Noah Thornton
The character of a community is determined in a large measure by the lives of a comparatively few of its members. If its moral and intellectual status be good, if in a social way it is a pleasant place to live, if its reputation for the integrity of its citizens has extended into other localities, it will be found that the standards set by the leading men have been high and that their influence has been such as to mold the characters, and shape the lives of those with whom they mingle. In placing the subject of this sketch in the rank of such men. justice is rendered a biographical fact universally recognized throughout the locality honored with his citizenship. Mr. Thornton has contributed much to the material, civic and moral advancement of his community, while his admirable qualities and the straightforward, upright course of his daily life, have won for him the esteem and confidence of the circles in which he moves and has given him a reputation for integrity and correct conduct.
Noah Thornton, well known farmer of Union township, Fayette county, Ohio, was born on January 4, 1856, on what was known as the old Thornton farm, a portion of which is included in the subject's present farm home of two hundred acres. This home is situated on the Johnstown road, about three and one-half miles from Washington C. H. The subject is the son of Thomas R. and Mahaley (Harper) Thornton, the former of whom was born in Columbus, this state, and was a very prominent farmer of this section. In his youth Thomas B. Thornton was a bound boy, having been brought to this locality when a baby and bound out. He was a very ambitious chap and when a mere boy he began clearing land for his future home. At the time of his death he stood possessed of some six hundred acres of excellent farming lands. Being a man of keen intellect and possessed of more than ordinary civic pride, he took more than a passive interest in local community affairs and left the mark of his individuality upon much that relates to county history. He was the father of eight children, namely: Amos, James, Anderson (deceased), William, Ellen, Austin (deceased), Thomas and Noah, the immediate subject of this sketch.
Mr. Thornton received his education in the schools of Johnstown, and when quite a small boy began assisting the father in the work of the home farm. At the age of twenty he started farming on his own account, renting land from his father for this purpose. From the very first he has succeeded and is regarded as among the best agriculturists of the county.
On September 29, 1874, Mr. Thornton was united in marriage with Rebecca Hopkins, daughter of Wilham and Sophia (Crantz) Hopkins, and to their union have been born two children. The elder is Wilber, who married Alma Hooker and is the father of four children, Everett, Ursel, Kenneth and Velma. The subject's younger child is Ursel, who remains at home and is at present attending school.
Mr. Thornton's political affiliation is with the Republican party, in the affairs of which he takes a commendable interest. He is at present giving efficient service as a member of the school board and can always be counted upon to heartily endorse any movement for the betterment of the higher life of the community. He holds his religious affiliation with, the Seventh-day Adventist church and gives generously toward the support of the local organization. While a quiet, unassuming man whose best endeavors are extended in behalf of his home and family, Mr. Thornton is one who fully appreciates the duties of citizenship and makes an effort to add his quota to the advancement of the best interests of the community. The family is well liked and highly respected by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.
From History of Fayette County Ohio - Her People, Industries and Institutions by Frank M. Allen (1914, R. F. Bowen & Company, Inc.)