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350 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


appointment of Mr. Al Vance, he began his campaign against vice, for a clean town. In this he was supported by the law-abiding citizens, but was bitterly outraged by the gambling and liquor element.


"Believing that the liquor laws were being violated, Mayor Bricker brought detectives, who secured evidence against two druggists, one doctor and one bootlegger. These were brought to trial and fined from one hundred dollars to one hundred and fifty dollars each. This met the approval of the temperance people, but increased the bitterness of the liquor element. Mayor Bricker has been bitterly attacked by the liquor element, but went right on doing his duty.


"In addition to many minor arrests for liquor violations, Mr. Bricker raided poker joints, fined the gamblers and did much more to punish vice, besides settling many cases out of court. Altogether, during his administration, more arrests were made and more than twice the amount collected in fines than in all the previous history of the town. As a result of this, although with increasing population, many of the rougher element came, Utica was one of the most orderly towns to be found."


He became a charter member of Morgan Grange, Knox county, being connected therewith from 1872 until 1879. He belongs to the Sons of Veterans and for the past thirty-two years has been a devoted and helpful member of the Church of Christ of Utica, in which he is now serving as elder and Sunday-school superintendent. Public spirited and progressive in his citizenship, he cooperates in all movements for the material, intellectual, political and moral progress of his community and the work that he has accomplished and the methods that valued pursued have made him a valuec and representative resident of his native county.




SAMUEL J. MOTHERSPAUGH


Samuel J. Motherspaugh, who is largely interested in agriculture and stock, raising in Franklin township, this county, is a native of the township, where his birth occurred November 27, 1850. His ancestors were among the pioneers of this part of the county. his maternal great-grandfather, John Fesel, having come to this region at an early date. .His first dwelling consisted of a cabin constructed simply of four uprights supporting a roof made out of brush, which he later vacated and entered a log cabin having a split puncheon floor, and in this he spent his remaining days. The paternal grandfather, Daniel Motherspaugh, was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, and came here early in life, locating on the farm in Franklin township where he passed his remaining days with his wife, who bore the maiden name of Christina Fesel, and who was a native of Shenandoah, Virginia, coming here with her people in childhood. Among their children was John, who was born and reared on his father's farm, which he finally inherited and operated until he departed this life, February 22, 1896, when his remains were interred in the Lutheran cemetery. His wife, also a native of Franklin township, survives him and resides with her son, Samuel J. In politics he was a democrat, and during his career held a number of township offices, among which was that of trustee. He was also quite influential in the Lutheran church, of which he


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 353


was a member and in the affairs of which he was a leading factor and promoter, having served for a number of years on the board of deacons. They reared a family of four children, namely : Samuel J.; Lucinda, deceased; Amelia A., deceased; and Ella, deceased.


During his boyhood days Samuel J. Motherspaugh passed through the experiences common to a country lad on his father's farm, assisting in performing various home duties during the summer season and in the winter availing himself of the educational opportunities of the neighboring schools, and upon completing his studies he remained upon the home farm until he was twenty-six years of age, at which period of his life he was united in marriage and settled down on a farm where he has since resided. He owns forty-seven acres and controls one hundred and fifty acres of fine farm land which at present is the property of his mother and which will eventually revert to him. He operates both farms, engaging principally in the production of general crops, carrying on stock raising on a small scale. His farm is in fine condition since Mr. Motherspaugh is very particular about the appearance of his premises and is always solicitous to keep his buildings and fences in repair, so that the entire place bears every evidence of the enterprising spirit of the owner.


In 1875 Mr. Motherspaugh wedded Miss Anna R. Fravel, a native of Shenandoah county, Virginia, the same county in which was born Mr. Motherspaugh's grandmother, and to this union have been born two children, the first having departed this life in infancy, while Chester C. was born May 17, 1885. The circumstances attending the death of Chester C., an engraving of whom is shown on the opposite page, were very distressing. While mounting his horse he slipped and caught his foot in the stirrup, receiving injuries from which he never recovered. In fact he never regained consciousness after the accident and passed away ten days later, his remains being interred in the Lutheran cemetery on the 31st of July, 1899. The old saying, "Those whom the gods love die young" was exemplified in this instance. He was a young lad whom every one loved and admired and his death came as a great blow to his parents and was deeply mourned in the surrounding community. C. W. Seifert officiated at the funeral, services. Politically Mr. Motherspaugh supports the democratic party, and has served efficiently in the township as road supervisor, and also as school director. He is a member of the local Grange and is affiliated with the Lutheran church, to which his wife also belongs and in which both are ardent workers. He devotes his entire time to his farm and his aggressive spirit being well known throughout the township, as is also his reputation for integrity, he is a man who merits the respect of all as a substantial citizen.


FRED W. HOBART.


Agricultural advancement is well conserved through the efforts and industry of Fred W. Hobart, who owns and occupies what is known as the old Hobart homestead of one hundred and fifty acres. It was upon this farm, a mile north of Granville, that his birth occurred January 13, 1872, and it has been his place


354 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


of residence continuously since. Here he follows general farming and makes a specialty also of raising good horses and operates a cider mill. His father, Henry Warden Hobart, long a prominent resident of the county, was a representative of old pioneer families. He also came of Revolutionary stock, his maternal great grandfather, Jonas Warden, having commanded a company with the rank of captain in the war which gave rise to the republic. The grandfather, Gabriel Warden, served as a captain in the war of 1812. His daughter, Mary Warden, was born in the state of Vermont, which was also the birthplace of Giles Hobart, to whom she gave her hand in marriage in Ohio, they having come with their respective parents to this city in early days. Unto them were born five sons and a daughter : Henry Warden, whose birth occurred in Granville township, September 22, 1836; Martha, the wife of S. J. Everett, a farmer of Granville township ; Heman L., a farmer of Cass county, Missouri; Louis M., deceased; George B., who follows agricultural pursuits in Kansas, and Wesley J., of Columbus Giles Hobart continued a resident of Licking county until his death in 1873, when he was sixty-two years of age, while his wife died a few years later at the age of sixty-four years.


Henry Warden Hobart attended the district schools and the Academy at Granville. He chose as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared and became a successful agriculturist, remaining always a resident of Granville with the exception of the year 1858, which he spent in Kansas. He was married, January 31, 1859, to Miss Hattie E. Irish, the wedding being performed in Granville by the Rev. Jacob Little, one of the old-time and honored ministers. Mrs. Hobart was born in Chittenden county, Vermont, in 1838, and represented an old New England family. When fifteen years of age she came to Granville with an aunt and attended the old Episcopal Seminary, then under the management of Dr. Sanburn. She engaged in teaching for a few years prior to her marriage and afterward devoted her energies to the care of her household. Three children were born of this union : Ida, May, who died in her seventh year ; Carrie L., who was born August 19, 1861 and died April 27, 1904; and Fred W., whose name introduces this record. The father owned a valuable farm of one hundred and fifty acres and was engaged in breeding registered Spanish Merino sheep. His place was splendidly improved and gave indication of his careful management and progressive ideas. He erected a fine residence upon a natural building site in the midst of beautiful shade and ornamental trees, and made his place one of the finest country homes in the county. He could always be counted upon to further any progressive measure calculated to prove of benefit to the community, and while he usually voted with the republican party he did not consider himself bound by party ties. He remained an honored and respected resident of the county until his death, which occurred August 13, 1900. His wife still survives and is now a resident of Granville.


Upon the old home farm Fred W. Hobart was reared and in the public schools he acquired his education. As he advanced in years and strength, he assisted his father more and more largely in the work of the fields, and afterward came into possession of the old homestead, which comprises one hundred and fifty acres of rich and productive land, constituting one of the fine and well developed farms of the county. He uses the latest improved machinery to facilitate the work of


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the fields, practices the rotation of crops, studies the condition of the soil and stands as an exponent of modern, scientific farming. In addition to cultivating the fields he makes a specialty of raising good draft and road horses and owns imported Belgium stock. He also has a cider mill on his place which he operates in the fall, a maple sugar bush, a peach orchard of twenty-five hundred trees and also an apple orchard. All these features make his place very attractive for the entertainment of many students at Denison University, and it is a popular thing with them to visit the sugar hush and the cider mill, so that he frequently entertains a hundred at a time.


On the 30th of October, 1895, Mr. Hobart was married to Miss Anna Watkins, who was born in Granville township, July 23, 1875, a daughter of David and Mary Watkins, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. They became parents of four children, but Ernest died at the age of seven months. The others are Ethel, Dorothy and Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Hobart are well known and popular not only with their neighbors but with the citizens of Granville, and many throughout the county. His political allegiance is given to the republican party, while his fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias at Granville. He is a worthy representative of a prominent pioneer family and his record reflects credit upon the untarnished family name.


RAYMOND O. MARTIN.


Raymond O. Martin, filling the position of deputy auditor in Newark, was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, August 27, 1883. His father, Adam L. Martin, was also a native of the same county and in 1897 removed to Licking county, settling in Madison township where he resumed farming, in which work he is still engaged. His wife, Lucinda (Sagle) Martin, was also a native of Muskingum county.


Spending his boyhood and early youth there, Raymond O. Martin supplemented his district school training by study in Zanesville high school, and holds a teacher's certificate, but has never used it. He sought to follow some professional labor, and when eighteen years of age took up the study of law. He had no parental assistance or financial support of any kind, and was dependent upon his own resources for a living while pursuing his legal education. The hours which other young men usually devote to pleasure were given by him to the mastery of the principles of jurisprudence and in June, 1906, he was admitted to the bar, successfully passing the required examinations before the court at Columbus He then opened an office in Newark, practicing until October of that year; when he was appointed deputy auditor, which position he has since filled. He has likewise served as clerk of the county board of elections and has been loyal in the discharge of his official duties, prompt and efficient.


On the 21st of June, 1906, Mr. Martin was married to Miss Pearl May Roberts, a native of Newark, and a daughter of William and Mary Roberts. They have now one son, Raymond Wright, born May 1, 1908. Mr. Martin is connected with the Modern Woodmen and Council No. 721 of the Knights of


356 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


Columbus. He is a trustee of the Newark city library and is interested in al that pertains to municipal affairs along progressive lines, giving his support every measure and movement that tends to the upbuilding and development o Newark. He is widely known and his acquaintance among the better class o Newark citizens indicates in him the possession of those qualities which wi respect and regard in every land and clime.




JOSEPH H. NEWTON.


