J. B. BRODMARKLE dealer in general hardware, farm machinery, etc., commenced this business by putting in a stock of agricultural implements, in connection with his blacksmithing business. In Jan., 1871, he added hardware, all of which lines he carried on until Jan., 1882, when he gave up his labors at the forge, giving his attention to his other business, in which he has secured a liberal patronage.

John B. Brodmarkle, one of the business men of Greenfield, was born April 2, 1836, in Allegheny county, Md., his parents being John and Ellen (Beall) Brodmarkle. His father was born in Allegheny county, Md., Jan. 18, 1804, and was of German extraction. His mother was born at the same place, in 1811, and was of Scotch descent. His grandfather was a soldier in the British army, and settled in Maryland, where he died. In 1839, his father left Maryland for Illinois, and on arriving here, settled in what is now Wrights township, where he resided until 1848, when he went to Scott county, remaining there until the spring of 1850. He then decided to go to California, but only went as far as St. Joseph, Mo., and while making the return trip to Greene county, was drowned while crossing the Mississippi, at St. Louis, Dec. 25, 1850. His wife died Jan. 18, 18942. They raised a family of three children, of whom John B. was the second. He grew to manhood in this county, receiving a common school education. he learned the trade of blacksmithing, which he followed until 1882. March 25, 1858, he was married to Eliza Lee, born in Monroe county, Ill., Dec. 21, 1840. By this union there are three children - J. Ed, born Jan. 29, 1860; Lizzie Lea, born Jan. 30, 1865; Ellen Love, born June 26, 1871. J. Ed received his education at the Greenfield high school, and during the year 1878, he took Horace Greeley's advice and went west, locating in Kansas. he, however, returned to the parental roof after a period of two years. In 1881, he engaged in business with his father, where he still continues. On the 28th of Oct, 1885, J. Ed Brodmarkle, of Greenfield, and Mae Worcester were united in marriage, at the residence of her father, F. A. Worcester, of Apple Creek Prairie, the ceremony being performed by Rev. D. R. Thompson, of White Hall. Mr. Brodmarkle, Jr., is a charter member of the K. of P. lodge, and is a member of the orchestra and band here. Lizzie Lea is a graduate of 1883, from the city high school, and is now occupying a position as teacher in that school, this being her second term. Mr. and Mrs. Brodmarkle are members in good standing of the M. E. church. Mr. Brodmarkle is now engaged in the general hardware and machinery business, mentioned above. In politics he is a republican, and he has held positions of trust both in the township and city. He is a member in good standing of both the Masonic and I.O.O.F. societies. Mr. Brodmarkle is one of Greenfield's most enterprising citizens, and takes an interest in everything which he deems beneficial to the city, or community residing therein, and is an energetic and prosperous business gentleman.