650 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. for a time. For two years thereafter he was not actively connected with business interests. In February, 1899, however, he purchased an interest in the coal business which is now conducted by the firm of Wright & Carruthers, becoming the successor of J. B. Carruthers, who met his death in a railroad accident. They deal in both anthracite and bituminous coal and do a wholesale and retail business, their patronage now being quite extensive. In 1895 Mr. Wright was elected a director in the Xenia National Bank and has since been thus financially connected with the institution. In his political affiliations he is a Republican. A genial, courteous gentleman and a pleasant, entertaining companion, he has many stanch and admiring friends among all classes of men. As an energetic and upright business man and a gentleman of attractive social qualities he stands high in the estimation of the entire community. SIMON BLACK. Simon Black, a representative citizen and prominent farmer of Beavercreek township, has spent his entire life in Greene county, Ohio, his birth having occurred in Bath township in 1831. His father, Robert Black, was born in western Pennsylvania and was a son of Mathew Black, who brought his family to this state at an early day, and settled in Beavercreek township, Greene county. Robert Black received but a very limited education, pursuing his studies first in a log school house in Pennsylvania and later in Beavercreek township, this county, after the removal of the family to Ohio. At an early age he started out in life for himself, and engaged in farming about one mile below the place where his son now lives. After living there a number of years, he removed to Beavercreek township. He wedded Mary Koogler, a native of that township, and to them were born nine children, three sons and six daughters, namely: Sarah, a resident of Covington, Ohio; Simon, of this review; Jonathan, whose home is in Ludlow; Rebecca, a resident of Beavercreek township; Mary, deceased; Jacob, a resident of Illinois; Annie Maria, of Missouri; Catherine, of Dayton, Ohio; and Eliza Jane, wife of Morris Carter, of Dayton. The father was a self-made man, whose success in life was due entirely to his own well-directed and energetic efforts, for he was entirely without capital on beginning his business career. He cleared about one hundred and sixty acres of land, and at his death owned a well improved and valuable farm. of two hundred acres. Simon Black was educated in an old log school house situated about a mile and a half from his boyhood home, school being conducted on the subscription plan. He early acquired an excellent knowledge of agricultural pursuits, and at the age of twenty years entered into partnership with his father in his farming operations, re-paining under the parental roof until his marriage. He then moved one mile north of the old homestead and rented a farm of one hundred and fifty acres, which he subsequently purchased, and later he purchased another farm of about one hundred acres in the same vicinity. Upon his place he raises principally corn and wheat, but also gives some attention to the raising of cattle and hogs. Mr. Black was married in 1857 to Miss Sophia Garlaugh, who was born in Beaver- ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 653 creek township, this county, and they have become the parents of three children, two sons and one daughter, namely: Robert H., Simon D. and Elizabeth, all at home. In 1886 Simon D. married Miss Sarah L. Reese, of Beavercreek township, and they have one child, Dorothy, who is now fourteen years of age and is attending the high school of Fairfield. The sons always assisted their father in the operation of the home farm, and they are now engaged in farming in partnership. By his ballot Mr. Black usually supports the men and measures of the Republican party, but at local elections when no issue is involved he votes for the men whom he believes best qualified for office regardless of party lines. He has never been prevailed upon to accept political positions of any kind as he prefers to give his undivided attention to his business interests. He and his wife are active and consistent members of the Reformed church, and are held in the highest regard by all who know them. JAMES S. McCLURE. James S. McClure, who follows farming in Sugarcreek township, near Bellbrook, was horn about a mile south of his present home, his birth occurring on the 8th of January, 1846. He is a son of Cyrus and Mary Jane (Dinwiddie) McClure. His paternal grandfather, Andrew McClure, came to Ohio at an early period in its development, and for a time resided east of the Miami river, but later removed to a farm west of the river, taking up his abode upon the place which is now the home of our subject. There the grandfather spent his remaining days, and the property remained in the family until 1897. Andrew McClure was a native of Virginia, born on the 3d of March, 1773, near the town of Charleston. He wedded Mary Steele, who was born January 24, 1779, and died on the 5th of November, 1862. Cyrus McClure, the father of our subject, was born September 1, 1811, and throughout his entire life carried on agricultural pursuits, but died in early manhood, leaving but one child, the subject of this review, who was then about two years old. The mother afterward married again, when James S. McClure was about fifteen years of age. She had removed to Bellbrook soon after the death of her first husband, and thus James S. McClure remained a resident of that city during much of his youth. His maternal grandfather, John R. Dinwiddie, was a wagonmaker and when our subject was not engaged with the duties of the, schoolroom he was employed at painting wagons in his grandfather's shop. When fifteen years of age he determined to secure a position, and after working one season; went to the old home farm, where he began farming on shares, being thus employed for many years after his marriage or until 1890. It was in Warren county, Ohio, in 1867,. that Mr. McClure was joined in wedlock to Miss Josephine Murphy and unto them has: been born one child, Walter, whose birth occurred on the old homestead farm December 16, 1868. He married Miss Mary Scott on the 18th of October, 1892, and is en, gaged in the undertaking business in Waynesville, Ohio. He has two children,. James E. and Carl Scott. In 1869 the subject of this review was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 24th of September of that year. His second mar- 654 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. riage took place in Warren county, Ohio, May 24, 1871, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary Chenoweth, who was born 'in that county August II, 1852, a daughter of George and Letitia (Cox) Chenoweth. The. children of the second marriage are: Ida May, who was born November 16, 1872, and became the wife of Perry M. Kelsey, April 27, 1896; Samuel C., who was born March 22, 1875, and was married November 25, 1897, to L.. Bertha Hatfield; and Mary J., who was born February 18, 1878, and is at borne. Mr. McClure followed in his father's political footsteps, becoming a stanch Republican. He has served altogether for eleven years as a trustee of Sugarcreek township, has taken an active and influential part in political affairs and has served as a delegate to many conventions. He and his wife hold membership in the United Presbyterian church, and he contributed largely to the erection of the house of worship. His support is never withheld from any movement which he believes will advance the material, intellectual or moral upbuilding of the community. JOHN LUTZ. Earnest and indefatigable labor has been the secret of the success which John Lutz has attained. For more than forty years he has been successfully engaged in blacksmithing and wagonmaking and is thus a well known factor in industrial circles of Xenia. He is among the valuable citizens that Maryland has furnished to the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred near Clear Spring on the 5th of January, 1829 The family is of German lineage and the great-grandfather of our subject came from Germany to the new world. The grandfather, Nicholas Lutz, spent his last years in Pennsylvania. Henry Lutz, the father of our subject, was born near Millersburg, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, .in 1802. He married Frances Moudy, who was a native of Williamsport, Maryland, and unto them were born two sons and three daughters, but only two of the number reached mature years, John and Mary, the latter becoming the wife of B. Y. Berry, then a resident of Xenia. In 1859 the father removed with his family to Indiana and settled on a farm near Fort Wayne, but after residing there for ten years returned to Xenia, where he departed