzard's Roost a spent ball hit him on the right shoulder, and another grazed his check and drew blood. In the second battle of Buzzard's Roost he was wounded badly in the arm. After his long and hard experience of a military life our subject returned to Princeville, and quietly resumed the life of a civilian, and was engaged in working out until the spring of 1866. He then rented a farm in Princeville, then in Akron Township, for three years, and subsequently farmed near Duncan for two years. In 1872 he located on his present place, and in 1885 purchased eighty acres on section 10, placing that tract under substantial improvement. He raises and sells cattle of fine grades, and has full-blooded Poland-China hogs, and good horses, using three teams to operate his farm.
Mr. Keller was first married in Princeville, March 21, 1866, to Miss Eunice A. Perkins, who was born in Connecticut and came here with her parents. Their wedded life was a happy one, and was brought to a close by her death in 1875. She was the mother of three children: Forest E., a tonsorial artist in Princeville; Morris W., at home with his father; and a child who died in infancy. Mr. Keller was married to his present estimable wife, formerly Miss Marian Fallow, in January, 1878, the wedding ceremony taking place in Manchester. Conn. Mrs. Keller was born in Scotland, and came to America when a child with her father, John Fallow. She was reared in Connecticut, and when a young lady learned the manufacture of silk in the factories. She was married in Manchester to Addison A. Dart, and had one child by that marriage, Addison A. Dart, who lives with her and our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Keller have four children living: Wilder H., Geneva, Riley and an infant named Jennie. Their son John died at the age of three years.
Mr. Keller is in every way worthy of the high estimation set upon his value by the community, as a noble, true-hearted, loyal Christian gentleman, in whom his fellow-citizens may place implicit trust. Forethought, sagacity and clear discernment, combined with a due sense of honor and honesty, are prominent traits of his character, and by these he has placed himself on a sound financial basis among the substantial citizens of the township and county. He is a member of the Princeville Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is at present Trustee, and the sincerity of his faith is betokened by his work. He is prominent in local politics, a stalwart among the Republicans, and has been Delegate to county conventions. He was School Director for three terms, and is at present Commissioner of Highways, serving his fourth term in this office. He is identified with the Princeville I. O. O. F. as Past Noble. He is an important member of the Frenche Post, G. A. R., of which he is Past Commander, and he was present at the St. Louis and Columbus encampments."
Emanuel and Marian Keller resided on the Keller farm until about 1900, at which time they moved with their family to a home located just north and east of the Princeville Township Cemetery. At the time of the 1900 census, the Keller family is found in the Village of Princeville;
Head Emanuel Keller M 62 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 48 Scotland
Son Wilder H Keller M 16 Illinois
Daughter Geneva J Keller F 15 Illinois
Son Riley R Keller M 12 Illinois
Daughter Jennie M Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Irene M Keller F 7 Illinois
Servant Andrew J Mitts M 41 Kentucky
At the time of the 1920 census, Emanuel Keller is found residing in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois with his daughter
Head Emanuel Keller M 81 Ohio
Wife Marian Keller F 68 Scotland
Daughter Geneva Weaver F 35 Illinois
Granddaughter Marian Weaver F 10 Illinois
Grandson Winfield Weaver M 7 Illinois
Grandson Vernon Weaver M 5 Illinois
Granddaughter Earline Weaver F 4 Illinois
Mrs. Marian Keller passed away on February 3, 1923 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Princeville Township Cemetery. Emanuel's health continued to remain good through the years. He continued to attended all local Memorial Day and Armistace Day activities in Princeville through the years and he watched as all of his pards from Co. K passed away. At the time of the 1930 census, Emanuel is found residing with his daughter and son-in-law, Geneva and Earle Weaver in Princeville Township.
Emanuel's health remained good until near the end and was up and around until Thursday, April 15, 1937, at which time he became ill. Emanuel was moved to the Seven Oaks Sanitarium on Saturday, April 17, 1937 and he seemed to improve on Sunday. His obituary states that "his frail strength was unable to withstand the ordeal, and like the good soldier that he was, he answered the call of 'taps' and passed on to his well earned reward, after almost a century of living, over eight-three years of which time were spent in the Princeville community." At the time of his passing, Corporal Emanuel Keller was the last Civil War veteran living in Princeville, was the oldest resident of the Village and was the next to last living veteran of the Princeville Company, Co. K, Pvt. Frank Beach, of Dumont, Iowa, being the last. The earthly remains of Corporal Emanuel Keller were laid to rest beside those of his wife of 45 years, Marion, in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would love to hear from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Corporal Emanuel Keller and the Keller family. Baxter would also like to see more copies of pictures of Emanuel Keller added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
(NOTE: Of the 992 men who served in the 86th Illinois, on January 1, 1937 there were only three still living and Emanuel Keller was the last 86th Illinois veteran living in the state of Illinois. The other two were Frank Beach, also of Co. K, who was living in Iowa, and Andrew G. Church, of Co. H was living in Nebraska. When Emanuel died in 1937, only Frank and Andrew were left.)
Corporal EMANUEL KELLER, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Emanuel Keller was the third of twelve children born to Flory Keller (of Germany) and Catherine Coleman. Emanuel was one of four of Flory's sons to enlist in the Princeville Company, Co. K of the 86th Illinois, during the Civil War. Emanuel was born on Oct. 25, 1838 in either Richland County or Ashland County, Ohio. Upon his death, Emanuel Keller's obituary stated that, "When he was less than three years of age, he moved with his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections were of a pioneer home in Stark County, where he resided until he was twelve years of age. This home was in the south of what is now Essex Township. He then moved with his parents to a farm in Princeville Township, which his father rented. Mr. Keller's school advantages were very limited as he was only able to attend school a few short months of his boyhood. He was the third eldest of a family of twelve children, and he, with his two elder brothers, Eli and Andrew, helped their father in the fields as soon as they were old enough and as the other children were younger, the burden of the work supporting such a large family fell upon the three eldest boys and their parents. Mr. Keller lived with his parents until he became twenty-one years of age, when he engaged in working out by the month, until the start of the Civil War. He watched the course of the war with patriotic interest" until August of 1862.
