James Blair Luyster, a farmer of Pleasant Township, was born on a farm three and one-half miles west of Franklin, August 22, 1855. He is the son of Hon. Henry H. and Mary I. (Carnahan) Luyster, whose history appears elsewhere in this book. He was reared on the old homestead. In summer he worked on the farm, and in winter attended the Hopewell Academy. He continued to pursue his studies in this institution until he reached the age of eighteen, and in addition to a common school education, he obtained a knowledge of algebra, rhetoric, philosophy and bookkeeping. January 1, 1878, he was married to Hattie D. McCaslin. She was born on a farm one mile and a half from Franklin, May 20, 1855, and was the daughter of Allen and Margaret (Ditmars) McCaslin, who still reside in Franklin Township. Ever since his marriage Mr. Luyster has pursued the vocation of a farmer. December 24, 1885, he removed with his family from Franklin Township to his present home in Pleasant Township. He and wife are the parents of four children: Jessie, born April 14, 1879; Homer, August 12, 1881; Gilbert, May 6, 1884, and Hattie, January 20, 1887, all of whom are now living. Mr. Luyster and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. The former is a member of the K. of P. lodge of Franklin, and in politics, he is an ardent republican. He was elected township trustee in 1887. He is a thoroughly reliable man in whom the public has full confidence. He and wife are highly respected.