My Genealogy Hound

ORLANDO FRANCIS SERVISS, Auditor of Clark County, occupies a good position both in the business and social circles of Springfield, of which he has been a resident since 1875. He was born in Darke County, this State, June 4, 1850, and is the son of David and Julia Ann (Baker) Serviss, who were also natives of this State, the father born in 1825, in Clark County, and the mother near Dayton, Montgomery County. The paternal grandfather was William G. Serviss, one of the Associate Judges under the old constitution and one of the pioneers of Clark County. David Serviss was a practicing physician for many years in the western part of Clark County and died at his home in Mad River Township in 1862. The mother is still living, making her home with her son, our subject. The parental family included two children only, of whom Orlando is the only survivor. The daughter, Mary J., who was the wife of O. A. Layton, became the mother of two children and died.

Mr. Serviss obtained a practical education in the common schools, completing his studies at Enon, and at the early age of fifteen years became clerk in a dry-goods store, where he remained three years. In 1868 he began teaching school, and was thus occupied for about twelve years. In the meantime he was quite prominent in public affairs, holding various positions of trust and responsibility, and finally, in 1881, was elected Auditor of Clark County on the Republican ticket for a term of three years. So faithfully did he discharge the duties of this office that he has since remained the incumbent by successive re-elections, his present term expiring in September, 1891.

Our subject was joined in wedlock with Miss Caroline M., daughter of David and Maria (Miller) Hupman, in 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Hupman were natives of Virginia and came to Ohio, and were among the early pioneers; they now reside in Enon. To Mr. and Mrs. Serviss there have been born seven children, five sons and two daughters, namely: Clara S., George D., Francis W., Ida M., Charles E., James H. and Oscar F. Mr. Serviss, socially, belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 205, K. of P., and Lodge No. 101, F. & A. M., at Springfield. He is likewise a member of Springfield Chapter, R. A. M., and Palestine Commandery, K. T. In 1890 he was elected a member of the Board of Education. He has a neat and attractive home on Ferncliff Avenue, and, with his family, enjoys the society of the best people of his community.