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File contributed to the Fulton County ILGenWeb Project
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Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Fulton County
Biographical Publishing Co., Chicago, 1890

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The Biography of Daniel M. HIGGINS 

Page 493, transcribed in full by Danni Hopkins 

[Surnames: BAUGHMAN, HELLER, HIGGINS, LANDIS, ZIMMERMAN] 

    
DANIEL M. HIGGINS. Although this gentleman is still quite a young man, he has become well-known as a successful farmer, who pursues the most approved methods in the management of his estate, keeping it above a par in its improved and orderly appearance, and making of it an attractive as well as remunerative piece of property. He is also held in good repute as an honest, upright man and citizen, who, although not a member of any religious organization, is a liberal contributor to the church and all good causes. 
    
The parents of our subject, Hiram Higgins and Elizabeth Baughman, were married February 14, 1844, and took up their residence in Cass Township, this county. The mother had been born in that township December 10, 1828, and the father had opened his eyes to the light in Kentucky, March 4, 1820. They occupied a farm in the township mentioned until the death of the husband, October 27, 1883. The widow remained at the old home two years, then took up her residence with her daughter, Mrs. Ellen Landis, with whom she still makes her home. 
    
Our subject was born October 25, 1852, being the fourth son in a family that included seven sons and two daughters. He received his education in the district schools of his native township, and resided under the parental roof until his marriage, which was solemnized December 20, 1883. He then established his own home on the homestead, remaining there until the 1st of March, 1889, when he took possession of his present place of abode. 
    
The property purchased by Mr. Higgins consists of two hundred and forty acres on section 25, Deerfield Township, upon which the various improvements had been made that make it a desirable place of residence. The dwelling is a two-story brick structure, well built, and designed with a view to the comfort of the occupants, the main part being 18x36 feet, with an "L" of the same size. It contains eight large rooms with porches, etc., and has pleasant surroundings. The barn is 36x40 feet, with an immense shed attached 16x80 feet in size, affording adequate shelter for a large number of animals, and much fodder. 
    
The charming woman who has the oversight over the home and household affairs, was formerly Miss Sarah E. Heller. She was born in Deerfield Township, September 17, 1858, to worthy parents who gave her a good education and home care. Her father, John J. Heller, was born in Ashland County, Ohio, and died March 29, 1879, at the age of forty-nine years. Her mother, Lydia (Zimmerman) Heller, who is still living, is a native of Deerfield Township. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins have three little sons: Howard C., born September 25, 1884; Charles M., June 6, 1886, and Boyd V., January 31, 1890. 
    
Mr. Higgins takes no active part in political work other than to deposit a Democratic ballot upon election day. He evinces no desire for public office, but served satisfactorily as Collector in Cass Township. He is a member of South Fiatt Grange, No. 1644. 
   
The reader will notice on another page, a view of the pleasant homestead of Mr. Higgins. [page 491--sorry, picture not available on this website at this time]