farmer of Craig Township, is one of the well known and highly respected citizens of this county. He is the eldest son and second child of Robert McKay, and was born in Shenandoah County, Va., March 28, 1810. He was not yet two years old when his parents, in midwinter, penetrated into the unexplored wilds of the Indiana Territory. Amid forest scenes his childhood was passed, and without the privilege of a school or the aid of a teacher to instruct him in the rudiments of learning, unaided he learned to read and write after attaining his majority (sic), and made himself competent to intelligently transact ordinary business. He was married to Ann, daughter of John Shaw, in 1834. For eight years succeeding this event, he lived upon the old homestead, after which located on his present farm where he has since resided. He very creditably filled the office of justice of the peace for five years, and served as trustee two terms, discharging the duties of each to the satisfaction of all. He and his estimable wife have been members of the Christian Church many years and are, and always have been, much interested in all Christian and charitable works. Nine children have been born to them, five of whom are living, viz.: John, George, Isaac, William and Anna; Margaret, Elizabeth, Mary J. and Archibald are deceased. Mrs. McKay was born in Paisley, Scotland, in 1810.
Source: History of Switzerland County, Indiana 1885. Chicago, Illinois: Weakley, Harraman & Co., 1885
Transcribed by: Sheila Kell