Speaks was born in Canal Winchester, Ohio, the son of a grain merchant and contractor.

He returned to Ohio and settled in Canal Winchester, Franklin County.

He died at Canal Winchester, Ohio, April 10, 1881.

In 1869, the railroad came to Canal Winchester, bringing continued prosperity.

The 2004 census estimates that there are now 5,381 people residing in the village, and Canal Winchester may become a city within the next year or two.

Canal Winchester host the Labor Day Festival which usually takes place the first weekend of September.

Canal Winchester's levy was the only school issue in Franklin County to win voters' approval.

At this time, the ownership of the bridge was transferred to the village of Canal Winchester.

Born in Canal Winchester, Ohio, Speaks attended the public schools.

He married Edna Lawyer of Canal Winchester in 1889, and had three children.