From "HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY,"  Vol. I, pages 676-677.
Brant & Fuller, 1890.


F. M. BOWERS

F. M. Bowers is one of five children born to E. W. and Rebecca 
(Bendell) Bowers.  The father was one of the first school 
commissioners of Marshall county, and helped to build the first 
public school buildings in the rural districts of his section of the 
state.  The mother is an estimable woman, and has been a very active 
member of the Presbyterian church for many years.  Their children 
are:  Alonzo, Cassius, Jennie, F. M. and Harry.  The paternal 
grandparents, James Bowers and wife, came to Benwood in 1847, from 
Pennsylvania, and have resided here since.  James Bowers is an iron 
worker, having been employed at his trade of iron roller for years.  
F. M. Bowers began for himself by working as a laborer at the rolls 
in the mills of his native town.  After leaving the mills Mr. Bowers 
engaged in the general merchandise business, and has since been very 
successful in this pursuit.   In 1877 Miss Dora, daughter of Henry W. 
and Elizabeth (Faatz) Fisher, became his wife.  Her parents were well 
and favorably known in this community for many years.  Mr. Fisher 
bought the old company store at this place and was the first man 
engaged in the merchandise business in Benwood who employed his own 
capital in the business.  Both he and his wife were useful members of 
the Lutheran church.  Mr. and Mrs. Bowers have had five children: 
Seamon, Walter, Floyd, Albert and Rhea.  Walter and Floyd are 
deceased.  Mr. Bowers has been prominent in the public affairs of the 
city, having served as treasurer for one year, and he discharged the 
important duties of this office with great credit to himself and with  
great benefit to the city.  In politics he is a republican.  He is 
also a member of the K. of P.  A man of ability and probity.


(Linda Fluharty)