Joseph H. Newton was born January 10, 1836, at Smithfield, Jefferson county, Ohio, his parents being George F. and Eliza (Gray) Newton. When two years old his father removed to Holmes county, where the subject of this sketch acquired a common-school and academic education. At the age of eighteen years he left the student's desk for the printer's case. He learned the printing trade in the office of the Holmes County Farmer, of which his father at that time was the owner and proprietor, and when twenty years of age he became the editor of the paper, which was the official organ of the democratic party of Holmes county. On December 16, 1858, Mr. Newton and Miss Anna M. Sproal, a prominent and highly respected young woman of Millersburg, Ohio, went from that place to Mansfield, where they were married. By this marriage three children were born, two of whom, a son and a daughter, died in infancy. The third, Eliza, is the widow of the late Andrew H. Pierson, formerly business manager of the Advocate.


In 1859 Mr. Newton sold his interest in the Holmes County Farmer to Judge J. A. Estill. The following year he was appointed deputy auditor, his father at that time being the auditor. Later he was elected county auditor and the regard and esteem in which he was held by his friends and neighbors was greatly evidenced at that time. He took possession of the office in March, 1870, and served two terms. At that time and afterward he held a number of minor positions of trust and responsibility and was for ten years a member of the board of education of Millersburg.


Mr. Newton actively participated, in 18.69, in the extension of what is now the Cleveland, Akron & Columbus Railroad from Millersburg to Mount Vernon and Columbus. The road in those days had its terminus at Millersburg but through his enterprise, coupled with that of prominent citizens of Mount Vernon who were interested in the company, it was extended to the state capital. In 1873 he was one of the prime movers in the Dresden branch of this railroad, the completion of which, however, was delayed some years on account of the financial panic of that year. During the period from 1870 to 1875 he was engaged in the coal and coal land business, the latter portion of which time he had an office in Cleveland. In the spring of 1877 he became occupied with J. A. Caldwell in the publication of local historical works, which engagement continued for nearly three years. During this time Mr. Newton wrote and edited histories of the counties of Clearfield, Jefferson and Venango in Pennsylvania, the four counties of the Pan Handle in West Virginia and the counties of Belmont and Jefferson in Ohio. Some of these works contained an exhaustive history of that interesting


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period in western annals when the Ohio river was the dividing line between the western frontier, settled by whites, and the trackless wilderness which was the abode of powerful tribes of hostile Indians, the preparation and editing of which required extensive and careful research.


In January, 1880, Mr. Newton became an editorial writer on the Wheeling Register, and manager of the weekly edition of that paper. In March of the same year he severed his connection with the Wheeling Register to become editor of the Newark Advocate, and during his continuous connection with the paper, covering a period of twenty-nine years, he has become well known throughout the state as a prominent editor. The Advocate is in every respect a democratic organ. The principles of Jefferson's party are vigorously supported and its uncompromising stand for democratic doctrine at all times has earned for it a well deserved place among the foremost democratic papers of the state.


Two years after Mr. Newton took charge of the Advocate, the Daily Advocate was started by him and the success that it has achieved is, owing, more than anything else, to the energy and push of its founder. For a number of years it was considered the largest democratic daily published in any city the size of Newark in the state.


Mr. Newton, aside from his editorial work, has always been a great admirer of Izaak Walton and is an enthusiastic angler. His fondness for this sport and his knowledge of fish culture received recognition from Governor James E. Campbell, who in March, 1890, appointed him a member of the state board of fish and game commissioners. He served four years on this board and was then compelled to resign on account of numerous other duties, which made it impossible for him to give the position proper attention.


In July, 1893, Mr. Newton became postmaster of Newark and served until April, 1898, some nine months after the expiration of his term. He served on the state fish and game commission front 1890 to 1893 and was a trustee of the Massillon hospital board for four years under the administration of Governor Nash. For the past five years he has been president of the Ohio Democratic Editorial Association.


On December 16, 1908, Mr. and Mrs. Newton celebrated their golden wedding anniversary at their home in this city, the event being one of the most notable held here for some time.


SIMON LUTHER HAAS


Simon Luther Haas, a prosperous and enterprising agriculturist of Washington township, was born on the farm where he still resides, on the 21st of December, 1842, his parents being John and Mary (Boyd) Haas, both of whom were natives of West Virginia. In 1811 the father accompanied his parents on their removal to Licking county, Ohio, the family home being established upon a farm which the grandfather purchased and on which he erected a log house and barn. The grandparents of our subject spent the remainder of their lives in this county and were numbered among the honored early settlers here. John


360 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


Haas, the father of Simon L. Haas, was called to his final rest in 1874, having for a long period survived his wife, who passed away in 1843. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, namely: J. K., William and J. W., all of whom are deceased; S. L., of this review; and one who died in infancy.


Simon Luther. Haas obtained a common-school education and remained under the parental roof until he had reached the age of twenty-seven years, when he was united in marriage to Miss Delia Harris, a native of Licking county. Subsequent to the death of his first wife, who lived but a short time after her marriage, he wedded Miss Laura C. English, whose birth occurred in Newark township, November 5, 1847, her parents being Nathaniel and Rachel (Helphrey) English, also natives of this county. Mrs. Haas, who is a graduate of the Granville high school, was one of a family of four children, as follows: Mrs. John Watkins, a resident of Licking county ; Mrs. Haas; and two who died in infancy. Unto our subject and his wife have been born two children: Mamie G., the wife of Samuel Rhyne, of Mount Vernon, Ohio; and John E., who is married and operates a part of his father's farm. Mr. and

Mrs. Haas also have five grandchildren.


Subsequent to his marriage Mr. Haas rented the old homestead farm until his father's death, at which time he purchased the property and has since been successfully engaged :in its cultivation and development. The farm comprises one hundred and ten acres of rich and productive land, and in addition to the work of the fields he has made a specialty of raising Norman horses and sheep, both branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income.


In his political views Mr. Haas is a stanch republican and has taken an active interest in the local work of the party, having served for seven years as supervisor and for twelve years as school director. His wife is a devoted member of the Christian church. Both Mr. and Mrs. Haas have spent their entire lives in this county and are well known and highly esteemed as worthy and respected representatives of honored pioneer families here.


JACOB J. NETHERS.


Jacob J. Nethers is a substantial agriculturist, owning and operating one hundred and sixty-five acres in Hanover township, on which he has made his home for a long period. He was born on his father's farm in this county, May 15, 1868, a son of Henry and Ann (Rector) Nethers, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Ohio. The father was a boy when he accompanied his parents from his native state to Muskingum county, Ohio, the family home being established near Frazeysburg. He there remained until about the time of his marriage, when he removed to Licking county and since that time has lived in Hanover and Perry townships, now making his home in the latter.


Jacob J. Nethers, whose name introduces this sketch, was reared on the home farm in Perry township and attended the common schools during the winter seasons, therein mastering the common branches of English learning. He was early trained to the duties of the home farm, assisting his father in the fields from the


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time of early spring planting until the crops were harvested in the late autumn. This training and knowledge served him well when he started out to make his own way in the world and that he has met with success is indicated by the fine farm property he posesses, his tract comprising one hundred and sixty-five acres, situated in Hanover township. This place is improved with a good country residence, substantial barns and outbuildings and the fields, too, have been placed under a high state of cultivation, so that lie annually harvests good crops.


It was in 1892 that Mr. Nethers established a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Susanna Huffman, of Virginia township, Coshocton county, and in the fall of the same year lie purchased and removed to his present farm where they have since made their home. Their union has been blessed with six children, Otto, William, Alfred, John, 011ie and George, all at home.


Mr. Nethers gives his political support to the democratic party and he is identified with the Masons, belonging to New Home lodge, No. 338, at Hanover, He and his estimable wife have a large circle of friends and the hospitality of their pleasant home is freely extended to all.


ROBERT S. McMILLEN.


General farming and stock-raising command the attention of Robert S. McMillen, in Newark township, where his 'birth occurred December 2, 1858, on a farm adjoining the one he now cultivates. His father, John McMillen, was born in Madison township November 15, 1820, and departed this life in Newark township on June 28, 1906. He dealt extensively in stock in connection with general farming and was not only a feeder but also a buyer and shipper and on an average kept on hand two hundred head of cattle. In this line of business he was considered one of the most successful men in the county and was acknowledged to be without a peer in judging the quality of horses, sheep and cattle. When he commenced life for himself he possessed but little, but, being ambitious, he applied himself industriously until he acquired seven hundred acres of high-priced land located near the city. He was a son of Andrew and Elizabeth McMillen, who were natives of Scotland, and was twice married, his first wife being Mary E. Fulton, a native of this county, who passed away on January 3, 1859. They had three children : Martha Jane, wife of W. C. Hall ; Mary Elizabeth; and Robert S. His second marriage was with Mrs. Nancy (Fulton) Showman, a widow, and a sister of his first wife, who passed away in August, 1904, leaving her husband and two children : John W. and Benjamin F., both of this township.


Robert S. McMillen was educated in the district schools of this township and after completing his studies remained on the farm and engaged with his father in stock-raising and general agricultural pursuits. He learned the various phases of stock breeding from his father, who was commonly conceded to be an expert, and as a consequence he is looked upon as an authority in this department of the business. Stock-raising demands most of his attention and while he produces considerable hay and other grains he uses most of such produce in feeding cattle,


362 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


which he makes ready for market and ships to various portions of the state. He cultivates two farms, one consisting of one hundred and three and one-half acres, on which he raises hay and grain and the other containing one hundred and one and one-half acres in Union township, which he uses for grazing purposes. Both farms are in fine condition and thoroughly equipped with all modern conveniences, with which to successfully pursue his work.


In 1900 Mr. McMillen wedded Lida Marple, a native of Chatham, Ohio, and a daughter of Miles and Dollie (McMillen) Marple, both of whom are deceased. Mr. Marple was born January 24, 1827, in Newton township, this county, near Chatham, where he cultivated a farm, containing two hundred acres, until his death, which occurred May 24, 1886. He was a son of David and Margaret (Armstrong) Marple, who were among the early settlers of Newton township, and departed this life on their farm in 1857 and 1862, respectively, after having reared fourteen children, one of whom was Miles Marple, who wedded Dollie McMillen, who was born in Newark township, this county, January 19, 1824, and who passed away November 19, 1868, on the home farm where she had resided since her marriage. She was a daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Wilson) McMillen, the latter born December 28, 1793, while the former was a native of Ireland. Mrs. Robert S. McMillen is one of four children, namely : James D., of Columbus, Ohio; Belle W., wife of Albert M. Smoots, of Washington township; and Henrietta, deceased.


