Henry Challand, farmer, section 6, Clinton Township, is a son of Charles and Ann (Freeman) Challand, both natives of England, and residents in that country until their death. They were the parents of a family of 11 children, namely: Ann, Eliza, Charles, William, Mary E., Reuben, Henry, Sarah, Maria, George and Joseph.
Henry Challand, the subject of biographical notice, was born in England, Feb. 3, 1822. His education was received in the common schools of that country, and was limited on account of the financial condition of his parents. At the age of 12 years he set forth to carve a name and accumulate a competency for himself, first working on a farm, and then as a drayman. In 1847, he emigrated to Canada, where he lived seven years, and in the spring of 1854 came to DeKalb county and settled in Shabbona Township, where he purchased 89 acres of land. The land was situated partly in DeKalb and partly in Lee County, and after holding it for a year as owner he sold it. He “worked out” during that year, and purchased 80 acres in Afton Township on which he located and lived for sever years, and then sold.
In 1861, Mr. Challand purchased 190 acres in Clinton Township. He moved on this land and cultivated it until 1874, and then moved to the village of Waterman, still retaining possession of his land. He lived in the latter plac4e some seven years and then moved back upon his farm. Residing there a year, he again returned to Waterman, and two years later moved upon the farm again. He has resided in Waterman and on his farm since 1861. He is the owner of 365 acres of land in Clinton and Shabbona Townships, most of which is in a good state of cultivation. That he is a man of great energy and perseverance, his accomplishment of a purpose formed when 12 years old, namely, to procure a competency, is certain and positive proof. He has certainly accomplished that purpose, and to his own indomitable energy and pluck he may attribute its success.
Mr. Challand was the first married in England, to Miss Elizabeth Green, a native of that country. She emigrated with him to Canada, and there died, of “emigrant fever”. She bore him two children, namely Fredrick and Elizabeth. The second marriage of Mr. Challand occurred Oct.. 31, 1849, and the lady of his choice was Miss Julia Bilney, of English Parentage, and born in Canada. She was the mother of 10 children by Mr. Challand, Namely: Elizabeth A., Freeman, Mary, Jemima, Julia, Sarah, Margaret A., Walter, Esther R., Rosa and Eliza. Mrs. Challand died in Clinton Township, in July, 1872.
Mr. Challand was a third time married, at Sandwich, this county, Jan. 12, 1873, to Mrs. Emily Fassett, widow of Henry R. Fassett. He was born Nov. 7 , 1836 and died May 4, 1871. Mrs. C. is the daughter of Elijah and Mary A. (Bilney) Hardiman. She was born in Canada, Sept. 19, 1842. By her first marriage she had two children: John H. and Antoinette, the latter of whom is deceased. The issue of her second marriage is three children: Frank W., Gracie A. and Charles H., all living.
Mr. and Mrs. Challand are both members of Wesleyan Methodist Church. Politically, Mr. Challand is a Democrat. He has held the office of Overseer of Highways and School Director.