On August 7, 1862, Andrew and his next two youngest brothers, Emanuel and Edmund, were among the very first to volunteer for service in a company which was being raised in Princeville by a school teacher, by the name of John F. French, for service in the Union Army. Two days later, the next youngest brother, William H. Keller, who was either 18 or 19 years of age at most, lied about his age, claiming he was 23, and also volunteered for service in this company.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name KELLER, EMANUEL
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 25 Height 5' 5 Hair LIGHT
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity ASHLAND, ASHLAND CO, OH
Service Record
Joined When AUG 7, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks MUSTERED OUT AS CORPORAL WOUNDED MAY 10, 1864 AT BUZZARD ROOST GA
When John F. French had approximately 100 volunteers, he took his company into Peoria, Illinois, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, John F. French and 95 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry, John F. French as their Captain. The Kellers were mustered in as Privates.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon to the railroad depot. There they boarded the trains which took them to Camp Joe Holt, located in Jeffersonville, Indiana across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col Daniel McCook's Brigade. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of the 86th were engaged with Confederate troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th suffering their first casualties. There were many more to come.
After the Battle of Perryville, a Union victory, the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp. During the winter of 1862/63, over 300 men of the 86th became so sick that they either died or were discharged from the service by the government in hopes that they could return home and regain their health. One of these 300 men was Edmond Keller, who was discharged from the service on January 13, 1863.
During the spring and summer of 1863, the men of the 86th remained in the Nashville area doing garrison duty and going on short marches throughout central Tennessee. Then during the late summer and fall of 1863, the men of the 86th participated in the Campaign for Chattanooga. During this period, the men of the 86th were engaged with the enemy during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia. After the Confederates were finally driven out of the Chattanooga area for good, the men of the 86th went into winter camp across the river from Lee & Gordons Mills, just on the south of edge of the Chickamauga Battlefield in Georgia.
In the late winter of 1863/64, the Union Army in the Chattanooga area, under the command of Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, began the opening movements of what would become the Campaign for Atlanta. On May 10, 1864, during a skirmish at Buzzard Roost Gap, Georgia, just north of Resaca, Georgia, the men of Co. K of the 86th were engaged in a short skirmish with the enemy holding the Gap. During this skirmish, Pvt. Emanual Keller was struck in the right arm by a Confederate Minie Ball, the ball lodging in the arm above the right elbow. Emanuel was first sent to a field hospital in the rear, but eventually was sent to a Army Hospital in Jeffersonville, Indiana. By July of 1864, he had recovered and was sent back south to rejoin Co. K. He probably rejoined them somewhere around Atlanta, Georgia.
During May and June of 1864, the men of the 86th participated in the Battles of Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Dallas, Georgia; Big Shanty, Georgia and on June 22, 1864, the opening skirmishes on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. Then on June 27, 1864, what would prove to be the bloodiest day in the war for the 86th Illinois, the men of the 86th found themselves aligned in the center of Gen. Daniel McCook's Brigade for the assault on Cheatham Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. McCook's Brigade was assigned the duty of assaulting a section of the Confederate fortifications on the Kennesaw Line that would soon become known as "The Dead Angle."
During the 30 minute assault of Cheatham Hill, McCook's Brigade would suffer over 30% casualties, over 500 men. Of this 500, over 100 were from the 86th Illinois which made the assault with approximately 400 men. Company K, which probably made the assault with about 40 men present for duty, had one man killed outright and 7 others wounded. One of those wounded was Pvt. Andrew Keller, who was severely wounded in the Breast and Neck. He was immediately sent to a Field Hospital in the rear and soon to a Army Hospital in Chattanooga, but on July 3, 1864, 7 days after being wounded, Pvt. Andrew Keller died from his wounds and his earthly remains were laid to rest in a cemetery in Chattanooga.
After the Confederates withdrew from Kennesaw Mountain, the Campaign for Atlanta continued. The two remaining Keller boys, Emanuel and William marched on with the surviving members of the 86th. They were there when Atlanta finally fell, marched with Sherman to the Sea, were there when Sherman took Savannah, Georgia as an early Christmas present for President Abraham Lincoln, took part in the spring 1865 Carolina Campaign which included the Battles of Averysboro and Bentonville, North Carolina, which helped to bring an end to the terrible Civil War. Emanuel's obituary states that after the Battle of Averysboro "Mr. Keller's brave conduct won for him deserved promotion to the rank of Corporal." At the war came to a close, the 86th and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Washington, D.C where they marched down Pennsylvania Avenue on the 2nd day of the Grand Revue on May 24, 1865.
The surviving members of the 86th, approximately 400 men out of the 992 who had served in the regiment during the war, were mustered out on June 6, 1865 in Washington, D.C. and following a long train ride to Chicago, the men were discharged from the service and they returned to their respective homes in Central Illinois. Emanual and William were reunited with Edmund, but undoubtedly their thoughts often turned to the missing brother, Andrew, whose earthly remains, then as now, lie in Grave #11685 in Section E of the Chattanooga National Cemetery under a tombstone marked, "AND'W KELLER."
After he returned from the service, Emanuel "quietly resumed the life of a civilian and was employed at farm labor until the spring of 1866." Emanuel was married to Eunice A. Perkins on March 21, 1866. Eunice was born on ___________ __, 1845 in Vernon, Tolland County, Connecticut, the daughter of Calvin Perkins and Lucinda (House) Perkins.
Emanuel and Eunice first lived on a farm in Akron Township, then after three years there to a farm near Duncan, Illinois, then in 1872 to a farm that was located about 2 and a half miles northwest of Princeville, Illinois in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois, which he farmed for the next forty years. Three children were born to Emanuel and Eunice, before she passed away in 1875. They were;
1. Forrest E. Keller, born c. December 8, 1867/68/69 in Princeville, Illinois; Forrest was married to Elizabeth ___________ on __________ __, 18__; residing in Chicago, Illinois in 1937; At the time of the 1940 census, Forest is found residing in what is called Ward 27 of the City of Chicago, Cook County, Illinois;
Head Forrest E Keller M 71 Illinois
Wife Elizabeth Keller F 58 Illinois
Brother-in-law Robert Norman M 73 Illinois
Sister-in-law Anna Norman F 60 Illinois
Forrest E. Keller died on January 12, 1946 in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois at the age of 76. His death certificate gives his year of birth as 1869. His occupation is given as Barber and his mortal remains were laid in the Calvary Cemetery in Evanston, Cook County, Illinois on January 13, 1946.
2. Infant son Keller who was born and died in infancy in 1870; His mortal remains were laid in Div. B, Row 5 of the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois.
