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same time was engaged in the manufacture of linseed oil. He also owned a tract of three hundred acres of excellent land, which was the fruit of his industry, as he came to the county entirely without means. he was a leader in all public enterprises and was held in high repute by his fellowmen for the energetic conduct of his own affairs, his progressive ideas regarding agriculture and the honorable way in which he carried on business. He was eighty-eight years old at the time of his decease and had been a life-long member of the Lutheran Church, to whose support he was a liberal and cheerful contributor. In politics, he was a stanch Democrat.
The maiden name of our subject's mother was Elizabeth Rhodes, a native of Pennsylvania. She reared a family of eight children and died in her seventieth year a devoted member of the Lutheran Church. David of this sketch was the youngest but one in the family, and received a good education in the old academy which stood on what is now the site of the public schools. he passed his early days amid the surroundings of rural life and remembers the time when deer were very plentiful and Indians quite numerous about the old home. he assisted his father in clearing the estate, and when he had attained his majority he adopted the calling to which be had been bred, and has since followed agricultural pursuits. He began life on his own account when he reached his twenty-fourth year, mid in 1852 was married to Isabel F. Shorb, who was born in the city of Canton, where her parents are still residing.
To Mr. and Mrs. Smith has been born a family of nine children, namely: William, Alice, Lizzie, George, Belle, Bert, Floy A., Ella, and Harry. Our subject has one hundred acres of excellent land, which has taken on a different appearance since it carne into his possession, herds of domestic animals taking the place of the wild game that was plentiful here during his early residence, and fruitful fields ord orchards replacing the prairie grass and the forest growth of former days. He is engaged in mixed farming and buys and ships stock to the eastern market on a large scale. He has platted several additions to the city of Canton, and disposed of some of his property to other parties who also laid it out in city lots. He has acquired a valuable property, and while engaged in his private affairs is at the same time one of those solid men who are very active in promoting the interests of the township.
In 1868, Mr. Smith engaged in the brick-making business, which he followed successfully until 1880, and turned out annually about one million brick. He is a stalwart defender of Democratic principles and has served his fellow-townsmen as Trustee for fourteen years. The Lutheran Church finds in him a most active and devoted member, while his good wife belongs to the Catholic Church.
SAMUEL NOFTSINGER/b. Stark County has in this gentleman a fine representative of its agricultural class, as his energy and enterprise have been leading factors in advancing its growth in this section. He is a prominent and well-known resident of Bethlahem Township, and his name is associated with many plans that have promoted its welfare. His birth occurred in this county, July 22, 1833, whither his parents, John and Elizabeth Noftsinger, emigrated in an early day, and took up their abode in a log cabin in the woods of Bethlehem Township. They passed through the usual amount of hardships which fell upon the pioneers, but eventually succeeded in placing under excellent cultivation the fertile tract of land, which constantly increased in value in proportion to the improvements placed upon it from time to time. In the father's death, which occurred in 1846, the county lost one of her early and best citizens. Politically, he was a supporter of the Democratic party, and was in favor of all things that would in any way elevate society and contribute to the happiness and well-being of the people.
Samuel Noftsinger of this sketch grew to manhood in the enjoyment of fair school privileges and under home training that developed the vigor of mind and body. He recalls the days when the
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houses of the neighbors were few and scattering, and what may be called pioneer labor was still done in the vicinity of his home.
November 29, 1855, Mr. Noftsinger and Miss Charlotte Nicholas, who was born in this county, March 26, 1837, were united in marriage. The lady was a daughter of Amos and Charlotte (Vandorston) Nicholas, natives of the Keystone State, whence they removed in an early day to this county and resided in Bethlehem Township. To our subject and his excellent wife have been born eleven children, nine of whom are living, namely: Eliza; Catherine married George Beck; Emma married Hiram Friend; Austin married Emma Bollinger; Join, James, Ella, John and Alpheus; while two died in infancy unnamed.
The original of this sketch took up his abode on his present farm in the fall of 1868, and has since been a resident, upon it. His career has been distinguished by rare energy, stability of character and prompt and systematic business habits, and his course furnishes an illustrious example to the young who are just starting out in the world to seek fortune's favors. His estate comprises eighty acres of good land, which is cultivated in a most profitable manner. he has been very prominent in local affairs. and served one year as Trustee of Bethlehem Township. In his political relations he is a stanch Democrat, and is all active worker in the ranks of that party. John Noftsinger, an older brother of our subject, whose sketch will appear on another page of this work, prefers to spell his name without the" t."
GEORGE J. YOUNG. The name of Young is well known and highly honored through out Stark County, and indeed beyond its bounds, as members of the family have been closely identified with the development of this section of Ohio, and it is confidently expected that all who bear the name will prove worthy of it and continue to work so well begun by those of preceding generations. That this is the case in the life of Mr. Young, it needs but a mention of his name to his acquaintances to prove. He is numbered among the wealthy and prominent farmers and stockmen of Pike Township, and tins a high reputation as a man of thoroughly upright character, Stanch and true.
George J. Young was born in this township, March 19, 1819, and is the son of George Young, Sr., who was born in Hagerstown, Md., and was a lad of nine years when he emigrated to Somerset County, Pa., with his parents. Making his home in the Keystone State for a twelvemonth after his marriage, which occurred when in his nineteenth year, he emigrated to this State and located for a time in Jefferson County, where he accumulated a sufficient Sum of money with which to purchase a couple of horses and a few agricultural implements, in order to carry on farming. In the spring of 1806, he came to Pike Township and took up his abode on section 16. The journey hither was made overland, his wife riding one horse and carrying a small child, and the provisions and clothing packed on the other horse. Reaching his land, Mr. Young immediately began the construction of a cabin, in which the family lived until a more suitable structure could be erected. He met with many reverses in Iris new home, but being plucky and industrious, overcame them, and at his death left a good estate. Indians and wild animals were very numerous about their primitive home and often proved very troublesome.
The father of our Subject resided on leased land until 1811, when he became the owner of the northwest quarter of section 16, upon which he erected a cabin, which afterward gave place to a large brick residence, which was the first of its kind in the township. During the War of 1812, he was drafted into service three times, but on each occasion furnished a substitute.
In addition to carrying on his farming operations, he kept a store in his residence for many years, where he sold salt, iron, nails, glass, leather, etc. He was a firm believer in witches and witch craft, and to the fact of his being left-handed, he attributed his lower over them, and held firmly to the opinion that otherwise they would be able to
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gain all ascendency over him. He abandoned these views, an
d as civilization broadened and deepened became less superstitious. At his death, which occurred in October, 1873, he had reached the age of ninety-four years. He was considered one of the best business men in his section and enjoyed an enviable reputation as a man of firm principles and strict morality.
The mother of our subject, whose maiden name was Catherine Heglar, departed this life in 1839. She became the mother of the following twelve children: Sarah, Mrs. Jacob Brothers; David, who married Hannah Keiser; Jacob, who married Maria Donot; Mary, who became the wife of John Creeger; Henry, who married July Anne Fulk; Samuel, who married Caroline Creeger; Susan, who became Mrs. Clinton Henline; Barbara, who married Frederick Heminger; George, who married Harriet Parker; Catherine, who became the wife of Andrew Slant; Daniel, who married Mary Darr, and Elizabeth, who died single when in her nineteenth year. The lady whom the father of our subject chose as his second wife bore him seven children: Frances, Almira, Frank E., Nora, Ebelene, and two who died in infancy.
The original of this sketch was reared on the home farm on section 21, and acquired his fundamental education in a pioneer log schoolhouse, which was one mile's distance from his home. It was furnished in a most primitive manner, slab botches serving as seats; the windows were of groused paper, and the door was hung on wooden hinges. He remembers when the surrounding country was sparsely settled, and has killed many wild animals about the house. he aided his father greatly in developing a farm, bringing to bear upon his vocation all the energy of his nature, and helped to make the home place an estate pleasant to look upon.
When attaining his twentieth year, he of whom we write was married to Miss Harriet Parker, the date thereof being February 14, 1839. Mrs. Young was born in Chippewa, Wayne County, this State, ! August 21, 1820, her parents being early Settlers of that county. Her father dying when she was ! six years of age, she was taken into the home of her maternal uncle, Andrew Fisher, who made his home in Sugar Creek Township, this county. After his marriage, our subject began life for himself and worked out by the day and month, receiving fifty cants a day for his labors.
Of the eleven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Young, ten grew to mature years, namely: Haman, who is a carpenter residing its Columbus, this State; Nancy, who married Samuel Shutz, a farmer in this township; William H., who also makes his home in this township; Franklin .J., who is cultivating the soil in Plain Township; Alfred, Marion F., and Arthur, also well-to-do farmers in Pike Township; Wesley, who is operating the Gand View hotel at Huntington, Ind.; Allison, who is operating the home farm and Clara, Mrs. William Poorman, who died in 1890.
After his marriage, George J. Young of this sketch, worked out for a time, as before stated, and then rented a farm for a number of vests. He later purchased what is now his present home, locating firm in a log house, which was burned its 1866. He then erected his present commodious frame residence, and has placed upon his estate those evidences of progress and prosperity which make of it one of the best in the township. He erected a large frame barn on his place in 1859, which gives ample room for the storage of large quantities of grain and the shelter of a number of cattle. Mr. Young has two hundred and three acres of valuable land, the greater part of which he has cleared himself. He has a thorough understanding of farming and stock-raising, and is managing his affairs with skill and success. He is an untiring worker, and his toil has been directed by shrewd judgment, close calculation, and a resolute will that overcame all obstacles in the pathway to success.
Mr. Young, in addition to carrying on his farm, operated a threshing-machine for twenty-two years, from which branch of work he reaped a good income. He was one of the first to engage in that kind of work in this section and as a consequence was greatly in demand.
Mrs. Young departed this life July 10, 1890. She was a lady whose personal qualities gained her a high place in the estimation of neighbors and friends, and was a devoted member of the Method-
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ist Episcopal Church, which body she joined with her Husband in March, 1850. Since that time they have been active workers in that denomination, Mr. Young having held the position of Class-leader for over forty years. He contributed very liberally of his means toward the support of the church, and at the time of the erection of the new building, aided it materially. In his political relations, he now votes the Republican ticket, and has been Trustee of his township for the past eighteen years. He is a valued citizen of good repute and high standing, who is always ready to do all in his power to forward the welfare of his township and county. He has been especially interested in educational matters, and has held the office of School Director.
Our subject is one of the oldest residents of the township with whom Time has dealt kindly, enabling him to lay aside the burdens which he bore in former years and to settle down to the enjoyment of the physical comforts and social pleasures which his adequate means and good taste make possible and agreeable.
CONRAD HUTH, one of the most honored residents of Stark County, is now residing in Massillon where he carries on a thriving grocer. He possesses many social qualities which, added to his upright character, make him well liked wherever he is known. He is a native of Germany, having been born near Frankfort,-on-the-Main, September 28, 1823, and is the son of John Huth, who was also a native of that country. Grandfather Huth, who was born in Mines, on the Rhine, was a very wealthy man, and a graduate of several of the best schools in Germany. He emigrated to America, and located in Tuscarawas County, this State, where he died at the advanced age of ninety years.
The father of our subject was a farmer by occupation, and in 1835 came to America with his family, and located three and one-half miles south of Bolivar, in the above-named county, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres. After operating that tract for a time, he purchased property near Canton, where he made his home for nine years, and at the end of that time returned to his old home in Bolivar, where he died in 1875, his death being the result of a fall he received when in his eighty-sixth year.
Mrs. Christine Huth, the mother of our subject, was also born in Germany, near her husband's birthplace, where she was given a good practical education. She was a most estimable lady and trained her children to lead honorable and upright lives. She was a Catholic in religion, and died in 1877, when eighty years of age. Of the eleven children of whom she was the mother, ten grew to mature years; of these our subject was the fourth in order of birth. Conrad spent his childhood in his native land, and in 1835 accompanied his parents to this country, leaving Bremen on the large sailing vessel, "Prince," the voyage consuming sixty-two days. After landing in New York, the family came to Ohio via Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland, Akron, Canton, remaining in the latter place twelve months, when the father located on his new farm in Tuscarawas County.
The original of this sketch remained at home until reaching his fourteenth year, when he went to Wyandotte County with a Mr. Rappee, and with him engaged in operating an hotel, and carried on a dry-goods store at Little Sandusky, near the Wyandotte Indians. After being thus engaged for a few years, Mr. Huth came to Canton, where he was employed in the Eagle Hotel as Clerk. In 1848, however, he carne to this city and engaged to work in the Hawkes Hotel. He was then taken sick, and, returning home, remained until engaging in the manufacture of tubs, churns, etc.
Soon after leaving the above firm, Mr. Huth purchased the grocery business, which gradually grew until he became one of the most successful business men in the city. In 1865, however, he abandoned that line of trade, and again engaging in the hotel business, operated as "mine host" for two years, when he purchased the corner of Canal and West Main street, which he improved, and in 1874 put in a stock of groceries. He has been
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engaged in the grocery business since that date, ind is now one of the oldest merchants in the pity.
November 27, 1881, Conrad Ruth and Miss Melinda Houck, who is also a native of this county, were united in marriage. The lady is the daughter of John Houck, who was born in Lancaster County, Pa., and on coming to this county was ranked among the well-to-do farmers of Tuscarawas Township. he held the position of School Director for a number of years, and died January 8, 1875. The mother of Mrs. Huth was Susannah Hoffer, and she was also a native of the Keystone State. She bore her husband nine children, and departed this life in 1873, when sixty-five years of age. Her parents were both members of the Lutheran Church, in which body the former was Deacon.
Our subject: is a loyal and law-abiding citizen, interested in the welfare of his county, and has always affiliated with the Democratic party, which finds in hum a true supporter. He is gentlemanly and courteous to his customers, and by well-directed and incessant labor has accumulated a comfortable property and is conducting a good business, which brings him in an excellent income.
PHILIP SHEAFER, a prominent citizen of Lawrence Township, now practically living a
retired life, resides upon his farm on section 27. He was born on the farm which is still his home, September 11, 1824. On the paternal side he is of German and English descent, while on the maternal side he is of German descent. His grandfather, Philip Sheafer, was born in Germany, and when a lad of seven summers was brought to this country. John Sheafer, father of our subject, was born in Bedford County, Pa., in the year of 1791, and in Somerset County married Eva Wagner, who was there born in the same year of her husband's birth. In 1818, they emigrated Westward, becoming pioneer settlers of Stark County. Mr. Sheafer went to Canada, where he worked at the Plow business when a young man, but after coming to the Buckeye State gave his entire time and attention There were no improvements upon his land, except a little log cabin, but he transformed it into one of the best farms of the community and made it his home until called to his final rest in 1861. In early life he was a Whig and a stanch Abolitionist. He served his township as Trustee. He was greatly opposed to secret societies. He read extensively, became well informer and was one of the highly respected citizens of Stark County. His wife survived him about fourteen years, and passed away in 1875.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sheafer were born eight children, four sons and four daughters. six of whom
grew to mature years, but William, Mrs. Susan Hoover and Maria Jane are now deceased; one child died at the age of four years, and another at the age of sixteen. The members of the family who still survive are Mrs. Mary Bowman. Philip and Mrs. Margaret Young.
Our subject began his education in a log schoolhouse of primitive style and conned his lessons upon a slab used for seats. In the usual manner of farmer lads the days of his boyhood and youth
were passed, He remained under the parental roof and cared for his parents until their deaths. He was first married on the 14th of May, 1852. Miss Sarah E. Trevetie becoming his wife. She was a native of this county, and died April 2, 1870. Four children were born of that marriage: Mary Jane, now deceased; Edward H.,of Colorado; Emma, wife of George Gott, of Ft. Madison, Iowa; and Nettie F., wife of William McFarland, of Kansas. Mr. Sheafer was again married, February 22, 1872, his second union being with Mrs. Mary A. Groff, widow of John Goff. Their union has
been blessed with a daughter, Eva B., who is still with her parents.
Mr. Sheafer has spent his entire life on the old homestead. He now owns one hundred and seventy acres of the old farm, which is under a high state of cultivation and well improved. He has devoted his energies to farming and stock-raising during the greater part of his business career, but p align="center">306 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD
is now practically living a retired life, having rented his land. He has been industrious and enterprising, and the competency which he acquired thereby now enables him to lay aside all business cares.
In early life, Mr. Sheafer was a stanch Abolitionist, and when the Republican party was formed to prevent the further extension of slavery, he joined its ranks and continued one of its supporters for many years. He has always been a stanch temperance man, and now votes with the Prohibition party. He has never been an office-seeker, but has served as Assessor of Lawrence Township. He holds membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church of Canal Fulton, and has served in some of its official positions.
LOUIS A. VOGELGESANG. Stark County is the home of a great number of men who
are gaining a livelihood by tilling the soil, and whose work is being carried on systematically and energetically. The home of trite gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs is on section 30, Plain Township, where he ranks among the most prominent farmers and stock-raisers of the section. He is a native of the county, having been born on his present farm April 1, 1837. He is a son of Isaac Vogelgesang, who was born in Germany in 1812.
Grandfather Isaac Vogelgesang was also born in the Fatherland, came to America in 1834, and making his way direct to Stark County, located in Canton Township, where he spent the rest of his life. The father of our subject, when a young man of twenty years, determined to see what lay inn store for him in the New World, and, on coming hither, worked in New Jersey for eighteen months, when, being joined by his father, he came to this county, where he was identified with its early residents and best citizens. After his marriage, he moved to Plain Township and made his home on land owned by his father-in-law, which was improved with a log house. There he entered upon the arduous task of developing a good farm, upon which he remained until 1852, when he moved to section 31. He was a very industrious man and felt a commendable pride in the part which he had taken in the opening up of new sections, the development of the divers resources of the country and the advance of civilization. His death, which occurred October 14, 1876, at the age of sixty-four years, was the direct result of overwork. He exercised the elective franchise in behalf of Republican candidates, and was earnest in his advocacy of whatever would add to the prosperity of the people, and especially anxious to promote those movements which would give to the rising generation better opportunities than were enjoyed by their fathers. He was a devoted member of the Evangelical Church.
The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Mary A. Tream. She was also a native of Germany, her birth occurring in 1821, and was nine years of age when her parents emigrated to the United States. She reared a family of nine children, of whom our subject the oldest, his brothers and sisters being Magdalena, Louisa, Jacob, Isaac J., Katie, Philip, Elizabeth and Emma. The wife and mother died February 8, 1882, and, like her husband, was a devoted member of the Evangelical Church. Her father, Peter Tream, was born in Germany in 1800, and on taking rap his residence in America, came to Stark County, where he improved a valuable estate and was recognized as one of the most thrifty and influential farmers. A member of the German Reformed Church in early life, he later became identified with the Evangelical denomination, in the workings of which he took an active interest.
Louis A. Vogelgesang obtained his education in the early subscription schools of this section, and though the advantages which he enjoyed were not equal to those provided the youth of this day, they were sufficient to give him a practical understanding of important branches and fit him for the business transactions which lay before him. In 1860, he farmed the home place on shares, and its all his life had been spent in agricultural pursuits, was successful in his undertakings. December 29,
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1859, he was married to Miss Agnes D. Dahlheim, who was born in Germany February 7, 1840, and came to America with her adopted parents, John and Augusta Dahlheim, who located in the village of Osnaburg.
To Mr. and Mrs. Vogelgesang have been born seven children, viz.: Louisa, Emma I.., Isaac, Orwin, Charlie, Alfred and Edward. Our subject is the proprietor of one hundred and six acres of land, upon which he has placed substantial improvements and has gained a competence sufficient to supply every need, and their home is one where comfort and good cheer abound. In 1871, he built his present neat residence, and remodeled his barn in 1875. He devotes his attention to mixed farming and is a man of high reputation, who stands well with his fellow-citizens in all respects. With his wife, he is a prominent member of the Evangelical Church of Canton, and they number their friends among the best residents of this section.
Our subject is a Republican in politics, and is a man who has been greatly interested in school
affairs, which has led him to be placed on the School Board, where he has done efficient service for the past three years. He is a man of pure character and lofty principle, who has ever exerted an influence for good in his community.
JAMES C. PARKS. The man who chooses the vocation of a farmer will in all probability be spared the excitement which belongs to some pursuits and the stirring events which characterize life in the centers of commerce. He has, however, abundant opportunities for the exercise of the sterling qualities of manhood and the exhibition of those habits which are worthy the emulation of mankind. Examples of unremitting zeal, sincere kindliness and strict integrity may be met with in every agricultural district of our country. and thus it affords its pleasure to embody in this volume the brief outline of the life of an unassuming citizen of Bethlehem Township who is well known and highly honored for his noble character and useful life.
A native of Stark County, our subject was born May 1, 1841, to Samuel nod Mary E. (Barnett) Parks, natives of Ireland, where they were well-to-do and respected citizens. The parents, upon emigrating from their native isle, located in Perry Township, where they made their home for a short time, and in 1842 came to Bethlehem Township, where they were actively identified with its interests until the decease, of the father, which occurred in 1866. The mother, who is still living, makes her home in Bolivar, this State.
The early life of young Parks was passed in no unusual manner in this county, and his primary studies were conducted in the district school. His advantages for obtaining an education, however, were far superior to that afforded the majority of farmer lads and the knowledge gained in the common schools was supplemented by a two-years course at Hiram Institute during which time he had for his teacher the late President Garfield. After completing his education, Mr. Park's taught school for seven terms in his neighborhood and was fairly successful in his undertaking.
March 21, 1863, the original of this sketch enlisted in the Union army and joined Company A, Twelfth New York Cavalry. He participated in the principal battles in which the Eastern army was engaged, and during his term of service was under several of the most noted generals of that struggle. He saw much hardship while a soldier, and received his honorable discharge August 19, 1865, having served his country faithfully and well for a period of two years. He was mustered into service as a private and for valiant conduct on different occasions was promoted from time to time, until at the close of hostilities he occupied the rank of First Lieutenant.
When returning again to the peaceful pursuits of civic life, Mr. Parks came to Stark County and resumed his occupation of agriculturist and often during the dull winter season found time to teach school and keep up his studies. The lady to whom he was married May 29, 1867, was Miss
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Elizabeth, daughter of Michael and Catherine Evans, formerly of Tuscarawas County, this State, but who are now deceased. By their union has been born a family of five children, all of whom are at home and who bear the respective names of Clarence M., Belle, Eva K., Maggie R., and Homer C.
Our subject is the proprietor of one hundred and nineteen acres of excellent land, which his persistent industry and good management have placed under the best methods of cultivation and which is further embellished with suitable and numerous outbuildings. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and is favorably known throughout the county. His home is a pleasant and attractive one, and as an intelligent farmer, a worthy citizen, and a kind neighbor, Mr. Parks receives his due measure of respect from his fellow-citizens.
HON. JOHN M. STILLWELL. A prominent position among the citizens of Alliance is held by the gentleman whose name introduces this biographical notice, and who, during the period in which he served as Mayor of the city, was distinguished for his sturdy efforts to effect municipal reforms. A man of broad knowledge and superior ability, as well as the genial courtesy of manner which wins and retains friends, he merits the high regard in which he is held by all who know him.
Mr. Stillwell is now in the prime of life, having been born October 17, 1845, and his birthplace is at Auburn, Geauga County, Ohio. His parents, Kortenus and Wait (Stafford) Stillwell, were natives respectively of Rhode Island and New York, and the father, who was a farmer by occupation, came West to Ohio at an early day, locating in Geauga County. After engaging in farming pursuits there for many years and accumulating a competency, he retired from active labors and came to Stark County in 1872, dying here nine years afterward. His wife survived him ten years, her death occurring in June, 1891.
The parental family consisted of five sons and one daughter, and four members of the family are still living. Joshua A. enlisted during the late war as a member of Company B, Second Ohio Cavalry, and was appointed Orderly-Sergeant, in which capacity he was serving when he was fatally wounded in the battle of Richmond, Ky. James died of typhoid fever during the war. Our subject, who was the youngest in order of birth, was reared to manhood on his father's farm in Geauga County, and was the recipient of an excellent education in the public schools of the district. When eighteen years old, he was graduated from Chagrin Falls Academy, and two years afterward finished the course in Eastman's Business College.
His literary education completed, Mr. Stillwell learned the trade of a machinist, and followed that occupation successfully until about 1881. Then, accepting the position of a salesman in a sewing-machine establishment, he remained in that connection for a time, and later conducted a thriving boot and shoe business. In his various connections, he gained the confidence of all who knew him by his reliable dealings and scrupulous integrity. In 1887, he was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he filled satisfactorily for three years, and until he was elected to the highest position within the gift of his fellow-townsmen-that of Mayor. His official career is fresh in the minds of the people of Stark County, and it is needless to dwell in detail upon the various measures introduced by him which resulted in the promotion of the best interests of the community. In addition to the above-mentioned positions, he has served as a member of the City Council one term, and was Township Clerk for three years, besides holding other local offices of trust.
In 1867, Mr. Stillwell was united in marriage with Miss Madora A. Niece, and they are the parents of one child, Mark. In his social connections, Mr. Stillwell is a member of the Masonic fraternity; the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Knights of Pythias, having served officially in these several organizations. He has been a Representative of the Grand Lodge for the Masonic
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order and has the honor of the representation of he Knights of Pythias for the ensuing term 1892). He is actively identified with the Home Loan Mutual Association, one. of the most flourishing enterprises of Alliance, and is at present serving in the capacity of Secretary. In fact, it any be said of him that no measure he proposes, raving for its object the direct or indirect promotion of the welfare of the city, fails to secure his hearty co-operation and enthusiastic support; he is therefore justly entitled to consideration among the foremost citizens of Alliance, and an important factor in its growth.
JACOB FREDRICK HESS. Germany has furnished the Buckeye State with many estimable citizens, but she has contributed none more worthy of mention, or whose career has been such a complete success in every wary, than the subject of this sketch. He has inherited all the thrift, energy and perseverance of his Teutonic ancestors as well as their great honesty and openheartedness. He is at present senior member of the firm of Mess, Snyder & Co., manufacturers, and is one of the far-seeing, practical business men of Massillon. He, was born in Kandern, Baden, Germany, on the 28th of August, 1831, and remained in his native country until about twelve years of age, when he was brought to America by his parents.
His father, Jacob F. Hess, who was also a native of the Old Country, was a miner by occupation and was employed in the iron mines of Germany for many years. The numerous advantages to he derived true a residence in the. United States, and particularly in Ohio, where many of his countrymen had made homes, were brought to his notice, and he decided to trust himself to Neptune's tender mercies and seek a home for himself in the. New World. In 1846, he came with his family to America and made his way to Ohio, where he settled in Massillon. He entered the coal mines and this was his principal occupation until his death in 1853. He was married in his native country to Miss Catherine Bomerlin, a native of Baden, and she was his faithful helpmate and counselor until his death. She received her final summons in Massillon in 1881. Both patents were of the good old German Protestant stock, and were classed among the representative citizens of Stark County. Their entire family of five children grew to mature years, and three are now living. The children were as follows: Christine (who became Mrs. Snyder) died near Albion, Calhoun County, Mich.; Catherine died in Massillon; J. F., our subject; Philip, a skilled mechanic, in the employ of Hess, Snyder & Co., and Leonard, a partner in the, firm of Hess, Snyder &. Co.
Our subject's boyhood days, until nearly twelve years of age, were passed amid the beautiful scenery of the River Rhine, and his playmates were of his own nativity. In the spring of 1846, the family went to Havre de Grace by way of Brazil and Paris, and made the journey in a large wagon, or what was termed in the United States in early days a "prairie schooner," drawn by four horses. They took passage to Havre de Grace on the steamer "South Carolina,'' and forty-nine clays later landed at New York. They then came up the Hudson River to Albany, where they took the Erie to Buffalo, thence by steamer to Cleveland and by canal to Massillon.
The little schooling our subject received had been in the German language, and after reaching this country he picked up the English language without an instructor. All the knowledge he received in this way was by application and observation, but being naturally very apt and studious he became unusually well posted on all subjects. Almost as soon its he reached Massillon, he entered the coal mines and there worked for six years, after which he was apprenticed to learn the tinsmith trade with Patridge & Co., with whom be remained one year, then went with James Jacoby, remaining with him from 1852 to 1857. In the spring of the latter year, he started for California by way of the Isthmus, tool after reaching San Francisco remained there a short time engaged in his trade in order to replenish his purse, With
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two others, he then went North to the Cisque Mountains, Oregon, where he began prospecting and mining in placer diggings for over three years, in which he met with considerable success. He lived in regular miner's style, and when not engaged was hunting wild animals that everywhere abounded. Indians were frequently seen but they were very peaceable and friendly, and he visited several Indian camps along the coast. While engaged in mining, our subject also ran a blacksmith shop in connection, and miners would come from four to six miles to have their tools sharpened. They were at times obliged to go quite a distance for provisions and supplies. At one time, when it was Mr. Hess' turn to go for provisions, the snow was ten feet deep and the place where he was to get his supplies was eight miles away. Not having any snow shoes, he made a pair from hoops taken from a tub, covered them with canvas and find very little trouble in making the trip. Newspapers were seldom seen in those days, but when they were received were read and reread many times. He paid $1 a paper for two years when they could be bought for fifty cents apiece.
