My Genealogy Hound

JOHN W. PURDUM, deceased, was born in Brown County March 29, 1821, son of Jeremiah and Sarah (Wright) Purdum, who emigrated to this county from Kentucky. The common schools afforded John W. his education, and during a number of years in his early manhood he taught school. His politics were Democratic and during his life he was honored with an election to several offices of responsibility and trust. He served two terms as Auditor of Brown County, and among other offices was elected County Clerk. Mr. Purdum was successful in business, and, at the time of his death in 1866, was the owner of 250 acres of land in Pleasant Township. Much of his time and attention has been devoted to agriculture and kindred pursuits. In 1844, he was married to Mary J., daughter of John Mefford. She was born in Mason County, Ky., of German and English descent. Her grandfather was born on the ocean. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Purdum consists of seven children — Sarah, wife of Charles W. Willis, Jennie B., John M., Clarrie M., W. M., Roberta and Elizabeth. Since the death of her husband, Mrs. Purdum has had charge of the farm. He had been a kind father, a faithful husband and a successful business man.