150 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, married Rhoda Connor, also a native of Virginia. In 1848, he came to Pickaway County and rented a farm near Darbyville. At the time of his death, which occurred in 1890, at the age of eighty years, he owned two hundred and fifty-eight acres of valuable land. He was a prominent member of the Methodist Church and served as Class-leader. In politics, he was a Democrat. His wife died in 1856. Our subject was the third in a family of four children, all of whom reside in Pickaway County. His first recollections are of Darbyville. His early education was acquired in a log schoolhouse, but he made the most of his opportunities and at the age of sixteen secured a teacher's certificate. Ile afterward engaged in teaching, then started to college. In order to pay his tuition, he engaged in teaching and in raising water melons. In the year 1860, he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University from which he was graduated in June, 1866, with the degree of A. B., and subsequently the degree of A. M. was conferred upon him. Wishing to make the practice of law his life work, He began studying with Alfred Yaple, now ex-Judge of Cincinnati. He afterward studied with Hon. R. A. Harrison, one of the leading attorneys of the State, now of Columbus, and was admitted to the Ohio Bar at Chillicothe, September 1, 1868. For three years he was Principal of the schools in Mt. Sterling. On the 8th of September, 1868, Judge Abernethy was married in Mt. Sterling to Miss Lizzie Busick, a native of that place, and a daughter of Ira Busick, who was then a merchant of Mt. Sterling. Unto them have been born six children: Ira, Charles, Harry, Rhoda, Bernard and Minnie. The year succeeding his marriage, Mr. Abernethy located in Circleville and for a year engaged in practice as a partner of Mr. Hayes. In 1872, he was elected Prosecuting Attorney, and served from January, 1873, until January, 1877. The firm of Abernethy & Grigsby was then formed and continued business for two years. In 1878, our subject formed a partnership with H. F. Page for six years, when the firm of Page, Abernethy & Folsom was formed, Mr. Folsom being a nephew of Mr. Page. In 1887, Mr. Page retired. In February, 1890, having been elected Judge of the Common Pleas Court on the Democratic ticket for a five-years term, Mr. Abernethy entered upon the duties of that office. His rulings are wise and he has well demonstrated the fact that he is ably fitted for the office. The Judge served as a member of the County Board of School Examiners for four years and was its Secretary for two years, when he resigned. He was twice a member of the City Council from the First Ward and was for some years a member of the City Board of Education. Socially, he is a Knight Templar Mason, and his wife belongs to the Methodist Church. Judge Abernethy owns a fine farm of one hundred and forty-three acres in Monroe Township, in addition to the residence on North Court Street and other real estate, and laid out Abernethy's First and Second Additions to Circleville, comprising over thirty lots. e is a stockholder and Director in the Masonic 'Temple Association and is a stockholder in the Circleville Opera House Company. His life work in many respects is well worthy of emulation. He started in life a poor boy and by his own efforts has worked his way upwards to the proud position he now occupies. The Judge has been a lecturer in the law department of the Ohio State University for the last year on the subjects of mortgages and liens. ASA SILVER. In this biographical sketch will be recorded a few incidents in the life of a prominent resident of Jefferson Township, Madison County. The parents of our subject, John and Mary (Koontz) Silver, were natives of Pennsylvania, the father's birth occurring July 1, 1800. The mother departed this life in the Keystone State, October 21, 1832, leaving a family of three children, viz: Richard, Henry and Asa. The father of our subject chose as his second wife Miss Catherine Speaker, and to them were born eight children. A sketch of George T., one of the sons, will appear on another page in this PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 153 volume. In 1851, the father of our subject united with the Baptist Church at Jefferson, soon after which he was elected Deacon, of which position he was the incumbent at the time of his death. He was a very industrious and hard-working man and departed this life in July, 1882, leaving a large estate. The original of this sketch was born in Bedford County, Pa., October 25, 1831, and was a lad of six when he accompanied his father to this county. he has always resided in Jefferson Township, and since choosing an occupation for Himself, has devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. The lady to whom he was married April 26, 1860, was Miss Delilah, daughter of David and Nancy (Morrow) Bradley, and the sister of Quinn Bradley, of West Jefferson, whose biography will be found on another page. Mrs. Silver was born in Monroe Township, this county, December 2, 1837, and by her union with our subject has become the mother of three children: Myron A., Charles and Minnie. Mr. Silver has not been interested in politics, other than to cast a straight Republican vote during elections. Religiously, Mrs. Silver is a member of the Baptist Church and is active in all good works. Our subject owns four hundred and twenty acres of good land, which is cultivated in such a manner as to place it among the well-regulated estates in this county, and has adorned the place with all the needful buildings, not the least among which is the comfortable farm residence. JOSHUA HEDGES Walnut Township, Pickaway County is the home of many wealthy and influential citizens not the least among whom is the subject of this sketch and of the accompanying portrait. He is the proprietor of a valuable estate on section 16 which his industry and good judgment have placed under thorough cultivation, and which brings him in a handsome income All the early associations of Mr Hedges are connected with the district in which he is now a resi- 7 dent, as he was born in this county July 18, 1832. His parents, Jabez and Maria (Williamson) Hedges, were natives respectively of Virginia and Pickaway County, this State, and the father was a soldier in the War of 1812. He located in this State in 1803, making his home in Fairfield County. A year later, he came to this county with his family, and made settlement in the woods in Walnut Township. He was employed, as were all the pioneers of that day, in subduing nature, building cabins, clearing land, breaking prairie, etc., but with all that labor was social and happy, having a care for the morals and education of his growing family. Mr. Hedges died in 1880, having been preceded to the land beyond by his good wife, who died May 13, 1868. In Walnut Township our subject was reared to man's estate, and has followed the occupation of a farmer all his life. his education was obtained in the log cabin of that period, which was carried on under the rate-bill system. He made the best of his limited opportunities, however, and is to-day an intelligent and well-read gentleman. September 13, 1855, Mr. Hedges was united in marriage with Sarah A. Hartman, who was born in this county May 4, 1831. Mrs. Hedges was the daughter of Jonas and Sarah (Hoffhimes) Hartman, natives of Pennsylvania, who emigrated to this county in an early day. When she was an infant of one year, her parents removed to Hancock County, Ill., where she grew to mature years, and was (riven a fair education in the log schoolhouse with slab seats and puncheon floor. To our subject and his worthy wife have been granted a family of nine children, eight of whom are living, namely: Clara, the wife of John Oman; Hattie, Mrs. W. A. Parks; Emma, who is a musical instructor in Nicholasville, Ky., being employed in a private female seminary; Chester, Edgar, John, Claude and Anne G. Mrs. Hedges is a member of tile Methodist Episcopal Church, and is active in all good works. Our subject has been the incumbent of various positions of trust and responsibility, among which were those of Township Treasurer and Trustee. Since 1853, he has been identified with the Masonic fraternity, being a member of Pickaway Lodge No. 32, at Circleville. In poli- 154 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tics, he casts his vote and influence in favor of Democratic principles and candidates, and is interested in all measures that have for their object the upbuilding of his community. He has watched the details of improvement and the gradual evolution of his section from the original wild state to its present prosperous air of rural life. He owns over five hundred acres of valuable farming land, three hundred and twenty of which comprise the home farm. The family are among the old pioneer residents of the county, and occupy a high position socially in their community. lSRAEL VALENTINE. Among the old residents of Pickaway County, there is probably none more worthy of our attention than 'he whose name has just been given, for not only is he one of the pioneers of this county, but he comes of that noble class of men who have built up its agricultural interests until it is a garden spot in the great commonwealth of Ohio. Mr. Valentine was born in this county on the 26th of January, 1819, and is a son of John and Margaret (Zeiger) Valentine, both natives of the Eastern States. The father was born and reared near Baltimore, Md., and when a young man became desirous of owning some of the fertile soil of the Buckeye State. He came of Pennsylvania German stock and probably inherited his thrift and energy from his sturdy and industrious ancestors. At any rate, he started out on horseback for Ohio early in 1800, made several trips back and forth, and finally located on the property now owned by his son. He bought part of this from his father-in-law (or he who subsequently became his father-in-law), old Jacob Zeiger, who was the owner of large tracts of land here. Mr. Valentine married Miss Margaret Zeiger, and this ambitious and thrifty young couple began housekeeping in a log house. They worked hard in their new home and gradually gathered around them many comforts and conveniences. To the original tract of land was added more from time to time, until at the time of Mr. Valentine's death he owned four hundred acres. His wife died about 1827, and his second marriage was to Miss Elizabeth Bowers, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio. Of the eight children born to the first union, only one besides our subject is now living, Jacob, of Circleville. Eight children were also born to the second union. Reared on his father's farm, our subject became familiar with the arduous duties of the same at an early age, and he had fairly good educational advantages. He attended the old academy of Circleville and remembers the old mounds in the vicinity. Until twenty-two years of age, he remained with his parents, and then bought eighty-three acres of land in the same part of the township. In 1841, in Circleville, he married Miss Caroline Stout, a native of Washington Township, Pickaway County, Ohio, and the daughter of John Stout, who was originally from the Keystone State. The latter settled in Washington Township, this county. at an early date, and became a very extensive farmer. He passed the closing scenes of his life here, as did his wife, whose maiden name was Ann Myers, also of Pennsylvania. Our subject and wife started out for themselves in one room of a two-story house, and the former bent all his energies towards clearing and improving his farm. Later, he added eighty-six acres to his former purchase, operated both, and as success crowned his efforts on all sides, he purchased the old Stout Farm of two hundred acres. This was in Washington Township, about four miles from Circleville, and he rented it to his sons. He also purchased the Markle Farm of one hundred and five acres in Circleville Township, on which were many improvements, and the old Zearing place of over eighty acres, in Fairfield County. Since then he has purchased the Ruby Farm of two hundred acres in Washington Township, and is now the owner of over seven hundred and sixty acres of good land. For the most of this he paid $55, $70 and $100, per acre, all being well-improved farms. Since 1887, he has given much of his land to his children, but he retains one hundred acres of the Stout Farm and the two home places. He has been very successful in farming and the buildings and other improvements on his farms are PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 155 substantial and of the latest designs. Fine groves and large orchards are on all his farms and running streams furnish plenty of water for the stock. Mr. Valentine's estimable wife, the sharer of his joys and sorrows, died on the 11th of August, 1887, when sixty-five years of age. Although well along in years, our subject is still hale and hearty, and is a most pleasant and agreeable gentleman to meet. His marriage resulted in the birth of seven sons and four daughters: William, a farmer in Washington Township, this county; Lydia A., who died here when thirty-seven years of age; Lizzie, at home; John, who died in Fairfield County, Ohio, when forty-one years of age; George, a farmer, who resides in Washington Township; James, a farmer residing in Harrison Township, this county; Mary, now Mrs. Metzgar, residing in Circleville Township; Emanuel, who farms in Washing town Township, this county; Sarah E., who died when four years of age; and Edward and Israel, Jr., twins, who arc engaged in farming in Washington Township. Mr. Valentine is a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Circleville and assisted with his means to build a church. In politics, he is a Democrat. JOHN C. CAPPS. One of the pleasant homes in Perry Township, Fayette County, is that of Mr. Capps, which is jointly presided over by Mr. Capps and his daughter, Mrs. Todhunter. Our subject is the son of William Capps, who was born in Virginia in 1792, and was a son of Humphrey Capps. who hailed from North Carolina and served seven years in the Revolutionary War. William Capps was a soldier in the War of 1812. The maiden naive of our subject's mother was Margaret Pope. She was born in Virginia in 1799 and was the daughter of William Pope. Both parents came to the Buckeye State with their respective families when quite young, Mr. Capps coming as early as 1800. They were married in Highland County, where they made their home for a number of years, removing to Indiana in 1826. They made Morgan County, that State, their home for a period and then tried their fortunes in Vermillion County. Later they settled on a farm in Fulton County, Ill., removing thence to Knox County, the same State, where they passed their last days, the father dying in June, 1875, and the mother passing away a year of two before. The parental family of our subject included thirteen children, five of whom are living. One son, Curtis H., enlisted during the Civil War in the Union army and died soon after in Knox County, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. William Capps were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, in politics, the father was first a Democrat, later a Whig and, finally, a Republican. John C. Capps was born April 23, 1820, in Highland County, this State. e received a limited education in the district schools and began for himself when attaining twenty years of age. He was married May 27, 1847, to Jane, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Rowe) Anderson, early settlers of the Buckeye State and natives of Virginia. Robert Anderson, who was a very zealous Christian and exhorter, established the first Methodist Episcopal Church in this section. Mrs. Capps was one of a family of six children, and was horn in 1824, in Fayette County, where she received a fair education. After marriage, our subject located upon the farm given him by his father-in-law, in Green Township, this county, which he cleared and placed under good cultivation. Thirty-three years ago, he moved to his present farm, which ranks among the best in the township. Mrs. Jane Capps died August 12, 1885, after having borne her husband four children, one of whom is deceased. Sallie is the wife of Robert Todhunter and has had three children, one of whom is deceased. Margaret married Levi Bryan, who is deceased, and also has had three children, one of whom is deceased. She later married William Eyre and resides in this township. Mary Jane married Henry Johnson, has had nine children, of whom one is deceased, and makes her home in Green Township. Robert became the husband of Anna White and died February 24, 1881. They had one child. 156 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Mr. Capps of this sketch is a conscientious member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which society he is Steward and Trustee. he is very liberal in contributing of his means to its support and, indeed, is interested in all measures that elevate the standard of society in his community. In politics, he is a Republican and his interest in school matters has placed him on the Board. He did very effective work for his township as Supervisor, and is highly esteemed for his honest and upright character by all who know him. Mr. Johnson began in life empty-handed and at the present time is the owner of one hundred and fifty-one acres of land, which his industry has placed in a very productive condition. His present position in the farming community has been attained largely through the good advice and economy of his late wife, to whom he accords all due praise. CHARLES A. PALMER, attorney-at-law, has been an active practitioner of Washington Hon C. H. since the date of his admission to the Bar, April 15, 1860. During the more than thirty years that have conic and gone, he has established an enviable reputation as an able lawyer and honorable man, while his profound and varied knowledge of jurisprudence entitles him to be ranked among the eminent men of Ohio. In what is now Jasper Township, Fayette County, Mr. Palmer was born, January 28, 1839, the son of William and Margaret (Whiteside) Palmer, natives of Virginia, who settled in this county as early as 1805 or 1807. William Palmer was prominently connected with the early history of Southern Ohio, and during the War of 1812 raised a company, of which he was Captain, and which was called out and served thirteen days, but was not mustered into service. In 1840-41, he was the representative of Fayette County in the State Legislature, to which he was elected on the Democratic ticket by a majority of twelve votes, his opponent being Gen. H. Harrison, in a strong Whig county. In addition to his service in the Legislature, William Palmer accomplished much for the advancement of Fayette County by introducing thorough-bred Short-horn cattle, and fine horses. He was a pioneer in raising fine stock, tile value of which he proved so conclusively as to create a sentiment in their favor. His farming operations were so successful that he became the owner of one thousand acres, most of which he cleared and cultivated. e was especially interested in the Agricultural Society of the county, and officiated for a time as its President. Having served his fellow men both in public and private capacities for a long period, he passed to his rest at the age of fourscore, and his mortal remains were buried January 1, 1867. The family of which our subject is a member consists of the following children: Emily W. Turrell, Evaline M. Hankins, Granville C., Mary J. Houston, Margaret M. Smith, William H., Rebecca A. Cox and Charles A. The mother of the family died in 1865. She was a member of the Universalist Church, which was likewise the faith of her husband. After gleaning a common-school education in Jasper Township, our subject was a student successively at Antioch and Marietta Colleges, and Miami University at Oxford, where his literary education was completed. Having resolved to commence the study of law. Mr. Palmer entered the office of Judge Robert M.. Briggs, of Washington C. H., and after remaining there for a time, continued his studies in the Cincinnati Law School, graduating in 1860. He was admitted to practice in all courts of the State of Ohio, and shortly afterward in the Federal Court. Upon commencing the practice of his profession. He was alone until Judge Briggs left the Bench when a partnership was formed, which existed until the death of the latter in 1871, since which year Mr. Palmer has practiced alone. His practice is extensive and lucrative, and he is the acknowledged peer of the best attorneys of the city. His political belief brings him into affiliation with the Democrats, which is not the popular faith in this section of Ohio. His party has twice nominated him for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, but, being in the minority, failed to elect him. The lady who, October 15, 1861, became the wife PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 157 of Mr. Palmer, bore the maiden name of jean M. Briggs. and is a sister of Judge Briggs, of whom mention has already been made. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. PaImer, as follows: Robert 1i.. private stenographer to Goy. Campbell during this term of office, now Assistant Secretary to the Committee on Military Affairs in ('on cress, and also the owner and proprietor of the Ohio States Register ; Margaret P., wife of H. H. Maynard, of Atlanta, Ga.; Paul, who is en gaged in farming in Clinton County, Helen, who is a student in the college at Painesville; Luther S., William M., Alice and Harrison B., who are at home. The members of the family are attendants at the Episcopal Church, of which they are devoted members. Iii his social affiliations, Mr. Palmer is a member of Fayette Lodge No. 107, Fayette Chapter, F. & A. M. e owns a splendid farm in the western part of Fayette County, where he has a fine line of trotters. Judge Robert Moore Briggs, brother-in-law of Mr. Palmer, was so closely identified with him during the latter part of his life, that brief mention of his career will he of interest to the realer, he was born in Richmond, Va., about I835, the son of Dr. Robert and Helen (Buckner) Briggs, and was named Robert Moore, after his father and the celebrated English poet, from whom he was descended. His father, a very prominent physician of Richmond, died when he was young, and afterward he and his sister accompanied their mother to Ohio, to look after their landed interests. Although he read medicine for a short time, Mr. Briggs showed such an aptitude for the law that he turned his attention to legal studies, and was graduated from the Cincinnati Law School. e commenced to practice at Chillicothe, but some time in the SO's came to Fayette County, where he afterward resided. his aversion to slavery was so great that he and his mother and sister set free the slaves they had inherited from his father. Soon after locating in Washington C. H., he was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Fayette County, and later served two terms in the Legislature, where he was an active and prominent member. He was next rioted to the Common Pleas Bench to supply an extra Judgeship that had been provided for by the Legislature. In that position he was noted for his executive ability and dispatch of business, and attained eminence throughout the state. After filling the position for five years, he resumed his practice and continued thus occupied until his death in October, 1871. After the close of the Civil War, he followed the course of Chase, Greely and other eminent. Republicans, and joined the ranks of Democracy. His wife was Catherine, daughter of Charles Robinson, and a niece of Bishop Merrill, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and of the. late Rey. Dr. Stuart Robinson, of Louisville, Ky. GOTTLIAB F. WITTICH. Wittich was the name of the celebrated son of the blacksmith Wieland in the old heroic tradition, who, on account of his origin, wore a hammer and tongs in his coat of arms and a serpent on his helmet. e was the hero of the King Ermenrich and Dietrichs Von Bern. The old heroic traditions have contributed much to the diffusion of certain names, and there is no doubt that those who first adopted the name Wittich as a family name, did so in honor of the famous hero. The name is derived from "Wite''—the old High German "Witu''—meaning "woods, or forest." Hence, Wittich means man of the forest. The oldest ancestor of our subject of whom we have any knowledge was Johannes Wittich, who was born in 1670. He was a Commissioner, or Superintendent, of Forestry in the service of the Prussian Government, being stationed near the border of Bohemia. From there he was called to fill an engagement in the same capacity in the Dukedom of Wurtemberg, where he served until his death, which occurred about 1730. Probably the family seal or escutcheon, which is still used by some of its members, was adopted by him, for it represents a deer leaping out of a shield, with the initials of the respective member of the family using it. There is little doubt but that Johannes Wittich was the first one of that name in Wurtem- 158 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. berg, for even at this time the name is not represented very numerously. The paternal grandfather of our subject, George Jacob Wittich, was born in 1710 and was a Lutheran minister and the son of Johannes Wittich, mentioned above. His first charge was in Durnau in the Dukedom of Wurtemberg. In 1743, he was married to Maria Dorothea, daughter of the Rev. V. L. Neuffer. To them six children were born, only one of whom grew to maturity. Mrs. Maria Wittich died in 1754, and the succeeding year, the grandfather was married to Christiana Fredricks, daughter of the Rev. J. J. Neubich, of Wurtemberg. Six of the twelve children born of that union attained to old age. Of these, our subject's father died July 2, 1839, when sixty-eight years of age. Mrs. Wittich departed this life November 3, 1775. In 1757, George J. Wittich took charge of the Lutheran congregation in Liebenzell. In 1771, he was appointed to the charge of Wittershausen, where he died about 1785, in the seventy-fifth year of his age. Emanuel Frederick Wittich, the father of our subject, was born in Liebenzell. After finishing his studies in the public schools, his father intended to have him enter one of the professions, but when out horseback riding, he was thrown from his horse, and, falling on a stone, received serious injury to his breast, which deprived him of speech for some time. On recovering from the accident, although regaining his speech, he was left with an impediment sufficient to prevent him from becoming a public speaker. He was then advised by his father to choose a trade, which he did by apprenticing himself to learn the business of a book-binder. In 1801, he established in business for himself in Ebingen, Wurtemberg, a manufacturing town of about four thousand or five thousand people. November 18, 1802, the father of our subject married Miss Maria Catherina, daughter of Johannes Wolfer. She was born in 1782, and departed this life in Circleville in 1811. Mr. Wittich continued in the book-binder's business, to which he added a stock of school and hymn books for sale, until 1836, at which time he set sail for the New World. Locating in Circleville, he engaged in his trade, taking in as his partner his son, Ferdinand F., and continued thus until his death, in April, 1839. The three children born to him were Ferdinand F., who died in 1861; Sophia, Mrs. Hartmeyer, who departed this life in Circleville when in her seventy-eighth year; and our subject. The original of this sketch was born in Ebingen, Wurtemberg, Germany, November 28, 1819. He began going to school when in his sixth year, and four years later, having had some instruction in vocal music, was invited to sing in a choir. About that time, he entered the high School, which was then called the Latin School, where he studied Latin, drawing and French, in addition to his other general studies. He was confirmed in 1838, and at that time, his brother Ferdinand F. having come to America, he learned the book-binder's trade under his father, with whom he worked until receiving an urgent request from his brother to come to the New World. They left home June 20, 1836, going to Havre, France, via Strasburg and Paris, their party consisting of father, mother and sister's husband and child. They boarded the sailing-vessel, "Poland,' which was commanded by Capt. Anthony, on the 1st of July, and after a tedious voyage of thirty five days, landed at Castle Garden. They immediately came by way of boat to Circleville, where they were met by Ferdinand F., he having secured a position as book-binder in the office of the Religious Telescope. Gottlieb F. Wittich, on arriving at his new home, assisted his father and brother in binding seven thousand hymn books which they had contracted for. In May, 1837, as there was not enough work at their trade to keep them all busy, his brother secured him a position with Joseph P. Mayer, at Cincinnati, with whom he learned the confectionery business, receiving as remuneration for his services $4 per month for the first year and *6 per month the second year. In August, 1839, our subject came to Circleville, and, in partnership with his brother, started in the confectionery business, which connection lasted for eight years, during which time they were very successful. Mr. Wittich has ever since been engaged in the manufacture and wholesaling of con- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 159 fectionery and ice-cream. In 1855, he erected the brick block where he carries on his business, and which contains two stores, with a frontage of forty-three feet of ground. It at that time was two stories in height, but in 1882 he added a story, which with the second story is used for offices. He occupies one store and rents the adjoining room. He is the owner of a handsome residence, located on Court Street Mr. Wittich also owns considerable other real estate in the city and in Port Townsend and Tacoma, Wash., and in Chicago. e has the finest confectionery store in the city, in addition to which business he has added a stock of toys. He is the oldest merchant in the place, and now ranks among the wealthy and progressive citizens of the county, having been the architect of his own fortune. e is a fine scholar, as well as draftsman and penman, and has in his possession the only original copy of a bird's-eye-view of Circleville as it was in 1836, when it was really in a circle. In October, 1841, Mr. Wittich was married to Miss Henrietta, daughter of Col. Valentine Keffer, of Pennsylvania, who came to this county in 1805, and located near Circleville, on a farm, where he became one of the prominent and wealthy farmers. The grandfather of Airs. Wittich was Jacob Keffer, who was born in Zeselberg, Germany, in 1734. Col.. Keffer owned a portion of the original site of the city of Circleville and during the War of 1812 served as Major under Gen. Joseph Renick. At the close of hostilities, he was mustered out with the commission of Colonel. He was very prominent in this locality and for ten years was a member of the Ohio State Legislature, his popularity being such that he very seldom had an opposing candidate. In 1840, he was Presidential Elector on Jackson's ticket. His wife was Catherina, daughter of Jacob Zieger, a pioneer of Circleville, and he departed this life March 9, 1852. Mrs. Wittich died in October, 1871, having become the mother of nine children, eight of whom grew to mature years. Albert is a fine musician and is located at St. Louis, Mo., where he is sole agent for the Estey & Camp Music Company; Melanethon is in business in (lineage; Theophilus is a Professor of Music at San Francisco, Cal., Rosa married S. C. Gamble, who is a prominent attorney in Circleville; Willis is a graduate of West Point and is Captain in time Twenty-first United States Infantry, stationed at Ft. Randall, S. Dak., and participated in the campaign against the Indians in Dakota; Ella is the wife of Dr. F. A. Mearns, Surgeon in the United States army at Ft. Snelling, Minn.; Edward is in time employ of his father and is a line musician; Frank is engaged in the boot and shoe business at St. Louis, Mo. Our subject has been a Township Trustee for two years and a member of the School Board for a period of thirty years. being the oldest member on time Board. In religious matters, he is a Lutheran, and votes the Democratic ticket. GEORGE W. VALENTINE, a native of Pickaway County, born in Circleville October 6, 1841 is a farmer of much enterprise and practical experience, and has a substantially improved, ably managed farm in Washington Township that is classed among the best in this region. Our subject is the fifth of the eleven children, eight of whom are living, of Israel and Caroline (Stout) Valentine, of whom mention is made in another part of this work. e was born and reared on it farm, and obtained his education in the district school. e remained at the home of his parents, within the corporate limits of Circleville, until he attained his majority, and in 1865 began farming on his father's farm in Circleville Township. In the fall of 1887. Mr. Valentine purchased the farm that he now occupies in Washington Township. It comprises one hundred and six acres of land of surpassing fertility, which is under the best of tillage, the methods best adapted to the soil being employed in its cultivation, and a fine set of buildings adorn the place, including a handsome and conveniently arranged frame residence. The land is well drained, having over two miles of tile, and it: is admirably adapted to general farming purposes, to which our subject de- 160 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. votes it. He has it well stocked with all kinds of stock of good grades, and from that source has a good income. Mr. Valentine is a thoroughly good man, whom his neighbors trust and respect very highly for his many virtues of head and heart. He takes an intelligent interest in political affairs, and gives his fealty to the Democratic party. Religiously, both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church, for whose support they do much. Mr. Valentine was married in 1865 to Miss Sarah Jane Stout, a native of Washington Township, and a daughter of Jeremiah and Caroline (Sitler) Stout. Her parents were Pennsylvanians, but they left their native State and came to Ohio prior to their marriage. e became a prosperous farmer, and is living in this county. His wife died May 15, 1890. Eight of their ten children are living. Mr. and Mrs. Valentine have been blessed in their marriage, which is an example of a true wedded life, by the birth of three children, whom they have named Florence, Edson F. and Turney W., respectively. JOB R. RENICK. The late Job R. Renick, who belonged to one of the oldest and wealthiest families of Pickaway County, rose to prominence as one of its foremost farmers and stockmen, who controlled large landed and stock interests, centering in Jackson Township. At his death the county lost one of the truest and best of her native-born sons, who had ever been an honor to her citizenship. Mr. Renick was born on the old Renick homestead in Jackson Township, where he always lived, February 9, 1820. He obtained his early schooling in the log schoolhouses that were among the first established in the county, and later attended the Blendon and Athens academics. His father was an invalid for six years prior to his death, and our subject and his brother, Thomas T., farmed the home place on shares until his death, and then they bought it, thus aggregating nearly twelve hundred acres of land. At his death, Thomas willed his interest in the farm to our subject. The latter once farmed very extensively, but subsequently went into the stock business largely, making a specialty of fine Durham and Rose of Sharon cattle, and of draft horses and roadsters of the best breeds, beside raising sheep. He was a first-class farmer, and he showed good judgment and wise economy in feeding all the corn that he raised, never selling but one load in his life. He was a man of splendid business endowments, and under his care his property increased greatly in value, and he also added to his landed estate, so that at the time of his death he owned seventeen hundred acres of choice real estate. The commodious frame residence, the finest and largest in Jackson Township. occupied by his wife and children, was built by him in 1890, but he was never to live in it, as he died February 19, 1891, just before the family moved into it. June 8, 1875, Mr. Renick was married to Miss Ella Rutter, a native of Circleville, and her devotion and companionship, with that of the children. made his last years his best and happiest. Mrs. Renick is a daughter of Jacob and Deborah (McClelland) Rutter, who are natives, respectively of Virginia and Pennsylvania. Her father came to this county in 1831, and established himself in the tailoring business under the firm name of Rock W Rutter. He was engaged at that eleven or twelve years, and then turned his attention to farming. buying a place in Washington Township, upon which he lived a year. He stocked the farm, and though he returned to the city, continued to manage it for some years, and also bought another farm in Monroe Township. Subsequently, he entered into the hardware business at Circleville, carrying it on for some twenty-five years with two other gentlemen, under the firm name of Rutter, Wolfley & Rains, the latter part of the time as Rutter & Wolfley. He now lives retired from active business in Circleville, but still retains a farm of two hundred and forty-one acres in Muhlenberg Township, which he rents. He and his wife have reared three children: Anna M., who died in 1864, aged twenty-one; Edward T., who died in 1887. at the age of thirty-two years, and Mrs. Renick. The latter became the mother of four children, but one, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 163 Nellie, died in infancy. The others are harry R., Job E. and John J. Mrs. Renick is in every way a most admirable woman, of pronounced ability and remarkable business qualifications, as is manifested by the skillful way in which she manages her large farm of sixteen hundred acres, and at the same time has a well-ordered household. She is a member of the Methodist Church, and her name is associated with its every good work. Mr. Renick was a man of much strength of character, of a kind and loving disposition, who, although he saw much trouble in his life, bore it cheerfully, and was never disposed to make others help him bear his burdens, or to sadden others with them. e was not a member of the church, but was a true believer in religion, and gave liberally of his means in support of the church and all good objects. One of his last public acts was to give a lot on which to build a Methodist Church. his fellow-men always found him kind and sympathizing, and generous where charity was needed, and in his family he was a devoted husband and an indulgent father. A strong Republican, he took a great interest in national affairs, and was influential in local politics. He was urged to accept the nomination for Representative to the State Legislature, but declined the honor. On another page of this volume appears a view of the Renick homestead. ALEXANDER C. BELL. This gentlemen, who has the honor of being one of the three Commissioners of Pickaway County, occupies a prominent position in the agricultural community, owning eight hundred and ninety-one acres of land in Circleville, Walnut and Jackson Townships, which has been accumulated through his own persistent efforts and good judgment. In business circles he is influential, Iris word being considered as