W. Ralph Lotspeich
W. Ralph Lotspeich, saddler and harness maker, London, was born in London June 8,1834. He was the oldest child, and received a fair education. At fourteen years of age he learned his present trade with his father, and in 1866 went to Iowa, where he was engaged in farming until 1873 He then returned to London, and in 1874 purchased the stock and trade of his father. He has since conducted the business with moderate success. Mr. Lotspeich is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Knights of Honor, and a Prohibition Republican in politics. He was married, November 13, 1859, to Ellen Melvin. a native of Union Township, this county and daughter of Joseph B. Melvin and Elizabeth Gardner. Her grandfather was a pioneer of Georgesville, Franklin Co., Ohio. Two children have been given them – Leon and Joseph Edgar. Mrs. Lotspeich and her youngest son are also members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
From HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY - W. H. Beers [Chicago, 1883]