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PIKE TOWNSHIP - 1011 PIKE TOWNSHIP. WILLIAM A. ARNETT, wagon-maker, Dialton. His grandfather, Seth Arnett, moved to this county from Virginia about the year 1800, and settled on Mad River, near what was then known as New Boston. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. His father, Thomas Arnett, was born Dec. 10, 1806, on a farm three miles west of Springfield, and now owned by Peter Lentz. His mother's name was Mary Kills. His grandfather Kills moved from Pennsylvania, and owned a paper-mill three miles below New Boston, in about the year 1826. He afterward owned and run one in Springfield for a number of years. His grandmother Kills was a Quaker from Pennsylvania, whose hospitality will be remembered by many of the earlier settlers. His father and mother were married in 1827. William Arnett, the subject of this sketch, was born Nov. 28, 1829, in Springfield, on the corner of Columbia and Factory streets, where his mother now resides. He is the oldest of eleven children, of whom seven are boys and four are girls. When he was old enough, he went into the shop with his father, who was a carriage and wagon maker, and stayed with him until he was 18 years old, when his father died. He then, in company with his mother, carried on the business until he was 24 years old, when he carried into execution his desire to go West. He went to Iowa, where he soon became acquainted with Miss Anna Minto, and they were married within a year. That important step was taken Dec. 8, 1852. In May, 1853, they returned to Springfield, where he followed his trade until the year 1854, when they moved to Dialton, where he has been carrying on the carriage and wagon-making business ever since. J. M. AUSTIN, physician, North Hampton. The father of Mr. Austin was born in North Carolina in 1808, moved to this State with his parents in 1812, and set tled in Clinton Co. He was married to Elizabeth Darby in 1837, and had by her seven children; of whom our subject is the youngest. He was born in 1848, and spent his boyhood days on the farm of his parents. He received a common-school education, 1012 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: taught school three years, and then commenced the study of medicine with Dr. J. Watkins, of Clinton Co. He graduated from the E. M. Institute, and, in 1874, commenced the practice of his profession in Westboro, in his native county, but left there Nov. 19, of the same year, and located where he now lives. He was married, in 1874, to Miss Florence Hodson, of Clinton Co., and had born to him three children-Pearl H., Grace I. and Howard H. Of these, the oldest died in 1876. M. R. AYRES, farmer; P. O. Christianburg, Champaign Co. The subject of this sketch is the son of Caleb and Esther Ayres, who were natives of New Jersey ; they were united in marriage in 1816 and emigrated to Ohio in 1818, but did not settle permanently until 1828, when they located in Pike Township, on the farm where his son, M. R , now resides; Mrs. Ayres departed this life Aug. 20, 1835, at the age of 46 years; they were, both Seven-Day Baptists. Mr. Ayres celebrated his marriage with his second wife (Lydia Babcock) in 1837. M. R, the subject of this sketch, was born in New Jersey Dec. 5, 1817; his boyhood days were spent at home, assisting his father with the duties of the farm and going to school during the winters. He was married to Margaret Priest, born Oct. 28, 1812, the daughter of Elijah and Hannah Priest, who settled in this county in 1818; they (Mr. and Mrs. Ayres) are the parents of one son and four daughters, all of whom are now living, viz.: Sarah, born Aug. 21,1840; Louisa, born Oct. 4, 1842; Elias, born Aug. 16, 1846; Maria, born May 26; 1850; Margaret P., born April 20, 1853. As an evidence of the popularity and esteem with which he was held in the community where he lived, he was elected Trustee of his township and other offices, the duties of which were discharged by him to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. Mr. Ayres is a member of the Christian Church, and holds several offices in the same. He has always taken a deep interest in politics, and his principles are identified with the Democratic party. SAMUEL M. BAKER, farmer; P. O. Dalton ; is the son of Martin and Elizabeth Baker, who were natives of Virginia and moved to Clark Co. about 1823 and purchased 53 acres of land, where he remained until his death July 20, 1854; Mrs. Baker survived him until March 6, 1870. They were both consistent members of the Re formed Church. Samuel M., the subject of this memoir, was born Dec. 10, 1830, and assisted his father until his (father's) death, after which he managed the farm until 1869, when he purchased the farm where he now resides. - Sept. 26, 1871, he celebrated his marriage to Malinda, daughter of David and Elizabeth Jenkins ; this union was blessed with four children-Viola G. and Sidney G. (twins), born June 22, 1872, and Asa M. and Charles 0. (twins), born July 13, 1877. Mr. Baker has never been an aspirant for office, but has served his township in the office of Trustee with honor to himself and his constituents. On the breaking-out of the rebellion, he volunteered his services, enlisting in Co. I, 44th O. V. I., Sept. 12, 1861, serving his country until the close of the war, receiving his discharge on Aug. 9, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Baker are members of the Reformed Church, Mr. Baker having been Sabbath-school Superintendent and teacher for over twenty years, and has been honored with the offices of Deacon and Elder in the church for a number of years. They are surrounded with all the comforts of life, earned by the incessant toil of years. ANTHONY BARNHART, farmer; P. O. North Hampton. The gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch is the son of Daniel and Catharine Barnhart, natives of Roanoke Co., Va.; Daniel was married twice, but the date of the marriage with his first wife and of her death cannot be ascertained ; he was the father of twenty-two children-two sons and nine daughters by the first wife, seven of whom are now living, viz.: Lydia, born July 17, 1814 ; Hannah, born July 2,1816 ; Susannah, born Feb. 24, 1818; Frances, born March 26, 1820; Joel, born March 4, 1822; Nancy, born Oct. 15, 1827 ; John, born May 4, 1830 ; and by his second marriage he had nine sons and two daughters, six now living, viz.: Daniel, born Sept. 22, 1836; Anthony, born Dec. 25, 1837; Abraham, born Sept. 28; 1839; Jeremiah and Josiah (twins), born Dec. 30, 1844 ; Christian, born Jan. 13, 1847. Mrs. Barnhart departed this life in July, 1867, and Mr. Barnhart followed her in 1869. Anthony assisted his father with the farm labor until he was 21 years of age, and then came to Ohio and located in this PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1013 county and township. In October, 1859, he celebrated his marriage with Sarah, daughter of Philip and Lucinda (Rader) Grayhill, natives of Virginia. Soon after his marriage he moved to Indiana and remained there two and a half years, and came back to this township and purchased the farm where he now resides. He is the father of eleven children, viz.: William W., born June 23, 1860; Josephus E., born July 15, 1862; Henry A., born Oct. 8, 1863; John F., born. Nov. 16, 1865; George W., born Nov. 10, 1867; Mary E., born Dec. 16, 1869; Margaret E., born Oct. 22, 1871, Nora L., born July 18, 1874; Asa C. and Jessie K. (twins), born July 24, 1876; Hettie F., born June 2, 1879. Mr. Barnhart has a beautiful farm of 100 acres, under a high state of cultivation, also a very desirable residence with improvements to correspond. JACOB BAUGH, farmer and blacksmith; P. O. New Carlisle. Among Pike's enterprising men may be placed the name of Jacob Baugh, a native of Germany, is the son of Christian and Catharine (Smith) Baugh, who emigrated to this country in 1832, and settled in Pennsylvania, where they remained one year, and came to Columbus, Ohio, and engaged work on the national roads, remaining one year. In the year 1834, he was placed near Springfield, Ohio, remaining several years. After leaving the road he followed various pursuits until his death. Jacob, the subject of this memoir, was born Oct. 9, 1830, and at the age of 16 years be commenced serving an