WILSON GRAGG of Centralia Township, is one of the honored pioneers of Marion County, who since an early day in its history has watched the growth and development of tliis region and aided in its upbuilding and advancement. The record of his life is as follows: A native of the state of Massachusetts, he was born in Berkshire County, on the 8th of August, 1834. On the paternal side he is of Scotch and Irish lineage, and comes from an old New England family.
His father, Samuel Gragg, was born and reared in Vermont. His family numbered eight children, four sons and four daughters, namely:
During the early boyhood of our subject, his parents removed to New Jersey, and he was there reared and educated, but when he had attained to man's estate he determined to make his home in the west, for he believed that that less thickly settled district furnished better opportunities to ambitious young men than the older states of the east.
Accordingly in 1855 Mr. Gragg left his old home and made a location in Berrien County, Mich., where he lived for two years. On the expiration of that period he came to Illinois, settling in Marion County. This was in 1858, and in the many years which have since come and gone he has known no other home.
In 1861 Mr. Gragg was joined in marriage with Miss Mary M. Baird, and by their union have been born eight children, who are yet living:
They have also lost two children.
Mr. and Mrs. Gragg began their domestic life upon the farm where they are still living. About 1877, he erected a beautiful brick residence, one of the finest country homes of the neighborhood. It is the abode of hospitality and the many friends of the family there delight to assemble. The farm comprises two hundred and eighty acres of rich and arable land, which is under a high state of cultivation and improved with all modern accessories and conveniences. The fields are well tilled, and the neat and thrifty appearance of the place indicates the careful supervision of the owner, who is recognized as one of Marion County's most practical and progressive farmers. In his political views Mr. Gragg is a stalwart Republican. The cause of education finds him a warm friend and he has done much for its advancement.
His wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and though he holds membership with no organization, he contributes liberally to the cause of religion.
Source: "Portrait and Biographical Record Clinton, Washington, Marion and Jefferson Counties, Illinois"
Chapman Publishing Co, Chicago, 1894
Pages 219-2220
Submitted by Sandy (Whalen) Bauer