Griffith C. Owen
Griffith C. Owen, general farmer and representative citizen, residing on his valuable property in Scioto Township, which comprises 193 acres of well-cultivated land, was born on this farm, October 11, 1847. His parents were John P. and Sarah (Warren) Owen.
John P. Owen was born in Wales. In 1826 he came to America and resided in Oneida County, New York, until about 1834, when he came to Delaware County, Ohio. He was a carpenter and worked at his trade in different sections of the country, passing ten years in Louisiana. After he returned to Ohio he married and then settled on the farm which is now the property of his son, Griffith C. Only three acres had been cleared, and his first home was in a little log cabin which had been left by the former owner. This was replaced in 1870, by the handsome brick residence now standing. On this place, John P. Owen and wife spent the remainder of their lives, which were years of industry, peace and good will toward all who came to their hospitable hearth. Mrs. Owen, whose maiden name was Sarah Warren, was born in Ross County, Ohio, and died May 8, 1877. She had survived her husband some years, his death having taken place December 1. 1874.
Griffith C. Owen was reared on the homestead farm, which he assisted his father in clearing and developing, and he has followed agriculture as an occupation from his youth up. The cultivating of his broad fields, and adding to his flocks and herds, have engaged his chief attention, but he has also given some time to public business. Politically a Democrat, he was elected on that ticket trustee of Scioto Township and also justice of the peace, serving in the latter capacity for two years.
.Mr. Owen was married first, January 27. 1870, to Melissa McFarlin, who was born March 4, 1847, m Delaware County, Ohio, and died November 10, 1899, leaving nine children—John W., Charles L.. Frank R., James W. Arnold G., George S., Roy A., Gertrude E., and Ollie M. Mr. Owen was married secondly to Clara Ciller, who is a daughter of Augustus Giller, of Lima, Ohio. Mr. Owen has been identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for many years. He belongs to the Encampment and is past grand of Olentangy Lodge, at Delaware.
From 20th Century History of Delaware County, Ohio, and Representative Citizens by James R. Lytle