3. Morris W. Keller, born on July 11, 1873 in Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois; Morris W. Keller was married to Mary P. Heberling on February 26, 1896 in Stark County, Illinois; At the time of the 1910 census, Morris and his family are found residing in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Morris Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 37 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 10 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 7 Illinois
Daughter Leila Keller F 3 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 2 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 0 Illinois
Boarder John Uzudyke M 45 Illinois
At the time of the 1920 census, the Kellers are found in Amboy, Fulton County, Ohio;
Head Morris Keller M 46 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 47 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 17 Illinois
Daughter Zelah Keller F 14 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 8 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 10 Illinois
Son Harley Keller M 7 Illinois
At the time of his father's death in 1937, Morris is residing in Pioneer, Ohio. Morris W. Keller died on October 18, 1962 at __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
Eunice A. (Perkins) Keller died on ___________ __, 1875 in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
On January 31, 1878, Emanuel was married to Mrs. Marian (Fallow) Dart at Manchester, Connecticut. Marian was born in December of 1852 in Scotland, the daughter of John Fallow and Jennett (Shearer) Fallow. The Fallows came to America about 1854/55. At the time of the 1860 census, the John Fallow family is found in Manchester, Hartford County, Connecticut;
John Fallow M 44 Scotland
Jennett Fallow F 44 Scotland
James Fallow M 14 Scotland
Agnes Fallow F 12 Scotland
Marien Fallow F 8 Scotland
Gavin Fallow M 4 Connecticut
Jennett Fallow F 3 Connecticut
John Peterson M 35 Scotland
Saml Greasey M 50 Ireland
Marian's 1st husband was Addison Dart, who died shortly after their only son, Addison Archibald Dart, was born on December 29, 1872. Addison came west to Illinois with his mother and step-father in 1878. He continued to make his home with them until a young man.
Six more children were born to Emanuel and Marion. They are;
4. John F. Keller, born on ___________ __, 1879 in Princeville Township; died on ___________ __, 1882 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
5. Wilder Hazen Keller, born on March 1, 1883 in Princeville Township; married to Mary Tindall on September 24, 1909; At the time of the 1920 census, Wilder and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Wilder H Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary E Keller F 30 Illinois
Daughter Alice L Keller F 9 Illinois
Son Gene E Keller M 7 Illinois
Wilder died on May 23, 1940 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See his Find A Grave site for more information about his family.
6. Marcia Geneva Keller; born on August __, 1885 in Princeville Township; married to Earle Roscoe Weaver on June 10, 1908; At the time of the 1930 census, Geneva and are family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Earl Weaver M 44 Illinois
Wife Geneva Weaver F 43 Illinois
Daughter Marion Weaver F 19 Illinois
Son Winfield Weaver M 16 Illinois
Son Vernon Weaver M 14 Illinois
Daughter Earline Weaver F 12 Illinois
Father-in-law Emanuel Kellar M 91 Pennsylvania
Boarder Harold Johnson M 23 Illinois
Geneva died on Apr. 19, 1959 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
7. Riley Raymond Keller; born on either October 4th or April __ of 1888; Riley was married to Bessie Eyre on March 24, 1912; At the time of the 1920 census, Riley and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Riley Keller M 31 Illinois
Wife Bessie Keller F 30 Illinois
Son Preston Keller M 5 Illinois
Son Karl Keller M 2 Illinois
At the time of the 1940 census, the Kellers still reside in Princville Township;
Head Riley Kellar M 51 Illinois
Wife Bessie Kellar F 50 Illinois
Son Preston Kellar M 25 Illinois
Son Karl Kellar M 22 Illinois
Riley died on December 9, 1958 in __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the
Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #133337754.
8. Jennie Myrtle Keller; born on June 22, 1890; married to Auverne William "Dick" Delbridge, of Princeville, Illinois on March 19, 1913; At the time of the 1940 census, the Delbridge family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Awrene Delbridge M 51 Illinois
Wife Jennie Delbridge F 49 Illinois
Daughter Florence Delbridge F 24 Illinois
Son William Delbridge M 21 Illinois
Daughter Coral Delbridge F 18 Illinois
Son Robert Delbridge M 16 Illinois
Son Raymond Delbridge M 14 Illinois
Jennie died on Mar. 11, 1955 in Kewanee, Henry County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
9. Irene M. Keller; born on July 12, 1893; married to Charles Debord; At the time of the 1930 census, Irene and Charles are found in Toulon, Stark County, Illinois;
Head Charles I Debord M 39 Illinois
Wife Irene M Debord F 36 Illinois
Daughter Ruth A Debord F 16 Illinois
Daughter Helen M Debord F 6 Illinois
Daughter Ruby J Debord F 4 Illinois
Boarder Walter A Smith M 21 Illinois
Charles Ivan Debord died on October __, 1975 in Illinois, while Irene M. (Keller) Debord died on August __, 1888 in ___________, Illinois. Their mortal remains were laid in the _____________ Cemetery in ___________, ___________.
At the time of the 1880 census, the Keller family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Self Emanuel Keller M 41 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 28 Scotland
Son Forrest E Keller M 12 Illinois
Son Morris Keller M 6 Illinois
Son John Keller M 1 Illinois
Father Flora Keller M 76 Wales
Mother Catherine Keller F 66 Pennsylvania
Stepson Addison Dart M 7 Connecticut
Other John Stengley M 18 Iowa
In 1887, some of the men of the 86th Illinois organized and held a reunion for the old 86h in Peoria during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service in Peoria back in 1862. The reunion was attended by some 130 veterans of the 86th and their families and was such a hit, that it was decided that they would continue to hold them every year on the anniversary as long as the veterans could attend. Emanuel Keller was one of nine members of Co. K to attend that first reunion. The reunions continued to grow for several years as more and more veterans of the 86th were located and they continued to hold them through the year 1923, when it was tearfully decided by the 21 aged veterans of the 86th who were able to attend that last reunion, that they were getting too old and too few to continue them after that 1923 reunion.
Living in Peoria County, Emanuel was very active in these reunions, rarely missing any of them. Of the 37 reunions which were held, Emanuel Keller only missed four reunions. Emanual Keller was one of the 21 surviving members and the only member of Co. K to attend that 1923 reunion, when it was tearfully decided to discontinue the reunions. After all of these years, it had be to be a hard and sad decision to make.
The 1890 Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois contained the following biography on pages 949-951;
"EMANUEL KELLER. In this gentleman Princeville has not only one of its most practical and successful farmers, but also one of its most desirable citizens, who is a conspicuous figure in the social, religious and political life of this part of the county. As a veteran of the late war, in which he fought long and well, and as an enterprising citizen of Peoria County, we are pleased to present his biographical sketch and portrait on these pages.
The father of our subject, Flory Keller, was born in Germany, and when three years of age accompanied his father to this country, his mother having died in their native land. They settled in Pennsylvania, and Flory was put out to strangers, being reared on a farm and early becoming self-supporting. He lived in Little York, York County, Pa., and was there occupied in agricultural pursuits until he removed to Ohio, and was engaged in the same occupation among the pioneers of Richland and Stark Counties. He remained there until 1841, and then coming to this State, located in the timber in Essex Township, Stark County. He made his living by working for others there until 1853, and then coming to Princeville Township, rented land for some years. In 1856 he bought eighty acres, comprising the western part of the northeastern quarter of section 10, which he improved from wild prairie into a well-cultivated farm.
