Joseph V Finley, one of the well-known and prominent farmers of Mechanic Township, is a son of George Finley, who was born in Jefferson Co, Ohio, in 1827. David Finley, the grandfather of Joseph V, emigrated from County Donegal, Ireland, and located in Jefferson Co, Ohio, where he lived until his death. George Finley was reared in Jefferson Co, and in 1841 married Miss Priscilla, daughter of Joseph Van Buskirk,, a native of Holland, and a settler of Tuscarawas Co, Ohio. Immediately after marriage they came to Holmes Co, and for two years lived upon rented farms; then they purchased 100 acres of land, now included in the farm of their son Joseph, and by hard work paid for the same. Starting in life single-handed he made himself well-to-do by his own efforts, owning over 300 acres of land. He was a prominent worker in the ranks of the Democratic party, and filled various township offices. He joined the Presbyterian Church of Millersburg in 1844, and was a prominent member until his death in 1875. His first wife died Nov 4, 1864, and he was subsequently married to Miss Finwell, daughter of Frederick Hall, of Berlin Township, who died Apr 29, 1877. Twelve children were born to the first union, none to the second, four grew to maturity, and are still living: Alice, wife of John G Frizzell, of Stewart, IA; Joseph V; John A, of Coshocton Co, Ohio; Laura, wife of John T Wages, of Fillmore Co, NE.
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He was born on his parents farm, Nov 5, 1843. He received his education at the township schools and the Berlin Academy. After finishing his schooling he in turn began to teach, and followed that occupation for nine winters. In 1875 he was united in marriage with Miss Julia, daughter of Mordecai R Brink, of Killbuck Township, and they have eight children: Adah L, Alma E, George Clifford, Joseph Scott, Lelah May, Walter Leroy, Lloyd Stanton and John Elmer. Submitted by Jeanne Casner Yoakam to Ohio Bios.