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            James Pettigrew, Postmaster at Rock Falls, was born July 8, 1827, at Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland.  When he was seven years of age his father, John Pettigrew, died; and his mother, nee Jane Allison, emigrated to this country and died in 1882.

            The subject of this sketch remained with his mother and took care of her while she lived, receiving in his younger days a common-school education; came to this country with his mother in the fall of 1843, spending the first winter in Sterling, Ill., and lived in Ogle County.until 1875, when he purchased a farm of 125 acres.  After working upon the place for a season he sold it, and in 1876 purchased his present residence.

            He has been elected Justice of the Peace four times.  He was a Justice for ten years in Ogle County, and was elected to the office at Rock Falls in the spring of 1876, and held it until he resigned to accept his present position as Postmaster.  He was Village Trustee for one term, Village Treasurer for four years, and has held minor offices.  He is a zealous Republican, a Trustee of the Congregational  Church, but no a member.  By his native talent and public service he has become a prominent man in his community.  He owns several lots in Rock Falls, besides the postoffice building on Main Street.