E. M. Botkins
E. M. Botkins, a resident of Lima who for years was the leading liveryman of the city, was born in Shelby County, Ohio, in 1858. He was reared and educated in his native county, taking a course in the schools of Sidney, after which he began working by the month on a farm. He continued this work until about 1878 when he came to Lima and secured a position as fireman on the C., H. & D. Railway under Engineer John Black. Later he was promoted to the more responsible position of engineer and had charge of an engine for 14 years, after which he gave up railroading and engaged in the livery business with his brother W. S. Botkins.
Botkins Brothers had the misfortune to be burned our after they had been conducting their business but two and a half years, and from that time until August, 1905, E. M. Botkins continued the business by himself. He did a large business and accumulated sufficient means to enable him to retire from active work at that time. He has since employed his time in looking after his various business interests.
Mr. Botkins was married October 20, 1885, to Nellie Lepsit, daughter of the late William Lepsit, who was a well and favorably known conductor on the Pennsylvania Railroad up to the time of his death in the winter of 1895. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Botkins: Carrie, who graduated from the Lima High School, in the class of 1904, and Ruth, who is yet attending school. The family are members of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church and take an active interest in the church work. Mr. Botkins is a member of the I. O. O. F. During the 27 years of his residence in Lima he has made a host of friends by his honorable and upright demeanor.