One of nine children, 5 boys & 4 girls. 1897 moved with parents to farm west of Lockport Illinois. Worked for farmers from fall 1897 till Dec. 20th 1900 started work for Chicago and Alton Rail Road as Locomative Fireman at Roadhouse Illinois. Was promoted to engineer Oct. 30, 1905. Last Feb 7, 1947. Total earned - 119,017.74, miles - 1,630,910 = 65&1/4 times around world.