The History of Hendricks County (Chicago: Interstate Publishing, 1885)--Brown Township, page 474
James Ballard was born in Scott County, Ky., Feb. 26, 1815, a son of Beverly and Hannah Ballard. In 1834 he accompanied his parents to Marion County, Ind., and the following year to Hendricks County, locating in the eastern part of Lincoln Township. Of a large family of children, but five are living--James, George, Amanda, Grandison and John C. James Ballard was reared on a farm, receiving a common-school education, and after leaving school engaged in teaching a short time. In 1840 he settled on his present farm on section 6, Brown Township, where he owns 125 acres of valuable land. He is one of the leading agriculturists of the township, and a prominent and popular citizen. He has served as Trustee of Brown Township one year, Justice of the Peace five years, and several years as Assessor. Mr. Ballard was married Jan. 2, 1840, to Sarah Corbaley, daughter of Jeremiah and Jane Corbaley, of Marion County, Ind. To them have been born twelve children, nine of whom are living--Hannah, Emily A., Francis M., Melvina, Zerelda, Albert, Mollie, America, and Ettie S.