Firman J. Bradley, a son of John M. Bradley, whose sketch appears above, was born on the old Armstrong farm, on the line of Bethel and Elizabeth townships, January 27, 1871. Some time later the father purchased the farm upon which the son now resides and made it his place of abode for a few years, after which he returned to the Armstrong farm, where the greater part of the boyhood days of our subject were passed. He was trained to habits of industry, economy and honesty and these have proved valuable factors in his later career. His preliminary education was acquired in the common schools and was supplemented by attendance in the high school of Tippecanoe City, in which he was graduated in the class of 1891. He spent two terms at the Ada Normal, and thus became qualified for life's practical duties. He then entered upon the work of earning his own livelihood and has since depended entirely upon his own resources.

Mr. Bradley was married January 30, 1895, the lady of his choice being Miss Oty Thackeray, a daughter of William and Philena (Baxter) Thackeray. Her father is now deceased but her mother is still living. Mrs. Bradley was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, but when a little maiden of four summers was brought to Miami county, the family locating in Lost Creek township. There the father died in September, 1881, at the age of forty-five years. Mrs. Bradley pursued a three years' course of study in the high school at Addison, and subsequently engaged in teaching in the district schools near her home. In this locality she met her husband, who prior to that time had kept bachelor's hall for two years. Their union has been blessed with a little daughter, Samantha Madge, who was born May 3, 1899. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bradley are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church in Addison, and take an active interest in its work and welfare. Politically he exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican party and is well versed on the issues and questions of the day. Success is not a matter of genius nor the result of fortuitous circumstances but comes as the reward of unflagging labor when guided by sound judgment, and it is in this way that Mr. Bradley has become known as one of the substantial citizens of the community.