James G. Baird

        James G. Baird, one of the pioneers of Blackford County, and a representative citizen of Jackson Township, is a native of Ohio, born in Adams County, the date of his birth being March 9, 1822. His father, Joshua Baird, was also a native of Ohio, and was a son of James Baird, a native of Pennsylvania, whose father was born in Scotland. The father and grandfather of our subject were soldiers in the war of 1812. Joshua Baird married Miss Susan Gibson, who was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, but reared in Adams County, Ohio. They reared a family of four children -James G., the subject of this sketch; Thomas, who went to California in 1849, where he died in 1850; William, living in Adams County, Ohio, and Sarah Jane, who died in Ohio.

    James G. Baird grew to manhood in his native State, being reared to agricultural pursuits, which he has made his life work. He received such educational advantages as the common schools of that day afforded, but by close observation he received a good practical education. August 9, 1846, he was united in marriage to Miss Clarissa Leedom and to them have been born eight chidlren -William T., Henry R., John C., Jasper M., Sarah C., America and two daughters, Mary A. and Susan, who are deceased.

    In 1847, the year following his marriage, Mr. Baird came to Blackford County, Indiana, making the journey by team. He began life here right in the woods, not a stick of timber having been cut on his land. By persevering industry and god management he has made his land into one of the best farms in Jackson Township, having 167 acres of valuable land, 100 acres being well improved and under high cultivation. The log cabin old pioneer days has given way to his present commodious frame residence, and his barns and outbuildings are noticeably good. In politics Mr. Baird affiliates with the Democratic party. He has served seven years as supervisor, with credit to himself, and satisfaction to his constituents. He is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 262, of Harford City.

Source: Biographical and Historical Record of Jay and Blackford County, Indiana. The Lewis Publishing Co;, 1887. Page 835.