Jacob I. Baker, native of the state of Pennsylvania, born October 3,
1826; emigrated with the family to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, in his boy-
hood. coming to Owen county, Indiana, about the year 1850. On the 5th
day of September, 1852, he married Fannie Mischler, then engaged in
farming for several years, residing meanwhile in Marion township, Owen
county. About the year 1860 he engaged in merchandising at Middlebury.
In partnership with John Row he opened one of the first general stores at
Clay City, in 1874. Later, he located on the farm, adjoining Clay City on
the east. At some time in the eighties he engaged again in the store busi-
ness at Middlebury and was postmaster for a time under the first Cleve-
land administration. In the year 1857 he united with the Brethren (Dun-
kard) church. To Mr. and Mrs. Baker were born nine children, seven of
whom survive, of whom John Baker, present marshal of Clay City, is the
eldest son. He died June 6, 1890, aged sixty-four years.