Joseph Baker, farmer, P. O., Marshall. Was born in Ross county, Ohio, in 1822. His early life was passed on a farm. Was educated in the public schools. In April, 1846, he was married to Miss Charlotte Byers, of same county. Ten children were born to them, as follows: Wm. Joseph, Edward, Josiah, Minerva, wife of Chas. Norton, of Slater: John, Elisha, Theodore and James. In 1861, Mr. Baker enlisted in the Federal army, Capt. S. Orange’s company, under Gen. Sigel. Although a private, he was given the title of "Col." by his comrades, for valorous conduct at the battle of Strasburg, Virginia, having assumed command of his regiment, which, with its officers, was in full retreat, ordering it to halt and face the enemy, which command was obeyed, resulting finally in the total rout of the Confederates. He was engaged at the second battle of Bull Run, where he, with 1,200 others, was taken prisoner, paroled and sent to Columbus, Ohio. He was suffering then, and is now, from a disease contracted in the service, in consequence of which he has made application for a pension. After the war, he returned home in Ross county, Ohio, where he resided until 1871, when he came to Saline county and engaged in farming and dealing in stock.
