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| Joseph McGill, farmer, sec 12, Deerfield Tp., (P.O.Altona), was born in Ireland, Nov. 17, 1812. His parents John and Jane (McGinnis) McGill, were natives of the Emerald Island, who emigrated to Canada about the year of 1838 and there died something like ten years afterwards. “Uncle Jo” belonged to the class which has struggled so long in the iron grip of the British aristocrats and monopolizers, and during the first 26 years of his life passed most of his time as a weaver, which trade he learned as early as his size and strength permitted. He accompanied his parents to Canada and for 20 years was a laborer. He came to Montcalm Co., Mich., in 1858, where he remained one year, removing thence to Mecosta County, and bought 80 acres of land in Deerfield Tp. He built a good frame house and barn and put his farm in condition, clearing 39 acres, but he always been a member of the family of his brother’s widow, Mrs. Phebe McGill, whose farm is adjoining. In the spring of ’83 he sold his farm to John Perry. Mr. McGill is a Methodist in religious views and a Republican in political faith and action. He has held the post of School Treasurer ten years. Although 72 years of age, he is a general favorite from his gentile and pleasant companionship. |