W. H. MacKenzie
W. H. MacKenzie, a large brick manufacturer of Delphos, was born in Jackson township, Seneca County, Ohio, on the 7th of September, 1848, and is a son of Rev. John T. Mackenzie.
When he was four years old the parents of Mr. Mackenzie moved to Allen County, and settled on a farm in Spencer township, where he attended the district schools. When 21 years old he started into business for himself as a farmer, and until 15 years ago continued to be interested in agriculture. Since then he has operated one of the largest brick yards in the vicinity of Delphos. The capacity of his yard is 20,000 brick in an eight-hour day or nearly 1,000,000 in the season from April to November. Fully two-thirds of the brick manufactured are shipped away. Mr. Mackenzie purchased this plant in 1900 from Bour Brothers and under his management it grew into a large industry. The plant is located right at the clay banks and every facility has been added to ensure the quality of brick and its economic handling.
Mr. Mackenzie has been a very useful and public spirited citizen. During several years, when he served on the City Council, he devoted his energies to securing many city improvements, including permanent sidewalks and a fine sewer system.
Mr. Mackenzie married Amelia Steiger, daughter of an old pioneer of Allen County, the late George Steiger, who died in April, 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Mackenzie have one daughter, Laura Ann, who is the wife of G. Searles, a funeral director at Delphos. Mr. and Mrs. Searles have three children: Harold, Howard and Gladys.
Politically, Mr. Mackenzie has always been more or less active. He is one of the leading members of the United Brethren Church at Delphos, has been its treasurer for many years and has been its representative to the general conference. With his wife, Mr. Mackenzie has visited many parts of the United States from coast to coast. Mrs. Mackezie has made a most interesting collection of pictures and notes of these travels.