With respect to national issues Mr. McMillen is a republican in politics; but in municipal and state affairs he is non-partisan and reserves the right to cast his vote for the candidates Whom lie deems best qualified to serve in the offices they seek, irrespective of party ties. Mr. McMillen is among the substantial men of the community, is aggressive and industrious and a representative citizen, who has done much in contributing toward the financial worth of the township.




THE NEWARK TRUST COMPANY.


The Newark Trust Company was incorporated April 22, 1903, and began business July 23, 1903. In the short time that has elapsed since its establishment so remarkable has been its career as to attract widespread attention to its management. Making the showing that it has in its infancy—a showing that is at once the wonder, admiration and envy of its coworkers in this field--one is tempted to predict unlimited developments in the future. The past year, which taxed to the utmost almost every financial institution in the country, only served to emphasize the solidity of this bank. The panic did not affect this house or interfere with its operations in any way. All demands were met with cash, there was plenty of money to loan on good securities and the tellers were instructed to cash everything. As a matter of fact, deposits have shown an increase of better than five per cent during the last few months.


The operations of this company cover a general banking business. The statement of condition made in response to the call of the auditor of the state of Ohio, dated August 18, 1908, shows a capital of two hundred thousand dollars,


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surplus of one hundred thousand dollars, deposits of one million, one hundred eighty-two thousand, seven hundred and sixty-eight dollars and total resources of one million, four hundred ninety-four thousand, three hundred and twenty dollars. The following comparative statement of deposits and resources on the same date of each year since it began business makes very interesting reading.


COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF DEPOSITS.



August 18, 1903

August 18, 1904

August 18, 1905

August 18, 1906

August 18, 1907

August 18, 1908

$ 60,226.81

429,497.06

645,235.14

941,468.65

1,028,892.71

1,182,768.74


COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF RESOURCES.




August 18, 1903

August 18, 1904

August 18, 1905

August 18, 1906

August 18, 1907

August 18, 1908

$ 160,322.08

543,392.62

772,184.33

1,087,010.99

1,342,051.56

1,494,320.13



This wonderful growth shows that careful depositors appreciate the strength and conservatism of the Newark Trust Company. In this connection we might mention, as indicative of the many safeguards woven round their depositors, that the company employs one of the best known and most famous firms of certified public accountants in the state of Ohio to examine the books and affairs of the company at times not made known in advance to the officers of the bank.


The officers and directors are : F. P. Kennedy, president; vice presidents, C. C. Metz and W. C. Christian.; secretary and treasurer, W. C. Metz. Directors : William C. Christian, of William Christian & Sons; F. A. Crane, secretary Newark Ice and Cold Storage Company; J. R. Davies, attorney at law ; Roe Emerson, wholesale and retail clothing ; H. S. Fleek, Fleek & Neal, wholesale grocers; J. S. Fulton, of 3. E. Fulton & Company ; A. H. Heisey, president the A. H. Heisey Company ; F. P. Kennedy, president of the Newark Trust Company ; C. C. Metz, of Charles C. Metz & Brother ; William H. Smith, president of the P. Smith Sons Lumber Company ; A. B. Schauweker, of Clouse & Schauweker ; Edward Thomas, treasurer of the James E. Thomas Company; S. F. Van Voorhis, capitalist; A. 3. Wilson, president First National Bank, Utica, Ohio; E. C. Wright, cashier First National Bank, Newark.


The Commercial and Financial World, of New York, speaking of the new building erected by the Newark Trust Company, said : "In point of elegance and completeness it strides far and away from anything of the kind possessed by a city of similar size in the United States. The new steel constructed office building of ten floors is indicative of the pinnacle of perfection which has been reached in modern building construction. It is absolutely fireproof throughout, with hardwood finish, polished floors, corridors and toilet rooms fitted in imported marble, and every improvement and convenience that go to make up the costly modern office buildings of today, and would be a credit to any city priding itself on its elaborate architecture and massive structures.


366 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


"The Newark Trust Company occupies the entire first floor of this building, into which it moved September 2, 1907, from its original location in the Doty House block. New York bankers might well look with envy upon the quarters fitted throughout in imported Italian marble, bronze and mahogany, now occupied by this company, so -commodious, elegant, complete and harmonious are they in every particular. Not one facility is lacking that is necessary to the proper conduct of their business today or could be required in its ultimate development. No expense or pains has been spared that would add to its advantages in point of comfort or beauty. In all the United States cannot be found a more thoroughly or a more splendidly equipped bank. In every place where it has been possible or practicable, metal is utilized in the place of wood, but so cleverly has this feature been carried out, even in the building of the desks, that the eye of the uninitiated is unable to detect it. The details of the interior decoration have been carried out with an elaborateness and consistency that not only bespeaks the possession of great ability and skill on the part of the originator, but an unlimited expenditure of time, pains and money. The color scheme is perfect and carefully followed and a characteristic and very pleasing feature is the recurrence of the company's monogram, a beautifully artistic design, on the walls, in the rugs, on the furniture and utilized in many ways in the general office, the directors' room and the president's private office. The rugs have been especially woven by hand in Austria for the company's use and are in perfect accord, both in color and decoration, with the rest of the furnishings. The whole effect cannot fail to meet the immediate appreciation and commendation of all who have the pleasure of visiting or dealing with this bank. The directors' room and the president's private office are models of appropriateness, convenience and quiet elegance. The company maintains its own private telephone exchange, connecting with the city line, and facilitating speedy communication between departments. In installing their vaults all the work has been utilized to the best advantage and every effort made, known to science, to guard against attacks of fire or burglars. The same might be said of the safe deposit vaults, which constitute a separate department. Here is offered to customers every convenience that can be found in the banks of our large cities.


"Of the Newark Trust Company Mr. F. P. Kennedy, the president, is the moving spirit. That he has given to the management of its affairs the benefit of his large ability, knowledge of financial matters and wise discrimination, is largely due its remarkable success. A man of deliberate and careful judgment, he has displayed in his business career bold initiative, indomitable courage and ceaseless energy combined with absolute integrity. The people of Newark owe him much, for he is mainly responsible for the erection of the new office building of which they are so justly proud, while the patrons of the bank must look to its president as the originator of the exclusive and elegant ideas carried out so successfully in the company's new quarters. Mr. Kennedy is held in unquestioned and high esteem in social and business circles alike.


"As will be seen, the board of directors and officers of this bank are well known and representative business men whose character and ability insure safe and conservative management. 'The history of the five short years of this bank's existence shows steady and continuous advancement; and its conservative methods,


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 367


watchful interests of its patrons and its broad, generous treatment of matters affecting the public welfare, will win for it future prosperity. Newark has many things upon which to congratulate herself, and many foundations upon which to build in the future, but none of these excel in substantial elements the one she has in the Newark Trust Company, which is exerting every effort to advance the interests of the city."


STEPHEN D. PRIEST.


Stephen D. Priest, numbered among the practical, progressive and enterprising farmers of Hanover township, was born in Perry township, Licking county, September 29, 1835. He has therefore passed the seventy-third milestone on life's journey, and with him the years have been characterized by unfaltering diligence and unflagging perseverance. It has thus been through his own efforts that he has won his success, gaining a place among the substantial farmers of his community. His parents, Sanford and Sabitha (Holmes) Priest, were natives of Virginia. The father was born in 1801, and in 1813 accompanied his parents on their removal westward to Ohio, their home being established in Muskingum county. The mother's birth occurred in 1807, and the Holmes family removed to Muskingum county about the time of the arrival there of the Priest family. Thus in the same neighborhood Sanford Priest and Sabitha Holmes were reared, and on attaining adult age they were married in 1829. They located in Hopewell township, Muskingum county, where they remained until 1834, and then came to Licking county, establishing their home in Perry township on a farm where the father resided for more than a half a century. He became one of the best known and most highly respected agriculturists of the community, and his fellow townsmen evidenced their appreciation of his genuine worth and loyalty and citizenship by retaining him in the office of justice of the peace for twenty-one years. He resigned in later life on account of advanced age. Throughout the period of his incumbency he discharged his duties with marked promptness and fidelity, "winning golden honors from the hearts of the people." His life was at all times actuated by high and honorable principles, and he was ever regarded as a man of sterling character. He was for years an elder in the Disciple church, and those who knew him respected him for his fidelity to every manly principle. He died January 25, 1885, while his wife passed away June 18, 1889.


On the home farm Stephen D. Priest spent his boyhood and youth. The dwelling of the family was built of logs, and his education was acquired in one of the old-time log schoolhouses, with a fireplace extending on one entire side of the room. The building was equipped with slab benches, and the writing desks were made of a board supported on pins driven into the logs around the room. There was a puncheon floor and tiny windows, and there was little taught beyond the three R's, although some instruction was given in grammar and geography. The mother spun and wove all of the material for clothing, and the father and sons worked in the fields, converting the wild prairie into richly cultivated tracts of land. Mr. Priest remained at home until about twenty-five years of age, and


368 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


in the spring of 18.61 he and his brother, Artemus W. Priest, purchased a farm in Perry township to which they removed. There they began their career as independent farmers. For two years they operated this place conjointly, and the brother then withdrew and Mr. Priest took over the farm and assumed their joint obligations. His financial burdens were very heavy at that time, for, added to the sum necessary for the purchase of the farm and the money needed in its development, he also had to make payment in order to meet the draft which was made during the period of the Civil war. At times it almost seemed impossible to bear the load that he was carrying, but he persevered and with grim determination and energy continued his labors until, in the course of time, the difficulties and obstacles were overcome, and he made considerable progress on the highroad to prosperity. In 1879 he removed to a farm in Madison township and engaged in the dairy business. At that time he had an indebtedness of four thousand dollars, but his characteristic energy enabled him to continue where many a man of less resolute purpose would have given up. In 1886 he purchased at the assignee sale of the Leonard Strump farm one hundred and twenty-seven and a half acres of land, and four years later he purchased at sheriff's sale one hundred and sixty-one acres of the William Barrick farm, upon which he now resides. He removed to this in 1894 and is now numbered among the substantial agriculturists of Hanover township, owning two hundred and seventy-one acres of rich and productive land in his home place. He has added modern improvements and equipment, has new machinery, well kept fences, and substantial buildings, and his farm in all of its departments indicates the careful supervision of a practical, progressive owner.