In the fall of 1860, he returned to Massillon, Ohio, stopping on the way a short time at Mexico and Aspinwall, Panama. After reaching Massillon, Mr. Hess followed his trade, and in partnership with a Mr. Smith, began dealing in stoves, etc., on South Erie Street. This partnership lasted about three years, when Mr. ess started in business for himself on North Erie Street, and later his brother Leonard became his partner, and they conducted the business under the firm name of .J. F. Hess & Brother from 1866 to 1882. They added plumbing and gas fitting, and in a few months were doing the most extensive business of any firm in the city. They built the brick block Nos. 9 and 11, and Mr. Mass now owns that. They also started a stove foundry at the corner of Erie and North Streets, and continued both enterprises until 1882, when they sold their tin store to Snyder & Schworm, and their plumbing and gas fitting department to Knapp & Dillon. In 1882, they formed a partnership with Snyder Bros. under the name of Mess, Snyder & Co., and they now carry on the manufacture of hot air furnaces, cook and heating stoves, as well as a machine and repair shop. They have met with remarkable success and have the largest enterprise of the kind in Massillon. Aside from this, Mr. Hess is the owner of considerable teal estate in the city, and has a very comfortable and pleasant home on Oak Hill, where he owns several acres and has a beautiful yard and drive.
Mr. Hess married, in 1862, Miss Catherine Stahl, a native of Navarre, Ohio, and the daughter of Frederick Stahl. The following children have been born to this union: Ida, now Mrs. Frank Snyder, resides in Massillon; Frank resides in Massillon and is a salesman for Hess, Snyder & Co.; Emma, Albert, Anna, Dora and Maude, the five last named at home. All the children have had the best school advantages Massillon affords, and are bright and quick at learning. Mr. and Mrs. Hess are members of St. John's Evangelical Church and are liberal supporters of the same. Mr. Mess has always been a stanch Republican and believes in protection for American citizens. His first vote was for John C. Fremont.
S. T. KEITH, M. D., a leading physician of Alliance, connected with the Electric Sanitarium is a native of Southern Illinois, born October 10, 1844. His father, Thomas H. Keith, who was born in Virginia, emigrated to Illinois, and thence to Ohio, locating in Stark County. He followed merchandising and farming as a means of livelihood. He now resides with our subject, in his eighty-seventh year. Three sons and two daughters of the family are yet living. Dr. Price, who was a graduate of the New York Medical College, died in Columbiana County, Ohio. Stephen; Dr. S. T.; John H.; Mrs. Unkefer, of Cleveland, Ohio; and Mrs. Heston, of Woodbine, Kan., are still living. Our subject spent the greater part of his boy-
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hood days upon a farm in Columbiana County, Ohio, and was edueated in the public schools of Hanover. On the breaking out of the war, when only seventeen years of age, he enlisted in C'omp:uty F, Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, and served througlout the struggle. He participated in the battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Re. sacs, tthe Atlanta campaign, and was with Sherman on the celebrated march to the sea. He endured many hardships, but escaped injury, and was never captured. When the war was over, he received his discharge in Columbus, in 1865.
Returning home, the Doctor embarked in the drug business in Hanoverton, and while thus engaged began reading medicine. He was graduated from the medical department of the State university, in Ann Arbor, Mich., in 1870. After a short time he went to Bloomington, Ill., where he was located for about two years. The scene of his labors then changed to North Jackson, Ohio and in 1880, he came to alliance, where he has since engaged in practice. He makes a specialty of the treatment of chronic diseases with electricity and has been very successful. He established what is known as the Electric Sanitarium, his nephew, Charles S. Keith, being the manager of the institution. The Doctor has built up a large practice, and makes a specialty of the diseases of women and children, rheumatism, spinal diseases, kidney and liver trouble and paralysis. He also makes a specialty of removing tumors by electricity, and has made three wonderful cures. One patient, a paralytic, was cured in ten weeks. When he came to the Sanitarium, it took two men to handle him, and on leaving he could walk, climb or jump as well as any one. From all over thee country he has received testimonials of the highest praise, including the following:
Pittsburgh, Pa., October 30, 1891. To whom it may concern:
This is to certify that I, the undersigned, have recently received about one month's treatment by Dr. Keith at his Sanitarium with most gratifing results. My affliction consisted of nervous and spinal derangement of a chronic nature, including a serious, curvature of the spine. My spine is now straight and perfectly normal, having remained so to this date, which is three weeks from the time of my last treatment. My general health has been greatly improved. and I feel that Dr. Keith's treatment has started me on the road to the acquisition of that inestimable blessing, a sound body. Language cannot express my' gratitude. I most cheerfully tender this testimoial, with the earnest hope that it may influence many others among the afflicted to avail themselves of the rare skill and treatment offered at the Electic Sanitarium.
this testimonial, with the earnest hope that it may influence many others among the afflicted to avail themselves of the rare skill and treatment offered at the Electric Sanitarium. Florence Bonsali Alliance, Ohio, November 2, 1891
Being an uncle to the writer of the above letter and she having staid in my house during the time in which she was taking the electric treatment spoken of and so under my constant observation, I am fully able too corroborate all she says in regard to what the treatment has done for her. The rapidity and thoroughness of its effects have been truly wonderful.
H. C. PENNOCK. President of the Alliance Banking Company, and hardware dealer.
In 1865, Dr. Keith married Miss Alice Boss, and unto them was born a son, now deceased. He was gain married in 1889, his second union being with Miss Jennie Fisher, of Canton, Ohio. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the Grand Army of the Republic.
HON. SAMUEL C. BOWMAN. It can not be expected in a work of this kind, where but brief biographical sketches of prominent citizens of the county are mentioned, that we can do justice to this much-esteemed and representative gentleman. And yet, he has been identified with the county so long, has aided so in its development, and his name is so familiar to all, that it is only just to dwell upon his career, not as empty words of praise, but the plain statement of a still plainer truth. He was born in Franklin County, Pa., near Chambersburg, on the 6th of September, 1822, and his father and grandfather were natives of the Keystone State also. The latter Abraham Bowman first saw the light in the city of "Brotherly Love," and after reaching ma-
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ture years followed agricultural pursuits in Lebanon County, that State. His ancestors came originally from Baden, about 1725, and settled in Philadelphia, where they were among the representative families.
Abraban Bowman, Jr., the father of our subject, was born in Lebanon County, and was very early initiated into the duties of farm life. He married and followed agricultural pursuits in year 1829, Franklin County until they and then brought his wife and family by wagon and team to this State, settling one mile north from Massillon. he made many improvements in his place, was industrious and enterprising, and became the owner of three hundred acres of land. His death occurred in 1853. In politics, he was a Whig. His second marriage was to Miss Christina Krider, a native of Franklin County, Pa., and the daughter of John Krider, who was also born in Pennsylvania. Mr. Krider was a farmer, but in addition was a United Brethren preacher, and carried on his ministerial duties in his native State until his death. His father, Rev. Martin Krider, was also a minister in that church and assisted in organizing the conference. Mrs. Bowman died in 1868. Mr. Bowman's first marriage resulted in the birth of six children, all of whom Are deceased, and to his second marriage were born ten children, eight of whom are living. One son, Adam, was in the One Hundred and Fourth Regiment during the Civil War, was captured and died in Andersonville. Isaac was Sergeant of the Twenty-third Indiana Battery and served through the entire war, he is now deceased. Another son, Rev. Martin Bowman, was Chaplain in an Iowa regiment, and now resides at Miller, Dak.
Hon. Samuel C. Bowman, the fourth in order of birth of the children born to his father's second marriage, remained in his native State until seven years of age, and in 1829 came with his parents to Stark County, Ohio. He divided his time in youth between assisting on the farm and in attending the schools taught in the log schoolhouse of those days. Later, he supplemented this education by a course in Edenburg Academy and Hayesville Academy, also in a select school in Massillon. When twenty-one years of age, or in 1843 and 1844, he engaged in teaching school in his township and taught with much success for ten years, principally during the winter season, but with an occasional summer school. In 1852, he located in Massillon, clerked for some time, and then bought his employer out. After this, he went in partnership with I. N. Doxsee in the tin business on Erie Street, and this firm continued for four years. Mr. Bowman was then in partnership with a Mr. Taylor in the milling business, under the firm name of Taylor & Bowman, and later returned to the hardware business. In May, 1864, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio National Guards, and was mustered in as Second Lieutenant of Company A, and served in Columbus for the most part. He was mustered out in September of the same year.
Returning to his home, he resumed milling, and later embarked in the hardware business again, but in the fall of 1869 he was elected to represent Stark County in the State Legislature. So ably and satisfactorily did he fill this honorable position that he was re-elected in 1871, serving two terms. The last two years he was Chairman of the Committee on Geology, Mines and Mining, also on other committees. In 1872, he cast his vote for John Sherman. In politics, he is an ardent admirer of the principles of the Republican party, and has been a delegate to county and State conventions. He was a member of the State Republican Central Committee from this district. Our subject continued in the hardware business until 1880, when he closed out, and the same year was elected a member of the State Board of Equalization. From 1884 until 1886, he held the position of Mayor, and his administration was marked by the many necessary improvements made in the city. He has also been a member of the Council at different times and was President for some time. He is at present Justice of the Peace, has been Township Trustee for ten years, and was a member of the School Board for one term. He is prominent in all good work and is one of the representative men of the county.
On the 4th of January, 1849, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Sour, a native of Franklin Township, Summit County, Ohio (then Stark County),
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and the daughter of Jacob Sour, a farmer and early settler of that county. One child has been the result of this union, Ida, who was graduated in Massillon, and is now Mrs. Otto Uhlendorff. Mr. Bowman has shown his appreciation of secret organizations by becoming a member of the Masonic fraternity in 1855. He is a Knight Templar in that order, and has been Past Eminent Commander six different times.
PHILIP KRISHER. This name will be recognized by our readers throughout the county as one of its former prominent citizens, who was born in Massillon, June 16, 1838. During his life, he devoted his time and attention to cultivating the soil, and derived a good income from his operations, and in many ways aided in the development and upbuilding of Perry Township.
Peter and Catherine Krisher the parents of one subject, were born in Germany, and were early settlers in this section. Philip of this sketch, when reaching mature years, leaned the trade of a molder, which he followed for some time, working for a number of years in the shops of Russell & Co. His education, which was very limited, was obtained in the primitive schools, but nevertheless titled him to take charge of it home and the oversight of a family. March 4, 1861, he was married to Miss Catherine Gaharas, who was born January 2, 1843, in Germany, and was a daughter of Peter and Catherine Gaharas, both of whom were also natives of the Fatherland, and are now deceased. When in her eighth year, Mrs. Krisher emigrated to America with her parents, who located in Massillon, where the father, who followed his trade of a stone-mason, spent the remainder of his life.
Of the fourteen children born to our subject and his wife, we make the following mention: Clara (now Mrs. Bordner), George, Mary, Philip, William, Charles, Cora, Frank, Reuben, Edward, Alice, Ida, Herbert and Earl. In the spring of 1871, Mr. Krisher located with his family upon line farm where his widow now resides, and where his decease occurred February 10, 1886. As all agriculturist, he occupied a prominent place as one who understood his calling and pursued it with energy. Among his fellow-citizens, he bore the reputation of all industrious and business man, whose association with his neighbors was on at footing of kindness and good-will, and who, in his domestic relations, was affectionate and considerate.
He of whom we write in his religious affairs was a devoted member of the Evangelical Church. Socially, he was it member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, in which body he was an active worker. In politics he cast his vote with the Republican party, and as a gentlemen who was interested in the growth of his township, his example may well be emulated by the younger generation. Mrs. Krisher is not only a capable housewife, but possesses a Christian character, being a consistent member of the Evangelical Church. Since the death of her husband. she has, with the aid of her sons, carried on the operations of her farm, in which she takes great interest:. The estate includes one hundred acres, upon which is built a neat and tasteful residence, which is not only attractive in its external appearance., but is furnished in a manner to keeping with the circumstances and tastes of its owner.
HENRY S. FOLTZ. The broad acres and pleasant home of which Mr. Foltz is the
proprietor, and which are located in section 19, Jackson Township, are among its most pleasing features, and are a standing monument to his thrift, industry and perseverance. He is an excellent financier, having good judgement and fine business ability, as his property attests, and in the enjoyment of a good income and surrounded by his family, he finds that life is in-
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deed worth living. A native of Blair County, Pa., he was born March 9, 1849, a son of Adam Foltz, a native of Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany. The latter came to America at the age of fourteen years with his parents, and for some time was a resident of Franklin County, Pa., but in Blair County of that State he espoused Miss Margaret Stone, her birth having occurred in Bedford County, Pa. From the time of their marriage until their respective deaths, at the age of sixty-one and forty-four years, they were residents of Blair County, where they reared a family of four sons and three daughters, only two members of which family are now living: the subject of this sketch and his sister Sarah, the wife of Isaac Kurtz, of Osborne County, Kan.
Henry S. Foltz was the third son and sixth child born to his parents, and until he was twenty-one years of age he resided in his native county, where he was given the advantages of the common schools. He became familiar with the details of agriculture on his father's farm, and, after conning to Ohio, followed that occupation as an employe of others. He was married in Stark County, Ohio, December 24, 1878, to Miss Ellen Sprankel, the daughter of Henry and Susanna (Howenstein) Sprankel, notice of whom is given In the sketch of E.J. Sprankel. Mrs. Foltz was born on the farm on which she is now residing, although Mr. Foltz first located after his marriage in section 19, where he successfully tilled the soil until 1888, when he moved to where he now resides. His estate embraces one hundred and eighty acres of well-tilled and fertile land, on which he is giving his attention to general farming and stock. raising. He has not been exempt from the hardships of life, for he started to make his own way in the world with no means whatever, but he has never allowed disappointment or discouragement to cloud his hopes of ultimate success, and this has, without doubt, been a greater factor in his success in life.
He is a stanch Republican in politics, and is a well-posted and intelligent man, who has profited by the wide-spread spirit of journalism. His record is one of more than usual interest, owing to the fact that he had to snake his own way in the world, and is well worthy of emulation by young men who have to fight life's battles unaided. He is a supporter of the cause of education, and is giving his children all the advantages that he within his power. To himself and wife three sons and three daughters have been born: Katie, Edith, Amanda, and Harry living, and Henry and Homer deceased.
JOHN L. ARNOLD. The vocation of an undertaker is essentially a very delicate one and it involves for its successful prosecution which peculiarly important qualifications, but comparatively few individuals possess; and it is only by long experience, as well as natural aptitude, that a man is able to discharge his duty in that relation to the entire and unqualified satisfaction of those most deeply interested. Among the prominent houses engaged in this line of business, as well as the retail and wholesale furniture business, is that of John L. Arnold. This gentleman was born in Bavaria, Germany, in April, 1865, and his boyhood days were passed in his native country, where he received a common school and collegiate education, working during the day and attending night school until sixteen years of age. His father was a furniture manufacturer in Bavaria and our subject remained under the parental roof and assisted his father in the factory until seventeen years of age.
At that age, our subject decided that America was the land of promise for a struggling and ambitious young man, and he subsequently crossed the ocean to the United States. Landing in New York City, he went from there to Cincinnati, where he passed one winter. In the following spring, he went to Canal Dover and there worked at the cabinet-maker's trade for three years, when he formed a partnership with H. Worm, tender the firm name of Worm & Arnold, and embarked in the retail furniture business in Zanesville, Ohio. Later, he sold out to his partner, and in the spring
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of 1888 came to Canton, where he purchased the stock of George and Frank Sharer and continued the business at the same stand, No. 34 North Market Street, and then removed to his present location, No. 42 North Market Street. The storehouse is a five-story brick building, 24x130 feet, built especially for the furniture business, the whole structure from basement to garret being Occupied by Mr. Arnold. His stock is large and varied, consisting of the latest and most fashionable bedroom suits, parlor suits, and, in fact, everything kept in a first-class furniture store. He has a large trade and is popular with his customers, employing five clerks and seven men in the business. He keeps a fine stock of caskets of all sizes and make, and takes charge of all the details of funerals entrusted to his care, supplying carriages and equipments, etc.
He selected his life companion in the person of Miss Flora Gentz, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, and their nuptials were celebrated in the year 1886. Three interesting children, two sons and one daughter, have been born to this union. Mr. Arnold is a member of the Young Men's business Association and is one of the foremost men of the county. He is a prominent Mason, member of Eagle Lodge, Canton Chapter, Canton Commandery, K. T. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias ord is very active in social circles. He has a commodious and comfortable residence at No. 57 Newton Street, and is well fixed in life. He began business with very limited means, and by his industry and perseverance has been successful in all his undertakings.
CYRUS YOUNG was one of the most prominent farmers of Stark County, where he spent his entire life. He was born on a farm in section 36, Jackson Township, November 15, 1834, and was a son of Adam and Christina (Kirk) Young, both of whom were natives of the Keystone State, and became early settlers of Stark County, Ohio. When our subject was about five years of age, his parents removed from Jackson to Lawrence Township, where he was reared and educated.
After attaining to mature years, Mr. Young of this sketch married Margaret Sheafer, who was born in Lawrence Township, December 1, 1836, and is of German descent. Her grandfather, Philip Sheafer, was born in Germauy, and came to America when seven years of age. Her father, John Sheafer, was born in Bedford County, Pa., in 1793, and came to Stark County, Ohio, in 1818, locating on section 27, Lawrence Township. He was a plow-maker, and manufactured the old plows with the wooden mold-board. Before coming to the West, he was married in Somerset County, Pa., to Eva Wagner, who was born in that county in 1791. Her father was also of German birth. Mr. and Mrs. Sheafer continued to reside upon the farm which he improved in this comity until his death, which occurred in 1861. He was a Whig in politics, and served his township as Trustee. His wife passed away in 1875. They were highly respected people and had a wide circle of friends and acquaintances in this community. Their family numbered eight children, four sons and four daughters. One child died at the age of four years and another at sixteen years, while the remaining six grew to manhood and womanhood, but William and Susan are now deceased. The living are Mrs. Mary Bowman; Philip; Mrs. Margaret Young; and Maria Jane.
Margaret Sheafer spent the days of her maidenhood in Lawrence Township, and remained under the parental roof until the 8th of dune, 1848, when she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Young. Six sons and four daughter were born of their union, and, with one exception, all grew to nature years: Letitia J. is now the wife of J. W. Myers, of Canal Fulton; William S. resides in Dakota; Clement R. died in 1859; Frances E., is the wife of Philip Marganthaler, of Massillon; Mary M. is the wife of G. W. Leonard, of Cleveland; Charles F. wedded Isabella M. Walter; A. Lincoln is living in Greenville, Ohio; Cyrus O. resides in Lawrence Township; Philip is married and makes his home with his mother; and Violet M. is the wife of Loren
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C. Wyse, of Canton. Mrs. Young also has twenty-two grandchildren.
After his marriage, Mr. Young continued to run a threshing-machine in this county for eight years. He then purchased a tract of land and devoted his attention to farming and stock-raising, becoming one of the prominent agriculturists of the community. He was a public-spirited and progressive citizen, and was widely and favorably known in his native county. In politics, he was a stanch Prohibitionist during the last six years of his life and took an active part in the upbuilding and promotion of that party. His death occurred on April, 10, 1881, and his loss was mourned by many friends as well as by his immediate family. Mrs. Young, a most estimable lady, still resides on the old homestead, and her title farm is one of the best in the county.
EDWARD J . MEYER, proprietor of the Meyer's Lakeside Horse Form, which is beautifully located in the suburbs of Canton, two miles from the Court House, is a representative of one of the earliest families of Stark County. His entire life has here been passed, he having been born in this county, April 9, 1858. The great-grandfather, Francis Meyer, was a Colonel under Napoleon, and served in a number of wars under that famous general. He was on the Russian expedition, during which he saw the burning of Moscow, and was commander of a division of troops at the battle of Waterloo.
Andrew Meyer, the grandfather of our subject, was born in the ancient city of Bonn, on the Rhine, and at an early age entered the Austrian service and fought against the Turks. He was also in the French army for some time. He came to America in the latter part of the eighteenth century and settled in Baltimore, Md., where he worked as a brass molder and burnisher for the Government, during the early part of the War of 1812. He was also an officer in that war. he commanded troops at the battle of Bladenburg, and was one of the few who stood his ground in that disastrous engagement. For his bravery his General presented him with a fine rifle, which was one of his highly prized possessions through life. He was also at the bombardment of Baltimore. He came to Stark County in 1817, and purchased of Bazelee Wells twenty-two hundred acres of land, lying to the west and north of Canton and partly within the city limits, and for which he paid $11 per acre. He erected a house in the timber and there resided until 1822, when he began the erection of the large brick residence now occupied by our subject. The brick for this house was made on the farm, and the wood for finishing was hauled by wagon over the mountains from Baltimore, Md., and the flooring from Steubenville, Ohio. That residence in those days was considered a great curiosity, and people came from miles around to see it. Mr. Meyer devoted his life to superintending the clearing and developing his land. He was a man of large means and contributed liberally to everything pertaining to the upbuilding and promotion of the county's best interests. Indians were numerous when he settled here, and the squaws often came to his house to beg milk and bread for their papooses. Deer were plentiful and he killed many of them. His death occurred in Stark County in 1848, at the age of eighty-eight years.
Joseph Meyer, the father of our subject, was born and reared in Stark County, and educated at Emmitsburg College, of Maryland. He devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits. he owned fifteen hundred acres of land, which was operated under his personal supervision, and he raised large quantities of grain and much stock, including some very fine horses, he was a man of excellent business ability, was very progressive in his business ideas, and made his farm one of the best in Ohio. he also did much for the development and improvement of the county. he and the other heirs to his father's large farm gave twenty acres of land in the corporate limits of Canton for the site of the present Dueber-Hampden Watch Manufacturing Company, a mammoth establishment employing eleven hundred hands. Mr. Meyer mar-
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ied Catherine A. Meyer, of Baltimore, Md., and unto their were born five children: Elizabeth L., Edward J., Catherine C., George W. and Henry C. The father died at the age of fifty-six years, but the mother is still living and makes her home in Canton.
Edward J. Meyer, whose name heads this sketch, attended college in Louisville, and afterward spent three years in Emmitsburg College, where his father was educated. Subsequently, he was graduated from Duff's Commercial College, of Pittsburg, in 1876. He them settled on a farm on the Fulton road, west of Canton, where he resided three years, when he purchased the Meyer Lake property. This lake is two miles northwest of Canton and is named in honor of his grandfather. When our subject purchased the lake, it was almost a stagnant pool, but he cleared and has finely improved it. He built the Lakeview Hotel and transformed the place into nn elegant summer resort. Largely through his instrumentality, the electric street cars were built front the city to this place, and thousands of people mow go there almost daily for sport and recreation. Mr. Meyer continued to have charge of the summer resort for four years and them sold out.
In December, 1881, he married Helen C. Patton, a native of Canton, and unto then has been born a soil, Joseph E., who is now attending school in Cleveland, Ohio. Their home is a palatial residence, one of the finest in the State. In politics, out- subject is a Democrat.
In 1883, Mr. Meyer bought his present finely improved farm of three hundred acres from his brother, and began the breeding of fast horses. In 1889, the large training barn was built. It wars designed by Mr. Meyer, and is said to be the finest of its kind in the united States. He has a covered track running around the barn, a tenth of a mile in extent, and inside for training in the winter and had weather, and a half-mile track in the rear of the barn. Upon the place are many finely-bred horses, including "Black Cloud," the fastest Mambrino stallion in the world, with a record of 2:17 1/4. This home was purchased and taken from Kentucky to Michigan by Gem. Custer, and after the death of the General, he was the object of prolonged litigation. He made his record of 2:17 1/4 in the great champion stallion race in Chicago, in 1882. Another notable horse owned by Mr. Meyer is "Bud Crooke," a fine stallion, with a pacing record of 2:18, 1/4. He is the fastest pacing entire son of " George Wilkes," and the third fastest entire son in the world. Another stallion, with a running record of 1:14 1/2, is " Wanba." He was bred by Charles W. Bradley, of Richmond, Ky. Mr. Meyer also has a number of younger horses of great promise, among which are " Glassville" and" Pinkmink," the latter a beautiful seal-brown, with a three-year record of 2:40, son of the famous " Black Cloud." He also has upon his farm the great-great-granddaughter of the horse his grandfather rode to Stark County from Baltimore, Md., in 1817. The horses have been kept and bred on the farm ever since, and are very high-spirited and fine animals. The training barn is undoubtedly one of the best, if not the best, in the country. There is nothing lacking, and in some departments the barn is almost palatial. Mr. Meyer is unexcelled as a judge of horses, and is a true lover of the noble steed. He is a young and wealthy citizen of Stark County, very popular, and his success has been well deserved. he has acquired much of his properly I through his own efforts. In business, he is method real and systematic, reliable in all things, enterprising and progressive. Under a large oak tree standing in Mr. Meyer's yard, Beaver Cap, the famous Chief of the Wyandottes, at one time had his cabin. A large spring rises out of the earth near the tree.
FREDERICK BECK. The brightest day dream to many in lands far across the sea is of the time when they call seek their fortunes, in America, the land of whose resources they have heard such wonderful tales, and where opportunities are said to he far superior to those of the countries in which they live. Stark
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County has become the home of many foreigners who have carried out the dream of their early lives and have, indeed, seen the fruition of their hopes since they crossed the briny deep. One of this number is Frederick Beck, who is now residing in Tuscarawas Township and is engaged in the honorable occupation of a farmer.
As the name denotes, Mr. Beck is a German, and his birth occurred in Bavaria, November 7, 1835. He is the son of John L. and Margaret Beck, and acquired a good practical education in the excellent schools of the country. In 1849, he apprenticed himself to learn the baker's trade, and after working at this for three years, mastered the business, which he followed after coining to America until 1884, since which time he has been engaged in cultivating the soil.
Having fully determined to test the truth of the things he had heard regarding the United States, Mr. Beck crossed the Atlantic in 1866, setting sail from Bremen, and after a tedious voyage of twenty-four days landed on American shores. Thence he went directly to Cincinnati, where he followed his trade for some time, and then came to Massillon, where he was similarly employed for six years, at the end of which time he went to Akron, this State, where he prosecuted his trade of a baker for ten years on his own account, and was more than ordinarily successful in his undertaking.
The marriage of our subject was solemnized March 17, 1874, at which time Miss Catherine, daughter of John and Martha (Hoover) Whitmore, became his wife. Her father is deceased, but her mother, who is now one of the oldest pioneers in the county, has reached her eighty-second year. By their union, Mr. and Mrs. Beck have become the parents of four children, namely: Julius J., Joseph A., Augusta F., and Catherine M.
He of whom we write located upon his present farm in 1884, and his estate comprises a quarter section of valuable land, upon which he has placed the best of improvements in the way of buildings and machinery. he is self-made in all that the term implies, as his snug little fortune has been the result of his own untiring industry and good management. I n his political relations, he is independent, reserving the right to vote for the man whom he considers will best fill the position. He is a conscientious member of the Lutheran Church, and, socially, is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Massillon. In his contact with mankind, Mr. Beck is honorable as well as kindly inclined, and he therefore has the confidence of business men and the friendship of neighbors and acquaintances.
JOHN F. HUDSON, M. D. The profession of the physician is perhaps one of the most trying on brain and body of any in the field of science, for it absorbs the attention of him who practices it conscientiously, both day and night, and brings into play the most versatile powers of his being. Dr. Hudson was torn in Stark County, Ohio, on a farm four miles south of Canton, August 17, 1852, to John and Hannah (Long) Hudson, the former of whop was born in Pennsylvania, and died in 1866 at the age of fifty-one years, having been a carpenter and joiner by trade. The mother was born in Stark County, Ohio, in 1812, and died in the month of October, 1872. She was a daughter of Maj. William Long, and was a lady whose many estimable qualities endeared her to a large circle of friends.
Dr. John F. Hudson passed a rather uneventful boyhood, but received the inestimable advantages of being reared on a farm, for the pure air of the country and a suitable amount of labor for the development of his muscles tended to further strengthen his constitution and fit him for his future laborious calling. His early intellectual training was received in the common schools near his home, but he afterward spent two years in Canton Academy, and three years in Hiram College, Ohio. After teaching school for a time he began to lay the foundation for a medical career, his kindly nature instinctively turning to that field of human suffering for his life work, a profession whose noiseless, yet ofttimes marvelous, triumphs are unknown to the multitude. After reading for some-
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time with Dr. R. P. Johnson, of Canton, he began taking a course of lectures in the medical department of the Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, at which he was graduated in 1882. After practicing his profession with success for three years at North Industry, Ohio, he came to Canton, which city has since been the scene of his labors. His practice has steadily increased, fully keeping pace with Isis increasing reputation as a remarkably successful physician, and he is now in the enjoyment of a lucrative practice. Soon after entering upon his practice, the public began showing its appreciation of his ability, his earnest effort, and his conscientious devotion to the duties of his profession, as it always shows appreciation of genuine merit. He has the tact which makes fast friends of his patients, and he has the slave, polished and courteous manners which make him a favorite in social circles. fie is a member of several medical organizations and socially belongs to the Knights of Pythias. On the 7th of July, 1882, he was married to Miss Miranda Sinclair. of Sparta, Stark County, Ohio, a daughter of John C. Sinclair, and their marriage has resulted in the birth of two sons: R. Earl and Henry C.
Dr. Hudson has a pretty residence in the town, and here he and his wife dispense a refined and cordial hospitality to their many friends.
CHARLES VALENTINE HAMMERSMITH, who is engaged in the insurance business at represents the Ohio Famers' Massillon, Niagara of New York, Franklin Fire of Philadelphia and the Washington Union of Cleveland, all fire insurance companies. Mr. Hammersmith is a native of this county, having been born in Perry Township, two miles northeast of this city, June 1, 1855, his father, Adam Hammersmith, was born in Bavaria, Germany, and when a boy came to America and located in Massillon, where he worked out on farms for a time and later learned the cabinetmaker's trade. Mr. Hammersmith, after following that line of work for some time, became a pattern-maker and engaged to work for Hart & Brown.
