PLEASANT TOWNSHIP – Born in Pleasant Township to Jacob Joseph and Adaline (Arnold) Soliday, James grew up attending the local school. James was the oldest of four children. There was a gap between James and his brother, Daniel, due to Jacob away fighting in the Civil War. Based on the Census and directory records, he relocated to Liberty Township, where he became a hired hand to a local farm. Afterwards, James moved to Columbus, working as a machinist while living at 112 South Front Street, before gearing up as a Fireman on the C.H.V.&T. Railroad. James operated Engine No. 43 for 6 years before he was killed while connecting his train in Toledo. Living only two months and one day over 26 years old, his body was transported back to Pleasant Township where his remains lie in the Fetters Cemetery.