John Niel
John Niel was born about 1802. A county history printed in 1913 says he was supposed to have been born where he grew up, in West Mahoning Township, Indiana County, Pennsylvania. He was a farmer and a miller.
He married Deborah Pierce, who was born on 25 April 1802. Her grave memorial dates the marriage to 1821. Both were Baptists, and the history calls them "excellent people." Their children were Samuel, David, Thomas, George, Margaret, Mary, James and Benjamin. Samuel married Ellen Lindsey. George settled in Banks Township, and Margaret married Samuel Adamson and later J. H. Rager. Mary became Mrs. Drummond.
Before his death John moved over the county line into Jefferson County. He died there on 1 October 1854, aged 52, and was buried in Devers Cemetery. His round-topped stone reads NIEL, DIED OCT. 1, 1854, AGED 52 YEARS. Deborah outlived him by twenty eight years.
Seven years after his death the Civil War began, and at least four of his sons served in it. Thomas was severely wounded several times. James was drafted in 1863 into the 101st Pennsylvania Volunteers. David enlisted in the 206th Pennsylvania Volunteers in 1864. Benjamin served more than three years, married Jane Findley while home on furlough, and was killed at the battle of Fair Oaks in Virginia after he went back to his regiment.
Children
Sources
If John Niel is in your family, start your own tree.
Cite: Heirology, "John Niel (1802-1854)", https://heirology.com/ancestors/john-niel-1802-1854-0182f0.