In the fall, of 1868 Mr. Keller sold that place, and going to Doniphan County, Kan., purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, where he located and was engaged in its improvement several years. He subsequently removed to Phillips County and bought a claim, and made his title clear; he finally disposed of it at an advance, and returned to Highland, Kan., and now lives retired with a son, he having reached the venerable age of eighty-five years. He is in every way a worthy man, and has won the esteem of all about him. He has always been a sturdy supporter of the Republican party. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Catherine Coleman, and she was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of Christopher Coleman, a farmer and likewise a native of the Keystone State. He was a pioneer of Ohio, and in 1841 removed to Illinois, dying at a ripe old age. The mother of our subject is still living at the age of seventy-five years. She belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is firm in the faith.
The following is recorded of the twelve children born to the parents of our subject: Eli was a member of the One Hundred and First Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and serving faithfully until he gave up his life for his country, in 1863, at Mission Creek; Andrew was a soldier in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and sacrificed his life in the cause, having been mortally wounded at Kenesaw Mountain, and dying two days afterward; Emanuel is the next in order of birth; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Lake, resides in Phillips County, Kan.; Edmond, a resident of Abilene, Kan., and County Coroner, enlisted in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry in 1862, and served until honorably discharged on account of physical disability; he subsequently re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-ninth, one hundred day regiment, and was afterward in Battery A, Second Illinois Light Artillery, until the close of the war; W. H., a resident of Highland, Kan., enlisted in 1862, in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close of the war; Levi resides in Highland, Kan.; Alfred is a farmer in Phillips County, Kan.; Ezra A. resides in Highland, Charles in Phillips County, and Samuel and David also in Highland, that State.
The subject of this notice was born in Richland County, Ohio, October 25, 1838, and was less than three years old when he accompanied his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections are of a pioneer home in Stark County, this State, where he lived until he was twelve years old. His school advantages were limited, as he attended school but a few months in his early boyhood. He remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-one, and then engaged in working out by the month until he entered the army. He watched the course of the war with patriotic ardor, and in August, 1862, volunteered for the defense of his country, enlisting in Company K, Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, which was mustered in at Peoria, and dispatched to Louisville, Ky.. arriving there October 8. Mr. Keller took part in the battle of Perrysville, Ky., and was in the various skirmishes around Nashville, the battles of Franklin and Brentwood, and with his regiment in its various encounters with the enemy in and around Murfreesboro. He engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, and was at Mission Ridge. From there he and his comrades went to Knoxville, thence returned to Chattanooga, and in the spring of 1864 accompanied Sherman on his Georgia campaign.
Our subject was wounded by a minie ball at the battle of Buzzard's Roost, the ball lodging in the right arm above the elbow, and on May 10 he was sent to the field hospital, and thence to Jeffersonville, Ind., where he remained until July. In that month he joined his regiment at the front, and fought well in the battles of Atlanta and Jonesboro, and then followed Forrest to Florence, Ala., and did good service in the Florence expedition. Returning to Atlanta the next day, he started on the famous march to the sea, and from Savannah went northward through the Carolinas and at the battle of Averysboro his brave conduct won him deserved promotion to the position of Corporal. He fought in the battle of Bentonville, and marched on to Raleigh with his regiment, proceeded to Washington by the way of Richmond, and took part in the Grand Review. He was mustered out as Corporal, and discharged at Chicago, June 27, 1865, having proved throughout his whole course in camp and on the field that he possessed true soldierly qualities. In the fight at Buzzard's Roost a spent ball hit him on the right shoulder, and another grazed his check and drew blood. In the second battle of Buzzard's Roost he was wounded badly in the arm. After his long and hard experience of a military life our subject returned to Princeville, and quietly resumed the life of a civilian, and was engaged in working out until the spring of 1866. He then rented a farm in Princeville, then in Akron Township, for three years, and subsequently farmed near Duncan for two years. In 1872 he located on his present place, and in 1885 purchased eighty acres on section 10, placing that tract under substantial improvement. He raises and sells cattle of fine grades, and has full-blooded Poland-China hogs, and good horses, using three teams to operate his farm.
Mr. Keller was first married in Princeville, March 21, 1866, to Miss Eunice A. Perkins, who was born in Connecticut and came here with her parents. Their wedded life was a happy one, and was brought to a close by her death in 1875. She was the mother of three children: Forest E., a tonsorial artist in Princeville; Morris W., at home with his father; and a child who died in infancy. Mr. Keller was married to his present estimable wife, formerly Miss Marian Fallow, in January, 1878, the wedding ceremony taking place in Manchester. Conn. Mrs. Keller was born in Scotland, and came to America when a child with her father, John Fallow. She was reared in Connecticut, and when a young lady learned the manufacture of silk in the factories. She was married in Manchester to Addison A. Dart, and had one child by that marriage, Addison A. Dart, who lives with her and our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Keller have four children living: Wilder H., Geneva, Riley and an infant named Jennie. Their son John died at the age of three years.
Mr. Keller is in every way worthy of the high estimation set upon his value by the community, as a noble, true-hearted, loyal Christian gentleman, in whom his fellow-citizens may place implicit trust. Forethought, sagacity and clear discernment, combined with a due sense of honor and honesty, are prominent traits of his character, and by these he has placed himself on a sound financial basis among the substantial citizens of the township and county. He is a member of the Princeville Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is at present Trustee, and the sincerity of his faith is betokened by his work. He is prominent in local politics, a stalwart among the Republicans, and has been Delegate to county conventions. He was School Director for three terms, and is at present Commissioner of Highways, serving his fourth term in this office. He is identified with the Princeville I. O. O. F. as Past Noble. He is an important member of the Frenche Post, G. A. R., of which he is Past Commander, and he was present at the St. Louis and Columbus encampments."
