Page:Men of Mark in America vol 1.djvu/223



EVERIDGE, ALBERT J., LL.D.; United States senator, is a "Man of Mark" the record of whose life must be a source of encouragement and inspiration to any honest, intelligent, and resolute American youth who earnestly desires and really deserves to secure a high position of honor and usefulness. The story covers a period that is brief when gauged by years, but great if measured by achievement. It tells of one who at the age of sixteen was working in a logging camp, and at the age of thirty-eight had become an influential member of the upper house of congress. And this brilliant success was won in spite of poverty and without the aid of powerful political friends.

Mr. Beveridge was born at Highland, Ohio, October 6, 1862, the son of a farmer who never held public office, and on account of financial reverses was unable to provide for the education of his son. As a youth he was healthy and strong; and he was determined to make his way in the world. From earliest boyhood until he was fourteen years old he worked on a farm. At fourteen he obtained work with a railroad contractor; and the money thus earned he used to pay his board while he attended a high school. By studying nights and mornings as well as during school hours he completed the course before the term closed. He then found work in a logging camp. Although he was only a boy, his energy and skill soon won for him the position of foreman. He gave close attention to the business of his employers, but at the close of the day's work, while his companions were engaged in card playing and story telling, he diligently studied history and works on political economy. With the exception of a short term at school during the winter, he continued to work in logging camps for two years, at the end of which period he was prepared to enter college, but was without the means to pay the expenses of a college course. A friend who had confidence in his ability and integrity loaned him fifty dollars and advised him to begin a college course at once. He entered DePauw university;