My Genealogy Hound

F. M. PATTON, merchant, New Hope, was born in New Hope, Brown Co., Ohio, March 16, 1831, the year preceding the disastrous flood in the White Oak Valley. His father was Morecroft M. Patton, for many years a prominent merchant of this village. Mr. Patton has lived all his life in the town where he was born. Eighteen years ago, he commenced business as a merchant in New Hope, with Dr. W. W. Ellsberry as a partner. In two years, the partnership was dissolved by mutual consent, and Mr. Patton began business on his sole responsibility. He has been engaged in mercantile traffic since 1864 — two years in partnership and sixteen years by himself. For ten years he has been considered one of the leading merchants of the county. In 1864, Mr. Patton received the appointment of Postmaster, under President Lincoln, and has held that office ever since. In 1880, he was the deputy census taker for the township. Besides, he has filled, at various times, different township offices; he has been twice elected Township Assessor, and has served many years as School Director of District No. 5. Mr. Patton has been twice married. The first time to Amanda L. Purdum, February 12, 1853, and the second time to Sylvania Higgins. March 21, 1874. The issue of the first marriage were Leonidas, Thomas, Lizzie, William, Butler and Code. Of the second, David and Mary. He is a zealous member of both the Odd Fellows and Freemasons.