My Genealogy Hound

Austin J. Taylor, one of the wealthy, retired farmers of Independence township, Oakland County, resides in one of the beautiful homes of Clarkston, but still retains his fine farm of 180 acres in section 4. He was born in Oxford township, Oakland County, October 7, 1844, and has always lived in this county. He is a son of John J. and Mary (Axford) Taylor, the latter of whom was born in New Jersey.

John J. Taylor was born in Pennsylvania, where he lived until the age of 22 years, and came to Michigan about 1830. He settled in Oxford township near Oakwood and first bought 80 acres of land which he later traded for 160 acres and held the latter tract until his death. He was one of the hardy pioneers, one of a band which is fast passing away, and, while he suffered many hardships, by his industry and sterling traits of character assisted in the development of his locality and in the founding there of schools and churches. He was obliged to go all the way to Detroit to have his wheat ground and contended with all the discouraging conditions which met the early settlers. He was a man of quiet, even temper and never had any trouble even with the Indians who frequently visited him in the early days. He was a consistent member of the Congregational Church at Oakwood. His parents had 14 children, four of whom still survive. His own children were seven in number, as follows: Mrs. Ruth Bennett, a widow, living in Detroit; Mrs. Jane Copeland, a widow, living in Oxford; Austin J., of this sketch; Duane, a farmer of Oxford township, Oakland County; Mrs. Viola Smith, a widow, living in Detroit; Mrs. Ellen Crawford, deceased; and Axford.

Austin J. Taylor, our subject, was for many years engaged extensively in general farming and stock raising, making a specialty of sheep and cattle, the former of Shropshire breed. Four years ago he retired from the active management of the farm and removed to the village, where he has been president of the Village Board ever since. He has filled many of the local offices, for 12 years serving on the School Board. He is a justice of the peace in whom the citizens repose full confidence and his decisions have met with the greatest satisfaction.

On September 26, 1866, Mr. Taylor was married to Josephine Omans who is a daughter of Jonathan Omans of Oakland County, and three children were born to them, viz: Mrs. Nora Miller, of Clarkston, who has one daughter, Josephine; Clara and Alta G. The family is connected with the Methodist Church. Fraternally, Mr. Taylor belongs to the Knights of the Maccabees and to Clarkston Grange, No. 275.