1850 he was living with his parents in Monroe Twp, Guernsey Co OH. He, his wife and 1 1/2 year old son were living with the family of his brother Joseph in 1860 in Middlebury Tp, Knox Co OH.
He is listed in the Civil War Draft Registration records for 30 Jun 1863 in Mt Vernon as age 30, born in OH, married and a Farmer. He then enlisted on 23 Feb 1865 and was a Private until discharged on 4 Aug 1865.
Listed in the History of Knox County, Ohio pg 832 -
Fredericktown Baker and Grocer. Started his business in 1867, where he has built up a good trade. He is a first-class baker, and is prepared to meet the wants of the public in his line.
In 1870 he lived in Fredericktown, as a grocer with his own store and 3 sons ($1,400 land). In 1880 he was living on Main St of Fredericktown, Wayne Tp, Knox Co as a Baker and Grocer with his 3 sons and wife. In 1900 he was still living in Fredericktown, Wayne Twp, was a baker, where he owned his own home. He and his wife, Ann, lived alone. On March 9th, 1905 he was declared insane and his wife, Ann, was appointed guardian. He had $350 cash and a business block in Fredericktown worth $1,500 which paid annual rents of $175 at the time, and was listed as age 70.
[Obituary] - Mt Vernon Democratic Banner 10 Jan 1908:
Word was received in Fredericktown Thursday morning announcing the death of George W. Wells, who died at the State hospital for the insane at Columbus Thursday morning. Mr. Wells had been an inmate at the institution for about four years. He is survived by a wife and several children. The remains will be buried at Fredericktown.
[Obituary] - Knox County Republican 11 Jan 1908:
George W. Wells who was interred in Forest Cemetery was one of the best known men of the community. He was born in Fayette County, Penn. in 1832, and came to Ohio with his parents in 1835. Mr. Wells was engaged in the grocery and bakery business in this place for many years, having first engaged in business here in 1867. He was a very patriotic citizen, and no national holiday or event came that the stars and stripes did not float above his place of business. He was kind, jovial and sympathetic. He leaves a wife and 3 sons; David L., traveling passenger agent of the Erie Railroad, William M. of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Fred of Chicago.
Listed in Section 3E of the Forest Cemetery records for Fredericktown (1832-1908).
His estate amounted to $1,034.75, but once all expenses were paid, only $141.46 remained which went to his widow.