Engle - Bennett - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

Bennett W. Engle, Crawfordsville, was born near Harper's Ferry, Va Jan 19, 1820 and is a son of Michael and Elizabeth (POLLOCK) Engle. Mr. Engle is of English and Irish descent. His father died when he, Bennett, was 8 years old and his mother two years afterward. Bennett then lived with his brothers and sisters until he was 15. His years following were passed in the store or on the farm. In 1833 he came to Rising Sun and clerked until 1845, when he came to Crawfordville. Here he owned and edited the Crawfordsville "Review" for 3 years, then clerked in the land office for 3 years, at the end of which he was appointed by James K. Polk, receiver of the public moneys. He held this position until Taylor removed him on account of opposite politics, under no other plea than the "the victor belong the spoils." He next acted as local editor of the "Review" for one year. In 1853 the Elston Bank was established and Mr. Engle was called to the position of cashier, which he has held ever since. He has been a lifelong democrat and is an Odd Fellow. He began life for himself with a cipher, and by perseverance, close attention to business and strict regard for all promises, he has been enabled to prefix the significant figures until he is now in comfortable circumstances. Mr. Engle was married Sept 13, 1854 to Miss Whillie BEARD, daughter of the Hon. John Beard, one of the most influential members of the state legislature, for many years, father of the public school fund and a man who was never beaten for office. He is further noticed in the sketch of Mrs. Engle's brother. Mr. & Mrs. Engle have four children: John E, Mary, Emma, and Bennett Beard. Mrs. Engle is a member of the Christian Church. -- kbz