FRANK W. WITTER, The genuine western spirit of enterprise and progress is exemplified in the careers of such men as Frank W. Witter, of Van Buren Township-men whose laudable ambition, persevering determination and energetic natures have enabled them to conquer many adverse circumstances and surmount numerous obstacles, and to advance steadily to a leading position in their chosen walks of life, A resident of Van Buren Township for upwards of a quarter of a century, Mr. Witter has during this time gained the high regard of his fellow- citizens by his genuine worth, and as the owner of 170 acres of land, all acquired through the medium of his own efforts, he is today recognized as one of the leading representatives of the best farming interests of his community, He is a native of Indiana, having been born near the city of Liberty, Union County, May 13, 1865, and is a son of Henry and Mary A. (Moss) Witter.
Henry Witter was born in Union County, Indiana, and still makes his home on the old farm near Liberty, where he has carried on successful farming ventures through many years. He and his wife have had ten children, namely: Charles; Lizzie, who is the wife of Mr. Ardery; Frank W., of this review; Riley: Elmer; Ollie, who is deceased; Etta; Willie, who is now in the United States government service in the Philippine Islands; Clarence; and Inda.
Frank W. Witter obtained his education at the old Witter school in Union County, so named because it was located on his father’s place, and during this time was thoroughly trained in agricultural pursuits while assisting his father and brothers in the work of the home place, He remained with his father until he was twenty-three years of age, and then struck out for himself, beginning his operations in Union County and coming to Madison County about the year 1888, Here he first located on a farm of sixty acres, located on what is now known as the Witter gravel road, about one and one-half miles northeast of Summitille, and to this he has added from time to time until he now has 170 acres, all under a high state of cultivation: He has cultivated this land until it now pays him handsomely for his labors and bumper crops give eloquent evidence of Mr. Witter’s ability as a farmer, He has a fine herd of sleek, well-fed cattle, raises high grade horses, and also deals extensively in hogs and sheep, and in all of his transactions shows himself to be an able and honorable man of business, It is always pleasant to trace the history of a man who has won a high place in the respect and esteem of his fellow men by his own intrinsic worth and merit, and such a sterling citizen Mr. Witter undoubtedly is, He has made the interests of his community those of his own, and while he has not served in public offices has aided in securing good men and measures for his community, thus contributing materially to its welfare, In his political views he is a Republican, while his religious connection is with the Methodist Episcopal church.
On February 16, 1888, Mr. Witter was married to Miss Susie Shanklin, born near Cottage Grove, Indiana, daughter of John and Fannie (Miller) Shanklin, who came from Butler County, Ohio, Mr. and Mrs. Witter have no children.