Beckwith, H. W. History of Fountain County, Indiana. Chicago: HH Hill, 1881, p. 418.
Thomas J. DURMAN, merchant, Harveysburg was born Sept 17, 1840 in Fayette co IN and is a
son of Harvey and Mary Moore Durman, both natives of VA. His father and mother live in
Harvesyburg. Both are members of the Methodist Church. Thomas' grandfather Durman
served under Harrison in the War of 1812. Thomas J. spent his youth on the farm. He
received but a limited education yet is a good business man. He enlisted in Co H 21st Ind
Vol. under Col. Keith. He fought int he battles of Baton Rouge; Donaldsonville; Gun Boat
Cotton; Port Hudson; Sabine Pass and smaller battles. After 3 years service he returned
home and resumed his farm labor till 1865. At that time he embarked in business at
Russell's Mills two years then moved to Harveysburg, where he opened a store and still
does a large trade. He now carries a stock of about $14,000 with annual sales of from
$25,000 to $30,000 his stock comprising dry goods, clothing, groceries etc. Mr. Durman is
solidly republican and a member of the Knights of Pythias. He was married May 21, 1867 to
Melinda P. THOMPSON daughter of Israel and Elizabeth Thompson old settlers of Parke
County but now of Harveysburg. Mrs. Durham was born in 1843. They have two children dead
and 3 living. Mr. and Mrs. Durman are members of Methodist Episcopal Church.