M. A. Holcomb was born in Paris, Portage Co., Ohio, Jan. 27, 1826. He is the son of Jarvin and Candace (Delong) Holcomb, the former a native of Connecticut, the latter of Vermont. His parents went to Portage county in 1814, where the father died in 1850. The mother lives there and alternately with her son. At the age of 18 Mr. H. began to work at wagon and carriage making, which he continued until 1850, when he went to California to make a swifter fortune in its gold fields. He operated chiefly in Calaveras county, mining and plying his trade. In 1854 he returned home, and the same year bought 160 acres of land where he now resides. He enlisted in his country's service in the 26th Mich. Inf. Vol., Co. I, and was wounded at Spottsylvania, after which he was not in active service. He was discharged in 1865. He has held the position of Tp. (Twp.) Treasurer two terms, and Commissioner of Highways, and was Census Enumerator in 1880. Is a member of the Masonic order, Lodge No. 90; Hooker Chapter, No. 73; Ionia Commandery, No. 11. He was married Feb. 7, 1849, to Philancia Patchin, of Geauga Co., Ohio. She was born July 6, 1829, and died Dec. 31, 1879, leaving three children - Denman D. (now in Dakota Territory), Emily C. and Candace C. Geo. B. died at the age of 17, in 1874.