WILLIAM J. PAYNE, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Adams Township, Seneca Co. Ohio, born February 8, 1843, son of John W. and Susan (Rule) Payne, who moved from Pickaway County to Seneca County, about 1832, and to Thompson Township, in 1860; they both died in this county. His grandfather Payne moved here from Pickaway County, Ohio, about 1832, and his grandfather Rule moved here from New York State about the same time or a little later. The subject of this sketch was reared in Thompson Township, as a farmer, and was married, in 1865, to Sophronia Gambee of Reed Township, this county, born May 25, 1844, a daughter of Solomon and Mary Gambee, also of Reed Township, where they were early settlers, having come from New York State. In 1875 Mr. Payne returned to Adams Township, where he purchased land on which he now resides and follows general agricultural pursuits; he also operates a hay and straw press. He served a few months in the late war; has filled several of the township offices. He is the father of five children: Lucy E., John W., Ai, Jesse O. and Bessie L.


Trancribed by Bonnie Walsh.
WARNER, BEERS & CO., 1886
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, Part IV, p.709
ADAMS TOWNSHIP