Ceylon, son of Roswell P. and Mary (Hilliard) Sheffer, received a practical education in the schools of the neighborhood, and upon arriving at man’s estate became a prominent manufacturer of Shortsville, continuing for many years. He made the original Shortsville Iron Beam Plow, which was considered a very useful adjunct to the farm. He held a high position in the industries of the town, and was considered by all who knew him as an exemplary character and an active factor in promoting the best interests of the community. He followed the doctrines of the Presbyterian church, and in politics adhered to the principles of the Republican party. He married Emma Thatcher, born 1849. died October 14, 1883, daughter of Isaac and Ann Thatcher. Among their children was Edward Thatcher, see elsewhere.
Isaac Thatcher, father of Emma (Thatcher) Sheffer, was born in Ontario. Wayne county, New York, October 28, 1824, died March 25, 1910, at the age of almost eighty-six years, son of Joseph and Abigail (Durfee) Thatcher. When about seven years old his father died and he then left home and went to Clifton Springs, where he remained until he was fourteen years old, and then located in Shortsville and made his home there for several years. He later went to Albion and learned the trade of wagonmaker, remaining for four years, after which he returned to Shortsville and there spent the remainder of his life. He married Ann , who died September 5, 1898. Children: Emma, aforementioned as the wife of Ceylon Sheffer; Mrs Charles H. Davison: Dr. Edward Thatcher and Burritt Thatcher.
