JOSEPH H. CRESS
Joseph H. Cress, electrician and stationary engineer, was born at Winchester, Ohio, March 29, 1860 being the son of Nicholas and Mary (Heaton) Cress. His father was a native of Germany, emigrated to the United States, and died when the subject of this sketch was six years old. With his mother, Joseph came to Delavan, Tazewell County, in 1871, where he attended the public schools and graduated from the city high school. He was then employed as a traveling salesman and collector by a hardware firm, and in 1890, when the Royal Light and Power Company of Delavan, was organized, was appointed principal electrician. In 1898 was placed in charge of the engineering department, and at the present time most efficiently fills both of these positions.
In his religious belief Mr. Cress is a Protestant, and politically casts his vote with the Democratic party. On January 19, I888, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Berger, at Pontiac, Ill. Personally. Mr. Cress possesses a strong character, is of a genial disposition, and is always ready to extend a helping hand to those in need.
Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Tazewell County - page 991