George M. Sheets belongs to one of the oldest families of Miami county, and for many years he has been identified with its agricultural interests. He was born on the farm where he now lives, August 19, 1840. His father, Isaac Sheets, located there about 1827 and erected what is known as the old Sheets mill. His first home was a small log cabin, and living in that pioneer home he began the improvement of the farm and the operation of the mill. On two different occasions he sold the mill and rented the farm, but there resided at the time of his death, which occurred September 23, 1876. He was born in Bedford, Pennsylvania, January 10, 1799, and had become a resident of Miami county when about twelve or fourteen years of age, having in the meantime spent four years in Tennessee. It was soon after his marriage that he took up his abode on what is now known as the old Sheets homestead. He manifested a deep interest in everything pertaining to the welfare and progress of the community and was a leading and influential citizen of his neighborhood. His wife passed away about fifteen years previous to his death.

George M. Sheets spent his boyhood days on the farm and learned the miller's trade during his youth. In connection with his brother, John K., he purchased the old mill, which he operated until about ten years ago. He and his sister, Mary, became the owners of the old homestead and he tilled the fields and harvested the crops, making the farm a valuable source of income. He also engaged in the business of manufacturing lumber and was a director of the First National Bank of Troy, for some years. He likewise owned stock in the carriage works and was thus connected with various enterprises which contributed not alone to the individual welfare of the stockholders but proved a source of prosperity to the community by advancing commercial activity. Mr. Sheets is a man of resourceful ability, and his well-directed efforts, resolute purpose and sound judgment have been important factors in the successful conduct of various industries.

After his mother's death his sisters, Mary and Lizzie, were in charge of the home and thus remained until after the father's death, when Lizzie removed to a farm of her own. Mary remained as housekeeper for her brother, George, until his marriage. Her interest has always centered in her home and she has supervised it with the greatest care and precision. The present residence was erected about 1841, since which time it has been greatly remodeled and enlarged. It stands on an attractive eminence, commanding an excellent view of the surrounding country.

On the 13th of May, 1885, George M. Sheets was united in marriage to Miss Nannie Whitaker, of Troy, a daughter of Nathan H. and Louisa (Leeds) Whitaker. Nathan H. Whitaker was born in Buncombe county, North Carolina, in 1808, and was a son of Israel and Elizabeth (Hollifeldt) Whitaker, of Irish and German extraction. Mr. Sheets continued his farming operations until May, 1899, when he was stricken with paralysis, which incapacitated him for further effort in the business world. He has always been a Democrat, but has never sought or desired political honors and emoluments, preferring to devote his time and energy to his business interests. He and his sister Mary have always resided upon the old homestead, and in the community they enjoy the esteem of a large circle of friends. Mr. Sheets has so ordered his business affairs as to win a comfortable competence, and by his honorable dealing has ever commanded the respect of those with whom he has been brought in contact.