Russell, J. (John), 1793-1863

Noted early Illinois literary figure, school teacher, author and editor. Russell and his wife Laura Ann Spencer Russell were early settlers of Bluffdale, Greene County, Illinois.

From the description of Papers, 1792-1927. (Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library). WorldCat record id: 23007629

John Russell was born in Cavendish, Vt., on July 31, 1793, his parents being John and Lucretia (Preston) Russell. He graduated from Middlebury College in Middlebury, Vt. (1818) and was married to Laura Ann Spencer at Whitewater, Ind., on Oct. 25, 1818. Russell taught at schools in Vermont, Georgia, Missouri, and Illinois before settling in Greene County, Ill., in 1828. He gave the name of Bluffdale to his premises, from which the township took its name. Russell received license as a preacher from the Baptist church at Bluffdale on Feb. 9, 1833. He was principal of Spring Hill Academy in East Feliciana Parish, La., for eight years, during which time he was also superintendent of public schools in the parish. Mr. and Mrs. John Russell were the parents of four children: Dr. William A.J., Juliet A.E., Spencer G., and Francis I. John Russell died Jan. 21, 1863, at Bluffdale, Ill.

From the description of John Russell letter, 1849 May 13. (Louisiana State University). WorldCat record id: 773590606