Notes:

Polk was a native of Fordyce, Ark., and became a highly sucdcessful business man. At 16, he left home to attend the U. of Ark., where he spent 2 years, working to pay his way. He then went to St. Louis in 1894, where he worked for Ely, Walker & Co., wholesalers, while there also attending Browns Business Colelge. After graduation, Ely Walker recommended him to T. F. Brink of Nashville, Illinois, for a store managerial position. In 1897 he moved to Nashville, Illinois, and for the next 7 years, held that position with T. F. Brink Dry Goods Co. It was here that he met and married Ida.
After their marriage, they moved to Vandalia, Illinois, where Polk headed the firm of Atkinson & Brink. Mr. Brink was the silent partner, with Polk in full charge. In a few years he was sole owner of a thriving business. In 1914, he opened a second store in St. Elmo, Illinois, which continued till his death. At the time fo his death, a Mr. Mansfield had one-third interest in the Vandalia Store, which had a grocery dept. as well as dry goods, clothing and shoes. Polk was a very charitable man who did much to help the poor unfortunate and handicapped in his area.
From "Hoffmans 1662 - 1972"
Compiled by Bernice Reinhardt

THOMAS married HOHMAN IDA ELIZABETH in 2904. IDA (daughter of HOHMAN ERNST HENRY FREDERICK and HOFFMAN CAROLINE WILHEMINE) was born on 20 Apr 1876; died on 30 Jul 1928. [Group Sheet]

1. ATKINSON MARY BELLE
2. Living
3. ATKINSON HENRY EDWARD (BUDDY) was born on 5 Jan 1908; died on 12 Dec 1909 in Died of what was later thought to be polio..
4. ATKINSON BETSY DORIS was born on 25 Sep 1910; died on 18 Oct 1962.
5. Living