MAURICE E. STANFIELD, chief engineer of the City Water Works at Troy, Ohio, is one of those quiet, efficient, reliable men, on whose shoulders rest so much of the comfort and health, business prosperity and even social pleasures of a community. The chief engineer directing the utilities of a city is often one of its most necessary men. Mr. Stanfield was born September 10, 1856, at Fredericksburg, Ohio, and was one year old when his parents removed to Miami County.

Until he was about twenty-five years of age, Mr. Stanfield remained on the home farm and then went into railroad work, first as fireman on the Big Four Railroad between Indianapolis and Springfield. From there he was transferred to the Ohio Southern, an d after a year there was just on the point of receiving well earned promotion, when the illness of his wife caused him to give up that position and accept one that would enable him to have a stationary home. This he found with the Troy Wagon Works and for twenty years he operated their engines and became known as so thoroughly responsible, that the city fathers offered him the position of chief engineer of the city works. He accepted the offer and severed the pleasant relations which had existed so long with the proprietors of the wagon works, the parting being one of respect and esteem on both sides. Mr. Stanfield has occupied his present position since 1902.

In 1878 Mr. Stanfield was married to Miss Clara McDonald, who died in 1893. He was married (second), in 1894, to Miss Laura Lewis, who was born near Covington, Ohio. Her father was born in Marion, Ohio, and came to Miami when a boy and became a substantial farmer. He was also a prominent Democrat and held county offices. Mr. and Mrs. Stanfield are members of the Christian Church. He is a member of the Masons and Odd Fellows, and he and his wife are members of the Order of Rebekah. He was a charter member also of the Order of the Golden Eagles.