Jacob M. Schaffner
Jacob M. Schaffner, formerly sheriff of Delaware County, and a public official of recognized worth, resides on his well-improved farm of twenty-seven acres, which is situated in Troy Township. Mr. Schaffner was born in this township. August 7, 1866, and is a son of John and Mary (Bowers) Schaffner.
The father of Mr. Schaffner was born in Switzerland and emigrated to America in 1854, locating in Troy Township, Delaware County, Ohio, in 1850, where his death took place in 1905. He was twice married and his first wife died in 1871 and his second wife in 1904. Seven children of both marriages survive, namely: John H., residing in Troy Township; Barbara L., who married S. R. Eckels, postmaster at Ashley. Ohio; Ida M., who married Isaac W. Kelchner, of Delaware, Ohio; Jacob M., subject of this sketch; Carrie D., who married E L. Jolly, residing in Troy Township; Clara B., residing in Troy Township and Clarence E., residing at Troyton, Ohio, where he is engaged in a mercantile business. The late John Schaffner was a well known and much respected citizen of Troy Township, of which he served as trustee for a number of years. In politics he was a Democrat. He belonged to the Reformed Church.
Jacob M. Schaffner was reared in Troy Township and obtained his education in the public schools. He assisted in the work on the home farm and also taught music for several years. From the age of maturity he has taken an active interest in politics, being a zealous Democrat, and in November, 1898, he was elected sheriff of Delaware County, and gave so excellent an administration of the office that in November. 1900, he was re-elected, being the first Democrat in Delaware County, who was ever elected to this office for two consecutive terms. For four succeeding years he performed the onerous duties of sheriff with the courage and impartiality that ensured him the support and confidence of all law-abiding citizens.
Mr. Schaffner was married March 19, 1896, to Louie M. Downing, who was born in Troy Township, and is a daughter of Oliver and Margaret Downing, of Delaware County. Mr. Schaffner is a member of Lenape Lodge, No. 29, Knights of Pythias.
From 20th Century History of Delaware County, Ohio, and Representative Citizens, Edited and compiled by James R. Lytle, Delaware, Ohio, Biographical Publishing Co., Chicago, 1908