RALPH JIBBEN
Ralph Jibben, farmer, Malone Township, Tazewell County, was born in Germany, July 17, 1847, son of Folke and Altzo (Smith) Jibben. His paternal grandparents, Randolph and Anna Jibben, as well as his maternal grandparents, Dietrich and Agtga (Smith) Smith, were all born in Germany. Ralph Jibben was educated in his native country, and locating in Tazewell County in 1866, began his life- work as a farmer, in which he has been highly successful and now owns a fine and well appointed farm of 226 1-2 acres. In early life he operated a threshing machine, and has always been an honorable and industrious man. His character and standing have been recognized by his appointment and election to various local positions, having served four years as Deputy Sheriff, nine years as Constable, eight years as School Director and Road Master four years. Mr. Jibben’s first wife was a Miss Hulst, daughter of Gugen and Grace (Sanhoster) Hulst, natives of Germany, who came to the United States at an early day, and are now deceased. Mrs. Jibben died leaving four children: George, Frank, Grace and Ella. Mr. Jibben married as his second wife Miss Zimmerman, daughter of Jackson and Sadie Zimmerman, who came from the Fatherland and located in Pennsylvania, but later removed to Mason County, Ill., where the father died, while the mother still survives, residing with her son Reuben. By Mr. Jibben’s second marriage there were four children: Sadie, Ida, Emma and Maggie. On July 12, 1900, Mr. Jibben was married, in Peoria, Ill., to Miss Maggie Weers, who was born in 1880.
Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Tazewell County - page 1031