good as his bond. He of whom we write was born in Walnut Township, this county, August 22, 1830. He is therefore acquainted with the gradual evolution of this section from the original wild state of the land to its present prosperous air of rural life. his father, William Bell, was born in Ireland, August 13, 1802, and emigrated to America with his father, James Bell, about 1807. The latter-named gentleman was also a native of the Emerald isle, and on locating in Pennsylvania, followed the occupation of farmer for a few years. The family later came to this county, about 1812, where the grandparents died, leaving a family of three sons and five daughters. The father of our subject was the eldest son of the parental family, and after reaching mature years was married to Catherine Caldwell, a native of this State, who was born March 24, 1802. The date of their marriage was November 29, 1825. Mr. Bell followed farming in Walnut Township, along the Columbus Turnpike, and was thus engaged until he died, April 30, 1851. Mrs. Bell passed from this life December 16, 1889, firm in the faith of tire Presbyterian Church, of which body tier husband was also a member. She was the daughter of Alexander Caldwell, a native of Ireland, who came to the New World early in the nineteenth century, and settled in this county, where be was one of the early pioneers. Mr. Bell was Captain of a company of militia in early tines. Mr. and Mrs. William Bell were the parents of the following-named eight children: James, Jane, our subject, Ruth, William, Catherine, Caroline S., and one who died in infancy. Caroline S., who makes her home with our subject, is the only member of the family beside Mr. Bell who is living. The educational advantages of our subject, like those of most pioneer youths, were limited, but he acquired enough to give him an impetus to go on, and to-day he ranks among the intelligent and progressive citizens of the county. His father dying when he was nineteen years of age, the care of the family fell upon his shoulders, but he sturdily braved all tire responsibilities, and started out to earn money to supply the necessities of life by working out on a farm in Walnut Township, Pickaway County. The parental homestead included two hundred acres, one-fifth of which fell to the lot of our subject. In company with two brothers, he purchased 164 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the interest of his two sisters, the three operating the farm in partnership for a number of years. They later purchased two hundred and twenty acres additional, of which, when divided, our subject took the farm which he now occupies in Circleville Township, and upon which he moved a few years later. October 25, 1855, Miss Minerva R. Rebel, who was born in Fairfield County, this State, March 5, 1834. became the wife of our subject. She was the daughter of Thomas and Rachel (Allen) Rebel, natives of Pennsylvania. Her parents were farmers, and removed to Wended County about 1854, where the fattier still resides, being in his ninetieth year. Mrs. Rebel died in 1891. Only five of their family of eight children are living. Mrs. Bell died October 15, 1875, after having become the mother of nine children, namely: Thomas R., Lucy K., Clara J., Charles, Flora, Rachel, Layman A., Mattie M. and Annie O. The eldest son married Miss Ella Halving, and is engaged in the grain business in Circleville; Lucy K. is Mrs. John D. Newton, whose husband is a farmer of Walnut Township; Clara J. is the wife of Benjamin Renick, a farmer in Harrison Township, Pickaway County; Charles married Annie Seine, and lives in Circleville Township; Flora became Mrs. Charles Van Meter, of Savannah, Tenn.; Rachel married Arthur Wiggins, also a farmer in Harrison Township; Layman A., formerly a stenographer in the dry-goods house of Siegel, Cooper & Co., of Chicago, is now in Denver, Colo.; the two youngest children are at home. They have all been given excellent educations, and occupy good positions in the community. Mr. Bell was again married, September 17, 1885, this time to Mrs. Sally E. Valentine, who was born in Circleville, and was the daughter of Bentley Grace, who died in 1890. Mrs. Bell passed from this life in 1886, just six months after her marriage. In politics, Mr. Bell is a Democrat. He was elected County Commissioner in the fall of 1887,and re-elected in the fall of 1890. His estate comprises the magnificent sum of eight hundred and ninety-one acres of land in Circleville, Walnut and Jackson Townships. A view of his home is shown on another page. His place is stocked with cattle, his favorite being Shorthorns. His accumulations have been the result of his industry and good management, as he started out in life with but forty acres. MONROE SCOTHORN. Occupying a high place among the pioneers of Pickaway County is the gentleman whose name we place at the head of this sketch. He is at present residing in Walnut Township, where he has a finely-improved farm and is living in the enjoyment of the fruits of his early toil. He is held in reverence by all who know him and his name will be long remembered when earth shall know him no more. Monroe Scothorn was born March 20, 1830, in Walnut Township, and is the son of Joseph and Hannah (Crum) Scothorn, natives of Virginia. The paternal ancestors of our subject were of Scotch birth, while those on the maternal side are said to have been German. Joseph Scothorn was born March 4, 1796, and was nine years of age when his parents emigrated to Ohio, locating in the eastern portion of Walnut Township. There the elder Mr. Scothorn died, and Joseph made permanent settlement on a portion of the farm which is the property of his son, our subject. It was then in a wild state, but Mr. Scothorn set himself industriously to work to prepare a home for his family and clear and cultivate his land. He endured all the hardships known to that early day, and has watched the gradual evolution from the original wild state of the land into its present prosperous condition. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Scothorn, of whom we name the following: Elizabeth became the wife of Jackson Hoover; Monroe. Frank A. and Thornton. In the death of Mr, Scothorn, Pickaway County lost one of its progressive, successful and wide-awake citizens. The original of this sketch was reared to man's estate in the neighborhood where he is at present residing, and with which all his early associations are PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD -165 nnected. The hardships which they were called upon to pass through in their early settlement here have made a lasting impression upon his mind. Monroe Scothorn has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits, and that his persistent industry and good judgment have been rewarded is assured by a view of the beautiful farm on section. His education, like that of most of the pioneer youths, was limited, he being permitted to attend the house of learning only a few months during the winter. February 12, 1852, he of whom we write and Miss Margaret Morrison were united in marriage. Mts. Scothorn was born in Lancaster County, Pa., April 23, 1833, and was the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Crawson) Morrison. She accompanied her parents on their removal to Fairfield County, this State, being at that time only three years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Morrison resided in the above named place for several years and then came to Walnut Township, this county, where they were numbered among the early residents, and where they passed their last days. They were the parents of a family of nine children, only five of whom survive, viz: Mrs. Scothorn; James; Rachel, Mrs. Wilson Newton; George and Samuel. Mr. Morrison was Justice of the Peace in his community, and was otherwise warmly interested in all township affairs. To our subject and his estimable wife have been born six children, all of whom, with one exception, are living, namely: Ollie, Mrs. P. E. Hoover; George; Emma, the wife of J. L. Hoover; Lida C., who married C. F. Brinker, and Ira M. Mr. Scothorn is the possessor of an estate which includes one hundred and forty-nine acres of valuable land. His progressiveness and enterprise have led him to place that entire amount under good cultivation, which not only makes a beautiful spot in the landscape of Walnut Township, but is the source of a Handsome income to its owner. he is practically self-made, as his accumulations are the result of his good judgment and industry. With his wife, he is a member in good standing of the United Brethren Church, in which body he is an active worker. In politics, Mr. Scothorn votes the Democratic ticket, and is in favor of all measures tending to up build and benefit his community. For eighteen years he held the responsible office of .Justice of the Peace, and for three years was Township Treasurer and Township Trustee for a period of two years. e is now in advanced years and is passing his last days surrounded by his children and friends, enjoying the confidence of all who know him. OTHO W. LOOFBOURROW is one of the most active members of the farming community of Madison County and, by his progressive spirit, has succeeded in placing his farm in Pleasant Township under excellent cultivation. In addition to raising cereals, he gives considerable time and attention to grazing stock, from which branch of agriculture he reaps a handsome income. His estate is located one mile south of Mt. Sterling, in which place he was born August 30, 1844. Our subject is the son of James and Jane (Gregory) Loofbourrow, the grandson of Thomas, great-grandson of John Wade Loofbourrow, and great-great-grandson of Wade Loofbourrow, who emigrated from Scotland to America and settled near Amboy, N. J. The date of emigration we are unable to ascertain. His descendants removed from Amboy to Virginia about 1797, and from that State to Ohio in 1803. Our subject lost both parents, also one sister and brother, by cholera in July, 1852, and afterward made his home with Mrs. Elizabeth Williams until he was fourteen years of age, when he went to the home of M. M. Thomas, his uncle and guardian. When eighteen years old, Mr. Loofbourrow enlisted as a private in Company G, One Hundred and Thirteenth Ohio Infantry. Ile participated in the battles of Chickamauga, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Wilson's Creek, Bentonville, and was with Gen. Sherman on his memorable march to the sea. After taking part in the Grand Review at Washington, D. C., he returned home in July, 1865, and on November 19th of the same year was 166 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. married to Miss Malvina Loofbourrow. This lady was born in Madison County, July 13, 1843, and is the daughter of L. P. and Elizabeth (Graham) Loofbourrow. In addition to the farm above mentioned, Mr. Loofbourrow is the proprietor of a good tract of land in Fayette County, and one two miles northwest of Mt. Sterling. He has been the architect of his own fortune and enjoys an extended reputation as an able financier. Ile was elected County Commissioner in 1889, and has been active in protecting the interests of the people in the building of the court house, jail and sheriff's residence. Three children comprise the family of Mr. and Mrs. Loofbourrow: Rena Helen, who was born in Mt. Sterling, September 24, 1866, is a graduate of the Mt. Sterling schools and also attended the colleges at Oberlin and Lebanon. October 7, 1890, she was married to harry Fitzgerald and is the mother of one son, Lisle H. Milton Floyd was born in Fayette County, April 17, 1872, and was graduated from the Mt. Sterling schools in 1891. Two years before receiving his diploma he was engaged in the bank at Mt. Sterling and is now studying civil engineering at the Ohio State University at Columbus. Bessie was born in Fayette County, September 9, 1873, and was graduated in 1892 from the Mt. Sterling schools. GEORGE SPINDLER, a native-born citizen of Pickaway County, is one of the leading farmers of Walnut Township, where he has a good farm pleasantly located on section 10. Our subject was born in Harrison Township January 30, 1845, and is a son of .John M. and Mary A. (Cummins) Spindler. His father was for many years, until his death, a prominent and greatly honored citizen of this county. Ile was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1818, and was a son of Mathias and Elizabeth Spindler, who were of German origin, and with whom he cane to Ohio when he was a young man. The family settled in Franklin County, where he remained a short time, and then entered the teacher's profession, for he was well educated, and he was engaged at that several terms, teaching mostly in Pickaway County. he subsequently owned and operated a sawmill and a gristmill on Walnut Creek, on section 5, Walnut Township, where his widow still resides, he was an active figure in local public life, and was one of the leaders among the Republicans. Although the majority of his fellow-townsmen (lid not agree with him in politics, they honored him as a man, and occasionally showed their confidence in him by electing him to some important office. He served as Justice of the Peace upwards of twenty years, and he also was Trustee of Walnut Township at one time. He was once brought forward as candidate for Representative, but being oil tile Republican ticket, he was defeated on account of his Republicanism. He was public-spirited and progressive, and earnestly in favor of whatever would elevate society or advance the interests of the county. Ile was identified with the Grange as an intelligent member, and he was a valued J member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he held the office of Trustee for several years. In his death, September 9, 1880, the community suffered a severe loss. The mother of our subject was born in Harrison Township, in 1821, and is a daughter of William and Mary Cummins, early settlers of that tow ship. She is the mother of eleven children, whom seven are living, namely: George, John W.: Mary J., wife of William Hummel; Ann E.: l:mma, wife of George C. Morrison; Elizabeth, wife of C. S. Perry, and Lucy. John W., who is a graduate, of the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware at Superintendent of the Public Schools at Winfield, Kan. George Spindler has passed the most of his life in Pickaway County, the family removing to Walnut Township when he was very young. His early education was obtained in the district school, and at the age of sixteen he entered Wesleyan University at Delaware. He was a close student that institution one year, winning a good reputation for scholarship, and then the breaking out of the war caused a change in his plans, and he obliged to give up his studies. In the summer I861, he enlisted in the one hundred days' service PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 167 as a member of Company C, One hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio Infantry, and did guard duty, principally with the Army of the Potomac, and was at the front about four months. his military career is commemorated by his connection with the Parsons' Post No. 670, G. A. R., at Nebraska, Ohio, as one of its prominent members, he holding the position of Quartermaster. After leaving the army, our subject turned his attention to teaching, and won local distinction as an educator of no mean ability. He taught his first school in the winter of 1864-65, and taught continuously every winter until 1872, and one winter after that. He had a predilection for agricultural pursuits, and has since devoted himself to farming, doing a good business asa general farmer, and having an excellent farm of one hundred acres of land, which is well cultivated, and the improvements are of a good class. Mr. Spindler stands high in social and religious circles, and in him the Republican party of this section finds one of its most devoted adherents. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, which he served as Trustee, and he has done much for the welfare of the church. The marriage of our subject with Miss Alice A. Culp was celebrated May 11, 1869, and has been productive of mutual felicity. Among its blessings arc the five children that have been born to them, to whom they have given these names: Charles E., Della, Mamie S., Emma A. and John L. Mrs. Spindler is a native of Walnut Township, and a daughter of Lewis and Sophronia Culp. BENJAMIN HARRISON, a highly respected farmer residing in Range Township, Madison County, Ohio, was born in Ross County, this State, February 8, 1815, and is a son of Batteal and Elizabeth (Scott) Harrison. Our subject is a distant relative of President Harrison. This grandfather, Benjamin Harrison, served in the Revolutionary War, and his father was a soldier in the War of 1812, under William Henry Harrison. He was born about 1780, and when he was a young lad his parents moved from Virginia to Kentucky, but he remained with an uncle on account of the Indians in the locality to which his father went. In 1797, he accompanied his uncle's family to Belmont County, Ohio, where he was reared. At one time he went to join his father, who had removed to Missouri, but hearing that his mother was dead gave up the trip. He then joined the army, as before stated, and served as recruiting officer at Chillicothe, Ohio. During that time he was married, February 3, 1814, to Elizabeth Scott. During a portion of that time, he was Captain and commanded a company. Our subject was the eldest of their six children, all of whom grew to mature years, and had families, while three are still living. Two sons, Matthew Scott and John Joseph, served in the War of the Rebellion. The latter was taken a prisoner and died in Georgia. Matthew was a Captain, and after the war removed to Saline County, Mo., where he died. Benjamin Harrison was taken by his parents to Fayette County when less than a year old. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, and has since given his attention to farming and stock-raising. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Martha M. Reeves, of Range Township. She was born October 30, 1815, and is a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Howsman) Reeves, the former a native of Maryland and the latter of Virginia. The union of our subject and his wife was celebrated March 9, 1837, and unto them have been born five children, four yet living: Mary E., born April 12, 1838, is the wife of S. W. Brown, of Fayette County, by whom she has two children; Batteal, born November 6, 1839, was married and died January 19, 1890, leaving five children; Angeline, born October 30, 1841, is the wife of M. L. Yates, a farmer of Range Township, and they have eight children; Isabel, born March 5, 1847, is the wife of lion. Joseph Martin, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; Winnie Scott, born May 12, 1850, is the wife of S. H. Farrar, of Holden, Johnson County, Mo., by whom she has four children. Mr. Harrison made his first purchase of land in 1843, a. tract on Deer Creek, Madison Township, 168 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Fayette County, where he resided some thirteen years. In 1850, he removed to Paint Township, where he resided five years, and since that time has made his home upon his present farm, purchasing seven hundred acres of land. e is one of the extensive laud-owners of the county, his possessions aggregating fifteen hundred acres, all in one body and situated in Madison and Fayette Counties. By his own efforts, his success has been achieved, and from a humble position he has worked his way upward to one of affluence. In 1836, Mr. Harrison cast his first vote for the Tippecanoe hero, and four years later again voted for him. In 1856, he supported Fillmore, and in 1860 voted for Bell and Everett. e has since followed the fortunes of the Democratic party, and has served as Township Trustee, was twice County Commissioner, and in 1870 was Land Appraiser, DARIUS J. BURNHAM, a native of Madison County, is one of its foremost citizens, possessing more than ordinary energy, enterprise, business talent and public spirit. He is not only one of the most extensive farmers and stockmen of the county, but he is one of its leading civic officers, holding various important public positions, and he is widely and favorably known. His home is one mile south of Hosedale, in Pike Township, on his large and finely appointed farm, where he carries on a big business in raising various kinds of stock. Mr. Burnham was born in the township where he still lives April 3, 1848. His father, John H. Burnham, is a native of Connecticut, and a son of Darius and Lucretia (Hunt) Burnham, who left their New England home when he was about two years old, and came to this county to found a new one in the wilderness. After attaining manhood, he was married, in Pike Township, to Miss Scelina Fullington, who was born in this township, of which her parents were early settlers. After marriage, the Burnhams located on an undeveloped tract of land, which he improved into a fine farm; first erecting a log house for the shelter of him. self and his bride, and afterward replacing it by a substantial frame residence. He became one of the largest land-holders in the county, owning at one time twelve hundred acres in Pike Township. e now lives in retirement at Mechanicsburgh, where he is serenely passing his declining years in the enjoyment of the wealth that is the fruit of his early labors. The amiable wife who walked by his side many years, encouraging him in his work and performing her part as a true helpmate, departed this life in 1889. Unto them were born eight children, six sons and two daughters, who grew to manhood and womanhood, and seven of whom are still living. Our subject is the third child and third son of his parents. e obtained the preliminaries of his education in the schools of Monroe Township, and finished his studies at the University of Delaware. He remained at home until he was twenty-one, and for a time was engaged in business with his father, trading and dealing in stock, and farming. October 4, 1876, he was wedded to Miss Mattie L., the eldest daughter of Henry and Eveline Burnham, of Pike Township, and her unselfish devotion to his interests has contributed not a little to his success in life and to his welfare generally. After marriage, Mr. Burnham at once established himself and his wife on the pleasant location, six miles east of Mechianicsburgh, where they have ever since made their home. his farm of nine hundred and fifty acres of choice land, all lying in Pike Township, is considered one of the best in all Madison County. The most of the improvements have been made by himself, and are first-class. The land is well drained, as he has put in about twenty-eight miles of tile within the last fifteen years, and is continually adding more. He is one of the most successful and largest stock farmers in the county, and feeds now about one hundred and fifty bushels of corn to his stock a day. He has fifteen hundred sheep, two hundred head of two-year-old cattle, two hundred hogs, and thirty fine horse His farm is supplied with a fine set of buildings, including a handsome residence, erected in 1877, and five neat dwellings for his work people, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 169 who, with their families, number twenty-five. Mr. Burnham also does a flourishing business in baling and shipping hay to various markets. Although his own private interests are so extensive and varied, our subject has had much to do with the administration of public affairs, and the same thoroughness, forethought, tact and able business management have been noticeable features in the discharge of his civic duties that have ever characterized his course in looking after his own concerns. He is President of the Central Ohio lair Association, which comprises Fayette, Union, Madison and Clarke Counties. He is now, and has been for many years, Trustee of Pike Township, and no man has done more personally for its advancement than he. He is one of the Directors f the Central Bank of Mechanicsburgh, of which is also a stockholder. In politics, he is an uncompromising Republican. JOSEPH SMITH, In this popular resident of Circleville Township, Pickaway County, we have the largest breeder of standard bred horses in the county, and one of the largest in the Scioto Valley. He is a native of Circleville and was born June 10, 1861. his father, Edward Smith, is mentioned elsewhere at length in this volume. After attending the public schools of his native home, young Smith entered, in 1877, the Notre Dame University at South Bend, Ind., where he passed nearly four years, pursuing a scientific course, and also completing his studies in the commercial line. After returning from college, the young man devoted himself to farming for some time, and after coming into possession of his present line stock farm made his home east of and adjoining the corporation line of Circleville. His one hundred and sixty-five acres of land are situated on the borders of the famous Pickaway Plains and are watered by the stream known as Hominy Creek. The soil is a rich, sandy loam and is one I of the best in the rich Scioto Valley. The care bestowed upon it keeps it up to the highest standards of that locality, which has so fair a reputation in agriculture and stock-raising. In 1890, Mr. Smith erected one of the most beautiful and commodious farm residences in the county, which he fitted up with all modern conveniences. His barn is of unique construction, being built seventy-two feet in diameter, with sixteen sides. In this can be stored fully one hundred tons of hay and straw, and it provides for the accommodation of a large number of horses. Nothing has been left undone to make this stock-farm a suitable home for the noble strains of horses which belong to Mr. Smith's stud. The most noted of his animals are " Montjoy," "Winmont," " Col. Wilkes," and “Pallidus," and their pedigree is such as to make their owner justly proud. The grounds about the residence of this prosperous man are handsomely laid out, and are to be shaded by elegant young maple, elm, and horse-chestnut trees. A half-mile regulation race track is kept in elegant shape, and there the speed of the young animals is developed. e does his own training, and gets all the speed out of the animal that horse nature and good breeding have endowed him with. A specialty is made of breaking colts to harness, and plentiful accommodations are furnished for the animals of other breeders during the season. The famous "Montjoy," who is registered as No. 13,003, stands at the head of the Sunnyside stock farm. He is a bay Horse, and was foaled May 15, 1887, his sire being "Gen. Withers " and his dam "Alice Medium." Like all of the horses upon this farm, "Montjoy " is of the Hambletonian strain, and Mr. Smith is the proud possessor of about fifty of these excellent standard-bred annuals, counting horses and colts. From his earliest boyhood, he has evinced an inborn love of and appreciation for a fine horse, and he has shown exceptional ability in their care and breeding. Other branches of business have not been overlooked by this enterprising young man, as he is a stockholder ill the Circleville Electric Light and Power Company of which corporation he is also a Director and Vice-president. In 1888, he es- 170 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tablished the Esmeralda Cornmeal Mills, which are now owned and operated by the firm of J. S. Smith & Brothers, a firm of which he is the senior member. These mills have e capacity of two hundred and fifty barrels per day, and their entire product is shipped to foreign countries. In his political views, our subject is a Democrat, but is not an aspirant for office, and no more active in public affairs than is always becoming in a man who takes a genuine interest in the prosperity of his home and State. Mr. Smith was married in Corning, Ohio, January 2, 1890, to Miss Mary Corcoran, who is a native of Frostburgh, Md., and a daughter of Thomas Corcoran, who was for some years Superintendent of the Sunday Creek Coal Company, and is now Superintendent of the H. D. Turney & Co. Mining Company, of Shawnee. This gentleman is an expert miner, and thoroughly understands prospecting for coal. He educated his daughter at the St. Mary's Academy at Columbus, Ohio. This young couple are the happy parents of one daughter, Mary, whom they are bringing up in the faith of their fathers, that of the Roman Catholic Church, both being members of St. Joseph's Church at Circleville. Few men are doing more for the development of Pickaway County than Joseph S. Smith, and he is keeping pace with the older and better known stock farmers in developing the American trotter. THOMAS C. TIPTON, M. D., of Williamsport, Deer Creek Township, Pickaway County. This worthy gentleman is a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Tomlinson) Tipton, and was born at Pleasant Ridge farm near Harrisburg Township, Franklin County, Ohio, September 10, 1827. He attended the neighborhood schools until his education had reached a point when he desired something better, and in 1844 he went to Delaware and attended the Ohio Wesleyan University. e was obliged to pay his own way, which he did by teaching school during his vacations, and thus was enabled to attend college rive years. Applying himself closely to study, he acquired a good, thorough, general education. But he had an ambition beyond this and a desire to lead a professional life. Disadvantages were again in the way of our young student, but he overcame them. He was unable to take, as he desired, a course in some medical college, but while teaching he devoted his spare time to reading and studying in his brother's office in Darbyville. he continued in this way for several years, and at length was enabled to go to Columbus, where he had enlarged opportunities. He studied for a time under Dr. R. L. Howard, and entered the Starling Medical College, where he was graduated with high honors February 22, 1852. After his graduation, Dr. Tipton went to Darbyville, and entered into practice as a partner of his brother. Some time after this, he removed to Williamsport, and has established himself in a lucrative practice, and has made his home here ever since, with the exception of the time he was in the war and three years thereafter. In 1862, Dr. Tipton entered the army as Assistant Surgeon of the One Hundred and Thirteenth Ohio Regiment and remained in that capacity until the close of the war. At its close, he resolved to try his future professional duties in Franklin County, but after a residence there of three years, returned to Williamsport. Dr. Tipton, as a man and a physician, is held in the highest esteem by his fellow-citizens of the village and neighborhood. He is not, nor ever has been, a politician or office-seeker, but takes considerable interest in all worthy political movements. His vote is cast for the success of the Republican party. In religion, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he has been a number of years one of the Stewards of his church at Williamsport. The Doctor is a strict temperance man in his habits, and has never tasted liquor and seldom prescribes it. The subject of this sketch was married to Marinda, a daughter of Horace and Jeanette (Wright) Loomis, and a native of Central College, Franklin County, Ohio, where she was born March 7, 1833. Three children have been born to this worthy couple: Lizzie, born December 16, 1855, died September 22, 1867; Alice, born in November, 1857; and Thomas, October 24, 1869. PORTRAIT ANT) BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 173 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN RENICK. The agricultural element forms the backbone to every community, for upon its character and work depends the real development of the resources of that section of the country; and if enterprise, industry and integrity are lacking, the whole body corporate will be lacking in vitality, strength and success. Among the prominent farmers of Darby Township, Pickaway County, we find Mr. Renick, a portrait of whom appears on the opposite page. This county is his native home, as he was born in Jackson Township, December 5, 1808. He was reared on the home farm, which at that early day was located in a wilderness, and encountered the many difficulties of frontier life. Indians were numerous, as were also wild animals, and the hardships which the family passed through have made a lasting impression upon his mind. Ile remembers distinctive the time two Indians came to their home and begged buttermilk, and on another occasion when two of them were found stealing corn, and he and a brother reminding them of their crime, one of them drew a large knife and pursued them. Benjamin F: Renick was educated, as were many of the pioneer lads, in the little old log schoolhouse, with its open fire-place in one end and slab seats and desks. It was conducted on the subscription plan, and the teacher boarded around among the pupils. Young Renick had to walk two miles through the woods in attending this temple of learning, which luxury was afforded him during the winter months only, as his services were needed upon the farm in the summer. he was often sent to mill on horseback, and performed many similar duties. The family were not provided with many of the luxuries such as are common to the farmers of the present day, their main food consisting of mush and milk and corn bread, but little wheat being -round at that time. When a ]ad, our subject took a load of wheat, with a four-horse team, to Gallipolis, seventy-five miles distant, and traded one bushel of that cereal for an equal amount of salt. The remainder of his load he disposed of at fifty cents per bushel. Money being very scarce, his mother would provide him with a luncheon which would last one week—the time required for the trip. 8 When seventeen years of age, Mr. Renick engaged to drive one hundred head of cattle to Alexandria, near Washington, D. C., being forty days making the journey. He later made many trips to the Eastern markets on the same errand, and often went to Illinois and drove cattle to this State. When reaching his majority, our subject's father told himself and brother John that he would give them all they could raise on two hundred .ores of land which he owned near Darbyville. It is unnecessary to state that they willingly accepted tile offer, and continued so employed for the succeeding ten years, in which undertaking they were more than ordinarily successful, during that time handling considerable stock. Mr. Renick fed and drove to New York the first corn-fed fat cattle ever driven from Illinois. In the fall of 1837, Air. Renick purchased his present property, which consisted of twelve hundred acres of land, almost all of which was in timber and brush, with occasional skirts of prairie. e made his home for several years in a hewed-log house, and when that was destroyed by fire, erected his present beautiful frame residence, which is furnished in a most tasty and comfortable manner. He had dealt very largely in stock, but meeting with reverses in fortune, was compelled to sell some of his property. His specialties in stock-raising were cattle, hogs, and sheep, having as many as one thousand head of the latter animals at one time. In the fall of 1840, Miss Sarah Williams became the wife of our subject, and to them were granted a family of four children, namely: Milton. Vincent, Mary, and Cynthia. They all grew to mature years, and are now deceased. Mrs. Renick died when about thirty-five years of age, and in 1855 our subject was married to Mary Taylor, who was born in Madison County, this State. Of that union were born the following children, all of whom are living, and named respectively: Sarah (Mrs. Dr. Kirkendall), Seymour, Amanda (Mrs. Carpenter), Job R., .Jennie, at home, B. Franklin and Warner. Mr. Renick is the possessor of two, hundred acres of land, which his industry has placed under excellent cultivation, drained and fenced. The es- 174 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Tate is managed by his son Job, although he gives his personal supervision to its improvement. e watched with great interest the gradual evolution of this section from its primitive wildness into cultivated fields and prosperous farms, and has done his full share in bringing about the transformation, having lived in Pickaway County for eighty-four years. He is widely and favorably known throughout its limits, and his friends are as numerous as his acquaintances. Religiously, our subject is a member of the Presbyterian Church. His views in political affairs lead him to cast his vote with the Republican party. He keeps thoroughly informed upon current events of interest, and is well-read and intelligent. Notwithstanding the fact that this county has about one thousand Democratic majority, he was elected County Commissioner one term, and has served many years as Township Trustee and Treasurer. He took a very active part in the political campaign of 1840, at which time hundreds of horsemen attended the meetings. He has contributed liberally of his means for the development of his community, and is looked upon as one of the progressive and popular residents of the county. CHARLES H. MURRAY. There is no one feature that tends so much to give a city a reputation for progress as the facilities afforded both residents and visitors for transacting business and thus adding pleasure to convenience. Prominent among the establishments of Washington Court House may be mentioned that owned and managed by Mr. Murray, and located at No. 228 East Court Street. The dimensions of the building are 110x22 feet, the first floor being stocked with a complete line of furniture, while the second story contains a well-selected stock of carpets. In addition to furniture and carpets, Mr. Murray carries on an undertaking business, for which he has excellent facilities in his establishment. Mr. Murray was born in Greenfield, Highland County, Ohio, June 5, 1853, the son of Samuel C. and Emma (Allen) Murray. His father was born in Ross County, three miles from the village of Greenfield, of which Grandfather Murray was a pioneer. He was a prominent citizen of the place, and there engaged in the harness and saddlery business for many years. he and his wife reared a large family of children, concerning whom the following is recorded: Frank was a resident of Washington Court House for twenty years. but died at Topeka, Kan., in 1885; Owen. formerly a resident of Washington Court House, is deceased; Carrie married Fay Baldwin, who is Cashier of the Highland County Bank; Russell is engaged in business as an undertaker at Frankfort, Ross County; Samuel, who for fifteen years was a druggist at Washington Court House, now resides in Kentucky. sixty miles south of Cincinnati. Fannie is at Greenfield, and Harry resides in Cincinnati. The father and mother still survive and are esteemed throughout the community where they have spent their entire lives. They are faithfully devoted to the welfare of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which they are members. An attendant for some years at the public schools of Greenfield, our subject has gained hi, education, however, principally through close observation and experience. After serving an apprenticeship of three years at the carriage-making trade, and later learning the cabinet-maker's trade in Greenfield, he engaged in business at Bainbridge, and was also for a time in the employ of Stewart & Meek, of Washington Court House. For six years, he carried on a successful business as an undertaker and dealer in furniture at Bainbridge, after which he sold out and opened; a store at Washington Court House in 1881. It was not long until he bad built up a successful business in the furniture and undertaking line, to