Michael Erskin

MICHAEL ERSKIN.

Mr. Erskin is perhaps the oldest person in Boone County, or the oldest man who ever lived in the county. He is now in his ninety-fourth year. He was born in Monroe County, Virginia, January 15, 1794. He was married to Nancy Murdock in 1824, when in his thirtieth year. Soon after he was married he moved to Highland County, Ohio; remained there six years, then removing to near Pendleton, Indiana, where he resided two years, when in 1836 he came to Jefferson Township, Boone County, where he now resides, two miles south of Dover. His wife died in 1845, and on the first day of February. Is buried at Cox Cemetery. Four children were born to them, two of which are now living. Mr. Erskin was the second time married to Rebecca Parks in 1847. Two children were born unto them, both living. Mr. E. is now, for one of his age, enjoying good health. Has been a very hard working man, and has thrice been a pioneer to the front. He has never been out of the state since 1836. Never rode on the cars or steamboat. He voted for President Jackson the second term, and has been voting that kind of a ticket up to 1886. Mr. Erskin was in the war of 1812; was not in any battle, peace having been declared soon after he was drafted. He bids fair to live his one hundred years. He is the father of James M. Erskin, of Jefferson Township, who was quite young when the family came to Boone County. He has served as justice and trustee of his township. His wife died a few years since. Thanks to him for favors.

Source: "Early Life and Times in Boone County, Indiana," Harden & Spahr, Lebanon, Ind., May, 1887, pp. 278-279
Transcribed by: Julie S. Townsend - June 27, 2007