Salmon P. Odell was born in Reading, Hillsdale Co., Mich., May 6, 1846. He lived at home most of the time until 20 years of age, attending school until 17 years old, then working at carpentering. In the
spring of 1863 he first came to Newaygo County, remaining only a short time, then returned to Hillsdale County. In the fall of 1864 he enlisted in the 30th Mich. Inf, served nearly six months and
received an honorable discharge at Jackson, Mich., June 17, 1865. This regiment was raised for State duty, and, although mustered into the U. S. service, was not called into the field. He again came to Newaygo County in the spring of 1867, and purchased 40 acres of wild land in Sheridan Township. He built a board house and cleared only a portion of the land, when he sold his property to the Railroad Company and moved into the village of Fremont, engaging in business with his brother, J. R. Odell, dealer in drugs and groceries. He afterward took the stock of groceries, and for a short tinge carried on the business alone. He then sold out his stock, and after a short service with the Chicago & West Michigan Railroad Company, entered the employ of his brother, where he still continues.
Mr. Odell was married in what was then Sherman Township., but now Garfield, at the residence of, and by, Benjamin Alton, Esq., to Adelaide M., daughter of Elijah and Fidelia Fox, a native of Trumbull Co. Ohio. They have one child, Maurice, born June 9, 1871.
Mr. Odell has held the office of Township Clerk one year, and Deputy Marshal about three terms. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and has passed the chairs; he is also a member of Henry Dobson Post, G. A. R., and the Order of Chosen Friends. In politics he is neutral.