James H. Maydole was born in Sharon, N.Y., July 24,1810. His parents were Alexander and Annah Van Valkenburg Maydole. The father was born in Albany, N.Y., Oct.5, 1777, and died June 10, 1818. The mother was born May 29,1773, and died Jan.15, 1854. They had nine children, viz: Catharine, Margaret, George, John J., Jacob, David, Alexander, James Henry and Anna Maria, five of whom are still living.

James Henry was the youngest of the sons, and after his father died he lived with his mother until he was sixteen. About this time he took what clothing he had, tied in a small bundle, and being entirely without money walked all the way from his mother's home in Cortland county to Binghamton, N.Y., during a severe snowstorm, where he bound himself to a Mr. Roberts to learn the blacksmith's trade. With him he remained until he was twenty-one. He then severed his connection with Mr. Roberts and went to Nineveh, now Colesville, N.Y., where he started in business for himself. He followed his trade there until 1836, at which time he removed to Log City, now Eaton, Madison county, and was employed by his brother David, then in business there, and who afterwards removed to Norwich, N.Y., and engaged largely in the manufacture of hammers, the excellence of which has gained for him a world-wide fame. James H, worked for his brother David until 1838, in which year, Sept. 4, he was married to Clarissa E., eldest daughter of Jabin and Clarissa E. Armstrong, of Lebanon, Madison county.

In 1840, he purchased the home in which he lived until he died, and which is still occupied by his widow, now Mrs. D. Storrs, and carried on business for himself in general blacksmithing and the manufacture of carriages and wagons. His death occurred July 22, 1868.

He was an upright and conscientious Christian man and was greatly beloved by all who knew him. He united with the Congregational church in Log City soon after his settlement there, and was a deacon, superintendent of the Sabbath-school and leader of the choir for many years. He was always liberal in support of the church and in aid of Christian work everywhere.

In Political sentiment he was first a Democrat, but after the formation of the Republican party he united with it, and was an earnest advocate of its principles and measures. He was never an office-seeker, but had he been, he might have been elected to the best offices in the gift of the people of his county.

He was pre-eminently a self made man. His early years were filled with hardships and privations, but these tended to develop the natural abilities and resources within him. By great energy, correct habits, and honest dealing he acquired a fine property and rose to distinction in his business. He had no children. Above biographical sketch was published in the History of Chenango & Madison Counties 1794-1880.