D. E. Stallsmith

    D. E. Stallsmith, general blacksmith and proprietor of the wagon works and repair shop in Hartford City, is a native of Indiana, born in Fayette County, February 1, 1846, a son of George and Margaret (Trotell) Stallsmith, being natives of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and of German ancestry. They came to Indiana in 1838, first locating in Fayette County.

    Jacob and John Stallsmith, brothers of George, came to Indiana at the same time, and all three were carpenters by trade. George Stallsmith came with his family to Blackford County in 1846, and in the fall of the same year began making a home out of the forest. They passed through many of the hardships and trials incident to pioneer life, but by industry and good management they secured a good home, and lived to enjoy the work of toil. The father is now living in Hartford City. The mother is deceased, her death occurring January 25, 1887.

    D. E. Stallsmith, the subject of this sketch, was reared to the avocation of farming, receiving his education in the district schools. At the age of eighteen years he began learning the blacksmith's trade at Connersville, Fayette County, serving an apprenticeship. He worked at his trade at Connersville until 1873,when he came to Hartford City, and being a skillful and reliable workman, he has succeeded well in his business, building up a large trade, and by his fair and honorable dealings and genial disposition he has secured the confidence of all with whom he has business or social intercourse. Besides the lot and two shops where he carries on his business he is the owner of two good residence lots in Hartford City.

    Mr. Stallsmith was united in marriage August 6, 1868, to Miss Elizabeth R. Davis, who was born in Clarksburg, Franklin County, Indiana. They are the parents of two daughters, named Mary Margaret and Catherine Ann.

    In politics Mr. Stallsmith is a Republican. He has served as a member of the Hartford City Council, giving satisfaction to his constituents. He is at present one of the directors of the Citizens' Gas Well. He is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 262, of Hartford City. He is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is trustee of the same.

Source: Biographical and Historical Record of Jay and Blackford Counties, Indiana by The Lewis Publishing Company, 1887.