retired merchant, Vevay. The subject of this sketch is one of the old pioneers, and has been a prosperous, worthy citizen. He was born in Yorkshire, England, October 12, 1803, and received a rather limited education. His parents were natives of Yorkshire. His father, James, born in October, 1755; his mother, Elizabeth (Topham), October 1773. They were married in 1799 and raised a family of seven children, Alfred, Linda, Zadig, Orlanda, Cora, Lucien and Percey. The father left England for America in September, 1811; the mother coming with seven children in December 1812. They were prisoners five weeks in Nova Scotia. After remaining one year in New York State, they moved to Vevay, Ind., May 4, 1814. Father Rous was elected one of the first commissioners after Switzerland County was organized. He was also township trustee, and was the first male school teacher in the county. He was always active in school matters, and was school trustee when the academy was built. He was a cotton manufacturer by trade, and a school teacher by profession. He read medicine, and practiced some in England. He was secretary of the Bradford Club, which was formed to immigrate to America. He was a prominent politician and had to leave his native country on account of his opposition to their laws. He and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in Vevay. Mr. Zadig Rous was raised a farmer. He ran flat-boats down the river before any large steamers plowed the mighty water. He also ran a carpenter and wagon shop and did merchandising. He was truly successful in all his undertakings, and has secured a comfortable competency for his old age. He was married, May 18, 1826, to Miss Mary Shaw, who was born March 9, 1805, and by this union seven children have been born: James, who died in infancy; Elizabeth, born June 15, 1828; James, Jr., born February 6, 1830, died April 2, 1865; John, born September 27, 1832; Mary A., born July 30, 1835; William, born January 7, 1839; Alfred, born April 10, 1844. Mr. Rous was justice of the peace, also city marshal for three years. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Source: History of Switzerland County, Indiana 1885. Chicago, Illinois: Weakley, Harraman & Co., 1885
Transcribed by: Sheila Kell