Simon Shaffer
Simon Shaffer, carpenter and farmer, P. O. Spencerville, was born in Shawnee Township, Allen Co., Ohio, July 6, 1849. His parents are still living, his father, Michael, a native of Pennsylvania and an early settler of Miami and Allen Counties, Ohio, being a farmer of Shawnee Township; his mother, Sarah (Whetstone) Shaffer, was born in Auglaize, this county. Their chldren, thirteen in number, are as follows: Henry, Simon, Nancy, John, Rebecca, Michael (deceased), Alford (deceased), Sarah, Amanda, William, Elza, George and luella. Our subject was raised on a farm, his education being limited to a few weeks each year in the common schools. Early in life he commenced to work at the carpenter's trade, which he has made his principal occupation, and he bears the reputation of being a first-class workman in every respect. He was united in marriage June 24, 18871, with Margaret Richardson, born May 17, 1854, daughter of G. W. Richardson, and to this union were born four children: Rosilla, Alby, Michael and Julia. When twenty-two years of age Mr. Shaffer removed to Auglaize County, this State, but returned to this county in 1879. For five years he has lived upon his farm in Amanda Township, and in 1882 erected thereon what is recognized as the finest frame barn in the county. He is a self-made man, having gained his property through habits of industry and economy. He purchased his time from his father before reaching maturity, paying for the same the sum of $182.50. Mr. Shaffer is an active member of the order of F. & A. M. at Spencerville. In politics he is identified with the Democratic party.
From "History of Allen County, Ohio," Warner, Beers & Co., Chicago, 1885