Emanuel and Marian Keller resided on the Keller farm until about 1900, at which time they moved with their family to a home located just north and east of the Princeville Township Cemetery. At the time of the 1900 census, the Keller family is found in the Village of Princeville;
Head Emanuel Keller M 62 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 48 Scotland
Son Wilder H Keller M 16 Illinois
Daughter Geneva J Keller F 15 Illinois
Son Riley R Keller M 12 Illinois
Daughter Jennie M Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Irene M Keller F 7 Illinois
Servant Andrew J Mitts M 41 Kentucky
At the time of the 1920 census, Emanuel Keller is found residing in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois with his daughter
Head Emanuel Keller M 81 Ohio
Wife Marian Keller F 68 Scotland
Daughter Geneva Weaver F 35 Illinois
Granddaughter Marian Weaver F 10 Illinois
Grandson Winfield Weaver M 7 Illinois
Grandson Vernon Weaver M 5 Illinois
Granddaughter Earline Weaver F 4 Illinois
Mrs. Marian Keller passed away on February 3, 1923 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Princeville Township Cemetery. Emanuel's health continued to remain good through the years. He continued to attended all local Memorial Day and Armistace Day activities in Princeville through the years and he watched as all of his pards from Co. K passed away. At the time of the 1930 census, Emanuel is found residing with his daughter and son-in-law, Geneva and Earle Weaver in Princeville Township.
Emanuel's health remained good until near the end and was up and around until Thursday, April 15, 1937, at which time he became ill. Emanuel was moved to the Seven Oaks Sanitarium on Saturday, April 17, 1937 and he seemed to improve on Sunday. His obituary states that "his frail strength was unable to withstand the ordeal, and like the good soldier that he was, he answered the call of 'taps' and passed on to his well earned reward, after almost a century of living, over eight-three years of which time were spent in the Princeville community." At the time of his passing, Corporal Emanuel Keller was the last Civil War veteran living in Princeville, was the oldest resident of the Village and was the next to last living veteran of the Princeville Company, Co. K, Pvt. Frank Beach, of Dumont, Iowa, being the last. The earthly remains of Corporal Emanuel Keller were laid to rest beside those of his wife of 45 years, Marion, in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would love to hear from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Corporal Emanuel Keller and the Keller family. Baxter would also like to see more copies of pictures of Emanuel Keller added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
Corporal EMANUEL KELLER, Co. K, 86th Illinois
Emanuel Keller was the third of twelve children born to Flory Keller (of Germany) and Catherine Coleman. Emanuel was one of four of Flory's sons to enlist in the Princeville Company, Co. K of the 86th Illinois, during the Civil War. Emanuel was born on Oct. 25, 1838 in either Richland County or Ashland County, Ohio. Upon his death, Emanuel Keller's obituary stated that, "When he was less than three years of age, he moved with his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections were of a pioneer home in Stark County, where he resided until he was twelve years of age. This home was in the south of what is now Essex Township. He then moved with his parents to a farm in Princeville Township, which his father rented. Mr. Keller's school advantages were very limited as he was only able to attend school a few short months of his boyhood. He was the third eldest of a family of twelve children, and he, with his two elder brothers, Eli and Andrew, helped their father in the fields as soon as they were old enough and as the other children were younger, the burden of the work supporting such a large family fell upon the three eldest boys and their parents. Mr. Keller lived with his parents until he became twenty-one years of age, when he engaged in working out by the month, until the start of the Civil War. He watched the course of the war with patriotic interest" until August of 1862.
On August 7, 1862, Andrew and his next two youngest brothers, Emanuel and Edmund, were among the very first to volunteer for service in a company which was being raised in Princeville by a school teacher, by the name of John F. French, for service in the Union Army. Two days later, the next youngest brother, William H. Keller, who was either 18 or 19 years of age at most, lied about his age, claiming he was 23, and also volunteered for service in this company.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name KELLER, EMANUEL
Rank PVT Company K Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence PRINCEVILLE, PEORIA CO, IL Age 25 Height 5' 5 Hair LIGHT
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity ASHLAND, ASHLAND CO, OH
Service Record
Joined When AUG 7, 1862 Joined Where PRINCEVILLE, IL
Joined By Whom CPT FRENCH Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks MUSTERED OUT AS CORPORAL WOUNDED MAY 10, 1864 AT BUZZARD ROOST GA
When John F. French had approximately 100 volunteers, he took his company into Peoria, Illinois, where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, John F. French and 95 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. K of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry, John F. French as their Captain. The Kellers were mustered in as Privates.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out of Camp Lyon to the railroad depot. There they boarded the trains which took them to Camp Joe Holt, located in Jeffersonville, Indiana across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col Daniel McCook's Brigade. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of the 86th were engaged with Confederate troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th suffering their first casualties. There were many more to come.
After the Battle of Perryville, a Union victory, the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee, where they went into winter camp. During the winter of 1862/63, over 300 men of the 86th became so sick that they either died or were discharged from the service by the government in hopes that they could return home and regain their health. One of these 300 men was Edmond Keller, who was discharged from the service on January 13, 1863.
During the spring and summer of 1863, the men of the 86th remained in the Nashville area doing garrison duty and going on short marches throughout central Tennessee. Then during the late summer and fall of 1863, the men of the 86th participated in the Campaign for Chattanooga. During this period, the men of the 86th were engaged with the enemy during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia. After the Confederates were finally driven out of the Chattanooga area for good, the men of the 86th went into winter camp across the river from Lee & Gordons Mills, just on the south of edge of the Chickamauga Battlefield in Georgia.
In the late winter of 1863/64, the Union Army in the Chattanooga area, under the command of Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, began the opening movements of what would become the Campaign for Atlanta. On May 10, 1864, during a skirmish at Buzzard Roost Gap, Georgia, just north of Resaca, Georgia, the men of Co. K of the 86th were engaged in a short skirmish with the enemy holding the Gap. During this skirmish, Pvt. Emanual Keller was struck in the right arm by a Confederate Minie Ball, the ball lodging in the arm above the right elbow. Emanuel was first sent to a field hospital in the rear, but eventually was sent to a Army Hospital in Jeffersonville, Indiana. By July of 1864, he had recovered and was sent back south to rejoin Co. K. He probably rejoined them somewhere around Atlanta, Georgia.
During May and June of 1864, the men of the 86th participated in the Battles of Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia; Dallas, Georgia; Big Shanty, Georgia and on June 22, 1864, the opening skirmishes on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. Then on June 27, 1864, what would prove to be the bloodiest day in the war for the 86th Illinois, the men of the 86th found themselves aligned in the center of Gen. Daniel McCook's Brigade for the assault on Cheatham Hill on Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia. McCook's Brigade was assigned the duty of assaulting a section of the Confederate fortifications on the Kennesaw Line that would soon become known as "The Dead Angle."
During the 30 minute assault of Cheatham Hill, McCook's Brigade would suffer over 30% casualties, over 500 men. Of this 500, over 100 were from the 86th Illinois which made the assault with approximately 400 men. Company K, which probably made the assault with about 40 men present for duty, had one man killed outright and 7 others wounded. One of those wounded was Pvt. Andrew Keller, who was severely wounded in the Breast and Neck. He was immediately sent to a Field Hospital in the rear and soon to a Army Hospital in Chattanooga, but on July 3, 1864, 7 days after being wounded, Pvt. Andrew Keller died from his wounds and his earthly remains were laid to rest in a cemetery in Chattanooga.
