Peter Cartwright--(1 Sept. 1785-25 Sept. 1872)

Known for helping to develop Methodism as a circuit rider in Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois, Peter Cartwright was born three miles southeast. His library, which he carried in his saddlebag, included a Bible, a hymnal, and The Book of Discipline. Lacking formal education himself he encouraged it in others; several Midwestern colleges count him as a founder. In 1828 he was elected to the Illinois General Assembly. In 1832, he was one of four candidates elected in a field of thirteen; Abraham Lincoln ran eighth and lost. In 1846, Lincoln defeated Cartwright for Congress.