Individual Details
(October 17, 1822 - January 12, 1911)
"Howard W. Sebree. Among the residents of Canton who have prosecuted a successful business career for many years and then, investing their means in such a manner as to derive a good income without undue exertion, have retired from the arduous labors of life, is the gentleman above named. He was engaged in the manufacture of wagons upwards of thirty-three years, the product of his establishment finding a ready sale over an extended region of country. He was engaged to some extent in other lines of business both before and after this experience, and for some time past has been the owner of dwellings and business houses, in which the greater part of his capital is invested. Our subject is the youngest son of James and Elizabeth (Trotter) Sebree. His mother was born in Virginia to the wife of George Trotter, moved to Kentucky when a small girl, and there grew to womanhood. Not long after marriage Mr. and Mrs. Sebree removed to Indiana, remaining in that State some sixteen years, after which they took up their residence in Pickaway County, Ohio. Several years later, in 1832, they came to this county, where for a time they were engaged in hotelkeeping. Mr. Sebree died in Canton in 1865, but the mother of our subject had passed away many years before. Their family comprised six sons and two daughters, of whom three sons and one daughter survive. The birth of Howard W. Sebree took place in Scott County, Ind., not far from Madison, October 17, 1822. In that county and in Canton, which became his home when ten years old, he took advantage of every opportunity offered to obtain an education, although his school privileges were meagre compared with those of the present time. On leaving school, when seventeen years old, he began work at the cooper's trade, making all kinds of barrels, but principally those for packing pork, which was an important industry in the neighborhood. There being quite a demand for wagons he determined to turn his attention to their manufacture, and meeting with success in his enterprise, continued it as before mentioned for a lengthy period of years. He finally invested considerable capital in buildings and also became interested in the manufacture of brick. At present his brickyard is leased, and he finds sufficient occupation in overseeing his investments, devoting the remainder of his time to domestic and social life and the enjoyment of the pleasures suited to his years. In earlier days he was one of the stanch Abolitionists of this vicinity, and afterward identified himself with the Republican party, whose principles he still supports. He is in sympathy with prohibition, liberal in religious matters, and imbued with the spirit which leads him to take a deep interest in all which will advance the real welfare of the community and State. He has never sought office, but as a private citizen has discharged his duties in a quiet and reliable manner. The home of Mr. Sebree is an old-fashioned, substantial brick structure on West Cole street. On May 27, 1852, he was married to Margaret Simpson, who was born in Philadelphia, but at the time of her marriage was living in Farmington Township, whither her parents, John and Margaret Simpson, had removed in 1834. She bore her husband five children, but two of whom are living. Those who have already crossed the river of death are Clara, John S. and Anne. The living are Emma, wife of Charles W. Wilson, and Stella T., whose presence still gladdens the home fireside, and she is now keeping house for her father. The death of Mrs. Sebree took place March 3, 1881." (Portrait and Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 470 and 473, submitted by Danni Hopkins.)
Events
| Birth | October 17, 1822 | Madison, Jefferson County, Indiana | | | |
| Marriage | May 27, 1852 | Lewistown, Fulton County, Illinois - Margaret M. Simpson | | | |
| Death | January 12, 1911 | Canton, Fulton County, Illinois | | | |
Families