Source: 1891 HISTORY OF CLARK & JACKSON CO, WI, pg. 292-293.

MERVILLE MASON, one of the most worthy citizens of Pine Valley Township, Clark County, is a native of Scotland, born September 21, 1813. His father came to Massachusetts at an early day and spent the rest of his life in this country. Merville remained with his parents until he was fifteen years old. His education was obtained chiefly through his own efforts. He attended the institute at Clinton, Oneida County, New York, and devoted fifteen years of his life to the profession of teaching. In 1863 Mr. Mason came to Clark County, Wisconsin, and bought 360 acres of land. Here he engaged in agricultural pursuits for many years. Since coming to this State he has also been engaged in civil engineering, teaching and in the lumber business.

In 1849 Mr. Mason married Maria Pixley, who was born in Massachusetts in 1823. She received her early education in her Native State and graduated at Oberlin College, Ohio, in the class of 1847. She also taught school a number of years. During her life she was noted for her kindness and intelligence. Mrs. Mason was an active worker in the cause of anti-slavery, woman suffrage and prohibition, and was a conspicuous member of the W. C. T. U. Seven children were born to them, six of whom are living, namely: Alice, Mary, Milo, Irvin W., Martha, Walter and Bertha. All were thoroughly educated by their mother who gave them private instructions.

In his early life Mr. Mason was a strong anti-slavery man and bitterly fought the fugitive slave law. While living in Ohio he was instrumental in securing the liberty of many a slave. He was one of the agents of the underground railroad of Wisconsin. He relates the following incident: One night about twelve o'clock he was awakened to find a colored man and his family at the door. The poor run-away slave begged for help to make his escape into Canada, saying that the officers were in close pursuit of them. In the morning Mr. Mason went to a neighbor and told him the circumstances of this case. He, however, would render no assistance. Then Mr. Mason called upon another neighbor and found him more lenient than the Republican. This last neighbor remarked that if the d-----d slave had made his way this far he ought to be helped on and gave $5 to aid in securing his passage to Canada.

Mr. Mason is now well advanced in years. Much of his time is spent in reading, and in scientific research, in which he takes great pleasure.