HON. MELBERN F. THOMPSON.

Hon. Melbern F. Thompson, of Van Wert, is representing his district in the state legislature and is proving farsighted and courageous in his loyalty to the best interests of the people. A native of Clinton county, Ohio, he was born in October, 1860, a son of W. J. and E. J. (Stephenson) Thompson, who removed to Decatur county, Iowa, in 1880. The father continued to follow agricultural pursuits until his demise, which occurred at Van Wert in 1905, when he was seventy-two years of age. He served in a number of township offices and was an active member of the Christian church. His wife, a native of Ohio, is still living and resides with the subject of this review.

Melbern F. Thompson entered Hedding College in Illinois after completing his public-school education and there prepared more fully for meeting the responsibilities of later life. He continued to reside upon the farm with his parents until he was eighteen years of age and then engaged in railroad service as telegraph operator and agent for nine years. He accompanied his parents to Iowa in 1880 and in 1892 took up his residence at Van Wert, Decatur county, where he has since resided. For ten years he engaged in the grain and lumber business but for the last eight years he has given his attention to farming and to dealing in real estate. All of his business ventures have proved successful and he has gained more than a competence. In 1912 he was chosen as state representative on the democratic ticket and is still serving in that capacity, his record being one of which he has every reason to be proud. He has also held other offices, as he was for eight years township clerk and has also served as town clerk, as councilman and as mayor. He is the acknowledged leader of the democratic party in his part of the state and his advice carries weight in party councils. He adheres to the Christian church, in whose teachings are found the guiding principles of his life, and his genuine worth of character has won him the respect of those who are associated with him.