this life in 1877, his wife passing away about eight years later. John Lutz spent the first twenty-four years of his life under the parental roof. His educational privileges were somewhat meager but he was well trained in lessons of industry and frugality, which proved the foundation of his prosperity in later years. When still a young man he began learning the blacksmith's trade, becoming quite expert in the use of the tools of the smithy. In November, 1853, he arrived in Ohio, locating in Xenia and for fourteen months lie was in the employ of James White. He then returned to Maryland for his bride, for ere leaving his native land he had become betrothed to Savilla Wolford. The marriage was celebrated at her home in Maryland in March, 1855, and they began their domestic life in Xenia, where they have remained continuously since. His father accompanied him on his return to this place and together they established a business on Church street where for four years they engaged in blacksmithing. In the spring of 1859 our sub- ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 655 ject purchased the wagon works of one of the early settlers and with the exception of the first year he has conducted the business alone, covering a period of more than forty years. In his work he has ever been thorough and reliable, and his straightforward dealings and capability have secured to him creditable success. In the early part of 1864 Mr. Lutz responded to the country's call for aid and became a Union soldier,, joining Company E, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. With his regiment he went to New Creek, Virginia, and he participated in the battle at that place. He took part in no other engagements but experienced many 'of the hardships and privations incident to a soldier's life. After four months service he received an honorable discharge at Camp Dennison, Ohio, in October, 1864, and then resumed the pursuits of civil life. He has since been engaged in blacksmithing and wagonmaking in Xenia and as the years have passed he has added to his capital until he is now the possessor of a handsome corn-pence. For a number of years one of his sons has been associated with him in the conduct of the business. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Lutz has been blessed with six children of whom the following are living : Jacob H. ; John E. ; Laura B., now the wife of John F. Sanders ; Cora E., and Ida S., the wife of George Sinz. Mr. Lutz and his family are members of the Reformed church and fraternally he is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a member of Lewis Post, No. 347, G. A. R., while in his political views he is a Republican. His life has been quietly passed, not marked by any event of special importance, yet his history is that of one who has ever been true and loyal to public and private duty. He is known as an honorable man, a pleasant, sociable companion and a fond husband and father. JOSHUA BARNETT. In public office as well as in private life Joshua Barnett has shown himself a worthy and loyal citizen, devoted to the best interests of the community. Throughout his business career he has carried on farming and has ever been upright and reliable in his dealings with his fellowmen. Among Greene county's native sons he is numbered, his birth having occurred in the northeastern part of Spring Valley township, October 13, 1852, his parents being John and Amelia (Moody) Barnett, both of whom were natives of Maryland. Soon after their marriage they emigrated to Ohio, settling on a farm in Spring Valley township, Greene county. The father had acquired a good education in his youth and had engaged in teaching before he came to Ohio. Here he owned a farm of one hundred and fifty acres and his labors transformed it into a valuable tract, which annually returned to him a good income. Unto him and his wife were born nine children, eight of whom reached mature years, while five are still living, namely : Oliver, a resident of Xenia township; Edward, who lives on the lower Bellbrook road in Xenia township; James, whose farm borders the upper Bellbrook road, in Sugarcreek township; Virginia, the wife of George Nisonger, of Beavercreek township ; and Joshua. The father was an adherent of Republican principles and was a 656 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. member of the Methodist Episcopal church, No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Joshua Barnett in his youth. Amid work and play and the duties of the school room the years passed and at the age of twenty-three he entered upon an independent business career. When about twenty-five years of age he made his first purchase of land, comprising forty-five acres in Spring Valley township. He put some improvements upon that farm and made it his home for about four years, after which he sold it and purchased his present farm of seventy-five acres. This is a rich and arable tract of land and annually he garners good harvests. He has splendid improvements upon his place, including an .attractive home two stories in height and containing eight rooms. It is tastefully furnished and is celebrated for its warm hearted hospitality. There is a good bank barn and other necessary improvements, and the farm is a monument to the enterprise, capable management and business ability of the owner. He has gained the property through his own well directed efforts. On the l0th of January, 1877, occurred the marriage of Mr. Barnett and Miss Caroline Simison, of Spring Valley township, a daughter of Milo and Mary (Kelly) Simison.. Their home has been blessed with four children : Samuel D., born October 29, 1877; Ohmer J., born February 29, 1880; Ethel ; born September 19, 1882; and George C., born December 2, 1888. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, being connected with Gladys chapel and Mr. Barnett has served as superintendent of the Sunday-school for several years. He is now a trustee of the church, does all in his power to extend its influence, and con tributes liberally to its support. In 1876 he proudly cast his first presidential vote, supporting Hayes, and has since been a stanch Republican. In 1902 he was the candidate for county commissioner. He has served as a member of the state board of equalization for the counties of Greene, Clinton, Ross, Fayette and Highland, and succeeded in securing a reduction on the assessment for all these counties—over one million dollars for Greene county alone. He is public spirited and progressive and heartily co-operates with every movement and measure calculated to prove of general good. His worth is widely acknowledged and the circle of his friends is only limited by the circle of his acquaintances. JAMES WALLACE POLLOCK. One of the finest farms in Greene 'county is that owned and Occupied by James W. Pollock. It is well located on the Xenia pike, a mile and a half from Cedarville, in Cedarville township, and it comprises three hundred and sixty acres. One hundred acres of this adjoins the birthplace of Whitelaw Reid, the New York journalist. The Pollock family is of Scotch-Irish line age, and the first representative of this branch of the family in America was William Pollock, the grandfather of our subject, who came from Scotland and located in Washington county, Pennsylvania, where he spent his remaining days. In that county John Pollock was born and grew to manhood. In Westmoreland county of the same state lived Abraham and Jane ( Johnson) Elder, who were also of Scotch-Irish descent, and unto them was born a daughter, ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 657 Jane. The Elders removed to Logan county, Ohio, about 1820 and there Mr. Elder became a man of note, his ability making him a leader in public affairs. He was elected one of the first judges of the county and filled that position for many years. John Pollock also left the Keystone state and became a resident of Logan county. There he formed the acquaintance of Jane Elder and in 1834 they were married: They located upon a tract of land near Huntsville and there they reared their family of eight children, the subject of this review being the third in order of birth. It was upon the 12th of January, 1840, that James Wallace Pollock first opened his eyes to the light of day. At the usual age he entered the district schools, and after studying there for some time he pursued a course in a select school near his home. Remaining with his parents until after the breaking out of the Civil war he joined the Union army on the 23d of June, 1862, at Huntsville and was assigned to Company D, Forty-fifth Ohio Infantry, which was attached to the Army of the Cumberland. He took part in some of the principal engagements against Morgan, that at Somerset being the most important. At Philadelphia,- Tennessee, on the l0th of October, 