On the 29th of November, 1863, Mr. Priest was married to Miss Jane Porter, of Fallsburg township, Licking county, and unto them were born three children, but only one is now living, Homer C., who is operating his father's farm. On the 21st of May, 189], the wife and mother died, and on the 15th of January, 1894, Mr. Priest wedded Miss Rebecca Porter, a cousin of his former wife. His political allegiance is given to the republican party, and for one term he served as township trustee, but otherwise has neither held nor desired public office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. While he has confronted many difficulties as the years have gone by, he has displayed that unabating energy which will in time overcome seemingly unsurmountable obstacles, and he is today numbered among the prosperous agriculturists of the community, who deserves the respect, good will and confidence of his fellowmen by reason of the honorable principles he has ever followed in his business.




CHARLES H. KIBLER.


Charles H. Kibler was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, on the 11th day of February, 1827. At the age of about five years the family moved to Hillsboro, Ohio, where he was reared. Having been admitted to the bar, he came to Newark in 1851, where he has since lived.


In October, 1861, he was appointed a second lieutenant in the Seventy-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He raised a company of that regiment, called Com-


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pany D, and in January, 1862, was commissioned captain of that company. He served as captain until September, 1863, when he was appointed by President Lincoln as assistant adjutant general, with the rank of captain, and was assigned to the First Brigade of the First Division of the Fifteenth Army Corps, under General W. T. Sherman as corps commander. He continued in the service until August 1, 1864. During his connection with the army he took part in the important engagements of Fort Dolenson, Shiloh and the siege of Vicksburg, Missionary Ridge, Ringgold and in the Atlanta campaign.


On the 21st of February, 1854, Mr. Kibler was united in marriage to Mary .E., daughter of Dr. Benjamin W. Brice. for many years a physician of Newark. Four children were born unto them : Annie K. Neal, the wife of William W. Neal; Edward, an attorney of Newark; Charles, who is engaged in business in Denver, Colorado ; and Frank, in business at Salt Lake City, Utah. Mrs. Kibler died August 9, 1896.


Since August, 1864, Mr. Kibler has been actively engaged in the practice of law and his name for years has appeared in connection with all the important litigation and legal business of the county of Licking. He has never sought political preferment, though he has occupied a number of local offices. In 1857-8 he was mayor of Newark. In 1895 he was elected as one of the judges of the circuit court in the fifth circuit of Ohio and served as such for about fifteen months. In 1907 he retired from the law, after more than a half century of active practice, and now, at the age of eighty-two years, is still living in the enjoyment of fair health.


DAVID WATKINS.


David Watkins, devoting his time and energies to the development and improvement of a farm of one hundred acres in Granville township, was born at Goose Pond, near Newark, in Newark township, January 18, 1854. In February, 1858, his parents removed to the farm in Granville township, upon which he has since resided. His father, John Watkins, a native of the north of Wales, arrived in this county about 1845. He made millstones as a trade, but because of ill health abandoned that work and turned his attention to farming. As stated, he removed from the farm in Newark township to the old homestead in Granville township in February, 1858. In the previous year he had purchased the property from Joseph Weeks, who had become the owner of that place in 1815. The father died in 1860 and his son David, in 1876, bought out the other heirs and it has since been in the possession of our subject. John Watkins was twice married and by the first union had three children. After losing his first wife he wedded Rachael Richards, who was born in South Wales, September 15, 1829, and died in 1873. She came to the United States about 1852, located in Licking county and was married in Newark. The death of John Watkins occurred in 1860, when he was forty-five years of age, and his wife afterward married again and had one child by that union. The father's children by his first wife were : Mary Ann, the wife of Richard Beeny, of Newton township ; Watkin Maurice, of Alexandria; and John Hubert, a twin brother of Watkin Maurice and a resident of Newark township.


372 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


Unto John and Rachael (Richards) Watkins there were born five children: Elizabeth, the wife of Humphrey Jones, of Newark; David; Richard, who was a twin brother of David and died at the age of thirteen months; Richard, the second of the name, also deceased; and Emma, the wife of David Evans of Newark. After losing her first husband the mother of this family became the wife of Joseph Hynus and they had one child, Mary, now the deceased wife of Albert Sikes.


Brought to his present home at the age of four years, David Watkins was here reared and early became familiar with the tasks of developing the fields and harvesting the crops. He pursued his education in the public schools and when not busy with his text-books gave his attention to farm :work. When his education was completed he concentrated his energies upon this line of work and now carries on general farming and stock-raising, but makes a specialty of marketing fruit and vegetables, his products being of high grade and flavor, so that he finds a ready sale.


Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Watkins was married in June, 1874, to Miss Mary Davis, who was born in Newark, September 15, 1853, and is a daughter of Joshua Davis. Her parents were natives of South Wales and were married there. Upon coming to the United States they settled in Newark and died when their daughter was quite young. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Watkins have been born six children : Anna, the wife of Fred Hobart, of Granville township ; Bertha, the wife of R. W. Howard, of Newark; Effie, the wife of Stanley Nethers, of Newton township; John David, who died at the age of eleven years; Bessie, a teacher, at home; and Richard W., who is also teaching and lives with his parents.


Mr. Watkins gives his political support to the republican party for he deems its principles most conducive to good government. For twelve years he served as a director of schools and for six years, from 1894 until 1900, as township trustee. Fraternally he is connected with Myrtle lodge, I. 0. 0. F., of Granville, and belongs to the Welsh Congregational church of that village. His influence is always on the side of improvement, reform and progress and he finds time to assist in public improvement, although he is busily occupied with his farm interests. His place is the site of one of the ancient earthworks of the prehistoric race that occupied this section of the country. This mound seems to partake somewhat of the nature of a fort, with a ditch on the outside, and is a source of interest to all lovers of ethnology and history.


JOSHUA DEAN SIMKINS.


Joshua Dean Simkins has been superintendent of the schools of Newark since 1904, and in his life work in professional lines has embodied the spirit of Kant who said that, "The object of education is to train each individual to reach the highest perfection possible for him." The ideals which he has held before teachers and pupils have prompted them to renewed effort, bringing gratifying results. Professor Simkins was born in Fallsburg, Licking county, Ohio, March 29, 1856, a son of Benoni and Mary Ellen (Marriott) Simkins, natives of Pennsyvania and


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 373


Licking county, Ohio, respectively. The paternal grandfather, Dennis Simkins, came from Pennsylvania to this county. about 1838 and settled on a farm near Fallsburg, where he spent his remaining days. The maternal grandfather, Joshua Marriott, came from New Jersey to Licking county about 1820 and also took up his abode on a farm which he converted into rich and productive fields. Both families were pioneers of the county and met the usual hardships and difficulties that most people experience in the early days when the wilderness is being converted into a habitable and attractive region.


Benoni Simkins was reared to the occupation of the farm amid the wild scenes and environments of frontier life, and after attaining his majority continued to carry on general agricultural pursuits for a number of years. He also learned and followed the blacksmith's trade, but is now living retired, having disposed of his farm, while lie makes his home in Newark. His life has been one of intense and well directed activity and thus he gained the substantial reward of labor, which enables him at the present time to enjoy a well-earned rest.


Professor Simkins, whose name introduces this review, spent his youth on the old homestead, working in the fields through the summer seasons and then as fall approached resuming his education as a district school pupil. Later he attended the Martinsburg Academy for a time, and eventually was graduated from the National Normal University, at Lebanon, Ohio, with the degree of Bachelor of Science. His professional training was received in the Iowa State University, at Iowa City, where he won the Bachelor of Law degree upon his graduation with the class of 1881. The Master's degree was conferred upon him by the Ohio University, at Athens, Ohio, in 1904, being a recognition of his scholarly attainments and successful labors as an educator. In 1881 he was admitted to practice before the supreme court of Iowa and the United States circuit and district courts for that state. He has never practiced law, however, but the training for the profession, developing analytical ability and the power of logical, discriminating thought, has been of marked benefit to him in other professional labors.


For five years Professor Simkins was a teacher in the country schools of Licking county, receiving eighteen dollars per month in compensation for his services when he first took up this work. His salary was raised each term, however, and on leaving the rural schools he taught in the Newcastle schools, in Coshocton county, Ohio, for two years-1882 and 1883. In the latter year he accepted a call as superintendent of schools at Centerburg, Knox county, Ohio, at a salary of sixty-five dollars per month, and there remained for five years, during which time his salary was increased to one hundred dollars per month. While thus engaged he organized the high school. He has always been interested in promoting the work, which has claimed his attention and in introducing higher standards, not only in methods of instruction but in the labor by the pupils also. In 1889 he went to St. Marys, Auglaize county, Ohio, as superintendent of schools at a salary of one thousand dollars per year, which, however, was increased to eighteen hundred dollars per year. He remained in that position for fifteen years and under his guidance the schools made rapid and substantial progress. He was reelected for two years more, but resigned the position to come to Newark in 1904 as superintendent of the schools of this city, where he has since remained. He has reorganized the school system here, promoting -the work in accordance with the modern ideals of teaching, and now has under his control about one hundred


374 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


and eight teachers in all the different grades, with a total attendance of about four thousand pupils. He has made a great many changes in the educational system here and the high school has doubled its attendance under his administration. He has the ability to stimulate the interest of his pupils in the work and is always studying out new plans and methods which would prove of practical utility in furthering the interests of the schools. He stands today as one of the most prominent and capable educators of central Ohio, his constantly expanding powers having brought him to an enviable position in educational circles. He has been city, county and state school examiner. At present writing he is president of the Central Ohio Teachers' association, one of the largest in the United States, and chairman of the executive committee of the Ohio State Teachers' association. In 1880 he was nominated by the democratic party for state school commissioner, but failed of election with the rest of his ticket.


On the 3d of July, 1883, Professor Simkins was married to Miss Pauline Brown, a native of West Bedford, Coshocton county, Ohio, and they have two sons, Howard Dana and Don Carlton. Mrs. Simkins is noted as being one of the best readers of central Ohio, is, moreover, a lover of music and art, and displays much ability in those directions, having already painted over three hundred pictures. Politically, Professor Simkins is a democrat and in his religious faith he and his wife are Methodists. A visit to his library and a chat with him in his pleasant home give at once an indication of his scholarly attainments and broad general knowledge. Advancement has been the keynote of his life work, and while instructing others he has made steady progress in intellectual fields, so that association with him means expansion and elevation.




GEORGE W. STALTER.


George W. Stalter, one of the wealthiest farmers of Etna township, his enterprise and industry having added considerably to the agricultural and financial worth of this part of the county, is a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, where his birth occurred December 24, 1831, his parents having been John and Magdalena (Knitle) Stalter. The father, a native of Pennsylvania, removed to Allen county, Ohio, when his son George was about six years of age. There the father purchased two hundred acres of land, one-half of which was covered with excellent timber, and upon that place he pursued general agriculture until he departed this life. His wife has also passed away. In their family were nine children, namely : Delilah, Israel, Mary, George W., Katherine, Sarah, Samuel, Rebecca, and John.


