J. F. Wilt
J. F. Wilt, a prominent and influential general merchant of Ashley, enjoying an extensive and lucrative patronage from the citizens of this community, was born October 3, 1849, in Clarion County, Pennsylvania, and is a son of John and Catherine Wilt, both of whom were natives of Germany, who located in Clarion County. Pennsylvania.
Mr. Wilt spent the first 17 years of his life in Clarion County, Pennsylvania, and on April 6, 1867, when about 17 years old, came to Ashley with James L. Wray, who established a general store on the site where Mr. Wilt's present store is located. He continued in the employ of Mr. Wray until the latter failed in business, when he sold out the stock for the receivers; after which he formed a partnership with Mr. Corbett, with whom he continued associated for five years. He then sold his interest in the firm and clerked for others for about five or six years. In 1882 he established his present business. He has gained an enviable reputation as an honest and up-to-date merchant, and his customers always receive prompt and courteous attention. He erected his present two-story building in 1883, having been previously located a few doors west. He carries a full line of dry goods and shoes and also a small line of groceries and notions. Mr. Wilt is a man of more than ordinary business ability, and the success attending his efforts has been well earned.
On October 28, 1877. Mr. Wilt was joined in marriage with Emma Clifton, who was born in Perry County, Ohio, and to them were born the following children: George Clayton, born August 3, 1878, died on December 15, 1880; Merril, born February 16, 1880, died January 2, 1881; Elizabeth Belle, born April 22, 1882, married L. K. Wornstaff, superintendent of the public schools of Ashley; Marie, born February 16. 1884; Marion Muriel, was born April 24, 1885, who is the wife of Ralph Davis, a teacher in the public schools; Genevieve, born August 19, 1889; and Harold, who was born in November, 1892, and died May 3. 1894. Politically identified with the Republican party, Mr. Wilt served six years as township clerk, was six years a member of the School Board, and for four years had charge of the postoffice of Ashley, during President Harrison's administration. He is a member of the Ashley Lodge, F. & A. M.
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