The life of David Applegate should encourage young men who are striving to amass means to secure a home of their own. It will also teach them that industry brings its own rewards, and that faithful effort never goes unrequited.

He was born in Tompkins county, New York, May 15, 1809. When but a lad of fifteen he left his home to earn his own livelihood. His first work was a job to clear a wood lot. This he did to the great satisfaction of his employer. He then hired out among farmers, attending school a few months each year, until he was eighteen years old. Then he went to Monroe county, where he lived a number of years. In 1833, having then accumulated four hundred dollars, he married Louisa, daughter of Daniel Potter, of Chili, Monroe county. New York. A year thereafter, in 1834, he came to Oakland County, Michigan, becoming a citizen of Oxford township, which has been his home ever since.

After living on the frontier a number of years, and enduring the hardships incident to such a life, Mr. Applegate has become possessed of a good home, containing the comforts of life, with neighbors on every hand, who hold him in great esteem on account of his integrity and upright character.

Although never actively interested in politics, Mr. Applegate has never shirked the duties of a citizen, but has always sought to discharge every responsibility imposed on him in a faithful manner. He has held various offices of honor and trust, and was justice of the peace for many years.

Mr. Applegate has a family of two children, who have grown to years of maturity and now live in the neighborhood of their parents, who are still hale and vigorous.