Biography of Frederick Mosiman

Frederick Mosiman, born on September 11, 1858, in Wells County, Indiana, became a notable figure in Elwood’s business community over his twenty-two years of residency. Initially a clerk, he advanced to manage the Wiley Department Store and later established his own shoe business, eventually partnering with his son, Ralph. A dedicated member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and civic-minded, Mosiman’s sustained success is attributed to his initiative and integrity, earning him respect in his community. He was married to Mary Ellen Keller, with whom he had three children.

Biography of Enoch E. Byrum

Enoch Bryum

Enoch E. Byrum, a prominent figure in the Church of God, was born in Randolph County, Indiana, on October 13, 1861. He was educated at Valparaiso University and Otterbein University, preparing for the ministry, which he entered in 1892. Byrum served as editor of the Gospel Trumpet and led the Gospel Trumpet Company, enhancing its publishing operations in Anderson, Indiana. An accomplished author, his works cover diverse religious themes. He was married twice and fathered six children, earning respect for his progressive and inclusive outlook on life and society.

Biography of Will G. Evans

Will G. Evans, born on September 5, 1887, in Irondale, Ohio, is a prominent businessman in Elwood, where he operates a pharmacy at Main and Sixteenth streets. After moving to Elwood at age ten, he pursued a career in pharmacy, graduating from the Indianapolis College of Pharmacy in 1910. He established his pharmacy in 1912 and has built a successful business. Married to Vivian Sigler, they have one daughter and are active members of the Baptist Church. Evans is also involved in local Masonic organizations.

Biography of George W. Pettigrew

George W. Pettigrew, born on January 8, 1858, in Madison County, Indiana, expanded his inherited land to 262.5 acres through dedicated farming and stock-raising, particularly of registered Shorthorn cattle. His parents, Samuel J. and Mary J. Pettigrew, settled in the area after moving from Virginia and Ohio. A prominent community member, Pettigrew built a notable home in 1907 and married Lavina Whelchel in 1879, with whom he had eight children. He is actively involved in the German Baptist church and local politics.

Biography of William P. Meyer

William P. Meyer, born July 6, 1890, in Tarentum, Pennsylvania, is a prominent figure in Elwood’s pharmacy scene. After moving to Elwood, he attended high school and began his career as a pharmacist at Green’s pharmacy. Following his graduation from the Indianapolis College of Pharmacy, he partnered with Mr. Green in 1911 to establish Green Meyer. Known for his progressive practices and customer care, Meyer has contributed significantly to the firm’s growth. He is a devoted Catholic, involved in local fraternal organizations, and a Democrat, though focused on his business.

Biography of Garland Hancock

Garland Hancock, born in 1887 in Madison County, Indiana, is an accomplished educator currently serving as superintendent of the north Anderson Schools. He graduated from Anderson High School and the University of Indiana, later becoming a leading figure in Madison County education. Garland’s family includes two sisters who also teach, and he is married to Cora Groundyke, with whom he has a son, Donald. In addition to his educational responsibilities, he manages a 140-acre farm, reflecting his commitment to both teaching and agriculture.

Biography of Hon. William G. Zerface

Hon. William G. Zerface, born on September 13, 1858, in Montgomery County, Indiana, has had a distinguished career as a lawyer, judge, and community member. Following education in local schools and law studies, he became a deputy prosecuting attorney before being elected as Judge of the Elwood City Court in 1904, a position he held until 1910. Known for his integrity and fairness, he transitioned to the real estate business post-retirement. Zerface’s family heritage includes pioneering roots in Indiana, and he has been active in civic organizations while maintaining a steadfast reputation as a respected Democrat.

Biography of Samuel Douglas Montgomery

Samuel Douglas Montgomery, born on April 18, 1859, in Butler County, Ohio, has served as the County assessor of Madison County since 1911. A long-time resident engaged in farming and stock raising, he gained trust through his successful management of agricultural ventures and public service. After marrying Mary C. Thomas in 1879, he raised five children while continuing his work in farming and community affairs. His leadership in the assessor’s office has earned him significant popularity and respect among local citizens.

Biography of Patrick S. Bradley

Patrick S. Bradley, born on May 14, 1854, in Brooklyn, New York, is the general manager of the Home Storage and Manufacturing Company in Elwood, Indiana. A self-made man, he has lived in Elwood for nearly twenty years, establishing a reputation for capability in business. After working with Standard Oil for over twenty-five years, he transitioned to managing a thriving manufacturing enterprise. Married to Elizabeth Doran, they have eleven children and are active members of the Catholic Church, maintaining a strong community presence.

Biography of Dr. Lot Edward Alexander

Lot E. Alexander

Dr. Lot Edward Alexander, a distinguished physician in Pendleton, Indiana, has served the community since 1879. Born in Pennsylvania to Scotch ancestry, he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1874. After his early medical career in the U.S. Navy, he settled in Pendleton, where he became a respected member of the local medical and civic communities. An active Republican and Methodist, he has held several leadership positions, including president of the Madison County Medical Society, and is affiliated with various fraternal organizations. Dr. Alexander married Carrie Boyd Hughes in 1879.

