Jonathan Minshall
Few men have had the good fortune to win the affectionate regard and honest friendship of the people of Madison County to such an extent as Jonathan Minshall. He was born near Winchester, Frederick Co., Va., November 8, 1782, and in October, 1803, became a member of the M. E. Church. Soon after his conversion, he was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor Watson, daughter of Walter and Rachel Watson, natives of Maryland. In the fall of 1806, he removed to Ross Co., Ohio, where his wife remained until he could select the site of their future home. He, with his brother-in-law, David Watson, selected land on Walnut Run, in what is now Paint Township, Madison County, upon which they erected a small cabin, which was completed and occupied, January 17, 1807. There was no other house for many miles in any direction, and Jonathan Minshall and wife, with David Watson, comprised the entire settlement in that vicinity. They were not, however, discouraged, but went to work with vigor to make for themselves a home. In June, 1807, Rev. Benjamin Lakin, came and preached in this cabin, and formed a class, consisting of its three occupants. Mr. Minshall was appointed leader of this pioneer band of Christians, and the influence of this little society, from that day to this, has impressed its fundamental character upon that neighborhood. About two years after the formation of the class, Mr. Minshall was licensed as a local preacher, and being the only one in that region of country, he did much, in every way, to sustain the principles of Christianity. Gifted in speech, upright in life, manly in appearance and personal bearing, and firm in purpose, he stood as a bright example in the midst of the gradually increasing settlement.
To Jonathan and Eleanor Minshall, were born the following children: Jessie, Rachel, Permelia, Hannah, Walter, Polly, James Quinn, Harriet, Lydia and Ellen; the last mentioned and Polly being the only survivors. His wife died, June 6, 1820, and he subsequently married Leah Bradford, who bore him seven children, viz.: Edward, Isaac, William, Enoch, Asberina, Wesley, and one died in infancy. Mr. Minshall was not only a useful man in the church, but also in the business affairs of the neighborhood. He was honored, both with township and county offices, the trust and duties of which he discharged with fidelity. He was a .Justice of the Peace for some years, and County Commissioner from 1811-16, inclusive. Mr. Minshall was a good, plain, practical, common-sense preacher, who was much respected and loved by those who knew him best. At the meridan of life, he was broken down in health, and prostrated in his financial affairs, which embarrassed him all the remainder of his days. He still preached, when opportunity afforded, until the weight of age and afflictions pressed him down into comparative helplessness, but his declining years were solaced by the affectionate care of his son James Quinn, who was one of the leading business men of Madison County. Mr. Minshall passed away in peace and tranquillity, September 30, 1868, respected by all and loved by most who knew him.
From History of Madison County - W. H. Beers [Chicago, 1883]