James P. Baldwin

    James P. Baldwin, second son in a family of eight children, was born March 17, 1849, in Jennings County, Indiana. His parents, James M. and Sarah (Thomas), natives of Indiana, were married in Jennings County, where they settled, remaining until 1861, the father following merchandising. Removing thence to Martinsville, he went into the milling business, and three years later, his mill being destroyed by fire, he retired from business and is at present one of Martinsville's most influential citizens.

     The subject of this sketch was reared and educated in Martinsville. When sixteen years of age, he was employed as brakeman on the F. F. & M. R. R., where he remained six months, then for six months on the I. & V. R.R. as fireman, and afterward on the main line of the Indianapolis & St. Louis Railroad as fireman between La Fayette, Indiana and Cincinnati, Ohio, for some time. He was then given an engine, working in this capacity until 1872, after which he worked for one year of the F. F. & M. R. R. again. In 1873, he entered the employ of Johnson & Long, druggists, of Martinsville, for a short time, afterward forming a partnership with J. H. hart in the same business, and at present is so engaged doing a lucrative business.

     November 13, 1872, he was married to Maryetta K. Johnson, daughter of Dr. J. J. Johnson, one of the leading citizens of Martinsville. They had four children, none of whom are living. Mr. Baldwin and wife are identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is an active member in the Republican party.

He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is an active member in the Republican party.