From the 1885 History of Steuben County, Indiana

pages 615-616

William R. Mitchell was born in Washington County, Pa., Aug. 27, 1816. When he was a child his parents, John and Isabel Mitchell, moved to Jefferson County, Ohio, and from there to Hagerstown, Carroll County, and thence, in 1826, to Tuscarawas County, where his father died in 1862 and his mother in 1863. He was reared in the latter county, and was there married, Oct. 5, 1850, to Sabilla Knisely, who was born June 5, 1827. In the spring of 1853 they became identified with Steuben County, settling on their present home April 27. His farm on section 20 contains 160 acres of land. At that time but a few acres had been cleared and a rude log cabin built. The present finely-improved farm and the large commodious residence are the evidences of industry and frugality. To Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have been born six children -- Lucetta, widow of R. W. Gordon, who died Nov. 12, 1882; Emma Belle, first wife of R. W. Gordon, died in October, 1879, leaving one child, Lulu Belle, who is cared for by her grandparents; Morgia died Dec. 11, 1881, of consumption; William W. married Della Chadwick, and lives in York Towhsip; Edward married Mary E. Rose, and lives in Marion, Kas.; Thomas O. lives in Oakland, Cal. Mr. Mitchell is one of the thorough farmers of the township, and has done his full share in assisting in the development of the county. He is a member of Angola Lodge, No. 236, F. & A. M., and makes the teachings of that order the rules of his life.

Submitted by Kim Davoli

E-mail: davoli82@juno.com