My Genealogy Hound

James Pepper, one of the substantial farmers of White Lake township, Oakland County, residing on his fine farm of 184 acres, situated in section 5, was born in Springfield township, Oakland County in 1844. He is a son of John and Mary (Elliott) Pepper, the former of whom was born in Ireland, and the latter in Canada.

John Pepper came to the United States in 1830 and settled in Oakland County, Michigan, locating a farm in section 24, Springfield township, on which he lived for 40 years, his death occurring in 1873, at the age of 69 years. By trade he was a weaver and at odd seasons worked at weaving, together with farming, at all times being a most worthy, industrious man. He was a consistent member of the Methodist Church, a class leader and superintendent of the Sunday-school. In politics he supported the Republican party. He married Mary Elliott, who was of Irish extraction. She died in 1880 aged 66 years. They had a family of 10 children born to them, the three survivors being: James, of this sketch; Sarah Jane, who married Christopher Weatherson, who is engaged with the firm of Rust, Coolidge & Company, at Chicago; and Mary C., who is the wife of John Aurand, of Springfield township, Oakland County.

James Pepper attended the district schools in his youth and later Albion Commercial College. His interests have always been centered in farming, every branch of which he is familiar with. His fine farm bears evidence of the care and attention it receives and stands among the best in the township. In 1872 Mr. Pepper was married to Mattie Garner, who was born in White Lake township in 1850, and is a daughter of Robert Garner. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Pepper; James E. and Mattie Lillian, the latter of whom is the wife of Malcolm Dickie, of New Haven. Mrs. Pepper is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Mr. Pepper is identified with the Republican party, and served as town clerk while living in Springfield township. For years he has been a notary public and a justice of the peace. He is one of the upright and reliable, citizens of the township in whom much trust is placed and is held in general esteem.