apprenticeship in the blacksmith-shop of Peter Lenas at Donnelsville, with whom he remained eighteen months, and went to Springfield, and, at the end of nineteen months, finished his trade under John Click. In the year 1850, he engaged with Solomon Marley, serving him two years, after which he associated himself with Christian Foster, and withdrew at the end of seven months. Mr. Baugh has been twice -married. On Oct. 9, 1855, he married his first wife, Margaretta Bickel, and came to Pike Township and purchased thirty acres of land, and built a residence in which he remained seven years, and disposed of it and bought the property he has at present. Mr. Baugh was left a widower July 7, 1868. Elizabeth, his second wife, was the daughter of Thomas and Mary Bules, of Champaign Co., Ohio. Mr. Baugh was the father of six children by his first wife; three now living-George W., born Aug. 25, 1856; Jacob, July 15, 1858; Clark, June 27, 1863. REBECCA BLACK, New Carlisle; is the wife of Andrew Black and the daughter of Louis and Mary Carmin. Her parents were from Maryland and Virginia, respectively. Her grandparents, Benjamin and Elizabeth Carmin, the former a native of Blackford Co., Md., emigrated to Ohio about the year 1812, settling in Pike Township, this county. Louis was born April 13, 1800, and his wife Mary Oct. 2, 1807. They were married in the year 1825, and became the parents of fourteen children, eleven of whom are still living. Louis died in 1874. Mary is still living. The names of the children are as follows: Elizabeth, John, Benjamin, James, Hannah, Mary A., Zilpah, William, Rebecca, David, Louis, Jane, Emily and Abrabam, all living but three. Our subject was born in this county Aug. 13, 1841, and was united in marriage with Andrew Black, the son of Andrew and and Susannah (Ross) Black, the first settlers in what is now Pike Township, Nov. 26, 1868, which union was blessed with one child-Andrew K., born March 18, 1881. Andrew Black, the husband of our subject, was born on the farm where he now resides Nov. 30, 1816. His parents were natives of Montgomery Co., Va. ; father born March 6, 1783; mother, Dec. 7, 1781 ; were married Dec. 20, 1804 ; became the parents of nine children-Samuel A., Mary, James, William, Thomas, Jane, Andrew, Edward and Susannah. Father died Oct. 18, 1854; mother Sept. 25, 1815. Andrew had been previously married to Catharine Black, by whom he had seven children, only two of whom are now living-Cyrus and Janettie, the former born Sept. 18, 1848, and the latter Sept. 12, 1856. The mother of these children died Sept. 8, 1868. Our subject and husband are members of the Presbyterian Church. JOHN BLACK, farmer; is the son of John and Elizabeth (Ross) Black. who were both natives of Virginia, and came to Ohio and settled upon the farm where the subject of this sketch now resides, about 1808, where he spent the balance of his days. They were the parents of eight children-one son and seven daughters, of whom five 1014 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: are now living. The first death in the family occurred September, 1873, viz., Elizabeth, born Dec. 29, 1820. John, the subject of this sketch, always remained on the home farm. He celebrated his marriage with Mary A. Wise April 18, 1871. Four children were born to bless this union, viz., Martha J., born Feb. 3, 1876: Edna Amelia, born Sept. 18, 18 7 2 ; John S., born April,18,1878 ; infant, born Oct. 12, 1880. Mr. Black is the proprietor of 200 acres of land, with good outbuildings. Mr. Black possesses good business qualifications, and is looked upon by all who deal with him as an upright and honest man. Mrs. Black is a member of the Presbyterian Church at Osborn, and is looked upon as a good Christian woman. John Black died Aug. 12, 1835, aged 47 years; Elizabeth Black died May 5, 1859, aged 73 years. A. B. BLACK, physician, New Carlisle. Samuel Black was the son of John Black, and was born near Londonderry, Ireland, about A. D.1734. He was of Scotch parentage, they having emigrated from Scotland to Ireland. John Black emigrated to America about A. D. 1744, and settled upon the Brandywine River, in New Jersey, where they remained a short time, when they moved to Albemarle Co., Va., where Samuel was united in marriage with Jane Porter. By this union they had nine children-four sons and five daughters-all lived to raise large families. John, who married Jane Alexander; William, who married Jane McBeth ; James; Samuel, who married Jane Porter; Jane, who married Mathew Alexander; Martha, who married - McCormick; Nancy, who married - Price; Mary, who married Black. Samuel and Jane (Porter) Black died in Albemarle Co. Va. March 28,1793, William Black was united in marriage with Jane McBeth, daughter of Andrew and Sarah (Clinton) McBeth, of Albemarle Co., Va. After their marriage they settled in Montgomery Co., Va., where he laid out the town of Blacksburg. While there, they had six children born unto them; five raised large families, three sons and two daughters-Samuel, born Sept. 13, 1794, married Malinda Mitchell Nov. 20, 1817; Sallie, born May 20, 1796, married William Reyburn June 13, 1816; Agnes, born April 18, 1798, married Giles W. Thomas March 18, 1816; William Porter, born April 26, 1800, married Susanna Verdier Nov. 16, 1820 ; Andrew Clinton, born July 21, 1802; John, born July 29, 1804, died April 14, 1806. In May, 1814, he moved with his family to this township, where they arrived June 14, 1814. He purchased a part of Sections 13 and 19, upon which they settled, where they spent their last days with their son, Andrew C. Jane (McBeth) Black died Jan. 23, 1843, aged 77 years; William Black died Dec. 22, 1851, aged 84 years, 10 months and 8 days. October 20, 1825, Andrew C. was united in marriage with Provy Baker Standiford, daughter of Elijah and Rebecca (Rouse) Standiford. She was born in Mason Co., Ky., Jan. 5, 1806, and emigrated to Champaign Co., Ohio, with her parents January, 1807, where she continued to live until her marriage, at which time they settled upon a part of Sections 13 and 19, where she still lives. Her husband, A. C., died Feb. 25, 1875, aged 72 years 7 months and 4 days. They were the parents of thirteen children, seven now living, five sons and two daughters, viz., Rebecca Ann, born March 10, 1828; married to William Funstone March 18, 1852; Elijah Clinton, born Dec. 1, 1831, married Caroline C. Donnelson June 9, 1859 ; Charles Standiford, born Nov. 21, 1833, married Sallie L. Gregory May 1, 1863 ; John Fletcher, born March 22, 1839, married Mary M. Monk April 22,1860; she died Feb. 15,1868; Caroline, born Dec. 18, 1844, married William H. James Jan. 17, 1871 ; Andrew Benjamin, born June 10, 1847, married Maggie B. (Pence) Beard Aug. 12, 1880. William Sanford, born Jan. 11, 1851, married Margaret C. Mitchell, Jan. 20, 1871. JOHN. A. BLACK, feed and saw mill. The subject of our present writing, is the youngest of a family of ten children of James (born Aug. 17, 1789, died May 9, 1853), and Catharine Black {born Nov. 20, 1790, and died Aug. 29, 1863)', who came from Virginia and located in this township in 1811, living with his brother two years, and then purchased the farm where our subject now resides, on which they remained until his death. May 9,1853. Mrs. Black survived him until Aug. 29, 1863. They were the parents of ten children, viz.: Mary, born Nov. 22, 1812; Matthew, Feb. 12, 1815 ; Susannah, Sept. 14, 1816 ; Catharine (deceased), born March 31, 1819 PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1015 Dorcas (deceased), born Feb. 4, 1822; Joseph, Dec. 21, 1823 ; Samuel, March 19, 1826 ; James, June 30, 1828; Julia A., Oct. 6,1831 ; John A., Sept. 7, 1834. John obtained the rudiments of his education in the district schools of the county, and remained with his parents during their life, and at their death he became owner of the home farm, on which he has resided until the present. On the 27th day of October, 1859; Miss Mary J. Hawout, daughter of Joseph and Lydia Hawout, united her destinies with our subject. She was born in Champaign Co., Ohio, March 4, 1839. Their children were, viz.: Lewis O., born Oct. 7, 1861; Herma O., April 20, 1873, and died March 20, 1875; Horace H., born May 30, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Black are members of the Presbyterian