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Biography of Judge Sylvester Durflinger

From Madison Democrat 50th Anniversary
Published by the Madison Democrat, 1908

Was born in Jefferson township, April 20, 1836; son of Phillip and Mary Durflinger. Was reared on the farm and obtained his early education in the country schools. Entered Ohio Wesleyan in '54, graduating in 1860. Studied law with Hon. R. A. Harrison, but at the end of seven months, removed to Bloomington, Ill., where he entered as private, Company A, 33d Ill. Infantry. He served till July 11, 1865, was in the Vicksburg campaign and in many battles of the great rebellion. Returned to Madison county and in '66 was elected recorder, serving 3 years.

Judge Sylvester Durflinger

Continuing his law studies, he was admitted to the Bar in '69, and formed a partnership with Hon. George W. Wilson, which continued 18 years, but the friendship of the association still endures. In '71 he became Prosecuting Attorney, and held that office two terms. In '83 his party elected him to the State Senate for the 11th Senatorial District. He married Eliza J. Silver in 1867, who bore him two daughters, Mary K. Knowles, of East Liverpool, O., and Anna L., who has resided in Denmark for a number of years. His wife died May 23, 1878. September 18, 1879, he married Miss Mary A. Flanagan of Brookline. Three children, Florence, Lillian and Clarence, bless this union. Later he formed a partnership with P. R. Emery, Esq., which continued till January, 1904, when Governor Nash appointed him Judge of Court of Common Pleas for the Second Subdivision of the 5th Ohio Judicial district, to fill the unexpired term of Judge Hidy. February, the same year, he began his full term of five years as judge to which he had been elected in the fall of 1903. Judge Durflinger has been an ardent Republican since that party was formed. He is president of Board of Trustees of the First M.E. church of London. He has always taken an active interest in the affairs of the city, county and State. Is a member fo the Grand Army of the Republic, has been ten years trustee of the Ohio University, five years trustee of Columbus State Hospital, director of the London Exchange Bank, an enthusiastic worker for and a liberal contributor to all commendable enterprises that have for their object the well-being of the community. He has made a most excellent record as judge, is quiet, unassuming in manner, and much impressed with the proverb that though "speech is silver, silence is golden."



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