From the 1885 History of Steuben County, Indiana

page 750

William E. Kimsey, merchant, Salem Center, is a son of Dr. Joseph C. Kimsey. He is a native of the State of Indiana, born in Allen County, Oct. 12, 1851. Soon after his birth his parents moved to Fairfield Center, DeKalb County, and in 1855 to Salem Center. Mr. Kimsey's first business enterprise was running a produce wagon, which he continued a year. In 1872 Dr. Kimsey erected a business house in Salem Center, and father and son became partners in the general mercantile business. In 1877 William E., sold his interest to his cousin, William T. Kimsey, and engaged as a commercial traveler for the firm Taylor, Rodgers & Co., boot and shoe dealers, Toledo, Ohio. He proved a successful salesman, but the active and laborious life incident to that branch of business was too severe for his health, and in January, 1879, he returned to Salem Center and the next month bought the store of his father and cousin and has since conducted the business alone. Since Jan. 1, 1880, he has been Postmaster and is an efficient officer. He has been a Notary Public since Aug. 4, 1875. He was married April 11, 1872, to Elizabeth Dole, a native of Huron County, Ohio, born March 19, 1851, a daughter of John Dole, of Salem Township. They have two children -- Lois I. and Wallace D.

Submitted by Kim Davoli

E-mail: davoli82@juno.com