William M. Barrett
William M. Barrett, owner and proprietor of a general store at Wintersville, O., was born in Island Creek Township, Jefferson County, April 7, 1853, and is a son of Charles and Rebecca (Palmer) Barrett.
Charles Barrett was a son of John Barrett, an early settler in Jefferson County. Charles Barrett followed the carpenter's trade during his active years but lived retired previous to his death, in 1889. His burial was in Cross Creek Township. He married Rebecca Palmer, a daughter of John Palmer, and she survives and resides at Wintersville. They had the following children: Ella, deceased, who was the wife of Joseph Turnbold; William M.; Sarah; John, who is deceased; and Anderson, Edward, Elizabeth and Hattie.
William M. Barrett attended the common schools until he was about seventeen years of age. His first work was done as a driver for a milk wagon, which he continued for two and one-half years, after which he spent the same time as clerk in a restaurant. Mr. Barrett then embarked in the mercantile business which he has continued at the same stand for twenty years. He resides with his mother, who owns the residence property, but the store building belongs to him. Both he and his mother are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Like his late father, who was a veteran of the Civil War, he has always been identified with the Republican party. He is one of Cross Creek Township's best known and most respected citizens.
From 20th Century History of Steubenville and Jefferson County, Ohio, by Joseph B. Doyle. Richmond-Arnold Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910