Edward N. French, farmer, sec. 8; P. O. Milton; born in Caledonia Co., Vt., in 1829, the fourth son of Isaac and Rebecca (Folly) French, natives of that State, where they both died. The subject of this sketch emigrated to the West in 1849, and settled in Rock Co., Wis. Two years afterward he moved to this county and engaged as clerk with George Underwood in Milton.

While in this capacity he purchased 40 acres of land on sec. 4, a portion of which is included in his present estate of 330 acres, valued at $100 per acre. He was married in 1852 to Miss Sarah, second daughter of Daniel Hoover, by whom he has 4 children: Noel E., Mary A., George H., now a student of engineering in the University at Champaign, Ill., and William O. Mr. F. is a self-made man in every respect. His mother died when he was 7 years of age, and he was bound out until 14 years of age. Without the advantages of education he has accumulated a handsome landed property, secured by his own industry and close application to business. Is a Republican.

Source: History of Pike County by Charles M. CHapman 1880