After the Confederates withdrew from Kennesaw Mountain, the Campaign for Atlanta continued. The two remaining Keller boys, Emanuel and William marched on with the surviving members of the 86th. They were there when Atlanta finally fell, marched with Sherman to the Sea, were there when Sherman took Savannah, Georgia as an early Christmas present for President Abraham Lincoln, took part in the spring 1865 Carolina Campaign which included the Battles of Averysboro and Bentonville, North Carolina, which helped to bring an end to the terrible Civil War. Emanuel's obituary states that after the Battle of Averysboro "Mr. Keller's brave conduct won for him deserved promotion to the rank of Corporal." At the war came to a close, the 86th and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Washington, D.C where they marched down Pennsylvania Avenue on the 2nd day of the Grand Revue on May 24, 1865.
The surviving members of the 86th, approximately 400 men out of the 992 who had served in the regiment during the war, were mustered out on June 6, 1865 in Washington, D.C. and following a long train ride to Chicago, the men were discharged from the service and they returned to their respective homes in Central Illinois. Emanual and William were reunited with Edmund, but undoubtedly their thoughts often turned to the missing brother, Andrew, whose earthly remains, then as now, lie in Grave #11685 in Section E of the Chattanooga National Cemetery under a tombstone marked, "AND'W KELLER."
After he returned from the service, Emanuel "quietly resumed the life of a civilian and was employed at farm labor until the spring of 1866." Emanuel was married to Eunice A. Perkins on March 21, 1866. Eunice was born on ___________ __, 1845 in Vernon, Tolland County, Connecticut, the daughter of Calvin Perkins and Lucinda (House) Perkins.
Emanuel and Eunice first lived on a farm in Akron Township, then after three years there to a farm near Duncan, Illinois, then in 1872 to a farm that was located about 2 and a half miles northwest of Princeville, Illinois in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois, which he farmed for the next forty years. Three children were born to Emanuel and Eunice, before she passed away in 1875. They were;
1. Forrest E. Keller, born c. December 8, 1867/68/69 in Princeville, Illinois; Forrest was married to Elizabeth ___________ on __________ __, 18__; residing in Chicago, Illinois in 1937; At the time of the 1940 census, Forest is found residing in what is called Ward 27 of the City of Chicago, Cook County, Illinois;
Head Forrest E Keller M 71 Illinois
Wife Elizabeth Keller F 58 Illinois
Brother-in-law Robert Norman M 73 Illinois
Sister-in-law Anna Norman F 60 Illinois
Forrest E. Keller died on January 12, 1946 in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois at the age of 76. His death certificate gives his year of birth as 1869. His occupation is given as Barber and his mortal remains were laid in the Calvary Cemetery in Evanston, Cook County, Illinois on January 13, 1946.
2. Infant son Keller who was born and died in infancy in 1870; His mortal remains were laid in Div. B, Row 5 of the Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois.
3. Morris W. Keller, born on July 11, 1873 in Princeville Township in Peoria County, Illinois; Morris W. Keller was married to Mary P. Heberling on February 26, 1896 in Stark County, Illinois; At the time of the 1910 census, Morris and his family are found residing in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Morris Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 37 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 10 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 7 Illinois
Daughter Leila Keller F 3 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 2 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 0 Illinois
Boarder John Uzudyke M 45 Illinois
At the time of the 1920 census, the Kellers are found in Amboy, Fulton County, Ohio;
Head Morris Keller M 46 Illinois
Wife Mary Keller F 47 Illinois
Daughter Jessie Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Hazel Keller F 17 Illinois
Daughter Zelah Keller F 14 Illinois
Daughter Ruby Keller F 8 Illinois
Son Byron Keller M 10 Illinois
Son Harley Keller M 7 Illinois
At the time of his father's death in 1937, Morris is residing in Pioneer, Ohio. Morris W. Keller died on October 18, 1962 at __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
Eunice A. (Perkins) Keller died on ___________ __, 1875 in Princeville Township of Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
On January 31, 1878, Emanuel was married to Mrs. Marian (Fallow) Dart at Manchester, Connecticut. Marian was born in December of 1852 in Scotland, the daughter of John Fallow and Jennett (Shearer) Fallow. The Fallows came to America about 1854/55. At the time of the 1860 census, the John Fallow family is found in Manchester, Hartford County, Connecticut;
John Fallow M 44 Scotland
Jennett Fallow F 44 Scotland
James Fallow M 14 Scotland
Agnes Fallow F 12 Scotland
Marien Fallow F 8 Scotland
Gavin Fallow M 4 Connecticut
Jennett Fallow F 3 Connecticut
John Peterson M 35 Scotland
Saml Greasey M 50 Ireland
Marian's 1st husband was Addison Dart, who died shortly after their only son, Addison Archibald Dart, was born on December 29, 1872. Addison came west to Illinois with his mother and step-father in 1878. He continued to make his home with them until a young man.
Six more children were born to Emanuel and Marion. They are;
4. John F. Keller, born on ___________ __, 1879 in Princeville Township; died on ___________ __, 1882 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
5. Wilder Hazen Keller, born on March 1, 1883 in Princeville Township; married to Mary Tindall on September 24, 1909; At the time of the 1920 census, Wilder and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Wilder H Keller M 36 Illinois
Wife Mary E Keller F 30 Illinois
Daughter Alice L Keller F 9 Illinois
Son Gene E Keller M 7 Illinois
Wilder died on May 23, 1940 in Princeville Township and his mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See his Find A Grave site for more information about his family.
6. Marcia Geneva Keller; born on August __, 1885 in Princeville Township; married to Earle Roscoe Weaver on June 10, 1908; At the time of the 1930 census, Geneva and are family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Earl Weaver M 44 Illinois
Wife Geneva Weaver F 43 Illinois
Daughter Marion Weaver F 19 Illinois
Son Winfield Weaver M 16 Illinois
Son Vernon Weaver M 14 Illinois
Daughter Earline Weaver F 12 Illinois
Father-in-law Emanuel Kellar M 91 Pennsylvania
Boarder Harold Johnson M 23 Illinois
Geneva died on Apr. 19, 1959 in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
7. Riley Raymond Keller; born on either October 4th or April __ of 1888; Riley was married to Bessie Eyre on March 24, 1912; At the time of the 1920 census, Riley and his family are found in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Riley Keller M 31 Illinois
Wife Bessie Keller F 30 Illinois
Son Preston Keller M 5 Illinois
Son Karl Keller M 2 Illinois
At the time of the 1940 census, the Kellers still reside in Princville Township;
Head Riley Kellar M 51 Illinois
Wife Bessie Kellar F 50 Illinois
Son Preston Kellar M 25 Illinois
Son Karl Kellar M 22 Illinois
Riley died on December 9, 1958 in __________, __________ and his mortal remains were laid in the
Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. See his Find A Grave Memorial #133337754.
