Union County, Ohio Biographies Project - Owen Wilber

OWEN WILBER

    Owen Wilber, a farmer and the eldest son of James and Sarah Wilber, was born in Allen Township June 25, 1832.  His early life he spent on the homestead, and received his education, though very limited, in the district schools.  He with his brothers, aided in hewing down the forest and clearing up the old farm.  March 29, 1855, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah J., daughter of Samuel and Sarah J. Marsh.  Mrs. Wilber is a native of Virginia, was born March 9, 1841.  They have had two children-Alice L., wife of E. B. Morehouse, of Dayton, and A. D., the youngest; he married Sarah Snuffin.  Soon after his marriage Mr. Wilbur located on the farm he now occupies.  His occupation consists of agricultural and stock-raising, making a leading pursuit of keeping Poland-China hogs, and French and Clydesdale horses.  In 1861, he enlisted in the Ninty-sixth Regiment of Ohio Volunteers, but on account of disability was never mustered into the service.  May 2, 1864, he and his brother Edwin, volunteered their services in Company H, One Hundred and Thirty sixth Regiment Ohio National Guards, and served on garrison duty at Fort Ellsworth till discharged at Camp Chase, Ohio, August 31, 1864.  He then returned to his farm, and has been engaged in its pursuits successfully ever since.  He has liberally assisted in the construction of the pike improvements of his township and community.  He filled the office of Township Clerk four terms.  He and wife are members of the M. E. Church.  His political associations have always been with the Republican party.