Madison [Township]

Among the men whose history we are privileged to write in this Township, none has done more to advance our common interests than he whose life we attempt briefly to sketch. In the coming times perchance these lines may be read with increased interest, and fond memory linger around him who takes this method to offer a tribute of respect to his honored parents and loved brother, recollections of whom are fondly cherished. W. P. Sloan, son of John and Rebecca Sloan, was born in Miami County, April 12, 1832. His father in Ohio, March 3, 1799. He was reared on a farm, and for some time was teamster from Dayton to Cincinnati. He married Miss Rebecca Hosier, of Chambersburg, Montgomery County, Ohio, born January 25, 1813; the union of these two was solemnized October 21, 1831, and as a result four children were born, viz., Wilson P.; Robert, born January 25, 1835; John, born December 22, 1836; and Nancy J., born November 28, 1840. Robert died when young. During the war of the great Rebellion, John boldly went to the front. In the year 1863 he enlisted in the 93d Regiment of Volunteers, and served faithfully. This heroic man was in several engagements; but on the 23d June, 1864, he fell while defending his country's flag at Kenesaw Mountain. He was shot in the breast, and expired the following day. His father, John, Sr., died August 3, 1851; his wife died July 11, 1843. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics, the old gentleman was a Whig. Wilson was left motherless at eleven years of age, and at nineteen, fatherless. He struggled against seeming difficulties, working on a farm at eight dollars per month; yet still he toiled on, attending school and defraying his own expenses. Thus he patiently worked from year to year, and to-day he stands among Montgomery's most enterprising and respected citizens. In politics, he is a firm supporter of the Republican party. He is in favor of good schools. A fine view of his place may be seen on another page; also, two fine portraits, one of himself and one of his brother John, may be seen elsewhere. [Referring to another page in Everts 1875 Combination Atlas Map.]

We must not omit to mention that Wilson P. was chosen Second Lieutenant of the State Guards, and received his commission from Governor Todd. Nancy J., his sister, married Mr. M. K. Wengen, of this County; she is living in Van Wert County, Ohio. May the readers of these lines live respected like him whose memory we seek to perpetuate.