farmer, Pleasant Township, was born in Richmond Township, Ontario Co., N.Y., January 25, 1811. His parents William and Zerusa (ANDERSON) Welch, were born in Massachusetts and immigrated to this county in 1820. His father served in the war of 1812, and lived and died a farmer. In 1829 Mr. Welch went to Louisville Ky., to learn his trade, and served three years' apprenticeship, after which he worked at the same for twenty-five years. From 1837 to 1841 he was employed in Louisiana. He was married November 20, 1841, to Miss Matilda Slawson a native of Pleasant Township, and they are the parents of seven children: Martha, Mary, Albert, Lawrence, Emma, Angie and Scott. Mr. Welch was elected county commissioner from the Third District, but resigned in June 1861, and enlisted September 23, 1861, in Company E, Fiftieth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served three years and three months in the late war, during his term of service being promoted to orderly. He was discharged January 5, 1865. He served as justice for four years, and represented Switzerland and Ohio Counties in the State Legislature in 1865. He was elected county treasurer in 1873, and served two years. In all his undertakings he has been very successful and has plenty of this world's goods, to make the journey of life smooth and pleasant. He is a member of Bennington Lodge No. 257, F. & A.M.; his wife a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Welch, is one of Switzerland County's most active, reliable, and thorough going farmers. During his long official career he served the people with fidelity and honor, and, we believe, with entire satisfaction to all concerned.
Source: History of Switzerland County, Indiana 1885. Chicago, Illinois: Weakley, Harraman & Co., 1885
Transcribed by: Sheila Kell