Biography of Timothy J. Knisely, pages 996 / 997.  History of De Kalb 
County, Indiana.  Inter-State Publishing Company, Chicago, 1885.

Timothy J. Knisely, of the firm Knisely Brothers, Butler Ind., was born in 
Troy Township, De Kalb County, Ind., April 17, 1848, a son of William 
Knisely, and early settler of that township.  Losing his father when quite 
young and being the eldest child, he was obliged to depend upon his own 
resources and assist his mother in the maintenance of the family.  His 
education was obtained by study at home, when not at work, as he was able to 
attend school but two months in the year.  When about eighteen years old he 
began teaching, and taught two terms.  Then clerked six months for his 
brother-in-law, J.D. Aldrich, when he became a partner in the business.  In 
1870 he came to Butler, and the first winter worked in the hotel for his 
board.  The next spring he was employed in Isaac Oaks’ store at $40 a month, 
and after a year and a half was given $50 a month.  He remained there three 
and a half years and then bought an interest in the drug business with Dr. 
Hoopingardner.  The next year his brother, David H., bought the Doctor’s 
interest, and they carried on the business six months when they sold the 
entire stock to the Doctor and established a general store.  They carry a 
stock valued at $20,000, and have an annual business of $60,000.  When 
they sold their drug store they had a capital of about $6,000.  They keep 
a full line of dry goods, clothing, boots, shoes, hats, caps, notions, 
groceries, furnishing goods, carpets, and also carry on a merchant 
tailoring establishment, having a good custom.  They are among the most 
successful merchants in Butler, and among the rising young men of De Kalb 
County.  Mr. Knisely was married May 10, 1868, to Jennie McCurdy.  To them 
have been born four children; three are living---Lillie Dell, born Feb. 28, 
1870; Ora T., born Sept. 15, 1873; Sarah Dessie, Nov. 3, 1874.  Mr. Knisely 
is a member of the Masonic fraternity, lodge, chapter, council, and 
commandery.  He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
church.

Submitted by:
Arlene Goodwin
Auburn, Indiana
Agoodwin@ctlnet.com