My Genealogy Hound

JOSEPH D. LITTLE. One of the important industries of Clark County is that of the Springfield Fertilizer Company, whose works are located on East High Street, and who employ from thirty to forty men. The business was established in 1883 by L. M. Goode, F. A. Kissell and J. D. Little. They manufacture fertilizing agents, which find a ready sale in the East, and in which there is a large local trade. The subject of this brief biographical notice is of English and Scotch descent and a native of Monmouth County, N. J., where his eyes opened to the light March 30, 1840, His father, Thomas Little, died when Joseph was a lad of twelve years, and he was thrown somewhat on his own resources for support. Going to Philadelphia, Pa., he entered the employ of his uncle, A. W. Little, an extensive silk importer, in whose establishment he acquired a knowledge of that trade and good business habits.

Young Little remained with his uncle until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he became a member of a company which was composed of young men from the best Philadelphia families and known as the Anderson Troop. The company was formed into a battalion, and afterward, by the addition of other companies, into a regiment, and ordered to the front. It was not properly officered, however, and on receiving orders to engage in battle, they refused to move the regiment. Three companies of one hundred men each agreed to go into the fight if supplied with proper officers, which was done. During the battle nearly half the men were killed or taken prisoners, Mr. Little being one of the number captured by the enemy. He was taken to Libby Prison, where he remained until 1863, when he was paroled and sent to the Philadelphia hospital on account of sickness. There he received his final discharge.

After leaving the army, Mr. Little located in Muncie, Ind., where he embarked in mercantile business, selling out, however, a few months later. He then went to Dayton, Ohio, and engaged in the sale of agricultural implements. In 1867 he came to Springfield, entering the employ of Amos Whiteley & Co., manufacturers of reapers and mowers. He remained with that firm three years, at the expiration of that period becoming superintendent for the firm of Rinehart, Ballard & Co., afterward acquiring an interest in the concern. In 1882 the firm sold out to O. S. Kelly. Mr. Little then secured an interest in the Tricycle Manufacturing Company, of Springfield, which he disposed of upon the organization of the company to which he now belongs.

In 1875 Mr. Little was united in marriage with Miss Lucy Rinehart, of this city. Her parents are James W. and Caroline (Pennock) Rinehart, formerly of Greene County, Pa., in which she was born. She has borne her husband three children — Elizabeth R., Arthur W. and Joseph D., Jr. Mr. Little belongs to Clark Lodge, No. 101, F. & A. M., and to Springfield Chapter, No. 48, R.A.M. In politics he is a Republican, and is now representing the Eighth Ward in the City Council. Enterprising in business affairs, honorable as a man and citizen, and manifesting an intelligent interest in the movements which are for the good of the community, he receives the respect of many friends. His estimable wife, who was carefully reared and well educated, is also esteemed for her character and usefulness.