1863, he was taken prisoner and was sent to Atlanta and thence to Libby prison. Not long afterward he was transferred to Belle Isle, where he was held for four months, and later he was conveyed to Pemberton and then to Andersonville, where he spent six months during the worst period in all the horrors of that loathsome prison den. During his confinement Mr. Pollock had charge of a mess of one hundred men, for whom he drew the stuff they called rations. The commissary sergeant of a small party of colored troops was brutally shot by the guard and the rebels would not issue rations directly to the negroes, so it became necessary for white men to draw their supplies. The position was not a pleasant one to fill and few cared to undertake it, but Mr. Pollock volunteered to take charge of the negroes and did so until his removal from the place. At one time the raiders became so numerous and so bold in their depredations, —even at times murdering the defenseless prisoners,—that a committee was formed to remedy the evil. Mr. Pollock was one of the committeemen and aided in bringing the miscreants to justice six of them being hung. When captured our subject weighed one hundred and seventy-five pounds, but under the horrors of prison life his weight was reduced to eighty-three pounds. From Andersonville he was sent to Charleston, where a party of prisoners were kept under guard for six weeks until the stockade at Florence was completed and they were sent there. On the way Mr. Pollock and a comrade, Charles Hoffman, of Buffalo, New York, made an attempt to escape, jumping from the car while it was in motion. A few shots were fired at them, but they managed, to get away in the darkness, traveling all night. The next day, however, they were run down by bloodhounds and taken to Florence, reaching there only thirty-six hours after the others. Mr, Pollock still bears on his leg the scars left by the bites of the hounds. After he had spent ten weeks at Florence the prisoners were exchanged in Charleston harbor in 1864 and were then sent home on furlough. Mr. Pollock rejoined his regiment on the 5th of April, 1865, and was mustered out with his command at Camp Parker, near Nashville, on the 19th of June following. 658 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. Returning to Logan county he entered Duff's Commercial College, from which he was graduated the following year. He then turned his attention to the drug business, in which he was engaged for several years, during two years of this time carrying on a store at Cedarville, while for a considerable time he was in Xenia. In 1871 he removed to his present farm and has since carried on farming and stock-raising, always having thoroughbred cattle at the head of his herd. For the past ten years he has made a specialty of polled Durham, which popular variety he introduced, being the first man to own one in the county. For many years he had a thoroughbred Devon herd which he exhibited at different state fairs in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, and the St. Louis exposition, taking many prizes for the herd. He not only met with success but did much to better the grade of stock in the county. At present he has about fifty head of polled Durhams, known as the Hill View herd, and considered one of the finest of this section of the state. For many years his place was known as the Ander-son stock farm, but Mr. Pollock has changed the name to the Hill View stock farm. He is one of the most progressive, enterprising and prosperous stock raisers of the locality and a man of excellent business ability. During his residence in Cedarville Mr. Pollock was united in marriage to Miss Nettie, a daughter of Samuel and Jane (Townsley) Anderson, of that place, the wedding being celebrated November 4, 1869. Her father was born on the farm where Mr. Pollock is now living, and it remained in his possession for fifty-six years, but in August, 1869, he was called to his final rest. He was a son of William Anderson, who came to Greene county from Kentucky at a very early day and settled upon the tract of land which now constitutes the Hill View stock farm. Samuel Anderson was born in 1818 and throughout his life was an active and enterprising agriculturist. His widow is still living at the age of seventy-seven years, making her home with Mr. and Mrs.. Pollock. Unto our subject and his wife have been born three children. Edith is now the wife of Rev. Pressley Thompson, of Washington, Pennsylvania, a minister of the United Presbyterian church, and they have four children : Wilbur Pollock, Margaret, Pressley, Jr., and Donald Bruce. Jennie is the wife of Leonard Aitken, who is engaged in general mining at Colorado Springs, Colorado, and they have one child, Regina. Junia, the youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. Pollock, is still at home. In his political views Mr. Pollock is a stalwart Republican, never wavering in his. allegiance to the party. He has been a most active factor in promoting agricultural interests this portion of the state, and in addition to his being a member of the board of agriculture be is one of the charter members of the American Devon Cattle Club and one of the founders of the Ohio Spanish Merino Sheep Breeders' Association, and was a member of the state board of agriculture from 1890 until 1894. He was serving as its president at the time he retired from the office. His political service covers six years spent as county commissioner of Greene. county, from 1890 until 1896. He filled the office for two terms by election and for one term by appointment. Mr. Pollock has always taken an active interest in educational affairs and served for fifteen years as a member of the Xenia township board of education, and ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 659 has always stood for progressive ideas. He gave all his daughters collegiate educations at Monmouth, Illinois. He was a member of the county agricultural board for twenty consecutive years, serving two years as its president, and did much to build up the fir. He and his wife are devoted and loyal members of the United Presbyterian church and for many years he has served as one of its elders. A man of broad views and liberal policy, yet strong in his good name as well as in his business ability, James W. Pollock well deserves mention among the prominent residents of Greene county. ROBERT GRIEVE. Robert Grieve is a retired farmer who makes his home in Xenia. His birth occurred on the old family homestead within two miles of the city, July 27, 1831. He comes of a family of agriculturists that through different generations has been connected with the tilling of the soil. The family is of Scotch: lineage, the father, Archibald Grieve, having been a farmer of county Selkirk, Scotland, where he was born in 1775. In the year 1812 he crossed the Atlantic to America, landing at New York, where he remained until 1814. He then made his way by boat to Warren county, Ohio, and cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers of the state. He was united in marriage to Agnes Stephenson, who was born in Roxboroughshire, Scotland, and was a daughter of John and Isabella Stephenson. The marriage was celebrated March 11, 1811, and a year later they sailed for the new world. When Archibald Grieve arrived with his family in what is now Greene county, he bought one hundred acres of land and immediately proceeded to clear a sufficient amount of this in order to erect a little log cabin which would serve as a shelter for his family, and the wolves also seemed to think that it might serve the same purpose for them. It was often necessary to bar the door in order to keep out the wild animals. Wild deer roamed through the forests and venison was a. well known dish upon the pioneer boards, if a member of the family happened to be a good shot. Mr. Grieve proceeded as rapidly as possible in clearing and ,cultivating his land and in a few years he had a comfortable home, although in early days the family endured all the trials and hardships incident to frontier life. He and his wife were members of the Seceder church, now known as the United Presbyterian church, and although the nearest place of worship in the early days was eight miles distant from their home, it did not prevent these worthy people from attending divine services. Archibald Grieve and his wife were the parents, of nine children, of whom our subject and four brothers are the surviving members. Robert Grieve of this review is the only one of the family now residing in Greene county. His oldest brother died in the year 1847. Like most boys of the period Robert Grieve attended the public schools during the winter months and throughout the remainder of the year assisted in the labors of the field and meadow. He was thus engaged until twenty-one years of age, when he put aside his text books and thereafter devoted his entire attention to agricultural pursuits. In 1867 he purchased a farm upon which he long resided—a tract of sixty acres which he cultivated and improved, transforming it into a valuable property. 