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Below is a family biography included in The History of Darke County, Ohio published by W. H. Beers & Co. in 1880.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

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ISAAC M. SHIELDS, farmer; P. O. Arcanum; was born in this county and township in 1846; his parents were Isaac and Elizabeth Shields, natives of Preble County, further record of whom is made in sketch of Patrick Shields. Mr Shields was married in 1864 to Ellen, daughter of Mathias and Amanda Weaver; further record of whom is made in sketch of Amanda Weaver. Mr. Shields has always followed farming, having bought and sold several farms, upon which he lived for longer or shorter times, until, in the spring of 1874, he bought the farm where he now lives, and moved on to it in spring of 1875, since which he has built a large brick house, a very fine barn and made other improvements, and has now one of the finest residences in the township. When Mr. Shields started in life, he had no capital of any amount; he is now owner of 280 acres of land, 220 now under good cultivation; this large property with all improvements he has become owner of by his own activity, industry and shrewd management, and is still a young man of 33 years of age, just in the prime of life; and, should his health be spared, he has every prospect of becoming one of the wealthiest men of the township. He is the father of seven children, six being now living, viz., Amanda E., Isaac Mathias, Susanna, Minnie Rosella, Elva Mariah and William Ray. He was one of those who, at the call of his country during the rebellion, allowed his patriotism to carry him forward to its defense; he enlisted early in the war in 1862, in the 110th Regiment, in Company B, O. V. L, and served through the war, returning safely to his loved ones at home. In this sketch, we are pleased to put upon the pages of the history of Darke County one of its citizens, a young man whose record shall stand a bright and shining light of industry, success and true patriotism to his children and children’s children, and all future generations, as a worthy example to follow; and if they do follow it, it will lead to the sure road to success and prosperity.

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This family biography is one of 659 biographies included in The History of Darke County, Ohio published in 1880 by W. H. Beers & Co.  For the complete description, click here: Darke County, Ohio History and Genealogy

View additional Darke County, Ohio family biographies here: Darke County, Ohio Biographies

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