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JAMES M. MARTIN. The home of this genial, pleasant gentleman is situated on section 24, Cotton Hill Township, where he owns eighty acres of fertile land. This township has been almost the life-long home of Mr. Martin, as he was brought here when but a little child, and grew to manhood amid the scenes of farm life. His memory recalls many different scenes from those that now meet his view when he looks about him, and he realizes the changes that have taken place since his boyhood. He has been somewhat instrumental in accomplishing the result, and may well be proud of his connection with the development of a great State.
Our subject is of Southern parentage, both his father and mother having been born in Virginia. In the Old Dominion, George Martin and Leah Fahs were joined in the bonds of wedlock, and first set up their home. In a few years they removed to Ohio, and after sojourning there two years, changed their location to this county. The first twelve months spent here were in German Prairie, but they then settled on section 24, Cotton Hill Township, where they remained until called from time to eternity. They reared two sons and four daughters, our subject being the third in order of birth.
In Licking County, Ohio, the eyes of James M. Martin opened to the light of day June 15, 1832. He was reared to farm pursuits and chose to adopt his father's occupation as his own. On February 1, 1855, he led to the hymeneal altar a lady who proved her genuine worth in the household until April 24, 1879, when she entered into rest. She had borne the maiden name of Mary Williams and was born in this county December 26, 1836. She became the mother of seven children, named respectively: George B., Mary F., James H., John E., William L., Phoebe A., and Susan A.
Mr. Martin has held several local offices and discharged the duties pertaining thereto in a satisfactory manner. He was Township Supervisor and Assessor each one term, Highway commissioner three terms, and was also Constable, and was School Director twenty-four years. In politics he is identified with the Democratic party, in whose principles he firmly believes. He is highly regarded by his fellow men and the members of his family receive their due share of the respect and good will of the community.