Melton.James.W.1825.BIOS Page 650 JAMES W. MELTON is one of eight children born to James and Mary (Kendall) Melton, who were natives of South Carolina and Kentucky. The parents were married in Harrison County, Ind., and from there came to Orange County in 1819. James W., the third son, was born March 25, 1825, and he made his home with his mother until the time of his marriage, the father dying and leaving him at the age of four years to her care. His advantages for education were quite limited, although by diligence he succeeded in acquiring sufficient learning to transact the ordinary business of a farmer, which he has always successfully conducted. In politics he is a Democrat, and is one of the worthy and upright citizens of Greenfield Township, Orange County, Ind., where his whole life has been spent. His marriage with Miss Mary A. Ray was solemnized February 8, 1849, and of their five children these three are now living: Joel W., Melinda E. and Rhoda J. "HISTORY OF LAWRENCE, ORANGE & WASHINGTON COUNTIES INDIANA" GOODSPEED BROS. 1884. Submitted by: Diana Flynn Date: Fri, 11 Jul 1997