William F. Mercer
William F. Mercer, druggist, Mt. Sterling, was born February 27, 1847 in Ross County, Ohio. He is a son of James M. Mercer, who served in the war of the late rebellion, and died of hemorrhage on the James River, Virginia, in December, 1864, and Elizabeth Mercer, who still resides in Ross County. The earlier portion of his youth was spent in Bainbridge, Ross county, where he received a liberal English education. In May, 1862, he enlisted as a private in the Mississippi Squadron, Federal service, and served for a period of four months. On September 29, 1870, he was united in marriage with Miss Lizzie Van Buskirk, daughter of Peter and Rebecca Van Buskirk. They have one daughter–Belle, born January 25, 1878. Since 1864, Mr. Mercer has been engaged more or less in different branches of trades. In March, 1882, as senior member, he formed a copartnership in the drug business with W. A. Basore, of Mt. Sterling, under the firm title W. F. Mercer & Co. Our subject has been moderately successful in business. He is a clever and agreeable gentleman, and a good salesman. He has established for himself a reliable business, and is a member of the Christian Church.
From HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY - W. H. Beers [Chicago, 1883]