Church, and have the confidence and respect of all who know them as being good and efficient in the cause of Christianity. Mr. Black has by close attention to business and fair dealing with his fellow-men, accumulated a nice property and built a very desirable residence. Although Mr. Black has but a common school education, he ranks high among the business men of his township. For ten years in succession, Mr. Black has been honored by the citizens of his township with the office of Township Trustee, and the office of Justice of the Peace for the period of six years, the duties of which were discharged by him to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. W. S. BLACK, farmer; P. O. North Hampton; is the son of Andrew C. and Provy Black; the father was born in Montgomery County, Va., in 1802, and the mother in Kentucky in 1806; they were married in 1825 and were the parents of thirteen children-seven boys and six girls, of whom seven are now living. The subject of this sketch was the youngest, and lived with his parents until he was `31 years of age, assisting his father in the work of the farm until his marriage with Maggie C. Mitchell. He lived on a part of his father's farm for four years thereafter, during which time he built him a house on a part of his father's farm. In this he lived one year, during which time his father died. He then sold his interest in the home farm and purchased the beautiful place adjoining the old homestead, where he now lives. He was the father of two children, a son that died in infancy and a daughter, Leora E., born Jan. 5, 1874, who still lives. They are earnest members of the M. E. Church. LEWIS C. CARMIN, farmer. Benjamin Carmin, his grandfather, was a native of Maryland, and came to Ohio about 1812, and settled in this county and township. In 1827, he was summoned out of this world by the angel of death; his wife survived him several years. Lewis, the father of our subject, was born April 13, 1800, and was united in marriage with his wife, Mary, in 1825 ; she was born Oct. 2, 1807. They were the parents of fourteen children, of whom eleven are now living, viz.: Elizabeth, Benjamin B., James A., Zilph, William E., Rebecca, David S., Lewis C., Sarah J., Emily D., Abraham B. In 1825, Mr. Carmin purchased the farm, where he resided until his death which occurred in 1874. Mr. Carmin still resides on the farm with Lewis, the subject of this sketch, who has always lived with his parents with the exception of nine years. Emily, now Mrs. William Edmason, also lives with her mother. They were married May 23, 1875, and have had two children, viz., Asa A., born June 4, 1876, and Darrow C., born Jan. 5, 1881. MARY A. DAVIS, farmer; P. O. Dialton. Mrs. Davis is the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Littlejohn, natives of Berkeley County, Va. They were the parents of six children, viz. : Morris, Jonathan, Edward, Mary A., Margaret J. and Elizabeth. In 1824, Mrs. Littlejohn was left a widow. She managed to keep the family together, and emigrated to Ohio, and settled in Pike Township, Clark Co., Ohio, in 1834, where she died at the advanced age of 73 years. Mary, the subject of this memoir, was united in marriage with Joseph Davis, June 16, 1833. In the spring they came to Ohio and settled in Pike Township, where he resided until his decease, Oct. 6, 1863. By occupation be was a millwright, which he followed several years. In 1848, he purchased the farm where our subject now resides with her only son. Mr. and Mrs. Davis were the parents of eleven children, of whom five are now living, viz.: Phoebe J., Amanda, Mary V., Sarah E., and Josiah L., with whom Mrs. Davis now resides. On the 4th of September, 1873, Josiah celebrated his marriage with Sarah, daughter of Jacob and, 1016 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Matilda Shaffer, of Champaign Co., Ohio. This union was blessed with four daughters, viz. : Minnie B., born July 20,1874; Theressa A., born Aug. 14,1876; Margaret A., born April 12, 1878; Grace G., born Aug. 21, 1880. CHARLES C. FRIELDS, teacher. This gentlemen was born in Williamsport, Penn., March 4, 1828. His father, Charles, Sr., was a native of Belfast, Ireland, and emigrated to this country in 1820. He settled in Pennsylvania, and married Elizabeth Sceifers, a German lady, who died in Williamsport, Feb. 25, 1828, leaving; one child, our subject, then at the tender age of seven days. The father afterward moved to Perry Co., Ohio, with his infant son, and in two years was again married in Rahobeth, a small town, in which he died in 1835, leaving his boy of seven years an orphan among strangers. After the death of his father, our subject went to South Charleston, this county, where he entered the family of Mr. Wright, a brickmaker, in whose yard the youthful wanderer was put to work. He afterward lived two years in the family of Absalom Mattox, a merchant of the same town, but Mrs. Mattox's cruel treatment drove him from her hearth-stone, and he was compelled again to pursue his wanderings. In September, 1838, he became a member of the family of Benjamin Strong, a gentlemen who lived south of Jamestown, Greene Co. Here he received the treatment of an own child, until his benefactors were both called from their earthly home. By this calamity our subject was again left to his own resources. His checkered life had endowed him with a will uncommon in one so young, and with a determination to gain an. education, he commenced a life of the strictest industry and economy, working at day labor. He soon was enabled to obtain a common school education, and in the autumn of 1847, taught a four months' school at Cedarville. In 1848, he took a year's course in the High School at Springfield, and during the three following winters, taught in the Black Horse Schoolhouse, District No. 1, this township. He has ever made teaching his lifework. He was married to Mary Flick Oct. 12, 1851. Her parents, William and Mary Flick, were esteemed citizens of this township. In thirteen years after marriage, she died from that dread enemy of man, consumption. On Oct. 29, 1865, Mr. Frields was again married to Rebecca Ream, daughter of Andrew and Anna Ream, of this township. Her parents were highly respected people, and were among the first settlers of the county. Her mother's maiden name was Horner ; she was of German descent, born March 6, 1804, and died Nov. 12, 1868. Her father was of Dutch descent, born October 15, 1797, in Harrisburg, Penn.; came to Clark County with his parents when he was a boy. Our subject, by his last marriage, became the father of one child, Charley, born Feb. 1, 1872. J. C. FULLER, farmer and stock raiser; P. O. New Carlisle. JOHN GARST, farmer; P. O. New Carlisle. The subject of our sketch is one of the substantial and useful men in the community in which he resides; he was born in the State of Virginia March 18, 1802 ; be was the eldest of seven sons, and resided with his parents, who were tillers of the soil, until 21 years of age. On the 2d day of April, 1823, he started for this county, driving a four-horse team for Michael Frantz, of this township, being twenty-eight days on the road, and receiving for the journey $12, which amount, with 50 cents he possessed before starting, comprised his capital. Remaining here some three weeks, he returned to his native State on foot by way of Kentucky and Tennessee and through Cumberland, Maryland, a distance of over 600 miles, making; the trip in twenty-one days. Of the amount named but 25 cents was left on his arrival in Virginia. Mr. Garst united in marriage with Susan Zigler, a native of Botetourt Co., Va., Aug. 21, 1823. He then rented land and farmed until the year 1827, when he came to this county, buying and settling where he now resides. To this couple were born the following children: Sarah, Elizabeth, Henry, Catharine, John, George, Maria, Louisa, Emma and William. The mother died July 20, 1862. Mr. Garst was again married in 1865, this time to Rachel Miller, of Bethel Township, this county, who died June 25, 1870. She was a member of the Lutheran Church, having united therewith when quite young. Neither our subject nor his first wife were members of any church, yet they leaned toward the German Baptists. Both devoted a great deal of time to the sick and afflicted, and were highly PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1017 respected and universally beloved by all. Mr. G., while not having connected himself with any particular denomination, is a man always to be found on the side of right, ever in sympathy with all movements having for their object the elevation and bettering of mankind. He has ever been kind to the poor; is one of those big-hearted, kind and sympathetic natures who are always doing something for the afflicted and those in trouble. He has for many years lent great assistance in times of sickness and death, being a regular attendant at all funerals, and generally the one in charge. He is a business man in its fullest sense, and his opinions are always respected. He is one of the School Directors, which position he has held for fifteen years, and President of New Carlisle Cemetery, having held that office for the past eighteen years. He is also President of the New Carlisle & Mad River Turnpike. Mr. Garst is the son of Abraham and Catherine Ribble Garst, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Maryland, and both of German descent. JOSEPH GARST, farmer. Mr. G. was born in Clark Co., Ohio, Feb. 20, 1831. His ancestors were of Dutch descent. His father, Abraham, was born in Virginia in 1791, and his mother, Anna, near the same place in 1792. Her great-grandfather, Michael Frantz, was one of the first Bishops of the Dunkard Church in America. Our subject is politically a Republican, and religiously a Universalist. In August, 1864, he was married to Sarah, daughter of A. Q. and Rebecca Bennett. The latter's maiden name was Ward, and she is a first cousin of Henry Ward Beecher. Mr. Garst has had ° born to him two children-Iva, born Aug. 12, 1865, and Isabell, born Feb. 20, 1871. Mr. G. is a farmer and fruit-grower by occupation. In the latter branch he is an enthusiast, having presented over one hundred varieties of apples and pears, in addition to small fruits. He is also a breeder of Jersey cattle, and is now entering into the culture of bees. CARRIE M. HARSHBARGER, farmer; P. O. North Hampton. The subject of this sketch is the daughter of Morgan and Mary A. (Barclay) Smith, who emigrated from Greene Co., Penn., to Adams Co., Ind., in 1847. Carrie was born Dec. 13, 1840, and assisted her parents until 20 years of age, when she commenced teaching school, which she continued until she married Abraham Harshbarger, Oct. 5, 1865.. Abraham was the son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Click) Harshbarger, of this county. Abraham was the father of three sons-Frank B., born Oct. 3, 1866 ; William S., Oct. 26, 1868; Orville G., Dec. 17, 1871. After their marriage they moved to North Hampton and purchased a saw-mill, which he ran until 1872, and disposed of it, and purchased 100 acres of land; and turned his attention to the cultivation of the soil, which he continued at until 1873, when he was summoned out of this world by the messenger of death. Mr. Harshbarger was a gentleman who had been esteemed by his many friends. Mrs. Harshbarger, at the death of her husband, found the estate somewhat embarrassed, but, by her energetic nature and economy, she kept her little family together and paid off all obligations, and is endeavoring to give her three sons the advantages of a good education. She is a member of the Reformed Church and a teacher in the Sabbath school. Thus, while working and accumulating this world's goods, she is also in the higher and nobler work of life, trying to lay up treasures in heaven by training up those under her charge in the admonitions of the Lord. MRS. SARAH J. HARSHBARGER, North Hampton. The subject of this sketch is the daughter of George and Mary Stockmyer, who came to Ohio from Pennsylvania about 1812. In 1840, they resided in Allen Co., where Mrs. Harshbarger was born. When she was but 3 years of age her father died, and the following ten years of her life were passed with her sister; then she made her home with Jacob Flick, of this county, for a period of eight years, when she was united in marriage with Samuel Harshbarger, of North Hampton, where they now reside. Their children are Almeda, born Aug. 30, 1862 ; Olga M., Sept. 26, 1865 ; Alonzo U., Nov. 23, 1867 ; Musa, Oct. 17, 1874. The parents are members of the Reformed Church; are exemplary people, loved and respected by the community in which they move. They have adopted and raised several children. The political atmosphere of the household is Republican. 1018 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: WILLIAM JENKINS, farmer and Notary; P. O. Dialton. MELYNE LAYTON, farmer; P. O. Dialton. This venerable man was born in the vicinity of Enon, Mad River Township, Clark Co., Ohio, Aug. 8, 1806-a period when the beautiful farms and cultivated fields of to-day were the depths of the primeval forests. He passed his youth in the country, residing with his parents until the death of his father, Nov. 8, 1830. In the following March he was united in marriage with Harriet Broughton, and their union was blessed with the following children Adaline, Martha J., William D., Matilda C., Mary A., Susan E., Cordelia, Erastus and Thomas E. The former became Mrs. John Galligher, and died in February, 1878, leaving ten children. Mrs. Layton was summoned to her final home June 20, 1849. Our subject remained a widower until Nov. 12, 1850, when he married Mary Scorce, a native of Virginia, and unto them were born six children, namely: John S., Harriet C., Melyne H., Clarence B., Lillie E., one dying in infancy. Mr. Layton lived on the home farm until 1864, when he purchased land in Miami Co., where be resided until his removal to the farm on which he now lives, about twelve years ago, which in size is 180 acres. Although not a member of any church, Mr. Layton is an upright and moral man, possessing the esteem and respect of all who know him. His son, Erastus, served in the late war, 110th O. V. I, with honor to himself and country. The parents of our subject were John and Elizabeth (Baker) Layton, natives of Pennsylvania, and New Jersey respectively. The former came to this county with his parents in the year 1804, settling in Bethel Township. The Bakers settled here about the same time, and soon after their coming the couple were married. Father Layton was a man of considerable prominence; was appointed the first Clerk of the Court on the formation of the county; was one of the early Justices of the Peace, and later served as County Commissioner. JOHN A. MARQUART, farmer and dealer in fine horses; P. O. North Hampton. We are pleased to be able to place among the prominent men of this township the name of John A. Marquart, who has a well-merited reputation as a farmer and stock dealer among all who know him. He was born in Green Township, Clark County. Aug. 9, 1853. He is the son of John and Dorcas Marquart, natives of this county. The father was a farmer and stocker raiser, and lived until July 30, 1858, when he died, at the ripe old age of 60 years 3 months and 26 days. The wife died July 14, 1865, at the age of 43 years 5 months and 12 days. John, our subject was thus left an orphan at the age of 13 years, but his parents left ample means for the support of him self and his two sisters. He lived with his uncle, who was his guardian until he was 21 years of age. On the 23d of January, 1879, he married Miss Mary J. Rector of this township, who was born March 6, 1858. Immediately after the marriage, they moved to his farm of 144 acres in Section 20, where they now reside. Mr. M. devotes his whole attention to farming and raising fine stock. He spares neither time nor expense in procuring and breeding the finest obtainable stock, and his reputation as a breeder is daily spreading throughout the State. His farm is a model of neatness and convenience. It is well supplied with fruit of all kinds and is watered by unfailing springs. Every convenience that modern science has produced for the farmer will be found on his place. All who have any dealings with hime say he is the impersonation of hospitality and honest integrity. He is a highly esteemed member in good standing of Carles Lodge I. O. O. F. JOHN MERANDA, Notary Public and surveyor, North Hampton. ISAAC MILLER, farmer; P. O. Christiansburg, Champaign Co. Mr. Miller is the son of Augustus and Mary (Williamson) Miller, natives of Penn. The father came with his parents to this State in 1811 and settled in Sugar Creek Township, Greene County, where his father died. He had been three times married. His first wife, Mary Williamson, was married to him in 1818. She became the mother of two children - Isaac, our subject, born May 1, 1819, and Joseph, born November, 1821. After the death of his wife, in 1822, Mr. Miller moved to Montgomery County, where he married Jane L. White in 1826. She was possessed of a piece of wild land, where Mr. Miller built a cabin and lived until the death of this wife in 1854. By her he had seven children, only PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1019 one of whom, viz., Hannah J., born 1830, is now living. In eighteen months after the death of his second wife Mr. Miller married Mrs. Martha Irvin, with whom he liv ed until his death, Nov. 28, 1865. By her he had one child, not now living. