My Genealogy Hound

ALONZO L. AYER, a prominent farmer, came to Spencer County in 1858, and bought a farm in Hammond Township, where he lived upward of thirteen years. He then sold his farm and went to Wayne County, Ill., remaining one year, after which he removed to Kansas and entered a “soldier’s claim.” In a few months his house with all its contents was destroyed by fire, leaving the family nothing but the clothes on their backs. After another two years’ residence in Illinois, attended with much sickness in his family, he returned to this county and bought forty-three acres where he now lives. In August, 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Forty-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and took part with his regiment in the battles of Perryville, Stone River, Nashville and Atlanta. In the last-named campaign he was overheated by forced marching, and has never fully recovered from its effects. Mr. Ayer was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, May 6, 1834. His parents were Isaiah and Sarah (Martin) Ayer, natives of Maine and the “Old Dominion.” His father was a ship carpenter by trade, and died about 1843. His mother died about three years later. Alonzo received only a limited education in youth. July 9, 1858, he married Missouri J. McLane. They have six children. Both he and wife are members of the United Brethren Church.