James N. Ardery,  farmer, P.O. Billingsville, was born in Franklin County, Ind., April 23, 1825.  His parents,  James  and  Mary (Watson) Ardery, were born, reared and married in Harrison County, Ky.  In 1817, they came to Franklin County, Ind., and located in Springfield Township.  They ever after resided there, and to them was born a family of eight children, four of whom are now living.  They were industrious, intelligent people, and had the respect of all who knew them.  James Ardery was brought up to hard work and received such education as the log schoolhouse of that early day afforded.  Soon after reaching his majority, he began for himself by working by the month upon a farm, taking contracts for clearing land, or anything he could honorably make a penny at.  He carefully saved his money, and after a few years purchased a tract of land in Shelby County, Ind.  He kept dealing in real estate in different portions of the State for some time, but continued to reside in Union County.  He also dealt in live stock during this time, and in all his undertakings was quite successful.  He was united in marriage with  Miss Margaret Goff  October 3, 1850.  This lady was born in Bath Township, Franklin Co., Ind., July 15, 1834.  By this union there were ten children –  John,  Leander,  James,  Albert,  Dora,  Ellsworth,  Mary,  Laura,  Franklin  and  Omar.  In 1864, Mr. Ardery purchased his present farm and has since added to it until he owns 258 acres.  He has made what he now possesses by close attention to business and by economy, and is a practical and successful farmer and stockraiser.  He is a Republican, and a useful and progressive citizen.
Atlas of Union County, Indiana,  J. H. Beers & Co, Chicago, IL, 1884, pg 60.

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