Born: Sullivan County, Indiana, 1834.
Died: Ipava, Illinois, 1911.
Dr. Breeden was a born leader of people. He came from Pike County, Illinois, about 1858, and settled in the village of Summum, in Fulton County, to practice medicine. At that time his material possessions consisted of his wife--a woman of superior mind and heart--one son, a pony, a dog, a little house furniture and his medicine-case. He began life there in a two-roomed house, in which he resided for a long time. His first concern was the formation of a church in his new home, after the primitive order, for he had learned the word of God and how to preach it.
He was chiefly instrumental in establishing the church in Summum, and its care devolved mainly upon him for many years. Besides, he was active in preaching the gospel in the communities around and about. Meanwhile, his work as a physician grew and increased and became very extensive. In this he was sincere, prudent, frank and kindly, so that his friends were counted by thousands. He was a genial and companionable man.
With the acquisition of property his liberality grew. He was the friend of every good cause and the liberal supporter of every good work. For a term of years he served well as a trustee of Eureka College. During his life and by his last will he contributed thousands of dollars to advance the kingdom of God. He was a brotherly man, skillful in his profession, successful in business and a good preacher as well. H. O. Breeden is his gifted son.