In the fall of 1854, the father of our subject purchased a farm, upon which he resided and at the same time worked in the shops of Russell & Co., walking to the city every day. His farm comprises sixty-five acres of well-improved land, upon which he has erected buildings of every description. In November, 1879, he assumed the agency of the Ohio Farmers' Fire Insurance Company in partnership with our subject and met with more than ordinary success in his Undertakings. He has been very prominent in local affairs and has served in the responsible positions of Constable, Justice of the peace, and Township Trustee. In his political relations, he is a Democrat and a devoted member of the Catholic Church. The maiden name of his wife was Margaret Fries; she was also born in Bavaria, Germany, and was the daughter of John Fries; she came to the United States in 1833, when very small.
Of the four children who grew to mature years, our subject is the youngest of the family. he was given nun excellent education, supplementing the knowledge gained in the common schools amy au attendance of three terms in the Smithville Academy and was later graduated from the High School at Massillon in the Class of '79. He then took a course in the Commercial College at Pittsburgh, from which he was graduated in 1881. After completing his studies, Mr. Hammersmith continued on the farm and also worked with his father in the insurance business until 1888, when he located in Massillon and devoted his entire time and attention to his present business.
August 29, 1883, our subject and Miss Annie E., daughter of Jacob Heinrich were united in marriage. Her father was a native of Germany and a shoemaker by trade. He is now living a retired life, however, having accumulated a sufficiency of this world's goods to keep him in peace and plenty. Her mother who also was a native of Germany, bore the maiden name of Mary Kessel and came with her parents to this country, where she was married. 'the father was a Democrat in politics and a Catholic in religion.
Mr. Heinrich was a fine musician and for a time
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was cornet instructor and lender of the old silver band. The three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hammersmith are Anthony A., Mary A., and John Valentine. The parents are members in good standing of the Catholic Church and the father in politics is a Democrat. He is a man who has always met with success in worldly affairs and ranks high in commercial circles. Fortune having smiled upon his efforts, he is numbered among the wealthy citizens of this place, having a good business and owning a line residence, where he and his family enjoy all the comforts that heart call desire and money purchase.
DAVID ERB, The agricultural districts of this great Commonwealth are the homes of scores of worthy men whose lives have been spent in such a manner as to win the respect of those with whom they associate, while their well-directed efforts have resulted in comfortable homes and many enjoyments. In Stark County frequent representatives of this class may be found aid one of them is lie whose history will be outlined in these paragraphs. His home is located on section 15, Tuscarawas Township, where he has a thoroughly tilled farm, consisting of eighty-two acres, whereon may he found such buildings as are made necessary by the extent of his work or will increase the comfort of his home life.
Mr. Erb was born in Lancaster County, Pa. His parents were also natives of the Keystone State and his great-grandfather Erb was born in Germany. Owing to the comparatively new surroundings of his boyhood, our subject received but a limited education, the early public schools of his native State having in their curriculum only the common branches. In these he was well grounded and being imbued with native intelligence and a desire for information, lie has by reading, observation and experience become well informed. When sixteen years of age, he left home and learned the trade of a boot and shoemaker, which he followed for ten years.
He of whom we write was married, September 23, 1851, to Miss Maria Yost, who was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, August 10, 1823. She was a daughter of John and Mary Yost, who were also natives of the Fatherland, and when seven years of age accompanied them on their emigration to America. The family lived for a time in Philadelphia, whence they later removed to Montgomery and then to Lancaster County, that State, where they spent their last days. Mr. and Mrs. Erb are the parents of five children, four of whom are living, namely: Franklin Y., Henry, Linda, and John. Charles is deceased.
In 1853, our subject with his wife and one child emigrated to this State and after milking their home a short time in Wayne County, came the same year to Stark County, locating in Tuscarawas Township, where they now reside, and where he has since been classed among its best agriculturists. His intelligence, enterprising nature and honorable dealings ],five given him tun excellent standing in business circles, where his word is considered as good as his bond. Ile has materially contributed to the growth of Stark County, and since residing here has taken an interest in its welfare.
WILLIAM H. BRAUCHER. When the agriculturists of any community are composed of men and women of courage, enterprise, intelligence and integrity, prosperity will attend all departments of their work, and this is preeminently the case with the farmers of Stark County, of whom Mr. Braucher is one of the foremost. He was born in the township in which lie is now residing May 8, 1838, to John and Anna (Lichtenwaller) Braucher, the former of whom was born in Somerset County, Pa., March 1, 1811, and the latter in Ohio, August 27,
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1817, their marriage taking place it, the latter State January 14, 1836. After the celebration of this event, they located on a firm in Jackson Township, on which had been erected a small log house and a log barn, and this place continued to be their home until 1846, when they moved to the farm on which the subject of this skctcli now lives. In 1867, lie removed to section 11, of Jackson Township, but at (lie end of six months returned to the old homestead, where lie spent his last days, dying September 30, 1885, his wife's death occurring on the 21th of September, 1853.
The paternal grandfather, Daniel Braucher, wits a Pennsylvanian, who came to Ohio in 1822, becoming one of flue first settlers of Stark County. He settled ou a farm ill Jackson Township, oil which no improvements had been made, hat at once erected thereon a small log house, which was without windows, doors or a floor, and oil this farm remained until his death in 1853• 'flue maternal grandfather, Jacob Liclitencaller, was also born in Pennsylvania and was an early settler of Stark County, Ohio. After the death of his first wife, John Braucher married Christina Mutchler, November 15, 1855, at which time she was thirty-two years of age. His first union resulted in the birth of four sons and four daughters: Sarah, deceased; William H.; Manias, who was killed in the battle of Buzzard's Roost; Polly, wife of John Young; Allan, a resident of Noble ('ouuty, Ind.; Catherine N., Wife of Isaac Hossler, of this county; and two children that died in infancy.
William H. Braucher was giver the advantages of the schools near his home and until Ire was twenty-eight years of age lie made his home under the shelter of the parental roof. September 23, 1866, lie was married to Miss Ellen S. Barnhard a native of Adams County, Pa., where she was born February 13, 1812. At the age of eight years, she was brought by her parents, John and Salome (Nuts) Barnhard, to Stark County, Ohio, and here grew to womanhood mud was married. Her father and mother were seventy-one and eighty years of age respectively at the time of their deaths. Of six children born to them Mrs. Braucher was the eldest. After his marriage, Mr Braucher located on the farm on which he now lives, and here his six children were born: Alban Henry, a carpenter by trade; John Harvey, who has attended the Capitol University of Columbus, Ohio, for two and a half years; Orin Edwin, Leo William, George W.T. and Anna Salome.
Mr. Braucher's land comprises one hundred and fifty-eight acres, all of which is well improved. He has tilled this land ever since boyhood, for it is his father's old homestead, and every foot of the ground is dear to him. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, and keeps a good grade of houses, cattle and hogs. Politically a Democrat, lie has been Township Treasurer and Assessor, the duties of which positions he ably discharged. He and his family are members of St. Jacob's Lutheran Church, in which lie has been a Deacon for many years, and in which he is an active worker.
MATHIAS GROVEMILLER occupied a foremost place among the farmers of Stark, County. His firm, which comprised one hundred and seventy-seven and ore-half acres, was of of surpassing fertility, which was very carefully cultivated, yielding excellent crops, and its improvements were substantial and included everything necessary for conducting agriculture properly. Since his death, which occurred February 26, 1875, the farm has been operated by his excellent wife and sons.
Like many of the best residents of this county, our subject was born across the ocean in Germany, the date thereof being 1816. In 1833, when a young man, he determined to seek his home in .America. and on coming hither made his way direct to this county and located in the city, of Canton, where he resided for a number of years. In the spring of 1861, he took up his abode in Perry Township. locating on a farm where his widow is at present residing. He was married March 4, 1861, to Miss Mary Smith who was born in this county, October 4, 1833. She was the daughter of
326 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
John and Nancy (Schriever) Smith, the former of whom was a native of Lancaster County, Pa. He removed to this county at an early day, however, where his death occurred in October, 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Grovemiller became the parents of six children, viz.: John; Emma, Mrs. Jacob Baunach; William, Amanda, Lydia and Edward.
Mr. Grovemiller of this sketch was a man of excellent reputation, thrifty and skillful in the management of his affairs, and was one of the solid citizens of the township. He was a member of the German Reformed Church and was a devout Christian, as was shown by his conduct in all the affairs of life. In his political relations, he voted with the Democratic party. He received an excel-lent education in the model schools of his native country, and when old enough to choose an occupation for himself became a farmer.
The farm which our subject left at his decease comprised one hundred and seventy-seven and one-half acres, which is being finely cultivated and supplied with an excellent class of buildings. His wife is a member of the Lutheran Church and a most excellent lady, possessing, as did her husband, the virtues of a true Christian. He was a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, of Canton.
JAMES B. SMITH. Stark County is fortunate in that the farmers who form such an important proportion of her population are in general a highly intelligent, energetic, thrifty, and business-like set of men. Of one of those, James B. Smith, we write. His farming operations center on section 32, Perry Township, where he has eighty acres of land under good cultivation, and supplied with all the necessary improvements that go to make up a desirable farm.
Our subject was born February 15, 183.5, is a native of this county, and the son of Benjamin and Mary (Coder) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania. The Coder family were among the earlier pioneers of this township, having located upon new land in this section in 1818. The father of our subject emigrated overland with a team to this county in 1830, in company with his parents, and after arriving herein Stark County, resided for a short time in Bethlehem, now Navarre, when it contained but is few houses. He later removed to the farm which is the present home of our subject, which he set industriously about clearing and improving. Of the large family of children of which lie was the father, three are now living, viz.: Our subject; Frances. the wife of William Paden, and Harriet. Of the second union of Benjamin Smith, there were born two children, Charles K., and Mary, the latter of whom is deceased.
The father of our subject was a prominent and influential member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and contributed liberally toward the erection of the new church building. In early life, he was a Democrat in politics, but Inter, finding that he had sufficient cause for changing his views, joined the ranks of the Republican party, with which he voted until his decease, which occurred December I1, 1871. The mother of our subject departed this life January 15, 1846, and was, like her husband, a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
James B. Smith, of this sketch, received his education in the pioneer log schoolhouse in the vicinity of his home, and rendered his father great assistance in clearing the farm and placing it under good tillage. He is now residing upon the old homestead, and has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits, in which calling he has been more than ordinarily successful. Mr. Smith was always greatly interested in local affairs, and for many years served as an efficient member of the School Board, and during his administration many changes were made in the school system, and buildings were erected to accommodate the growing population.
May 1, 1856, Mr. Smith and Miss Julia Rem-pis were united in marriage. The lady, who is the daughter of Lewis and Louisa (Burk) Rempis, was born in Massillon, February 16, 1834. She has become the mother of five children, namely: Abner, who is deceased; Olive L., a teacher in Al-
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bany, N. Y.; William N., who is residing in Montgomery County, Mo.; Harvey B. and Franklin J., are at home.
As before stated, our subject owns eighty acres of land, and during his life possessed those traits of character that won consideration and confidence. He is an active politician, a thoroughly good Republican, and one who interested himself in all that concerned his township. He is a prominent member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Massillon, and is identified with its every good work.
The parents of Mrs. Smith had a family of seven children, of whom four are living: Charles; Amelia, Mrs. Smith; Henry, and Catherine, Mrs. Daniel Rager. Mr. and Mrs. Rempis were born in Wurtemberg, Germany, and were members in good standing of the Lutheran Church.
CHARLES D. PAINTER, M. D. Among the well-known physicians of Alliance, Dr. Painter holds is prominent place, which is due to his professional skill and knowledge. Dur ing more than a decade, he has been doing his utmost to alleviate suffering in and about the city and his zeal, carefulness and sympathy are duly appreciated by a large circle of patrons and friends. He was born in Salem, this State, April 26, 1858, and is the son of Dr. Elwood G. and Louisa J. (White) Painter, also natives of the Buckeye State.
The father of our subject was also a physician, and a graduate of the Western Homeopathic College of Cleveland. When locating for the practice of his profession, he settled in Alliance, in 1860, and was therefore its pioneer homeopathic physician. He was not only well versed in medical lore, but was a man of broad culture and extensive information on topics of general interest. lie attained to is high place in the medical fraternity and was very successful in a financial way, accumulating a large amount of property. In his death, which occurred in 1866, Stark County lost one of its most progressive and influential citizens, one who was popular and active in all good works, and respected as he deserved by all who knew him.
Our subject, who is the eldest child born to his parents, prosecuted his early studies in Alliance and completed his education in Bethany College, West Virginia, from which institution he was graduated in 1879. Desiring to become a physician, he read medicine under Dr. R. B. Johnson ,of Ravenna, this State, and was graduated with the Class of '82 from the Cleveland Homeopathic Hospital College. Establishing himself in this city, he opened an office where he has been successful in prolonging life, thereby winning a name which is held in honor throughout a wide circle.
In 1882, Dr. Painter and Miss Carrie J. McGirr, who was born in this county, were united in marriage. The lady is the daughter of Rezin and Cassandra McGirr, and by her union with our subject has become the mother of two children, Elwood B. and Lorene. Upon Dr. Painter the mantle of his father seems to have fallen, as he has an excellent reputation extending throughout the county, and from a mind filled with facts and theories he judiciously selects those adapted to the case in hand. In taking it literary course, he was graduated with the honors of his class. Socially, lie is a member of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Society, and is also connected with the fraternity of several different colleges.
IRA M. ALLEN was for many years a prominent educator of Eastern Ohio, and is now living a retired life in Canton. He was born in Rensselaer County, N. Y., on the 11th of May, 1821, and comes of an old family of New England. His grandfather, Samuel Allen, was born in Rhode island, and was of Scotch-Irish extraction, He married Patience Spoon, whose father,
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Va sea-captain, was of English and Welsh descent. Caleb Allen, father of our subject, was born in Rensselaer County, July 15, 1787, and married Hulda Dawley, who was born in Rhode Island on the 18th of October, 1788, and was of Welsh lineage. They began their domestic life in his native county, where they spent several years, when they removed to Cayuga County. Later, they became residents of Ontario County, N. Y., where they resided until their deaths. Mr. Allen lived the quiet, retired life of a farmer and was a man of sterling worth.
Our subject was the fifth in a family numbering four sons and two daughters, of whom three are now living. His boyhood days were spent upon his father's farm and his early education, acquired in the district schools, was supplemented by study in Skaneateles Academy. At the age of eighteen years, lie began teaching in Ontario County, N. Y., where he followed his chosen profession until 1842. In the spring of that year, lie came to Massillon, Stark County, Ohio, where lie was enployed as a teacher until 1847. Coming to Canton, lie then took charge of a select school, which loe carried on until 1850, when the city adopted the union school law-the third city in the State to take advantage of this law. In 1854, Mr. Allen went to Massillon and took charge of the Charity Rotch School of that place, which he superintended until 1864. In that year, he gave up his school work and turned his attention to farming, which he followed until 1869, when he was elected Treasurer of Stark County for a term of two years. Faithfully did he perform his duties, and on the expiration of his term he was re-elected, serving in all for four years.
Mr. Allen has found a faithful companion and helpmate in his estimable wife, whom lie wedded May 29, 1844. In her maidenhood, she was Ella O. Graham, daughter of Hon. John Graham and Susan (Troop) Graham, the former of whom served as State Senator of Stark County. They were both natives of Pennsylvania. Unto them have been born five children: Alice, who died in 1875; John C. married Mary Flather, Canton, and died in October, 1890, leaving a wife and two sons; Florence H.; Emma S., wife of L. Sollmann, a druggist of
Canton; and Ella O. The family resides at No. 420 South Market Street, where they have a good home in the midst of pleasant surroundings.
After retiring from the Treasurer's office, Mr. Allen was variously employed until 1878, when he again went to Massillon and had charge of the Charity Rotch School for another decade.' lie was a most excellent educator, possessing superior ability in instructing youthful minds, anal many who have been successful in various walks of life have reason to thank him for the aid lie gave in their younger years. His life has been devoted to school work and he has done much in the interests of education in this community. For more than thirty years lie was a member of the County Board of School Examiners.
On attaining his majority, Mr. Allen affiliated with the Democratic party, which lie continued to support until the organization of the Republican party, of which lie has since been a stanch advocate. lie is a prominent citizen of this community, widely and favorably known, and is highly respected by all.
JOHN SMITH. The farmers of Stark County are, as a class, men of business integrity, industrious habits and excellent moral character, and even a brief outline of their lives is worthy of the consideration of all who appreciate true worth. One who has been identified with the interests of Perry Township for several decades, and who is known among his friends as one of the most energetic agriculturists and worthy citizens of the township, is John Smith, whose farm is pleasantly located on section 24. The one hundred and twenty-seven broad acres which stretch around his residence are a standing monument to his persistence and zeal and his financial efforts.
Our subject was horn in 1808, in Pennsylvania, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Smith. When a small boy, his parents emigrating to this county, he accompanied them hither, the
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trip being made overland with a team and wagon. They took up their residence in Canton Township, where they were honored members of the farming community. John, of this sketch, passed his youth on the home farm, and attended the district schools, in the intervals of study assisting his father in such ways as were suited to his years and strength, and upon attaining his majority began farming on his own account. lie remembers well when deer and wild turkeys were numerous in the Buckeye State, and when the country was in a comparatively primitive condition.
In his political relations, he is a stauch Democrat, which party he believes to lie in the right. lie is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, and is an active worker and liberal contributor in that body. Mr. Smith has not only advanced His personal interests and surrounded himself with all the comforts of modern farm life, but lie has manifested an intelligent interest in the public welfare and has from time to time aided in the enterprises that pertain to that result. He has never married, and is living the life of a jolly bachelor. A sketch of his brother, Joseph Smith, appears on another page in this volume.
MAHLON SLUTS. Stark County has within her borders many citizens who have been successful financially and are now living in retirement in tine enjoyment of an ample income. Our subject, who is residing in Pike Township, is one of these and was formerly one of the prominent farmers and stock-raisers of this section. By persistent, well-directed labor, seconded by sound discretion and clear judgment, he accumulated a goodly amount of property and is now spending his declining years free front the cares and toils of his early life. Although he has sold a large portion of his laud, lie is still the proprietor of two hundred and six acres and has one of the most pleasant and attractive home in the township.
A native of this State, our subject was born in Fairfield Township, 'I'uscarawas County, July 17, 1812, while his father, Samuel Sluts, was born in Frederick County, Md., in 1783. John Sluts, the grandfather, was born in the city of Baltimore, Md., in 1755, and the great-grandfather of our subject, who was a native of Germany, came to America in Colonial times flail made his home in Baltimore, where lie lived and died. John Sluts was apprenticed to learn the trade of a wheelwright when sixteen years of age, find soon after entered the service of the Colonists in the Revolutionary War. Later in life, lie operated as "mine host" at an hotel for fifteen years, which was located on the road from Frederick town to Libertytown, Md. As early as 1806, lie cane by the overland route to this State, and in Jefferson County purchased a quarter-section of land near East Springfield, which had upon it a double log cabin. This tract lie partially improved and at the time of his decease, in 1833, was the owner of six hundred and forty acres of land. His career asa farmer was characterized by activity, close attention to his labors and skillful management of his interests.
John Sluts retired a family of eighteen children, by two marriages, his first union being with Miss Margaret Howe, a native of Holland, who bore him four children, of whom the father of our subject was the eldest. On the death of his wife, lie married Miss Catherine Welch,of Irish descent, by whoa he became the father of fourteen children. In religious affairs, he was :n consistent member of the Methodist Church and in politics was a stauch Democrat.
When twenty-three years of age, the father of our subject accompanied his sire to this State, and the following fall returned to Maryland, where lie was married. His wife died one year later and he again came to this state, where, in 1810, lie married Miss Sarah Vague, who was born in the Old Dominion in 1788. She was at that time, however, residing in Tuscarawas County, whither site bad been brought try her parents in 18118. They became the parents of four children, of wholl, out' subject was the eldest, his brother and sisters being: Susan, Mrs. Critehet; Mahala, who died at
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the age of three years and William. After their marriage, the parents of our subject located in a log cabin in Tuscarawas County, where the father died in 1821. Mrs. Sluts later married Peter Houseman, by whom she became the mother of four children: Nancy, John, Eliza and Perry A. She departed this life in Hardin County, May 17, 1857.
The maternal grandfather of our subject, Francis Hague, was born in Virginia, where lie married Miss Ruth Radican, who was of Welsh-Irish extraction. Mahlon Sluts of this sketch remained in his native county until a lad of twelve years when, his father having died years three previously, lie was compelled to leave home on account of the treatment of his step-father. The latter ordered him to do work which Ire was not able to do, with the command that lie was to perform it or leave home, so laying the matter before his mother, and telling her that he would have to away, she provided him with a pillow-case in which was placed a shirt, an arithmetic and slate. Thus equipped for the battle of life our young hero started out in the wide world and going to the home of his uncle, James Sluts, there learned the trades of a tanner and distiller.
Upon attaining his majority, our subject established a home of his own, and was married, March 23, 1834, to Miss Rebecca Walborn, who was born March 11, 1816, in Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Leonard and Sarah (Eshwi) Walborn, also natives of the Keystone State. The fattier having died there, the mother married a second time, and on the overland trip to this county in 1823 was accompanied by tier daughter, Mrs. Sluts. To our subject -lad his wife has been granted a family of seven children, five of whom are living, namely: Samuel W., Sarah A. (Mrs. Howenstine), George J., Rebecca J. (Mrs. Brittain), and William L. John M. died when ten years of age and another in infancy.
After his marriage, the original of this sketch made his home in Holmes county, this State, where lie owned eighty acres of land. He resided there but a few mouths, however, when he sold his property and came to this county, where he purchased one hundred and thirty acres itl Sugar Creek Township. This he operated for three and one-half years, and then sold on account of moving to Carroll County. In the latter-named place, he made his home for nine years, and during that time became the owner of several different farms. In 1848, he returned to Stark County and purchased his present valuable estate, which, since it came into his possession, has been greatly changed as he has placed upon it good buildings, fences and every thing needful for carrying on farming to the best advantage. At one time, he was the proprietor of three hundred and twenty broad acres, of which he sold one hundred and eleven acres, which still leaves him a large and beautiful estate. he has given his children the best advantages in the way of obtaining an education and presented them each with *1,000 in money when leaving the parental roof to go to homes of their own.
Mr. Sluts was engaged in agricultural pursuits until the past seventeen years, when he retired from active work and has his farm operated by tenants, from the rental of which he derives a goodly income. He had no special advantages in his youth but on the contrary began his life work with a limited education but all abundant store of enterprise and determination, and it is doubtful if Stark County contains a better example of what in the West would be called a " hustler " than our subject. His farm is one of the best in the county, every rod of it being made useful and ornamental and displaying the hand of a master in its appearance, fertility and the improvements that it bears.
March 23, 1884, our subject and his wife were given a pleasant surprise by their children, it being the fiftieth anniversary of their married life. About forty relatives and friends were present, and in the course of the evening Mi'. Sluts was made the recipient of another surprise by being presented with a handsome gold-headed cane. Mr. and Mrs. Sluts have been members i f the church for a half century, and at the present time are identified with the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and it is their constant endeavor so to order their lives that they will bring no discredit upon the church but on the contrary extend its influence,
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He of whom we write witnessed the running of the first canal boat in 1828, and saw the first train in 1851. In the early times, he harvested his wheat crop by means of a sickle, but has kept apace with all of the improvements in the way of farm machinery and has his place equipped with modern implements of all kinds. A Democrat prier to the organization of the Republican party, he worked as a member of its ranks for ten years, but at the present time is a stanch Prohibitionist and has worked untiringly in pushing forward the good cause in his locality.
ALONZO B. WALKER, one of the prominent and successful physician and surgeons
of Stark County, engaged in practice in Canton, has the honor of being a native of the Buckeye State. He was born in New Somerset, Jefferson County, in 1851, nud when a lad of twelve summers came with his parents to Stark County. He acquired his literary education in the district schools, the Waynesburgh High School and Mt. Union College, after which tie taught school one winter. From his childhood he has read medicine, seeming to have a special aptitude for that science. He early developed a taste for surgery, and after thorough training was graduated from the University of Philadelphia, I's., in 1872.
Dr. Walker entered upon the practice of his chosen profession in Canton in the spring of 1873, and since that time has devoted his energies to his life work. His labors have been eminently successful, and he has won an enviable position among his professional brethren, and at the same time has gained a large and lucrative practice, which attests his skill and ability. In the winter of 1879-80, he attended a course of lectures in the Rush Medical College of Chicago and the following winter entered the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, Pa., from which he was graduated in the spring of 1881. During that time he took a special course of surgery under Prof, J. Ewing Mears, he is a member of the Union Medical Association of Northeastern Ohio, the Ohio State Medical Society, the American Medical Association and the Ninth International Medical Congress.
On the 6th of September, 1876, in Waynesburgh, Ohio, the Doctor was married to hiss Mira Stull, and by their union have beer born two daughters, Helen and hazel, who are still with their parents. They reside at No. 44 West Tuscarawas Street, where they have a handsome home, beautifully and tastefully furnished.
Dr. Walker is a gentleman in the highest sense of the word; affable and courteous in manner and of kindly disposition, he wins friends wherever he goes and carries away with him the good wishes and kindly regard of fill with whom he conies in contact. he is a skillful and practical surgeon and physician and his tender and thoughtful care and patience at the bedside of the sick find suffering have won him the love of many. The Doctor is well worthy the success which has already crowned his efforts mid his future will no doubt be a brilliant one.
JOHN F. NIESZ, of the firm of Niesz Brothers, dealers in boots and shoes, of Canton, has
I been engaged in business in this line since 1888, when with Ins brother, C. B. Nie z, and «'. S. Allen, he opened a store under the firm name of Niesz Brothers & Allen, at No. 42 South Market Street. The store in which they are located is 20x100 feet, and they use the first floor and the basement. They carry a full and complete line of bouts and shoes and rubber goods, and are now enjoying an excellent trade, which has constantly increased from the beginning.
Mr. Niesz was born on a farm south of Canton on tine 2d of May, 1846, and is a representative of one of the oldest famihes of Stark Comity. His great-grandparents removed from Pennsylvania to this county in 1806, when his grandfather, John
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Niesz, was a lad of only seven summers. His father, William Niesz, was born on the old homestead in 1824, and is still residing on the farm in Canton Township. He married Delilah Roush, a native of this county and n daughter of Frederick Roush, one of the early settlers. She died on the home farm in 1855, leaving six children. Mr. Niesz was Again married and by the second union has four children.
Our subject was the second child of thefirst marriage. During his early boyhood he aided in the labors of the farm and attended the district schools. When only eighteen years of age, he responded to the country's call for troops, in January, 1865, enlisting in Company A, One Hundred and Eighty-sixth Ohio Infantry. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland and slid garrison duty. Mr. Niesz served for eight months and was honorably discharged on the 26th of September, 1865, after which he returned to the parental roof. Not content with the education he had acquired, he entered Greersbnrg Seminary, where he pursued his studies two terms, and then became a student in Mt. Union College, where he remained four terms. To school teaching he then turned his attention in the winter season, whHe in the summer months he engaged in farm labor.
In 1870, Mr. Niesz was married to Miss Mary L. Brenner, a native of Lancaster County, Pa., and a daughter of John It. Brenner. They began their domestic life upon the farm, and two children came to bless their home: John W. and Gracie F. The mother departed this life February 5, 1878, and Mr. Niesz married Miss Fannie L. Brenner, a sister of his fiat wife. By this union two interesting children have been born: Ada May and Frederick Garfield.
After his first marriage, Mr. Nieszz devoted his attention to general farming and market gardening until 1888, when he embarked in business as before stated. His home is just outside the corporation limits of Canton, on the Waynesburgh road, where he owns sixteen acres of valuable land. His home and the other buildings upon the farm are in keeping with the enterprising and progress. Live spirit of the owner. Mr.. Niesz is connected with several social organization, being a member of Canton Post No. 25, G. A. R., the Grange, the Farmers' Alliance and American Mechanics' Association. In politics, he is a Republican. he is a good business man, who by courteous treatment and fair dealing lilts won a liberal patronage which he well deserves.
JOSEPH FOLK one of the representative citizens of Stark County, was born in Nimishillen Township, Stark County, Ohio, on the 6th of July, 1847, And is the son of Peter and Lydia (Reese) Folk, both natives of Ohio, the former born in Stark County, October 26, 1826, And the latter in Washington Township, the same county, on the 22d of October, 1822.
Our subject's paternal grandparents, Peter and Catherine (Miller) Folk, were from the Eastern States, the former born close to the line between Pennsylvania and Maryland, and the grandmother born in Westmoreland County, Pa. The great-grandfather of our subject, George Folk, was born in Germany, and came with his parents to America when but four years of age. Peter Folk, Sr., grew to manhood in Pennsylvania, where he was married, and where all his children were born, three daughters and two sons. One of the daughters died in infancy. Elizabeth married Frederick Herbster, whose home was in Stark County, Washington Township, where her descendants still live. She left eight children by her first husband, and one by her second husband, Abraham Lutz. Catherine married Joshua Lentz, and they resided in Washington Township, this county; she died leaving four children. John resided for many years in Nimishillen Township, on the old homestead, where he died about 1881, when over eighty years of age. he left four children.
Peter Folk, Jr., the father of our subject, was born in Ohio, after the family had removed to that State, and he was thirteen years younger than any of the other children. His grandfather had entered a section of land in Nimishillcn Township,
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.335
and he gave that section to his three sons, two of whom made their homes on it. Peter Folk, Jr., attained hits growth on the farm entered by his grandfather, And received a fair education for his day. His early life was spent in hard labor in clearing the farm, and Amid pioneer scenes. he was married a little before his twenty-first birthday, on the 11 th of December, 1846, to Miss Reese, And shortly afterward his father gave him one hundred And six acres of land. This young couple began housekeeping in a log house, and although they had little else to begin with save willing hands And any Amount of energy, they met with much success, and were classed among the substantial and representative citizens of the county. In 1858, Air. Folk purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Michigan, but sold that in 1878. In 1847, he erected a good bank barn, and in 1861, a fine residence, which still stands. The farm now belongs to his son Joseph, the subject of this sketch, and has been in the family for four generations. Only two children were born to them, Joseph and Nancy. The latter married Peter Yader (see sketch). The fattier of these children is a Republican in politics, mad his first Presidential vote was cast in 1848, for Gen. Taylor. He has been School Director for fourteen or fifteen years in succession, and is a member of the Progressive Brethren Church, in which he is a Trustee.
