Joseph V. Finley
Joseph V. Finley, one of the well-known and prominent farmers of Mechanic Township, is a son of George Finley, who was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1827. David Finley, the grandfather of Joseph V., emigrated from County Donegal, Ireland, and located in Jefferson County, Ohio, where he lived until his death. George Finley was reared in Jefferson County, and in 1841 married Miss Priscilla, daughter of Joseph Van Buskirk,, a native of Holland, and a settler of Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Immediately after marriage they came to Holmes County, and for two years lived upon rented farms; then they purchased 100 acres of land, now included in the farm of their son Joseph, and by hard work paid for the same. Starting in life single-handed he made himself well-to-do by his own efforts, owning over 300 acres of land. He was a prominent worker in the ranks of the Democratic party, and filled various township offices. He joined the Presbyterian Church in 1844, and was a prominent member until his death in 1875. His first wife died November 4, 1864, and he was subsequently married to Miss Finwell, daughter of Frederick Hall, of Berlin Township, who died April 29, 1877. Twelve children were born to the first union, none to the second, four grew to maturity, and are still living: Alice, wife of John G. Frizzell, of Stewart, Iowa; Joseph V.; John A., of Coshocton County, Ohio; Laura, wife of John T. Wages, of Fillmore County, Neb.
Joseph V. Finley was born on his present farm, November 5, 1843. He received his education at the township schools and the Berlin Academy. After finishing his schooling he in turn began to teach, and followed that occupation for nine winters. In 1875 he was united in marriage with Miss Julia, daughter of Mordecai R. Brink, of Killbuck Township, and they have eight children: Adah L., Alma E., George Clifford, Joseph Scott, Lelah May, Walter Leroy, Lloyd Stanton and John Elmer. Mr. Finley belongs to the Democratic party, and he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church of Millersburgh.
From Commemorative Biographical Record of the Counties of Wayne and Holmes, Ohio, J. H. Beers & Co., Chicago, 1889