The Ironton News

Squire W. H. Neal, known as the "Marryin' Justice of the Peace," who during his 30 years holding that office in the city married 2000 couples, will reach his 80th year of happy married life Sunday, and with his devoted wife, will quietly observe the Golden Wedding Anniversary at their home on Fourth and Park Ave.

It was on September 11, 1882 that William H. Neal and Miss Lida Grant, both of Etna Furnace, this county, came to Ironton, and were married at the parsonage of the Spencer Methodist Church, by Rev. J. I. Gardner. The parsonage then was located on Fifth street just below the present First M. E. Church while the court house was on the corner of Fifth and Center St.

Mr. Neal was a mine contractor at Etna, which was one of the busy iron centers of the county, and his blushing bride was a shy country girl, who loved flowers, and took much interest in home life. Mrs. Neal today, still loves flowers and always has a beautiful garden about her home.

Mr. Neal lost his limb in an accident and took up school teaching which profession he followed for it years and then became store keeper for the Halley Coal Co, in the county which position he held for years.

The Neals then moved to Ironton and he was elected Justice of the Peace of Upper township, to which office he was re-elected ten times, serving 20 years. He has always been a Democrat and to serve so many terms in a Republican county, indicates that the people held him in the highest esteem.

Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Neal, and three died in infancy. Those living are Ottus Neal, of Kendallville, Ohio; Harry Neal of Norwood, Ohio; Roy Neal of Hamilton, Ohio; Mrs. C. L. Simmons of Waycross, Ga. and Mrs. H. B. Layne of this city. Twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren will also join in extending their congratulations on the occasion of this happy event. Sunday.