James Graves

James Graves, one of the oldest settlers of the county, was born at Chatham, N. C, January 6, 1818, his parents, John and Elizabeth (Freeman) Graves, being natives of North Carolina and Virginia respectively, and their ancestors natives of Ireland. John was born in 1789, was married in 1813, moved to Ohio in 1821, died there in I844. His widow came with her son James to this county soon after, where Mrs. Graves died in 1875, in her eighty-first year. Of her twelve children, nine grew to manhood and womanhood, six are living and five reside in this county. James Graves was married in 1842 to Miss Maria, daughter of John and Mary (Waters) Francis, who was born in Ross county, O., in 1820, her parents being of German and Irish origin. She remained at her father's home, but being a good spinner was always a welcome guest and helper at the wheel throughout the neighborhood. While with Mrs. Graves, Sr., the friendship which led to her marriage was formed. In settling in Essex, Mr. Graves and his brother purchased fifty acres on credit. This small beginning has grown into an excellent farm of three hundred acres, fully improved and equipped. Of his children, Mary, married S. Cox, is deceased; B. F. Graves; Matilda is now Mrs. G. A. Thomas, of Chicago; Frances, now Mrs. M. E. Cox; Malinda A., now Mrs. H. L. Crone; Amanda, Austin and John, deceased. This family has been closely identified with the county for over forty years, and has always been on the side of progress.