James U. Bennett
Source: History of Steuben County, IN  (1885) p. 506-7

James U. Bennett, son of Wildman and Anna (Nichols) Bennett, was born near
Bridgeport, Conn., in 1831.  His parents moved to Lagrange County, Ind.,
about 1851, and subsequently to Bronson, Mich., where they passed the
remainder of their lives.  About 1858 James U. came to Steuben County,
purchased property in Orland, where he established a permanent home.  Seeing
the need of improving the stock of the country he turned his attention to
this industry, and was gaining a national reputation for his fine cattle
when he was stricken with disease and died March 13, 1881.  He was an
enterprising, public-spirited citizen, and gave his support to all movements
that tended toward the advancement of the community.  Unselfish and
benevolent, all objects of charity found in him a benefactor, and all in
need of assistance or advice a true friend and counselor.  He was married in
1849 to Sylvia M. Hurd who died Dec. 7, 1858, leaving one daughter, Sylvia
E., now Mrs. John Dickinson, of Maywood, Ill.  In 1859 he married Eunice C.
Hurd, who died Nov. 24, 1863.  March 27, 1864, he married Emma C. Kimball, a
daughter of one of Mill Grove Township's oldest and most influential
citizens.  To them were born four children - James A., Ora P., Arthur N. and
Emma E.  After the death of J. U. Bennett, Mrs. Bennett settled the estate,
and her son James, though but sixteen years of age, assumed the management
of the farm, carrying on the stock business in a manner that would be
creditable to  man of thorough experience.  He is a young man of
unexceptional character, of fine business qualities, and has been a careful
and successful manager of his mother's business.