JOHN BARKS, farmer, section 32, Dayton Township, is a son of John D. and Sophia C. (Cool) Barks, and was born in Marion Co., Ohio, July 20, 1843. His parents were natives of Ohio, and moved to LaGrange Co., Ind., when John was but two years old, and lived there until they came to Michigan.
John Barks, the subject of this sketch, came to Muskegon in 1865, and worked there and at other places for three years. In 1867 he moved upon his farm of 80 acres, which he had previously purchsed, and now has 60 acres in good cultivation. In the winter of 1872 he married Emeline Palmer, who died Sept., 20, 1876; in 1878 he married Helen, second daughter of Smith and Mary (Ellsworth) McDonald, a native of Canada. Their two children are Americus and Camalena. In August, 1862, Mr. B. enlisted in the 100th Inf. and served nearly three years, in the 4th Division of the 15th Army Corps, under Sherman, participating in the engagements at Visksburg, Atlanta, Chattanooga and in the march to the sea; and was present at the capture of Richmond. He was in a great many engagements, but never, received even the slightest wound.