From "HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY,"  Vol. I, pages 718-719.
Brant & Fuller, 1890.


JOSEPH MAHOOD

One of the most prominent citizens of Benwood is Joseph Mahood, who 
first saw the light January 29, 1852, at a place then known as Flane 
Four.  His parents were James and Ellen (Battey) Mahood, who came to 
Benwood from the county Claven, Ireland, in 1852.   The father was 
drowned while discharging his duties as an employee of the B. & O. 
Railroad company, on their transfer-boat at this place.  Mr. and Mrs. 
Mahood were members of the Episcopalian church, and were respected by 
all with whom they came in contact.  Joseph Mahood's grandfather, 
Joseph Mahood, was one of the better class of farmers in Ireland, and 
a member of the Episcopalian church.  John Battey, his maternal 
grandfather, was also a native of Ireland, and was a refined and 
useful man, having been a commissioner of schools of county Cavan, 
and was for many years a very prominent Mason.  He was charitable and 
upright, always using his influence for the good of those about him.  
Joseph Mahood, our subject, at the age of fourteen began as a packer 
in the nail-mills of this city, and in 1868, learned nail-cutting, at 
which he worked until 1881, when he mastered the nailer's trade and 
has since followed this as his occupation.  In 1887 he was honored by 
an election to the city council, which office he filled for four 
months, at which time he was elected by council to fill the unexpired 
term of Square McJilton, as mayor of the city, and was subsequently 
chosen by the people to continue in this office, having served with 
dignity and efficiency.  Mr. Mahood has lately been re-elected mayor 
for two years.  He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the 
National Union.  He was married, April 9, 1876, to Miss Sarah J., 
daughter of Benjamin and Martha (Arlington) Bell.  They are 
industrious and respected people.  The father was for several years 
in the employ of the B. & O. railroad, as  a foreman.  Mr. and Mrs. 
Mahood are the parents of eight childen, they are:  James, Alverda, 
Sarah, Joseph, Frank, Ellen, George and Elizabeth Ann.  All of them 
live at home and they form a most interesting family.  The parents 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and enjoy the 
confidence and esteem of the community at large.  Mr. Mahood's 
popularity as mayor of the city, speaks much for his ability and 
probity.   


(Linda Fluharty)