O. W. RICHARDSON, one of the leading contractors and builders of Piqua, Ohio, has been a resident of this city since July, I889, and has erected some of the prominent buildings here. Mr. Richardson was born in Darke County, Ohio, August 26, 1874, and t here he attended the public schools. After coming to Piqua, in 1889, be attended Piqua High School one term. Upon leaving that institution he learned the trade of a carpenter, serving a thorough apprenticeship, and followed that occupation continuously until 1897. He then engaged in general contracting in partnership with his father, but during the past seven years he has conducted operations alone. He has erected many fine buildings, among which may be mentioned that of Piqua Central Fire Department, the Boal Flats and the United Brethren Church. He added the third story to the Glencoe Hotel and remodeled the remainder of the building. He has taken an active part in political affairs, being a Republican, and has served as central committeeman and as delegate to congressional and county conventions.

June 20, 1900, Mr. Richardson was united in marriage with Miss Electa B. Davis, of Piqua. Both are members of the Church of Christ and are enthusiastic church workers. He has been superintendent of the Sunday School for seven years, and has seen it's growth from ninety scholars, with an average attendance of sixty, to an enrollment of 240, with an average attendance of 150. Mrs. Richardson also has been an active Sunday School worker and teacher, and has seen many of her class of infants grow to be useful members of the church congregation. Mr. Richardson is a member of Warren Lodge, No. 24, F.& A.M., of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and also of the Piqua Club.