Harbert Family Stories
William J. Harbert was born in Madison County, Ohio on October 4, 1844. He was the son of Elijah and Rebecca (Harper) Harbert. He was raised on a farm and received a common-school education. He served with General Sherman in his march to the sea during the Civil War. William married Alvira A. Smith. They moved to Union County, then to Hardin County, and finally Delaware County, Ohio. William was a farmer and dealer in thoroughbred live stock. He had some of the finest horses, cattle, and sheep in Central Ohio. His famous Clydesdale horse, Robert Bruce or Thumper, was imported from Scotland in 1875 at a cost of $2,400. William and Alvira owned 123 acres of nicely improved land. He was a Republican and one of the prominent men of Delaware County.
