James M. Willis, was a self-made man and a model farmer. James was born in Chillicothe on January 20, 1808. His father, Nathaniel Willis, was the first printer in Ohio. Nathaniel printed for the convention which formed the constitution. He also founded the Scioto Gazette, which is considered to be the first newspaper in the state. James moved to this area in 1826. In 1833, he opened up a dry goods store in the nearby village. He successfully operated the store for 15 years. In 1848, he retired with a $50,000 profit. Mr. Willis owned 1,800 acres of excellent land. This house was one of the finest in the county at the time. It still is in my eyes.