660 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. He still owns this and also has another farm of one hundred acres on the border line of Xenia and New Jasper townships, which is now managed by his son. For many years in addition to the cultivation of crops best adapted to the soil and climate, Mr. Grieve was extensively engaged in raising graded stock, including shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs, and also bred horses. Thoroughly familiar with the best methods of farming and stock-raising and directing his efforts arong well defined lines Of labor, he met with a richly merited degree of success in hid undertakings and as the years passed accumulated a comfortable competence, which now enables him to live retired. He makes his home in Xenia, enjoying the fruits of his former toil, which supplies him with all the comforts and many .of the luxuries of life. Mr. Grieve married Miss Elizabeth Crawford in 1856. She was a daughter of Robert Crawford, a resident of Xenia, and died in 1888, leaving three sons : Archibald, who is now on one of his father's farms; Rankin, a resident of Xenia, who was sheriff of Greene county for four years ; and John, at home. In 1892 Mr. Grieve married Miss Johanna Kyle, who died in 1895. Religiously he is a member of the Second United Presbyterian church. HENRY H. STAFFORD. Henry H. Stafford was born in Bethel township, Miami county, Ohio, on the 8th of October, 1836, and is a son of William E. and Harriet Newell (Steele) Stafford, both of whom are now deceased. The subject of this review is indebted to the common school system of his native county for the early educational privileges which he enjoyed and later on was a student for one term in Carlyle Academy. He then returned to the home farm, living with his uncle and guardian until he was married' and giving to his uncle the benefit of his services in the care and cultivation of his uncle's fields. On the 4th of October, 1864, Mr. Stafford was joined in wedlock to Miss Sarah Ellen Kable, a daughter of Samuel and Catherine Kable, who were early settlers of Greene county. In the year 1867 Mr. Stafford came to this county, living upon a farm which belonged to his wife's mother. They made their home there for about six years and on the expiration of that period our subject purchased his present farm of eighty-nine acres in Beavercreek township. The buildings and improvements here all stand as evidences of his life, of industry and enterprise, for all have been erected by Mr. Stafford, including a large and attractive home and a barn; thirty-six by fifty-six feet. He carries on, general farming and stock-raising and the fields are under a high state of cultivation, while everything about the place is characterized by neatness. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Stafford have been born six children : Harriet Catherine is the wife of Johnson Engle, a resident of Montgomery county, .Ohio, and they have four children—Elberta, Stafford, Paul and Elizabeth. Franklin K. is engaged in teaching. He is a graduate of the Heidelberg University at Tiffin, Ohio. Edwin L., Herbert S. and Harry H., are all at home. The last three are graduates of the Beavercreek township high school ; and Harry and Herbert are now students in Heidelberg University. Carrie Edith is deceased. The parents and ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 661 their children hold membership in the Reformed church, taking a very active part in its work. Mrs. Stafford is now serving as treasurer of the Ladies Missionary Society and Mr. Stafford has been treasurer of the church, also deacon, and is now filling the position of elder. In politics he is a Prohibitionist and has ever been a strong advocate of temperance principles and of all those movements and measures which tend to benefit humanity. During his residence here, covering more than a quarter of a century, he has become widely and favorably known, enjoying in a high degree the confidence and good-will of his fellow men. TOBIAS DREES. The name of Tobias Drees is so closely associated with the history of Greene county that this volume would be incomplete without his life record. For forty-two years he figured conspicuously as a representative of building interests and his efforts were equally potent in the moral development of the city. His life, so honorable and upright, forms an example well worthy of emulation by those who appreciate the value of character. He realized fully that "Honor and fame from no condition rise" and that upon the man depends his position in the business and social world. To know Tobias Drees was therefore to honor him, for throughout the years of his manhood he faithfully performed the tasks which devolved upon him and his course was so straightforward that his record was above reproach. It is known that Tobias Drees was a representative of the family in the ninth generation. He was born February 19, 1819, in the grand duchy of Oldenburg, Germany, where his family was an old one. In the year 1832 the father started for the new world accompanied by his family. They took passage on a sailing vessel at Bremen and in the month of February arrived in Baltimore, Maryland, making their way to Pittsburg, where they remained for six weeks. During that time the subject of this review acquired a sufficient knowledge of the English language to act as interpreter for the party that accompanied the family, and it was not long before he was quite familiar with the new tongue. He found employment as a waiter in a hotel in Pittsburg, From that city the family removed to Minster, a German village in the northern part of Auglaize county, Ohio, and the father, securing a tract of land, began farming, but later, in connection with his son Tobias, he secured employment on a canal boat running between Troy and Cincinnati. When sixteen years of age Tobias Drees of this review left home, being allowed the privilege of securing work elsewhere on the condition that he would return a part of his wages for the support of the family, which he did for a number of years. On one occasion while making a trip to Troy he seriously considered the future and what he should make of himself and he determined that whatever came he would lead a life of industry and integrity—a resolution to which he always strictly adhered. He first worked as a teamster and later was a porter and clerk in a hotel. When he had attained his majority he determined to learn a trade and entered upon an apprenticeship to a cooper, but after three weeks he decided that the work would never be congenial and sought and obtained a release from his indenture. He next began learning the carpenter's trade under the direction of the 662 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. firm of Crandall & Brown, of Troy, Ohio, entering their service in 1842. They had the contract for building the Greene county courthouse and as the families of the two partners removed to Xenia Mr. Drees accompanied them. and completed his term of apprenticeship, during which time he became an excellent workman, having largely mastered the builder's art. He then started in business on his own account in the same building in which the firm of Crandall & Brown was located, and though he began operations on a very small scale he gradually worked his way upward as he demonstrated his ability to faithfully execute the terms of a contract and in a manner highly satisfactory to those who sought his services. His business constantly increased in volume and importance and he secured the contracts for the erection of many of the finest and most important structures of the city, including public buildings and private residences. Notably prompt and reliable he successfully carried on operations as a contractor and builder until 1883, when he became interested in the manufacture of twine and assisted in organizing the Xenia Cordage Company, in which he became a large stockholder and also acted as its treasurer until his death. He invested a portion of his capital in some excellent farm property and for the comfort and gratification of his - family erected one of the finest residences of the city. On the 31st of December, 1846, Mr. Drees was united in marriage to Miss Maria Hypes, who was born in Xenia April 25, 1825, a daughter of Henry and Sarah ( Wright) Hypes, who came to Greene county from Virginia in 1811. He was born in the latter state, June 11, 1775, and was one of six children born to Nicholas Hypes, who came to the United States in 1760. When lie emigrated to Ohio Greene county was considered a