Mark A. Duzan

MARK A. DUZAN

Was the son of William Duzan, an early settler of Clarkstowns. He was born in Tennesse [sic], and come [sic] with the family to Indiana in 1834 when he was a lad of fifteen years of age. He worked on the farm, using his spare time in acquiring a good or rather a useful education. He was born about the year 1819 or 1820, for he was barely old enough to take his seat in the state senate in 1844 and 1845, to which he was elected to represent Boone and Hamilton counties. In 1846 he went in the army to Mexico, serving as private with credit. In 1850 he was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention, where he served to the satisfaction of the people. In 1852 he went, or rather started to Oregon, but died on the plains and was buried there. Mark A. Duzan had one of the happiest make-ups of any man I ever was acquainted with. He could adapt himself to the senate chamber or drive oxen, run, hop, jump, or make a capital speech, as the case required. In person he was perfect; 5 feet 10 inches high, well formed, weighing 175 lbs., with fair complexion and auburn hair. He was elected to the above office as a Democrat. Mr. Duzan was never married. Though he sleeps in an unknown grave he will be remembered by many citizens of Boone County.
 

Transcribed by: Julie S. Townsend - June 11, 2007
Source: "Early Life and Times in Boone County, Indiana," Harden & Spahr, Lebanon, Ind., May, 1887, p. 259.