Person:George Cole (29)

Motto: "Deum Cole Regum Serva:, (honor God, Serve the King)

One of the oldest families to be found in English & Welsh records, its many members have distinguished them selves throughout the centuries in military affairs.

William Cole of Devonshire, England in 1243 is said to be the foun- der of the family. In later years another of the same branch was established in Twickenham just north of London.

One of the first of the family to reach the Colonies was James Cole who left his home in London & settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1632. Another James Cole followed & was one of the followers of the FamousClergy- man, Thomas Hooker of Massachusetts, who founded the city of Hartford, Connecticut.

Matthew Cole, son of the latter James, served in the Connecticut Militia during the war for Independence.

Early American history records the many contributions members of this family made in the political, social, and cultured affairs of our country

George Lee Cole, grandfather of William Lee. George Lee was a medium size man, lean, about 5 ft. 10 inches, his marriage with Linne starting with a few pots and pans, no assets or any assistance from family, he had a talent for business, trading cattle, farming, he accumulate during his life time a respectable estate. With each son's or daughter's marriage he gave to each a generous tract of land to build their home on, he also aided their finanical status by giving to them a cow, young calf, or a piece of farming equipment, etc. This exemplified his love of family and as head of the Cole clan, he was much respected & loved.

Per Bill Cole, George Lee Cole had the first store in Coal City.