Biography of George M. Benner
George M. Benner was a self-made success story from Williams County, admired for his determination and ethical conduct in business. Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Jacob and Irish-native Mary Benner in 1874, George moved to Ohio at a young age after his father’s death. He started his independent life as a farm laborer at 18 and eventually owned a thriving 60-acre farm where he focused on general farming and stock raising. On October 8, 1902, George married Mabel Thompson, and both were active in their Methodist Episcopal Church. Though politically active as a Republican, he did not seek office. George’s reputable character and business acumen earned him widespread respect in his community.