James M. Barnes
James M. Barnes came to Delaware from Newark, Ohio, about the year 1839, having just been admitted to the Bar. He soon became a law partner of the Hon. Charles Sweetser, which partnership continued until the year 1850, when he went to California by the Overland Route with a company of gold seekers. He returned in about two years, having obtained some success in the gathering of gold. He again began the practice of law and he did not fancy the profession as well as he did the making of money and he turned his attention to the manufacture of linseed oil. in which he was successful. He built the large linseed oil plant on the corner of Winter and Depot Streets, just opposite the Big Four depot, and he erected a large warehouse near the depot on the railroad lands and was in business there for many years. He was later elected mayor of the city of Delaware. Owing to failing health he quit business in Delaware and removed to the State of California where he died a number of years ago.
From 20th Century History of Delaware County, Ohio, and Representative Citizens, Edited and compiled by James R. Lytle, Delaware, Ohio, Biographical Publishing Co., Chicago, 1908