The subject of this sketch belongs to that large and useful class of citizens known as selfmade men. Whatever success he has attained in life is the result of his own efforts, and in spite of fortune, which had classed him among the poor and toiling millions of our country. He was born the oldest son of Aaron Beardslee, October 24, 1825, in Sussex county, New Jersey. In 1832 he removed with his parents to Michigan, settling first on the Sashabaw plains, and the year following on section 13, which has since been his home. The only educational privileges he enjoyed were those afforded by the pioneer schools, and he could not avail himself of these to their fullest extent, because the circumstances of his parents often obliged him to remain at home to work, on the little farm they were opening. His father's death, when Orsamus was but thirteen years of age, left the care of the family to a large extent on his hands. He manfully assumed this charge, under the direction of his mother, and at the age of sixteen became sole manager of the farm, having ever since been a farmer in the township of Independence, and owning at present a fine tract of land. In December, 1847, he married Miss Jane Hibler, of Orion township, by whom he had one child, a son, John. He was bereaved of his partner in September, 1852, and three years later, in October, 1855, was married to his present wife, then Miss Clarissa Beardslee. This happy union has been blessed with five children, Estella, Aaron, Elmer, Susie, and Willie. Although closely devoted to his farming interests, Orsamus Beardslee has never neglected his duties as a citizen. He has ever manifested much concern in school matters, public improvements, and town affairs. His fellow citizens have appreciated this interest, and have often called him to assume the cares of office, as the records of the township attest.