In the book's own words, not ours, with obvious scanning errors fixed. Families often supplied these stories to the publisher, so check key dates.
Born 1857, Holmes county
From Centennial history of Coshocton County, Ohio; (1909)
DAVID A. CULLISON.
A glance at the well improved farm of two hundred acres belonging to David A. Cullison is the best evidence of what can be accomplished through determined purpose, laudable ambition and capable management. Mr. Cullison was born in Holmes county, May 25, 1857, a son of Alexander and Sarah (Watts) Cullison. The father was a soldier of the Civil war and was killed in battle, leaving the mother to support four small children. She removed with her little family to Dresden, Muskingum county, and as soon as old enough David A. began to provide for his own support, so that his educational advantages were necessarily very limited. He secured work at farm labor and for several years was employed in this way by John Haines of Bedford township. Through economy and energy he managed to save a sum of money that justified him in starting in business on his own account and after investing in a team and implements for carrying on farm work he operated rented land in Bethlehem township for one year. In March, 1885, he removed to his present farm which comprises two hundred acres situated in Jackson township. It is improved with a good country residence, substantial barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, and in addition to raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate he also raises good grades of stock. Mr. Cullison deserves great credit for what he has accomplished and is classed among the substantial citizens of this section of the state.
Mr. Cullison was married November 29, 1883, the lady of his choice being Miss Alice L. Milligan, a daughter of William and Lena (Haines) Milligan, of Coshocton county, both of whom have passed away. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Cullison has been blessed with seven children but the youngest, Iva M., is now deceased. Those living are: Pearl M., the wife of Joseph Sowers; Minnie E., the wife of Denman Sowers; Roy J.; Bertha B.; Bulah J.; and Bessie M.
Mr. Cullison gives his political support to the democratic party and aside from acting as school director for several years has filled no public office. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Character and ability will come to the front anywhere. As boy and man, many a man has been buffeted by fortune and had almost insurmountable obstacles thrust in his path but perseverance has cleared them away and he has gone on to success, and this is what Mr. Cullison has done.
As printed in Centennial history of Coshocton County, Ohio; (1909). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.
The printed record stops around 1909. We trace your line from there down to you, with every source cited.