Ashpbell Parson Willard Hooton
 

It is proper to judge of a man's life by the estimation in which he is held by his fellow citizens. They see him at his work, in his family circle, in church, hear his views on public questions, observe the operations of his code of morals, witness how he conducts himself in all the relations of society and civilization and are therefore competent to judge of his merits and demerits. After a long course of years of daily observation, it would be out of the question for his neighbors not to know of his worth, for, as has been said, "Actions speak louder than words." In this connection it is not too much to say that the several members of the Hooton family have ever stood high in the estimation of their neighbors and acquaintances, for their conduct has been honorable in all the relations of life and their duty well performed whether in private or public life, and they have ever been industrious, never waiting for some one else to do what they should accomplish themselves. These reflections have been especially noticeable in the career of Ashpbell Parson Willard Hooton, formerly an agriculturist and merchant, but at this writing the able and trustworthy recorder of Boone county, and a man active in local public affairs.

Mr. Hooton was born on a farm in Hendricks county, Indiana, January 1, 1859. He is a son of John and Matilda (Worrell) Hooton, both parents also natives of Hendricks county, where they grew to maturity, were educated in the early-day schools and there were married and established their home on a farm, which they made their home until 1872, when they removed to a farm in Center township, Boone county, and here became very comfortably established through their industry. The death of the father occurred June 18, 1910, but his widow survives. Politically, John Hooton was a Democrat and was active in public affairs, but never held office. He was well thought of by all who knew him.

A. P. W. Hooton, of this sketch, was reared on the home farm, and he received his education in the district schools, with one year in the high school in Lebanon. He began life for himself by clerking in various stores in Lebanon, continuing for a number of years, giving satisfaction to his employers. Then he engaged in the grocery business in Lebanon, which he continued for about four years, then served as deputy sheriff under Sheriff I. T. Davis, after which he again followed clerking in a general merchandise store, where he remained for eleven years. In 1891 he again engaged in the grocery business, which he continued for five years, during which he enjoyed an extensive trade. Selling out he retired from active life for a time, then resumed the grocery business, which he followed until 1901, when he sold out and moved to his brother's farm in Center township and farmed successfully for seven years. In 1909 he returned to selling groceries, opening a store in Lebanon, and there continued until 1911. He was elected county recorder in November, 1910, and assumed the duties of this office January 1, 1911, and is now serving a four years' term in a manner that reflects credit upon his ability and is winning the hearty approval of all concerned, irrespective of political alignment. He is an active Democrat. He served one term as a member of the city council from the third ward, from 1904 to 1908, although this has long been a strong Republican ward. He has served as a member of the Democratic County Committee frequently and has often been a delegate to county, district and state conventions. He is one of the leaders in his party in Boone county and wields an influence of no little importance. Fraternally, he belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the Loyal Order of Moose.

Mr. Hooton was married October 10, 1883, to Effie M. Bridge, a daughter of Albert R. and Elizabeth W. (Spencer) Bridge, a highly esteemed family of Burlington, Iowa, but formerly of Boone county, Indiana. To our subject and wife the following children have been born: John A. is married and is deputy county recorder; Ada M. married Clyde Stephens, and they live in Florida; Harry R. is married and lives in Lebanon; Frank B., Clarence, Ralph, Catherine and William are all at home. Mr. Hooton and family are members of the Baptist church, and are faithful in their attendance and support of the same.

Submitted by: Amy K. Davis
Source: "History of Boone County, Indiana," by Hon. L. M. Crist, 1914