which, in January, 1890, he added a carpet department. e has purchased the substantial brick building occupied by his store and expects soon to put in a fine glass front and make other improvements. A Democrat in politics, Mr. Murray has no time to devote to public offices, although qualified to discharge official duties with credit to him. self. In his social connections, he is identified PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 175 with Temple Lodge and Fayette Encampment, I. O. O. F., and the Knights of Pythias. The lady who became the wife of our subject May 10, 1880, and who has since been his cheerful and devoted helpmate, bore the maiden name of Sina V. Logan, and was horn at Washington Court House in March, 1858. her father, Capt. Wilson Logan, was killed during active service in the late war, and her mother, who is a daughter of Judge Joel Bearrnan, still resides in Washington Court House. Mrs. Murray is an accomplished lady and is especially proficient in music, having been a student in the Conservatory of Music at Cincinnati. In their religious preference, Mr. and Mrs. Murray are attendants at and supporters of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are generous contributors to all charitable measures. They are the parents of two sons, Shepherd and Fay. S. C. HELMICK M. D. Among the prominent citizens of Commercial Point, Pickaway County, we find the name which appears at the head of this paragraph. He is well known throughout all this community, as besides his professional labors, he carries on a drug store and is the Postmaster of the village. he acquired a more than local fame in the latter capacity last year, through the fact that he was presented with a gold watch by the management of the Ohio State Journal, of Columbus, on account of having secured for their weekly issue over one hundred subscribers at his post-office. He is a most zealous and enthusiastic Republican and a stanch adherent of his party. Dr. Helmick was born in Zanesville, Ohio, June 1, 1818, and his father, William Helmick, was also a native of Ohio, while his grandfather, Isaac. was horn in Pennsylvania, and came to this State at a very early date, locating in Franklin County. There he practiced his procession as a physician, and, lived to a very advanced age. His son William was a keel-boat captain in early life, and took boats from Zanesville, Ohio, to New Orleans. He also served as Deputy Sheriff for a number of years, and lived to reach the age of seventy. He was an earnest Republican in his political views. Rosanna Corbus was the maiden name of her who became the mother of our subject; site was a native of Maryland, who came with her parents, when only eighteen months old, to Zanesville when it consisted of only a few log cabins. Her eight children were Isaac, Elizabeth, James, Augusta, Rose A., Anna, Jane. and our subject. She lived to reach the age of eighty-one years, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church most of her life. Her father, W. Corbus, was a native of Maryland, and became a pioneer of Muskingum County, Ohio. The village schools and Small's Commercial College, of Zanesville, supplied the educational advantages of our subject up to his nineteenth year. After graduating from the last-named institution, in February, 1869, he began to read medicine at Harrisburgh, Franklin County, under his uncle, Dr. Joseph Helmick, who gave his young relative tile full benefit of his knowledge and experience. During the three years which he spent with his uncle, the young man also attended one course of lectures at the Starling Medical College of Columbus, and completed his course in the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati the winter following, 1872. He located at Baltimore, Fairfield County, this State, where his uncle, Dr. Luke Helmick, had just died after a successful practice of forty years, and here the young man continued for three years. Upon the 10th of November, 1875, Dr. S. C. Helmick located in Commercial Point and has here carried on a general practice since that time. His drug store was opened in 1881, and during the same year he received the appointment of Postmaster from President Garfield. This office he has held continuously since, with the exception of four years of Cleveland's administration. The drug-store building was put up by him in 1881. The Doctor was married June 4, 1873, to Margaret C. Chenoweth, who was born in Harrisburgh, Franklin County, Ohio, September 15, 1816, where her father, Elijah Chenoweth, Jr., was a farrier, and where he owned some twelve hundred acres of land. He died in Franklin County when about sixty-eight years of age: His father, Joseph H. 176 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Chenoweth, was the first white child born in the Scioto Valley, and the family has been prominent in that region for many years. At one time they owned more than six thousand acres of rich land along Darby Creek. Dr. and Mrs. Helmick have three children, Mayand, Arthur, and Sumner, all of whom are at home. The Doctor's extensive practice reaches over a large tract of country, and his reputation is most excellent in the profession. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Church, in which they are very active, and he is a live member of the Odd Fellows' lodge. He has been a Councilman and a member of the Board of Education for a number of years, and has held the offices of School Treasurer, and Trustee of the Methodist Episcopal Church. As Vice-president of the Central Ohio Medical Association, and as delegate to both State and National Medical Associations, he has been prominent. He has contributed papers before these associations upon the Clinical Thermometer, and upon various other topics of professional interest. JOHN FRY is an intelligent and progressive agriculturist, with a comprehensive knowledge of farming in all its branches, and he keeps his farm in Pickaway Township up to a high standard of cultivation, so that it compares favorably with the most productive in its vicinity. Although long a resident of Pickaway County, Mr. Fry is a native of Hocking County, born October 18, 1837, and he is a descendant of some of the original pioneer families of the State. The father of our subject, who was also named John Fry. was born in Virginia, September 17, 1796. He came to Ohio at a very early day in its settlement, and located at Lancaster in Fairfield County, when that city had but one house within its borders. He had come there with his father, a Virginian, who bore the same name as himself, and was a soldier in the Revolution. He died near Lancaster. The father of our subject became one of the pioneer farmers of the State, and for several years carried on his occupation in Hocking County. In 1852, he came to Pickaway County and passed his remaining years in Pickaway Township, dying here April 29, 1870. He acquired a goodly amount of property while a resident of Hocking County, and was quite an extensive land-holder there. he was also prominent in public life in that section, and for many years held the office of Justice of the Peace, and was an active member of the Masonic fraternity. He was married December 25, 1822, to Miss Malinda Friend. She was born in Fairfield County, November 22, 1802, and was a daughter of a pioneer family who had come from Kentucky to Ohio in the early years of its settlement. She died April 30, 1878, and in her death the Methodist Episcopal Church lost one of its most faithful members. Our subject was the seventh of the nine children of his parents, of whom five are still living. His early education was obtained with some difficulty, as school facilities were limited, and sometimes he had to go four miles from home to attend the nearest school, which was taught in a log house. He came to this county with his parents, and always made his home with them while they lived. caring for them tenderly in their declining years. and since their death he has continued to reside on the old homestead. It is a valuable, well-ordered farm of one hundred and thirty-four acre pleasantly situated on section 10, Pickaway township, and the headwaters of Pumpkin Creek flow across one corner of it. Mr. Fry is in easy circumstances, and makes good use of his money, getting some enjoyment out of life with it instead of hoarding it. He has broadened his mind, not only by reading and careful observation, but by traveling to some extent. In 1881, he went to Europe partly for pleasure, and partly for the benefit of his health, which had become impaired by too close application to his business. He embarked at New York on a North German Lloyd steamer, bound for England, and he visited London, Liverpool, and other points of interest, making good use every minute of the two months that he was away and experiencing great pleasure and profit from his trip. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 177 Mr. Fry was happily married October 26, 1879, to Miss Ida M. Cook, a native of Bloomfield, this county. When she was a child, her parents, Amos and Elizabeth (Nigh) Cook, removed to Circleville, where she was educated. Her father was the son of a Pennsylvania farmer, and was born and reared in that State. Her mother was the daughter of early pioneers of Ohio, anti her father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and lost his life during that conflict. The greatest grief in the wedded life of Mr. and Mrs. Fry has been in the death of their little son John, who was born July 12, 1881, and passed out of life two months later. GEORGE J. MAY is numbered among the intelligent and thrifty farmers of Pickaway County, of which his father was a pioneer, and he has a well-managed and highly productive farm on section 21, Walnut Township. He is a native of Frederick County, Md., and was born June 1, 1832, a son of John A. and Magdalena (Rohrer) May. His father was a native of Loudoun County, Va., and was a gallant soldier in the War of 1812. His ancestors are said to have originated in France, while his wife's were Germans, and early settlers of Maryland, where she was horn. In 1836, John May brought his family from Maryland to Ohio, and cast in his lot with the pioneers of Pickaway County, settling in Walnut Township, and proving a valuable addition to their working force. He did well his part in redeeming the country from the forces of nature, and when he died, April 5, 1887, he left behind him a golden memory as a good citizen. He was father of a number of children, of whom these five are living: Christian, .John J., Frederick, George J.. and Melinda, wife of Solomon Burget. Our subject was a small boy of four years when his parents sought a new home in the wilds of this county, and his boyhood was passed in a log cabin amid the privations of pioneer life. He attended the early schools of Walnut, but the educational advantages in those pioneer institutions of learning were meager. He was early inured to hard work, having to perform the pioneer labor of felling trees to clear the land and prepare it for cultivation, and the experience he ten gained in farming has been helpful to him since he became a farmer on his own responsibility. He has control of one hundred and sixty-four acres of excellent land, of which seventy-six acres belong to himself, and the remainder to his wife. He is a prudent and capable manager, and keeps his farm up to a high state of cultivation, and has it amply supplied with a good class of improvements. e and his wife stand high in social circles, and are among the most prominent members of the United Brethren Church, which he at one time served as Class-leader, and he is now Trustee of the church. In politics, he is a straight Republican, and whatsoever will benefit the county meets with his hearty approval. March 21, 1858, is the date of the marriage of our subject with Miss Mary Heim, a native of Pickaway County, born July 31, 1840, and a daughter of John and Susanna Heim. Her parents were early settlers of Walnut Township. They had three children, of whom she and her brother William are the survivors. Her marriage with our subject has been productive of mutual happiness and has been blessed with six children, named as follows: William, John L. (Postmaster at East Ringgold), Nelson H., Milton F., Calvin M. and Layman. GEORGE W. PATTON. Among the prominent and enterprising citizens of Washington Court House, none is more worthy of note than he whom we here name, who occupies the responsible position of Sheriff of Fayette County. He was elected to that position in 1888 and so efficiently did he perform the duties imposed upon him that he was re-elected in 1890. He is a genial and friendly gentleman and exhibits rare ability in his special department. The original of this sketch was born in Greene Township, Fayette County, January 7, 1810, and is the son of Arthur and Elizabeth (Wood) Patton. 178 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. The father in early life was a farmer in Virginia and became identified with the interests of the Buckeye State in 1832. Our subject was given a good education in the common schools, and his father dying when he was a lad of ten years, he remained at home with his mother until his marriage, after which she lived with him until her decease. George W. of this sketch operated the old farm in Greene Township, which contained two hundred and fifty well-improved acres. Ile had not been interested in politics previous to his election to the office of Sheriff until being made the incumbent of that position. January 7, 1889, he moved into the city, which has since been his home and where his friends are as numerous as his acquaintances. The lady whom our subject chose as his wife October 4, 1861, was Miss Mary D. Rowe, of Greene Township, this county, her birth occurring March 2, 1845. To them have been born a family of five children, viz: Elmer E., who is now the Deputy of his father; Minnie A., the wife of M. S. Merchant, of Dayton, this State; M. J., Zella V. and Ollie, at home with their parents. In social matters, our subject is a member of Fayette Lodge, A. F. & A. M. JOSEPH BELL. This name is not unknown to the people of Madison County, as he who bears it was born in Fairfield Township April 31, 1831. Although receiving only a common-school education, his natural mental ability caused him to advance in whatever field of labor he entered. e has held the office of Trustee of his township for three or four terms, was Assessor two terms, Clerk for one year, and was elected Justice of the Peace but refused to qualify. He has represented the Democratic party as delegate to various conventions and has always been closely identified with the progress of the county. Our subject is at present engaged in farming and stock-raising in Oak Run Township, and is the son of James D. and Elizabeth (Dewey) Bell. The father was a native of Virginia, having been horn near Richmond, and was brought to this State by his father, William Bell, who located in Ross County, where he resided for ten or twelve years and then made his home in Madison County, in what is now Oak Run Township. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and while residing in Ross County was married to Miss Dewey, who was born near Carlisle, Pa., and accompanied her parents on their removal to the Buckeye State when a child. The elder Mr. Bell was a farmer, and, like his father before him, voted the Democratic ticket. He was born October 6, 1802, while the mother of our subject was born June 15, 1804. e was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and was active in all the workings of that body. Joseph Bell, of this sketch, was the third in order of birth in a family of seven children. His eldest brother, William, is residing in Marshall County, Kan.; Jane A. married George Clouser and makes her home in Greenfield, this State; Benjamin is a contractor and builder of Columbus; Ann J. became Mrs. Leven Trout and lives in Sullivan County, Ind.; George resides at Sabina, this State, and while serving in the Union army lost one leg; James is residing in Allendale, this State. The parents of these children died in 1843, the father passing away January 1, and the mother two months later. Our subject was eleven years old at the time of the death of his parents and was then taken into the home of an uncle with whom he remained for five years, and then began to work for himself. When reaching his majority, he was the possessor of a horse and $100 in money. September 23, 1852, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Amos, who was born in London, January 18, 1833, to Robert C. and Mary (Wilson) Amos. The young couple resided for a year with the parents of Mrs. Bell, when our subject erected a log cabin, in which they resided for a time, and then, returning to the home of Mr. Amos, our subject worked his farm in partnership for three years. At the end of that time, he again located on his own property and there resided until the death of Mr. Amos, when they took up their abode on their present farm. Margaret, Mrs. Bell's PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 179 only sister, married our subject's brother William and resides in Kansas. Mr. Amos was born in Maryland September 22, 1801, and died July 12, 1859, while Mrs. Amos, who was born in Virginia, July 28, 1810, departed this life September 19, 1844. The present farm of our subject, which includes two hundred and thirty-five acres, was inherited by his wife from her father. The following-named eight children have been ho n to Mr. and Mrs. Bell: Wesley H., who died October 2, 1860; Mary E., who became the wife of R. N. Mowry, departed this life October 4, 1885, leaving one son, Joseph B., who was born September 12, 1885, and now resides with our subject; Emma J., who died March 22, 1866; Eva Ann, who married A. L. Fitzgerald, has one son, Freddie; Minnie F., who is the next in order of birth, is now Mrs. W. E. Talor; Sallie M. departed this life May 2, 1876; James F., who is successfully engaged as a school teacher, and Lee Amos, who is at home with his parents. J. M. BALDWIN. A beautiful farm of three hundred and twenty acres, pleasantly located in Madison Township. Fayette County, three miles from Cook, is the home of this well-known farmer and stock-raiser. Ile was born on this place August 20, 1815, the land having formerly been owned by his grandfather, Capt. John Baldwin, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and a native of Virginia. While residing there and during those troublous times, he raised a company, pledging his own means for their pay. He served through the entire war under Washington. receiving his pay in Continental money and a land warrant. The money being valueless, Capt. Baldwin was obliged to sell his possessions in the Old Dominion in order to keep his promise to the soldiers. Thus left without resources, he came to Ohio and located in Fayette County, where he was obliged to part with half of his land in order to get his warrant placed. His advent into the county was made in the in the spring of 1812 and the succeeding fall he was followed by his large family of fourteen children. Capt. Baldwin departed this life in 1820, his remains being buried on the ground laid off by himself on the farm which our subject. occupies. Jonah Baldwin, the direct progenitor of our subject, was born in 1773, and is the twin brother of William. he grew to mature years in Virginia, and was there married, in 1803, to Mary Bland, by whom he became the father of eight children, viz: John, Catherine, Hannah, Margaret, J. M., Joseph, ,Susan and Nancy. The children were all given a good education, the sons aiding their father in clearing and improving the home farm. Mr. Jonah Baldwin served his fellow-townsmen as Constable, and his eldest son held the office of .Justice of the Peace for a number of terms. The father of our subject, who was born March 7, 1773, died September 13, 1850, while his wife, who was born August 19, 1783, departed this life