Samuel Sterling Mason
Samuel Sterling Mason, of Tiffin Township, was born at Old Kitanning, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, April 30, 1806. Came with his parents to Adams County in 1814. Was a farmer and shoemaker. His father died when Samuel was nine years old, he being the oldest child, and with his mother and five younger children, without any means, raised the family. He cleared one hundred acres of leases before he ever owned a foot of land. He married Lucinda Smith, and of this union the following children were born: Mary Ann, Almira, Samuel Smith, William Henry, George Richardson, Sarah Jane, John Wesley and Lewis Hamer. The subject of this sketch was of a military turn of mind. Was for years Captain and Colonel of the Adams County Militia. Raised a Company for the Mexican War, but did not get in. Belonged to the home guards in 1862-3 and was Drum Major. Politically a Jackson Democrat and never voted any other ticket. Had a genial disposition, and was an honest man. Served the people for twenty-four years as Justice of the Peace and one term as County Commissioner. Was a War Democrat, but was defeated by the soldier vote by twenty for a second term as Commissioner, when the county went six hundred Republican. He died April 28, 1878.
From "History of Adams County, Ohio from its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time" - by Nelson W. Evans and Emmons B. Stivers - West Union, Ohio - Published by E. B. Stivers - 1900