8. Jennie Myrtle Keller; born on June 22, 1890; married to Auverne William "Dick" Delbridge, of Princeville, Illinois on March 19, 1913; At the time of the 1940 census, the Delbridge family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Head Awrene Delbridge M 51 Illinois
Wife Jennie Delbridge F 49 Illinois
Daughter Florence Delbridge F 24 Illinois
Son William Delbridge M 21 Illinois
Daughter Coral Delbridge F 18 Illinois
Son Robert Delbridge M 16 Illinois
Son Raymond Delbridge M 14 Illinois
Jennie died on Mar. 11, 1955 in Kewanee, Henry County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Princeville Township Cemetery; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her family.
9. Irene M. Keller; born on July 12, 1893; married to Charles Debord; At the time of the 1930 census, Irene and Charles are found in Toulon, Stark County, Illinois;
Head Charles I Debord M 39 Illinois
Wife Irene M Debord F 36 Illinois
Daughter Ruth A Debord F 16 Illinois
Daughter Helen M Debord F 6 Illinois
Daughter Ruby J Debord F 4 Illinois
Boarder Walter A Smith M 21 Illinois
Charles Ivan Debord died on October __, 1975 in Illinois, while Irene M. (Keller) Debord died on August __, 1888 in ___________, Illinois. Their mortal remains were laid in the _____________ Cemetery in ___________, ___________.
At the time of the 1880 census, the Keller family is found in Princeville Township, Peoria County, Illinois;
Self Emanuel Keller M 41 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 28 Scotland
Son Forrest E Keller M 12 Illinois
Son Morris Keller M 6 Illinois
Son John Keller M 1 Illinois
Father Flora Keller M 76 Wales
Mother Catherine Keller F 66 Pennsylvania
Stepson Addison Dart M 7 Connecticut
Other John Stengley M 18 Iowa
In 1887, some of the men of the 86th Illinois organized and held a reunion for the old 86h in Peoria during the week of August 27, 1887, the 25th anniversary of their being mustered into service in Peoria back in 1862. The reunion was attended by some 130 veterans of the 86th and their families and was such a hit, that it was decided that they would continue to hold them every year on the anniversary as long as the veterans could attend. Emanuel Keller was one of nine members of Co. K to attend that first reunion. The reunions continued to grow for several years as more and more veterans of the 86th were located and they continued to hold them through the year 1923, when it was tearfully decided by the 21 aged veterans of the 86th who were able to attend that last reunion, that they were getting too old and too few to continue them after that 1923 reunion.
Living in Peoria County, Emanuel was very active in these reunions, rarely missing any of them. Of the 37 reunions which were held, Emanuel Keller only missed four reunions. Emanual Keller was one of the 21 surviving members and the only member of Co. K to attend that 1923 reunion, when it was tearfully decided to discontinue the reunions. After all of these years, it had be to be a hard and sad decision to make.
The 1890 Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois contained the following biography on pages 949-951;
"EMANUEL KELLER. In this gentleman Princeville has not only one of its most practical and successful farmers, but also one of its most desirable citizens, who is a conspicuous figure in the social, religious and political life of this part of the county. As a veteran of the late war, in which he fought long and well, and as an enterprising citizen of Peoria County, we are pleased to present his biographical sketch and portrait on these pages.
The father of our subject, Flory Keller, was born in Germany, and when three years of age accompanied his father to this country, his mother having died in their native land. They settled in Pennsylvania, and Flory was put out to strangers, being reared on a farm and early becoming self-supporting. He lived in Little York, York County, Pa., and was there occupied in agricultural pursuits until he removed to Ohio, and was engaged in the same occupation among the pioneers of Richland and Stark Counties. He remained there until 1841, and then coming to this State, located in the timber in Essex Township, Stark County. He made his living by working for others there until 1853, and then coming to Princeville Township, rented land for some years. In 1856 he bought eighty acres, comprising the western part of the northeastern quarter of section 10, which he improved from wild prairie into a well-cultivated farm.
In the fall, of 1868 Mr. Keller sold that place, and going to Doniphan County, Kan., purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, where he located and was engaged in its improvement several years. He subsequently removed to Phillips County and bought a claim, and made his title clear; he finally disposed of it at an advance, and returned to Highland, Kan., and now lives retired with a son, he having reached the venerable age of eighty-five years. He is in every way a worthy man, and has won the esteem of all about him. He has always been a sturdy supporter of the Republican party. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Catherine Coleman, and she was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of Christopher Coleman, a farmer and likewise a native of the Keystone State. He was a pioneer of Ohio, and in 1841 removed to Illinois, dying at a ripe old age. The mother of our subject is still living at the age of seventy-five years. She belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is firm in the faith.
The following is recorded of the twelve children born to the parents of our subject: Eli was a member of the One Hundred and First Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and serving faithfully until he gave up his life for his country, in 1863, at Mission Creek; Andrew was a soldier in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, enlisting in 1862, and sacrificed his life in the cause, having been mortally wounded at Kenesaw Mountain, and dying two days afterward; Emanuel is the next in order of birth; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Lake, resides in Phillips County, Kan.; Edmond, a resident of Abilene, Kan., and County Coroner, enlisted in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry in 1862, and served until honorably discharged on account of physical disability; he subsequently re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-ninth, one hundred day regiment, and was afterward in Battery A, Second Illinois Light Artillery, until the close of the war; W. H., a resident of Highland, Kan., enlisted in 1862, in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close of the war; Levi resides in Highland, Kan.; Alfred is a farmer in Phillips County, Kan.; Ezra A. resides in Highland, Charles in Phillips County, and Samuel and David also in Highland, that State.
The subject of this notice was born in Richland County, Ohio, October 25, 1838, and was less than three years old when he accompanied his parents to Illinois, coming by boat to Peoria. His first recollections are of a pioneer home in Stark County, this State, where he lived until he was twelve years old. His school advantages were limited, as he attended school but a few months in his early boyhood. He remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-one, and then engaged in working out by the month until he entered the army. He watched the course of the war with patriotic ardor, and in August, 1862, volunteered for the defense of his country, enlisting in Company K, Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, which was mustered in at Peoria, and dispatched to Louisville, Ky.. arriving there October 8. Mr. Keller took part in the battle of Perrysville, Ky., and was in the various skirmishes around Nashville, the battles of Franklin and Brentwood, and with his regiment in its various encounters with the enemy in and around Murfreesboro. He engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, and was at Mission Ridge. From there he and his comrades went to Knoxville, thence returned to Chattanooga, and in the spring of 1864 accompanied Sherman on his Georgia campaign.