The farm upon which George W. Stalter spent his boyhood days was located about six miles west of Lima, Ohio, and on the home place he assisted his father in the daily routine of agricultural life, in the meantime availing himself of the educational advantages afforded by the neighboring schools. He remained on his father's farm until he was twenty-six years of age when he came to this township, where he has since resided, cultivating one hundred and thirty-eight acres of land located on the National' pike, two and one-half miles west of Etna. He also owns a sixty-five acre farm about a half mile west of that place; another containing


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 377


seventy-one and a half acres and one containing thirty acres, both situated about a half mile north of Etna ; and still another containing ninety-seven and a half acres which lies about one-fourth mile south of Wagram. The entire tract of land which he has under cultivation, embracing some four hundred acres, is all in this township. Mr. Stalter had little of this world's goods when he started out in life and his prosperity is due to the persevering efforts and careful management of himself and wife. By practical economy and industry they have, from year to year, laid by means which enabled them to gradually increase their acreage and thereby add to their prosperity. General farming and stock raising have always commanded the attention of Mr. Stalter and he has been so successful that now in his latter days he can afford to retire from active life and enjoy the comforts of his long season of honest toil.


On February 18, 1858, Mr. Stalter wedded Lydia Blauser, a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, where she was born December 26, 1837, and a daughter of. Daniel and Phoebe (Grimm) Blauser, who, about the year 1845, came to this township, where they entered a tract of land and pursued agricultural pursuits until they entered into rest, the Blauser family having come to Fairfield county, from Virginia, at an early day. To Mr. and Mrs. Stalter have been born: Phoebe Ann, who died in infancy; James Albert, whose birth occurred here August 15, 1862; Delilah Katherine, who was born here January 23, 1865, and entered into rest October 28, two years later; Adeline, who departed this life in her third year; John William Henry, whose birth occurred June 22, 1870, and who manages the home farm, his wife being Florence H. (Weaver) Stalter, a daughter of Absalom Weaver, of Fairfield county, the couple having three daughters : Lottie Laura, Lydia Mary and Lucretia Florence; and a daughter who passed away in infancy.


The democratic party has always commanded the allegiance of Mr. Stalter, and since casting his first vote he has always been stanch in his support of its candidates. In local affairs he has always taken a deep interest, favoring all measures devised for the general improvement of the community, and for several years served efficiently as a member of the school board. His long life has always been in obedience to the dictates of a high standard of morals and his upright life and conversation together with his industry and enterprise have always enabled him to win the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens.


DR. D. H. MILLER, SR.


Dependent entirely upon his own resources from the age of twelve years, Dr. Miller early learned the valuable lessons of life and when but a boy he realized the fact that any obstacle can be overcome by persistent and honorable effort, and it has been through that means that he has gradually worked his way upward until he stands today among the prominent and honored citizens and successful medical practitioners of Newark. His birth occurred in Perry township, Licking county, October 14, 1855, and he represents one of the old families of the state. His paternal grandparents removed from Pennsylvania to Muskingum county at an


378 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


early date and there spent the remainder of their lives., the grandfather, George Miller, passing away at the very venerable age of ninety-six years. In early manhood he had married Miss Infield, an English woman, and she reached the extreme old age of ninety-four years.


Their son, Joseph Miller, was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania March 27, 1809, and in 1827, when a young man of eighteen years, came to Licking county, although he had previously accompanied his parents on their removal to Muskingum county. He was a blacksmith by trade and engaged in shoeing horses from the age of sixteen to the age of seventy-eight years. He then retired from active business life and died in 1891 at the age of 83 years. He married Elizabeth Custer, who was born at Deerfield, Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio with her parents when two years of age. The Custers were of German descent, the founder of, the family in America being Paul Custer. The grandfather married Sarah Ball, a sister of Mary Ball, the mother of George Washington. The great grandfather was George Custer and his son, Jacob Custer, was the grandfather of Dr. Miller. The latter's daughter, Elizabeth Custer, who became Mrs. Joseph Miller, was born May 9, 1813, and died November 2, 1888. She was an own cousin of General Custer of Indian war fame. Her father, Jacob Custer, came to Licking county in the latter parr; of the eighteenth century, arriving March 13, 1782. He was accidentally killed when fifty-one years of age, while his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth (Letherman) Custer, survived for some time.


Dr. Miller was educated in the country schools of Licking county and worked on the farm from the age of twelve years through the summer months, while the winter seasons were devoted to study. Carefully and thoroughly improving his opportunities for intellectual advancement, he was soon able to secure a teacher's certificate and- engaged in teaching in Licking and Muskingum counties for eight years. He then attended the Normal School at Utica, Ohio, from 1876 until 1879, having provided the expense of his education and college courses by his own labor. In fact, he has never had a dollar given him since he was twelve years of age, and whatever success he has enjoyed is due entirely to his diligence and determination. Imbued with a laudable ambition he extended his efforts to those lines demanding intellectual activity and took up the study of medicine in 1879, reading under the direction of Dr. W. R. Wallace of Perryton, while later he continued his studies with Dr. J. C. Wintermute, of Salina, Ohio, as his preceptor. He continued teaching school while reading medicine in order to provide for his own maintenance and, at length, as the result of his careful expenditure, he was able to enter the Columbus Medical College and spent two years in study in that institution, from which he was graduated in 1884. Qualifying for practice, he spent six months in Perryton and then located at Alexandria, Licking county, where lie remained for ten years. Seeking the still broader field offered by the city he came to Newark in 1894 and has been in practice here continually since, being accorded a liberal patronage, as his professional power has been demonstrated in the excellent results that have followed his efforts to check disease and restore health.


In 1880 Dr. Miller was married to Miss Cora Fleming, a native of Licking county and a daughter of H. A. and Catherine (Wintermute) Fleming. They have four children: Dalton H., who is a graduate of the Baltimore Medical College of the class of 1903 and is now practicing with his father; Lillian; Loreno; and


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Elizabeth, all at home. They lost a son, Ira, who died in 1890 when ten and a half months old. Dr. Miller belongs to the Masonic fraternity and has taken the degrees of the chapter and council. He is also connected, with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Methodist Episcopal church—associations which indicate much of the character of his interests and the principles that govern his conduct. He is a member of the Licking County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical association. His life has ever been honorable and upright, characterized by an honest hatred of all sham and pre tense, while in every judgment of his mind he exhibits strong common sense. He is a man of high moral character, as well as of great professional skill, and his history cannot fail to prove of interest to many of the readers of this volume.


JACOB C. MORRISON.


Jacob C. Morrison, a well-to-do and substantial agriculturist of Madison township, owning four hundred and seventy-six acres of land, is a public-spirited man, exerting a wide influence in the community in which he makes his home. He is a native son of the Buckeye state, born in Morgan county, November 22, 1849, a son of Joseph and Mary Ann (Cherry) Morrison, the former a native of Virginia, while the latter was born in Muskingum county, Ohio. The father was a youth of seventeen or eighteen years when. he removed from the south to Muskingum county, and it was here that he met and married Miss Cherry. After spending several years in that county he took up his abode in Morgan county, this state, where he also remained for some time, but subsequently returned to Muskingum county, there making his home until after the close of the Civil war, when he came to Licking county and located on a farm in Franklin township. He followed farming as a life work and became the owner of one hundred and seventy-four acres of valuable land in Franklin township, on which he made his home up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1897, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-seven years. He was a democrat in his political views and for several years served as trustee of Franklin township, while his religious. faith was indicated by his membership in the Christian Union church. He was a man of much influence in his locality and did all in his power to promote the best interests of his community. The mother still survives at the advanced age of eighty-eight years and makes her home on the farm in Franklin township.


Jacob C. Morrison was reared under the parental roof and acquired his education in the common schools. He was early trained to the duties of farm life, assisting his father from the time he was old enough to follow the plow until he established a home of his own in 1872 by his marriage to Miss Cordelia Johnson, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Ann (McFarland) Johnson, of Bowling. Green township, but who later removed to Illinois.


Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Morrison took up their abode upon a rented farm in Madison township, which he operated for seven years. During this time he raised good crops and carefully managed his business affairs, so that he acquired a competency that justified him in making a purchase of land in Han-


380 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


over township. He removed to this place and as the years passed added to his possessions until his farm now embraces two hundred and seventy acres in Hanover township and two hundred and six acres in Madison township, making altogether four hundred and seventy-six acres in one body. He made his home on the former tract until 1902, in which year he purchased the land in Madison township, to which he removed and where he has since made his home. He has improved the property with a good residence and substantial buildings and now has one of the most valuable farms in Licking county. He leads a busy and active life, but each year his efforts are rewarded with abundant crops.


The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Morrison has been blessed with three children: Eva, the wife of John Wickham, a resident of Newark ; George, at home; and Jesse Floyd, a high-school student in Newark. A democrat in principle and practice, Mr. Morrison has always taken a lively interest in public affairs. In 1904 he was nominee on the democratic ticket for infirmary director, but that year the entire democratic ticket met defeat. -He is at present a member of the board of directors of the Agricultural Society of Licking county. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America. Starting out in life without capital he, however, possesses that strong, forceful and determined character which has enabled hint to push his way forward until he is one of the wealthy landowners of Licking county. Not only has the acquirement of wealth claimed his time and attention, for his energy has often been at the service of his community, whereby he has won the respect and good will of those among whom he lives and labors.





JOSEPH DAVIS.


Joseph Davis, a well known farmer of Licking township, who comes of a family the members of which were among the early pioneers of this part of the county, was born near Jacksontown, May 9, 1832, his grandfather, Samuel Davis, whose birth occurred October 15, 1768, having come here by wagon in the early days from Virginia, when the country was in a primitive state. He built a large two-story log house, which class of structure was out of the ordinary in those times, and engaged in general farming until his death in 1851. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary Stone, by whom he had five children, namely : Sarah, whose birth occurred April 2, 1792; James, who was born March 4, 1798; Rhoda, born September 7, 1800; and Elizabeth and Rebecca, twins, who entered this life September 21, 1809.


