CHESTER F. CROSS, one of the conspicuous figures in agri- cultural circles in Jackson township, is essentially a man of affairs, of sound judgment, keen discernment and far-seeing in what he undertakes, and his extensive interests are but the legitimate fruitage of consecutive effort, directed and controlled by good judgment and correct business principles. Mr. Cross is a native of Jackson town- ship, born there on August 25, 1883, the son of John F. and Olive (Powell) Cross, who are represented in a personal sketch elsewhere in this work. The subject was educated in the Osborn school and on completing his studies he devoted himself to the work of the home farm, remaining with his father up to the time of his marriage. He then engaged in farming on his own account on the land where he now lives and has continued here to the present time. He now owns 160 acres in this farm, and 100 acres elsewhere in Jackson township, making his total holdings 260 acres. He keeps his farms up to the highest standard of excellence, both as regards buildings and the condition of the soil, and is regarded as a thoroughly up-to-date and progressive farmer. Mr. Cross gives considerable attention to live stock, raising from 400 to 500 hogs each year, in addition to which he buys about 250 head, so that altogether he feeds about 650 head a year. He also feeds about two car loads of cattle annually. On March 20, 1904, Chester F. Cross was married to Carrie J. Northam, who was born and reared in Posey township, the daughter of Jasper N. and Kate (Coffin) Northam. Her parents were both natives of Rush county, the father having cultivated a farm in Posey township for a number of years. They became the parents of five children, all of whom are living, namely: Carrie, Russell, Merrill, Thelma and Katherine. Mr. and Mrs. Cross have one child, Tracy, born in 1904, who is now a student in the Rushville high school. Mr. Cross is a staunch supporter of the Democratic party, and is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, holding membership in all the bodies of that order at Rushville up to and including the commandery of Knights Templar; he is also a member of Murat Temple of the Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, at Indianap- olis, and Lodge No. 1307, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, at Rushville. Personally, Mr. Cross possesses to a marked degree those qualities which win friendships and he is a popular member of the circles in which he moves.