Biographies and Obituaries
In loving memory
James M. Meads
The History of Daviess County
A.O.Fulkerson, editor. Indianapolis: B.F.Bowen, 1915. p. 534
Examples that impress force of character on all who that study them are worthy of record. By a few general observations may be conveyed some idea of the high standing and intellectual qualities of James M. Meads in the community where so many of his actives years have been spent. United in his composition are so many elements of a solid and practical nature which, during a series of years, have brought him into prominent notice, and earned for him a conspicuous place among the enterprising men of Daviess County, Indiana, that is but just recognition of his worth to speak of his achievements.
James. M. Meads was born on February 16th 1869, in Washington Township, Daviess County, and is the son of Joseph and Theresa (McClellan) Meads, whose life appears elsewhere in this volume under the caption Joseph H. Meads.
When quite a young man, James M. Meads, educated in the public schools of Washington Township, this county, started his agricultural career, by renting a farm in Barr Township, which he cultivated for a period of five years. In the month of December, 1892, having been economical and thrifty, he purchased a forty-eight tract of land in Washington Township; in 1900 he purchased an adjoining thirty-seven acres, and, in December 1905 made a further purchase of adjoining land of twenty-three and three quarter acres, giving him a total of one hundred eight and three-quarter acres in this township. From time to time, needed improvements were made, and it was in 1895 that he erected a splendid barn building and residence. The barn was struck by lightning and as a consequence the building was burned and quite a severe loss sustained. This structure was replaced by a new barn, which again was destroyed on June 30th, 1913. A new barn was erected September 1913. In addition to general farming, James Meads is interested, to some extent, in the raising of fine cattle. He has ample barn, shed and granary room and the buildings are all kept in the best of repair and paint. Everything about this place gives the observer the impression that the owner is a good manager and prosperous.
James. H. Meads was married on February 2, 1890, to Anna Billings, a daughter of Jess and Sarah (Miller) Billings, whose life history appears elsewhere in this work under the caption, John W.Billings.
Identified with the Democratic Party since 1896, and during the years 1912, 1913 and 1914, James H. Meads served in the board of county commissioners of Daviess County. He is an ardent supporter of the progressive principals set forth by his party and always lends an aggressive, helping hand to his party's interests. Personally, Mr.Meads is a man of great popularity in his community and can be dependedupon, by his friends and acquaintances,to give, from memory, exact data pertaining to the dates of happenings of any conscience. His intelligence along these lines is particularly marvelous. From a social standpoint, he is a man who makes friends easily, is genial and pleasant to meet, well informed on all current topics, and a man in whom the utmost confidence is reposed by all who know him.
More About JAMES M. MEADS:
Burial: Bethany Cemetery, Barr Township, Daviess County,Indiana
More About ANNA 'ANNIE' BILLINGS:
Burial: Bethany Cemetery, Barr Township, Daviess County,Indiana
Contributed by: Donna Tauber