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JAMES A. HALL - The gentleman whose cognomen introduces these few brief paragraphs is an extensive landowner, living on section 11, Loami township. He was born January 23, 1821, in Franklin, W. Va., his parents being Samuel and Hannah Hall; the mother was born in the Old Dominion, the father in Kentucky. He was thirteen years old when he came with his mother to this county; the family consisted of eight children, six boys and two girls, six of whom are still living. She removed here with a team and a two horse carriage in company with her father and family. Her father's name was John Cunningham, and he died in 1836. After his death our subject's mother re-married, and he left home and followed farming and teaming principally.
On August 16, 1845, Mr. Hall was married to Elizabeth McGinnis, who survived until 1849, when she was called from time to eternity. She had two children, both deceased. By dint of energy and prudence, aided by the wise management of his wife in household matters, Mr. Hall had acquired one hundred and sixty acres of land. After having remained a widower until December 16, 1853, he contracted a second matrimonial alliance, wedding Margaret Darnielle, who bore him eight children, five of whom are now living. Mr. Hall has added to his landed estate until he now owns over six hundred acres worth $75 per acre. All is improved, and the home tract is made comfortable and remunerative by a number of substantial buildings which adorn it, and the other acquisitions to its primitive condition. Mr. Hall has made more money by raising and feeding hogs than in any other way.
For some years our subject has been filling the position of School Director and his continuance in the office year after year proves conclusively that his neighbors think well of his intelligence and zeal in the public welfare. When he became old enough to vote, Mr. Hall identified himself with the Whig party, retaining his connection therewith until 1856; he is now a Democrat. His large estate is a standing monument to the energy of his character, his good judgment regarding his investments and the industry which has marked the mature years of his life. Upright in his dealings, considerate in his relations with family and friends, Mr. Hall is looked upon as one of the best citizens of the county.