Transcribed by: Mary Ann Kaylor

JOHN WESLEY THACKER. We are pleased to present here a brief biographical sketch of one of the well-known and highly respected agriculturists of Girard Township, whose social standing is such as to give him prominence in the community. He was born on his father's home farm in Nilwood Township, this county, July 24, 1854. His father, Zachariah and his mother, Nancy (Walker) Thacker, were the parents of seven children, and he was the third son. An extended sketch of Zacharish Thacker appears elsewhere in this volume, and we are gratified to have a double opportunity of calling attention to this interesting family.

The subject of this sketch was reared upon the home farm and soon as he was old enough to attend school, he began going to the district school, while at the same time making himself useful upon the farm. He grew up into a sturdy and healthy farmer's boy and became of great assistance to his father. He remained with his parents until his marriage which occurred just before he reached his majority.

The domestic life of Mr. Thacker has been a happy and prosperous one. He was married March 24, 1875 to Miss Christiana Garst, who has proved indeed a helpmate and a genial companion. To this excellent couple have been born five children, Della Ann; Cara May; Vernie Ellen; Mary John and Albert Harvey. These are all being trained to domestic duties as well as being given a good school education. They are also brought up in the Christian faith, and Mr. and Mrs. Thacker are conscientious and devoted members of the Baptist Church. They are leaders in thought in the farming community, being active members of the Union Grange. The Republican party embodies the political principles with which Mr. Thacker finds himself in harmony and while not in any sense an office seeker he is rejoined to see the prosperity of his party.