far western district, on the very border of civilization. He secured some unimproved land, a part of which is now included within the city limits of Xenia. There he carried on general farming and in due course of time, owing to the growth of the county, as well as to the improvements-placed on the farm, the land became very valuable. The journey westward had been made overland to the Ohio river, then by flat boat to Cincinnati, and thence to Greene county. Upon his one hundred and twenty-five acre farm he erected a log house for himself and family and made it his home for several years. He was a progressive agriculturist, advocated the introduction of modern machinery and did much to promote farming interests in this portion of the state. When only eighteen years of age Mr. Hypes married Patience Reynolds, of Virginia, who died in 1823, leaving six sons and two daughters, all now deceased. Later he wedded Miss Sarah Wright, a daughter of George and Sophia Wright, who removed from Brunswick county, Virginia, to Xenia.. Four children were born of the second marriage of Mr. Hypes, of whom two are living Maria H., the widow of Mr. Drees ; and Samuel H., who is engaged in the fire insurance and real estate business in Xenia. The others were W. L., who was pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church ; and Fletcher, of the same denomination. Mr. Hypes cast his first vote for the Democratic party. To his surprise that party elected to the legislature a man who could neither read nor write. This displeased Mr. Hypes so much that lie became a Whig. He was a strong and active member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He died October 1, 1854, ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 663 in his eightieth year and his death was deeply and widely mourned. He had long been a valued citizen of this county and had endeared himself to many friends. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Drees were born six children who came to maturity. Charles W. has for twenty-eight years been a missionary of the Methodist Episcopal church in Mexico, South America and Porto Rico. Ernest K. is now located in the auditing department of the Missouri Pacific Railroad Company at St. Louis, Missouri, having filled the position for eleven years; Jennie is the wife of William A. Aiken, who is a civil engineer and spends most of his time in New York city. Frank B. is connected with the Xenia Shoe Factory. Sarah C., is now the widow of Edward C. Nesbitt of Xenia. Wilbur F. is also a resident of Xenia. To whatever position Mr. Drees was called he gave to it his conscientious attention, and his word was considered as good as his bond. He took a lively interest in the growth and development of his adopted city, and was foremost in encouraging the enterprises tending to this end. He served in the city council two terms, and officiated as a member of the school board. In all the re. lations of life he preserved the same equable temperament which constituted him a kind husband and father, a hospitable neighbor and a man who never failed to respond to the call of distress or aid a philanthropic enterprise that sought his assistance. Although born and reared in the Roman Catholic faith, he became converted under the preaching of the Rev. John W. White and at once united with the Methodist Episcopal church, in which for nearly fifty years he was conspicuous as a wise leader, liberal supporter and an exemplary Christian. There was no self-reliance, no boasting of great attainments, but rather a, uniform piety, working out practical results, producing genuine fruits, forming the character, regulating the life. His pleasant home was open night and day for the entertainment of ministers. As an official member of the church, holding at various times the offices of steward, trustee, class leader and Sunday-school superintendent, he was always in his place, shirking no duty, cheerfully meeting every responsibility. To the great doctrines of the' Bible as expounded by Wesley, he gave whole hearted assent, and though by no means a narrow sectarian he was very strongly attached to his own denomination. He was not ordinarily very demonstrative in his religious life, but there were times when his prayers and his testimony were accompanied by an unction that was quite remarkable. As he consciously drew near to the end of his pilgrimage, his testimony in the -classroom and prayer meeting was given with increasing assurance of faith and more and more in the tone of a victor. He passed away April 19, 1889, but the influence of his life is yet a potent factor with many who knew him. Along material and moral lines. his efforts were of great good to the community, and his memory remained as a blessed benediction to those who knew him well. ARTHUR L. FISHER. Arthur L. Fisher, cashier of the Bowersville Bank at Bowersville, Greene county, is one of the native sons of Ohio, his birth having occurred in Clinton county, near Wilmington, in 1858. He is a son of Jacob and Delphia (Smoke) Fisher, both of 664 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. whom were natives of Virginia, but were married in Clinton county, Ohio. The father became a resident of that county when but a boy. He was educated in its public schools, worked upon the home farm in his youth, and when in his 'teens started out in life for himself, working as a farm hand until he came to Greene county, Ohio, in the year 1859. When the subject of this review was three months old the father brought his family to Greene county, settling in Caesarscreek township, about one mile east of Paintersville. There he purchased seventy-five acres of land, which he still owns and upon this farm he has remained continuously since, being now one 'of the venerable and respected residents of the community. In his family were eight 'children, of' whom four are living: Ellen, who is at home with her father; Thomas :and Catherine who died in childhood ; James, who married Fannie Henry and died leaving a son, Russell, who is living with his mother in Clinton county, Ohio; Arthur L. and Arbelle L., twins, the latter of whom 'died at the age of nineteen years; Jennie, who is living at home with her father; and Frank, who married Miss Lydia Faucett, and for the past four years has represented the Milwaukee Harvesting Machine Company in Xenia. The mother of this family died in July, 1901, at the age of seventy-five years, and was laid to rest in Wilmington, Ohio. The father has long been a stanch Democrat, but has never consented -to accept office, preferring to give his attention to his business affairs. He was formerly identified with the Methodist Episcopal church, but is now holding membership relations with the Methodist Protestant church. Having been born in October, .1819, he is now almost eighty-three years or age. His has been an honorable and an upright life and his example is in many respects well worthy of emulation. Arthur L. Fisher pursued his early education in the schools of Paintersvile. and later in the .Faucett district in Jefferson township, continuing his studies there until twenty-two years of age. In 1882 he became a student in Wilmington College and in 1883 he began teaching in Jefferson township, 'Greene county, at the Thomas school, continuing his work as a teacher in Greene county for thirteen years. In December, 1896, he was elected cashier of the Bowersville Bank at Bowersville, the only bank in the village, 0ne year after its organization. He has since filled that position with credit to himself and satisfaction to the institution. A general banking business is carried on and already the enterprise has won success that many an older institution might well desire. On the 14th of June, 1887, Mr. Fisher was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Carpenter, a daughter of Nathan Carpenter, who resides in Jefferson township, and they now have one son, Herbert. Both Mr. and Mrs. Fisher belong to the Methodist Episcopal church of Bowersville, taking an active and helpful part in its work and for the past thirteen years he has been superintendent of the Sunday school. During the erection of the new church in 1902 he was one of the building committee, and is also one of the trustees of the church. He also belongs to the Odd Fellows' Society and has passed all of the chairs, being now the district deputy for his district. He was elected clerk of his township in April, 1888, and held that office for three consecutive terms, while in 1899 he was elected township treasurer and is still filling that posi- ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 665 tion, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. He votes with the Democracy in general elections. In 1900 he was elected a member of the town council, in which he is serving for the second term. Mr. Fisher