He is a republican in politics. In the community where he has long resided none are more respected than Robert Whiteley. There is no estimating the force of a quiet life of patient continuance in well doing, of unswerving fidelity to the duties of the hour. As with beautiful flowers hidden behind stone walls, the very air scatters far and near the fragrance of an upright life. If the character is good it refreshes as the dew and makes the memory blessed for years after mother earth claims all that is mortal.
Every beautiful virtue shines out in the life and decks with royal purple the robe of humility.
The influence of a pure character is as potent in the office, the shop or factory as it is in the quiet of home or amid the worship of the sanctuary. The friends of Mr. Whiteley recognize the nobility of his nature and hold him in high esteem. One of our English-born fathers who had brought to this country the sterling qualities of the English yeomanry, Mr. Whiteley has made a success of agriculture in the Prairie State. He resides on section 9, Bird Township, and represents that township on the County Board of Supervisors. In 1844 he came to America, making the voyage in a sailing vessel and landing in New Orleans on March 17 of that year.