Biography

Abner Cyrus Howard was born on December 20, 1812 in Ohio, probably in the Aberdeen area. On January 22, 1833 he married Nancy Knig. The 1850 census shows him as being a farmer in Distric 2, Huntington Twp. Brown Co. Ohio. It also shows that he owned property worth $500. The 1870 census confirms he was born in Ohio, as well as his wife and child Nancy A. It is in this census that he is shown to be a merchant, with real estate value of $1200 and personal property of $200. This designation as merchant is in reference to a store he owned in present day Elsberry , which at the time was known either by the name Taylorsville or California. This town by what ever name you choose is located approx. 3 miles above Aberdeen, and lines both sides of St. Rt. 41. It is at this store he operated as a shoecobbler. Among the documents we have for the store is a cryptic, currency style boot and shoe advertisment. Oral traditions and notes of C.P.H.SR. states he was a master arithmetic teacher, as well as being a music teacher. Abner is listed as one of the heirs to his father James Howard's estate. Among the documents we have are deed records, marrage records, bible records, death records, store reciepts, probate records. On January 26, 1872, Abner died of paralysis. Nancy followed him on August 20, 1872, dying of inflamation of the bowels. It is unknown where they are laid to rest.

Abner had what appears to have been a general store in the little community known then as California Ohio. We know he sold and repaired shoes from a handbill advertising his shop. We also believe he sold seed and other supplies to the local farmers. To day the community is called Elsberry and is on State Route 41 about 5 miles north of Aberdeen and the Ohio River.

Photo of the front of Abner's store.

Photo of Abner's Store another view.