WILLIAM M. SPARKS, a native of the township where he now resides, 
was born
September 11, 1830,and is the only son of James and Betsey (Hamilton)
Sparks, the former coming with his father, Stephen, a soldier of the War of
1812, to Jackson County, Ind., in 1808.  James Sparks died August 3, 1865,
and his widow August 23, 1884.  William M. was raised by his parents to
manhood, selected farming for a life's occupation, and June 16, 1857, was
married to Miss Semira, daughter of Nathan S. and P. (White) Trueblood, by
whom he became the father of Laura H. and Adolphus M., the former dying
August 13, 1833 (?), and the latter in infancy.  His first wife dying, Mr.
Sparks married for his second wife Lydia A., daughter of George and Sarah
(Woody) Payne, February 23, 1869,and this family is the result of their
union:  James E, born June 9, 1870, died September 17, 1882;   Charley H.
born February 15, 1875, and Spence C., born May 7, 1882.  The mother's 
birth
occurred August 16, 1841.   Mr. Sparks began life's battle a poor boy but by
diligence and economy has secured a good farm of 231 acres, besides other
property.  He is a Democrat and one of the county's best citizens.


Data Entry Volunteer:  Diana Flynn  "ivie@tima.com"