James Davis, father of the subject of this review, was born in Virginia and came to this county with his parents in 1806, locating near Homers Mills, and near the present Newark city waterworks. A year later they removed to a farm a mile west of Jacksontown on the national pike, where they remained for several years. After James Davis was united in marriage to Susan Grove he located on the farm where the birth of Joseph Davis occurred, from which place he subsequently removed to the national road, where he erected a brick house which he occupied until his death and which is still in good condition, being occupied by the grand-


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 383


son. This residence is an old landmark, considered one of the best homes in the county. He owned three hundred and forty acres of land which he had highly improved and kept continually under cultivation. A man of great business ability, he was wide-awake to his own interests and yet honest in all his dealings, and as an instance of his foresight it may be related that with two of his neighbors he was at the Licking county courthouse paying taxes, when the cashier remarked that there was a quarter section in Licking township unclaimed, upon which Mr. Davis, deciding that he had as much right to it as anyone else, at once made up his mind to gain possession of the tract. Immediately making ready for the journey, without breaking the secret to those about him he started for the land office at Chillicothe on foot at three o'clock Sunday morning, and finally arrived at that place, secured possession of the land and was descending the courthouse steps when the two neighbors, Thomas Baird and William Harris, with whom he was standing when the cashier spoke of the land, came in from different directions on horseback and were crestfallen upon receiving information from Mr. Davis that the unclaimed quarter section was now his. He was a democrat who revered the principles of his party and did all in his power to secure the election of its candidates. He was of a highly religious turn of mind and was an active member of the primitive Baptist church, deeming his religious duties above all others. Susan Grove, mother of our subject, was a native of Rockingham county, Virginia, born August 10, 1800, and died in this county in 1891. She reared a family of nine children, namely : John, Samuel, Sarah, Nancy and Jackson, all of whom are deceased; Joseph; George, an agriculturist of Hebron, Ohio ; Rebecca ; and Oliver, deceased.


Joseph Davis had no educational advantages beyond those afforded him in the old log schoolhouse near the farm, but being inspired by a thirst for learning he was a great reader and after completing his studies perused many volumes from which he gleaned knowledge of various things, so that he is now accounted one of the best read men in this part of the county. He remained at home assisting in the duties of the farm until he was twenty-six years of age, when he began farming on an . adjoining tract of land which he still owns. He has met with such success as to enable him to add to his land from time to time until he now possesses five hundred acres in one tract, all of which is highly improved and on which stands three fine dwelling houses, the one which he occupies being one of the finest and largest homes in the county. He engages in general husbandry, producing crops of hay and the various grains, and at the same time pays some attention to stock-raising.


On September 9, 1858, Mr. Davis was united in marriage to Miss Helen Sutton, a native of this county, by whom he has had three children, namely : Charles Franklin, who operates a farm adjoining that of his father; James Perry, who is in business in Newark ; and Homer Jury, a practicing physician and surgeon of Newark, Ohio, who was graduated from Rush Medical College and Cook County Hospital, of Chicago. The democratic party has always received the vote of Mr. Davis, who has interested himself in local politics, as well as state and national. He has served as one of the most efficient members of the school board, and at one time during his incumbency, when there was only fifty dollars in the school treasury, and he was therefore unable to secure a teacher his wife started


384 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


out in a buggy and finally persuaded a woman to take the position by boarding her free, and thus the situation was relieved. Mr. Davis for many years also served as a trustee of the township and has always been deeply concerned in the welfare of the immediate community. He holds membership in the Primitive Baptist church, the services of which his wife also attends, and 'in this body he has for many years officiated in I he capacity of deacon. Mr. Davis is a good man whose long life of uprightness has been of great benefit to the community, and he is looked upon by all his neighbors as a man deserving of the highest respect.


THOMAS M. JONES.


Thomas M. Jones was born in Knox county, Ohio, on the 15th of March, 1842, his parents being Isaiah and Belinda (Bell) Jones. His father, whose birth occurred in Wooster, Wayne county, Ohio, June 15, 1816, came to Licking county in 1847, purchasing a farm which is now within the city limits of Newark. He also bought the land where the city cemetery is now located, selling the same for forty dollars per acre. In 1832 the grandfather of our subject bought the land on which the Children's Home now stands, which was sold to the county by the grandson in 1883. In politics he was a stalwart advocate of the democracy. He passed away on the 2d of August, 1901, in the faith of the Church of the Disciples of Christ, having been a minister of the gospel from the time he was eighteen years old. II is demise was deeply and widely mourned. His wife, whose birth occurred in Knox county, Ohio, was called to her nal rest on the 17th of July, 1875. -Unto this worthy couple were born five ildren, namely: Benjamin E., who is deceased; Thomas M., of this review ; B. I., a resident of Granville, Ohio; Lillie B., the deceased wife of Dr. Kiel; and Laura, who has also passed away.


Thomas M. Jones was given excellent educational advantages in his youth and remained at home until he had attained the age of twenty-one years. Subsequently he took charge of one of his father's farms in Holmes county, Ohio, there residing for twenty years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Licking county and has lived here continuously to the present time. His holdings now comprise one hundred acres in Granville township, one hundred and forty acres in Harrison township, one hundred and sixty-seven and a fourth acres in Madison township, six acres on the edge of the city, two acres on Granville street, a residence on Eastern avenue, another dwelling on Allen street and the block on which he makes his home. He is well known throughout the county as an extensive land owner and substantial, upright citizen, whose aid and influence are ever given for the material, intellectual, political and moral development of the community.


Mr. Jones has been married twice. His first union was with Miss Samantha McCullough, of Holmes county, Ohio, who only lived for fifteen months after her marriage. In February, 1868, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Emma F. Roe, whose birth occurred in Madison township, Licking county, September 1, 1849. Her parents, Dr. Thomas H. and. Ellen Roe, were natives of England and had a


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 385


family of six children. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Jones have been born four children, as follows : Nellie Bell, born June 21, 1869, who is deceased; Benjamin B., whose natal day was January 14, 1871; Daisy, born April 27, 1875, who is the wife of C. W. Herman, of this county ; and Thomas Franklin, born July 30, 1877, who is at home.


Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Jones has given his political allegiance to the democracy and has taken an active and helpful interest in public affairs. For twelve years he capably served in the position of trustee and has also acted as president of the school board. In his fraternal relations he is a Mason, is a past commander, past high priest and past master and has filled all of the chairs. Both he and his wife are devoted members of the Church of the Disciples of Christ, and they have gained an extensive circle of friends during the long period of their residence in this county, their genuine personal worth commending them to the confidence and esteem of all with whom they have come in contact.


JOSEPH H. ORR.


Joseph H. Orr, who devotes his energy to general farming and stocking raising in Newark township, this county, is a native of Linnville, his birth having occurred October 6, 1852, and a son of William and Jane (Smith) Orr, natives of Bowling Green township, this county. and New Jersey, respectively, she having come here at an early date and resided with an uncle until she was united in marriage. The elder Mr. Orr was a son of Joseph Orr, who was among the early settlers of Bowling Green township, having located on a farm near Linnville, where he lived to a ripe old age and reared the following children : Isaac, George, Samuel, Albert, William, Harvey, Sarah, Elizabeth, Susan and James. William Orr, father of the subject of this review, served for twenty-five years as postmaster and being a broom maker by trade he followed that occupation, during the great part of his early life. He passed away in Linnville, where his wife also entered into rest. They reared a family of eight children, namely : Joseph H.; William, deceased; Henry, a resident of this county ; Thomas, who lives in Franklin township; Del Philips, of Glennford, this county ; Tola Cooperrider, of Franklin township; Jessie Osborne, also a resident of that township ; and Hattie Frush, who lives in Linnville.



Joseph H. Orr resided on his father's farm near Linnville until he was thirteen years of age, in the meantime availing himself of the educational advantages of the village schools and assisting in the daily routine of the farm, at which period of his life he repaired to Perry county to reside with an uncle, George Orr, with whom he remained until he was twenty-one years of age. Upon his marriage he removed with his wife's parents to Glennford and remained there until six years ago when he came to this township and purchased one hundred and thirty-five acres of land, all of which is highly improved and provided with substantial buildings, Mr. Orr having built a number of them and also made considerable necessary repairs upon the residence. The property is situated three


386 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


and a half miles west of the courthouse on the Union Station road and here he successfully pursues general farming and stock feeding. While he was a resident of Perry county, he operated a stone quarry which afforded excellent material used in the manufacture of glass, large quantities of which he shipped to Columbus, Ohio, and also to Newark and, at the same time, he was associated with the general merchandise business in Glennford.


In 1873 Mr. Orr wedded Emma Swinehart, a native of Hopewell township, Perry county, born June 2, 1854, and a daughter of Peter and Sophia (Anspaugh) Swinehart, her father having served for forty years as justice of the peace and for two terms as county commissioner. In his family were three sons and eight daughters. To Mr. and Mrs. Orr were born: Scott, a shoe merchant of Newark; Daisy, who became the wife of Murray Cooperrider, the couple, with their son Wayne, residing in Glennford; Grover; and Mont, who resides at home. Mr. Orr has been loyal to the democratic party all his life and has served the township in many useful offices, now performing the duties of trustee, while for a number of years he officiated in the capacity of justice of the peace. While in Perry county he was the township constable and for fifteen years central committeeman. He and the members of his family belong to the Lutheran church in Newark and Mr. Orr, being a man of high morals and noble purpose, who has thus far passed his life without being involved in law with any of his neighbors, having rather the reputation of being a peacemaker, well deserves credit as one of the township's most influential and substantial citizens.




JOSIAH McKINNEY.


Josiah McKinney, a substantial citizen and retired agriculturist of Licking county, was born on the farm where he still resides, in Newton township, on the 25th of February, 1838. His parents were Joseph and Elizabeth (Hopper) McKinney, the former born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in 1800, while the latter's birth occurred in Virginia, December 8, 1809. The year 1814 witcKinneye arrival of Joseph MIVIcKinney in this county and subsequently he purchased the farm which is now the home of our subject, also conducting a whiskey still here for several years. He continued a resident of this county until the time of his demise, July, 1867, and the community mourned the loss of one of its worthy and respected early settlers. His wife, who at an early day accompanied her parents on their removal to Licking county, was called to her final rest on the 9th of May, 1895. Their family numbered eight children, the record of whom is as follows : Rachel, who is deceased ; James and John, residents of Newton township; William and Martha, both of whom have passed away; Josiah, of this review; Sarah, the wife of Cyrus Marple, o Newton township ; and Frank.