is well known in this county, having come here at an early day. He is regarded as reliable and trustworthy in business, while in social circles his friendly and genial nature has made him popular. GEORGE R. GORDON. There is particular satisfaction in reverting to the life history of the honored and venerable gentleman whose name initiates this review, since his mind bears the impress of the historical annals of the state of Ohio from the early pioneer days, and from the fact that he has been a loyal son of the Republic and has attained to a position of distinctive prominence in the thriving county where he was born and where he has retained his residence until the present time, being now one of the revered patriarchs of the community. A native of Sugarcreek township, Greene county, George R. Gordon was born there upon his father's farm October I 1, 1815. He is the second son in a family of eight children, whose parents were George and Agnes (McDonald) Gordon. The family was of Scotch-Irish ancestry. The great-great-grandfather McLean, whose granddaughter Mary became the wife of George Gordon, the grandfather of the subject of this review, had obtained considerable knowledge of the sea, in fact, he was so well versed concerning different channels leading from England to various sections of the world that the discovered that when in mid-ocean that the: captain of the vessel in which he had taken passage for America was not following the-American course and, believing that he intended to take the passengers to the Mediterranean and sell them to the Turks, ordered. the captain to change his course if he did not want to be killed. At the same time Mr.. McLean drew his sword and forced the captain to remain in the hold of the ship, until it had reached the American harbors.. George Gordon, the grandfather of our subject, was numbered among the soldiers of the Revolutionary war. He removed from. Kentucky to Ohio in 1802 and settled in. Warren county, where he died at the age of seventy-one years. George Gordon, the father of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania in 1786 and came with the family to Ohio in 1813, arriving in Greene county, in the month of March. Through the succeeding forty years he carried on agricultural pursuits in this county and in 1853 he took up his abode in Xenia, locating in the residence in which our subject now makes his home. He first resided in Sugarcreek township, which was then an almost unbroken wilderness, inhabited by Indians, the work of progress and civilization having been scarcely begun. After removing to Xenia Mr. Gordon lived a retired life until called to his final rest in December, 1879. His wife-had passed away in the year 1860. Their oldest son, John M., devoted his life to the-work of the gospel as a minister and died at St. Louis Springs, Michigan, in December, 1871. The maternal grandfather of our subject, John McDonald, was one of the heroes of the Revolutionary War, holding the rank of lieutenant. colonel. Although he- 666 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. served throughout the entire struggle he did not receive a scratch, but afterward lost an eye through an accident, being hit with a spike by his brother. In the primitive schools which existed in Greene county in pioneer days George R. Gordon pursued his early education, completing his studies in Xenia. When he had attained to man's estate he began farming on his own account and later he engaged in teaching school in Xenia and in the district schools as well from 1840 to 1847. He was employed as a salesman in a general store in Xenia, and then with the money which he had saved from his earnings he embarked in general merchandising on his own account in connection with his brother William I. This partnership was maintained from the fall of 1852 until the summer of 1858, when Mr. Gordon of this review withdrew from the firm and resumed farming, which has claimed his attention continuously since. At one time he and his brother made a specialty of the cultivation of potatoes and in a single season sold between eight and ten thousand bushels. Mr. Gordon has led a very busy, useful and active life, and although he is past the eighty-sixth milestone on life's journey in the year 1901 he put in fifty acres of wheat, as well as the cultivation of other fields, and also gave his attention to the care of three horses. Old age is not necessarily the synonym of weakness or inactivity, and it need not suggest, as a matter of years, helplessness or want of occupation. The business career of Mr. Gordon should put to shame many a young man of much younger years who relegate to others the burdens that he should bear. As the years have passed Mr. Gordon has prospered and has ever been accounted one of the most honorable and straight forward farmers of this portion of the state. He conies of a long-lived race and one that has every right to claim honesty and industry as among their sterling characteristics. Mr. Gordon has never failed to .vote for a president since attaining his majority, and has always been a stanch advocate of the Whig and Republican parties. He is identified with the United Presbyterian church, to which he contributes generously and at all times he has been in hearty sympathy with movements and measures which contribute to the general good. For eighty-seven years he has been a witness of the progress and development of this portion of the state. In his youth he experienced the hardships and privations of pioneer life incident to the establishment of a home on the frontier. As the years have passed great changes were wrought and in the work of progress he ever bore his part as a good and faithful citizen. To-day he is respected and esteemed for his sterling worth and his life history well deserves a place in the annals of the county. SIMON SPARKS. The subject of this review is a self-made man who, without any extraordinary family or pecuniary advantages at the commencement of life, has battled earnestly and energetically and by indomitable courage and integrity has achieved both character and fortune. By sheer force of will and untiring effort he has worked his way upward and is numbered among the leading business men of Dayton, Ohio. For some time Mr. Sparks was associated with the business interests of Bell- ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 667 brook, Greene county, and is a native of this county, his birth having occurred on his father's farm a few miles from the village of Bellbrook on the 24th of April, 1832. His parents were Ephraim and Mary (Elwell) Sparks, in whose family were eight children, all of whom reached maturity, namely : Simon ; Abigail ; Hannah ; John ; Sarah Ann ; Lydia ; Ella, and William E., who was state senator from Dayton two terms. In 1806 the family was established in this por- tion of the state, the name figuring on the pages of Greene county history from pioneer times. The father of our subject was born only a few miles from Bellbrook in 1809, and in early life learned the blacksmith's trade but devoted the greater part of his time and attention to agricultural pursuits. The mother, though born in New Jersey, came to Greene county when a small child in company with her parents and located near Yellow Springs, in the Jersey settlement. On the old family homestead Simon Sparks of this review was reared and in his youth he assisted in the labors of the fields. He received but six years education and during that time mastered such branches of learning as were taught in the little log school house near Clifton, Ohio. On leaving the parental roof at the age of nineteen years he went to Springfield, Ohio, where he learned the machinist's trade in the threshing machine shop of John A. Pitts, and remained there until coming to Dayton in 1852 with the railroad company, being in .their employ until 1861. During the following twelve years he was superintendent of the Robinson Machine Works at Richmond, Indiana, and also did the drafting and planning for that company. Mr. Sparks was superintendent of the Woodsum Machine Company of Dayton, Ohio, for twelve years and then formed a partnership with J. F. Perrine in 1883 and purchased the shop and machinery at Dayton, Ohio, which is still owned by them, business being carried on under the firm style of Dayton Engine Works. Their plant is located on Newmarket street, between Sears and Webster, and is a large shop, occupying the full space between those streets. It is supplied with the latest improved machinery both for making traction engines, which are their specialty, and also portable and gas engines. The firm also does the usual repair work connected with a large shop, including the repairing of locomotives. Mr. Sparks is superintendent of the works as well as a member of the firm, being a practical machinist, and the success of the enterprise is principally due to his well directed and energetic efforts. The firm stands prominent among the leading representatives of industrial interests in Dayton and the volume of their business is now extensive. Certainly oar subject deserves great credit for what he has accomplished, for he started out on his own account when young without capital, placing his dependence only upon the substantial qualities of determination, laudable ambition and perseverance. On the 25th of December, 1855 Mr. Sparks was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth J. Wiggim, who was born and reared in Dayton, Ohio. Her father, Hugh Wiggim, was a native of Ireland, but during his infancy was brought to Dayton, where lie became a prominent business man, carrying on a steam cooperage. