My Genealogy Hound

DAVID A. HARSH, merchant, Arcanum. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Preble Co., Ohio, Dec. 25, 1838. His boyhood days were spent on his father’s farm till his 16th year, at which time he began his struggle in life alone and unaided, save by his indomitable will and energy. He was engaged in Indiana as teamster for about eight months, then abandoned the business and engaged in carpentering, which he followed for five years. In the beginning of the war, he volunteered in the 11th O. V, I, and served four months, when he was honorably discharged from the service. In 1861, he engaged in storekeeping in Hill Grove, Darke Co., but, on account of failing health, he was obliged to relinquish his business and seek the out-door employment of the farm, and for two years carried on a farm in Preble Co.; thence he went to Lewisburg, where he remained for six years; thence to Arcanum, and followed butchering for two years; he then followed various pursuits till July 4,1877, when he again engaged in the mercantile business, and, by judicious management, has built up a good trade, receiving his full share of the public patronage. He married Susanna Studebaker, daughter of D. and Elizabeth Studebaker, of Darke Co. Mr. and Mrs. Harsh are members of the Reformed Church and are zealous workers in the cause of religion. He is a member of the Libanius Lodge, No. 80, is in good standing, and his motto is onward and upward in the order.