Among the native sons of Miami county who are recognized as substantial and respected citizens is classified H. Lawrence Houser, whose birth occurred in Spring Creek township on the 13th of December, 1855. His grandfather was Henry Houser, his father, Aaron Houser, and the latter was born on the old homestead farm in Spring Creek township, January 27, 1826. Having arrived at years of maturity he married Eliza A. Inskeep, a native of Staunton township, and they became the parents of seven children: William S., now a resident of Piqua; James B., who is living in Spring Creek township; H. Lawrence; Frank, who also resides in Spring Creek township; Joseph, who is living in Piqua; Carrie, wife of Bland Scudder, of Fletcher; and Albert, a resident of Troy. Throughout his active business career the father of this family carried on farming with creditable success in his undertakings. He voted with the Democracy and was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he served as class leader for many years. He was one of the founders of the Bethel church and labored earnestly to promote the cause of Christianity in his community. He died January 26, 1899, his wife having preceded him only a few months, having passed away on the 20th of September, 1898.

H. Lawrence Houser spent his youth upon the old family homestead and in the common schools acquired his education. At the age of twenty he began teaching and followed that profession at intervals for twelve years during the winter months, mostly in Spring Creek and Brown townships. In 1897 he removed to his present farm, which comprises a tract of land of eighty acres on section P9, Spring Creek township, about five and a half miles northeast from Piqua, on the Snodgrass pike. There he carries on general farming, the well-tilled fields giving promise of rich harvests. He also raises stock of a good grade, and this adds materially to his income.

An important event in his life occurred on the 18th of May, 1879, when was celebrated his marriage to Miss Lucinda Snodgrass, a daughter of William Snodgrass. They now have five children: Blanche, a student of music; Harry, who is attending a commercial college in Piqua; Earl and Earnest, twins; and Grace, at home. Widely known in their community, Mr. and Mrs. Houser have many warm friends. In politics H. Lawrence Houser is a Democrat. For three years he served as justice of the peace and his rulings were fair and impartial. .He belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, his membership being in Orange Lodge, No. 779, of Kirkwood, of which he is a charter member.