Miner C. Crossley
Miner C. Crossley, one of Lima's leading citizens, extensively engaged in the buying and shipping of stock and a large owner of valuable real estate, is a native of Allen County, where he was born in 1857, in Perry township. He is a son of Ross and Phoebe (Apple) Crossley.
The father of Mr. Crossley was born in Lebanon County, Ohio, and came to Perry township, Allen County, Ohio, in 1832, with his parents who were among the pioneer families. At that time the present prosperous city of Lima, with its population of about 22,000, had but five houses. He was a brick manufacturer and made the first brick ever used in house to construction in the city. About 1890 he moved to Lima and built a fine brick structure on South Main street, 50 by 70 feet in dimensions. He also owned a handsome home on the corner of West Market and Baxter streets, where he died in 1899. he married Phoebe Apple, whose death preceded his own. Their children were: Henry, deceased; Isaiah, of Paulding County, Ohio; Cloyd, of Montana; Miner C., of this sketch; Elmer, deceased; Eddie, of Lima; Lavina, wife of Robert Hill, of Lima; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Tapscott, of Perry township; and Viola and Araminta, both residents of Lima.
Mr. Crossley was a lifelong Democrat, but had many interests outside politics. He owned a great deal of real estate in this locality and in many ways was one of the city's most representative citizens.
Miner C. Crossley was reared and educated in Perry township and engaged in farming and stock buying until 1889, when he came to Lima. Here he was engaged in a meat business until 1902 and for some years was largely interested in oil. He has disposed of all of the latter interests and is now engaged in extensive operations in the buying and shipping of stock. In 1892 he built the Crossley Block, a magnificent two-story building at Nos. 713- 715- 717 South Main street, and he owns other valuable property.
In 1878 Mr. Crossley was married to Rachel V. Cochrun, who is a daughter of J. C. Cochrun of German township, one of the first pioneers of Allen County. Mr. and Mrs. Crossley have one son, Clifford, who is engaged in the cigar business at Lima.
Politically, Mr. Crossley has always been identified with the Democratic party and has been in close touch with party leaders for a number of years. In 1902 he was his party's choice for county treasurer; he has served on the Democratic County Executive Committee many times.