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church. His son Isaac, our subject, lived with his father until he was 23 years old, when he moved to Jackson Township, Champaign Co., where he purchased eighty-four acres of land, on which he lived six years. During this time he was married to Anna, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Winters) Merritt, of Jackson Township. They had thirteen children, as follows: Elizabeth M., born Feb. 8, 1843 ; Augustus C., born July 28, 1844 ; George N., born July 18, 1846 ; Peter N, born Feb. 6, 1849; John L., born March 3, 1851; Mary A., born May 9, 1853 ; Hannah J., born April 11, 1855 ; Joseph W., born August 23, 1857 ; Rosa E., born Feb. 22, 1859; Susan A., born May 11, 1862; Carrie A., born July 20, 1864; Harry L., born March 23, 1866; Bertha E., born July 21, 1868. The father moved to the farm where be now lives in 1847. He is a member of Beech Grove Grange, No. 335, and of the German Reformed Church. He is one of the oldest residents of the county, and has always voted the Whig and Republican. His eldest son enlisted in 1863, in the 44th O. V. I. during the rebellion, and received an honorable discharge at the close of the war. A. W. MITCHELL, physician; Dialton; was born Dec. 13, 1848; is a son of George J. and Amanda F. Mitchell, and the youngest of a family of three children, consisting of two boys and one girl. Early in 1849, the family moved to the eastern part of Shelby County, where his father bought a farm and improved it. It was here that he endeavored to bring up his family in the fear of the Lord, and as the country was at that time a wilderness, he had many chances to teach them practically that " in the sweat of thy face thou shalt eat bread." The family was one of unusual personal affection and social enjoyment. In 1863, the wife and mother was taken away and the subject of this sketch soon after went off to school. From 1869 to 1872, he was principally occupied in teaching, and in 1871 commenced the study of law. However, be never felt that the profession was exactly congenial with his disposition, and was more than ever impressed with this fact one day when, after reciting his lesson in Blackstone, he directed his attention to some lawyers who were in the office consulting on the best plan to win a certain knotty case. He ventured a thought that the plan suggested would hardly be right, and was stunned by the reply, " Young man, if you ever expect to be a lawyer you must never harp on conscience." He soon gave up the study and in March, 1872, went West. For three years he observed the varied phenomena of the Kansas climate. He then went to Southwest Missouri where he spent three years more, principally in teaching in Joplin and vicinity. He was at one time engaged in mining at this place, and had charge of mines which bid fair to place him on the road to fortune, but his natural love for the schoolroom and the uncertainty of the mines induced him to relinquish them to take charge of the Third Ward schools. He here commenced the study of medicine in 1877 with Dr. H. B. Pinney, and in September, 1878, left for Ann Arbor, Mich., to attend lectures. He spent one year in this institution, and in October, 1879, matriculated with the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, from which he graduated the following year. Like all new-fledged doctors his next step was one of importance. Where shall I locate? agitated his mind for a few months, and he finally settled down in the quiet little village of Dialton in September, 1880. Though Dr. Mitchell, in his various ramblings, saw a good deal of the " rough-and-tumble " side of life, he never either forgot or ignored his early religious training, and invariably took an active part in Sabbath school and church work, and it would not be far from expressing his true sentiment on temperance if we would say he is a teetotaler. He commenced life in his new and chosen profession with bright prospects for the future. GEORGE G. MOCK, farmer; P. O. Dialton. Mr. Mock was born in this (Pike) township Sept. 2, 1843. He is the son of Esron and Catherine Mock. The father, Esron, is the son of Frederick and Barsheba Mock. He was a native of Pennsylvania, and she of Kentucky. He came to this township in an early day, and died' 1020 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: in 1832 at the age of 45 years. His wife survived him until 1866. They were both members of the M. E. Church. Esron married Catharine Oatewalt, daughter of George and Joanna Oatewalt. Aug. 8, 1839. She was born June 29, 1814. Her parents were natives of Montgomery Co., Va., who came to this State in 1828, stopping in Ross Co. two years, and then moving to this township. The father died Sept. 16, 1858, aged 67 years, and the mother, April 29, 1859, aged 86 years. Esron and Catharine were parents of four children-George G., Mary E. and Joanna B. now living. The mother and children are members of the M. E. Church. George G. was married Dec. 4, 1870, to Margaret J. Davis, daughter of Joseph and Mary A. Davis, by whom he had one child, Mary B., born Nov. 19, 1877. Mrs. Mock was born July 10, 1848, and died Sept. 3, 1876. She was a member of the Reformed Church. SAMUEL MOCK, deceased. Samuel Mock was born in the year 1820, and died in the year 1877. He was the son of Frederick and Barsheba (Priest) Mock, who were among the early settlers of the county, having purchased the farm owned by the deceased in about the year 1810. Frederick Mock was a very useful man in the neighborhood, being a mechanic. He made the first wagon used in the township; he also made the buhrs in all the first mills of the country. Samuel, the fifth child, married Mary A. Botkin, daughter of William and Elizabeth Botkin, who emigrated from Virginia in the year 1810. Samuel Mock was the father of six girls and two boys-Malissa (died Jan. 31, 1854, aged 6 years), Lucinda, Evalean, Ellen, John P., Julia A., George Me. (died Jan. 5, 1878, aged 17 years), and Vesper B. Having purchased the old homestead in the year 1848, on which he lived until his death. He was well known throughout the county. He was several times elected to positions of honor and trust, all of which he filled with integrity. He was kind to his family. Being a man of high moral character, strictly honest in all his dealings, he had the love and respect of all who knew him. WILLIAM MYERS, North Hampton; teacher and Township Clerk. MADISON OVER, North Hampton; hotel and Justice. VALENTINE PENCE, farmer and millwright; P. O. New Carlisle. This gentleman was born in Rockingham Co., Va, June 28, 1819. He is the son of George and Christina (Crowbarger) Pence. The father was a native of Virginia, where he died in 1825. The mother was a native of Pennsylvania. She moved to Clinton Co., Ind., in 1836, where she died two years later. Valentine went to Indiana with his mother, and stayed with her until the spring of 1838, when he came to Clark County and commenced laboring as a millwright with his brother and Samuel Sprinkle, and continuing in this business for twelve years. He was married Oct. 4, 1842, to Catharine F., daughter of George and Catharine (Fair) Stafford, who were both natives of Ireland. Mr. Pence bought his present farm in Section 26, of Samuel Arnold, Aug. 16, 1845, since which time he has devoted his attention principally to farming. By his marriage with Miss Stafford