Biography - John M. Cusaac
JOHN M. CUSAAC. It is contrary to the principles of true political
economy to encourage celibacy and discourage marriage, and the historian
regrets the necessity of occasionally chronicling the fact that a man of
noble life, integrity and honor, has been content to live a life of single
blessedness and has not made for himself a true home by placing at his side
a companion who would double his joys and halve his sorrows. Yet when a
single life has been conducted so nobly and unselfishly as has that of our
subject, the writer willingly touches lightly upon this dereliction from
duty and is willing to paint in light colors the life of this worthy man.
Our subject was born in Perry County, Ohio, in 1825, being the son of Andrew
Cusaac, a native of Pennsylvania, and Jane Shaw, who was born in the same
State. His parents settled in Perry County, Ohio, in 1813 and there made
their home through life. Of their eight children two died in infancy.
William died in Perry County, Ohio, and Jane, who married Mr. Ensminger,
resides with our subject. Caroline married Jacob Dial and her death occurred
in June, 1890. Two children, James and Celia survive her. Mary married
Cornelius Axline and died in Muskingum County, Ohio, leaving two children,
William and Matilda. Lncinda is the wife of Robert Yost and Sarah M., an
unmarried sister, resides with our subject. Mr. Cusaac has ever been a kind
and affectionate brother to his sisters and their comfort and support in
times of trial.
Mr. Cusaac first located on section 29, Shelbyville Township, when he came
to this county, and he here purchased nearly eight hundred acres of land. In
this he was joined by his brother, A. J. About the year 1864 he purchased
the farm upon which he now resides and upon which he has erected a pleasant
home, excellent barns and other substantial and handsome improvements, so
that it is now counted as the best improved farm in Shelbyville Township,
and comprises some four hundred acres of land. His political views bring him
into affiliation with the party which is proud to claim the names of
Jefferson and Jackson, but he is not a politician nor wire puller and has
steadfastly declined to accept office. He is a supporter of the Presbyterian
Church to which his sisters belong and is warmly interested in the cause of
Christianity, although not a church member. His industry, economy and thrift
have placed him upon a substantial footing and given him the respect of his
fellow-citizens. He settled in this county in 1866, and his pleasant home is
located just outside the city limits of Shelbyville.
Extracted 11 Jan 2018 by Norma Hass from 1891 Portrait and Biographical Record of Shelby and Moultrie Counties Illinois, page 291.
