Robert Bovard, farmer, Cotton Township, residing upon Section 28, was born in Dearborn County, Ind., May 10, 1825, and received a good common school education. His father, Robert Bovard was born March 15, 1783; his mother, Margaret McGarvey, in Philadelphia August 16, 1788; his father was a farmer and boatman all his life; he used to keel a boat down the Mississippi River and back again. By his own industry and economy he made considerable property; he died May 12, 1854; Mrs. Bovard December 22, 1864. Their son, Robert, the subject of our sketch, has been a farmer all his life. he was married March 4, 1858, to Miss Mariah Heath, who was born in Cotton Township October 22, 1830. By this union two children were born, viz: Lide, February 6, 1864, and Belle, August 18, 1867; is a member of Allensville Lodge No. 81, F. & A.M. and also Beherald Chapter; he has officiated as W.M. of his lodge for about ten years, and is an industrious and useful citizen.
Source: History of Switzerland County, Indiana 1885. Chicago, Illinois: Weakley, Harraman & Co., 1885
Transcribed by: Sheila Kell