he became father of two children-Caroline Elizabeth, born May 28, 1844, and Margaret Almira, born May 4, 1847. Caroline was married Nov. 6, 1872, by Rev. J. G. Black, to Thomas Swanger. Margaret was married Dec. 13, 1867, by Rev. L. G. Edgar, to Antony Stafford. Mr. Pence and wife are both energetic members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which they have zealously labored for some time. Mr. P. was raised a Democrat, but has always voted the Whig and Republican ticket. He has served as Township Trustee for two terms with great credit to himself and constituents. JOHN RAY, retired farmer; P. O. Dialton ; was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Feb. 29, 1813. He is the son of Lewis and Elizabeth Ray (nee Zigler), who were natives of Virginia; and moved to Cincinnati in 1812, living there one year, when he moved to Clark County and located near Springfield, where they remained four years. In 1817, they purchased a tract of timber land near North Hampton, in Pike Township.. They were the parents of eight children, of whom six are now living. John, our subject, lived with his father until he was 24 years of age, and then was united in marriage with Margaret Overpeck, daughter of George and Martha Overpeck, who were PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1021 also natives of Virginia. After his marriage he purchased the farm where he now lives, which contained about 40 acres of cleared land and 70 acres under fence. Since that time he has worked at the carpenter's trade thirty years, and the balance of his time was spent in cultivating his farm. Mr. Ray has, by his exemplary habits and close attention to business, won the prominent position in society that he now occupies. Mr. and Mrs. Ray have both been faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for the past thirty-eight years. DANIEL REAM, North Hampton, farmer and Township Treasurer. RAPER RECTOR (deceased). Dr. Rector was born in Mad River Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, July 11, 1838. He resided upon the farm with his parents until he had attained his majority, where he acquired a good common school education. At the age of 22 years, he went to Tremont and read medicine with Dr. J. S. Gard, and graduated at Starling Medical College Feb. 28, 1865. Mr. Rector married early in life, having been united with Eliza J. Martin, daughter of Scott Martin, Esq., of Tremont, on the 27th of November, 1857, and to them were born three children, viz., Mary J., now Mrs. J. A. Marquart, born March 6, 1858; J. W., born Aug. 18, 1859, and A. W., born March 10, 1861. The Doctor located in North Hampton, in this county, where he enjoyed a lucrative and reputable practice up to the time of his death. He grew rapidly in the favor of the people, both as a man and a physician. During the latter part of September, 1872, Dr. R. was attacked with typhoid fever, which terminated fatally on the 16th day of the following month (October, 1872). In his last illness, the Doctor was attended by Dr. Thatcher, who had in the way of assistance the best learned of quite a number of the members of the Clark Co. Medical Society, of which our subject was a member. lie was a man of a high order of social qualities, a good intellect and excellent habits. He was temperate and industrious; his opinions in regard to medical theory and practice were very sound. Dr. Rector was a member of the M. E. Church, and was sustained and cheered in life and in death by the consolations of the Christian religion. His grandfather, Charles Rector, was one of the first white settlers in the Mad River Valley. His parents were Conway and Anna (Neff) Rector ; the former was a native of Kentucky, born Feb. 6, 1795; the latter of Shenandoah Co., Va., born Dec. 15, 1800. The father emigrated to this State in 1802, purchasing a full section of land in Mad River Township, where he settled and there lived until his death, Oct. 12, 1879. The mother still survives him, retaining her mental faculties in a remarkable degree. When quite young, Father Rector was instrumental in getting out the timber for the first M. E. Church in that vicinity, built of hewn logs, in Champaign Co., just over the Clark Co. line. It is still used as a place of worship. Mr. Rector joined the M. E. Church, Dec. 28, 1817, and became a Class-leader March 14. 1819. His wife is also a Methodist. JAMES W. RECTOR, blacksmith; P. O. North Hampton. JOSEPH L. RICHARDS, blacksmith; North Hampton. This gentleman was born in Washington Co., Penn., Oct. 28, 1818, and was the fifth son of eight sons and five daughters born to John and Sarah Richards. At the age of 2 years, the father came from Germany with his parents. The mother was of Scotch descent. In 1829, the family moved to Carroll Co., Ohio, and settled on a section of wild forest land, where the father died Sept. 26, 1832, from fever, brought on by the malaria of the new country. Shortly after this, Joseph returned to Pennsylvania, where he secured a position and served a full term at blacksmithing. On the 19th of April, 1838, he married Miss Anna Friend, and by her became the father of two children, a son and daughter Isaiah and Lavina. The latter, at the age of 21, married Frederick Smith ; six years afterward, she was, by accident, fatally burned, and after nine hours of intense suffering, died. The son is still living. Mrs. Richards, the wife, died June 29, 1876. Mr. , Richards remained single until Dec. 26, 1879, when he married Mrs. Eliza J. Rector, widow of Dr. Rector, with whom he now lives. GEORGE RINKER, farmer ; P. O. North Hampton. The subject of this sketch is the son of Benjamin and Susan Rinker, who were natives of Virginia, and came to Ohio in 1848, and settled in German Township, where they now reside. They were 1022 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: the parents of two sons and four daughters, three of whom are now living. George, our subject, was born in Virginia May 5, 1832; educational advantages limited. He was early trained to farm labor. On the 4th day of April, 1856; he was married to Miss Sarah Branner. Two sons and one daughter were born to them. William, born Aug. 26, 1863, is the only one now living. Soon after his marriage, he rented a farm in this township, which he remained on one year, and rented a farm owned by P. Mar quart, which he cultivated for a period of nine years. He purchased his present place in the year 1866, and has made many material improvements. Mr. and Mrs. Rinker are both worthy and consistent members of the Reformed Church. HENRY SHELL, farmer; P. O. Christianburg. The gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch is one of the old pioneers and stanch men that have made the Buckeye State what it is to-day. He was born in Montgomery Co., Va , Feb. 1, 1800 ; at the age of 11 years, he came to Ohio with his parents, and settled in Elizabeth Township,. Miami County. March 6, 1823, his marriage was solemnized with Mary Peilliman. They have had fourteen children, of whom five are now living, viz.: Eliza, Henry, Elizabeth, Francis M. and Louisa, who have always remained at home with their parents. Mr. Shell purchased the beautiful farm where he now resides in 1830, in an unimproved state, and the improvement that has since been added is the energy and indomitable will with which be is possessed. His good and industrious wife died Jan. 16, 1873, at the advanced age of 72 years. Her religious views were identified with the German Baptist Church. Mr. Shell, in politics, is a Democrat. He and his daughter, Louisa, are members of the Christian Church. HARRISON SHROYER; P. O. New Carlisle. The subject of our sketch was born in Bethel Township, Miami Co., Ohio, July 27, 1837. His youth and early manhood were passed on the farm with his parents; he received his education in the common district schools of the vicinity, and in the year 1864, Nov. 10, was united in marriage with Harriet A. Dille, who was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, April 7, 1843. This union was blessed with three children, namely: Emory B., born Jan. 9, 1870; Batie M., August 8, 1871 ; and Daisy B., Jan. 13, 1878. Mr. Shroyer, after his marriage, remained in Miami County one year, then came to his present place of residence. He possesses a good farm of 163 acres, upon