The original of this notice, like the majority of boys reared on the farm, passed his youthful days assisting his father And Attending the district school, where he received a fair education. On the 4th of September, 1864, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Ohio Infantry, and was in the Twenty-third Corps. He was first in Tennessee, but subsequently joined Sherman's army at Goldsboro, N. C., and was there at the surrender of Johnston. he wits under fire at Cedar Flats, and also at Kingston, N. C., and had a number of narrow escapes, but was never wounded. He was never taken prisoner, and he was never off duty but one day. On the 28th of June, 1865, he was honorably discharged, and returned to the parental roof, where, in connection with farming, he ran a threshing-machine, he and his partner operating the first steam-thresher in the county. Iu 1872, he bought a one-half interest in a sawmill on his father's place, and this he still operates.
Mr, Folk was married on the 14th of December, 1873, to Miss Eliza A. Miller, of Louisville, Ohio, where she was born on the 3rd of December, 1847. Her parents, Peter And Barbara (Kit4ensteill) Miller, were natives of France And America, respectively. After marriage, our subject and wife resided with the former's father for five years, And then our subject purchased the home place. he resided on this until December, 1891, and then removed to his fine residence in Louisville, where he now makes his home. He has no children. Like his ancestors before him, our subject advocates the platform of the Republican party, anal is deeply interested in politics. he has been Trustee for three years, find in 1889 he was nominated by his party for Director of the County Infirmary, but its the county is largely Democratic, he was beaten. he is a member of the Reformed Church, As is also Mrs. Folk. he is a member of Canton Post No. 25, G, A. R., of Canton; is Also a member of the Junior Order of United Americana Mechanics, Louisville Council No. 152.
ANDREW MEYER in the agricultural circles of Stark County, the late Andrew Meyer was by universal consent accorded in high place. He was eminently successful in a financial sense, exhibited clearness of perception and soundness of judgment, And, moreover, enjoyed a reputation for moral worth and integrity of character that is a proud heritage to his children. he was one of the most prominent farmers in Canton Township, where he had a valuable estate, located on section 5.
He of whom we write was the second son of Andrew Meyer, Sr., who was one of the early settlers of Stark County, having come hither across the mountains from Baltimore, Md., as early as 1817. Purchasing twenty-two hundred acres of
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land in Canton Township, he turned his attention to its development, find succeeded before his death in placing the greater part of it under excellent cultivation. he had a high reputation as a man of unswerving integrity, who did as he would be done by, and was looked upon as one of the most valued citizens.
The father of our subject was born in the city of Bonn, on the Rhine, and when quite young, entering the Austrian service, fought against the Turks. he later was a soldier in the French army, and on coming to America in the latter part of the eighteenth century, settled in Baltimore, Md., where he was employed by the Government as n brass molder and burnisher, and was compelled to wait for his pay till the close of the war. He was later au officer, and commanded a company at the battle of Bladenburg, and as a reward for his brave conduct during that disastrous engagement, he was presented by his General with a fine rifle.
When coining to this county, in 1817, Andrew Meyer, Sr., as before stated, bought a large tract of land from the Government, which was located northwest of Canton. There he erected a house, in which his family resided until 1822, when he built the large brick residence which is now occupied by Ed J. Meyer, a popular and wealthy horse dealer in this county. 'The brick used in this structure was made oil a farm, and the wood for finishing wis hauled over the mountains from Baltimore, Md. The residence in those days was considered a great curiosity and people cache from mHes around to see it. e was very wealthy and contributed liberally of his means toward the upbuilding of his county, and his death, which occurred in 1848, was greatly mourned by hosts of friends.
The subject of this sketch was born in Baltimore, Md., in the year 1812, and came with his parents on their emigration to this county when a lad of five yeas. Later, returning to his native place, he entered the Emmitsburg College, near Baltimore, in which institution he took a classical course and was graduated. In 1832, he took an important step in life, whereby he gained the devoted assistance of a good wife in the person of Miss Elizabeth Haslet. She also was a native of Maryland, having been born in Baltimore in 1816, and at the time of her marriage had just completed her education and was in her sixteenth year. She came of n very prominent family, her father being Maj. Robert Haslet, a native of Cork, Ireland, who fought in the war between the Orangemen and United Ireland. Later, taking up his residence in the New World, he located in Baltimore, where he followed his trade of a gunsmith, and died at the advanced age of eighty-two years, his death being occasioned by an attack of yellow fever when traveling in the South.
After his marriage, Andrew Meyer, of this sketch, came with his wife to Ohio, where he engaged in the mercantile business, conducting a dry-goods store on North Market Street, in Canton, for five years. Later, abandoning city life, he moved upon what was known as Duck's Farm, which was located near Meyer's Lake, and which he continued to operate until the death of his father in 1848. Then, moving into Canton, in company with his brother Joseph, he was appointed executor of the large estate left by his father, the settling up of which occupied several years.
The wife of out, subject, who was a most intelligent and refined lady, departed this life in 1848, and at her death was mourned by a large circle of friends outside with her family. By her union with friends Mr. Meyer she became the mother of eight children, seven of whom grew to mature years, viz: Andrew J, Emma E. (now deceased), Joseph H., Louise C., William, Margaret and Mary I. After the death of his wife, our subject chose for his second companion Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Judge John Gross, of Baltimore, Md., her father being an able advocate and an officer in the War of 1812. To them was born one child, a son, John. The wife and mother died in 1879, having been preceded to the better land by her husband, whose death occurred in 1878.
Andrew Meyer was a gentleman of true nobility of character, always pleasant and considerate in his intercourse with others. he possessed cultured tastes, was a genuine lover of books, and among the attractions of his home was a fine li=
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.337
brary of well-selected and valuable reading. He was of a literary turn of mind and wielded the pen of a ready writer in giving utterance to his opinions. He was an historian of more than ordinary ability.
W. F. BREED. In the complexities of city life, the business of merchant tailoring may he regarded as one of the greatest importance in furnishing those evidences of refinement and taste that are represented in fashionable and well-fitting garments. As a merchant tailor, Mr. Breed has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence of workmanship, artistic skill and finish. He keeps on hand a large stock of broadcloths and woolens from the best markets, and all work done is guaranteed to suit.
Mr. Breed is a native-born resident of Massillon, his birth occurring on the 18th of July, 1856, and be is a son of Richard and Frances (Thert) Breed, natives respectively of Lynn, Mass, and Paris, France. Richard Breed wits born in the year 1814, and carne with his parents to Stark County, locating with them at Kendall. The trip was made with teens and wagons. Mr. Breed was one of seven children, four sons and three daughters. "is father was engaged in farming, and in addition also followed contracting oil the canal. His death occurred when about fifty-three years of age. The father of our subject engaged in the butchering business in Massillon, on West Main Street, and followed this successfully fur over thirty years. He died in 1881. His wife came with her parents to America when quite young, and with them located in New Lancaster, where she grew to womanhood. She is now seventy-five years of age and finds a comfortable home with our subject. Site holds membership in the Methodist Church. Of the six children born to this estimable couple, four daughters and two sons, two of the daughters arc deceased.
The original of this sketch, the youngest in order of birth of the above-mentioned family, se cured a good practical education in the High School of Massillon, and when eighteen years of age he was apprenticed to learn the tailor's trade in Alliance. Later, he took a situation in Osceola, Pa., where he remained nine months and then returned to Massillon, where he took up coat-making for Altman, Gross & Wetter, continuing with this firm for two years. After this, he was engaged in his trade at Alliance, Akron, and Three Rivers, Mich., and Washington, Pa., working at coat-making. In 1884, he started in business here and was engaged as cutter for five years In the fall of 1891, he started his present business, has a good trade, and his customers are among the best class of people in the city he employs from eight to ten hands and is located at No. 17 East Main Street. Socially, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Uniform Rank, and is also a member of the American Mechanics and the Adelphia Society here. In politics, be is a Republican.
EMANUEL HORNBERGER, Sr. All in whom brotherly kindness is found rejoice in knowing that men of declining years are able to rest from the toils of life and enjoy the comforts and pleasures to which years of industry have fairly entitled them. 1n Stark County, a goodly number of men are enabled thus to cease from the cares of life, and among this number is Mr. Hornberger, who is still living on his beautiful farm in Tuscarawas Township.
The gentleman whose name introduces this sketch is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born October 15, 1812, to John and Leah Hornberger, who were also natives of that State. he continued to reside in his native county until reaching his fifteenth year, when he moved to Lancaster Comity and there remained until reaching his majority. When ready to establish a home of his owls, he was married in Pennsylvania, in
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Our subject began the labors of life with but limited means, and his present excellent provision for his declining years is due to his good management and industry. During his earlier years he carried on general farming, his crops including all the grains that the climate and soil favored. He is justly regarded as a man of unimpeachable characler, and his fellow-citizens have much respect for him. As one of the old residents of the county, he has aided greatly in its improvement and growth in all that pertains to the best good of the people.
MICHAEL J. HOLTZ. Among those who are tilling the soil of Stark County in such a manner as to secure by their efforts a good livelihood, and make provision for declining years, is Michael J. Holtz, whose home is in Plain Township. For many years he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, and so successful has he been, that he now owns a valuable estate on sections 14 and 15. His residence is a comfortable and homelike structure, while conveniently arranged near it are the barns, granaries, etc., which belong to a well-regulated farm.
The original of this sketch, who comes of a very prominent family in the history of this county, was born on his present farm, January 23, 1826. His father, John Holtz, was born December 9, 1790, in Pennsylvania, while his grandfather, Michael Holtz, was a native of Germany, who on emigrating to America, just after the Revolutionary War, located in the Keystone State. In 1810, he visited this State, and was so well pleased with the outlook that the following year he removed hither with his family, the journey being made over the mountains with horses and wagons. Locating on the Harrisburgh Road, in this township, he there entered a tract of Government land, and in the woods erected the customary log cabin. Al-though Indians were plentiful, and wild animals numerous, they suffered no other harm from their visits than being badly frightened. The grand-father developed a good farm from the wilderness, and made his home on this section until his death at an advanced age.
The father of our subject was a young man of twenty-one years when his parents removed to this State. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and for six months did service about the lake near Sandusky. On returning home at the close of hostilities, he made a trip on horseback to his native State, and returning hither was married in 1814, to Miss Mary Werstler, who was born in Maryland, and was brought to this county by her parents as early as about 1806. After establishing a home of his own, John Holtz located on the beautiful farm where his son, our subject, is residing, at a time when its only improvement was a log cabin. The wolves in that early day proved very troublesome, as when the "men folk" were in the field at work, they would kill the sheep. Like other pioneers, he marketed his grain at Cleveland, conveying that article to the Forest City with a four-horse team, and on the return trip brought back salt, leather, etc., for which a high price was paid. He was in all respects a man of excellent character, whose obliging manner and honest, straightforward dealings gained him the regard of all about him, and his death, which occurred on Friday, August 13, 1875, was a severe blow, not only to his family, but to hosts of warm personal friends. He was a prominent member ' of the Lutheran Church, and aided in the construction of the first log church of that denomination in this locality.
The parents of Mrs. Holtz, the mother of our subject, were George and Mary Wrestler, who, on coming to this county in 1806, located in Plain Township, on a portion of the six hundred and forty acres of land which Grandfather Werstler had purchased from the Government. The latter gentleman was a very wealthy man and was fa
PAGE 339 - PICTURE - RESIDENT OF M. J. HOLTZ, SEC 14, PLAIN TP., STARK CO., OHIO
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PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 341
miliarly designated by the old settlers as "their ' bank," as he was always ready to lend money to those deserving the favor. He donated the land for the cemetery and church here, and endeavored In all ways to promote the good of his fellow-men by his good citizenship and his interest in that which was progressive. He was an active member of the Lutheran Church, and possessed that kind disposition and other attributes of character that made him beloved by all who knew him.
Our subject is one in a family of seven children, of whom six are living, his brothers and sisters being George, Susan, Mary, Elizabeth and Sarah. The mother of these children, who aided her husband greatly in attaining a good position among his fellow-men, died when in her sixty-ninth year. Our subject obtained an education in the log schoolhouse which has often been described in this hook, and when attaining mature years farmed on shares. The lady to whom he was married, September 7, 1851, was Miss Emily H. Folsom, who was born in Ashtabula, this State, October 23,1829. Her parents, David and Phoebe (Thornton) Folsom, were natives respectively of Vermont and Connecticut. The father came to Ohio when a young man, in 1808, and Miss Folsom following soon after, they were married in Ashtabula County, where they made their home until March, 1840. Then moving farther Westward, they located in Wayne County, where our subject operated an hotel until 1848, at which date he became identified with the interests of Stark County. For two years he re-sided in New Berlin, then lived for the same length of time in the city of Canton, after which he came to Plain Township. From there he went with his son to Corunna, Ind., where his death occurred.
The four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Holtz bear the respective names of Elects A., now Mrs. J. M. Spangler; Francis M.; Ermina, who is de-ceased, and Almina, widow of T. J. Pontius. Mr. and Mrs. Holtz have three grandchildren, Clarence T., Jennie M. and Francis J. Our subject, as before stated, operated the home farm on shares until the decease of his father, when he purchased the estate, which comprises one hundred has rented the greater portion of his farm, and is now extensively engaged in buying and selling stock, which branch of business he finds to be very remunerative.
Religiously, both Mr. and Mrs. Holtz belong to the Lutheran Church, and the sincerity of their religion is shown by their conduct in the everyday affairs of life. In politics, our subject gives his allegiance to the Democratic party.
DAM D. VOLKMOR. One of the salient features of the business men of Ohio is their energy and push, or, as the Ameri cans put it, "go-aheadativeness." Massillon is no exception in this respect, but affords a striking example of the truth of the assertion, and Mr. Volkmor furnishes us with a striking case in point. He was born in Massillon on the 3d of July, 1841, and comes of sturdy German stock, his parents, J. Adam and Mary Barbara Volkmor, being natives of the Kingdom of Hessen, Germany.
The elder Mr. Volkmor was a slater, roofer and stone-cutter in his native country, and was in the regular army there. Thinking to better his condition, he emigrated to America in 1832, and came direct to Massillon, Ohio, where he followed the stone-cutter's trade until his death in 1872. e was a member of the Catholic Church as was also his estimable wife. Her death occurred in 1843. Of the nine children born to them five are now living.
Adam D. Volkmor, the second in order of birth of these children, is a self-made man in every sense of the term, and all his accumulations are the result of industry and good management on his part. Deprived of nearly all educational advantages in youth, never attending school more than seven months all told, he has made his way by hard labor and by the honest sweat of his brow. To assist the family to make a living, he began at an early age to work on different farms, and when twenty, began learning the blacksmith's trade under W. C.
342 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Richards, with whom he remained four years, thus acquiring a thorough knowledge of the business.
In the spring of 1864, our subject enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio Infantry, and was mustered in at Columbus. He served until his discharge in September, 1864, as Corporal. Returning to Massillon, he resumed his trade and continued there until 1865, when he went to Wooster, Wayne County, Ohio, and was there employed as shoer in the shops, making this a specialty for one year. He then re-turned here and was in the employ of Bayliss & Co. in the agricultural works, until 1870, when he decided to embark in business for himself. He erected a shop and engaged in business as a shoer and general repairer until 1886, when he built a new shop and livery barn, 50x120 feet, the shop adjoining the barn. Later, he sold the stock in the barn and has since devoted his entire attention to shoeing. He runs three forges and superintends all of them, and is considered the best and most skillful horse-shoer in this section. He thoroughly understands his business, is active in the discharge of his duties, and is prompt and reliable.
The subject of our sketch was married in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1866, to Adaline J. Peirong, who was born near the city of Canton, Stark County, and who is a daughter of Amos Peirong, a native of France and a marble-cutter by trade. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Volkmor, four of whom grew to mature years, as follows: Clara, a graduate of the High School. Orlando C., also a graduate of the High School and of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, in the Class of '90, in the department of law. He is now located at Canton. Adaline J. is a thorough musician, and is teaching that accomplishment at the present time; and Elmer was graduated from the High School in the Class of '92, and was valedictorian. All are unusually bright children, and Mr. Volkmor has reason to be proud of them.
Our subject was a member of the City Council for two years from the Fourth Ward, and was on different committees. He is at present a member of the Board of Health and has been for eight years. Socially, he is a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, was the First Vice-president, and is a member of Hart Post No. 134, G. A. it., of which he is Junior Vice-commander. He is also a member of the Building Committee. Mr. Volkmor is one of the public-spirited and wide-awake citizens of the county. In religion, he is a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, and is one of its most active members. In politics, lie is a Republican.
JOSEPH OBERLIN. An honorable place among the farmers of Stark County is held by the above-named gentleman, whose loca tion is on section 15, Tuscarawas Township. His farm consists of one hundred acres of land, which are under the plow and all show signs of good management and intelligent improvement. Mr. Oberlin, who is a native of this county, is energetically prosecuting his affairs, deriving from his labors a good maintenance and making provision for his future needs.
Our subject, who was born July 5, 1826, is the son of Peter and Susannah (Creamer) Oberlin, who hailed from Cumberland County, Pa. The paternal ancestors of our subject were Germans. Peter Oberlin came with his family in 1813 to this county, and settled in the western portion of Tuscarawas Township, at a time when the now prosperous city of Massillon had no existence. Of the children included in the parental family, the following survive: Jacob, Samuel, William E., Joseph, David and Isaiah, the four latter of whom make their homes in this township. The father, who at his death left a comfortable property, de-parted this life in the '50s.
Young Oberlin of this sketch spent his youth amid primitive scenes, as his father belonged to the pioneer class, and he learned the value of industry, persistence and determination. He pursued his duties in the district school, and here, in an almost trackless forest, grew to man's estate, aiding in the development of it new farm and joining
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with the other settlers in the sports of the day. Later in life, he attended school in Massillon, and also followed the profession of a teacher for a number of years. In 1853, our subject went by way of the Isthmus to California, and for four years was engaged in the gold mines, being very successful in his operations. When ready to re-turn home, in 1857, he traveled by the same route, which landed him in the Golden State, and on again becoming identified with the interests of his native county, became a tiller of the soil.
The marriage of Joseph Oberlin and Miss Mary A., daughter of John Christman, was solemnized December 20, 1860, and by their marriage was born a family of five children, of whom the four living are: Arthur C.; Annie M., Mrs. B. C. Shilling; Inez R. and Mary L. As before stated, our subject owns one hundred acres of land, to the cultivation of which he is devoting himself with zeal and intelligence, winning therefrom the guerdon of good crops and proportionate moneyed receipts. He has always voted the Democratic ticket in politics, and, as a prominent member of the community, has served as Assessor of Tuscarawas Township, and on two different occasions, in 1863 and in 1891, was candidate for the Legislature. He is well known throughout the county, and has a pleasant circle of .acquaintances and many friends, both in the immediate vicinity of his home and in sections farther removed. As an influential member of the Reformed Church, he has held the positions of Deacon, Eider and Superintendent of the Sunday-school. His good wife, who was a most cultured and excellent lady, died in June, 1879.
LEVI R. LASH, an honored veteran of the late war, in which he did loyal service, has developed a good farm from a wild tract of land in Bethlehem Township, and is therefore worthy of a place among the pioneers of this section of country. Ile is is native of this county, having been born December 20, 1812, to Andrew and Elizabeth Lash, also early residents of that township, and the former of whom (lied in 1859. Our subject passed his early years amid the pioneer scenes of his native county, and as soon as he was large enough, felled the trees, grubbed stumps, and did other pioneer work in evolving a farm from the primitive forests of that region. He received u limited education in the schools of that day, and has always followed the life of an agriculturist. August 15, 1862, the war being in progress, he offered his services to aid in the defense of the Union, becoming a member of Company A, One Hundred and Seventh Ohio Infantry. He remained with that company for three months, and then joined Company D, Twelfth New York Cavalry, with which he served until his honorable discharge. He participated in numerous skirmishes, in all of which he displayed true soldierly valor, and won an excellent record. Later, he joined Sherman's command under Kilpatrick at Goldsboro, and with that General fought until Johnston's surrender. July 19, 1865, he was discharged, and, returning to this State, has here since made his home. He is now receiving a pension of *8 a month from the Government. After his experiences of life on the battlefield, Mr. Lash resumed the work he had abandoned when he went forth to help fight his country's battles. In the year 1872, he was married to Miss Clarissa, daughter of Henry and Sarah Mase, of whom a sketch will be found on another page in this volume. Their pleasant wedded life has been greatly blessed to them by the birth of a son, Henry L.
Our subject is the proprietor of seventy and one-half acres of good land, which is thoroughly cultivated, and yields excellent harvests. In social matters, he is a Grand Army man, belonging to the Ft. Laurens Post at Bolivar, which he is serving as Junior Vice-commander. In political relations, he is n Democrat, and a member of the Ma-sonic fraternity, and is closely identified with the prosperity of his township as one who generously endeavors to help forward all enterprises that will in any way promote its growth. He is a prominent member of the United Brethren Church, aid is respected for his useful and upright life.
344 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Mrs. Elizabeth Lash, the mother of our subject, was born January 18, 1815, in this county, and is the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Shell) Younkman. Her father, who was a native of Germany, emigrated to the united States when a boy, and made his home in Bethlehem Township, this county, where he was one of the well-to-do residents. Miss Younkman was married July 5, 1832, to the father of our subject, the latter of whom was born in Washington County, Pa., in 1809. He was a son of Isaac and Eva Lash, and came with his parents in an early day to this county, locating upon the farm where Grandma Lash now resides.
To Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lash was born a large family of eleven children, viz.: Catherine, Mrs. Charles Kleinfogle; Jacob; Mary, Mrs. Dr. John Parks; Levi; Theresa, Mrs. John Reigar; William, Callie, John, Andrew J., Daniel F. and David M. The father of our subject departed this life in April, 1859, greatly respected by all who knew him. He was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church, and in his political relations, voted the Democratic ticket. Grandma Lash has attained to an advanced age, and as one of the old pioneers of this county, her friends are numerous throughout its borders.
ARCHIBALD R. HANNA. A compendium ,64 of Stark County would be incomplete were no mention made of the Rotch School at Massillon, the most prominent educational institution of the county, with the progress of which Mr. Hanna has been closely identified as Superintendent. The object of the school is to provide mental, moral and industrial training for a limited number of homeless children, or those whose parents are poor and infirm, A vested fund of $30,000 placed at interest has supplied the means necessary to purchase the farm of one hundred and eighty-five acres, erect three buildings and support the school with the maxi-mum attendance of thirty pupils since April 1, 1844. The fund so productive was a free gift to humanity from Mrs. Charity Rotch, of Massillon.
The main building is a substantial brick structure, 45x50 feet, four stories high, and was erected in 1843. Eleven years afterward n frame addition was built, and in 1878 a substantial brick structure was erected, 18x42 feet, three stories high. In 1890, the Board of Trustees expended about $4,000 in repairs, and the buildings are now in excellent condition, well adapted to their various uses. The buildings are heated with steam, so that every room is comfortably warm even in the coldest weather, and hot and cold water are also provided on every floor.
The benefits of the school are not restricted to Stark County or to the State of Ohio, but anyone answering the requirements may make application. Children are admitted at the age of twelve years, and must be of good moral character, no one of doubtful morals being allowed to enter. Some of the men who are now prominent in the public affairs of the county received instruction in the Rotch School, where the heart is taught goodness, the head knowledge and the hand industry. The Board of Trustees comprises the following: Mrs. C. McC. Everhard, President; Prof. E. A. Jones, Secretary; Frank L. Baldwin, Treasurer; Sylvester Johnson and Charles Steese. A. It. Hanna, the efficient Superintendent of the school, is a native of Ohio, born in Wayne County, June 8, 1833. His parents, Rev. Archibald and Mary (Rummage) Hanna, were natives of Pennsylvania, the former being of Scotch descent and the latter of Irish ancestry. The father was a minister in the Presbyterian Church and a pioneer preacher of Ohio, where he had an extensive acquaintance. After serving as pastor of the churches at Mt. Eaton and Fredericksburgh for a number of years, he came to Stark County and located on a farm in Tuscarawas Township, although he still followed the ministry. When about eighty-six years old, he was called from earth.
The parental family consisted of twelve children, of whom the following survive: John, a resident of Emporia, Kan.; Joseph, a minister, now residing in Oregon; Alexander, of Vinton, Iowa; Maria, wife of Rev. D. R. Colmery, of Los An
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geles, Cal.; Archibald R., of this sketch; Isabella, wife of J. M. C. Wilson, whose home is in Kansas City, Mo., and Calvin, of Eugene City, Ore. The deceased are: William, Rev. Samuel, Elizabeth, Rev. James IV., and Newton, the last-named losing his life in the Civil War.
The late J. W. Hanna is worthy of more than passing notice. He was born in Mt. Eaton, Ohio, January 4, 1827, and was a graduate of Washing-ton and Jefferson College in the Class of '51. His theological training was received at the West-ern Seminary, of Allegheny City, Pa., from which he was graduated in 1854. On the same day which witnessed his graduation, May 11, he was married to Miss Joanna M. Smith. His first ministerial charge was at Fulton, Ohio, and the afterward accepted the pastorate of the church at La Porte, Ind.' Later, he was pastor of the church near Vinton, Iowa, and from 1873 to 1877 had a charge at Mt. Vernon, later officiating as pastor of the church at Grundy Center. He then moved to Kansas and spent the closing years of his life at Emporia. Ills death occurred March 16, 1892, and, at his request, his remains were laid beside those of three of his children in the Mt. Vernon, Iowa, cemetery.
Our subject was reared to manhood in Stark County, and has engaged in agricultural pursuits throughout his entire active life. He laid the foundation of his education in the common schools of the district, and added to his general fund of information by a systematic course of reading and study. January 13, 1857, he was married to Miss Mary .1. Cook, of Wayne County, Ohio, and the daughter of Asa C. Cook, formerly a prominent citizen of that county. Prior to her marriage, she was a teacher in the schools of Wayne and Stark Counties, and was very successful in that profession. Seven children were born of the union, namely: Charles, deceased; Mary, wife of S. A. McDowell, is resident of Burt County, Neb.; Hulda, at house; William, who resides in Nebraska; Frank, a teacher in the Retch School; Eva and Earl E., who are at hone.
For more than a half-century Mr. Hanna resided in Tuscarawas Township, where he served as Trustee, and in other positions of responsibility. For one year he was President of the Stark County Agricultural Society, and for two years served as President of the Stark County Horticultural Society. For twenty-one years, in Dalton, Ohio, he officiated as Ruling Elder in the Presbyterian Church, and is now serving as such in the church at Massillon. n polities, be is a Republican, and a stanch supporter of the principles of his party. The Rotch School farm, as above stated, comprises one hundred and eighty-live acres, over the management of which our subject has complete super-vision. He is thoroughly conversant with the de-tails of the work, and his indomitable energy al-most invariably brings success to his efforts.
WILLIAM NIESZ is an old resident of Stark County, with whose farming and stock-
raising interests he has been long connected. He was born in Canton Township, on the southwest quarter of section 30, May 28, 1822, and his interest in the welfare of this section and his public spirit are recognized and appreciated. He is the son of .John Niesz, who was born in ' Pennsylvania, in 1798, and who, in turn, was the son of George Niesz, also a native of that State. The that representatives of the family came to America from Germany in Colonial times.
Grandfather Niesz was a blacksmith by trade, and in 1807, on coming to this State, made the journey overland and located in Canton Township. Here he entered a tract of land from the Government, on which he built a log cabin in the woods, and there resided, engaged in its improvement and cultivation, until reaching his fiftieth year. His son, the father of our subject, was a lad of eight years when the journey was made to this State, and here he attended the old-fashioned log school-house, which was heated by a fire in n large, open fireplace and lighted by means of a hole in the wall, from which a log had been taken. All the schools were then conducted on the subscription plan and the teachers boarded around among the
346 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD
pupils. When attaining mature years, like his father, he was engaged as a farmer and was more than ordinarily successful in his operations, owning at the time of his death a quarter-section of valuable land. During the last twenty-five years of his life, he was engaged in preaching in the United Brethren Church, and traveled for many years throughout this section as a missionary. He did great good in this way and was instrumental in establishing a great many churches of that de-nomination throughout this part of the State. He died in 1872, when seventy-four years of ago. He was a Republican in politics, and no one knew him but to regard him with the highest esteem.
The father of our subject was married to Mary Young, who was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1798. n 1805, she was brought by her parents to this county and was given as good an education as could be obtained in the pioneer schools of this locality. By her union with Mr. Niesz were born the following children, of whom the two deceased were named, respectively, Elizabeth and Jacob. Those living are William, Mary, George, Barbara Ellen, John K., Sarah A., and Benjamin F. The wife and mother died when in her seventy-second year, a devoted member of the United Brethren Church.
He whose name heads this sketch has always lived in this township, and obtained a fair education in the pioneer schools here and proved of great assistance to his father in developing his farm. It has been his good fortune to witness the entire transformation of this section and to see thriving towns and fine farms spring up where in his boyhood was nothing but an uninhabited wilderness. Since attaining man hood, he has largely helped in the work that has wrought this great change, and has placed himself among the most prosperous men of his calling in the county.
