December 2004 - Frank Kidney
FRANK KIDNEY [Francis, Orsamus, John, James, Peter, Robert Isaac, John/Jan].
An extensive landowner and prosperous agriculturist of Carroll county is Frank Kidney, who is now serving his first term as county supervisor. He was born on his father's farm in Illinois, November 30, 1860, a son of Francis and Nancy (Eaton) Kidney.
The early years in the life of Frank Kidney did not differ particularly from those of other lads of the period and circumstances who were reared in the more sparsely settled districts of Illinois. In the acquirement of his education he attended the district schools in the vicinity of his home at such times as his assistance was not required in the work of the farm. He remained a member of the paternal household until he attained his majority, when he left home to begin his independent career as an agriculturist. He came to Richland township, Carroll county, in the spring of 1882 and eight years later he acquired his homestead. His farm contains three hundred and sixty acres of land on section 15, all of which is well improved and highly cultivated. It is rated as one of the valuable properties of the township and Mr. Kidney as one of the most capable and successful agriculturists.
On February 19, 1881, Mr. Kidney was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Kern, a daughter of James W. and Caroline (Town) Kern. The latter was the first white child born in Lee county, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Kidney have three children: Fred, Guy and Eula.
In matters of citizenship Mr. Kidney is numbered among the public-spirited and progressive citizens of the county, and at the last election was the successful candidate from his district for the position of supervisor.
Although he is only serving his first term Mr. Kidney is discharging the responsibilities of his office in a manner highly creditable to himself and constituency. One of the substantial farmers and stockmen of his section of the county, much of Mr. Kidney's attention has always been given to the breeding and raising of Percheron horses and highly bred sheep, which pursuits have resulted in very gratifying financial returns.