B. Frank Mars

As printed in 1906

B. FRANK MARS, one of the prominent early settlers and leading agriculturists of Berrien township, making his home on section 18, Berrien township, was born in this township January 1, 1849, the fifth son of Hugh and Elizabeth (Hartsell) Mars, who were numbered among the very early pioneers of Michigan, they having established their home in Pokagon Prairie, Cass county, in 1829. In 1832 they located in Berrien township, Berrien county, where on the 23d of December of that year they secured a farm from the government, which they improved but afterward sold and about 1850 removed to the farm which is now the home of their son B. Frank Mars. There this worthy old pioneer couple spent the remainder of their lives, the father reaching the good old age of eighty-one years. He was a prominent factor in the early history of the county, in which he held a number of public offices, among them being that of justice of the peace, and he was also prominent in school affairs, the cause of education ever finding him a stanch friend. The mother passed away when she had reached the age of fifty-six years.

B. Frank Mars was only six years of age when his parents took up their above on the farm which is now his home, and here he early became injured to the work of the fields, assisting in its improvement and development, and here he is spending his declining years. In 1874 he was united in marriage to Emma Stowe, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Wesley and Hannah (Phelps) Stowe. Their union has been blessed by the birth of six children, namely: Ethel, the wife of John Hintz, of Conklin, Michigan; Josephine, wife of George Wilkinson, of the same place; Edith, wife of George Gillhespy, who also makes his home in Conklin; Frances, the wife of Howard Gillhespy, of Conklin; Loren, a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Carl, at home. As before stated Mr. Mars is a life-long resident of Berrien county, having been identified with its interests for fifty-eight years, and during this time he has been recognized as one of its most honored and highly esteemed citizens. He affiliates with the Republican party and takes an interest in public affairs, but has never been an aspirant for political favors, although he has served as constable, game warden and as a school officer, also at one time having held the office of deputy sheriff of Berrien county. His fraternal relations were with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 323 at Berrien Springs, Michigan.

As printed in A twentieth century history of Berrien County, Michigan (1906). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.