When twenty-three years of age, our subject began in life for himself, and in 1844 was married to Miss Delilah Roush, who was born in Pennsylvania, and came to this State with her parents in 1830. To them has been granted a family of six children, namely: Mary A. (deceased), John F., Jacob N. (deceased), Urin, Artie and Delilah. The mother of these children died in 1852 and Mr. Niesz was married to his second wife in 1853. She
bore the name of Ann Eliza Neisz, and by their union were horn four children: Frank B., Henrietta, William S. and Sarah E. She was a devoted member of the United Brethren Church, and died in 1862.
In 1844, Mr. Niesz located on his present farm, the only improvements on which were a rude log cabin and fifty acres partially cleared. His present estate of one hundred and sixty acres has been acquired by thrifty habits and persistent industry. n addition to raising the cereals which are best adapted to the soil in his locality, he devotes some attention to the breeding of fine stock, keeping on his place twenty head of cattle, eight head of horses and numbers of sheep and hogs. His large frame residence, which was erected in 1878, is a model of its kind, and his commodious barn, which was built in 1854, is well adapted to the purposes for which it is used.
Our subject is one of the most useful members of the United Brethren Church, in which body he has served as Class-leader and is now Trustee. e has been a liberal contributor toward its support, and the reality of his religious profession is shown in his daily conduct toward all about him. In politics, he is identified with the Republican party, and during the late war was Captain of a militia in Cantor and Pike Townships. When he entered upon his career as a farmer, he had but a limited amount of this world's goods, but by economy and a judicious investment of his means, he accumulated property and now occupies a position among the most substantial men of the county.
MARTIN L. BEST, of Canton, claims Pennsylvania as the State of his nativity. He was born in Fayette County, on the 16th of September, 1825, and his father, Christian Best, was a native of the same locality. The latter was a leather finisher by trade and subsequently was engaged in the milling business. He was killed by falling from a bridge on a rock cause-
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 347
way, his death occurring the day succeeding the accident, February 12, 1839, in Carroll County, Ohio. He married Susanna Lutz, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Martin Lutz, of German descent. Her death occurred in 1850. The family numbered nine children, seven of whom grew to mature years, the other two having died in infancy.
Our subject is the eldest son. His parents re-moved to Carroll County, Ohio, when he was only three years old and he there spent his boyhood and attended the common schools. When his education was completed, he began learning the trade of a tinner and coppersmith, serving an apprentice-ship of five years and six months with Thomas H. Harbaugh, of Carlton, Ohio, He then traveled as a journeyman for two years, after which he re-turned to Carroll County, and was united in marriage with Elizabeth Clark, daughter of William Clark. Unto them have been born four children: William A., C. V.; Eva D., wife of George Alt-house, and J. G.
Our subject and his wife began their domestic life in Jefferson, Ohio, where he worked at his trade for five years. He then went to Steubenville and became manager of the works of Sharp Jr Craig, manufacturers in tin and copper and extensive dealers in stoves, serving in that position for eighteen months. He then returned to Carl-ton and embarked in business in that line on his own account. n 1855, he took charge of the tin and copper shop of D. H. Harman in Canton, continuing that connection until the spring of 1859, when he formed a partnership with Henry Russell and bought out the tin shop of R. Little Jr Horn. To his business he then devoted his energies until 1862, when he bought out the firm of Russell & Son and formed a partnership with John Luper. Six months later, Mr. Best sold his interest to his partner and established a jobbing shop, working principally for C. Aultman & Co. Subsequently, he began dealing in metal cornices and roofing and continued in that line of trade until 1881, when he invented what is known as the Sun Vapor Burners, securing two patents on the same. The Sun Vapor Street Light Company was then organized, L, L. & Jacob Miller being associated with
our subject as partners. In 1888, the business was incorporated with a capital stock of $175,000, Jacob Miller being elected President; Levi Miller, Treasurer, and Martin Best, Vice-president and General Manager. On the death of Jacob Miller in 1889, his stock was purchased by James McNath, and Robert A. Miller bought that of L. L. Miller, Mr. Best retaining his half-interest. The business was continued under this management for six months, when Mr. Best sold all of his shares, with one exception, to Robert A. Miller. Since that time, he has been a Director of the company and keeps a general oversight on the business.
Other interests have occupied the attention of our subject. He is now a stockholder in the Artificial Ice and Storage Company, of Canton, and in the Building and Loan Association. He started out in life at an early age without capital, and to his own efforts is due the success he has achieved in life. n polities, he is a supporter of Republican principles and keeps himself well informed on the issues of the day, but has never been an officeeseeker.
JONAS R. WALTER. None are more worthy of mention in a biographical record than the men who have began the battle of life at an early period, unarmed for the con-test but by their native wit, determined spirit and bodily vigor. One of this class is Jonas IL. Walter, who owns one of the best-regulated farms in Stark County. It consists of ninety acres in Tuscarawas Township, which are made remunerative by careful and intelligent cultivation, and have been supplied with all needful structures and many improvements, both useful and beautiful.
A native of Lancaster County, Pa., Mr. Walter was born November 8, 1812, to John and Catherine (Roup) Walter, natives, also, of the Keystone State, and of German descent. He accompanied his parents to Westmoreland County when quite young, and after a residence there for a short time
348 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
moved with them to Allegheny County, where he grew to man's estate. He attended school during the winter, working hard during the other seasons in order that he might obtain such an education as the public schools offered advantages for, and with the energy that has characterized him through life, pursued an undeviating course. When reaching his eighteenth year, he served an apprenticeship of three years to the baker's and confectioner's trade, which line of business he followed for some time.
In 1836, in company with his parents, young Walter came to this State, and fora few months made his home in Wayne County, after which he came with the family to Tuscarawas Township, this county, which has since been his home, and where the father and mother died. The parental family of eight children bore the respective names of Jonas, Abigail, Nicholas, David, Anna B., George, Elizabeth, and John R.
At the bride's home, October 15, 1840, our subject was married to Miss Susan Houck, who was born in Lebanon County, Pa., January 25, 1822. She was the daughter of Samuel and Catherine (Sprecher) Houck, natives of Pennsylvania. She was orphaned by the death of her father when eight years of age, and after that event, in company with her mother and other members of the family, came to Stark County and made her home in Tuscarawas Township, where she met and married our subject. Her mother, who was one of the pioneer settlers of this section, departed this life at a good old age in 1868.
To Mr. and Mrs. Walter have been born eight children, viz: Mary C., John L., William B., Lydia, Anna B., Margaret A., Clinton, and George. Our subject located upon his present farm in the spring of 1865, and since that time has continued to give his attention to farming, and has now one of the best and most productive tracts in this township. As before stated, his property includes ninety acres, upon which he has erected a convenient and at-tractive dwelling, which has been the seat of a happy home life.
He whose name introduces this sketch is selftmade in all that the term implies, and has endeavored to act the part of a good citizen, not only in his law-abiding conduct, but in hie sym pathy with, and aid in, the various movements promulgated for the public good. He and his good wife are devoted members of the Lutheran Church, and endeavor in their daily lives to carry out the precepts of the Golden Rule. In his political relations, Mr. Walter is a stanch Republican, and is greatly interested in the success of the party.
ISAAC HENNINGER. Of the men who are successfully prosecuting agricultural work in Stark County, it may well be said that their name is legion. One who is pleasantly located in Perry Township is he whose name introduces this sketch. He is a native of Dauphin County, Pa., his birth occurring March 10, 1821, he being the son of Sebastian and Barbara Henninger, natives, respectively, of the Keystone State and Germany.
Our subject grew to manhood in this State and county, his earliest recollections being of the cabin home built of logs, with puncheon floor and clap-board roof, and of a section of country which was not yet fully developed. Ile attended the pioneer schools, and determining to follow the occupation of an agriculturist, began work in that line when quite young. The lady to whom he was married in April, 1842, was Catherine Umholtz, also a native of Pennsylvania. She became the mother of seven children, of whom four survive, viz.: Sarah, the wife of Lewis Smith; Amanda, Mrs. William H. H. Martin; Susan, the wife of William Pitzcker; and Isaac. Henry died while a soldier in the Union army. The names of the two other members of the family were Barbara and Catherine.
The original of this sketch in 1865 took up his abode in this State, coming direct to this county, and locating in Perry Township. Ills estate comprises a quarter-section, which is well improved with the necessary machinery and stock and which is one of the first-class farms in all its appointments. Mr. Henninger is a law-abiding citizen, and one who in social life is friendly and obliging, while in his home the is considerate and shows that
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he appreciates the good qualities of his companion. He receives a merited degree of respect from those with whom the associates, and his reputation is in accord with his deserts.
In religious affairs, our subject is a member of the German Reformed Church, in which body he has occupied the positions of Deacon and Elder. Although his early advantages were not equal to those furnished the youth of this day and age, he is a man of intelligence, having read and thought to good purpose, and is held in high repute as one who is honorable in his relations in life and is deserving of commendation for the enterprise which he has displayed in his affairs.
ROBERT S. WARWICK.
The traveler in Stark County will find no farm home better deserving of notice than that of Mr. Warwick. It is located in Sugar Creek Township and comprises two hundred and twenty-five acres of land, thoroughly tilled and care- I fully managed, while the buildings upon it are unexcelled in the county. There is a handsome residence, besides which a large barn, stable, granary, and other structures fitted for various uses are also to he found here. The best stock is kept upon the place and everything is in keeping with the progressive ideas and the energetic nature of the owner. All this comfort and wealth have been won by Mr. Warwick at the expense of hard and continuous labor, close calculation and prudent expenditure. Hls early struggles, however, did not make him penurious or morose; on the contrary, he is a genial, benevolent man, open-handed and public-spirited.Our subject, who is a native of the North of Ireland, was born, December 25, 1833, to Robert and Mary (McConnell) Warwick, both natives of Ireland. Robert S. remained in his native country until reaching his seventeenth year, when, buying heard much of the fortunes to be gained in the New World, he set sail from Liverpool and after a voyage of twenty-one days, landed on American shores and later came to this county. lie had been given an excellent education in his native land, and on coming to the United States attended school for a time, and now keeps himself thoroughly in-formed upon events of interest.
The father of our subject was a prominent merchant in Ireland, and his uncle, the Rev. William Warwick, was Rector in the Established Episcopal Church in the North of Ireland. On making the voyage to this country, our subject was accompanied by his brother, the Hon. J. G. Warwick, of Massillon, who at the time of his demise, August 14, 1892, was representing the old McKinley District in Congress. For seven years after making his advent into this county, he of whom we write engaged in the dry-goods business in Massillon, in company with his brother just mentioned, in which branch of trade they were very prosperous. After abandoning the mercantile business, Mr. Warwick, in 1862, came in the fall of that year to Sugar Creek Town-ship and purchased the property upon which he has resided since that time. His estate is very valuable, and upon all matters pertaining to agriculture he keeps thoroughly posted, and his influence both as a farmer and citizen is great.
The wife of our subject, whom he married in 1861, was formerly Miss Delila Watson, a native of Wayne County, this State, and a daughter of James and Susannah Watson. The three children born of their union are: John, Janes W. and Samuel R. Mrs. Warwick, who was a most estimable lady, and held in high esteem in the community, departed this life in May, 1875. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while her husband is identified with the English Episcopal Church. He is a modest, unassuming mail, of considerable intelligence and of earnest nature, and as a strong advocate of schools, has been frequently solicited to hold office on the Board, but has refused to accept any public position. He is Democratic in his political belief, and his character and ways are such' as to will friends wherever he goes, and he is well spoken of on all sides.
A number of years ago, Mr. Warwick was a candidate from the State Senatorial District in which he resides, but was defeated by his opponent, Prof.
352 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Hartshorn. In Mr. Warwick we see a man who, solely by his own efforts, has made what he to-day possesses. Steadily he has worked his way upward to a position of wealth and affluence, and has laid by for himself a comfortable competence. His example might well be followed by young men who, like himself, have no capital with which to begin life, but by properly using the talents which Nature has given them they will succeed, if they conform to those principles which have characterized the life of Mr. Warwick—industry and enterprise.
REV. JOSIAH A. GRIMM, the most efficient and popular pastor of the Evangelical Church, on Stark Circuit, Pittsburgh, is a native of Stark County, Ohio, being born in Washington Township on the 12th of November, 1837. His parents, Andrew and Anna (Risley) Grimm, were natives of Stark County, Ohio, also. Andrew Grimm resided in Washington until his death, May 25, 1865, when fifty-five years of age, and was a very successful farmer of his section. His wife followed him to the grave on the 26th of June, 1874, when sixty-two years of age. The grandfather, Joseph Grimm, was a resident of Jefferson County, Ohio, and had two brothers who made permanent settlements in that county, their descendants residing there now. Joseph Grimm, however, moved to Stark County and there reared his family.
The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was the eldest of a family of nine children, seven of whom grew to mature years and six still living, as follows: Mrs. Catherine Huford resides in Mar-shall County, Ind., on a farm; George is a farmer of Van Wert County, Ohio; Mrs. Mary Scott re-sides on a farm in Lexington Township, Stark County, Ohio; and Mrs. Rachel Keller resides in Erie, Pa. Levi Grimm was also a minister in the Evangelical Church and labored in Indiana. He died in Stark County when twenty-two years of age, and is buried at Salem Cemetery, Washington Township, this county. He was a single man. Sarah A., wife of Rev. Frederick Ellenburgher, a minister of the Evangelical Association of the Pittsburgh Conference, resides in Du Bois, Clear-field County, Pa.
The early life of our subject was passed on a farm and in attending the district school, where he received a good practical education. Being possessed of a more than usually bright mind and a very retentive memory, he began teaching at the age of eighteen, and about that time he became identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church, ' although his father was a member of the United Brethren Church. His youthful days gave a fore-cast of what his life's work was likely to be, for after he began teaching, he would attend the Mt. Union College during the summer months. After remaining with the Methodist Episcopal Church for four years, he united with the Evangelical Association and received a license to exhort. He served in that capacity in Washington Township about three years, and in 1867 received his license to preach. He first took a position as assistant on Stark Circuit, where he is now located. He is a forcible and eloquent speaker and is evidently deeply interested in the noble work in which he is engaged.
On the 12th of April, 1866, he wedded Miss Mercy R. Scott, a sister of Jonathan Scott, who married our subject's sister Mary. Mrs. Grimm was born in Alliance, Ohio, November 13, 1844, to the union of Isaac and Mary (Cassidy) Scott. In 1868, Mr. Grimm took charge as assistant of Clear-field Circuit, in Clearfield County, Pa., and after laboring there one year, took charge at Somerset Circuit, Somerset County, Pa., for two years. After this, he went to Johnstown, Cambria County, Pa., as first missionary and was minister for three years. He was the organizer of the church in Kernville, in Johnstown proper, and while there, he was instrumental in collecting funds froth various places to build the church. After this, be served as Collector in what were then the districts of Pittsburgh, Alleghany and Somerset, and collected about $3,000 for that purpose during those
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three years. He preached regularly at the places, Johnstown, Conemaugh and South Fork, and occasionally at other places where churches were started. He organized the first church at the first three named places, also organized one at Ben's Creek, eight miles from Johnstown. Later, he was appointed Presiding Elder in Somerset District, and continued to reside in Johnstown. Afterward, he removed to Somerset, remained there eighteen months, but still had charge of the district as Presiding Elder. About this time, the name of the district was changed to that of Johnstown, but included the same territory. It remained thus one year, when it was changed to Johnstown and Alleghany District. Mr. Grimm was given charge of Alleghany District, and as there was a debt of $7,000, he was able to pay the most of this off. He thus served for six years as Presiding Elder, and then moved to Canton, Ohio, where he was Presiding Elder of Pittsburgh District for four years. He subsequently moved hack to Johns-town as Presiding Elder, but on account of the poor health of his wife he resigned and moved to Mahoning County, where he took charge of lighter work in order to give his wife more attention. Three years later, after serving in North Lima charge, he moved to East Liberty, Summit County, and continued there in charge of Summit Circuit for three years. In the spring of 1891, he came to his present home, where he preached his first sermon, and here he has resided since.
To his marriage were born five interesting children, as follows: Elmer Ellsworth, born October 20, 1867, in Washington Township, Stark County, Ohio, was graduated in the commercial course and penmanship, at Mt. Union, Ohio. He was married on the 6th of February, 1890, to Miss Sadie Cramer, of Myersville, Summit County, Ohio, and they have one child, Olive Jay, whose birth occur-red on the 24th of September, 1891. Royal, born at Somerset, Pa., on the 18th of May, 1870, is a natural artist. From early boyhood he displayed much genius in that line, and when in Mahoning County, Ohio, he took lessons in crayon work. He is now learning watch-making in Canton, Ohio. William A. died in infancy ; Edith was born in Johnstown, Ps., January 1, 1878; and Howard was born in Canton and died in Johns-town. Mr. Grimm has ever been a Republican and his first Presidential vote was cast for Abraham Lincoln in 1860. His father at one tine was a Whig, but later espoused the principles of the Republican party.
HENRY MASE is a well-known and influen tial citizen of Stark County and bears a prominent part in the. various affairs of Bethlehem Township, where he is at present residing. He is social, benevolent and energetic, and is well known as a man of good judgment and possessing that personal character which has won a high degree of respect from those with whom he has been associated.
A native of Pennsylvania, our subject was born in Lebanon County, November 4, 1821, to Michael and Christina (Spangler) Mase, who were also natives of that State and county and of German de-scent. The father of our subject early in the '30s emigrated with his wife and family of two children to this county, coming overland with teams, the journey consuming seventeen days. They first located in the northern portion of Sugar Creek Township, making their home in a rude log cabin, where the elder Mr. Mase purchased ninety--five acres of laud, thirty acres of which had been partially improved. There they continued to reside for four years, when they again took up the line of march, and came to Bethlehem Township. The father worked perseveringly to redeem his property from the wilderness and at his death, which occurred in 1859, had n good estate. His estimable wife, who survived him a number of years, died in 1888, having attained the advanced age of ninety years.
Of the parental family of four children, two are living. our subject and his brother Jonathan; those deceased are John and Samuel. The father of our subject was an influential member of the German Reformed Church, which body
354 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
he had served for many years as Elder. He was a tailor by trade and was at all times ready and willing to contribute toward the upbuilding of his adopted county. In his political relations, he voted with the Democratic party.
Henry Mase, at an early age, attended school and received all educational advantages possible in those days, when schoolhouses were rude and the information imparted in them was meagre indeed. Ohio at that time possessed none of the advanced ideas that at the present day make it a popular place for educational matters.. Our subject has always followed the life of an agriculturist, and his enviable position in the community is due to his own unaided efforts, as he was early compelled to commence the battle of life on his own account. Adversity developed the sterling qualities of his character, and while acquiring for himself a competency, he has at the same time assisted in the development of the resources of his township and county.
The marriage of Mr. Mase occurred January 13, 1848, at which time Miss Sarah A. Kern became his wife. She was born March 81, 1829, and is the daughter of John and Christina (Boughman) Kern, natives of Pennsylvania who emigrated to this county in the '20s and located in Sugar Creek Township, where they resided for many years. Later in life, they removed to Adams County, Ind., where the father (lied in March, 1875. The mother, who is still residing there, has attained the advanced age of eighty-six years. Mr. and Mrs. Kern were the parents of nine children, five of whom are living, namely: Mrs. Mime; Elmina, Mrs. Daniel Raling; Philip, Washington and Adam.
The three children comprised in the family of our subject and his wife are Elmina, Mrs. William Stamm; Amos B., Treasurer of Bethlehem Town-ship; and Christina, wife of Levi R. Lash. Our subject took up his abode on his present estate of one hundred and ninety-nine acres in the spring of 1859, and on the death of his father received his portion of the home farm. His place is well cultivated and bears all the improvements which are to be found on first-class estates.
Mr. Mase has been called upon to serve as s Director on the School Board, and while the incumbent of that position rendered much efficient service. He is a devoted member of the German Reformed Church, and as an active member of that denomination has served as its Elder. In his political views, he favors Democratic principles, and casts a straight ballot for his party. The son of our subject, Amos Mase, is a prominent and enter-prising young man and occupies the position of Treasurer of Bethlehem Township, to which office he was elected in the spring of 1891; he was born September 13, 1850, and married Miss Esther Baker, daughter of Henry and Catherine Baker, by whom he became the father of a son, Henry C. Following in the footsteps of his father, he is also a Democrat in politics and fora number of years has been an agent for agricultural implements.
JACOB WAGONER, foreman of the machine department of the Massillon Bridge Works and one of the finest machinists of the city, is a native of Perry Township, this county, born on the 18th of September, 1841, two miles east of Massillon. His father, Christian Wagoner was a native of the Keystone State, born near Shippensburgh in 1806, and the grandfather, John Wagoner, was also a native of that State, whore he followed the occupation of a farmer. About the year 1812, he brought his family to Ohio, and was one of the first settlers of Perry Township, Stark County. He entered land where the father of our subject now lives and tilled the soil until death claimed him.
Christian Wagoner was but six years of age when he came with his parents to Ohio, and nearly all his recollections are of his adopted State. He assisted his father in improving the wild land he had entered, and now resides on one hundred acres of this land.. n politics, he is a Democrat, and in religion is a member of the German Reformed Church. He assisted in building the first Re-formed Church in Massillon. His wife, formerly Miss Susan Oberlin, was it native of Greenville,
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Darke County, Ohio, and her father was a soldier of the War of 1812. She passed away in 1866. Six of the nine children born to this estimable couple are now living.
At an early age our subject became familiar with the duties of the farm, and when fourteen he began clerking for his brother-in-law, Marks Joseph, in Uniontown, where he remained one year. Ile then returned to the farm, and remained there until twenty-two years of age, after which he began working for Russell & Co. In the fall of 1863, he went to Wooster, and was employed in Barrett's machine shop, where he remained for eighteen months, after which he returned to Massillon. He was here employed in the Harmon Shriver. Coal Banks for six months, then with the Sablin Agri-cultural Implement Works, and was with other firms for eight or nine years. After this, he was in the Willow Bank Coal Mines, engaged in keeping the engine in repairs, and subsequently was with Snyder Bros. In 1875, he was employed by the Massillon Bridge Company, and first ran both an engine and a lathe. Later, he operated the latter alone, and in 1882 he became foreman of the machine shop. He is one of the oldest and one of the very best machinists in the city, and thoroughly understands Ida business.
Mr. Wagoner was first married in Brookfield, Ohio, in the year 1863, to Miss Mary Snyder, daughter of Fred H. Snyder (see sketch); and she died in Massillon, leaving four children, as follows: Cora, now Mrs. Austin, of this city; Anna; Charles, clerking for the Bee Hive in this city; and Ella, at home, a graduate of the High School. Mr. Wagoner's second marriage occurred on December 20, 1883, to Miss Florence Dangler, a native of Massillon, and the daughter of Isaac Dangler, who was a native of Reading, Pa. Her grandfather, Samuel Dangler, was hum in Relics County, Pa., and followed the pursuit of farming. He served in the War of 1812 for a number of years, and in 1821 came to Stark County, Ohio, where he entered and improved land. He married Miss Sarah Bowen, also a native of Beaks County, Pa., and of Scotch descent. Isaac Dangler was reared in Stark County, and has been engaged in the dry-goods business here for years. He is now employed as clerk for Humburger & Co. His wife's maiden name was Burr. Mr. Wagoner is a member of the Order of American Mechanics, and in polities, is a Republican. n his religious views, the is a Presbyterian, having been Trustee in that church for some time.
AARON P. GOULD. The original of this sketch was born in Aurora, Portage County, Ohio, August 24, 1855, and is the son of John W. and Eliza (Post) Gould, the former it native of Guilford, Vt., and the latter of Saybrook, Conn. The mother was a daughter of Aaron Post and came to Twinsburgh, Summit County, Ohio, in 1821, having traveled the entire distance from Connecticut with ox-teams, which journey consumed a period of six weeks. The father of Mr. Gould came to Ohio in 1837 and settled at Twinsburgh. He followed the occupation of a farmer until 1883, when he retired from active life and now resides at Kent, Ohio.
By this marriage were born two sons and two daughters, of whom our subject is third in order of birth. His youthful days were passed in his native county. Up to nineteen years of age, he divided his time between attending the public schools and working on a farm. At the age of nineteen, he went to Akron, Ohio, and for several years studied architecture under Jacob Snyder. Finding this occupation too sedentary, he returned home and worked his father's farm for a year. Then he entered the employ of Aultman, Miller & Co., of Akron, Ohio, and remained with them until the following year, when he accepted a position with C. Aultman & Co., of Canton, where he was employed for three seasons. e then carried on a contracting and building business, being associated with Levi Crum.
In 1883, Mr. Gould formed a co-partnership with II. It. Spencer and acquired a one-half interest in a surgical chair invention, organizing the Canton Surgical Chair Company. In March, 1887, this
356 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
was merged into the Canton Surgical and Dental Chair Company, Mr. Gould having charge of its mechanical department.
On the 22d of April, 1879, Mr. Gould was united in marriage to Miss Emma Walcutt, daughter of Elias and Frances (Zollars) Walcutt, and a native of Stark County. One son, Herbert A., blesses the union. Mr. and Mrs. Gould are members of the First Methodist Episcopal Church and have a very pleasant home at No. 45 North Walnut Street.
Mr. Gould comes of one of the oldest families in the United States, his ancestors, John Gould and wife, coming from Toweester, England, to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1635, and settling in Charleston, Mass. His great-grandfather, Thomas Gould, was born in Worcester, Mass., October 3, 1771, and at the age of two years, with his parents, removed to Guilford, Vt. He was a farmer by occupation. Mr. Gould's great-great-grandfather, Stephen, was horn at Sutton, Mass., September 18, 1748, and was a manufacturer of potash. He be-longed to the Revolutionary army and was in the battles of Lexington and Concord, being the son of Thomas Gould, Jr., who was born at Reading, Mass., in 1723, and who lost his life in 1755, in the eastern expedition against the French in Nova Scotia. Thomas Gould, Jr., was a great-great-grandson of the first ancestor of the family in America, the original of this sketch being of the ninth generation in the United States. On the maternal side, our subject's ancestor, Stephen Post, came to this country from England in 1633 and was one of the original founders of Hartford, Conn.
Aaron P. Gould, the subject of this sketch, has not been idle in supplying the demands for mechanical devices and helps to the surgical and dental professions, and in this connection a sketch of the growth and development of the Canton Surgical and Dental Chair Company, of which Mr. Gould is the most efficient and worthy President, is here in order.
This company had its inception in a very humble way, in the fall of 1883, when Mr. Gould bought a one-half interest in a surgical chair invention and organized the Canton Surgical Chair Company. Immediately he set about to change and improve this invention, and the result was an entirely new chair from the invention purchased and which became known to the profession as the Canton Surgical Chair.
The introduction of this chair to the profession was received by them with such favor that the company was encouraged to proceed with its experimenting, and after years of trials and triumphs on the part of Mr. Gould, they were enabled to offer to the profession that beautiful and faultless piece of mechanism, the Yale Surgical Chair of to-day.
In 1887, Mr. Gould succeeded in organizing a stock company known as the Canton Surgical and Dental Chair Company, with several thousand dollars' capital stock, which enabled him to more extensively put his chairs and other inventions into general use, and this marked an epoch in the rise and progress of one of Canton's most substantial industries. The Yale Chair, by its superior merit, wAs soon recognized by the medical profession as embodying all that is perfect in the surgeon's chair.
Another chair upon which this company has gained a world-wide reputation is the Improved Gould Dental Chair, which was invented by Mr. Gould and is the most popular dental chair in the world to-day, being used in every civilized country of the globe. The largely increasing sales of these two chairs each year show that the efforts of this company have not been in vain.
January 30, 1892, their entire factory on East Seventh Street was destroyed by fire. They immediately set about to find a place in which to temporarily manufacture their goods. They were so successful that in fifteen days after the fire they were filling orders for all goods. Immediate steps were taken to rebuild, land was purchased, and a much larger and more convenient plant was erected.
The new offices and works are located at the corner of East Eighth and South Walnut Streets, where over fifty men find steady employment. The building is four stories with basement and attic; it has thirty-five feet frontage on Walnut Street and two hundred feet on Eighth Street, and is equipped with the most modern tools and machinery for their various manufactures.
This company has added to its line of chairs
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fountain dental spittoons, dental engines, and other surgical and dental supplies, the inventions, in whole or in part, of Mr. Gould.
The rapid growth and substantial development of the Canton Surgical and Dental Chair Company reflects the highest credit on the ability and indomitable enterprise of its officers. From a small beginning, they are now one of the leading surgical and dental chair manufacturers in the country.
The following officers were elected in May, 1887, and still hold office: Aaron P. Gould, President and Superintendent; E. W. Gould, Vice-president; Albert Hoeffer, Secretary; John C. Skelton, Treasurer; and John Karrer, Assistant Superintendent.
HON. E. N. JOHNSON, who is now living retired in Alliance, was horn in Mt. Union, Stark County, Ohio, May 22, 1826, and is a son of E. N. and Dorcas (Moffatt) Johnson, the former A native of Fayette County. Pa., and the latter of Washington County, Pa. They are of English and Irish descent, respectively. The ancestors on both sides were farmers and be- came wealthy people. The maternal grandfather was born on the Emerald Isle, and died in Washington County, Pa., after amassing quite a fortune.
The father of our subject was reared in Washington County upon a farm, and in 1818 came to Stark County, Ohio. The following year, he re- moved his family to the new home, the journey being made in the old-fashioned moving wagon. Mr. Johnson became one of the pioneers of Washington Township, and in the midst of the forest built a rough log cabin, in which he made his home for a number of years, or until he could afford a better residence. This farm had been entered by his father, Caleb ,Johnson, in 1806, and was transferred to the son in 1820. These two deeds, among the oldest in the county, are the only two ever drawn for this farm, and they are still in the possession of the family. E. N. John- son, Sr., served as Justice of the Peace in Stark County for over a quarter of a century, and was also appointed and served as Surveyor in an early day. In politics, he was a Whig. He was a very influential and prominent citizen. His death occurred in September, 1889, at the very advanced age of one hundred years, five months and twenty days.
