Joseph Craig
Jno. Y. Glessner -- Dear Sir: At the request of a number of the friends of the subject of this article, as well as to gratify my own feelings, allow me to say that on the 29th. day of January, 1877, the writer hereof, with a large number of the relatives and friends of Mr. Joseph Craig, a citizen of Independence, enjoyed one of the most agreeable surprise parties of the season, on the anniversary of the eightieth birth day of our venerable friend. This meeting was entirely impromptu, gotten up in the very best taste, and, after a very cordial greeting of the friends and relations, the tables were set and spread with a rich profusion of the good things of this life, of which some fifty persons partook to their heart's content, after which the Independence Brass Band made their appearance and enlivened the occasion by playing a number of their best pieces, to the satisfaction of all; and were then invited to partake of a sumptuous supper prepared for them, of which they partook with a zest, when all dispersed with the best of feeling. Mr. Craig was born on the 29th. day of January, 1797, in Baltimore County, Maryland, and at the age of two years he removed with his parents to Huntington County, Pa., where he resided until 1825. On the 17th. day of June, 1824, he was married to Miss Margaret Speer, with whom he now lives, being his junior five years. In 1825, on the 21st. day of September, he removed from Pennsylvania and on the 4th. day of October, 1825, arrived in Zanesville, Ohio, the day Gen. Lafayette passed through that place. He remained in Muskingum County one year, and then removed to Richland County, O. and settled on the east half of the southwest quarter of section 20, township 21, of range 17, where he has continued to reside to the present time. The writer has been acquainted with Mr. & Mrs. Craig continually since 1830, and has lived contiguous to him since Nov. 15th., 1833. They are now and always have been considered as among our most respected citizens. Mr. Craig has never failed to vote at all elections since he has had the right to vote, and has at all times voted the Democratic ticket. Long may he and his devoted wife live to enjoy the fruits of their labors, and the society of their relations and friends. -- Thos. B. Andrews.
From Richland Shield & Banner: February 3, 1877