John Michael who is conducting a feed barn at Bridgewater, was born in the state of New York, October 22, 1859, a son of Jacob and Sarah (Day) Michael. The father, who was a native of Pennsylvania, was married in New York, in wich state the birth of his wife occurred. They continued to reside there until called by death.
John Michael is one of a family of six children of whom four survive. He remained at home until 1885, when his marriage occurred, and continued to reside in New York for four years thereafter, when he came to Adair county, Iowa, where he remained but a short time before removing to Horton, Kansas. A year later he returned to this county and purchased a farm in Washington township which he operated for fourteen years. At the end of that time he rented his place and removed to Colorado, where he took up a homestead, upon which he lived for two years, after which he sold his place and again became a resident of Adair county, locating in Bridgewater, where he owns and conducts a feed barn. He understands his business thoroughly, is energetic and reliable and has gained a large and lucrative patronage. He still owns his farm in this county, from which he derives a gratifying addition to his income.
Mr. Michael was married in 1883 to Miss May Skellenger, who was born in New York and is a daughter of John and Harriet (Batterson) Skellenger, both likewise natives of the Empire state. However, they removed to Iowa in an early day in the history of this state and resided here for four years, after which they returned to New York, where they lived for seven years. At the end of that time they came against to this county, driving through with teams and being eight weeks on the way. Both passed away here. Mr. and Mr.s Michael have no children but have reared a nephew, C. E. Michael, whom they took when he was but eighteen months old. He is now living upon the farm belonging to our subject.
Mr. Michael is a republican and has consistently supported the candidates of that party at the polls. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church of Bridgewater and no worthy cause appeals to them for support in vain. He is a successful business man and a valued citizen of his community. | 