Our subject is the fourth in order of birth in a family of eleven children, ten of whom are now living. He was reared upon a farm, and attended the public schools until eighteen years of age, when he entered Marlborough College. He was afterward a student in Mt. Union College, and was subsequently employed as a teacher in that institute for several years. He then went East, and established what is now known as the South-western Normal College, a State institution, which is located in Washington County, Pa., on the farm of his grandfather. This was in 1853, and he was its Principal for eight years. On account of failing health, Mr. Johnson then returned to Ohio, and entered the Law School of Cleveland, from which he was graduated. It was his full intention to practice that profession, but on returning home he was prevailed upon to accept a position in the Alliance school, where he and his wife taught for one year.
Mr. Johnson was married in 1853 to Miss Jane Scott, a native of Scotland, and a well-educated and cultivated lady. She is a teacher by profession, and was associated with Mr. Johnson in all his school life. They have one son, James W., who has been in the Government employ for several years. He is a graduate of the National University Law School, his diploma being conferred upon him by President Arthur in 1884. He is now in the Interior Department, taking census.
On leaving the Alliance school, Mr. Johnson was nominated and elected to the State Legislature, and so well did he discharge the duties of that office that he was re-elected, and served for two terms, or four years. He then removed to his farm, and lived practically retired for some time. Subsequently, he was appointed by Secretary Sherman to fill a position in the United States Treasury Office, and while in Washington filled various Government positions. He was in the War De
358 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
partment for two and a half years, and was made Special Examiner in the United States Pension Office, filling that position for more than four years. Since that time, Mr. Johnson has lived practically retired. I-Ie has acquired a comfortable competency, which enables him to lay aside all business cares, and rest is the enjoyment of the fruits of his former labor.
Socially, Mr. Johnson is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and his wife be-longs to the Presbyterian Church. He is alike true to every public and private trust, and when filling public offices he discharges his duties with promptness and fidelity, to the credit of himself and the satisfaction of his constituents. He is a highly respected citizen of this community.
LOUIS A. KOONS. The mercantile establishment par excellence of the city of Masaillon is the spacious and handsome emporium belonging to Louis A. Koons, located very eligibly at No. 9 Main Street. It is in all respects a leading and well-appointed establishment, where is always displayed an unusually fine and very complete assortment of everything in the lines indicated, every department being replete with the latest novelties. The prices quoted, too, are rock-bottom figures, yet no inferior goods are allowed to be placed in stock, patrons being assured of receiving honest value and satisfactory treatment in this deservedly popular store. He has been established in his present place of business since 1888, and does a jobbing, wholesale and retail trade. Four floors are now occupied, each 17x125 feet, and for the successful handling of his goods and for the accommodation of his patrons he has an elevator. Two rooms are devoted to the retail trade. "The Bazar" is the largest house of the kind in the county, and one of the very largest in the State.
Mr. Koons was Born in this county, March 27, 1858, to Jacob and Catherine (Ruckenbroad) Koons, the former of whom was born in Germany and there passed the life of a fanner until his removal to America at the age of eighteen years. He located in Massillon, and began working in the old machine shop of Hart & Brown, continuing until his death, in 1868, at the age of forty-eight years. He was an expert machinist, and possessed many worthy traits of character, but was of a quiet, retiring disposition. He was an earnest member of St. John's Evangelical Church, which he helped to build up. His wife was born near Columbiana, Ohio, and was a daughter of Rev. Michael Ruckenbroad, a native of Wurlemberg, Germany. When a young man he came to America, and followed his trade of shoemaker in Pennsylvania, after ward settling in Columbiana County, Ohio, when it was a wilderness, entering and improving a farm there. n addition to this, he worked at his trade, raised flax and spun and wove his own cloth. He was a Deacon of the Dunkard Church and organized a society of that denomination in Columbiana County, preaching in an old log schoolhouse that was located on his land. He died in Massillon at the age of eighty-four years. The paternal grandfather lived and died in Germany. The mother of Louis A. Koons resides in Massillon, and is a member of the Christian Church. Her son has in his possession an old Bible that was printed in Germany in 1629.
Louis A. Koons was one of four sons and four daughters born to his parents, six of whom lived to maturity and five are now living. He attended the common and grammar schools of Massillon until the death of his father, then, at the early age of eight years, he was compelled to begin life's battle for himself. At the age of twelve years, he entered the employ of Kelley & Pepper, brickmen, remaining with them two seasons, attending school during the winter months. Although the labor was quite hard for one of his years, he showed much pluck and perseverance and kept at his work, receiving fifty cents a day for his services. When fourteen, he began clerking in a grocery store, but two years later became an apprentice of the Russell Company as machinist, and in two years' time had thoroughly learned the trade. He soon
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.- 359
entered the employ of H. A. Kitzmiller, a grocer ' and dealer in queensware, and during the three years that the remained in his employ he obtained a thorough insight into how business affairs were conducted, and decided to continue in that line of work. After being in the employ of Powell & James for six years, he began business for himself in the spring of 1882, dealing in stoves, hardware, house-furnishing goods, etc.
Although he began at the bottom of the ladder it was not two years before he had the largest business of the kind in the city. He was then in partnership with L. P. Yost and W. F. Koons, but inter sold out to them, and purchased the Five and Ten Cent store at Massillon, which was a very small establishment, and in its conduct was associated with Mr. Heininger, the firm being known as Heininger & Koons. They did business in a room 17x60 feet until January, 1885, at which time they started a branch store at Canal Dover, which Mr. Heininger took as his share of the business. Mr. Koons gradually increased his stock until it has assumed its present magnificent proportions. In 1891, he was an' incorporator of the Union Cigar Company and was made its general manager and superintendent. This factory is at No. I East Main Street, and has n very extensive business, keeping two men busily employed on the road. Mr. Koons was the first man to prolose the Massillon Building it Loan Association and was one of its chief organizers and is now a leading Di-rector. It was established March 22, 1888, and for some time Mr. Koons was its Secretary, but the was compelled to resign the position on account of the big business he was doing. He was married in Canal Fulton in December, 1880, to Miss Caroline Morgan, who was born in Dowlais, Wales, a daughter of Thomas Morgan, who came to Canal Fulton and kept an hotel there. To Mr. and Mrs. Koons two children have been born: Louis A., Jr., and Thomas A.
Mr. Koons has served in numerous minor official positions, such as Township Clerk, etc., and in 1891 was Clerk of Massillon, but resigned this position to look after his business affairs. He has been a prominent candidate several times f or Mayor but has withdrawn in favor of his friends. e is a true-blue Republican, and on several occasions has been a delegate to county and State conventions. He has been Chairman of the city Republican Central Committee, was a member of the County Central Committee, and is President of the McKinley Club. Socially, he belongs to the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, the Sexanual League, is a Counselor of the Chosen Friends, it member of the Protective Home Circle, a charter member of the Junior Order of Mechanics, and last, but not least, is Trustee, Treasurer, and an earnest member of the Christian Church. He is a wide-awake man of business, and is an active competitor for legitimate trade in his line, and is regarded as representing one of the rising business houses of the State.
ALLEN RUSSELL, of the firm of Russell & Co., at Massillon, was born in Sutton, Caledonia County, Vt., May 7, 1833. He is the son of Cyrus and Louisa (Stratton) Russell, of whom further mention is made in the sketch of Joseph K. Russell, presented elsewhere in this volume. From his childhood days, it was apparent that this son, the youngest of eleven children in the parental family, possessed the same sturdy enterprise and progressive spirit which characterized his older brothers.
The boyhood of Mr. Russell was varied by few incidents of special importance, and he was employed in the usual manner of farmer lads in quiet country hones. As soon as he was large enough to reach the plow, he commenced to aid in tilling the soil, and his life thereafter was a busy one, with few of the pleasures which the boys of the present generation enjoy, and few of the advantages now within the reach of the poorest child. His father going to Connecticut in 1862, he assumed entire charge of the farm, of which the had for many years before had the supervision. He purchased the old homestead, adding to its acreage
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until it consisted of one hundred and fifty acres, and was conceded to be one of the most progressive young agriculturists of the State. The first mower ever used in Caledonia County was shipped there in 1861 from Massillon, and was one of the first manufactured by Russell Bros., at that place. It was purchased by our subject and was regarded with great interest and curiosity by his neighbors. n addition to general farming, he was engaged extensively in dealing in stock, in which he met with success.
In the spring of 1865, Mr. Russell sold the farm and came West to Massillon, where he entered the employ of his brothers, and was engaged in over-seeing the shipment of repairs. In 1870, he be-came a member of the firm of Russell & Company. to which he still belongs. Three years after be-coming a partner, he removed to Indianapolis and there took charge of the branch house of Russell Company. His home in that city was on Delaware Street, opposite the residence of Benjamin Harrison, afterward President of the United States, with whom Mr. Russell enjoyed a personal acquaintance. Adjoining his residence was the home of Attorney-General Miller, one of the most prominent statesmen of the century.
Having charge of the business of the firm in illnois and Indiana, Mr. Russell traveled extensively through these States until 1878, when the branch house in Indianapolis was incorporated by a stock company, and he became a Director and stockholder. He then went on the road, adjusting claims and looking after the interests of the firm as well as branch houses in other places. During that time, he traveled extensively over the United States, especially in the West, and became well known as the representative of the company.
In 1889, Mr. Russell removed to Chicago, where he owns and resides in an elegant residence at No. 1837 Michigan Avenue. He was first married in Sutton, Vt., in 1854, to Miss Lorinda Chase, who was born in Campton, N. H., the daughter of Silas Chase, a blacksmith of that place. After her death, Mr. Russell was a second time married in Sutton, Vt., his wife being Miss Olive C. Cook, and the ceremony which united them was per-formed in 1858. Mrs. Russell was born in Camp- ton, N. IL, where her father, Jacob Cook, was a millwright. Two children have blessed the union: Harley A., who resides in Indianapolis and has charge of the branch house of Russell & Company; .and Carrie, who married S. M. Burdette, Assistant Editor of the Chicago Herald. In her religious preference, Mrs. Russell is a Presbyterian, and holds membership in a church of that denomination in Chicago.
Inventive by nature, Mr. Russell has secured letters patent on several contrivances of value to manufacturers, the most important of which is the automatic straw-stacker. Possessing an inquiring mind, he is ever on the alert to discover new methods of work, or improve upon the established order of things. The great success which has re-warded his efforts proves the possession of excel-lent judgment and unusual business talent, for, when he started out for himself, he had no monied capital, but was dependent upon his unaided exertions. His fortune has been acquired by his own industry, integrity and energy, and he is trying to bear his part of that responsibility which falls in great or small degree to every American citizen. His political opinions and thorough belief in Protection bring him into hearty sympathy with the. Republican party, of which he is a stanch supporter. His public spirit has been shown on more than one occasion, and in more than one direction, and he has the highest respect of the business men of Chicago and other cities.
R. JESSE P. PENBERTHY. This successful physician, whose name appears at the head of this sketch, impresses even those who meet him in only a casual way as a man who has drifted easily and naturally into the medical profession, who realizes the has made no mistake in the choice of his vocation, and who feels thoroughly at home in the position which he occupies. This firm impression deepens with a
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more intimate acquaintance, and familiarity with have history of his life leads to the unbiased and Impartial view, that the splendid success which he has achieved is the logical sequence of talent rightly used, together with energy and industry never misapplied.
The Doctor was born in West Brookfield on the 11th of August, 1868, and is n lineal descendant of British ancestors, his father, John P. Penberthy, having been born in Cornwall, England. When about fifteen years of age, the elder Mr. Penberthy came to America with his mother, and located in Martin's Ferry, Pa., where he grew to mature years, and received his education. He was also married there, but subsequently moved to West Brookfield, Ohio, where he was engaged in mining. n 1869, he located in Massillon, Ohio. Previous to this, however, in 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry, and served as a private until the cessation of hostilities. ln 1875, Mr. Penberthy went to Virginia City, Nev., and was engaged in the lead and silver mines, and was accidentally killed by the breaking of a car cable. He was buried there. He was an influential man and a miner who thoroughly understood his business. in his religious preferment, he was a Methodist. His wife. formerly Maury Evans, was born in Wales, and the daughter of Isaac Evans, who brought the family to America at an early date. He was a coal mines, and located in Martin's Ferry, where he was engaged in opening mines. From there, he moved to Salemville, Ohio, and there passed the remainder of his days. Mrs. Penberthy now resides at No. 242 East Main Street, Massillon, and is now Mrs. John Clay.
Five children were born to Mr. and Mr's. Penberthy, three daughters and two sons, all of whom are living, Dr. Jesse P. Penberthy, the third in order of birth of these children, passed his boy-hood and youth in Massillon, and graduated from the high School in 1885. After this, he entered Hudson's Academy, and completed the course in one year. From an early age, he had manifested a strong desire for the study of medicine, and in 1887 he entered the Western Reserve Medical College, where he remained until graduating with the degree of M. D. in 1890. On the 1st of April of the same year, he located in Massillon, and immediately began practicing his profession at the corner of Main and Mill Streets. e has already built up a very lucrative practice, and is meeting with much success in his chosen calling. n politics, he adheres strictly to the principles of the Republican party.
CHARLES F. SNYDER, superintment of the moulding department of the Hess, Snyder & Co.'s foundry, is a skilled work-man, and is one of the thorough, pushing men of Massillon. He was born in this city, on the 2d of December, 1850, and is a son of Frederick Snyder. (See sketch of George M. Snyder for parental history elsewhere in this volume. He was reared and educated in this city and when ten years of age he began working out in the bar-vest fields daring vacation, continuing this until fourteen years of age. Afterward he was employed in the coal mines, hauling out coal with a mule for three years, then was with J. F. Hess & Bro., with whom he remained twenty months. He wins subsequently in a blacksmith shop at Coal Mine, Willow Bank Coal Mine, and continued there as a helper for six months. After this, he took charge of a forge of his own, and was thus engaged for three or four years.
When the rolling mills were built in the spring of 1873, the became blacksmith in them, and in 1874 he started for himself with his three brothers under the firm title of F. H. Snyder & Bros., the individual members being F. H., J. F. and C. F. Snyder. They erected their shops on Mill Street, and were engaged in general repair work for some time, thus getting a good start. In 1882, they embarked in business with Hess Bros., under the firm name of Hess, Snyder & Co., and our subject has taken charge of the foundry ever since. They have added to every department, i I and have one of the flourishing establishments of
362 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
the city. He is also Superintendent of the moulding and pattern department, and is thoroughly familiar with every detail of his business.
Mr. Snyder resides at No. 361 East Main Street, and is very pleasantly located. His fine house was erected at a cost of $12,000 in 1886, and no neater or more attractive place can be found. The lot is 100x250 feet, and everything about the place indicates the owner to be a man of enterprise and push. He also owns the old home and other real estate. He was married at Albion, Mich., in 1876, to Miss Louisa Snyder, a native of the Buckeye State, born in Massillon, Stark County, and the daughter of Christian Snyder, who removed from Massillon to Albion, Mich., about 1860. He followed agricultural pursuits in that State until his death. One child has been born to this union, Floyd C. Mr. and Mr's. Snyder are regular attendants at the Presbyterian Church, and are liberal contributors to all worthy movements. In politics, he is a true-blue Republican.
JOHN MASE was a pioneer of this county, and for many years was very active in developing its agricultural resources. He was one of the leading farmers and stock-growers of Bethlehem Township, and his death, March 5, 1889, was a loss to the community of which he had been so long a valued member. He was born October 3, 1827, in Lebanon County, Pa., and was the son of Michael and Christina (Spangler) Mase, who were also natives of that State.
The original of this sketch was a small boy when he made the removal to this county in company with his parents. The family immediately located in Bethlehem Township, where the father redeemed a good estate from the wilderness, and where he made his home until his decease. John, of this sketch, was reared to manhood in this county, and obtained the best education which could be gained in the primitive schools of this locality. Ile has experienced many of the hardships of opening up a new country, and assisted his father in placing his property in good shape, erecting thereon substantial farm buildings, making neat fences, and doing all that is good to make it a model farm.
February 19, 1850, when ready to establish a home of his own, Mr. Mace was united in marriage with Elizabeth Knagy. The lady was born November 3, 1830, and is the (laughter of Abraham and Susannah Knagy, early settlers of Tuscarawas County, where the birth of Mrs. Mase occurred. Her parents were brought by their respective families to the above-named county when they were young, and thus ranked among the pioneers of this State. Her father, who was twice married, had a family of fourteen children, of whom the following survive: Margaret, the wife of David Eberly, of Noble County, hid.; George, who makes his home in Tuscarawas County, this State; John, who resides in Kansas; Jeremiah, who is living in Elkhart County, Ind.; Mathias, who resides in Missouri; Mary, now Mrs. John Garber, is located in DeKalb County, Ind., and Benjamin makes his home in Michigan. The parents of Mrs. Muse were devoted members of the United Brethren Church, and her father departed this life while residing in Whitley County, Ind., during the war. His wife, who is still living, makes her home in Whitley County, and is ninety years of age.
Mrs. Mase was reared in her native county, where she remained until reaching her seventeenth year, at which time she was thrown upon her own resources. She obtained a practical education in the early schools near her home, and after her marriage assisted her husband greatly in obtaining a high place in the agricultural community. As before stated, our subject departed this life in 1889, and his death was keenly felt by all who knew him. He was a man of deeds, not of words, and such was his integrity, that his promise was as good as a bond. His widow is justly proud of his reputation, and she too occupies a high place in the esteem of her neighbors.
Mr. Mase was for many years a prominent member of the German Reformed Church, in which body he was made Deacon, and Inter occupied theFebruary 19, 1850, when ready to establish a home of his own, Mr. Mace was united in marriage with Elizabeth Knagy. The lady was born November 3, 1830, and is the (laughter of Abraham and Susannah Knagy, early settlers of Tuscarawas County, where the birth of Mrs. Mase occurred. Her parents were brought by their respective families to the above-named county when they were young, and thus ranked among the pioneers of this State. Her father, who was twice married, had a family of fourteen children, of whom the following survive: Margaret, the wife of David Eberly, of Noble County, hid.; George, who makes his home in Tuscarawas County, this State; John, who resides in Kansas; Jeremiah, who is living in Elkhart County, Ind.; Mathias, who resides in Missouri; Mary, now Mrs. John Garber, is located in DeKalb County, Ind., and Benjamin makes his home in Michigan. The parents of Mrs. Muse were devoted members of the United Brethren Church, and her father departed this life while residing in Whitley County, Ind., during the war. His wife, who is still living, makes her home in Whitley County, and is ninety years of age.
Mrs. Mase was reared in her native county, where she remained until reaching her seventeenth year, at which time she was thrown upon her own resources. She obtained a practical education in the early schools near her home, and after her marriage assisted her husband greatly in obtaining a high place in the agricultural community. As before stated, our subject departed this life in 1889, and his death was keenly felt by all who knew him. He was a man of deeds, not of words, and such was his integrity, that his promise was as good as a bond. His widow is justly proud of his reputation, and she too occupies a high place in the esteem of her neighbors.
Mr. Mase was for many years a prominent member of the German Reformed Church, in which body he was made Deacon, and Inter occupied the
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 363
responsible position of Elder. He was a friend to the poor, and took great delight in the exercise of hospitality, and few there were who spent any time in their vicinage without enjoying the good cheer for body and mind that abounded under his roof. At his death he left an estate of one hundred and fifty-seven acres which he had redeemed from the wilderness and placed under good tillage. Mrs. Mase is a member of the German Reformed Church, in which body she is an active and valued worker.
HENRY STONER a representative and prominent farmer of Tusearawas Township, was born in Stark County, April 2, 1829, and has therefore been identified with its progress from an early period in its history. His parents, Jacob and Margaret (Rodocker) Stoner, were worthy people, Pennsylvanians by birth, and members of the farming class, whose efforts have resulted in the development of the vast agricultural resources of the community. The father, when a young man, pane to Stark County, in 1818, an d settled in the woods of Tuscarawas Township, of which he was a pioneer.
The house in which our subject was born, and which was erected by his father, was a structure made of hewed logs, and was about 18x20 feet in dimensions. In that little home there were nine children born: Henry, Josiah, Jacob, Samuel, Levi, Jeremiah, Fianna (wife of Samuel Lonna), Lovina, and .John, the two last named being now de-ceased. The father was a hard-working, persevering man and was enabled to accumulate a comfortable property as the result of his indefatigable efforts. lie died June 26, 1888, at the age of eighty-seven years, having been born in 1801. Politically he was a Democrat, stanch in his support of party men and measures. The boyhood days of euu,y Stoner were passed in a comlaratively uneventful manner, and at an early age he was obliged to assist in the nminten- ance of the family, aiding his father in clearing the land of its forest growth and tilling the soil. During the winter months he attended the school near his father's house, where he laid the foundation of an excellent education, which was mainly self-acquired. November 3. 1853, Ire was married to Miss Charlotte, daughter of Jacob and Leah Culler, early settlers of Tuscarawas Township, where she was born. They became the parents of nine children, five living, of whom the following may be noted: Loren resides in Stark County; Ida is the wife of Frederick Weisgarber; Valentine makes his home in this county; Ada married Jacob Weisgarber; and Sheridan is at home. The farm which Mr. Stoner owns, and which be acquired through his unaided exertions, comprises ninety-seven acres of fine improved land and is one of the best estates in the county. His attention is mainly devoted to its cultivation, but he finds sufficent time to keep posted regarding events of public moment and is well informed concrning the issues of the day. In political matters, be is a Democrat; religiously, he is a faithful member of the Lutheran Church and a sincere Christian, ever ready to advance the cause of religion as opportunity is presented.
WILLIAM H. BUCKIUS. The high standard of excellence which marks the popularity of any business house is maintained by W. H. Buckius, dealer in furnaces, mantels, grates, spouting, roofing, plumbing and gas-fitting apparatus, at Canton. Mr. Buckius, who is the subject of this sketch, was born in Canton, Ohio, November 7, 1844. His father, enry Buckins, was born in New Market, Va., and was only one year old when he was brought by his parents to Canton.
Grandfather John lluckius was one of the pie-: veers of Stark County and was also the pioneer tin-ware merchant in Canton, where he was engaged in business until his death. His sou Henry suceecded
364 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
him in the business, married a young lady of Stark County, and carried on extensive business operations for many years. During the early years of the settlement of Ohio, he and his father were ac. customed to ride horseback to Philadelphia, whence they shipped material to Canton in a large freight wagon, there being no railroads at that time. They paid strict attention to business and were the principal merchants in the county. Industrious and enterprising, success rewarded their efforts and they became well-to-do. The business was continued by our subject on the death of his father, so that it has been in existence for seventy years.
The parental family consisted of six sons and one daughter, one of the sons being now deceased. During the late war, four sons were active participants, W. H., George, Augustus and Albert, the last-named of whom is now a business man of Chicago.
The subject of our sketch acquired his education in the Union School of Canton, and after completing his studies, learned his trade with his father. At the time of the breaking out of the Civil War, he was only sixteen years of age, but his patriotism was fired and he determined to enlist in his country's service. He became a member of Company I, Sixty fourth Ohio Infantry, and was one of the youngest soldiers in Gen. Sherman's Brigade. He participated in all the principal engagements of the Army of the Cumberland, and served until the close of hostilities.
Returning to Canton when the war was ended, Mr. Buckius resumed the pursuits of peace and with his brother Augustus started in business. It was not long before the firm built up a large trade and from the beginning they were successful. The connection continued seven years, since which time our subject has been alone in business. Like his father, he has avoided political affairs and devotes his attention exclusively to the details of his business. In May, 1892, he established a factory to manufacture tinware for the wholesale trade.
In 1866, Mr. Buckius was married to Miss Emma, daughter of Solomon Kauffman, an early settler of Stark County. They have one son, Francis Howard, who is associated in business with his father. He is also an electrician, and manager of the electrical supply department in the firm of F. H. Buckius & Co. Our subject is identified, socially, with the Royal Arcanum and Knights of Pythias, and, as might be expected, is an active and prominent member of the Grand Army of the Republic. In politics, he is a Republican.
DETER EVERHART was formerly one of the able :agriculturists of Perry township, and his wise forethought, active enter prise and practical skill in conducting the business of farming and stock-raising made him a valuable agent in developing the rich agricultural resources of this part of Ohio. Mr. Everhart was born in Ithaca, N. Y., October 9, 1809, and was the son of Jacob and Ann Everhart, natives of Pennsylvania.
The original of this sketch was reared to man-hood in his native State, and for many years followed the occupation of a mechanic. He was employed in company with his brothers in Massillon, in the manufacture of fanning mills, the firm operating under the name of Everhart Brothers. They were very successful in this undertaking, and being active business men, invested their money judiciously, and exhibited an influence which was felt for good in their community.
The lady to whom Mr. Everhart was united in marriage, November 6, 1844, was Miss Elizabeth Clark, who was horn in Monroe County, N. Y., May 29, 1827. She was the daughter of Chester and Minerva (Rundle) Clark, natives also of that State and county. The first year of his married life our subject spent in Lynn, and the following year emigrated to Stark County, this State. The young couple at once located upon the farm where Mrs. Everhart is at present residing, and where so many years of their happy wedded life were spent. Our subject was well equipped to make his own way in the world, as he was active, independent, frugal and prudent and possessed withal an enter-prising spirit seconded by good habits, and a capacity to do well whatever he undertook, He played
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 365
an important part in the upbuilding of Perry Township, and assiduously tilled the soil for many years.
To Mr. and Mrs. Everhart were born three sons: Harvey C., a highly educated young man, who was graduated from the Massillon High School, and the Pittsburgh (Pa.) Commercial College; George R., who is an architect of high standing in Brook-' lyn, N. Y.; and one deceased. Our subject occupied a prominent place in local affairs, and served as Trustee of Perry Township for many years. He was public-spirited and always heartily in favor of whatever scheme was advanced to promote the interests of his adopted county. He was a Republican in politics, casting his vote at all times in favor of candidates of that party. He was a devoted member of the Episcopal Church, and esteemed for his honorable and upright life by all who knew him. Mrs. Everhart, who is also a member of the Episcopal Church, is a most estimable lady, and has shown herself entirely worthy of the high estimation in which she is held by her many friends and acquaintances.
At our subject's death, which occurred October 12, 1884, he left an estate of one hundred and twenty acres of valuable land, upon which will be found all the modern improvements which stamp its owner as progressive and well-to-do. Mrs. Everhart, since the death of her husband, has con-ducted the business that he left with remarkable success, displaying a general talent for managing affairs.
CHARLES DIEBOLD, Superintendent of the Diebold Safe and Lock Works of Canton, is one of the enterprising citizens of Stark County, and is at the head of one of its leading industries. A native of Germany, he was born in the town of Rosenburg, on the 20th of October, 1824, and is a son of Bernhardt and Mary (Cave) Diebold. His parents were also natives of Germany, and resided upon a farm in that country throughout their lives. They were highly re- spected people of the community where they made their home.
Our subject is the eldest of four children. He was educated in the common schools of the Father-land, and when it became time to take up some line of business, he learned the trade of a lock-smith, serving three years as an apprentice, in which time be completely mastered the business, becoming an expert workman. Wishing to try his fortune in America, he sailed for New Orleans in 1847, and after spending a few months in the Crescent City, made his way up the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers to Cincinnati, where be followed his trade for a time. He there became connected with the manufacture of safes, being associated with the firm of C. Bauman & Co. for ten years. He then commenced business in that line on his own account as a member of the firm of Diebold, Bauman & Co. They manufactured all kinds of safes, and continued business in Cincinnati for some years, but in 1872 the works were removed and permanently established in Canton The Diebold Safe and Lock Company has since been organized, and our subject has become one of its heaviest stockholders. He has been Superintendent of the works for many years, and his familiarity with the business in all its details makes him well adapted to the work. The company does an extensive business, and furnishes employment to between three and four hundred men. They build all sizes of vault safes, from the smallest to the largest, and sell all over the country, from the Lakes to the Gulf and from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
Mr. Diebold has been four times married; by the first wife he had one daughter, Louisa, now the wife of John Groom, of Covington, Ky. By his second wife two sons, William and Charles. No children were horn of the third union. n 1888, he wedded Mrs. Carrie ("lark, of the Empire State. She is a native of Canada, but was reared in New York. Her father, Thomas Outwaters, was a native of England, and his wife was a native of Wales. Mr. and Mrs. Diebold reside at No. 101 South Walnut Street. They are prominent citizens of the community and are widely known. Our subject is a self-made man, who deserves great credit
366 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
for his success in life, which is due entirely to his own efforts. He came to this country empty-handed, hoping to better his financial condition, and his hopes have been more than realized. His perseverance. good management and close attention to business have won him signal success, and Canton finds in him one of its worthy and valued citizens.
PETER D. GRABER. Stark County is greatly indebted for its present wealth and high standing to the sturdy, intelligent and enterprising tillers of the soil who have been instrumental in developing its vast agricultural re-sources. As a worthy member of its farming community, who has contributed toward its material advancement, it gives us pleasure to represent Mr. Graber in this volume. He has long been associated with the agricultural interests of Perry Township, and has built up a comfortable home.
He is it native of France and was born October 5, 1820, a son of Daniel and Mary Graber, also natives of that country, where they were well-to-do and respected citizens. Our subject, who has been a lifelong farmer, emigrated to this country in 1854, taking passage in a sailing-vessel at Havre, and after a tedious voyage of forty-three days landed in New York City. Thence he came directly to this county and made location on the place in Perry Township where he is at present residing.
His land was then in a primitive condition, but by persistent industry and good judgment he has placed his estate of two hundred and thirty-five acres under the best of cultivation. e has become well known as a successful farmer and pursues the most approved methods in the management of his place, keeping it above par in its improved and orderly appearance, and making of it an attractive as well as a remunerative piece of property.
