R. E. Blinn
R. E. Blinn, county treasurer of Jefferson County, Ohio, and a leading citizen of Steubenville, is also an honored veteran of the great Civil War and a valued member of E. M. Stanton Post, G. A. R. Mr. Blinn was born in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, in 1832, and remained in his native county until 1855, when he came to Steubenville.
Mr. Blinn's firsf official position was that of deputy sheriff in the office of his father, James H. Blinn, who was sheriff of Jefferson County from 1855 until 1859. He then entered the employ of the Adams Express Company and remained until 1862 when he enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering Co. A, 98th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and continued in the army until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged and mustered out in 1865. He was one of that famous band that marched to the sea under General Sherman. After the war closed he returned to Steubenville and embarked in the grocery business and continued in that line until he was elected to the office of county treasurer, in November, 1908. He has served in numerous public offices with the greatest efficiency. For twelve years he was a member of the board of directors of the Jefferson County Infirmary and for four years was a trustee of the city water works company.
In July, 1859, Mr. Blinn was married to Miss Ellen Martin, of Steubenville, O., and they have five surviving children: Jean Marie; Ermine, who is the widow of William Sheriff, lives at home; James H., who is in business at Steubenville; Edwin C. who is assistant wreck master for the P. C. & St. L. Railroad; and Frank, who is an official under his father. Mr. Blinn and family are members of fhe Second Presbyterian Church, of which he is a deacon. He is identified with the Knights of Honor.
From 20th Century History of Steubenville and Jefferson County, Ohio, by Joseph B. Doyle. Richmond-Arnold Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910