Will County ILGenWeb Biographies..... ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. ************************************************ File contributed for use by: Dori Leekly & Margie Glenn Author: History of Will County IL, 1878 Erastus W. WILLARD, druggist books and stationery, Wilmington; born in Allegany Co., N. Y., Oct. 22, 1838; removed to Illinois in January, 1856, locating at Wilmington, where he engaged as clerk in the drug store of Dr. Matthew J. JOHNSON; this was the first store of its kind established in the city; Mr. WILLARD's present store contains a part of the furniture and fixtures of the former establishment, and, as a relic of former days, has in his possession a druggist's show-bottle, first owned by Dr. BOWEN, and then by HENDERSON & STEWART, from whom he purchased it and its contents, the latter said to have been manufactured at ALDEN's distillery, and the age now not less than 30 years. In 1860, he returned to his native State, and enlisted in the 23d N. Y. V. I., in April, 1861, remaining in the army till May, 1863; served as Chief Hospital Steward at Falls Church, Va., and after the army moved to other points, he was commissioned First Lieutenant in the 78th. N. Y. V. I., but did not muster; in May, 1863, he was appointed Enrolling Officer,. and during the following months enrolled the township of Friendship, Allegany Co.; returned to Illinois in September, 1863 and enlisted in the 138th IL V. I. the following April; commissioned First Lieutenant June 21, 1864. Engaged in his present business in 1865, and, two years later, built the store he now occupies. Married in 1871 to Miss Jessie B., daughter of Dr. Daniel and Jessie DUCK; she was born near London, England; two children - Francis D. and Erastus J. Mr. WILLARD is a member of the following Masonic bodies: Wilmington Lodge, No. 208, Wilmington Chapter, No. 142, and Joliet Commandery No. 4. Additional Comments: HISTORY OF WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS; Chicago: Wm LeBaron Jr & Co, 186 Dearborn Street, 1878.