Was born in White county, Illinois, November 25th, 1825, and remained there until the year 1834, when he moved
with his parents to Green county, where he remained two years, and then removed to Pike county, Illinois. He continued
to remain at home until 1850, when he went to California, remaining two years. Having met with good success while
there, he returned home, after which he located in the town of Milton, and built the first steam saw mill in that
place. He remained in the lumber business about one year, and then engaged in the tin business in Milton, which
he carried on till 1869. In 1853 he married Miss Amanda A. Shock. The fruits of their marriage were three children.
In 1861, Mrs. Grimes departed this life, and in 1863 Mr. Grimes married Miss Nancy J. Greathouse. He continued
to live in Milton until 1869, when he was elected clerk of Pike county, the duties of which office he continues
to discharge to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. He is perhaps the youngest man that was ever elected
county clerk in this county. But his ability and moral character is sufficient guarantee for the correct and faithful
discharge of his duty. Mr. Grimes had held about all the local offices in his township, prior to his being elected
clerk. He is master of a good education, and has good musical talent; is well versed in the mysteries of Masonry,
both in the lower as well as the higher degree. He has devoted much of his time to the study of Masonry, and is
perhaps one of the brightest and best posted Masons in Pike county.
He highly appreciates the honorable order, and values its teachings as a part of his religion. He was the father
of five children, four of whom are living. He is a man who commands the confidence and respect of his entire acquaintance.