October 16, 1886. Mr. Baldwin of this sketch is the proprietor of two hundred and forty acres of land in Adams County, Ind., and has purchased the interest of all the heirs of the old homestead, with the exception of his sister Margaret's share. Like his father and grandfather before him, he is a Democrat in politics, and during his incumbency of the office of Constable he performed the duties of that position in a most satisfactory manner. FRANK L. STUTSON. The most popular and extensive mercantile establishment in Washington Court House is located on Main Street, opposite the Court House, and is under the able management of the owner and proprietor, the subject of this sketch. The building, which has a frontage of eighty-five feet and a depth of one hundred and sixty-five feet, is furnished with a complete stock of dry goods, the specialties being fine dress-goods, trimmings, ladies', misses' and children's shoes, millinery and ladies' cloaks. Employment is given to eighteen persons, and cash carriers and all modern improvements for facilitating the work have been introduced. The store has occupied its present location for ten 180 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. years and is known for miles around as one of the most reliable establishments in Southern Ohio. Mr. Stutson was born in West Jefferson, Madison County, Ohio, January 29, 1851, the son of James and Mary J. (Wilson) Stutson. His father, who was born and reared in Massachusetts, came to Zanesville, Ohio, when a young man, and there engaged in the mercantile business, being at one time the leading merchant in the city. About 1841, he came to Madison County, where he resided until his death. Our subject received a good education in his native place, and in his boyhood clerked for his brother, T. J., then a merchant of West Jefferson, but now President of the Central Bank of London. Our subject remained with him until he attained his majority, when he embarked with another brother in the dry-goods business at Lancaster, remaining in that connection for some years. In 1881, they opened the present store in Washington Court House, and upon the death of his brother in 1887, our subject succeeded him in the business, and has since continued at the head of the flourishing establishment. At the time of the cyclone, September 8, 1885, the firm occupied a large brick store on Court Street, which was completely wrecked, together with the whole stock, including a full line of new fall goods, causing a loss of almost $8,000. No lives were lost by the disaster, although our subject and eight others were in the building at the time of the storm. It fortunately happened that the present structure was in process of erection, and the firm transported their goods on wheelbarrows to the new store, doing business while the place was being plastered, shelved and finished. Since then, Mr. Stutson has enlarged the store to accommodate the increasing demands of his customers, and it is conceded that he has now the largest business of the city. The secret of the success which has rewarded his efforts may be found in the fact that he has given his business his undivided and unceasing attention. The marriage of Mr. Stutson and Miss Mary E. Stimson, of La Fayette, Ind., took place January 3, 1884, and they have two bright and intelligent children, Clara Louise and Janet Lorain. In his social affiliations, Mr. Stutson is identified with Fayette Lodge, F. & A. M. Throughout his career, he has displayed due caution and care in managing his affairs, and at the same time has been bold and resolute in financial matters, his good sense, accurate judgment and cool calculations rarely leading him astray in his transactions. CHRISTIAN VOLKA. Among the thriving business establishments of La Fayette, Madison County, mention should certainly be made of that of which Mr. Volka is proprietor. It is devoted to the sale of general merchandise, is supplied with a good stock in each department. and is the seat of a fine trade conducted according to the most improved business principles. He is well known in the country contiguous to La Fayette, as he has been engaged in trade here since 1865. The parents of our subject, John and Catherine (Krouse) Volka, were natives respectively of Germany and France. They accompanied their parents to the New World when young and when reaching mature years were married in Columbus, this State. The father was a shoemaker by occupation, which trade he followed in that city, Cincinnati and St. Louis; he departed this life in the Queen City of smallpox. Only two members of the parental family lived to reach mature years, Catherine and Christian. The original of this sketch was born in St. Louis, Mo., November 25, 1837, and after the death of his father returned with his another to Columbus, where he attended school. When a lad of ten years, he accompanied his parents to Deer Creek Township, which has since been his place of residence, and where, by the exercise of unflagging industry,, indomitable energy and ceaseless perseverance. he has acquired a competence. Mr. Volka and Miss Lucetta Bell, of Champaign County, this State, were united in marriage January 8, 1863. The lady, who was born May 12, 1814, was the daughter of Mr. Daniel and Rebecca (Wagoner) PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 183 Bell, the former of whom was a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Bell had a family of eleven children; the father died in December. 1868, in La Fayette, where also the mother's death occurred, November 29, 1858. Of the five children born to our subject and his wife only two survive. viz: Nettie, now Mrs. Robert Smith. and John C. Mr. Volka, when starting out for himself was employed as a clerk in London for several years and, being economical and industrious, he soon accumulated a sufficient sum to enable him to launch out in business on his own account, and. as before stated, he has been connected with tile mercantile interests of La Fayette since 1865. In polities he takes a goodly amount of interest and votes with the Democratic party. e served on the School Board in Deer Creek Township, and under an active co-operation much was accomplished to benefit the public schools which he regards as the surest means of improving the race. The mother of our subject was a second time married, her Husband being Christian Bierhaugh; site is now deceased, her death occurring in this township in 1887.H HON. WILLIAM T. CONKLIN Among the prominent, popular and influential citizens (if Pickaway County selected for representation in this work, we take pleasure in present in to our readers the biography and portrait of the subject of this sketch, who is a well-known resident of Madison Township, junking his home upon section 23. He is a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, where he was born, .January 15, 1817, and is a son of Joseph and Annie (Caton) Conklin, both of whom were natives of Washington County, Pa.. His paternal ancestors are said to have been from Wales, and his maternal ancestors are supposed to have come front Ireland. Joseph Conklin, tile father of our subject, emigrated from Pennsylvania with his family early in the present century and settled in the new country in Fairfield County, Ohio, there taking up pioneer life, he drove all the way a team of five horses and his wife journeyed on horseback, carrying a small child in her arms all through that long journey. He died in 1822 and his widow afterward married James Lambert. In 1825, William T. Conklin, with his mother, his stepfather and the children of the family, came to Pickaway County. Ohio, where he settled on section 14, Madison Township and grew to man's estate amid scenes of pioneer life, he has seen the deer and wild turkeys around his home in great numbers, and has experienced the hardships of pioneer life. Only two of the children of his parents now survive, his only sister living being Priscilla, wife of 'Thomas Black. With the exception of two years spent in the mercantile business at Ashville, Ohio, our subject has throughout life engaged in agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. His education was received in the early schools of Madison Township, and for a short time he studied in Central College, Franklin County. During five winters he devoted himself to teaching, in which lie was very successful, and he throughout life maintained a course of reading which has had a broadening and educative tendency. Mr. Conklin was married in June, 1859, to Elizabeth Baum, who was born in Madison Township, Pickaway County, March 9, 1825. Her parents, Christian and Sarah (Shook) Baum, were natives of Pennsylvania, and were early settlers in this county, making their home in the forest among the earliest pioneers. Six of their seven children are still living, namely: Joseph, George, Lewis, Mrs. Conklin, John, and Mary (the wife of Samuel Posey). To Mr. and Mrs. Conklin were born three children, two of whom still survive, namely: Sarah A., wife of 1)r. Charles R. Pontius, who is a practicing physician at Fremont, Ohio, and Martha S., the wife of T. W. Baum, of Madison Township, this county. For many years Mr. Conklin served as .Justice of the Peace, for sixteen years as Township Treasurer, and for one year as Township 'Trustee. The broader political career of the Hon. Mr. Conklin began with his election to the State Legislature, where he served as a member front Pickaway County to the Fifty-ninth and Sixty- 184 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. first General Assembly, being a member of the House of Representatives. He was an earnest and successful advocate of the measure to secure an additional judge in his district. During his first term he served on the Committee on Military Affairs, also the Committee on Fees and Salaries, and was a most useful member of the House, serving his county with credit to himself and his constituents. A great affliction has fallen upon Mr. and Mrs. Conklin in the loss of sight experienced by that lovely and intelligent lady, so that she who was for so many years Mr. Conklin's most earnest and active helpmate, is now to a considerable extent set aside from the activities of life. She is a member of the Lutheran Church and one whose character and life are warmly admired by all who know her. Mr. Conklin has over five hundred acres of land, which he has gained by his own efforts. He is identified with Lithopolis Lodge No. 169, F. & A. M., and has served as both Junior and Senior Warden of that body. He is a Democrat in his views and takes a keen interest in political movements. SAMUEL O. WILSON is Superintendent of the Fayette County Infirmary and is well fitted by character and ability for this responsible position. He is a native of Fayette County, born in Greene Township March 6, 1845, and is a son of Joel Wilson. His father was a Virginian by birth, and, when young, came to Ohio with his parents, who were among the early settlers of Greene Township. He married Eliza Wain, a daughter of Joseph Wain, who was a resident of the southern part of the county, his farm joining that of Joel Wilson. The Walns were also from Virginia. Of the five, children born to Joel Wilson and his wife, all grew to manhood and womanhood, and the three still living are Elizabeth, wife of Lawrence Patton; Nancy, wife of J. N. Moon, of Madison County, Iowa, and our subject. S. O. Wilson was educated in the district schools of his native township, and when his school days were over, he commenced life in earnest as a farmer, in which occupation he has always been interested. After his marriage in the spring of 1865, he continued his occupation in Wayne 'Township for eleven years. March 1, 1886, he was appointed Superintendent of the Fayette County Infirmary, and has been re-appointed every year since. When he entered upon the duties of his office, he had a hard task before him, as the place was in a very bad condition, the buildings were in bad order, the fences were poor and the farm had run down. But he has wrought a great change by his vigorous management, bringing to his work a clear and comprehensive mind, untiring diligence and unceasing vigilance in looking after matters under his jurisdiction, and the institution and the farm connected with it are now all that can be desired, the buildings kept in good repair and always neat and orderly; and the land by judicious cultivation raised to the highest state of productiveness. Formerly the amount of money turned into the county treasury from the infirmary was very small. The proceeds of the farm placed in the county treasury from that institution average from $3,000 to $4,000 per year. The cost per capita for keeping the inmates in the infirmary was $42.20, which, by the wise economy exercised by the Superintendent, was reduced for the year ending September 1, 1891, to $25.12, the second lowest rate in tile State, and at the same time the inmates were just as well fed and cared for as heretofore. Our subject is genial, polite, gentlemanly and hospitable, and is eminently humane and thoughtful in his conduct toward the people under his charge. He is ably assisted by his wife, who acts as matron, a position for which she has a peculiar gift, as she has an amiable, cheerful disposition, is invariably patient, kind and sympathetic, and has the ready tact so requisite in dealing with others. Both she and her husband have the full confidence of all concerned, and under their care the Fayette County Infirmary is said to be undoubtedly the best in the State. The marriage of our subject with Miss Sarah C. Pavey was solemnized May 18, 1865, and has resulted in the birth of five children, viz: Mattie, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 185 Harvey, Maggie, Fannie and Fred. Mrs. Wilson is a daughter of .Jesse Pavey, a native of Bourbon County, Ky., and at the time of his daughter's marriage a prominent farmer of this county. Mr. Wilson is a Republican in politics; in his social relations, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and religiously, he and his wife are members in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church. SHERMAN LEACH, M. D., a practicing physician and surgeon of Mt. Sterling, was born in this city May 30, 1864. His boyhood days were spent under the parental roof, and his literary education was acquired in the public schools, At the age of sixteen, he began clerking in a drug store, and three years later began the study of medicine. He entered the Starling Medical College of Columbus, pursuing a three-years' course and was graduated in March, 1887. While in college, he was also managing a drug store. He became an expert druggist and was paid a salary of $65 per month, and was allowed to attend the medical college six hours per day. After leaving school, he formed a partnership with Dr. W. H. Emery, of Mt. Sterling, Madison County, the connection continuing until his death. On the 9th of May, 1889, Dr. Leach wedded Florence M. Hornbeck, of Williamsport, Pickaway County, who was born in South Solon, September 3, 1869, and is a daughter of Marvin and Mary (Keyes) Hornbeck, both natives of Pickaway County. They are highly respected young people of this community, who hold an enviable position in social circles. The Doctor is local surgeon for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, and is a member of tile Madison County and Ohio State Medical Societies. he has been elected Professor of Rectal Diseases in the Ohio Medical University in Columbus, which was organized in 1892. He has prepared and read several papers before the medical societies and ranks high among his professional brethren. In politics he is a Republican, and is a member of the City Council and Treasurer of the village of Mt. Sterling. He is a Director of the Mt. Sterling Building and Loan Association, is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and has taken seven degrees in the Masonic lodge, e has the distinction of being the youngest Worshipful Master that has ever served in Mt. Sterling. Dr. Leach is emphatically a self-made man. He has made the most of his opportunities and has now the largest practice of any physician in Mt. Sterling, his income amounting to about $6,000 per year. WILLIAM T. LEACH, a prominent contractor and builder of Mt. Sterling, who is also engaged in the manufacture of artificial stone pavement, was born in Madison Township, Fayette County, Ohio, January 18, 1829. His parents, Robert and Eliza (Thomas) Leach, were both natives of Virginia, and came to Ohio with their parents when young. The father was a farmer and merchant and removed to Madison County when our subject was a lad of ten years. William grew to manhood in Pleasant Township, and acquired his education in the common schools. After attaining to man's estate, he was married on the 28th of January, 1851, to Miss Jane Bostwick, a native of Vermont, and a daughter of Fred C. Bostwick, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. By their union have been born five children: Mrs. I lay Newman, of Columbus. Ohio, who has two children: Frederick, a railroad employee in the West; Mrs. Eliza Hodges, who, with her three children, resides in Sterling; Sherman, the subject of the preceding sketch in this volume; and Robert, a resident of Chicago. The mother of this family died in October, 1876, and was laid to rest in Pleasant Cemetery. Mr. Leach continued to engage in farming for a number of years. Removing to McLean County, Ill., in 1854, he purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land, upon which he made his home until 1859. In that year,.he sold out and returned to Mt. Sterling, where he has since re- 186 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. sided, he is a natural mechanic, and while engaged in farming also worked at the carpenter's trade. For many years he has been connected with the building interests of Mt. Sterling and has erected many important buildings, including the residence and office of Mr. Sherman Leach. On the 17th of May, 1881, our subject was again married, his second union being with Maggie Baughman, who was horn in New Rolland, Ohio, October 2, 1854, and is a daughter of George W. and Elizabeth (Mitchell) Baughman. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania, and her mother of Virginia. By this union has been born one son: Herbert B., who was born in Mt. Sterling, August 2, 1885. Mr. Leach cast his first Presidential vote with the Whig party in 1852, but joined the Republican party on its organization, and supported John C. Fremont in 1856. Since that time he has been a stalwart Republican and keeps himself well informed on the questions of the day. He has served as Marshal for three years, was a member of the City Council for three years, was Clerk of the School Board six years, and the various duties of these offices he promptly and faithfully performed. With the Presbyterian Church he holds membership, while Mrs. Leach belongs to the Methodist Church. WALTER W. SHOOP. Upon a beautiful elevation on Circle Avenue, surrounded by grounds one none in extent and finely laid out in lawns, will be noticed a commodious residence, which is undoubtedly one of the most attractive homes in Washington C. H. Not only is its exterior appearance pleasing to the eye, but the interior arrangements are in harmony with the laws of beauty, and on every hand the good taste of the inmates is apparent. This is the home of Mr. Shoop and his family, who arc well and favorably known throughout the community. The son of a farmer. Mr, Shoop was born in Bainbridge. Ross County, this State, March 16;. 