Joseph Crain Orr, one of the earliest settlers in the county, was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, May 30, 1802. He was the eldest child of James Orr, who was born in Lancaster County, Penn., September 4, 1772.
     The early years of his life were passed at Franklin, Ohio, where he received a common-school education, and learned the tanner's trade. In 1826, he was married to Miss Levilette Dearth, at Springboro, Ohio. Ten children, eight of whom are now living, were the fruit of this long and happy union. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Orr emigrated to Michigan City, Ind. He was one of the first settlers in that place. He helped lay out the city, and built its first house.
     In 1836, he came to Grant County, Wis., where he entered and improved a farm on Blake's Prairie. Here three years afterward he removed his family, and here continued to reside till his death, April 11, 1881, a period of forty-five years. Mr. Orr will long be remembered in the community in which he for so many years resided. His was a strong, and in many respects peculiar character. Self-contained and taciturn almost to eccentricity, cautious and conservative to the last degree, he possessed remarkable clearness of judgement and great firmness of will.
     By nature silent and reserved, he mingled little in society; in manners quiet and unobtrusive, he neither sought nor desired notoriety or influence. But to character such as his, influence always comes. By deeds rather than by words, he impressed upon the community in which he lived for almost half a century, the abiding lessons of a singularly pure and honest life. In his personal affairs, his cautious prudence, his broad good sense, resolute will and sterling integrity brought abundant success.
     Too modest to seek political distinction, his practical knowledge of and sympathy with the public wants, and above all his uncompromising fidelity to every trust, brought him, in the early days of the county, into prominent notice. He was one of the Commissioners that first laid out most of the county roads, and at different times was a member of the County Board of Supervisors.
     Of good laws and good order he was the cordial supporter. In education he took a personal active interest. The schoolhouse and the university found in him a ready friend and patron. Though he never obtruded his personal views upon strangers, and rarely engaged in political discussions, upon all matters of public interest he held clear, intelligent and well-grounded opinions. In every cause he espoused, truth and right were the criterion of his choice, the end of his effort.
     In his domestic relations he was peculiarly happy. He was the kindest and most indulgent husband and parent. His large family of children, save one, who died in the war of the rebellion, grew to honorable manhood, and settled in life almost within sight of the paternal roof. His wife, the faithful companion of his long life, was his companion as well in death. Surviving him but a few weeks, she was laid by his side ere the grass was green upon his burial-place.

This biography generously submitted by Roxanne Munns.