BERRY HANAWALT

    Berry Hanawalt, a farmer, was born in Ross County, Ohio, December 11, 1843.  He is a son of Samuel and Catharine (Acton) Hanawalt, the former a native of Mifflin County, Penn., and the latter of Ross County, Ohio.  His father was born September 4, 1810, and his mother August 13, 1823.  Mr. Hanswalt's parents removed to Ross County, Ohio, in 1814 and died there-Mr. H. July 28, 1831, and Mrs. H. July 17, 1846.  Mrs. Hanawalt's father, Richard Acton, was a soldier in the war of 1812.  In October, 1850, our subject's parents came to Mill Creek Township, where Mr. Hanawalt had purchased eighty-three acres of land in 1847.  He increased his farm by subsequent purchases, till at his death he owned 216 acres.  He died January 21, 1874.  Mr. Hanawalt was a man of unusual force of character; he started in life a poor boy, and spent several years of his early manhood in supporting his mother, and caring for and educating his brothers and sisters.  He became a bankrupt once on account of securing others and was compelled to make a second start.  By his industry and energy he accumulated considerable property, leaving an estate valued at $11,200.  He was for several years an ardent and active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; his political affiliations were formerly with the Whigs, but of later years with the Republican party.  Berry, the eldest son, was reared on a farm till of age, and educated in the common schools.  October 5, 1865, he was married to Miss Rebecca J., daughter of Warret and Emily Owen.  Mrs. H. was born in Mill Creek Township, January 25, 1848.  Of their four children two are living-Charles, born October 11, 1866, and Jeanette, born January 24, 1868; Alpharetta, died June 13, 1868, and Samuel, born April 18, 1870, and died February 14, 1872.  Mr. Hanawalt located on his farm October 11, 1867.  He owns 104 1/2 acres of land and is engaged in farming and stock-raising.  He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  He is connected with the I. O. O. F.  He served as Township Trustee one term, and Treasurer two terms.