Our subject was wounded by a minie ball at the battle of Buzzard's Roost, the ball lodging in the right arm above the elbow, and on May 10 he was sent to the field hospital, and thence to Jeffersonville, Ind., where he remained until July. In that month he joined his regiment at the front, and fought well in the battles of Atlanta and Jonesboro, and then followed Forrest to Florence, Ala., and did good service in the Florence expedition. Returning to Atlanta the next day, he started on the famous march to the sea, and from Savannah went northward through the Carolinas and at the battle of Averysboro his brave conduct won him deserved promotion to the position of Corporal. He fought in the battle of Bentonville, and marched on to Raleigh with his regiment, proceeded to Washington by the way of Richmond, and took part in the Grand Review. He was mustered out as Corporal, and discharged at Chicago, June 27, 1865, having proved throughout his whole course in camp and on the field that he possessed true soldierly qualities. In the fight at Buzzard's Roost a spent ball hit him on the right shoulder, and another grazed his check and drew blood. In the second battle of Buzzard's Roost he was wounded badly in the arm. After his long and hard experience of a military life our subject returned to Princeville, and quietly resumed the life of a civilian, and was engaged in working out until the spring of 1866. He then rented a farm in Princeville, then in Akron Township, for three years, and subsequently farmed near Duncan for two years. In 1872 he located on his present place, and in 1885 purchased eighty acres on section 10, placing that tract under substantial improvement. He raises and sells cattle of fine grades, and has full-blooded Poland-China hogs, and good horses, using three teams to operate his farm.
Mr. Keller was first married in Princeville, March 21, 1866, to Miss Eunice A. Perkins, who was born in Connecticut and came here with her parents. Their wedded life was a happy one, and was brought to a close by her death in 1875. She was the mother of three children: Forest E., a tonsorial artist in Princeville; Morris W., at home with his father; and a child who died in infancy. Mr. Keller was married to his present estimable wife, formerly Miss Marian Fallow, in January, 1878, the wedding ceremony taking place in Manchester. Conn. Mrs. Keller was born in Scotland, and came to America when a child with her father, John Fallow. She was reared in Connecticut, and when a young lady learned the manufacture of silk in the factories. She was married in Manchester to Addison A. Dart, and had one child by that marriage, Addison A. Dart, who lives with her and our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Keller have four children living: Wilder H., Geneva, Riley and an infant named Jennie. Their son John died at the age of three years.
Mr. Keller is in every way worthy of the high estimation set upon his value by the community, as a noble, true-hearted, loyal Christian gentleman, in whom his fellow-citizens may place implicit trust. Forethought, sagacity and clear discernment, combined with a due sense of honor and honesty, are prominent traits of his character, and by these he has placed himself on a sound financial basis among the substantial citizens of the township and county. He is a member of the Princeville Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is at present Trustee, and the sincerity of his faith is betokened by his work. He is prominent in local politics, a stalwart among the Republicans, and has been Delegate to county conventions. He was School Director for three terms, and is at present Commissioner of Highways, serving his fourth term in this office. He is identified with the Princeville I. O. O. F. as Past Noble. He is an important member of the Frenche Post, G. A. R., of which he is Past Commander, and he was present at the St. Louis and Columbus encampments."
Emanuel and Marian Keller resided on the Keller farm until about 1900, at which time they moved with their family to a home located just north and east of the Princeville Township Cemetery. At the time of the 1900 census, the Keller family is found in the Village of Princeville;
Head Emanuel Keller M 62 Ohio
Wife Marion Keller F 48 Scotland
Son Wilder H Keller M 16 Illinois
Daughter Geneva J Keller F 15 Illinois
Son Riley R Keller M 12 Illinois
Daughter Jennie M Keller F 20 Illinois
Daughter Irene M Keller F 7 Illinois
Servant Andrew J Mitts M 41 Kentucky
At the time of the 1920 census, Emanuel Keller is found residing in Princeville, Peoria County, Illinois with his daughter
Head Emanuel Keller M 81 Ohio
Wife Marian Keller F 68 Scotland
Daughter Geneva Weaver F 35 Illinois
Granddaughter Marian Weaver F 10 Illinois
Grandson Winfield Weaver M 7 Illinois
Grandson Vernon Weaver M 5 Illinois
Granddaughter Earline Weaver F 4 Illinois
Mrs. Marian Keller passed away on February 3, 1923 and her earthly remains were laid to rest in the Princeville Township Cemetery. Emanuel's health continued to remain good through the years. He continued to attended all local Memorial Day and Armistace Day activities in Princeville through the years and he watched as all of his pards from Co. K passed away. At the time of the 1930 census, Emanuel is found residing with his daughter and son-in-law, Geneva and Earle Weaver in Princeville Township.
Emanuel's health remained good until near the end and was up and around until Thursday, April 15, 1937, at which time he became ill. Emanuel was moved to the Seven Oaks Sanitarium on Saturday, April 17, 1937 and he seemed to improve on Sunday. His obituary states that "his frail strength was unable to withstand the ordeal, and like the good soldier that he was, he answered the call of 'taps' and passed on to his well earned reward, after almost a century of living, over eight-three years of which time were spent in the Princeville community." At the time of his passing, Corporal Emanuel Keller was the last Civil War veteran living in Princeville, was the oldest resident of the Village and was the next to last living veteran of the Princeville Company, Co. K, Pvt. Frank Beach, of Dumont, Iowa, being the last. The earthly remains of Corporal Emanuel Keller were laid to rest beside those of his wife of 45 years, Marion, in the Princeville Township Cemetery.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would love to hear from anyone, especially descendants, who might be able to add to the biographical information that we have on Corporal Emanuel Keller and the Keller family. Baxter would also like to see more copies of pictures of Emanuel Keller added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
Family Members
Siblings
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Pvt Eli Keller
1836–1863
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Pvt Anthony Andrew "Andy" Keller
1837–1864
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Elizabeth Catherine Keller Lake
1839–1903
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Pvt Edmund Keller
1841–1896
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Pvt William Henry Keller
1844–1926
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Levi Keller
1845–1917
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Charles Wesley Keller
1850–1933
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Allen Ezra Keller
1850–1928
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Samuel Alexander Keller
1852–1905
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David W Keller
1854–1907
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