Born in Pocklington, England. About 1818, he came with father, stepmother, and siblings to America on the ship "Fair Trader", 9 weeks and 3 days. Son of Robert & Elizabeth (Brigham) Harrison. Husband of Susan Mary Evans, m. Mar 13, 1832 in Martinsburg, VA (later WV). Arrived in Peoria County, IL in 1834 with wife and 1-yr-old son John Richard.

Henry Republican (Henry, Illinois)
August 24, 1882

"James Harrison, the subject of this sketch, was born at Peckington, Yorkshire, England, March 4, 1809, where he lived until the year 1822. At the age of 13, he sailed with his parents for this country, taking passage in the ship Fair Trader. After a stormy voyage, which lasted nine weeks and three days, they arrived in America, settling in Virginia.

Mr. Harrison remained with his parents, until the year 1832, when, having arrived at the age of 33, he was married to Susan Mary Evans by whom were born to him 11 children, 10 of whom reached maturity and nine still live to mourn his loss. In 1834, with his family, Mr. Harrison started for Illinois, traveling by land with one horse and a "carry-all." He arrived at Kickapoo, Peoria county, where he had some acquaintance, July 25. Being a blacksmith he soon became very useful.

He remained in Peoria county until the year 1864, when his health having failed him, hre removed to Henry, where he remained until his death. His last illness was quite brief. He was taken sick on the 6th, death coming to his relief on the 16th. His children were all present when he died. Those from a distance were John R., Robert W., and wife Harriet E. Little and husband, Absalom, Paul H. and wife, for Peoria county; Ira D. from Madison Co., Iowa; Susan E. Gregory, Weston, McLean Co., Ill. And James A and Jessie F. living at Henry. Wm. Harrison of Peoria county and Robert Harrison of Saratoga township, brothers of the deceased were also present."

Contributor: Steve Harrison (46893586) • [email protected]