NATHAN M. COATES, farmer, sec. 4, Big Rapids Tp., was born June 2, 1829,
in Northamptonshire, Eng., and when a year old was brought to this country by his parents. Mr. Coates came to Michigan in June, 1852, and settled in Muskegon County, and purchased a farm of 120 acres, where he resided until 1857. In that year he sold his place and came to Big Rapids, where he bought 80 acres of land, than in its primal condition of dense wilderness, lying one mile northwest of the city limits, and the homestead where he has since resided. He has cleared and improved 60 acres, which is now in a fine state of cultivation, and a good frame house and other creditable farm appurtenances.
Mr. Coates was married April 15, 1860 to Emily Jane PRESTON, of Big
Rapids, born in Owego, N.Y. Sept. 9, 1841. She died Nov. 30, 1877, leaving seven children: William H., George D., Lucy A., Harriett L., Charles (died June 14, 1883), Anna and Nathan. Mr. Coates was a second time married Oct. 12, 1837. She was a widow with one son, Willard A.
Mr. Coates has been Justice of the Peace six years and Road Commissioner
the same length of time. Himself and wife are members of the Baptist
Church.
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