From "HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY,"  Vol. I, page 709.
Brant & Fuller, 1890.


THOMAS J. JOHNSON

Thomas J. Johnson, superintendent of the West Virginia penitentiary 
at Moundsville, is a native of the state, having been born in Putnam 
county, November 17, 1852.  His father, Robert Johnson, was a farmer 
by occupation, a citizen of much influence, and a member of the 
Catholic church.  He died in 1877 at the age of sixty-eight years, 
but his widow, Lucinda Thacker by maiden name, survives.  Of the 
fourteen children of these parents, twelve are living.  The subject 
of this mention, the second born, engaged in farming at the age of 
nineteen, and followed that occupation for ten years.  He then became 
chief of police of Malden, W.Va., a position he held two years, 
exhibiting marked qualifications as an officer.  Subsequently he was 
engaged in coal mining, and then as second mate of the steamers "D. 
T. Lane" and "Thomas Means," and after some service in the latter 
capacity he was appointed guard in the West Virginia penitentiary.  
From this he was promoted to captain of the guard, and then to 
superintendent, displaying in every position a strict fidelity to the 
interests of the public, and sleepless diligence as an officer.  
Politically Mr. Johnson is a democrat.  He is a member of the 
I.O.O.F., and his wife is affiliated with the Baptist church.  Mr. 
Johnson was married March 9, 1871, to Nancy, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Waters) Allen, of Marion county, Ohio, and they have four 
children: Joseph W., Hattie M., William, Walter, and Mina.

   
(Linda Fluharty)