which is a fine residence and good buildings. His parents were John Shroyer and Eliza Rall, the former a native of Maryland, Frederick County, and mother of Clark Co., Ohio. The father came to this State in 1823, stopping for a time in Montgomery County ; thence to Miami County, where he died Jan. 11, 1866, in the 56th year of his age. The mother died Jan. 3, 1880, in her 64th year. Our subject's wife's parents were Alexander and Elizabeth Dille, both natives of Montgomery Co., Ohio, born in 1816 and 1818 respectively ; both are yet living, being residents of Osborn, Ohio. SAMUEL SPRINKEL, farmer; P. 0. New Carlisle. The gentlemen of whom we now write was born Jan. 8, 1809, in Rockingham Co., Va. George and Catharine Sprinkel, his parents, were born in Pennsylvania, and came with their parents to Virginia, where they were married. Mrs. Sprinkel died in Virginia, but the exact date cannot be ascertained. Samuel removed with his father to Cass Co., Ind. His advantages for education were moderate ; he attended the common county school. He learned the trade of millwright under his father, and continued with him until he arrived at his maturity. In the year 1830, he came to Warren Co., Ohio, and followed his trade there one year, and went to Miami County, where he remained twelve months, and purchased 174 acres in this township. In 1852, he disposed of his farm, and bought 166 2/3 acres in Section 26, where he has since resided. Mr. Sprinkel has been twice married. His marriage with his first wife, Miss Anna Stafford, was celebrated Sept. 29, 1833. She was the daughter of Thomas and Catharine (Williams) Stafford, natives of Giles Co., Va., and came to Ohio about 1810. She was born May 5, 1808, and is the oldest child of the family. She encountered many hardships and privations. She built the first fence around her father's house, which house is built of logs, and now stands as a relic of the past. By this union they had five children-Susan C., born April 8, 1835 ; Catherine J., born June 4, 1839 ; George W., born June 25, 1842 ; and PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1023 two deceased. Mrs. Stofford died Feb. 2, 1870. On Nov. 14,1872, he married Leoniza E., daughter of John and Barbara Thomas, natives of Virginia, and came to Champaign Co., Ohio, in 1823. MARY SPENCE, farmer; P. O. North Hampton; was born in German Township, Fayette Co., Penn., Oct. 18, 1826, and came West to Clark County in 1837. At the age of 24 years she united her destinies with Mark Spence (deceased), who was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the 10th of September, 1820. On the 25th of December of the same year, he moved with his parents upon the farm his wife now,occupies. Their union was blessed by the birth of a son, on Jan. 30, 1852. He resides at present with his mother, and is indeed all she desires. Politically, Mr. Spence was a stanch Whig; his first vote was cast for Henry Clay. The Whig party having been disrupted and the Republican party organized, Mr. Spence joined the latter party, and has ever since given it a hearty support. He was not a church member, yet he contributed liberally to the maintenance of religious interests. He believed that the interests of society and government are linked with the success of the common schools, and used his influence in their encouragement and support. Appreciating the value of good roads, Mr. Spence urged their construction, and liberally lent his time and gave his money to that end. As evidence, from a total cost of a single turnpike, of $7,500, his contribution amounted to about $1,200. Jan. 8, 1878, Mark Spence departed from this life, leaving an only child to care for the bereaved widow. He was married on the 12th of February, 1880, to Miss Anna Friermood. They have one child, born Jan. 15, 1881. JOHN SPENCE, farmer; P. O. North Hampton. This gentleman is the fifth son of William and Elizabeth, both of whom were born in England and came to this country in 1818, settling on a piece of land adjoining the farm now occupied by our subject, who was born March 21, 1824. He lived with his father and assisted in the work of the farm until he arrived at his majority, when he left the home farm and commenced working at the cooper trade. In this he continued seven years, after which he entered the mercantile business, in which he continued two years, when he exchanged his store for Western land. He married Louisa Bailey, daughter of Charles and Martha Bailey, July 3, 1853, and moved onto the farm where he now lives. He has had born to him four children, viz.: Mary Ann, born April 13, 1854; Elizabeth, born Nov. 3, 1856, died March 6, 1858 ;Marcellus, born Jan. 19, 1860; Warren, born Dec. 14, 1864. Mrs. Spence died Dec. 8, 1865, and the eldest daughter (Mary Ann) died Aug. 9, 1869. Mr. Spence was again married Aug. 25, 1867, to Henrietta Crawfis, by whom he had three children, as follows: Arminta, born Aug. 18, 1868; Arwilda, born Feb. 22, 1870; Carrie M., born Oct. 18, 1872. Mrs. Spence, the second wife, died Aug. 26, 1880. Little Arminta has had one of her limbs broken eleven times by falls, etc., and is now crippled for life. In May, 1880, she had the other limb broken while trying to preserve the crippled one from injury. PETER SMITH, farmer; P. O. New Carlisle. This gentleman was born in the county of Botetourt, Va., Dec. 14, 1811. At the age of 2 years he came to Ohio with his parents, Christian and Christianna Smith, and settled near Chillicothe. They remained one year in their new home, and came to this (Pike) township, and located near New Carlisle. In the year 1821, Christian purchased the farm where he resided until his death, which occurred in Nov. 27, 1855. His educational advantages were limited; he was early trained to farm labor. In his 25th year, he rented the farm now owned by Samuel Harshberger for one year and then purchased 80 acres of timber land, which he cleared and put under cultivation. He soon added 80 acres to his original purchase, making in all 160. In the spring of 1873, he disposed of the place and purchased the farm he now occupies. December 5, 1836, he was united in marriage with Jane, daughter of Jesse and Sarah Mixon. She was born Dec. 26, 1813. They were the parents of eleven children, viz. : Christian M., born Sept, 14, 1837; Perlena and Elsina (twins), Sept. 12, 1839; Christianna, May 22, 1842; Sarah, Feb. 8, 1844; Lydia, Feb. 28, 1846; Ruth, Aug. 3, 1848; Jesse M., April 8, 1850; 1024 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Charles, Aug. 4, 1852; Peter M., Sept. 25, 1854; Mark, June 3, 1858. Perlina died Jan: 25, 1855; Ruth, died Jan. 21, 1849. Mr. and Mrs. Smith, with four children, are members of the German Baptist Church, and one daughter a member of the Baptist Church. JOHN J. STAFFORD, farmer; P. O. New Carlisle; is the son of Thomas and Catharine (Williams) Stafford. Thomas was a native of Ireland, and his wife a native of Virginia. They came to Clark Co., Ohio, and purchased 160 acres of land in Pike Township. John J., the subject of this biography, was born Jan. 8, 1821, and lived with his father during his (John J.'s) minority, and at the age of 21 years, he commenced life for himself by renting land of his father, which he cultivated until his marriage was celebrated with Catharine, daughter of John and Elizabeth Stafford, Oct. 3, 1854. They were the parents of three sons and three daughters, viz. : William F., born July 3, 1855 ; Clara, born March 19, 1858; Theodore E., born March 28, 1861; Edith F., born Dec. 19, 1869; Marcellus E., born Nov. 22, 1859, died Dec. 8, 1859 ; Ids E., born Oct. 19, 1865, died Oct. 30, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Stafford are consistant members of the M. E. Church. DANIEL R. TAYLOR, minister; North Hampton; was born in Prince William Co., Va., near Hay Market, Dec. 31, 1835. A few montbs after his birth, his father came to Muskingum Co., Ohio, and after securing a location and employment, sent for his wife, Mary E., and infant son, Daniel. About eight months after the family had been gathered together in their new home, a cloud of sadness came over the family circle, occasioned by the sudden death of the husband and father, by accident. The mother, thus suddenly made a widow and her child fatherless, commenced the struggles of life with no means