Jonathan Oglesbee, one of the early settlers of Clayton, was born in Frederick County, West Virginia, May 29, 1804. His parents were Isaiah and Phoebe (Painter) Oglesbee, of Scotch and Irish descent. The subject of this memoir was reared on a farm and received a limited education. When a boy his parents emigrated to Clinton County, Ohio, where they both died. After the death of his parents he went to Greene County, that State, and embarked in the mercantile business, which he prosecuted for eight years. In the meantime became acquainted with Hannah Parlett, whom he married Aug. 16, 1832. Four children blessed this union, viz.: Burthena, Joshua P., Harrison and James S., who died Aug. 6, 1868. Mrs. Oglesbee died in Clayton County, Ia., Aug. 18, 1879. Mr. Oglesbee came to Clayton County in 1857. Has held several local offices of trust in the gift of the people, among them that of Deputy Treasurer and was elected County Recorder, which office he held two years. In politics was an old line Whig, and at the time of the organization of the Republican party joined them and has affliated with them since, his first vote being cast for J.Q. Adams for President. source: History of Clayton
County, Iowa, 1882, p. 665 |