p. 201

            J. A. West, of the firm of Hollinshead & West, dealers in clothing and gentlemen’s furnishing goods at Morrison, was born April 8, 1856, in Clyde Township, Whiteside County.  He is a son of Benjamin and Mary (Whitley) West, and was reared on a farm, receiving a good common-school education.

            He came to Morrison when 21 years of age and entered the employ of Knox & Brown, grocers, as a salesman, operating in their interests two years.  He officiated in the same capacity for Brown Bros. and John Synder & Co., respectively, one year.  In 1881 he formed a partnership with R.P. Hollinshead and embarked in the business enterprise in which they are still jointly interested.  Their stock includes a full line of well assorted goods common to their business.  They own the building they are occupying.

            Mr. West is one of the Councilmen of Morrison, and he belongs to the Order of Odd Fellows