John Bland, a farmer, P. 0. Milford Center, was born in Rutledge County, Va., in 1825, and is a son of Samuel and Abigal (Pherris) Bland, of Virginia.  They settled in this county in 1839, and he died in Milford Center in 1877.  His estimable wife is yet living at the age of seventy-seven years.  Twelve children were born to them, nine of whom are living.  Our subject learned the cooper's trade, which he followed seven years.  His present estate consists in 194 acres, on which he located in 1874. In 1848, he was married to Margaret, daughter of Edward Kennedy.  Mrs. Bland died July 7, 1873.  Thirteen children were born to them, six of whom are living, viz.: Robert, John L., Emma, John J., Maggie and Joah.