In the public schools Josiah McKinney acquired a good practical education and remained under the parental roof until twenty-two years of age, when he went to Idaho and engaged in mining in the west. After having lived in that state two and a half years he returned to his native county and made his home with his father until the latter's death, when he took charge of the old homestead farm and


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 389


has since continued to reside thereon. In addition to the work of general farming he made a specialty of raising and feeding stock and that his efforts in both branches were attended with gratifying success is indicated by the fact that he accumulated the handsome competence which now enables him to live retired without further recourse to labor. His holdings embrace five hundred and sixty-eight acres of valuable land in Licking county and twelve hundred and forty acres in New Mexico, and he is numbered among the most prosperous and influential citizens of his community.


On the 26th of May, 1875, Mr. McKinney was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Christine Scarbrough, who was one of a family of four children, her birth occurring in Muskingum county, Ohio, in 1854. By this union there were four children, namely : Clinton S., a resident of this county ; Elizabeth, the wife of Carry Bricker, of Newark ; Edgar, at home; and one who died in infancy. July 1, 1900, Mr. McKinney was called upon to mourn the loss of his estimable wife, her remains being interred in the Newark cemetery.


In his political views Mr. McKinney is a stalwart democrat and has taken an active and helpful interest in public affairs, having served as trustee, treasurer and school director. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church, the teachings of which find exemplification in his daily life. Practically his entire life, covering more than the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, has been spent in this locality and no history of Licking county would be complete without extended mention of this honored native son. Moreover, throughout this long period, he has been an interested witness as well as active participant in the work of development, that has transformed this section of the state from a pioneer district into a rich agricultural region, in which are to be found all the evidences of our modern civilization.


SAMUEL JONES PHILIPPS.


The history of the Philipps family constitutes an important chapter in the annals of Licking county, for Thomas Philipps, the great-grandfather of Samuel Jones Philipps, was one of the two founders of the Welsh settlement in this locality, since which time representatives of the name have born a conspicuously helpful part in the development and progress of this portion of the state. About 1796 what was known as the original Philipps purchase was made. Thomas Philipps was associated with Theophilus Reese, these two gentlemen having come from Wales with their families in 1796. They first located at Beulah, near Ebensburg, Cambria county, Pennsylvania. Here they purchased two thousand acres of land in Granville township, which originally constituted what was known as Welsh Hills. This was at the beginning of the nineteenth century in 1802 but they did not locate on their property until 1809. Thomas Philipps took the north half of the two thousand acres and spent the remainder of his days here. He reared a large family and many of his descendants are found within the county today. His name was originally spelled Phillips, but at the time of his marriage to Miss Mary Philipps, of Pembrokeshire, South Wales, he adopted the spelling of her surname. She was a sister of Erasmus Philipps, who


390 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


was head counselor of the king's bench, an office equivalent to that of chief justice of the United States. The death of Thomas Philipps, the founder of the family in America, occurred May 20, 1813, when he was seventy-two years of age.


Samuel J. Philipps, the grandfather of him whose name introduces this record, was born in South Wales and died at Newark, March 2, 1854, at the age of seventy-six years and six months. He and one of his brothers were seized on board a ship by the English press gang to put them in the engineer service, but they were not compelled to go, owing to the fact that their mother was a sister of Erasmus Philipps, who had much influence in England. Samuel J. Philipps reared a large family. namely : Thomas; John, who died of cholera in 1832; Mary; Samuel G., the father of our subject; Erasmus, well known as a school teacher many years ago; Ann; Ben; Lydia ; Washington; Lucretia; and Sallie.


Samuel Griffith Philipps, father of Samuel Jones Philipps, was born in Beulah, .Pennsylvania, November 17, 1806, and in 1809 was brought by his family to Licking county. After reaching years of maturity he purchased a farm in McKean township, near the original Philipps purchase, and lived on the place until some years after his wife's death, when he moved to the farm now owned by his son, Samuel J., where his death occurred December 26, 1899. In his younger days he was a teacher, and in 1855 went to Kansas, where he helped make government surveys. About 1830 he married Susannah Reily, who was born in Tilton Fort, Jefferson county, Ohio, May 23, 1807, and in 1808 came with her parents to Newark. Her death occurred here September .22, 1893. She was a daughter of Jacob and Sallie (Tilton) Reily, the former a native of Delaware, while the latter was the first white child born in the state of Ohio. She was born in Tilton Fort, April 2, 1790, and died in Newark. Her brother, John Tilton, was killed and scalped by the Indians. Unto the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Griffith Philipps were born eight children : Sarah, the wife of David D. Jones, of Morrow county, Ohio; Lydia, who died at the age of twelve years; Priscilla, the deceased wife of E. L. Rose; Martha, the wife of S. J. White, of Newark ; Victoria, the deceased wife of Absalom Harris ; Nellie, the wife of J. G. Frederick; Samuel J.; and Thomas W., who was prosecuting attorney of Licking county at the time of his death in 1902.


Samuel Jones Philipps was born in a little log house in McKean township, December 28, 1845, on the farm before referred to, which his father purchased near the boundary line between McKean and Granville townships. While a small lad he attended school at the "old stone schoolhouse," walking over two miles night and morning. This old structure is still standing—a silent witness of a past generation. It was erected by the Rev. Thomas Hughes in 1825, on his farm, about two miles northeast of Granville. The farm is now owned by D. E. Chism, and the old stone building is used as a sheep house. His dwelling is now in Granville township, while his barn is in McKean township. Mr. Philipps was reared on the old farm homestead and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. He was busily engaged in plowing, planting and harvesting when not occupied with the duties of the schoolroom, and thus his youthful years were passed. He was not yet nineteen years of age when, on the 6th of September, 1864, he offered his services to his country, enlisting as a member of Company D, Twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, being mustered out August 28, 1865, after almost a year spent at the front. He com-


HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY - 391


pleted the work of the sophomore year at Denison University and for a number of years engaged successfully in teaching the country schools. For eight years he was agent for the Ohio Farmers' Insurance Company in Licking county. In partnership with his brother-in-law, S. J. White, he has done contract work for the county in bridge building and constructed many of the principal bridges in this part of the state. He is now concentrating his energies upon his agricultural pursuits, having ninety-five acres of rich and productive land, of which fourteen acres lie in Granville township, and are a part of the original Philipps purchase made by his great-grandfather in 1796.


On the 15th of June, 1876, Mr. Philipps was married to Miss Wilhelmina Williams, who was born in Granville township, March 2, 1857, and died June 23, 1898. She was a daughter of John and Esther (Jones) Williams, natives of Wales. Her father is now deceased, but her mother is living in Granville. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Philipps were born ten children : Mamie 0., the wife of Samuel Wheeler, of Montclair, New Jersey, and who is a graduate of Wellesley College, near Boston; Victoria B., the wife of Daniel Jones, of Cincinnati ; Philip, who married Elsie Hankinson; Pearl, who married George Hottinger ; Bertha ; Susie, the wife of G. P. Barber, of Newark ; Thomas W., attending law school in New Jersey ; Samuel J., Jr.; Winifred; and Edith.


Mr. Philipps is a member of Lemert Post, No. 71, G. A. R., of Newark. The Philipps cemetery is on the farm of Samuel J. Philipps and in the northeast corner of the Philipps purchase. There the father, grandfather and great-grandfather of our subject lie buried. It is historic ground, inasmuch as they were all active factors in the development of the county, contributing in substantial measure to its growth and improvement from the days when settlement by the white race followed closely upon Indian occupancy. As the years passed the old wigwams ceased to be seen and the little log cabins foretold future development. The arduous task of the early pioneers was that of clearing away the forests and preparing the land for cultivation, and as the years went by others tilled the fields which they had cleared, and today the rich farming land of Licking county produces abundantly. Mr. Philipps still lives upon a portion of the old property which has been in possession of the family for one hundred and thirteen years, and continues today to till the soil which has been owned successively by his great-grandfather, his grandfather and his father.


ROBERT ZERGIEBEL


Robert Zergiebel has for twelve years been connected with the police force of Newark, and is now occupying the responsible position of chief of police, in which connection he is rendering valuable service to the city in quelling lawlessness and crime. He is prompt, conscientious and efficient in the discharge of his duties, and his promotion to his present position was a well merited one. He displays many of the sterling characteristics of the German race, of which he is a representative. His birth occurred in Saxony, on the 10th of March, 1853, his parents being Michael and Christina (Seiler) Zergiebel, who were both natives of the Fatherland.


392 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


Robert Zergiebel pursued his education in the schools of his native country, and in 1869, at the age of sixteen years, came to the United States, making his way to Zanesville, Ohio, where he lived for more than a year, and then came to Newark, in June, 1871. Limited financial resources made it imperative that he at once secure employment, and for many years he was a sheepskin tanner. In 1880 he went to Colorado, where he resided for three years, and then returned to this city. With the exception of that period, he has resided continuously in Newark since 1871, and his life record is therefore a familiar one to his fellow townsmen, who recognize in him many qualities that are commendable. In 1896 he joined the police force and acted as a patrolman until January, 1908, when he was appointed chief of police, and is now at the head of the department, which is well organized and is doing efficient work in bringing law-breakers to justice and in preventing crime. In 1887 Mr. Zergiebel returned to his home in Germany for a visit with old friends and acquaintances.


Mr. Zergiebel is a member of the German Beneficial Society and has many friends among people of his own nationality, but his friends are by no means limited to those who had their birth in or trace their ancestry to the Fatherland. He is popular throughout the city and is proving an efficient chief, his course winning him the commendation of all law-abiding citizens.




WILLIAM L. WHITEHEAD.


On the farm in Lima township, where he departed this life March 17, 1906, William L. Whitehead was born. His natal day was September 15, 1848, so that his life record covered more than fifty-seven years. His parents were George and Rebecca (Green) Whitehead and the former, a native of New Jersey, came with his parents, when a young man, to Jersey township, Licking county, Ohio. Here he devoted his remaining days to general agricultural pursuits. His wife was a native of this county and a daughter of Richard Green, who for many years was prominently connected with farming interests in this part of the country and was also a leading church worker. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. George W. Whitehead were six children : Rev. Henry Whitehead, who became a clergyman of the Methodist church but is now deceased ; Mrs. Cynthia Trone, a resident of Indiana; Rhoda, who is the widow of Dr. Hoskins and resides in Jersey township; Aurilla, living in Lima township; Melia, a resident of Corning, California ; and William L.


The last named was reared to the occupation of farming, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. After acquiring his education in the district schools he continued to work in the fields and all his life was devoted to general farming, which he carried on quite successfully. He also made a specialty of dairying and his capable management and close application constituted the foundation of his prosperity. He lived continuously in this county with the exception of five years which he spent in Franklin township, Franklin county, Ohio. His farm in Lima township comprises one hundred acres of rich and highly improved land and is now the property of his widow, his sons carrying on the active work of the fields.


