Valentine H. Wilson
Valentine H. Wilson was the second son of James and Eleanor Smith Wilson, and was born on the old (Wilson) homestead, Darby Plains, October 28, 1839, and died in his handsome home (Maple Villa) on the Lafayette pike, near London, Saturday, October 22, 1898, aged 59 years. He was raised on the farm and always pursued that business, coupled with that of an extensive stock dealer. He owned five farms, aggregating 1,500 acres, and his home was the finest in the whole county. Its equipment is modern, and its architecture both noble and beautiful. It had cost him nearly twenty thousand dollars and he had only about completed its details, when death removed him.
Mr. Wilson married Miss Dolly R. Jones, January 25, 1871, and she bore him five daughters, Minnie, Maud and Eleanor, deceased, and Mrs. Mabel Wilson Dye, and Helen, who, with his widow, survive.
Mr. Wilson's success as farmer and cattle dealer was due to his tireless industry and upright methods. He worked unceasingly and always with fidelity to his purpose. He was too modest for politics, so sought no public office, but as a member of the school board, took an active interest and served with distinction. He is remembered for his domestic virtues and high-minded principles.
From Madison Democrat 50th Anniversary - Published by the Madison Democrat, 1908