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Sparks was blessed with six children, but two died in infancy. Those 668 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. living are Albert F., now general manager and superintendent of the James Leffel Wheel Company of Springfield, Ohio; Rose, the wife of H. K. Smith, of Dayton; Grace, now Mrs. J. O. Foss, of Dayton; and Frank S., of Springfield. The wife and mother passed away on the 8th of May, 1890. Mr. Sparks holds membership in St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal church of Dayton, of which he was one of the founders, and has been steward since its organization and recording steward of the quarterly conference for twelve years. He is associated with both branches of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to Wayne Lodge, No. 10, of which he is past grand, and is also past chief patriarch of the encampment No. 2, and was president of the Odd Fellows Aid Association for many years. He is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men, and has been president of the Gem City Bellbrook Club from the time of its organization. His political support is given the Republican party Mr. Sparks has always taken a deep interest in Bellbrook affairs and has in his possession many historical papers, including the first rough map of Bellbrook. He has_ written many able articles on both the Odd Fellows society and the sports of the countryside. Throughout life he has made good use of his opportunities, has prospered from year to year, and has conducted all business matters carefully and successfully, and in all his acts displays an aptitude for successful management. He has not permitted the accumulation of a competence to effect in any way his actions toward those less successful than he, and has always a cheerful word and pleasant smile for all with whom he comes in contact. He has passed into his seventy-first year, yet is in good physical condition; was never sick until the last two years. Being a strict temperance advocate he attributes his long life and good health to adhering to these principles. He was made a member of the old original Washingtonians in 1840, and to this day has never violated its pledge to abstain from all spiritual liquors as a beverage. RICHARD GALLOWAY. Richard Galloway is an honored veteran of the Civil war and a native son of Greene county, where he has spent his entire life with the exception of the period passed upon the battlefields of the south in defense of the Union. He was born on a farm in Xenia township, now included within the city limits of Xenia, June 7, 1830, and remained at home until after he had attained his majority. He is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Collins) Galloway, both of whom were descendants of Scotch ancestry, their respective families having been founded in America at an early day. The father of our subject was a native of Kentucky and came to Ohio in 1797, before the admission of the state into the Union. He took up his abode in Greene county and as a pioneer settler aided in laying the foundation upon which has been builded the present prosperity and progress of this portion of the state. He engaged in fanning and milling for many years, but at length his mill was destroyed by fire. It was one of the early milling plants of the county and settlers came for miles to secure his services in grinding their grain. In early manhood Samuel Galloway was ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 671 united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Collins, who was a native of Pennsylvania and came to this county in 1816. For more than half a century the father resided in this county, passing away in 1851, at the age of sixty-six years. His widow, long surviving him, passed away January 29, 1885, at the advanced age of eighty-nine years. They were members of the United Presbyterian church and respected people of the community. The father was a hard working, energetic man. He took an active interest in all public improvements tending to benefit the county and became one of the first stockholders of the Little Miami Railroad. In his church he filled the office of deacon and when his country became engaged in the second war with England he joined the American army, serving with the rank of corporal. In his family were five children : Richard, of this review; Lydia, who became the wife of A. A. Gordon, of Holton, Kansas, and died leaving one child, George A., who is now extensively engaged in stock-raising in Holton ; James C., who died of scarlet fever, in Xenia, at the age of four years ; Rebecca, who lives with her brother Richard ; and one that died in infancy, unnamed. In his youth Richard Galloway attended the public schools and assisted in the work of the home farm, until after the beginning of the Civil war, when aroused by a spirit of patriotism, he responded to the call for aid and enlisted in September, 1862, as a member of 'Company D, Seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry, with which, he remained for five months. He was wounded at the battle of Stone River and so disabled that he was honorably discharged on the 28th of February, 1863. He is now a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. After receiving his discharge Mr. Galloway returned to his home in Xenia, where he has resided continuously since. The first year after his return he was elected county treasurer of Greene county and discharged his duties so acceptably and promptly that he was re-elected and filled the position for a second term. He retired from office as he had entered it—with the confidence and good will of all concerned—and when his official .service was ended he turned his attention to farming and also engaged in the lumber business in connection with Captain A. McDowell, but after continuing in that line of commercial activity for some years he finally sold out to his partner and. is now living a retired life at his pleasant home upon the old family farmstead. The present large house was erected by him in the fall and winter of 1858. In early life Mr. Galloway endorsed the men and measures of the old Whig party but since its dissolution has given his support to the Republican party. He is a member of the First United Presbyterian church in which he was deacon for fully twenty years, until that order was discontinued, since which time he has served as trustee, and is a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family of his native county. WALTER HAGAR. It is not the men who occupy prominent political positions or who win distinction in military circles that are the real founders of a city but they who establish business enterprises, promoting- the commercial activity. Among the prominent and honored residents of Xenia, connected with industrial and financial circles was Walter Hagar, the 672 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. originator of the paper industry of this place. He advanced to an honorable and conspicuous position in commercial circles, winning prominence entirely through his own efforts, yet by no means were his energies devoted entirely to trade. Family, friends, church and society claimed his attention and he was widely known as an earnest worker for the advancement of all that tends to promote the interest of city and country. He discharged every church and social obligation with a fidelity above question. He was a pleasant genial gentleman, whose cordial qualities endeared him to many friends. Walter Hagar was born on the 4th of March, 1823, and was one of a family of ten children, whose parents were Isaac and Eunice (Steadman) Hagar. His father was a native of Massachusetts and for sometime was identified with manufacturing interests of that state. His death occurred in 1828 and his wife, long surviving him, passed away in 1854. When fifteen years of age Walter Hagar entered upon his business career as an employe in the paper mills of his native town Newton Lower Falls, Massachusetts. As the years