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On the 24th of November, 1873, Mr. Whitehead was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor Condit, a native of Jersey township, Licking county, born November 5, 1854. Her parents were John Henry H. and Martha (Pierson) Condit, who were natives of New Jersey and with their respective parents came to Ohio in childhood days. The mother was a daughter of Elijah Baldwin and Sarah Williams (Mingus) Pierson, who were originally from New Jersey, where they were reared and married, removing thence to Ohio and casting in their lot with the early settlers of Jersey township, Licking county. Mr. Pierson was for many years engaged in merchandising and also carried on a wool buying business in connection with Joseph Atkinson, of Po taskala. Forming a partnership, they engaged in the purchase of wool in the days when it was worth a dollar per pound and had to be paid for in gold. Mr. and Mrs. Pierson remained residents of Jersey township until called to their anal rest. Their family numbered two daughters, Mrs. Martha Condit and Mrs. Mary Harland Barr. The former, the mother of Mrs. Whitehead, departed this life in Columbus, Ohio, where she had been living for twenty-five years. Mr. Condit spent the last two years of his life in the Masonic Home in Springfield, Ohio. They were the parents of three children: Mrs. Clara Louise Yardley, now deceased; Mrs. Whitehead; and Remington, who resides in Columbus, Ohio.


The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Whitehead has been blessed with five children, namely: Henry Harrison, who wedded Martha Chapin and now resides in Los Angeles, California ; Mary Harland, who is the wife of William Henderson, of Harrison county, Ohio, and has two children, Bertram and Stewart; Moses Stewart, who operates the home farm ; and Sarah Minzie and Luella, who are also at home.


Mr. Whitehead was always loyal to the republican party and while he did not seek or desire office for himself he did all in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of the party. In early life he was a Methodist but afterward transferred his membership to the Presbyterian church and served as one of its trustees. In all departments of church work he was deeply interested and also took an active and helpful part in promoting public progress in temperance lines, laboring earnestly to secure the abolition of the liquor traffic. He was particularly happy in his home relations, finding his greatest pleasure at his own fireside. His entire life wasdoingnated with the purpose of dOing good to all men and he closely followed the golden rule while his labors and his influence constituted a potent factor for good in the community.


ELIAS EVANS.


Death often removes from our midst those whom we can ill afford to lose. A feeling of deep and uniform regret spread throughout the community when it was learned that Elias Evans had passed away, for he had long figured as one of the valued and respected farmers of Granville township. He was born upon what is known as the old Evans homestead, in the township, April 6, 1834, and his death there occurred March 18, 1902. He had spent his entire life, covering a period of nearly sixty-eight years, upon that farm, and in early life had become familiar with general agricultural pursuits, working in the fields from the time


396 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


that be was old enough to handle the plow. His education was acquired in the district schools, although the opportunities at that time were not equal to those of the present day. In the period of his youth there were many log houses in the county and the land was just being brought under cultivation by a class of energetic, enterprising settlers. Mr. Evans bore his part in the work of promoting agricultural interests here, and continued as a representative farmer for many years.


On January 1, 1861. Mr. Evans was united in marriage to Miss Martha Williams, who was born in Granville township, October 13, 1836, and has always resided here. She is a daughter of William P. and Mary (Hughes) Williams, natives of South Wales. The father was seven years of age and the mother three years old when brought to the United States. She was a daughter of the Rev. Thomas Hughes, a Baptist clergyman, who occupied the pulpit of the Welsh Hills church for a number of years, and proved a forceful factor in the moral development of the community. William P. Williams came to Ohio with his parents when seven years of age, the family home being established in Delaware county, while later he removed to Licking county and was identified with its farming interests. He lost his wife when their daughter, Mrs. Evans, the eldest of their four children, was but thirteen years of age. The others of the family are : Henry, now living in McKean township ; Amelia, deceased; and Emma, the wife of Cyrus Evans, a brother of Elias Evans. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Elias Evans there were born a son and two daughters : Carey, ho married Esther Palmer, and ,is living on the home farm, cultivating the tract of one hundred and fifty-seven acres belonging to himself and his mother ; Ella, the wife of Oburst Burbank, engaged in the insurance business in Cincinnati, Ohio; and Ina, the wife of the Rev. W. G. Hoover, Baptist clergyman.


Mr. Evans continuously attended and supported the Welsh Hills Baptist church, of which he was a lifelong member. This church is situated on the old home farm, the lot having been deeded to the congregation by his father, Thomas Evans. Elias Evans served as a deacon of the church for about twenty-five years and gave his earnest support to its work. He was also equally stanch in his advocacy o f the temperance cause, and for some years prior to his death voted with the prohibition party. He always believed in reform and progress, and his influence was on the side of justice, truth and right. His life was at all times in consistent harmony with his professions, and he was a splendid representative of the sterling class of Welsh citizens whose industry and enterprise have been the factors in the substantial upbuilding of this part of Licking county. To his family he was a devoted husband and father, and his friends found him a genial gentleman who could be relied upon under any circumstances.


WILLIAM HANKINSON.


William Hankinson figured for many years as a representative farmer of Licking county. Almost his entire life was spent within its borders, and while his attention was largely given to agricultural pursuits, he also found time for cooperation in movements for the public good. His friends found him genial


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and courteous, and as the years passed his ability carried him into important relations with the agricultural development of the community. He was born in Perry county, Ohio, on the 30th of January, 1843, and during his early boyhood became a resident of Newton township, Licking county, to which place his parents, Simeon and Susannah (Collingham) Hankinson, removed. They were natives of New Jersey, were there reared, and in Perry county, ,Ohio, were married. Their last years were spent in Licking county, and they were numbered among its respected and worthy residents. They had a family of nine sons and two daughters. Four of the sons, William, Samuel, Joseph and George, served in the Civil war, all enlisting from Licking county. The last named was with General Sherman through his campaign. Joseph, who was not yet eighteen years of age when he enlisted, was taken prisoner, and suffered all the hardships of southern prison life. Three of the brothers still reside in this county.


William Hankinson, the third in order of birth, remained a resident of this county from his boyhood days. His youth was passed in the usual manner of farm lads of the period, and he was trained to habits of industry, economy and integrity on the home farm. He resided with his parents in Newton township until the time of his enlistment for service in the Civil war. In 1864 he offered his services to the government and joined Company F of the First Regiment of United States Veteran Engineers, with which command he continued until mustered out at the close of the war. He male a creditable military record, never faltering in the performance of any duty that devolved upon him, and when the war was over returned to his home. He then again lived upon the old homestead farm with his parents until his marriage.


It was on the 28th of November, 1868, that Mr. Hankinson wedded Miss Rebecca A. Cramer, who was born in Granville township, near her present home, a mile and a half north of the village of G ranville, September 30, 1850. She has always lived in this county, and is a daughter of William and Adaline (Knight) Cramer, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Maine. The father was born June 10, 1803, and when he was sih months old his parents, Thomas and Rebecca (Johnson) Cramer, came to this county. His mother swam the Ohio river with the babe on her back, and then, leaving her infant on the bank, swam back again to assist her husband in bringing over their effects. After locating here in 1803, the family remained residents of this part of the state. Mr. and Mrs. Cramer had eleven children, eight daughters and three sons. William was the eldest and the others were born in this county. He spent the remainder of his life here from the age of six months, and died on the farm which is now the home of Mrs. Hankinson, his demise occurring March 15, 1888. In the early days he made eleven trips from Licking county, Ohio, driving hogs to market, to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, having to go over the mountains, and being six weeks on the road. On one occasion, while returning, he walked eighty miles in one day. He also drove hogs to the Baltimore market. His wife was one of a family of fifteen children that lived to marry, and she died August 12, 1891, when more than eighty-two years of age. Unto Mr. and Mrs. William Cramer were born five children, but Mrs. Hankinson is the only one who survives.


The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hankinson was blessed with twelve children, but six died in youth. The others are as follows : Mary A. is the wife of Thomas D. Evans, one of the township trustees, and a carpenter by trade. They make


398 - HISTORY OF LICKING COUNTY.


their home with her mother, and have two children, Grace and Eugene. Hayes follows farming in this neighborhood, and has two children, Wilbur R. and Lucy M. Dora V. is the wife of Samuel Sipe, of Alexandria, Ohio, and they have one child, Adeline. Elsie D. is the .wife of Philip Philipps. Albert C. and Archie F. are at home.


After his marriage Mr. Hankinson and his bride lived upon her father's farm for fourteen years, at the end of which time they removed to the farm in Granville township upon which the widow now resides. In 1882 Mr. Hankinson purchased two hundred and thirty-three acres of land and bent his energies to its development and improvement, continuing its cultivation for almost twenty-five years. He accomplished good results, as seen in the fine appearance of his place, and as manifest also in the excellent crops which he annually gathered and marketed. His life was a busy, active and useful one, and though he had no financial assistance at the outset of his career, he worked his way upward and became one of the prosperous farmers of the community. All through his life he gave his political allegiance to the republican party and believed firmly in its principles, but never sought office as a reward for party fealty. Socially he was connected with the Grand Army of the Republic. He died January 25, 1907, on the home farm in Granville township. Wife and children were left to mourn the loss of a loving and devoted husband and father, who was devoted to the welfare of his family and was equally loyal in his friendships. In all of his business interests he was straightforward and reliable, and thus he left to his family not only a good property but also the priceless heritage of an untarnished name.




GEORGE R. GREEN.


When an individual passes from life it is common to review his history, taking note of his salient characteristics and of the work that he has accomplished. In the record of George R. Green there was much commendable and little to condemn. He was always actuated by honorable principles and manly purposes, and ever endeavored to do unto others as he would have them do to him. Thus closely following the Golden Rule, his life history is one well worthy of emulation. He was born in Rappahannock county, Virginia, June 11, 1836, a son of George W. and Louisa (Selix) Green, who were also natives of the Old Dominion. Their family numbered seven children, who were reared on the home farm and like the other sons of the household, George R. Green early became familiar with the task of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. His entire life was given to general agricultural pursuits. Born and reared in the south, he served for four years in the Confederate army, during the Civil war, under General Lee, and was also with General Early's black horse cavalry during the historical raid up the Shenandoah valley in Virginia in 1864.


In the year 1865 Mr. Green came to Ohio, settling at Cherry Valley, near Newark, where he resided for about four years. He then purchased the Martindale farm on York street and made it his home for more than thirty years, or until his demise. This is a farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres, constituting one of the attractive features of the landscape, for it is well improved with good buildings