On the farm where he now lives, Jefferson D. Iddings was born, September 20, 1846. His father, Davis Iddings, was a native of Newton township and a son of Joseph Iddings, who came from South Carolina to Ohio at an early day, establishing a home in Newton township, Miami county, where his son, Benjamin, now resides. He entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from the government, began the development of a good farm there and transformed the wild tract into richly cultivated fields. On the old homestead, amid the scenes of pioneer life, Davis Iddings was reared, and when he had arrived at years of maturity he wedded Sarah Hill, by whom be had four children: Alfred, who is now a practicing physician of Dayton; Nathan, of Bradford; Maria, wife of John Jay, of Pleasant Hill, and Jefferson D.

The last named was born and reared upon the farm where he now lives. He was one of the brave soldier boys whose patriotism and valor far exceeded his years, for he was not quite sixteen when he enlisted. While returning from school he met a recruiting officer, Joshua Deeter, and as a private joined Company G, One Hundred and Tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. This was in September, 1862, and he was mustered in at Columbus, whence he proceeded to Virginia, and participated in the battle of Winchester--the first engagement in which he took part. He later faced the enemy in the battles of Brandywine Station, Mine Run, the Wilderness, Cold Harbor and Petersburg, when the regiment was withdrawn to Washington City. This move was followed by the battle of Monocacy and subsequently the One Hundred and Tenth went to Baltimore. Mr. Iddings was discharged at Petersburg on the expiration of his term. He was wounded in the battle of the Wilderness by a minie ball, which struck him in the left hand, but otherwise he escaped uninjured. The bravery which he displayed on many a field of carnage equaled that of many a time-tried veteran of twice his years.

After his return he resumed work on the home farm, where he remained for seven years, when he went to the Black Hills and was there engaged in mining for nine months. He next went to New Mexico with an old trapper and hunter, with whom he continued for six months, after which he spent two years in the mines at Joplin, Missouri. He then returned to the old homestead, where he has since lived, his time and energies being devoted to the work of the farm. Here he owns forty-two acres of land and annually plants from twelve to fifteen acres to tobacco, which is a profitable crop, adding largely to his income. He also raises corn and wheat. His farm, though small, is a highly cultivated one and yields to him a good financial return.

In 1869 occurred the marriage of Mr. Iddings and Miss Frances Cavender. In 1879 he was again married, his second union being with Ellen Terry, by whom he has three children: Harry, Nellie and Ethel. They have a pleasant home and enjoy the warm regard of many friends in the community. In his political associations Mr. Iddings is a Democrat, and, socially, he is connected with Daniel W. Williams Post, No. 369 G. A. R., of which he is exchaplan and officer of the day. The brave soldier who fought for the preservation of the Union during the civil war has become a loyal citizen in times of peace, advocating all measures which he believes will prove of general good. His worth as an individual is widely known, and he is regarded as a reliable business man.