Biography of Charles H. Herring

Charles H. Herring, born on June 8, 1857, in New Albany, Indiana, exemplifies success through hard work and perseverance. After learning the furniture business in Indianapolis, he moved to Elwood and established a successful house furnishing store. His career reflects honorable business practices and dedication. Married to Mary A. Sullivan, he is active in various fraternal organizations and a committed Republican. Herring’s steady rise in the business community underscores his commitment to excellence, earning him respect from peers and citizens alike.

Biography of Charles L. Oldham

Charles L. Oldham, a prominent farmer from Fall Creek Township, was born in December 1866 in Champaign County, Illinois. He moved to Madison County with his family at four years old, receiving his education locally before pursuing farming. In 1888, he married Fannie J. Tyson, and they have one son, Orville W. Active in the community, Oldham is involved with the Methodist Episcopal Church and holds memberships in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. He has also participated in local politics as a Republican.

Biography of George W. Koons

George W. Koons, born on February 19, 1868, in Grant County, Indiana, has been an influential figure in Elwood for nearly thirty years. As assistant postmaster, he has significantly improved local mail services. A teacher for nine years before his postal career, Koons is a dedicated community member, serving on the board of education and as an elder in the Presbyterian Church. Married to Alice Gray, he has three children and is involved in local fraternal organizations and Republican politics.

Biography of Arthur Wolfe Brady

Arthur Wolfe Brady, born on January 13, 1865, in Muncie, Indiana, was the president of the Union Traction Company of Indiana and a prominent lawyer and politician. He was educated at Yale and the University of Michigan, practicing law from 1889 to 1904. Brady served as mayor of Muncie and became president of the state’s largest interurban transportation company in 1904. A Democrat, he had two marriages, first to Jane Ninde and then to Caroline H. McCulloch, and had two sons.

Biography of Charles L. Armington, M. D.

Charles L. Armington

Dr. Charles L. Armington, born in 1848 in Indiana, is a distinguished physician in Madison County with nearly 25 years of practice in Anderson. He is the son of Dr. John L. Armington, a notable pioneer doctor and Civil War surgeon. Dr. Charles Armington is a valedictorian graduate of the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons, having held various positions including County Coroner and city physician. Married to Emma Taffe, he is the father of three, including another doctor, continuing the family’s medical legacy.

Biography of Wallace B. Campbell

Wallace B. Campbell, a prominent figure in Anderson’s business community since 1895, initially made his mark as the editor and owner of the Anderson Herald, transforming it into a well-equipped printing establishment. Transitioning to real estate, he developed significant properties while serving as secretary of the Anderson Commercial Club, contributing to the city’s industrial growth. Born in Illinois in 1857, Campbell was educated at Indiana University and engaged in various educational and community service roles, including a pivotal position on the School Board. He married Sarah E. Tarney, who also significantly impacted education in the area.

Biography of Frank M. Greathouse

Frank M. Greathouse, born on August 16, 1859, in Hillsboro, Ohio, moved to Elwood, Indiana, over twenty-six years ago and began his career as a clerk. Through diligence and entrepreneurship, he established a successful clothing business in 1902. Greathouse is a Republican, a member of several fraternal organizations, and a landowner in Ohio. He married Roxey Brown in 1891, who hails from Madison County. Greathouse’s journey reflects his rise from humble beginnings to a prominent figure in Elwood’s business community.

Biography of Spencer Gorland Bevilhimer

Spencer Gorland Bevilhimer, born on September 12, 1845, in Franklin County, Indiana, became a notable figure in Madison County after his family settled there in 1849. A Civil War veteran, he served in the One Hundred and Thirtieth Indiana Infantry and participated in numerous engagements. Post-war, he established a successful farming career while supporting a family of nine children with his wife, Eliza J. Jenkins. A respected community member, he held leadership roles in the G.A.R. and the Masonic Order, and was active in the Methodist church and local politics.

Biography of Fred B. Fornshell

Fred B. Fornshell, born on March 14, 1885, in Van Wert, Ohio, is the editor and manager of the Elwood Call-Leader, following in his father’s footsteps. His father established the newspaper in Elwood after moving there in 1890. Fred began his career at the American Tin Plate Company before joining the Call-Leader office. He married Lola B. Callaway in 1908. A Republican, he is also involved in various fraternal organizations, and his family considers Elwood their long-standing home.

Biography of James W. Griffin

James W. Griffin, born on March 6, 1868, in Pittsboro, North Carolina, is an influential figure in Elwood’s insurance industry, serving as assistant superintendent of Prudential Life Insurance Company. He came from a lineage of farmers and military service, with his father, James D. Griffin, being a Confederate soldier. James W. transitioned from agricultural work to the insurance business in 1908 after years in manufacturing. He married Stella A. Luse in 1897, and they had five children. Griffin is active in his community and local church.