1914 Delaware County History pgs. 333-334

Thomas W. De Lancey devotes his time to the operation of a farm of two hundred and one acres in Milo township, which he owns, and is one of the native sons of the county who has achieved success here. He was born on the 6th of February, 1876, his parents being David and Margaret (Wilson) De Lancey. The mother was born in Ireland and came to the United States with her parents many years ago. Further details concerning the family may be found in the sketch of William Wilson, which appears elsewhere in this work. Mrs. De Lancey was married in this county and became the mother of eight children, four of whom died in childhood. Those living are: Mary S., the wife of James Starr, a resident of Woonsocket, South Dakota; Gertrude A., who married S. K. Peters and also resides in Woonsocket; David Ellsworth, a resident of Woonsocket; and Thomas W., of this review. Both Mr. and Mrs. David De Lancey are living and make their home in Woonsocket. During his active life the father was a farmer.

Thomas W. De Lancey was educated in the public schools and when a young man of twenty-one years began his business career. He cultivated rented land for four years and then purchased one hundred and sixty acres in South Dakota, farming that place for one year. He then sold his quarter section and rented land for three years, after which he bought three hundred and twenty acres near Woonsocket and farmed there for two years, after which he sold his land and returned to this county, buying two hundred and one acres on section 28, Milo township. It is well located, being but six and a half miles from the county seat, and is in all respects a desirable property. Mr. De Lancey raises graded stock extensively and the sale of his cattle and hogs adds materially to his income. He is always willing to adopt any new method that promises to increase his efficiency and is recognized as one of the alert and enterprising agriculturists of the county.

Mr. De Lancey was married on the 30th of November, 1899, to Miss Nellie Peters, a daughter of Harry and Rose (Connor) Peters, and they, now have five children, Dorin D., Harry, Edith, Cecil and Donald, all at home.

Mrs. De Lancey is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. De Lancey is a republican in his political allegiance and at present is township trustee, which office he has held for four years.  While in South Dakota he was trustee of his township and was also president of the school board.  He has ably served as school director in his district in Milo township and is at all times heartily in favor of improving whenever possible the public-school system.  His untiring industry and his excellent judgment have been rewarded by material prosperity, and the honesty and integrity which have characterized his life have gained him the full confidence and respect of his fellow citizens.

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