Transcription contributed by Arne H Trelvik 3 Aug 2005

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ROBERT COOK, merchant, P. O., Foster's Crossings. This gentleman, whose name heads this sketch, was born in the County of Donegal, near Londonderry, Ireland, in the year 1831, of humble parentage. At the age of 20 he concluded to seek his fortune in the new world. He embarked from Liverpool, and landed in New Orleans, in 1851. His voyage was uneventful. He came up the Mississippi to Cincinnati, and from there went to Hillsboro, in Highland County, and worked during the summer on a railroad running from Hillsboro to Chillicothe, from which place he went to Lebanon and engaged with the contractors of the then Cincinnati, Lebanon & Xenia R. R., and now the Cincinnati Northern, remaining there a part of the year 1852. Tiring of railroading, he began working for Isaac Stubbs, on the farm and in the mill (Mr. Stubbs being largely engaged in both avocations). During the year 1858, being desirous of seeing some familiar faces, he visited Boston to see his brothers, who resided there. After spending a time very pleasantly he returned to Ohio and renewed his engagement with Mr. Stubbs, remaining with him until 1868. From here he went to Iowa, remaining about nine months, but, preferring old Warren to the newness of the west, he returned to Ohio and worked at different places. During the year 1872 he purchased the property he now occupies as a store room, and for the following 7 years did a successful business on his own account. In March, 1879, he entered into co-part-

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nership with Mr. B. Bolling, and they are now conducting a large and lucrative business. In their large and well-kept establishment can be found a complete stock of all lines of goods kept in a general retail store, and all who call to see them will be assured of good treatment. Cook & Bolling are also prominent dealers in coal, handling a number of car-loads during the year. Mr. Cook's business career has been a success, as he has accumulated quite a competency, and is taking life easily, looking after the outdoor business. He has never attached himself to any of the churches of the land, but has always been a Democrat, upon all national issues voting with that party.