Nelson Hamilton Aton, one of the best mechanics in Union
County, is the son of John and Susana (Thomas) Aton. John, a blacksmith, was
born in Adair County, Kentucky, October 20, 1800. In 1822 he moved to
Washington County, Indiana, and the same year married, In 1843 he settled in
Union, and in 1860 died in East St. Louis, Illinois. Subject's grandfather,
John Aton, came from Germany when but three years old. Susana Aton, our
subject's mother, was born in North Carolina in 1803, came to Union about 1820,
and died in North Carolina about 1856.
Out subject was born in Washington County, Indiana, two and
a half miles from Salem, December 7, 1825. Under his father he learned his
trade, and is considered one of the best blacksmiths and machinists in the
county. He has invented all kinds of farm implements in his life, many of which
are being used in the county now. His "new-ground" and "hill-side" plows are
being used everywhere. Mr. Aton also owns and manages a farm of 102 acres, half
of which is now in cultivation. His shop, 40x42 feet, was built in 1847. Very
frequently he had as many as three hands assisting him. The dwelling now
occupied by him was built in 1859. It is a nice two-story frame well arranged,
with eight rooms. All of subject's ancestors were strict Catholics. He is and
has always been a Democrat. Mr. Aton received his education in Indiana schools.
The old gentleman is a fine talker, and has a splendid memory, which has aided
us greatly in the line of casualties, etc.
On January 26, 1847, Mr. Aton married Elizabeth Ann
Cissell. She is the daughter of Charles and Catherine (McPherson) Cissell. Her
father was born in Indiana in 1790, settled in Union in 1820, and died here in
1863. Her mother was born in Maryland in 1787, and died in Union County in
1856. Our subject has the following children: William Franklin, a blacksmith,
living in Morganfield Precinct, married Emma C Alvey and has two children.
Jefferson Douglas, a blacksmith in Corydon, Ky., married Mary Diskin; they have
three children. Susana, married John W. Stuart, a farmer in the county, and has
one child. Thomas Pascal, a painter, now living in Arkansas, married Maria
Janette Berry and has two children. Mary Ada married Austin Frame, a farmer
living in the county. Subject's single children are Samuel Henry, Edward
Walter, Eugene, Charles, and Martin Travis.
Mr. Aton is a man greatly respected in his community, and,
though the father of eleven children, has succeeded in raising them up to be
honorable men and women.
