McDonough County Genealogical Society
Elias McFadden
Elias McFadden, his son David, and his nephew, Wylie McFadden, settled in Chalmers Township around 1827–1828, at the same time Bethel, Blandinsville, Industry, New Salem, and Scotland townships were being established. Unlike many early settlers, however, the McFaddens’ story ended in tragedy.
Soon after they arrived, John Wilson purchased the adjoining farm. According to the 1885 county history, tensions developed between families. In November 1834, a deputy sheriff went to levy Wylie McFadden’s property to satisfy a court judgment and asked Wilson to help haul away corn. While on the McFadden property, Elias led the men around the house, and David suddenly shot and killed Wilson.
A posse quickly formed. Elias was found calmly repairing a fence, and the weapon was discovered at his home. Tracks led to David’s house, where he was sitting at a shoemaker’s bench, seemingly unconcerned. Wylie, who had reportedly sought legal advice about killing a trespasser, was also arrested. He was later released, but Elias and David were tried in Rushville, found guilty, and sentenced to hang. On July 6, 1835, both were executed. The total cost of the trial and execution was less than $150.
Elias and David McFadden are buried in Old Macomb Cemetery, though their tombstones list a death date of June 27, 1835. Elias left his wife, Sarah, and two other children. David left behind his wife, Dorcas, and a son, Wade Hampton McFadden.
Elias had frequently appeared in local court records over tax and trespass matters and had served in the Black Hawk War in 1831.
Pioneers of the Past by Julie L. Terstriep, of the McDonough County Genealogical Society, facebook.com/ mcdcgs, www.mcdcgs.com/pioneers-of-the-past/