Miss Catherine Rich, who was born in France, November 8, 1837, was married to our subject. Mrs. Graber is the daughter of Peter and Anna Rich and
was a young lady of eighteen years when she accompanied her parents on their emigration to the New World. Mr. and Mrs. Rich came directly to this county and made location in Perry Township, where their decease occurred. To Mr. and Mrs. Gruber have been born eleven children, seven of whom are living namely: Mary, now Mrs. Elmer Baer; Daniel; Lydia, Mrs. David Greber;; Leah, Anna, John, and Noah.
Mr. Graber votes the independent ticket in polities, casting his ballot for the man whom he eon-skiers will best fill the office. In 1887, he erected a fine residence on his property, which was designed with a view to the comfort of the occupants. His place is one of the most beautiful in the township and shows its owner to be a man of progress and enterprise. With each passing year he has added to his list of friends, and is to-day very much respected throughout the community in which he resides.
MARTIN SENGER. The highly improved and prosperous condition of Stark County is in a large degree due to its fanning population, which is for the most part composed of men who are strong in character, energetic in disposition, discriminate and sensible in judgment, and prompt to take advantage of what-, soever will prove to their benefit. It is of one of this class of whom we write. His homestead, corn-prising one hundred and seventy-nine acres in Tuscarawas Township, is one of the best in this region with its farm buildings of neat design, its rich harvest fields and its pastures devoted to the support of sleek and well-kept cattle, horses and swine.
Mr. Senger comes of Pennsylvania stock, and is himself a native of that Commonwealth, born in Lancaster County, October 18, 1838. His parents, Cyrus and Lydia (Gelman) Senger, were also born in that State and were both of German extraction. Our subject is the eldest of the family of eight children, and was reared to the life of a
Page 367 Pictures: Residence of Jacob Kagey, Sec 35, Nimishillen TP., Stark Co., Ohio: Residence of Peter D. Graber, SEC 23, Perry TWP., Stark Co., Ohio; Residence of Martin Senger, SEC 5, Tuscarawas TP., Stark Co., Ohio
Page 368 Blank
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 369
farmer in his native county. He early manifested an aptitude for agricultural pursuits and commenced when ten years of age to work out on farms during the summer months, attending the local schools in winter seasons.
Mr. Senger of this sketch came to Ohio in the spring of 1867, and made his home in Wayne County until 1880, when he took up his abode in this section, where he has since resided. He brings to his work as an agriculturist a good equipment of brain, skill in management and an extended experience. He is a man of sterling merit, conscientious and straightforward in his dealings, and his credit is high, for he is prompt in his payments and always does as he agrees to do in all his transactions.
Miss Elizabeth Brenneman became the wife of our subject December 31, 1861; she is the daughter of Christian Brenneman, and by her union with Mr. Senger has become the mother of five children, namely: Harvey (deceased), Fannie, Rudy, David L. and Henry M. As before stated, the property of our subject comprises one hundred and seventy-nine acres of land, which he worked hard in changing into a well cultivated, nicely improved farm. He occupies an honorable place in the estimation of his fellow-townsmen, and for three years served as School Director. In politics, he is a sturdy Republican, and worships with the Mennonite Church, of which be is a devoted member. Mrs. Senger is a very intelligent, efficient woman and an excellent house-wife, and looks well to the ways of her family. The couple are kind and charitable in their dispositions, and are held in universal esteem throughout the neighborhood.
JACOB KAGDEY. A lifetime spent in pursuing one calling will usually result in substantial success, especially if energy and perseverance are applied, and such is found to he the cage with Mr. Kagey, who from boyhood has given the occupation of agriculture the principal part of his time and attention, He was born on Ohio soil, Columbiana County, October 13, 1842, a son of Abraham and Hannah (Snyder) Kagey, the father born in Shenandoah County, Va., on the 11th of January, 1818. The Kagey family came to this country in four separate emigrations, and our subject's ancestors were of the third. His great-grandfather cane from Switzerland and settled in the Old Dominion, where our subject's father, Abraham Kagey, and grandfather, John Kagey, were born. The grandfather died in 1825, in Trumbull County, Ohio, whither he had moved between 1818 and 1825. A guardian, Henry Kagey, was appointed for the four children, of whom Abraham Kagey was the only son. The guardian having no sons, he took Abraham to live with him in Columbiana County, while the daughters were left in Trumbull County, where some of their descendants are now living.
Abraham Kagey was early taught the duties of farm life, and for some time worked as a hired hand, and his educational advantages were limited. On the 25th of December, 1841, he was married in the house where our subject now lives, and where the mother was born on the 23d of November, 1823. After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Kagey re-sided in Columbiana County about three years, farmed on rented land, and then, with the help of his father-in-law, bought eighty acres in Osnaburg Township, where he resided until 1854. He then sold out and purchased the home where our subject now lives of his father-in-law, the Rev. Jacob Snyder. Of the five children born to this union, three grew to mature years, and one other than our subject is now living. These children were named in the order of their birth as follows: Jacob, our subject; John, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, November 16, 1843, was killed on the railroad at Wooster, October 30, 1882, and left it wife and four daughters, now residing in Alliance, Ohio; Daniel, born in this county, February 11, 1848, now a resident of Nimishillen Township, this county ; Laura died at the age of three years, six months and eighteen days, while the youngest child died in infancy.
Jacob Kagey was twelve years of age when his father bought the present farm, but for certain reasons he received a very limited education, attend-
370 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
ing school only from the age of nine to twelve. He did not know his letters until nine years of age, and during the short time he was in the school-room he got a little start in reading, writing and arithmetic. Being a great reader and a man of observation, he has corrected this early deficiency to a great extent, and is considered well posted on all subjects. Until the age of twenty-two, he gave his time to his father, except four months when he had worked out, and on the 13th of March, 1864, with the sum of $44 to start with, he married Miss Sarah Berlin, a native of Nimishillen Township, this county, born November 13, 1839, and a close neighbor to Mr. Kagey. Her patents were Isaac and Margaret (Trump) Berlin. After marriage, our subject worked as a day-laborer for four years, and then rented his father's farm. For four years, he ran a threshing-machine, and as he was obliged to keep his own books, this proved of use to him, for he became more accurate in figures, and had no trouble with anyone when he came to settle up. At the end of the four years, or in 1873, he bought his father's farm of one hundred and eighteen acres, and quit threshing. His father died at Massillon on the 1st of June, 1873, and our subject has since lived on his present farm. The mother is also deceased.
Our subject has had four sons as follows: Isaac, horn on the 8th of October, 1864, died April 14, 1866; William, born on the 13th of August, 1866, now clerking in a grocery at South Bend, Ind., married Miss Jennie Schilling, March 6, 1890. He has a good business education, and is a wide-awake, enterprising young man. Hie only child, Howard Harrison, was born at South Bend, Ind., March 21, 1892. The third son is John Ben-ton, who was born July 14, 1871, received a good education in the district schools, and when but seventeen years of age began teaching, and seems naturally fitted for that profession. e has a two-years certificate, and is a well-educated young gentleman. He is now teaching the home school. The youngest of Mr. Kagey's four sons is Ira Ellsworth, born November 13, 1874, now obtaining a good education, and is a very studious young man.
The father of our subject in early life was a Democrat, but became a Republican later in life. He was a Deacon in the German Baptist Church at the time of his death. Our subject also advocates the principles of the Republican party, and voted the day he was twenty-one years of age for John Brough. His first Presidential vote was for A. Lincoln. Mr. Kagey has been Treasurer for the Home Insurance Company for Nimishillen and Osnaburg Townships for six successive years. He is at present serving his second year as Director of the Agricultural Society. In 1890, he was nominated by the Republican party as Land Appraiser, but as the Township is strongly Democratic, he was defeated as he expected to be. Mee. Kagey is a member of the Reformed Church in Louisville.
JOHN NOFSINGER has met with more than ordinary success in prosecuting his calling of a farmer, and since casting his lot with the pioneers of this county many pioneers of this county many years ago, has accumulated a valuable property and is classed among the well-to-do agriculturists of this section of Ohio. He owns one hundred and eighty-two acres of land in his county, his farming interests being centered in Bethlehem Township, where he is enjoying the fruits of his early labors and the comforts of a substantial home. Our subject, who is a native of the Keystone State, was born in Somerset County, .January 6, 1815, to John and Elizabeth Nofsinger, who were also natives of that State. n the spring of 1815, when only three months old, he was brought to this county by his parents, who emigrated hither and located on a farm in the woods of Bethlehem Township, which the father industriously set to work to redeem from its primitive wildness.
Our subject was the eldest in the parental family of six children, three of whom are living, namely, John, Samuel and Jacob. He had very few ad-vantages in his youth, as is too often the case with people in poor financial circomstances, and he re
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 37I
ceived only a common-school education, but such is the excellence of schools in America that rich and poor alike may master the essential amount of learning for is business career at a small cost. He was married, in 1837, to Miss Rebecca Hensel, and to them was born is family of five children, only one of whom is living, John.
Mr. Nofsinger owns a good farm, and in the prosecution of his calling has achieved a success that places him among the leading agriculturists of his township. He belongs to the Democratic party, and during his earlier years was a wide-awake business man, embracing every opportunity for advancing his own interests or those of the community in which he makes Iria home.
The devoted wife and counselor of our subject departed this life in 1881, a conscientious member of the Reformed Church. She was a most estimable lady and had endeared herself to the hearts of the people, not only in this township but throughout the county. Mr. Nofsinger has so well and systematically performed the duties of life that he has amassed a competency which enables him to pass his declining years im pence and quiet. He is numbered among the most successful pioneers of Stark County and has many friends who recognize the ability of his character and rerlize that he deserves to be held in the highest possible esteem.
E. J. SPRANKEL,. Among the sons of Stark County, Ohro, who have made therr work felt in the upbuilding of the township on agrrcultural and commercial lines, may be mentioned Mr. Sprankel, who was the third child and second son in a family of four sons and live daughters born to his parents, only four members of which family are now living. No State in the forty-four gives greater encouragement to a man who desires to devote himself to agricultural life than does Ohio, for its resources are almost iuexhatstihle and its climate is adapted to the culti- vation of varied crops. Mr. Sprankel is one who I has met with success in the lineof agriculture, and ' now follows general farming and stock-raising on his fine farm of one hundred and fifty-one acres in Jackson Township.
Our subject was born in the township in which he now resides January 7, 1844, at which place his father, Henry Sprankel, was also born, in 1817. His life was spent as a tiller of the soil on section 19, Jackson Township, and there he was married and reared his family. His wife, Miss Susanna Howeustein, was born in Pennsylvania in 18.21, and at the age of thirteen she was brought to Stark County by her father, David Howenstein, a native of Pennsylvaura, who, after some years' residence in Wayne County, spent his last days in Lawrence Township, Stark County. The paternal graudfather,111ichacl Sprankel, first saw the light of day in York, Pa., and after reaching manhood removed to Stark County, Ohio, in 1815, and until his death, at the age of eighty-two years, he resided on a farm in Jackson Township.
E J. Sprankel's early days were spent in attending the district schools near his home and in discharging the monotonous, yet healthful, duties that usually fall to the lot of the farmer's boy. After attaining a suitable age, he entered Inland College, Greensburgh, Ohio, and after leaving that institution taught school for one term. He then returned home to lend his father aid on the farm and was his able assistant until he was twenty-two years of age. October 30, 1867, his marriage with Miss Catherine A. Killinger was celebrated, and shortly, after this event he located on the farm on which he now resides, which at that time was but little improved. His present handsome and commodious residence was built in 1889 at a cost of *3,000, and his barn, which is 88x40 feet in dimensions, was put np in 1891 rnd cost $1,8(11).
Mr. Sprankel devotes much of his attention to the raising of stock, in which he has shown excel-lent judgment, and hie sound sense and discrimination have been put to the test in the capacity of administrator of numerous estates. e is a Repubhcan in politics, a patron of education, aud for many years has been a School Director. His marriage resulted in the birth of two children, one of
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whom died in infancy and the other at the age of ten years, His wife is a daughter of Jacob. and Rebecca (Wandler) Killinger, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Stark County.
Mr. and Mrs. Sprankel are members of the German Baptist Church, and they are looked up to and honored by their numerous acquaintances. Mr. Sprankel's success in life is entirely due to his own push, pluck and perseverance, and from a small beginning he has risen to a position of prominence in the community where he is so well known and thoroughly respected.
JAMES JOHNSON HOOVER. It is an undeniable truth that the life of any man is of great benefit to the community in which he resides when all his efforts are directed toward advancing its interests and when he lives ac- cording to the highest principles of what he conceives to be right. Such a man is Mr. Hoover, the editor of the Massillon America, a paper published in the interests of the section in which he resides, irrespective of party. He was born in Blair County, Pa., November 5, 1849, but his father, Samuel Hoover, was born in Cumberland County, Pa., and by trade was a hatter. He became a resident of Williamsburgh, Pa., in which place he not only followed his trade but discharged the duties of Postmaster and also taught school. In 1857, he re- moved to Hollidaysburgh, having been elected to the position of County Treasurer for one term, and afterward discharged the duties of Deputy for several terms. The last year of the Civil War, he served his country in the Two Hundred and Thirteenth Pennsylvania Infantry until the cessation of hostilities, after which he became the editor of the Hollidaysburgh Register. This he disposed of after editing it for a number of years, and in December, 1870, he came to Massillon, and in connection with his son, James Johnson Hoover, became the proprietor of the Massillon American. In 1888, he retired from journalistic work, and the paper has since been conducted in a most praiseworthy manner by its present editor.
Samuel Hoover was married in 1845 to Miss Elizabeth Phillips, a native of the Keystone State, who was called from life while a resident of Trumbull County. She became the mother of six children, all of whom were reared to maturity in Pennsylvania.
James Johnson Hoover's early life did not differ materially from that of the average boy, for he obtained sufficient exercise to strengthen and develop his physical being, while his mental qualities were enhanced by attendance at the common schools. The Massillon American, a nine-column folio, is a spicy, breezy sheet, and from its columns may be gleaned items of interest and value to all, no matter what the business may be in which they arc engaged. The editorial department is ably conducted. The printing is done by steam, and the establishment is well equipped to turn out all kinds of job work on short notice and in a creditable manner.
In 1875, Mr. Hoover was married to Miss Jeannette Ricks, a native of Maryland, who died in 1883. She loft, beside her husband, two children to mourn her loss: Lyndon and Charles Maxwell. Mr. Hoover's second union took place in November, 1887, Miss Charlotte Smith, daughter of the late N. J. Smith, a prominent farmer of Perry Township, becoming his wife. They have two children: Harold S., and Helen. e and his wife are respected members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is genial and wholesouled, and of a generous disposition.
SAMUEL SMITH. Pennsylvania has contributed to Stark County, Ohio, many estimable citizens, but she has contributed none more worthy of suceess, or more prominently identified with the growth and prosperity of the county, than the subject of this sketch. He
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Vcomes of German descent and inherits from his Teutonic ancestors much of his thrift and energy. his grandfather, Balcher Smith, was born in Germany, and the favorable reports received from America tempted him to make a settlement on this lade of the ocean. He was quite a young man when be came to this country, and he first made a it settlement in Cumberland County, Pa., where he was married. There he passed the life of an honest, industrious citizen.The father of our subject, Joseph Smith, was born in the grand old State of Pennsylvania, in Cumberland County, and there he grew to man-hood. Ile selected his wife in the person of Miss Anna Bayshorn, a native of Chambersburgh, Franklin County, Pa., and their nuptials were celebrated in that county. Her father was a native of Germany. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Smith settled on a farm in Franklin County, and as the years passed away they improved a good farm and gathered around them many of the comforts of life, prominent among them being four children, three sons and one daughter. On this farm, where they had passed the best years of their lives, this worthy couple passed away, the mother dying when about sixty, and the father when eighty-four years of age.
All these children reached the years of discretion and our subject was second in order of birth. He was born in Franklin County, Pa., on the 2d of September, 1827, and was there reared and educated, receiving his schooling in the district schools. He was a single man when he came to Ohio, in 1852, and he began improving one hundred and sixty acres of land which he had purchased in Lawrence Township. In 1854, he married Miss Mary Ruth, a native of Ohio, born in Canton, Stark County. She died in the '60s, leaving the following children: Levi, Lovina, Caroline, Ellen, Amanda, Mary, John and Charles. All are now living and all reside in Lawrence Township, with the exception of Amanda and Lovina.
Immediately following his marriage, our subject settled on his farm, on section 1, Lawrence Township, and was there engaged in general farming for ten years. After this, he moved to the Miller Farm, which he had bought during the war, re-
mained on this three years and then moved to where he now lives on section 3. He owns three good farms in Lawrence Township, ail improved with houses and barns and consisting of three hundred and twenty-two acres. The farm on section 1 has one hundred and sixty acres, and he also owns eighty acres on the same section. His sons are living on the farms and our subject is carrying on the home place. He handles a great deal of stock And is wide-awake and enterprising. He erected all the buildings on his farms, and very commodious and comfortable structures they are, ornaments to any place. In politics, he affiliates with the Republican party. He is one of the county's most thorough-going, reliable, straightforward men and one of the first-class men of the township.
DAVID KERSTETTER Sr This well known pioneer, wh is everywhere respected for his sterling worth, has been a resident of this county since the latter part of the year 1816, and has done his share towards the development and improvement of the same. He is now retired from the active duties of life, and is enjoying the accumulations of years of hard labor. He was born in Centre County, Pa., on the 7th of May, 1816, and was about six months old when brought to this county by his parents. His father, John Kerstetter, was a native of Northumberland County, Pa., and the grand- father, Leonard Kerstetter, was also a native of that grand old State, and of German descent. The latter followed the occupation of a miler and farmer in his native State. About 1814, he came to Stark County, Ohio, and bought two mills, a grist and saw mill, both erected in 1812, and also purchased thirty-five acres of land. his death occurred in this county in 1822. Our subject has a part of the headstone that marks the resting-place of his grandfather. It is marked "L. 1822 K." the sane being cut in by Hon. George Harsh when a boy of twelve years, our subject standing by to
374 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
sec it done. The grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and was a Lutheran in his religious views.
John Kerstetter, father of our subject, was reared in Pennsylvania, and early in life was drilled in the duties of farm life. He married Miss Elizabeth Young, a native of Philadelphia, Pa., and the daughter of Christian Young, who was a native of Germany, where he was married. Like many of that nationality, he was a weaver by trade, and after coming to America he followed that calling in Penn's Valley until his death. His wife was also an expert weaver, and could manufacture cloth. Mr. Kerstetter brought his family, consisting of his wife and three children, to Ohio in 1816, and made the journey with team and wagon. He located on one hundred and sixty-nine acres ad-joining his father's land, erected a rude log cabin, and began developing and improving in true pioneer style. The cabin had one room, the door was hung with wooden hinges, and two windows, 8x10 inches, furnished the light. Only three acres of land were cleared, and this worthy couple went eagerly to work to make a comfortable and pleas-ant home. As the years passed away, they re-placed the log cabin with a good, new house, and also erected a commodious barn, but before these could be paid for, Mr. Kerstetter was accidentally killed by being run over by a wagon while unloading rails in a field. His death occurred in 1830, when thirty-nine years of age. When n resident of Pennsylvania, he served in the War of 1812. His wife died on the farm in 1852. They were the parents of seven children, five sons and two daughters, only two of whom now survive. One son, Daniel, resides in Texas, Ohio.
The immediate subject of this sketch was reared two and a-half miles from Massillon, on the same quarter-section as Hon. George Harsh, and they were schoolmates together, attending the same log schoolhouse and sitting on the same slab seats. This was during the winter season principally, and our subject received but about twelve months' schooling altogether. However, he made up for this to a great extent by diligent study at the old fire-place during the long winter evenings. He after-ward went to school to Mr. George Harsh. He was but fourteen years of age when his father died, , and was early thrown upon his own resources. He immediately went to work to pay off the debt of *1,000 his father had left, and soon succeeded in doing this, but not without considerable self-sacrifice and much hard labor. Self-made and self-reliant, he has reached his present enviable position through a career of usefulness, honor and integrity.
When twenty-two years of age, our subject began teaching school and continued this for seven winters, working on the farm during the summer months. He invested in different farms, and after improving would sell at a considerable profit, con-tinning this for many years. He was a very successful farmer and thoroughly understood his business. He embarked in buying and selling sheep, and sold wool for $1 a pound. Later, he sold off his stock and bought a farm of eighty-six acres in Lawrence Township, near the old home, and sold this four years later at it big profit.
In the year 1866, October 2d, he located in Massillon, Ohio, outside the corporation, and later he bought his present property at No. 316 North Mill Street. He has dealt in land some since then, and now owns considerable real estate. He was married first on the 2d of October, 1842, in Lawrence, Ohio, to Miss Sarah Weygandt, a native of Lawrence, and the daughter of Henry Weygandt, a farmer by occupation. Four children have been born to this union, as follows: David, who enlisted in the Eighteenth U. S. Regulars in 1861, when seventeen years of age, and served three years. Later, he re-enlisted in the same company and served two years in the Rocky Mountains—six years in all. He held the rank of Sergeant-Major when he was mustered out on the 22d of December, 1866. Since then he has resided in Massillon, and is a brick-layer by trade; Melissa is now Mrs. Ruch, of Lawrence, Ohio; John is engaged in business in Ionia, Mich., and Benjamin is a painter of New-ark, N. J.
Mr. Kerstetter's second marriage occurred in Lawrence Township, this county, on the 2d of October, 1859, to Miss Sarah Biller, a native of Canton Township, this county, and they have four interesting children: Marietta, now Mrs.
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Trophagen resides in Massillon, and Viola, Sadie M., and Marcellus, who are at home. Our subject was Township Trustee, and in 1859 he was Real-estate Assessor, also Township Assessor. In the year 1871, he was Assistant City Assessor and he has been School Director in Lawrence Town-ship for fifteen years. He is deeply interested in educational matters and has assisted in building many schoolhouses. He is n strong advocate of the principles of the Republican party and his first Presidential vote was cast for Gen. Harrison in 1836. He was not old enough, but in some way man-aged to vote. He has been a delegate to county and State conventions several times and has hold many position of trust in the county. The life of Mr. Kerstetter strikingly emphasizes the marvelous industry, tireless energy, and broad spirit of enter-prise that are to-day so characteristic of the American man of affairs.
ABRAHAM FASNACHT. An assured positson among the farmers of Stark County is that held by our subject, who is success- fully prosecuting his calling in Perry Township. His estate is sufficiently large to afford him abundant occupation for mind and body, and to furnish means with which to secure all the comforts of life and make provision for his declining years. On every part of the estate the evidences of intelligent management may be seen, and the surroundings of the residence indicate the presence of refined womanhood and her controlling hand in the household economy.
The birth of Mr. Fasnacht took place in Lancaster County, Pa., September 19, 1832, his parents being ,John and Rebecca (Swigard) Fasnacht, natives of Pennsylvania and of German ancestry. Abraham of this sketch was a lad of four years when he accompanied his parents on their emigration to this county, making the journey overland with a blind horse and wagon. The family-located in Berlin, where the father followed his trade of a weaver in connection with his farm.
Of the eleven children comprised in the parental family, the following survive: Mary, Mrs. David Taxtel; Abraham; Samuel; Hannah, Mrs. Ransom Reynolds; George; Nancy, Mrs. John Lantz; and Henry. The elder Mr. Fasnacht was a prominent member of the Lutheran Church and departed this life in 1881. Our subject was reared to man's estate amid the pioneer scenes of this county and received his primary education in a log school-house which had a puncheon floor and no windows.
Abraham Fasnacht and Miss Sarah Wagner, who is a native of this county, were united in marriage June 9, 1855. Mrs. Fasnacht, who was born April 1, 1836, is the daughter of Christian and Susan Wagner, the latter of whom departed this life in 1861. Her parents, who were natives of Pennsylvania, emigrated to this county in an early day, where they occupied a high position among the pioneers. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner had a family of nine children, six of whom are living: Lucinda, the widow of Fred Shepley; Samuel; Sarah; Harriet, Mrs. John Smith; Benjamin and Jacob. The father is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church and has now attained the advanced age of eighty-eight years.
To Mr. and Mrs. Fasnacht of this sketch have been granted a family of seven children, all of whom are living with one exception, and who bear the respective names of Emma; Hannah, Mrs. Benjamin Snyder; Flora, the wife of Charles Stribar; Alfred, Horace, Clarence; and Nina, deceased. In 1864, our subject located on his present farm, which comprises one hundred and eighty-four acres of valuable land. He is one of the representative citizens of this county and has contributed materially to its agricultural development and prosperity.
Mr. Fasnacht has always been actively interested in school affairs and at the present time is serving as Director of the Board. In his political relations, he is a stanch Republican, and receives his due measure of respect from those by whom he is known, and i1 one who in social and domestic life is genial and considerate. With his wife, he is a
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member of the Lutheran Church and is classed among the most efficient and energetic workers in the congregation.
GUSTAVUS ELBEL. Distinguished among the oldest, most extensive and the most re-liable manufacturing concerns in the saddlery hardware trade, not only in the city of Can-ton, but throughout the entire country. is that of Elbel & Co., who control a trade of great magnitude in everything pertaining to the business. The works were, first established in Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1847, but were moved to Canton, Ohio, by Elbel, Gilliam Jr Co. in 1880. They purchased the building formerly occupied by the Printing Press Manufacturing Co., to which other buildings have been added, the material being brick. This company manufactures saddlery hardware of all kinds and descriptions, brass, silver, nickel-plate, tinner's and japanner's and malleable iron castings. The individual members of the firm are G. Elbel, Edwin Davis and Paul Gschwend. They employ from two hundred to two hundred and twenty men all the time and are doing a flourishing business. Prompt attention is given to all orders, and the house is one with which it is desirable on the part of dealers and others to form relations, since these are sure to be satisfactory, permanent and profitable. The members of this company are widely known throughout the community as energetic, honorable business men, and their standing and position in both commercial and social circles is of the highest and most creditable character.
Mr. Elbel is a native of Germany, having been born June 24, 1835, and passed his boyhood days in his native country, receiving a common-school education. He emigrated to the United States in his fourteenth year, and after an ocean voyage of forty-nine days, landed in Baltimore, Md. From there he went to Pittsburgh, Pa., and for some time was engaged in the scale business. Later, he was a pattern-maker for different parties and dif ferent firms. In 1865, he was employed as a pat. tern-maker by a Pittsburgh firm, and subsequently was taken into the firm as a partner. They manufactured all kinds of malleable iron saddlery, hardware, etc., and continued business there until 1880, when our subject came to Canton and established his present works, in which he owns a con-trolling interest.
Mr. Elbel, being a practical and skilled mechanic, superintends the general business and especially the mechanical and finishing department. Having placed the business upon a substantial basis, it is now one of the growing and important industries of Canton. -
Mr. Elbel was united in marriage, in 1862, to Miss Elizabeth Anderegg, of Pittsburgh, Pa., but a native of Switzerland, and she now presides in a graceful and pleasing manner over his fine residence at No. 368 North Cleveland Avenue. Nine children have been born to this union, a son and three daughters still living, five being deceased.
JOHN W. MUSKOPF. The spirit of progress so characteristic of the American citi zens of the nineteenth century finds an exemplification in the gentleman above named. He is a farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section 22, Perry Township, where he owns a splendid estate. He worked hard to obtain an education, and has toiled industriously to gain a competence and provide for himself a good home. In this endeavor he has succeeded, and his comfortable dwelhng abounds in good cheer for body and mind, while the various other buildings upon the estate are neat and well built.
He of whom we write is a native of this county and was born November 28, 1847, to John and Elizabeth Muskopf. The father of our subject is a native of Germany and emigrated to this country, making location in Stark County in the '30s. He is still living here, having attained the age of three-score years and ten. He was married three
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times and of his large family of children the following survive: Catherine, our subject, Jacob, Clara, Laura, Louisa, Samuel, Maggie and Daniel. The elder Mr. Muskopf is a member of the Evangelical Church, in which body he has many warm friends.
John W. Muskopf of this sketch was orphaned by the death of his mother when nine days old, and was then taken into the home of his grand-father, Daniel Urshel, where he was given fair opportunities for an education and was reared to manhood. His grandfather was an early settler in Stark County and was a member of the German Lutheran Church.
The original of this sketch was married August 20, 1874, to Miss Frances Way, who was born in Pike Township, this county, and is a daughter of Frederick Way, who is still living in the above-named township. To Mr. and Mrs. Muskopf have been born three children: Ira A., Kittie S. and Grace.
Our subject owns eighty acres of land, which he has placed under good cultivation, and is one of the most active agriculturists in this part of the county. He is a valued member of the Reformed Church at Richville. In politics, he is a Democrat and a member of the Perry Grange at Massillon. A reliable, steady-going citizen, an industrious farmer and good neighbor, he is looked upon with respect and his wife also has many friends.
LOUIS B. OHLIGER, Superintendent of the City Water Works, and Chief of the Fire Department at Canton, was born in the city where he now resides, April 9, 1855. His parents, Louis and Mary Ohliger, were natives of Germany, where they were reared and married, and where their eldest child, Jacob, now a resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., was born. At an early day they came to America and settled in Canton, where the father embarked in the hotel business and continued thus engaged for some years. He subsequently retired to private life, and at a good old age passed from earth, in 1888. His wife had died some years previous. They were worthy people, of whose memory their children are justly proud. The father became quite prominent in public affairs, serving as City Councilman from the Third Ward, and also occupying other positions of honor.
