JESSE SHILLING, superintendent of the engineering and electrical works in connection with lighting and heating the Miami County Court House at Troy and the jail and infirmary, having charge of the county electrical plant, was born at Troy, in 1857, and is a son of the late Jesse Shilling, who was a pioneer in Miami County.

Jesse Shilling, Jr., was reared and educated at Troy, where he went to the high school, after which he entered the Troy Fire Department, where he remained for ten years and operated one of the engines. He then left home and went as far south as Texas, and during the eight months of his stay there acted as a fireman on the Texas & Pacific Railroad, and later also ran an engine. After he returned to Troy he was in the employ of the manufacturing firm of Child's Catarrh Specific, where he continued for about eight years. In 1887 he became connected with his present work, of which he is now the capable superintendent.

In 1879 Mr. Shilling was married to Miss Dora Hickerson, who was born and reared in Troy and is a daughter of James Hickerson, who was one of the pioneer furniture dealers in this place. Mr. and Mrs. Shilling have two children: Harvey, who is a student in the Ohio State University; and Leah, who resides at home. Mr. Shilling and wife are members of the Baptist Church. He is a Knight of Pythias and is ex-president of the local lodge of the National Association of Stationary Engineers.