1816, his parents being J. M. and Mary E. (Snyder) Shoop. he commenced his education in the district schools of Clinton County, whither he was taken by his parents when about three years old. In 1856, when a lad of ten years, he came to this count and located on a farm near Jasper Mills, where he remained until after the death of his father in 1864, at the age of forty-six years. The parental family comprised nine children, of whom the following is noted: William CH. died in 1865; .James is now a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church and resides in Washington County. this state; Laura H. is the wife of William B. Hukill, of Missouri; our subject is the next in order of birth; Martha F. is the widow of Jacob Sollars, of Fayette County; Henry C. is engaged in the harness and saddlery business at Washington C. H.; Obis is the wife of George Mouser, of Fayette Count: and John D. is Superintendent of the city schools at Gibson, Ill. The mother of this family passed from earth in 186n, four years prior to the demise of her husband.   Upon leaving the farm, in 1870, our subject first engaged in business at the .Jasper Mills and was a grain dealer at that place for six years. About 1882, he removed to Washington C. H. and for several years was in the implement business, which he conducted with great success. After managing the business alone for a few years, he took into partnership J. H. Lawwill, the firm being Shoop & Lawwill. They continued to superintend their extensive interests for several years. when Mr. Shoop's health failing, he sold out to Mr. Lawwill, December 16, 1891. Since that time. he has been retired from active business cares. although in looking after his real-estate interest and in other duties, he still finds sufficient to occupy his time. In his social connections, Mr. Shoop is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. in which he has filled all the chairs.   He has also served successfully as District Deputy Grand Master for two terms; District Deputy Chief Patriarch and Captain of the Cantons; amid, in addition, is a Knight of Pythias. His wife, to whom he was married January 16, 1868, was known in her maidenhood as Laura Campbell and the daughter of Lenox Campbell, one of the early settlers of Fayette County. whose sketch PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 187 will he found elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Shoop are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which faith ,they have reared their two sons and two daughters: Werter, Ottie, Lenox and Bessie. JOHN T. KIRKENDALL, M. D., is a physician of high standing, who has raised himself to the front ranks of his profession by careful study and close attention to his business, and he enjoys a large and lucrative practice. He is also prominent as one of the leading citizens of Darbyville with whose public life he has been intimately connected in various important official capacities since he returned to this, his native town, after he had completed his medical studies. Dr. Kirkendall was born November 27, 1846, and is a descendant of one of the old pioneer families of Ohio. His father; William Kirkendall, was also a native of this State, born in one of the earliest pioneer homes of Ross County, in 1797. His father, a Virginian by birth, was an early settler of that county, and the father of our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the primitive schools of his day, which were held in rudely-constructed log houses. He was one of the original settlers of Darbyville, helped to lay out the streets of the village, and his name was associated with the early improvements of the place. He erected a hotel, and was engaged in its management until his untimely death at the age of fifty, which deprived the village of one of its most public-spirited and valued citizens, and the Methodist Church of one of its most liberal and zealous members. The maiden name of his wife was Mary J. Crego, and she too was a native of Ohio. They had four children, of whom these three grew to maturity: William, John T., and Fanny, Mrs. Fissell. The mother remarried, becoming the wife of Isaac Calendine, and died at the age of twenty-seven years, leaving one child by her second marriage, Lillie. She was a Christian and a consistent member of the Methodist Church. Our subject passed his early life in his native village, living with Dr. R. H. Tipton after the death of his parents until he was sixteen years old. He, then went to Madison County and worked on the farm of Oliver Mitchell until he was twenty-one years of age. Ambitious to improve his education, he next went to school at Lancaster, where he pursued a seven-months' course of study, and after that he began teaching at East Lancaster, Fairfield County. Ile taught there one term, and the ensuing twelve years was engaged in teaching in Pickaway County, having charge of a school in Darby Township seven years, and the remainder of the time exercising his vocation in Darbyville, Muhlenburg Township. Five years of the time that he was teaching he was assiduously reading medicine every leisure moment that he could snatch from his duties, Dr. Tipton being his instructor. Abandoning the work of teaching, he turned his attention to the general mercantile business in partnership with Mr. Fissell, under the firm name of Fissell and Kirkendall, and for two years was thus engaged. Resuming his old calling, he taught school one year, and read medicine with Dr. F. M. Black. He subsequently attended lectures at Starling Medical College, Columbus, and was graduated therefrom February 25, 1879. He entered upon the practice of his profession with a fine equipment for the life before him, years of careful study giving him an accurate knowledge of medicine in all its branches, and paving the way to the success that has followed, which makes him one of our most reputable and trusted physicians, with a large practice, covering miles of territory. After leaving college, he was in partnership with Dr. Black a year, but since then he has been by himself. The Doctor has one of the most attractive homes in Darbyville, which is presided over with consummate tact by his amiable wife, formerly Miss Sally Rennick, to whom he was wedded September 29, 1880. Mrs. Kirkendall was born September 16, 1856, in Darby Township, and is a daughter of Benjamin F. Rennick, now a resident of that township. Two children complete the household of our subject and his wife, Benjamin R. and Edward T. Dr. Kirkendall is in every way an honor to the 188 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. citizenship of his native village, in whose welfare he is deeply concerned, and he has done much to promote its higher interests. His fellow-citizens, knowing him so well, and appreciating his flue character, rare executive ability and progressive public spirit, have often called him to important civic positions. Thus he served as Mayor of the village four years, and as Councilman six years; has been School Director, and was School Examiner two years, appointed by Probate Judge Walk to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Cartright. He was Justice of the Peace for the township three years and Township Clerk one term in Darby Township. The Doctor is well informed on all political matters, and is a recognized leader among the Republicans of this section, his counsel being valued in the gatherings of the party, which he has faithfully served at various times as delegate to county, congressional and State conventions. Socially, his relations are with the Masonic order at Mt. Sterling, and he has taken the' Royal Arch Degree at London. Religiously, both he and his wife are active members of the Methodist Church, and he is Trustee of the church and the parsonage. WILLIAM GILL, a son of one who was a prominent pioneer of Pickaway County, is himself one of its leading farmers, occupying land in Salt Creek Township which has never been out of the family since the patent was obtained from the Government in the early days of the settlement of this ,part of the State. This pleasant old homestead is his birthplace, and here he first opened his eyes to its primitive surroundings, November 8, 1832. Capt. William Gill, the father of our subject, was born in Virginia July 8, 1792. He served with credit in the War of 1812, and at its close received a commission 'as Captain in the United States army, as he had shown especial ability as a leader, having enlisted as Captain of volunteers. He saw hard service in the Northwest, and was sent in charge of prisoners to Chillicothe, which was established as a fort for captives; he was subsequently made Commander of that prison. That was his first introduction to this part of the country, and he was so favorably impressed with it that he determined to settle here, and in 1817 selected Pickaway County for his future home, locating on land in Salt Creek Township. He resided here to within six years of his death, and then went to live with a daughter in Circleville, where he died, January 29, 1861, and thus passed away one of the old landmarks of the county, one who had been honored and reverenced not only as one of the leading pioneers and citizens of his day. but was held in great regard for his spotless character as a man. He was widely known and had many friends. The Captain was, at one time, one of the largest property holders of this section, owning nine hundred and twenty-seven acres of land in Salt Creek Township. He was Justice of the Peace for several years, and was also Associate Justice of the county for a number of years. The mother of our subject was Nancy Winship, and she was born in Berkeley County, W. Va., December 5, 1792, a daughter of the Hon. Win Winship, a native of England, who came to this country soon after the Revolution, and became a prominent merchant in Martinsburg. He also owned a mill there and some land. In 1801, he came to Ohio. and was appointed to fill the office of Register of Lands in the general land office at Chilhcothe, under President John Adams. He entered and owned a large tract of land in Ross, Pickaway, Champaign and Madison Counties, and finally located in Pickaway County, where he died in 1812. The mother of our subject died in 1876, in her eighty-fourth year. She was a Presbyterian in her religious views, and was firm in the faith until her death. There were three children in the family, of whom our subject is the youngest. The eldest is Win Winship, now living in Chicago. The second, Martha, who married John T. Jacobs, died in July, 1891. William Gill was reared on the farm that has always been his own. He obtained the preliminaries of his education in the little brick schoolhouse that was located in his district when he was PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 189 a boy, and he subsequently attended Mt. Pleasant Academy at Kingston a short time. At the age of twenty-one, he entered upon his successful career as a farmer on the old homestead. He has three hundred acres of excellent land in Salt Creek Township, that is well watered by Scipio Creek, a good part of it being held by patent from the Government and has never been bought or sold. It is historical ground, as here Lord Dunmore, in 1774, then Royal Governor of Virginia, camped on the north bank of Scipio Creek, at the time he was making his celebrated treaty with the Indians, whereby the Northwestern territory was thrown open to the whites for settlement. In plowing the land, silver buttons and bullets, relics of the English lord and his troops, have been uncovered and picked up from the soil in which they had been buried for more than a century. November 23, 1854, Mr. Gill was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Cushing, a lady of much intelligence and many pleasant attributes, who presides over their attractive home with true grace, cordially seconding his genial hospitality whenever friend or stranger comes within their gates. Mrs. Gill is a native of Lawrence County, Ky., and, like her husband, she comes of a distinguished ancestry. Her parents were Henry and Margaret (Ferguson) Cushing, natives respectively of Boston, .Mass., and Pennsylvania. Her paternal grandfather, Nathaniel Cushing, was born in Boston, coming of the old New England stock, and he was a Colonel in the Continental army during the Revolution, his commission, signed by his old commander, Gen. Washington, being still in possession of his family. He was also one of the famous tea party that threw the tea overboard in Boston Harbor. After the war, Col. Cushing came to Ohio as a member of the Belpre party, and settled there on a farm, which is still in possession of his descendants. He was one of the earliest pioneers of the State, and his bones now rest in its soil. His son Nathaniel died in early life; Henry, father of Mrs. Gill, became a prosperous farmer, and died here in 1861, at the age of eighty-four years; James V. was the second white child born in Ohio, and Mrs. Gill has a fine portrait of him. Thomas died in early life, James was a miller in Zanesville for many years, being in partnership with Alfred Martin. In 1831 he succeeded in cornering the wheat market in New York City. e died in Zanesville, where he had accumulated a fortune. The mother of Mrs. Gill died in 1882, at the age of eighty-four years. Both she and tier husband were stanch Presbyterians and active in the church for many years. The latter had served in the War of 1812. They were the parents of four children, and were both of long-lived races, his grandfather living to be nearly a hundred years old. Mr. and Mrs. Gill have six children: Martha, wife of L. C. McPherson, editor of the Massillonian, at Massillon; Annie H., at home with her parents; Mary W., also at home; William H., who is with the John Shelito Dry Goods Co., and is married; Alice, a teacher at Adelphi; and George, at home. Mr. Gill is a man of much prominence and influence in his native county, as he is clear brained, with an intellect steadily poised, possesses accurate judgment, and is sensible and well informed. He takes a deep interest in politics, and keeps himself thoroughly posted in all the ins and outs of political life, believes in the Third-party movement, and is strongly in favor of the Farmers' Alliance, which has in him one of its leaders in this section. JOHN E. FERREL. This honored gentleman, who makes his home in Perry Township, Pickaway County, is a native of Clinton County, Ohio, where he was born August 5, 1858, and is a son of William H. and Mary (Taylor) Ferrel, both natives of the Buckeye State. The father was a merchant the most of his life but now is engaged in the real-estate business in Clinton County, Ohio. Three children were born to the parents of our subject, he being the first-born. He is of Scotch-Irish descent and also comes of a long-lived race. John E. was afforded the privileges of the common schools until he reached the age of sixteen years, at which early age he left home and commenced an active life on his own account. He 190 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. secured his start by trading a horse which he possessed for some hill land, and this he worked diligently for one year, when he was enabled to buy a team, and then engaged in teaming. This latter occupation he followed for three years, when he learned telegraphy. He was very quick to learn and soon became an adept and was immediately given an office, and is now one of the oldest operators and agents in the employ of the Pan Handle Company. He has been in the employ of this company since I880, and has had charge of the office at New Holland since that time. He has also been agent for the Adams Express Company at tins place since 1881. Aside from his railroad duties, Mr. Ferrel is engaged in the coal business and controls Al the trade in his town, and handles upwards of one hundred and twenty-five carloads a year. The worthy subject of this life notice was married August 9, 1883, to Miss Carrie Davis, a daughter of Dr. B. R. Davis, of New Holland. One child has been born of this union, who bears the name of Nina. Mr. Ferrel is a thoroughgoing business mall and has plenty of hush, pluck and perseverance, which always insure success in any undertaking. HENRY LEASE, a well-known resident of Union Township, Fayette County, is a son of Joseph Lease, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, July 25, 1811. The latter's father, George Lease, was one of the first settlers in Ross County, and he and his wife came to that county on horseback from Virginia at an early day. George Lease had a family of eight children, and all but one grew to mature years and settled in Hardin and Ross Counties. In Ross County, George Lease bought land and reared his family about two miles west of Frankfurt. He served in the War of 1812, in the raid through Ohio, and all through those early years the Indians abounded all around them, and they had a hard struggle in their pioneer life in the wilderness. Joseph Lease was reared in Ross County, Ohio, and received his education in the pioneer schools. He remained with his father lot some time after he grew to manhood and then moved onto a farm. which the father had bought for him. The young man was. married to Miss Mary, a daughter of Teddy Goldberry, who came to Ohio from Virginia, and was one of the early settlers here, making his home upon Paint Creek. Joseph Lease made his home in the same place until 1857, when he sold out and moved to Hardin County, where he remained for four years, as he had there bought six hundred acres of land. He then removed to Ross County, living near his old home for several years, and while living there enlisted in the cavalry troop, and was in the service ft three }ears and six months. After his return from the war, he moved to Salem, Ross County. where he still lives. Joseph Lease had a family of nine children, live, of whom grained man's and woman's estate and three of that number are still living, namely; Nancy, the wife of Mr.. Pern Souther, who went into the army, and has since died; Teddie, who also went into the army-, and after a ten-months' service returned home on account of ill health. and our subject. The father was a Democrat. politically, but during the time of the Rebellion he was an earnest supporter of the Government and an ardent upholder of the cause of the Union. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. as was also his wife, who was called from his side by death, October 25, 1888. The date of the birth of our subject was September 17, 1832, and the scene of his nativity was the old homestead in Ross County, Ohio. Here he was reared and lived until he was twenty years old, when he went to Hardin County with his father. There he married Gertrude, a daughter of Abraham Roseborne, a prominent farmer of that county. The young people settled upon two hundred acres of land in Hardin County, and remained there for four years. at the end of which time the young man gave up this And to pay his father's debts, and they returned to Ross County. He served his country, as calls came for his help, and he was out with others to meet the Morgan PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 195 Raiders, and also joined a regiment, in which he enlisted for one hundred days. After the war, our subject removed to Fayette County, making his home here in March, 1865, and remaining here for three years. He bought the land where he now lives, and placed it under cultivation. His children are Sarah and Etta, who live at home, and Mary, who married William Wilson, and lives in this township. His property consists of seventy acres, winch constitute his home farm, and forty-five acres upon which his daughter lives, he is a strong advocate of the temperance movement and, politically, is attached to the Prohibition party, although he was formerly Republican. In the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which he belongs, he is a Class-leader and an active worker for all church objects. For a number of years he has been Superintendent of the Sunday-school, and he is foremost in promoting all movements which tend to religion and morality. HENRY O. LUDWIG. This prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Pickaway County is at present residing on his fine farm, situated on section 7, Circleville Township. His estate is finely improved and its owner has reached that stage where he is enjoying a pleasing degree of success. Mr. Ludwig was born in Circleville Township, December 16, 1832, and is thus more interested in his community than he would be had he been born in some other place. Our subject is the son of Jacob Ludwig, whose father, Daniel Ludwig, was born in Berks County, Pa., June 4, 1748. His father, also named Daniel, and his mother, Mary Ludwig, carne from Germany. Daniel Ludwig was associated in a store with Gov. Joseph Meister at Reading, Pa., for a number of years, and in the fall of 1806 emigrated to Ohio. bringing his family, which consisted of a wife and nine children, together with a small stock of goods, in wagons drawn by horses, he opened up a store in his dwelling, and some time later erected a large brick residence which was the home of Jacob Ludwig for more than seventy years and in one portion of which he intended to keep his store. Three of his sons on whom he depended to aid him in that project died and the store was never established, the goods being disposed of to his neighbors. The house alluded to was built in 1809 and was the first brick residence in Pickaway County. The grandfather of our subject purchased a half section of land in Circleville Township and entered lands in this and other counties until he became the owner of three thousand acres. He was the original owner of the land upon which the town of Logan, hocking County, now stands and stood very high in business circles. He was married three times, his first wife, to :whom he was united in 1778, being Appelona, daughter of Michael and Susannah Miller. Mrs. Ludwig was born Mardi 14, 1760, and became the mother of four children, namely: John, who was born January 29, 1779; Christena, born November 27, 1781; Daniel, born October 11, 1783, died January 28, 1790; George, who was born September 3, 1785, died February 8, 1810. Mrs. Appelona Ludwig died May 14, 1787, and March 11, 1788, Mr Ludwig was married to Eva, daughter of Casper and Rebecca Grissmer, who was born November 12, 1766. By that union were born two children: Thomas, born January 15, 1789, died February 15, 1810, and Joseph, who was born October 1, 1790, died September 10, 1807. Mrs. Eva Ludwig died on the 21st of October, 1800. Daniel Ludwig was a third time married. the. lady of his choice being Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth Shupert. their wedding taking place in 1802. Mrs. Ludwig was born March 3I, 1776, and became the mother of the following-named children: Catherine, who was born July 7, 1803; Mary, November 30, 1804; Jacob, April 17, 1806; Elizabeth, March 13, 1808; Rachel, November 25, 1810; Susanuah, August 9, 1812. Daniel Ludwig died June 9, 1825, and his wife, May 3, 1816. Jacob Ludwig, the father of our subject, was the third child and only son of the third marriage, and was six months old it the time of his parents' removal to this state. His early education was received in the district school, which was later sup- 196 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. plemented by a two-year's attendance at the schools of Circleville, when Dr. Brown, President of the First National Bank, was his teacher. Ile was married, November 18, 1830, to Evelina Morris, the daughter of Henry and Charity Morris. Mrs. Ludwig was born July 12, 1812, and died February 23, 1848. Their family included seven sons and one daughter, namely: Daniel, who was born November 23, 1831; our subject, who was the second in order of birth; Isaac, who was born September 21, 1834; George, January 14, 1836; John, born December 17, 1837, died April 7, 1848; Mary E., born April 28, 1839; David S., June 16, 1842, and Jacob, Jr., born January 27, 1848, died July 10 of that year. The father of our subject passed from this life October 12, 1881, at a ripe old age. He was a prominent man in the farming community, owning at the time of his death about two thousand acres of land. The original of this sketch received his education in the pioneer log schoolhouse, and being an apt pupil made the best of his limited opportunities. He remained under the parental roof until 1870, when he began farming on his own account. Mr. Ludwig and Miss Amelia Geoller were united in marriage April 6, 1875. Mrs. Ludwig was born in Circleville, and was the daughter of Leonard and Jessie Tina Geoller, natives of Germany. Her parents emigrated to America about 1860 and located in Circleville, where the father worked at his trade of machinist. He died in 1890; the mother is still living and makes, her home in Circleville. They were the parents of nine children, seven of whom are living. In his political belief, Mr. Ludwig is a stanch Democrat. He served his fellow-townsmen as Land Appraiser of Circleville Township in 1880 and 1890. His wife is a member of the German Lutheran Church and is an active worker in that body. Our subject is the owner of three hundred and thirty-eight and one-fourth acres of land on section 7, which is one of the finest estates in the township. He gives his entire time and attention to raising the cereals and has his place stocked with the best grade of cattle and horses. For a number of years, he was engaged as t drover, buying and shipping cattle and hogs to the city markets. His present residence, which was erected in 1887, is a comfortable and substantial structure, as the reader will judge by a glance at a view of the home presented on another page. The attention of the reader is also invited to the portrait of Mr. Ludwig shown in this connection. JAMES A. DRESBACH. The name of Dresback has been connected with the rise and growth of Pickaway County since the early days of its settlement, and the representative of the present generation, of whom we write, is closely associated with its interests as one of the most successful farmers of Pickaway Township, where he has a choice farm and a pleasant home. The subject of this biographical review was born on the old Dresbach homestead, in Salt Creek Township, December 8, 1839. The history of the Dresbachs extends back to one Martin Dresbach. who was born in the Kingdom of Wurtemberg, in 1717. In due time he was married to Anna Eve Hoffman, the daughter of a teacher of Nassau Siegen, and in 1746 they emigrated to America. They located in Lancaster County, Pa., and there reared a family of four sons and two daughters: Jacob, Henry, John, Martin, Margaret and Catherine. Their eldest son Jacob was the great-grandfather of our subject. he married Magdalene Buchs, or Books in the English form, and they had thirteen children, of whom their son George was the grandfather of our subject. He was their third child in order of birth, and was born January 13, 1784. He married Catherine Betts, who was born in Union County. Pa., February 14, 1788, their marriage taking place January 10, 1809. The following is the record of their children: Mary was born November 27, 1809; Hannah, January 2, 1812; Elizabeth, June 17, 1814; William, September 21,1817; Manuel, March 9, 1820; Sarah, January 16, 1823; George, August 18, 1825; Abner, August 16, 1828, and Solomon, August 16, 1831. The grandparents of our subject left the old home in Pennsylvania in 1811, to found a new one in the forests of Ohio, and in the years of sac- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 197 rifice and privation that followed, the grandfather cleared a farm in salt Creek Township, living to enjoy the triumphs of his labors after braving the dangers of pioneer life. he was a soldier during the War of 1812, and underwent the vicissitudes of those troublous times at the front, as well as in the backwoods. He was constitutionally brave and fearless, and he was noted for his uprightness of character and exemplary life. He was an active and most worthy member of the United Brethren Church, which mourned his loss, as did the entire community, when he closed his eyes in death November 3, 1863. William Dresbach, the father of our subject, was reared under the wholesome influences of farm life and the stern discipline of pioneer life, and his character was modeled after that of his father, from whom he inherited many fine traits. He was very strict in his religious views and was a leading member of the United Brethren Church. In his early years, he was a Democrat, but in 1848 he broke may from that party, and after the organization of the Republican party he joined its ranks. His long and honorable life was rounded out by his death, Mardi 5, 1882. His first wife, Margaret, daughter of William and Jane (Patterson) Earnheart, of this county, to whom he was married February 22, 1839, died May 28, 1863. His second marriage was August 1, 1869, with Mrs. Louisa Ford. James A. Dresbach is the eldest of nine children. The first school that he attended was taught in an old log school house, the typical institution of learning in pioneer times. He passed his boyhood days on his father's farm, helping to till the soil and real, the harvests, feeding the calves and pigs, earing for the colts and sheep, and performing the thousand and one chores required of an active farmer's boy. In 1863, he began his independent career as a farmer, and 1867 he came into possession of his is present fine farm, which is a part of the old homestead. It comprises two hundred and ten acres of very fertile land, advantageously situated on section 1, Pickaway Township, and well watered by Scipio Creek. He has made many valuable improvements, including a commodious and conveniently arranged brick residence. He raises and feeds cattle, keeping the best grades, having from twenty to fifty head. He sometimes does his own shipping, frequently sending a car to Eastern cities, and he sold the first cattle that brought $150 apiece in Albany, N. Y. Our subject stands high in the estimation of his fellow-citizens, who know him to be a man of honor and strict veracity, with a clear, sensible mind, and much decision of character. He is capable of forming his own opinions on all subjects with which he is conversant, and is fearless in expressing his sentiments. In politics, he is an ardent Republican, and a leader of his party in this section, representing it occasionally as a delegate to county, congressional and judicial conventions. He has also taken an active part in the administration of public affairs, having held the office of Trustee of the township six years, and he is Director of his school district, taking great interest in educational matters, and in all things calculated to elevate the community. Mr. Dresbach was married in 1867 to Miss Mary Alexander, of Tarlton, a daughter of .John and Margaret (Martz) Alexander, who were natives of Pennsylvania, and came to Pickaway County in an early day of its settlement. Her father was a school teacher. Mr. and Mrs. Dresbach have had four children, namely: William, James, John, and one that died in infancy. EDWARD ULM, a farmer and stock-raiser, residing in Range Township, Madison County, was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, June 8, 1823, and is a son of Samuel and Hannah (Funk) Ulm. His father was born in Virginia, of German parentage, and his mother was a native of the Keystone State. When he was about six years old, they emigrated to Ross County, Ohio, where our subject made his home until 1881. Mr. Ulm was married December 7, 1848, to Miss Julia A. Counts, daughter of Peter and Mary Counts. He engaged in operating his father's land in Ross County, and after three years purchased ninety-six acres of the homestead. Subsequently, He sold that, in 1861, and bought another seventy-five acres of it is father. 198 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. On the 4th of May, 1864, Mr. Ulm enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Ninetieth Ohio Infantry, and was in the second battle of Manassas Junction, where he had a ball shot through his hat and came near being taken prisoner. After his one hundred days of service had expired, he was discharged, August 28, 1864. Returning to Ross County, he there continued farming until 1881, when he came to Madison County, and has since resided upon the farm which is now his home. He had married Mrs. Martha Ann Rector, and as his wife had an interest in this farm, he purchased the interest of the other heirs, and now has one hundred and fifty-seven and one-half acres. Mrs. Ulm was born in Deer Creek Township, Pickaway County. Her father, John Wiggins, was born in Ross County, December 24, 1810, and married Amy Toweleger, who was born in Ulster County, N. Y., March 3, 1813, and came to Ohio with her parents when five years old. Mr. and Mrs. Wiggins were married March 31, 1831, and resided upon a farm in Pickaway County. Their daughter Martha was the fourth in a family of eight children, all of whom are now married and doing well. Her fattier died in Pickaway County, April 28, 1889, at the age of seventy-nine years, and her mother is still living at the age of seventy-nine. Mrs. Ulm was born July 24, 1840, and when sixteen years of age, on the 9th of November, 1856, became the wife of Amos D. Rector, a widower with four children. He was born in Pickaway County, May 5, 1820, and was a farmer in good circumstances. he died at his home in his native county, September 1, 1880, and was buried in Pleasant Cemetery. Six children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Rector: Florence P., wife of Edwin Blacker, a harness maker of Range Township, by whore she has two children; Ora I. married Reason Phebus, and, with their two children, they reside in Pickaway County; Joseph S. makes his home in Pickaway County; Amy Etta is the wife of William Eckert, of Kosciusko, Ind., and has two children; Matilda H. is the wife of Thomas Hancock, of Polk County, Mo., by whom she has two children; and Vista S. is at home. Mr. Ulm received $1,500 from his father's estate, and the remainder of his property he has acquired through his own efforts. His life has been characterized by industry and enterprise, and he is now a well-to-do farmer. He voted for Henry Clay in 1844, for J. C. Frernont in 1836, and is now a Prohibitionist. He has never been an office-seeker, preferring to devote his time and attention to his business interests. By his first marriage, Mr. Ulm had one son and two daughters: Margaret E., wife of Andrew Wilkins, of Ross County, by whom she has seven children; Clarinda, wife of Robert Eggleston, a machinist, of Peoria, Ill., by whom she has one child; and Edward J., at home. Mr. Ulm and his two daughters are members of the Methodist Church, with which he united when fourteen years of age. Socially, he is a member of the Grand Army Post. ANDREW J. CLINGAN, who won a good record while fighting for his adopted country in the late war, and has since. acquired a high reputation as a useful citizen of Madison County, is a prominent member of his community, being at the present time Justice of the Peace of Summerford. He is an adopted son of William Clingan, who died in Maryland at an early day. Andrew J. was born in Washington County, that state, August 21, 1820, and, when reaching mature years, learned the trade of a tailor. He resided in his native place until 1839, when he came to Springfield, Ohio, and there carried on trade until 1842, at which time he came to West Jefferson, this county, and was similarly employed for the following seven years. In the spring of 1850, he of whom we write made his home in Summerford, where he was established as a merchant tailor until 1865, and for the three succeeding years was engaged in the grocery business. Mr. Clingan then became the proprietor of a clothing store, which he carried on successfully for two years, his ability in business affairs enabling him to accumulate a handsome compe- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 199 tence. He has served his fellow-townsmen in different capacities, and is the incumbent at the present time of the office of Justice of the Peace. During the administration of President Hayes, he was Postmaster at Summerford, when, by his genial and cordial manners, he prepossessed people in his favor. He has also been Township Clerk for five years, and Constable for a number of terms, in which positions he discharged his obligations in a most creditable and satisfactory manner. The lady to whom Mr. Clingan was married February 17, 1842, was Miss Elizabeth Ann Clark, who was born in Maryland. January 21, 1824. To them have been granted a family of seven children: and Frances. During the late war, Alonzo served in the Union army as a member of Company K, Twenty-sixth Ohio Regiment. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Chickamauga and confined in Andersonville, where he died October 30, 1864. Laura V., the second child of our subject, is the wife of J. T. Arnold, of Troy, this State; Mary married Frank Weller. and William married Emma Eckls; Ida is the wife of F. C. Foster; James married Addie Cartzdafner, and Frances became Mrs. Thomas Welch. Mrs. Clingan is a devoted member of the Christian Church, with which denominations, she has worshiped for a quarter of a century. Mr. Clingan enlisted in .July, 1861, joining Company K, Twenty-sixth Ohio infantry, and did brave and efficient service for twenty-nine months. He participated in many of the important battles of the war, and received his discharge from Gen. Rosecrans on account of physical disability. His long residence in this county has made him well known throughout its borders and an upright life has won him universal esteem. CHARLES F. ALKIRE. The family of which this gentleman is an honored representative is one of the most favorably known in Madison County, its members having contributed their efforts to the development of the resources of the community, and having ever been distinguished for manliness and nobility of character. It is therefore with pleasure that we invite the attention of the reader to the following brief outline of the life of one of its most widely known Alonzo, Laura V., Mary, William, Ida F., James representatives. Charles F. Alkire was born in Pleasant Township, Madison County, Ohio, Match 1, 1860, and is a son of Abraham R. and Mary J. (Tanner) Alkire. The father, who for many years was a farmer, is now living retired in Mt. Sterling, but, the mother has passed from the scenes of Earth. Upon the farm which his father owned and operated, our subject passed his childhood and youth in a comparatively uneventful manner, his time being occupied with his studies at school and in aiding in the farm work. When about twenty-two years of age, Mr. Alkire was married. December 7, 1882, to Flora F. Heath, who was born  in the township where she now lives, October 23, 1861. After their marriage, the young couple located where they still reside, and they are now the parents of two children: William, born January 29, 1885, and Clyde. September 23, 1886. The home of this happy family is an attractive and commodious residence, built in 1890, and containing all the comforts of a model home. Upon locating upon his present farm, which was purchased by his father and father-in-law, Mr. Alkire found the place in poor condition, but he at once commenced its improvement, putting up good fences, introducing an effective system of drainage, and otherwise adding to the value of the land. He now engages in raising, buying and selling stock, in which more than ordinary success has met his efforts. In addition to his homestead of eighty acres, he owns font hundred and fifty acres of land, received from his father's estate. In their religious connections, Mr. and Mrs. Alkire are faithful and active members of the Christian Church of Mt. Sterling, and the destitute always find in them helpful and generous friends, while public measures for the benefit of the community receive their active co-operation. The principles of the Republican party are those which Mr. Alkire believes best adapted to the advancement of the Government, and he uses his influence for its candidates. Although he has scarcely