Shinar Preston

Shinar Preston

SHINAR PRESTON, is a son of William and Margaret (Barnhard) Preston, and was born in Ohio, Aug, 15, 1839. His father was a native of Vermont and mother of Ohio. They first settled in Ohio, and remained there until his father's death. His mother now lives in Kent Co., Mich., with one of her children. Mr. Preston lived in Ohio until he was 11 years of age, then came to Michigan with his mother, with whom he made his home till 22 years of age. March 12, 1862, he enlisted in the 3d Mich. Inf., and served three years, taking part in many important battles. Among them were those of Gettysburg, battle of the Wilderness, Williamsburg (Va.), Mine Run, Locust Grove and seige of Yorktown. He was honorably discharges at Elmira, N.Y., in March, 1865, and at once returned to Newaygo County, where his mother was then living.

Previous to his enlistment he had made a purchase of 120 acres of land, about five of which were improved. He settled on this land and began at once to make improvements. He has since added to his estate at different times, until he now owns 360 acres, 200 of which are being well cultivated. He was married in Dayton Township, March 17, 1862, to Eugenia, daughter of Frederick and Keziah (Hopkins) Dickison, who was born i New York, March 2, 1846. Her parents were natives of Connecticut and New York respectively, and came to Michigan about the year 1859, settling in Dayton Township. Mr. and Mrs. Preston have had ten children: Reno S., Nellie L., Lester P., Nettie E., Kearney N., Mary O., Frank C. and William F. Two children died in infancy.

Politically, Mr. Preston is a Republican. He has held the office of Highway Commissioner, School Inspector and Justice of the Peace; has also been a member of Fremont Grange, No. 494, Patrons Husbandry.

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