John W. Leaverton was born in Greensboro, Maryland, in 1840. His father moved to Ohio, when John was but seven years old, settling on a farm. The son early learned to till the soil and worked as a farm laborer until '61 when he enlisted in the Untied State volunteer service in the army and was assigned to Co. H. 82d Ohio regiment.
The 82d regiment was in twenty important battles. John W. Leaverton has a peculiar military history, which in detail is indeed interesting, but our limited space forbids further mention.
In 1867, Mr. Leaverton married Miss Delilah Andrew, and five years later they moved to Palestine, purchased a farm east of town and Mr. L. has ever since been actively engaged in farming. J. W. has served his township and town in many offices. Has been assessor, supervisor, justice of the peace, and school director. In G. A. R. circles he was mustering officer in 1882, organizing the Posts of Palestine, Robinson, and Hutsonville. Was national aide de camp on A. D. Shaw's staff in 1900. Three times has held the same office in the State G. A. R. Mr. Leaverton was one of the organizers of the Crawford county regimental association of veterans of the Civil War. He is a man of unquestionable worth in his community. He has always lived close to the teaching of the golden rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Politically Mr. Leaverton is a staunch Republican, having cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln and is still voting this ticket. Has worked and fought for his party's sake.