My Genealogy Hound

COLLINS, J. F. merchant, Greenfield. Among the “young settlers” of this township who are self-made and have attained success under discouraging circumstances, is the party whose name heads this sketch. John is a native born Greene Countian; first saw the light of day in town 10, range 11, May 17, 1833; is the youngest of a family of four children, born of John W. and Miriam C, her maiden name was Piper, her people being natives of Kentucky, while the Collins family are of Maryland. John left home at the age of 17, and struck out for himself, having but a dilapidated suit of jean’s, a home-made shirt, and not a copper in his pocket, yet he had willing hands and a determination to make something out of himself, these constituted his stock-in-trade; worked the first year on a farm; then went to learn the trade of a blacksmith with Cress & Barnett; worked the first two years at 12 ½ cents per day, and the third year at 25 cents per day, then worked the next year for them as journeyman; then associated with John Broadmarkle in the blacksmithing business, which partnership lasted two years; then associated with Jonathan Adams in same business until 1862, when he enlisted in the 91st Regt., Co. K, and was commissioned as 1st Lieut., remaining with the regiment eighteen months, when he was discharged at New Orleans on account of disability. In 1864 went into the mercantile business with Edward Wooley, associating with him three years; subsequent to this went into business with Ben. Allen in the mule trade; then bought out the interest of James Wooley in the drug business. In 1867, went into business with G. W. T. Sheffield, carrying a full line of goods; this was carried on successfully until 1875, Then associated with “Jap.”Johnson on west side Square, selling goods; in 1877 bought out Johnson’s interest, and has since continued at the same business; keeps dry goods, clothing, boots and shoes. Mr. Collins is known as an upright man, and conscientious in his dealings, and has been successful in business operations. Is a member of the Greenfield Lodge, A. F. and A. M., No. 129, also of the I. O. O. F. Was rocked in the cradle of “Whigism,” and died the hardest death of any man in the county (politically). Sept. 20, 1855, married Annie Mason, born May 4, 1837, she is a daughter of Dr. George Mason, town 10, range 11. Eight children have been born them, but four now living, viz.: Dr. Franklin, born April 1, 1866; Minnie H. born Dec. 26, 1869; John Mason, born Nov. 29, 1872; David Lynn, born March 26, 1875.