passed he steadily advanced in his chosen vocation until he was familiar with all the departments of the business. In the year 1857 he removed to Kentucky and for two years was superintendent of the paper mills near the city of Frankfort, where slave labor constituted half the force employed prior to the Civil war. Mr. Hagar came to Ohio and entered into a business compact with the firm of Bachelor, DeCamp & Company, of Cincinnati, to superintend their mills at Lockland. For six years he remained at that place and then removed to Dayton, where for three years he had the management of a paper mill of that city. Later he spent six years in Clifton, Greene county, where he was engaged in the manufacture of paper under the firm name of King & Hagar. The company was then dissolved and Mr. Hagar removed to Enon, Ohio, where he superintended the construction of the paper mills of the Springfield Republic Company and when the plant was completed assumed its management. After eight years there he came to Xenia and for many years was a very active factor in industrial circles of this place. Probably no other business interests have had as important a bearing upon commercial activity in Xenia as has the manufacture of paper. The company was organized in May, 1881, with a capital stock of twenty thousand dollars. The officers of the company were Hon. John Little, president ; F. C. Trebein, vice president ; C. C. Shearer, secretary ; John S. Ankeney, treasurer ; Walter Hagar, superintendent. Mr. Hagar was the prime mover of the enterprise. He formed the plans and then secured the assistance of Mr. Ankeney, the cashier of the Second National Bank. At first the plant was about one-half its present size. It was, however, supplied with excellent machinery, capable of producing six thousand pounds of paper daily. Later the buildings were enlarged and by increasing the speed and also doubling the amount of machinery used, the quantity of paper produced averaged about thirty thousand pounds daily. The success of the enterprise was .attributable in a very large measure to the broad experience and business executive ability of Mr. Hagar. Some changes in the offices later occurred, the members of the board being : Hon. John Little, president ; F. .C. Trebein, vice president ; Edwin W. Hagar, treasurer; Horace Ankeney, secre- ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY - 673 tary ; and Walter Hagar superintendent and manager. Throughout his entire business career Mr. Hagar was connected with paper manufacturing. At the time of his death, he was the president and the heaviest stockholder in the Hagar Strawboard Paper Company of Cedarville, Greene county, the present president being Edwin W. Hagar. On February 15, 1847, Walter Hagar was united in marriage to Miss Martha Fuller, a daughter of Harvey and Almeda (Fiske) Fuller, both natives of Massachusetts. To Mr. and Mrs. Hagar was born six children, of whom four are still living : Sarah B. ; Mary G. ; Edwin W., who takes his father's place in industrial circles ; and Albert F., a very prominent attorney of New York city. Mr. Hagar was identified with the Episcopal church, to which his family also belong, and in politics was a stanch Republican. His life record covers seventy-five years. He passed away on the 11th of August, 1898, respected by all who knew him. With the capacity and experience that would enable him to fulfill any trust to which he might have been chosen, he never sought to advance himself in office, but was content to do his duty, where he could and leave the self-seeking to others. Viewed in a personal light he was of a strong mind, of excellent judgment, firm in his views, yet strong in advancing ideas that he believed to be right, and in his relations with his fellow men he was highly honorable, and his integrity stood as an unquestioned fact in his career. Though severe at times toward men and measures deserving criticism, he was nevertheless a generous friend and a warm advocate of those who are battling for the 'right and of principles and policies for the public good. He was recognized by those who knew him as a man of most kindly heart, of sterling worth and integrity pure and incorruptable in all his business and social relations. JOSEPH R. SMITH. Joseph R. Smith, who is engaged in farming on Bull Skin pike in Spring Valley township, was born in this township on the 4th of February, 1850, his parents being James and Elizabeth (Caine) Smith. The father was a blacksmith. During his early boyhood Joseph R. Smith resided with his parents in the village of New Burlington, but when he was about fourteen years of age his father began agricultural pursuits on the Poague farm near Roxanna, where he leased land for fifteen years. Mr. Smith, of this review, remained under the parental roof until about twenty-two years of age. In his youth lie acquired a good common-school education and was early trained to habits of industry, economy and integrity, which have proven valuable factors in his success in later life. As a companion and helpmate for life's journey he chose Miss Elizabeth Huffman, of Mt. Holly, Warren county, Ohio, where she was born, her parents being Edward and Almira (Loy) Huffman. The marriage was celebrated on the 4th of January, 1872, and then Mr. Smith rented a farm and began agricultural pursuits on his own account. Seven years ago he came to the place upon which he is now living. The farm belongs to his brother, J. W. Smith, who is employed as a bookkeeper in a dry-goods store of Indianapolis, Indiana. Our subject devotes 674 - ROBINSON'S HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY. his attention to the cultivation of the crops best adapted to the soil and climate, and his efforts have brought to him a good income. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born two children : Mellie, the wife of Bert Boston, by whom she has three children—Fred, Harry and Lucille; and Clara, who is employed as a typewriter and bookkeeper in Xenia. The parents hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church of New Burlington, and Mr. Smith has exercised his right of franchise in support of the men land measures of the Republican party since casting his first presidential vote for U. S. Grant in 1872. EDWARD R. WALTON. Edward R. Walton, who is engaged in farming at New Burlington, is numbered among the native sons of Greene county, his birth having occurred in Spring Valley township on the 5th of January, 1832. The Waltons came to America at an early day and settled on the Schuylkill river. Though they came from England they were of Welsh lineage. In the party were four brothers and one of the number remained in Pennsylvania, while the direct ancestor of our subject removed to Virginia, and two of .the brothers went to other parts of the south. His father, Samuel Walton, was born in Frederick county, Virginia, March 26, 1804, while the grandfather, Edward, was born in the same county on the 3d of January, 1777. There the latter lived until after his marriage and two children were born unto him in the Old Dominion. In 1806 he emigrated westward to Ohio, purchasing land where the town of Spring Val ley now stands. In 1808 he removed his family to his new home and became an active factor in the early development and progress of this portion of the state. He was a miller by occupation but he never followed that trade here, his attention being given to agricultural pursuits. He had the land surveyed and laid out the village of Spring Valley and contributed in large measure to the pioneer development and improvement of Greene county. Through more than half a century he maintained his residence here, passing away in 1867. In his family were eight children, of whom six reached years of maturity, namely : Samuel, Elizabeth, Moses, Eunice, John, Hannah, Edward and Mary, who died in infancy. Samuel Walton, the father of our subject, was but four years old when brought by his parents to Greene county. Here he was reared amid wild scenes of frontier life and at an early day he followed farming and teaming. As he acquired some capital he invested in land and became the owner of one hundred and twenty-three acres near the village. Intending to engage in merchandizing he planned to have a store building erected but died before it was completed. He had married Catherine Mendenhall, who was born in North Carolina, and they became the parents of six children, of whom our subject was the third. After the husband's death the mother kept the children together, providing .for them as best she could. Edward R. Walton acquired a good common-school education and when about twenty years of age began teaching, which he followed for three terms. He was first employed in that capacity in Spring Valley under Robert E. Doan. Later he went to Iowa and was employed as a teacher in