Oquawka (Ill.) businessman, merchandiser, and financier.

Robert Moir was born in Forres, Elginshire, Scotland, on October 30, 1824. He immigrated to the United States in 1832, residing in New York until 1849, when he relocated to Oquawka, in Henderson County, Illinois. Oquawka then was a thriving river town which was expected to become a great metropolis. In that year also he married Mary Nicol and soon after began the firm of Robert Moir & Co. The firm originally consisted of four brothers, of whom only Robert lived beyond 1868.

The firm prospered from its many and varied business interests throughout the Midwest and the East, as well as from the West - from investments in land, cattle, railroads, grain, hogs, whiskey, lumber, and mining. In addition, the firm operated a private bank with extensive business in the surrounding area and Chicago. It was also a middleman for merchandise such as farm machinery, clothing and other dry goods. Letters and documents from prominent contemporary firms attest to the wide-ranging interests and importance of the Moir firm.

Moir’s shrewd business judgment, integrity, and success gained him the respect of his peers. He was noted for his mental vigor, tireless energy, and courtliness. Moir died in 1904.