Robert Davison was reared on a farm near his present home, and received the educational advantages afforded by the common schools. At the age of 22 he began life for himself as a farm hand. His father afterward purchased 80 acres of land in Center Township, on which he made a payment of $1000 and gave the property to Robert on the condition that he was to pay off the indebtedness. At the time he left home, Mr. Davidson was married and then began farming in Center Township, where he lived until the fall of 1882. He did not, however, engaged in farming, but hired this work done while he devoted his energies to carpentering, enjoying a liberal patronage along that line. In the fall of 1883, he began merchandising in New Rochester, and though not experienced in this undertaking, his practical common sense, steady application, and perseverance soon enabled him to conduct his operations with the ease of an old-time merchant. For the first year and a half he was associated with a partner, but since that time has been the sole owner of his store, which is now one of the most extensive and profitable country stores in Wood County. As a merchant his sterling reliable, and has the confidence of all his patrons, which he values highly, and which has never been abused in the least degree. He erected his store building in New Rochester, also his residence, in addition to these owns two others in New Rochester, and one in Bradner.

Mr. Davidson was married in Center Township, October 22, 1873, when 21 years of age, to miss Jessie Bandeen, daughter of William and Jane Clark Bandeen. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson hold membership in the Presbyterian Church, taking an active part in its progress and upbuilding, while Mr. Davidson is serving as treasurer of the church, and is a teacher in the Sunday school. By his ballot he supports the Republican Party.

Biographical record of Wood County, Beers 1897, P. 1198-99 Contributed by Lavidaloca