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John Almer Thompson

John Almer Thompson, of Brush Creek. In the life of this well-known business man is exemplified what a poor boy can accomplish by push, energy, and enterprise. Others might follow in his footsteps and bring success to themselves, and the story of his life here given may serve to encourage some youth who is now struggling along on life's journey. Mr. Thompson was born on the 3d of May, 1854, in Carroll County, Ohio, his parents being Morris J. and Sarah J. (Brown) Thompson, a sketch of whom will be found on another page of this work. In 1855, when he was less than a year old, his family removed to this county and in consequence he is numbered among its early settlers. The advantages of his youth were limited. Until seventeen years of age he spent his time in the district schools or at work on his father's farm. At that age he commenced his career in mercantile life. Having clerked respectively for Messrs. Fred Glime, O. H. Osborn and Amos Rittenhouse, he embarked in business for himself, dealing in notions. His capital amounted to only $45, but by careful investments, good management and enterprise, this was increased and his stock also grew. First he added groceries, then boots and shoes and finally dry-goods, and the building in which he carries on operations, a structure 20X100 feet, is his own property. Besides this he owns a flour room. Thus has grown up one of the leading mercantile establishments of Brush Creek. In the seventeen years in which he has carried on business Mr. Thompson has had two partners, his brother-in-law John Carnall and H. M. Bailey, but is now sole proprietor.

On the 27th of May, 1875, Mr. Thompson led to the marriage altar Miss Anna D., daughter of James and Caroline (Nicholson) Carnall, who has been of great help in making his business a success. She is a native of Upper Canada where her birth occurred May 27, 1851. Unto them have been born six children - James M., Mabel S., Archie, George S., Carrie S. and Ben. Harrison. The parents are both members of the Christian Church of Brush Creek.

Since attaining his majority Mr. Thompson has been a stalwart Republican and has been the choice of that party for several official positions. In 1884 he was elected a member of the Board of County Commissioners, which position he has filled acceptably since. It was he and D. W. Clements who saved the Republican ticket from total defeat in November, 1890, they being the only successful candidates, a fact which speaks well for their popularity and efficiency. Mr. Thompson was also a member of the first Town Council. In addition to his mercantile interests he owns a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which materially increases his income. Thirty-five years mark the period of his residence in this county. Both in business and official capacities he is well known, and the high regard in which he is held is due to the just and courteous manner in which he deals with all. In the truest sense he is a self-made man."