of assistance save womanly courage and strength of willing hands. For eight long and wearisome years she labored, with her son, D. R., ever by her side, to keep the "wolf from the door," when she was again united in marriage with David Southwick, and soon after settled in Alexander, Licking Co., Ohio. At about the age of 12 years, D. R. united with the M. E. Church, under the preachings of the revivalist, S. A. Shaffer. In the month of September, 1848, Daniel R. left home to try the struggles of life alone, first entering the cooper-shop, to learn the use of tools and a trade. He worked at this business at different places, until Jan. 4, 1854, when he married Harriet A. Mercer, the second daughter of Dr. N. Z. Mercer, then of Licking Co., Ohio. He then located in Urbana, Champaign Co., Ohio; remained about two years, when he moved to St. Paris, of the same county, living there some nineteen years, during; which time, owing to force of circumstances, he learned the trade of harness and carriage trimming, and the art of photographing. When the war broke out, the first call for three years' volunteers, he enlisted in the 44th O. V. I. at Springfield, Clark Co. Re-enlisted in the 113th 0. V. I., and remained until the close of the war. On returning home, he was elected Mayor of St. Paris, and served in that office some six years. In the year 1874, he entered the ministry in the Reformed Church, and in 1875 was licensed to preach, and ordained by the Miami Classis of the Ohio Synod. He labored in the Bradford charge for three years, and then removed to his present place of residence. He is the father of four children, viz., Harry N., Lena L., Allan L. and Ellie ; all of whom are living, death having never entered their home. During his labors in the ministry, he has delivered, up to the present date, 1,250 sermons, fifty-seven funerals, held forty-five communions, baptized forty-two infants and 150 adults, and received 335 into the church, and married twenty-five couples. WILLIAM THACKREY, farmer; P. O. Dialton. This gentleman was born in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Jan. 30, 1852. He is the fifth son of Duncan and Susan Thackrey. His father was born in Yorkshire, England, Dec. 10, 1813, and emigrated to America with his parents in 1829, and worked with them on the farm in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., until he was 25 years of age, having in the mean time married Susan Ray, who was born in Clark Co., Ohio, Jan. 6, 1820. Our subject's youthful days were spent on his father's farm in Champaign Co. On Jan. 27, 1876, he married Lucretia C. Shaffer, of Mad River Township, Champaign Co., a PIKE TOWNSHIP. - 1025 daughter of Reuben and Sarah A. Shaffer, who were natives of Virginia, and came to this State when small children. By his union with Miss Shaffer, Mr. Thackrey became the father of two children, viz., Edward, born June 24, 1876, and Emmet, born April 3, 1878. Mr. T. and wife are pleasant people, and have the confidence of all who know them. THOMAS P. THOMAS, farmer; P. O. Dialton ; was born in Bucks County Penn., Feb. 19, 1807. He is the son of William and Susan (Hanway) Thomas, he a native of Pennsylvania and she of Delaware, and of Welsh extraction. Thomas emigrated to this county in 1827 and located in German Township, and took for wife Phoebe Kizer, May 20, 1830. In 1835, he moved to Pike Township and purchased the farm where he now resides. Mr. Thomas is the father of six children, of whom three sons and two daughters are now living. Mrs. Thomas was summoned from earth to heaven Feb 3, 1872, at the advanced age of 64 years 8 months and 14 days. In 1873, Mr. Thomas married his second wife, Anna D. Pence. Mr. Thomas has at present 100 acres of land under a good state of cultivation and a nice, commodious farm-house and many material improvements to correspond, and has won a large circle of friends. WILLIAM WINTERS, P. O. Dialton ; was born March 10, 1813, in Elizabeth Township, Miami County, Ohio; his father, Lewis Winters, was born in the State of New York in the year 1768, two of his brothers having served in the Revolutionary war, one of whom, John Winters, being captured by the British, suffered the rigors of confinement in prison ship. Anna Prilleman, his mother, born in the year 1777, in Virginia, of which issue were twelve children-Jacob, Elizabeth, Obdiah, Margaret, John, James, Daniel, William, Susan, Sarah, Mary and Thomas. The latter was united in marriage to Nancy A. Fuller Feb. 28, 1837, her father, Robert Fuller, born in Virginia in the year 1785, having early removed from that State and located in Pike Township, where he entered quarter section land. Her mother, Margaret Thompson, born in Virginia in the year 1794; there were thirteen children born to them: Andrew, William, Nancy, Cynthia, James, George, Mary, Robert, Northrop, Archibald, Minerva, Irvin and Wesley. William Winters, the subject of this biography, bought one hundred acres of land in Sec. 22, Pike Township, in the year 1838, which has continued to be his home. He has added thereto until he now owns upward of three hundred acres. He has always been a consistent, upright man, attending strictly to his own business and letting other people's alone. He united with the M. E. Church at Beech Grove in 1840 ; his wife having in the year 1835 joined the same church at McKendree. Their issue was one child, Cynthia Ellen, born Aug. 9, 1842, who was married on the 8th day of March, 1863, to W. H. Sterrett, a resident of same township. A. S. ZINN, farmer; P. O. Dialton. This gentleman is the son of D. R. and Matilda (Sturgeon) Zinn, who are mentioned in P. S. Zinn's biography. Our subject was born Jan. 28, 1845, and acquired a practical knowledge. His time was chiefly devoted to his father's assistance until Oct. 26, 1866, at which time he took for wife Mary V., daughter of Joseph and Mary A. (Littlejohn) Davis, natives of Virginia. Mr. Zinn has always remained on the homestead which he became owner of at the death of his parents. As an evidence of the popularity with which he was held in his school district, he was elected one of the Directors, and by them to the position of Clerk, and is also Secretary of the Beach Grove Grange, of which society be is a member. Mr. and Mrs. Zinn are both members of the Reformed Church, and he is a warm sup porter of the Sunday schools, and is now a teacher. Mr. Zinn is the father of eight children, of whom seven are now living, viz. : Joseph W., born Sept. 25, 1867; Theodore D., April 1, 1869; Daniel F., Sept. 9, 1870; Rosella, Jan. 28, 1872; Mary M., Aug. 28, 1873, and died Sept. 13, 1873; Ida V., Aug. 25, 1874; Jesse O., Dec. 13, 1876; Lillie M., Aug. 25, 1879. PETER S. ZINN, quarryman; P. O. New Carlisle. The gentleman whose name graces the head of this sketch is the son of D. R. Zinn, who was a native of Pennsylvania and came to this county about 1836. In the year, 1840, he purchased 80 acres of land in this township, which he occupied until the year 1865. At this date, he disposed of his farm and purchased 52 acres near North Hampton, where be 1026 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: remained until his decease, which occurred Jan. 12, 1870. Peter, the subject of this biography, was born in Pike Township Sept. 25, 1841. His education was obtained in the district schools of the county. At the age of 21 years, he commenced life for himself by renting land of his father and giving agricultural pursuits all his time and attention. Success crowning his labors, he purchased a farm of 47 acres, in 1876, and disposed of it in 1878 and purchased the farm he now occupies. March 16, 1865, he and Miss Elzina, daughter of Peter and Jane Smith, celebrated their marriage. Four sons and four daughters were the result of this union, viz.: Matilda J., born Feb. 6, 1866; Willard A., born March 11, 1868; Ettie C., born Dec. 10, 1869; Sarah E., born Jan. 29, 1872 ; Goldwaithe, born Feb. 26, 1874; Lydia F., born Sept. 28, 1876; Warren, born March 4, 1878; Everett E., born Oct. 2, 1880. Mr. Zinn has never been an aspirant for office, but has been honored with the office of Township Trustee; is also a worthy and consistent member of the German Baptist Church, and is held in high esteem by all who know him. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) |