Davis Mackley Biography

This image and the biographical text are from the 1875 Atlas of Jackson County Ohio. Spelling and punctuation are as in the original book. The signature is in his own handwriting.

Mackley image

DAVIS MACKLEY,
Born in Gallia County, December 11th, 1818. Father removed to Jackson County in 1820 and settled in the woods. I lived on the same farm until 1847, then removed to Oak Hill and remained until January 5th, 1855, when I removed to Jackson, where I expect to remain. All my schooling was about nine months in a log school house. Taught school in the winter and occasionally in the summer from 1837 until 1854. Commenced reading law in 1845 and completed reading with Col. T. R Stanley. Admitted to the bar November 15th, 1849. Practised law with R. C. Hoffman from 1857 to 1860. W. A. Walden was also partner in 1859-60. Never had a desire for office, but was prosecuting attorney of Jackson County from 1855 to 1857; Mayor of Jackson in 1857; school examiner from 1867 to 1869; assistant assessor of Internal Revenue from 1862 to 1866. Took active part in politics; was a whig until the party ceased to exist; a republican ever since. Was an anti-slavery man since 1840. Voted for Van Buren in 1848, but in all other elections voted whig ticket. Wrote the political leaders for the Jackson Standard during the Fremont campaign. Became editor of the Standard in 1858, in connection with James Tripp. Bought the Standard office February 9th, 1861, and have been sole editor ever since, and have built up one of the finest offices in the State. The distinguishing features of the paper have been the individuality given it in the advocacy of justice to the negro, temperance, woman's rights, etc. My health was very poor all my life, but is improving as age comes on, always temperate, never using strong drink or tobacco. Was married July 3d, 1842 to Mary Steece, who died December 26th, 1856. Was married again October 5th, 1858 to Eliza Hawk, who is yet living. My first wife had seven children, five of whom are yet living. As to my character for honesty, morality, and being a good or bad citizen it does not become me to speak. I have been somewhat intolerant to my political opponents, but I have hosts of friends and but very few enemies.

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Last updated: Monday, 10-Sep-2018 15:58:59 MDT