The parental family consisted of four sons and two daughters: Jacob, Christ, Louis B., one deceased, Elizabeth, now Mrs. Edward Diener, and Augusta, wife of John Brown. The subject of this sketch was reared in Canton, and received a limited education in the common schools of the place. His mother having died when he was about six years of age, the children were early forced to become self-supporting, and had none of the ad-vantages which are enjoyed by those whose circumstances are more fortunate. When fourteen years old, Louis B. commenced to learn the trade of plumbing, steam and gas fitting, and as he was quick to learn and prompt to execute, he soon became an expert in the business, and commanded good wages.
Subsequently, Mr. Ohliger became foreman for George W. Dillon, in his plumbing, steam and gas-fitting works, where he remained until 1882. He was then appointed Chief of the Fire Department under a Republican administration, and has since served in that capacity. A few months after becoming Chief, he was appointed Superintendent of the Water Works, which position he has ever since filled to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. His long term of office sufficiently indicates his popularity, and it is safe to say that, of all the citizens of Canton, there is not one who occupies a. higher place in the regard of all than does he. In the best sense of that often abused word, he is "self-made," and although he had few school ad-vantages, he has become well informed on all the leading subjects of interest, and is a thoughtful reader of current literature. From his business investments he realizes a good income and prosperity has rewarded his efforts.
In 1876, Mr. Ohliger was married to Miss Salome Oberly, of Greensburgh, Ohio, and they are the parents of one child, Conn. n his social relations, our subject is identified with the Knights of
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Pythias,, National Union, and the Knights of the Golden Rule. Politically, he is a stanch adherent of the principles of the Democratic party, and gives his influence to the promotion of all public measures calculated to advance the welfare of the city.
BENJAMIN DOLL, a native of this county, has done much important pioneer work. He has passed the sixtieth milestone that marks an honorable life, and is still keenly interested in farming and stock-raising. His estate is amply supplied with commodious buildings for every purpose, and he is regarded as one of the prominent men in his community, mind has many warm friends who esteem him highly for his sterling worth.
Mr. Doll was born July 27, 1827, in this county, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Risher) Doll, natives, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Mary-land. His mother, when nine years of age, in 1809, emigrated to Stark County in company with her parents, and during her life could relate many an interesting tale of pioneer life in the new State. in that early day, the family were often compelled to flee to the block-houses in order to protect I themselves from the Indians.
John Doll, the father of our subject, emigrated to this State with his parents in 1814, the family locating in Osnaburg Township, this county, making their home in a log cabin in the woods. Of his large family of children, the following survive: Our subject, Josiah, Frank, Isaac, George and Eli. He of whom we write was reared to man's estate in this county, and received a practical education in the common schools. Many an acre of raw prairie land has be broken with the old-time plow, drawn by oxen, and with the ox-team hauled grain to market in those days. n his youth he was inured to hard labor, but thereby developed self-reliance and force of character, which have proved of incalculable benefit to him in later years.
The lady to whom our subject was united in marriage in 1857 was known in her maidenhood as Miss Catherine Fisher, and to them was horn a family of eight children: Josiah, Flora, Denison, Logan, Melville, Corn, Albert, and Kent. The wife and mother departed this life May 14, 1888, and the lady whom Mr. Doll chose for his second wife was Mary A., a daughter of John Jeffers, a resident of this township.
In the spring of 1852, the original of this sketch went to California, taking passage on a steamer from the harbor of New York City, and landed after a voyage of one month in San Francisco. He remained in the Golden State for three years, and was engaged in mining with fair success. He has since visited California on three different occasions, but always returns well satisfied with his home in the Buckeye State.
Mr. Doll is the proprietor of one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land which his industry and enterprise have placed under excellent tillage, and from which he reaps a comfortable income. In politics, he is a stanch Republican, warmly advocating the principles of that party, and does all in his power to advance its interests. He has served acceptably as School Director in his district, and is a member of the Perry Grange at Massillon. Mr. Doll is a man of sensible opinions on all subjects with which he is conversant, his dealings are al-ways on the square, and his credit in money matters, as in all things whatsoever, is sound.
SIMON P. EBY. The life of a farmer, particularly if one takes possession of an undeveloped tract of land, calls forth the vigor of body and powers of mind in a degree that would he surprising to one who is unacquainted with rural life. The man who eau make a success of agriculture must be ready to take ad- vantage of the variations in the soil and climate, and must therefore be keenly observant regarding the results of drainage, rotation of crops and
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methods of cultrvation. It is by reason of industry and intelligence on the part of its farmers that Stark County has reached its present state of de- Development and productiveness, and those who have aided in this work are deserving of grateful re Among those who in Plain Township have been for many years advancing the interests of the county is Simon P. Eby, who is engaged in fanning and stock-raising on section 24.
The natal day of our subject was October 26, 1821, and his birthplace section 24 of the above-named township. His father, David Eby, was a naitive of Virginia, and his grandfather, also David Eby, was a native of the same State and served as a drummer-boy in the Revolutionary War, having run away from home when fourteen years of age, and, joining the army, served his country faith-fully and well for seven years.
David Eby located in this county ill 1806, where he entered four hundred and eighty acres of laud from the Government. The journey hither was made on horseback and he was accompanied at that time by his parents and their family. The father, who ranked among the oldest pioneers of this section, died in 1832. David Eby in company with a brother kept "bach" for about a twelvemonth, when the brother was married, and David then made his home with him. This section was still the haunt 'of deer and wild animals, but it seemed to Mr. Eby to present opportunities that made it a desirable place in which to locate. He there-fore, ere long, built n log cabin, and, going back to Pennsylvania, was there married, and returning to his new home with his bride, hasever sincc been numbered among the agriculturists of the county. The primitive furnishings of their log cabin consisted of a table, which was made by driving sticks into the ground and placing on them clapboards, and the bed and one or two chairs were fashioned in the same manner. Their nearest neighbor was two and one-half miles distant, and when ready to market the products of the farm at Cleveland, Mr. Eby was obliged to cut a road through to Greensburgh, and on returning brought leather, salt, etc., which be received in exchange for his grain. His success in the development of his land was complete,, and at his death, which occurred in his sev enty-ninth year, he owned two hundred and forty acres of land in this township and three hundred and twenty acres in Summit County, this State. He was a self-made man and acquired this vast amount of property through his own diligence and skill as a practical, wide-awake farmer. He was an active member of the Baptist Church, in which denomination he served as Deacon for many years.
The mother of our subject, who, prior to her marriage, was Miss Catherine Leezer, was born in Washington County, Pa., and became the mother of six children, of whom Rhoda and Reuben are deceased. Those living are Delilah, Simon P. and Rachel. The mother of these children was, like her husband, a devoted member of the German Baptist Church, and (lied when sixty-six years of age. Her father, Peter Leezer, was a farmer in Pennsylvania, and when advanced in years came to this county and made his home with the father of our subject, where his decease occurred at the advanced age of eighty-four years. His wife, who survived him some time, died in the ninety-sixth year of her age. They were both members of the German Baptist Church.
He of whom we write was reared amid the scenes of a somewhat primitive nature, and enjoyed only the educational advantages afforded by the subscription schools. He has been an eye-witness of the wonderful development of this section, and in company with his brother John farmed the old homestead until reaching his thirtieth year. His wedded life with Miss Annie Harshbarger, which began April 20, 1852, is a worthy example of a true marriage. Mrs. Eby was horn in Osnaburg Township, this county, November 9, 1827, and has borne her husband six children, only two of whom, Phoebe and Matilda, are living. Those deceased are Catherine, Malinda, Delilah and David.
After establishing a home of his own, our subject farmed in this township until 1872, when he re-moved to Nimishillen Township and made his home on the Georgetown Road for the succeeding thirteen years. At the expiration of that time, he took possession of his present farm, which comprises three hundred and two acres of valuable land, and is one of the finest estates in the
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county. His energy, enterprise and business tact have been prominent agents in pushing forward the interests of this section and in advancing its material prosperity. Ho has, however, lived a re-tired life for the past twenty-eight years, having acquired considerable wealth in the prosecution of his calling. He is in every respect a good citizen, and is fully trusted by his fellow-men, because he has always carried himself as an upright, God-fearing man, conducting himself toward others so as to secure their good-will and respect. e is en-gaged in lending money, and makes his home on his beautiful estate, which is improved with numerous substantial buildings of a high order, and stocked with the best grades of cattle and horses.
The original of this sketch is one of the prominent and influential members of the German Baptist Church, with which denomination he has been connected for the past twenty-four years, and is occupying the office of Deacon at the present time. Ile hAs been very liberal in his contributions to-ward its support, and, in company with his brother, donated nearly all the funds necessary to erect the splendid large edifice in which that denomination worships. He is, in the truest sense of the phrase, a self-made man, possesses a keen, resolute nature, the ability to execute his plans and persistent industrial habits, by which he has prospered marvelously. He is always found ready and willing to contribute to all schemes for the advancement of the township and county, and enjoys the friend-ship of many who appreciate the genuine worth of his character.
OREN FREEMAN. Among those who are cultivating a portion of the soil of Perry Township with good results and securing thereby many comforts and enjoyments is the gentleman above named. His home comprises seventy-eight and one-fourth acres of land, and his occupation is that of a general farmer, wisely dividing his attention between diversified crops and such a number of domestic animals as can be well kept and are easily cared for. His estate is under cultivation and indicates in its appearance that it is controlled by one who understands his business.
Our subject was born September 13, 1842, in this township, to John and Mary (Scott) Freeman, natives of New Jersey and Scotland respectively. The father was brought to this county when a boy and is now one of the oldest living settlers in Perry Township, having attained his eighty-third year. He is the father of the following children: Elizabeth, Mrs. A. Whipple; Mary, Mrs. George Ingold; Susan the wife of John Bailey; Jeanette Ann, Mrs. Gabriel Swihart; Oren; John; Agnes, Mrs. Jacob Devies; Adelia, Mrs. John Swinehart; and Arletta, the wife of Prof. Lester Nave, of Massillon.
Oren Freeman of this sketch studied during his boyhood in a temple of learning which had but three windows and was built and furnished in a primitive fashion. However, he was able to ac-quire a practical knowledge of the principal branches of study, and having an active mind and a desire for information, he has added to his knowledge in various ways from year to year. But little clearing had been done upon the home farm when he was old enough to aid in its cultivation, and he now sees around him the fruits of his labors and the many comforts of modern life. He remembers an early day when oxen were used in breaking the land and rude implements of every description occupied the home place.
August 12, 1862, Mr. Freeman was married to Miss Mary Allen, a lady of fine character, domes-tic knowledge and social nature. She is a native of this county and the daughter of Austin and Ann Allen, early settlers of this township. The happy union has been blessed by one daughter, Inez, now the wife of John W. Black.
In his political relations, our subject is a stanch Republican, and has ever shown a deep interest in the cause of education and other civilizing and elevating influences in his community. He is well-informed regarding topics of general interest, ex-presses himself readily regarding them and has a manly character which leads his neighbors to re-
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 381
spect him. He has been very successful in his a occupation and occupies a high place ear his fellow-agriculturists. A sketch of his father John Freeman, Sr., will be found on another in this volume.
CHRISTIAN GERBER. The biographer takes especial pleasure in recording the principal events in the life of one who, like Mr. Gerber, was born in Stark County and here reared to manhood when this now flourishing section of country was an undeveloped wilderness. Through out his long and honorable career as an agriculturist, Mr. Gerber has been truly interested in evey movement which will advance the interests of his community, and has always been known as one of its most enterprising and pushing citizens.
This prominent citizen of Bethlehem Township was horn in Stark County, Ohio, January 8, 1820. His parents, Jacob and Magdalena Gerber, were natives of Pennsylvania, and his maternal grand-father was a soldier in the War of 1812. During the early days in the history of Ohio, Jacob Gerber removed hither in 1812, and settled in Canton Township, Stark County. of which he was one of the first settlers, and where he resided until his death in 1827. He aided in the pioneer work of developing the vast resources of the county, and improved a farm from the wilderness.
Amid such surroundings as were common in pioneer settlements, Christian Gerber grew to a rugged manhood, well fitted to bear his part in the labor of cultivating a farm. When about twenty-one years of age, he commenced to learn the trade of a carpenter, which he afterward followed for many years in connection with agricultural pursuits. Prior to learning his trade, he had attended the school held in a log building near his home, and when not at work on the farm, devoted him-self assiduously to his studies. For a short time, he was also a student in a German school.
The first marriage of our subject took place September 21, 1851, when Miss Catherine Keehn became his wife. This lady was born in Stark County, and passed from earth after a wedded life of twenty-two years, leaving one daughter, Hannah, Mrs. G. Stump, of Seward County, Neb. June 8, 1884, Mr. Gerber was again united in marriage, his wife being the widow of U. W. Shidler, late of Perry Township. Mrs. Gerber was born in Stark County, June 10, 1833, and was a daughter of David and Susanna (Pence) Rothrock, natives of Pennsylvania. At an early day, they came to Stark County, where the mother died in 1840, and the father in 1886. They were worthy pioneer citizens of Stark County, and were highly es-teemed by all who knew them. Their daughter, by her first union, became the mother of four children, three of whom are now living: Mary, wife of Reuben H. Yutzey; Emma, who married DE. E. Hartzell; and Olive, wife of R. T. Carnahan. Mr. and Mrs. Gerber are prominent members of the German Baptist Church, and are ever active in good works.
MATTHEW B. EXCELL, a journalist of rare ability, is editor of the Weekly Leader at Alliance, one of the best publications of its kind in Stark County. e also fills the responsible position of Mayor of the city, and is one who has demonstrated his ability in worldly affairs, and whose personal character is worthy of commendation. A native of Michigan, he was born in Jackson, July 13, 1869, and later removed with his parents to Cleveland, this State. He was a bright apt scholar, and when nineteen years old was graduated from the high School in Forest City, and later, attending the Mt. Union College, received a diploma from that institution in 1891. While in college, he was employed a part of the time as reporter on the Daily Leader, and in this way was enabled to pay his tuition. in July, 1891, he was appointed city editor of the
382 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Leader•, and upon the consolidation of that paper with the Daily Review, and the sale of the Weekly Leader to T. E. Wilson, Mr. Excell was given the editorial management of the latter paper, which position he filled until June last, being the youngest editor in charge in the State. He has always been of a literary turn of mind, and his taste in that direction developed so rapidly and his talent became so conspicuous, that he has been termed by the people of Stark County the " boy journalist."Mr. Excell socially stands high in the Masonic fraternity, and is well known in public life. Ile is well adapted to journalism, as he brings to his work a clear, well-balanced, well-trained mind; is cool, just and discriminating in his judgment, and does not commit himself rashly to any new theory or scheme without giving it careful consideration. The Weekly Leader was established by Wallace H. Phelps in 1875, and has grown until it now has a circulation of nearly four thousand copies in Stark, Columbiana, Portage and Mahoning Counties. Our subject was elected to his present position as Mayor of Alliance in April, 1892, and is the youngest incumbent of that office which the records show.
JACOB F. SNYDER, of the firm of Hess, Snyder & Co., is a practical machinist and is Superintendent of the machine shop, He is a man of push and energy, and is in all branches of his business thoroughly versed and experienced. He was born in Massillon, Ohio, on the 6th of July, 184.5, and here he passed his youth and received his education. His father, Fred Snyder, is represented in the sketch of George M. Snyder. The original of this notice was reared in his native town and received a liberal education here. After the death of his father, he resided for two years with an uncle on a farm in Perry Township, and then returned to Massilion, where He was employed by Russsell & Co. for eighteen months, working in the machine shops. In 1861, he went to Wooster, Wayne County, and was in the engine works of Barrett & Co., of that place, for one year. In 1864, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Sixty-second Regiment, Ohio National Guards, Company A, and went to Cleveland. There he was transferred and mustered into Company K, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Ohio National Guards, and was sent to Washing-ton, where he was stationed at Ft. Ethan Allen. Later, he was detailed to carry rifles and ammunition down South, and he was atone time within one mile of Mosby's Cavalry, of six hundred men. He remained there until it was safe to go back to the fort. He remained in the service until September, 1864, and then returned to Wooster, where he was engaged with Barrett & Co. until 1868, and became a practical machinist. Thence he went to Canton, and was engaged in the Ball Works, manufacturing reapers, mowers, etc., he being employed in the manufacture of tools for the works, and having charge of one part of it. He remained here until 1871, and then worked for the Canton Saw Works, manufacturing tools for them for some time.
Afterwards, our subject was with different manufactories until 1873, when he came to Massillon and assisted in setting up the machinery in the rolling mill here. About five months later, he re-turned to Canton, was engaged in the Peerless Works again for about three months, after which he was employed as a machinist by Russell it Co., of Massillon. A few months later, he determined to start in business for himself, and erected a machine shop and foundry on North Mill Street, where the Massiilon Ice Plant is now located. He soon had a good busness, and later erected new works with steam power. In 1882, he entered into partnership with Hess Bros., under the firm title of Hess, Snyder & Co., and this is now the second largest enterprise of the kind in the city.
Mr. Snyder has been Superintendent of the machine shop and thoroughly understands every detail of his business. This firm will soon build a four-story brick building, 50xl17 feet, and they have all the improvements for manufacturing hot
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 383
air furnaces, cook and heating stoves, etc., and do a general jobbing business. Mr. Snyder was married in Massillon, in 1867, to Miss Sarah Simmons, a native of this county, and the daughter of Jacob Simmons, a farmer here. Four children have resulted from this union: Wallace E., a graduate of the High School, is shipping clerk for Hess, Snyder & Co.; Estella A. is also a graduate of the High School; Leo G. and Ethel R., both at home. Mr. Snyder is a member of the German Lutheran Church, is Deacon in the same, and was Superintendent of the Sunday school for three years. He was also Secretary and Treasurer of the Sunday-school for one year, and is still holding the latter position. He adheres strictly to the Republican party in his political views.
CAPT. SHEPHERD M. KNAPP, of the firm of Knapp & Dillon, the largest plumbers, gas .and steam titters in Massillon, is a native of this city, having been born March 23, 1835, and is a son of William W. Knapp, a native of Cummington, Mass. The grandfather of our subject, who also bore the name of William, was a farmer in the Bay State, where he lived and died on a farm. His ancestors were of Welsh descent and early settlers of Massachusetts. William Knapp, Sr., was a soldier in the War of 1812, and at hIs death was seventy-two years of age.
The father of our subject was reared to farm pursuits, and when reaching his sixteenth year was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade. Going to New York when attaining his majority, he worked at his trade until taking up his residence in this city. After removing hither, in company with John E. McLean and Squire Everhart], he engaged in the manufacture of threshing-machines, their place of business being located at the corner of North Erie and North Streets. After disposing of his interests in that firm. Mr. Knapp, in company with Daniel Harbaugh, engaged in the grocery business, which partnership was dissolved a year later, and the father of our subject, with a Mr. Haveland, engaged in the manufacture of threshing-machines. In 1843, he went to Ann Arbor, Mich., and was there engaged in the same business until the fall of 1848, when he sold out his interests and returned to Massillon and remained over winter, when he started to California, but died on his way at Ft. Independence, Mo.
The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Harriet Austin, and was a native of Vermont. Her father, Isaac Austin, was also a native of the Green Mountain State and a farmer by occupation. Mr. Austin came overland to this county at an early day, and was engaged in boating on the canal and in developing a farm. He departed this life at Loudonville, this State. The mother of our subject accompanied her parents on their removal hither, and made her home in this city until her decease, in March, 1878, when seventy-two years of age.
Our subject was one in a family of three sons and four daughters, only four of whom are living, and of whom he is the eldest hut one. His brother, W. A., enlisted in 1861 as a member of Company A, Nineteenth Ohio Infantry, and when mustered out, occupied the position of Captain; he is at present residing in Washington, D. C., where for five years he was Chief Clerk in the United States Postoffice Department. He was appointed Adjutant-General of Ohio under Gov. Hayes, which position he held for four years, and was the incumbent of the same office for two years under Gov. Noyes and about six months under Gov. Allen.
Our subject spent the years from ten to twelve in Ann Arbor, after which he went to Massachusetts, where he worked or a farm and attended school in the winter season. In the fall of 1849, he returned to his native town, where he went to school during the winter months, and worked on the farm of J. DE. McLean during the busy season. In the spring of 1852, he again went to Massachusetts, where he spent the summer, and in the fall apprenticed himself to learn the machinist's trade under the firm of E. & T. Ring, of Norwich, that State, spending eighteen months so employed. in the spring of 1854, he cane back
384 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
to Massillon, and was employed in Hart& Brown's shop for one year; then going to Cleveland he was engaged with the Cuyahoga Steam Furnace Co. in that line of work for one year, when again taking up his abode in this city, he entered the employ of Russell & Co. August 9, 1862, he enlisted in the Union army, joining Company E, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry, and was mustered in as Second Lieutenant. With his company he left for Kentucky, and eight days later participated in the battle of Ft. Mitchell. He was taken sick at Mt. Vernon and was sent home on a furlough. After three months, Mr. Knapp rejoined his regiment at Knoxville, Tenn., which place he had much dificulty in reaching safely. He participated in the siege at that point, where he had command of his company. During the winter, he received his appointment as First Lieutenant of another company but did not accept it.
In the spring of 1864, our subject joined Sher-man's army, being mustered into service as First Lieutenant, and commanded his company alone until the fall of Atlanta. e was then transferred to Company B, of the same regiment, of which he was again given command, and after the battle of Nashville was again transferred and placed at Ft. Fisher with his regiment, where he was promoted to be Captain of Company I), and acting in that capacity fought at the battle of Old Town Creek, which gave them possession of Ft. Anderson and the city of Wilmington. With his command, Mr. Knapp went to Goldsboro, from there to Raleigh, and after the surrender of Gen. Johnston, his regiment was ordered to go to Greensboro to receive the surrender of that general. June 17, 1865, he was mustered out of service at Greensboro, and was paid off and received his final discharge at Cleveland, July 3d of that year. On again re-turning to the peaceful pursuits of life, our subject engaged in the machine shops of the Excelsior Works, with which he remained until the fall of 1868. Later, he was in the employ of Russell & Co., with whom he remained until February, 1881, when he established his present business in company with Mr. Dillon.
August 14, 1862, Miss Barbara S. Anderson, a native of Scotland, became the wife of our subject. She came with her parents to this country when a small girl, and was reared to mature years in North Bloomfield, Ohio. The two children born to Mr. and Mrs. Knapp are Anna B., now Mrs. Thornburg, of Boston, Mass., and Harriet, Mrs. Merwin, of this city. Our subject is a member of the Grand Army Post, in which he is Past Senior Vice-commander. He is a stanch Republican in politics, and one of the wide-awake, prosperous business men of this city.
PETER BALMAT. Mr. Balmat is today probably the most influential and esteemed living factor in Louisville, Ohio, and is at 6 present manager of the Empire Clay Company, manufacturers of vitrified salt-glazed building blocks and steps, paving-brick, drain-tile, fire-brick, and all fire-clay products.
Mr. Balmat is a native of Washington Township, Stark County, Ohio, his birth occurring on the 29th of September, 1851. His parents, Michael and Mary F. Balmat. were both natives of France, where they passed their youthful days and were married. As better opportunities were afforded in the United States, they decided to cross the ocean and make their future home in America. The father was a soldier under Napoleon I, and served for some time. n 1847, he made the trip to America, and shortly afterward located in Stark County, Ohio, where he bought an extensive tract of land. Many years were passed in improving and cultivating this land, and it at last became one of the best farms in the county. On this farm, where he had spent the best years of his life, the father of our subject received his final summons in 1878, when eighty-five years of age.
The youthful days of our' subject was passed in assisting his father on the farm, and in receiving a good practical education in the common schools. Being naturally possessed of an active and bright mind, he improved all his spare moments, and when nineteen years of age he began wielding the
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PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 387
ferrule. He became well known as one of the prominent and successful educators, and taught fifteen terms of school. In 1874, he took a course in Iron City Business College, at Pittsburgh, and in 1879 he was appointed Postal Clerk from Pitts-burgh to Indianapolis, also on other lines. While in the postal service, he met Miss Rosa Maudru, a native of Washington Township, Stark County, where she was born on the 19th of February, 1856, and they were married on the 20th of September, 1881.
After leaving the postal service, our subject again resumed teaching, but after continuing this for some time, turned his attention to his present business in April, 1890. This business is the most extensive of the kind in the county, and they have a capacity of three hundred and fifty thous-and bricks per year. In his politics, Mr. Balmat is a Republican, but he has never aspired to office. He is a member of the Holy Catholic Church, and was confirmed at the early age of thirteen. Ho is also a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and is a man who is deeply interested in all measures and enterprises for the upbuilding and improvement of his town and county.
SAMUEL REINODEHL., deceased, played an important part in the development of Stark County as one of its most enterprising, far-seeing and clear-headed farmers. He was born in this county, September 23, 1848, and at his death, which occurred September 5, 1890, had acquired a handsome property, which is located in Tuscarawas Township.
Henry and Susan Reinoehl, the parents of our subject, were natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers of Lawrence Township, the father having been brought hither when a young boy and reared to man's estate in this section. His life calling was that of an agriculturist, and the improvements on his estate rank with the best in this vicinity. Our subject received his primary education in the district schools, which was later supplemented by attendance at Smithville Academy, in Wayne County, this State, and, when starting out in life for himself, brought a cultured, well-trained mind to bear upon the problems that beset the skilled agriculturist, who seeks to till the soil after the best methods, so as to make it produce abundantly without exhausting its natural fertility.
January 4, 1875, Mr. Reinoehl was married to Miss Jennie, daughter of John and Margaret Raber. She was born December 11, 1852, and by her marriage with our subject has become the mother of three children, who bear the respective names of Della M., Vinnie I. and Samuel It. Our subject departed this life September 5, 1890, deeply mourned by his numerous friends. He was liberal in his support of whatever tended to the moral and religious elevation of his community, and was a loyal citizen. He was a Republican in politics, and a firm believer in the superiority of that party's principles and government.
At his death, Mr. Reinoehl left one hundred and sixty acres of land, which, by persistent industry, he had unproved into a good farm, and from which he reaped an income sufficient to keep up the pleasant home in which he resided. Mrs. Reinoehl is a most excellent lady, well educated and refined, and taught school several terms in Wayne and Stark Counties. In closing this record of the life of our subject, we will add that a patient. resolute nature, a keen love of business, accuracy of judgment, together with honesty of purpose and act, were his distinguishing traits, and marked him as a true type of our self-made men.
JOHN B. BISSONNETTE is the Manager of the Fulton Tool and Manufacturing Company, of Canal Fulton, in which he also owns a one-third interest. This is one of the leading industries of the city, and our subject is one of the prominent business men. He was horn six miles from Lyons, France, June 8, 1840,
388 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
and was the seventh in a family of fourteen children, whose parents were J. and Angellique (Dennis) Hissonnette. They were also natives of France and the father was a farmer by occupation. n 1843, the latter emigrated with his family to Canada, locating forty-five miles above Montreal, where he became a large land-owner and a wealthy man. His death occurred in 1848. His wife long survived him and died in Canada in 1886. Of their family of eight sons and six daughters, six sons and two daughters grew to mature years, and three sons and two daughters are yet living.
Our subject was only three years old when his parent* emigrated to America. He remained in Canada until 1854, when, at the age of fourteen years, he started out in life for himself. In the summer he sailed upon the Lakes, and in the winter formed one of the crew in an ocean vessel. In 1858, he was made second mate on the ship " St. Peter," running from New Orleans to France, and held that office for eight months, when he abandoned the sea. Mr. Bissonnette then went to Pittsburgh and for seven months was a bar-tender, but during that time never tasted liquor. He then began clerking in the grocery store of John B. Sneathen, of that place, with whom he remained until June 4, 1861.
In that month, Mr. Bissonnette went to Philadelphia, Pa., for the purpose of joining the United States navy, but there was then no vacancy. He then attempted to enlist in the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry, but was not tall enough, and was afterward again rejected by another Pennsylvania regiment for the same reason. Still anxious to enter the service, he went to Trenton, N. J., and became a member of Company H, First New Jersey Infantry, in which he served for three years, when, at the expiration of his term, he was discharged, June 23, 1864. During one engagement, he was struck by a ball on the left side of his breast but a small Bible in his vest-pocket saved him. Another time, a ball just grazed his face, leaving a mark, and he had several ether narrow escapes.
After his discharge, Mr. Bissonnette returned to Canada, where he remained until the 6th of June, 1865. He then went to Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and took a course in a business college there, and was graduated with second honors in a class of thirty-eight. He was graduated on the same day that President Lincoln was assassinated. Going to Pittsburgh, he secured a position as book-keeper with Jarvis k Co., plumbers and steam-fitters, with whom he remained until 1870, when he bought a half-interest in the brass foundry and finishing works of Mansfield & Company at No. 13 Second Avenue. To that business he devoted his energies until March 18, 1877, when the factory was burned, after which he spent one year with the Anchor Foundry and Machine Company. On account of sickness, he then sold out to Whorton McKnight, who is still carrying on the business. In 1879, he engaged as Manager with Jarvis & G ray, proprietors of a machine and steam-fitting establishment at Pittsburgh, serving as book-keeper and manager until 1883.
On the 1st of April of that year, Mr. Bissounette removed to Canton, Ohio, and in company with A. L. Klaus purchased the Canton Tool Company in July, 1883, removing it to Canal Fulton, when the name was changed to the Fulton Tool and Manufacturing Company. They employ some twenty-eight men and manufacture coal miner's and stone mason's tools. They run fourteen fires, five trip-hammers, and one large hammer run by steam which does all the heavy work. They do all their own forging and buy their steel by the car load. Their work is all finished by hand and each tool bears the " Fulton " stamp. They em-ploy none but the best workmen and as their tools are thus always first-class, they find a ready sale and are shipped to almost every State in the Union. n connection with this business, the firm has lately purchased the business of the Wilson Patent Safety Break and Spregg Company, and will manufacture those implements. They make one hundred and thirty different kinds of picks, for all kinds of coal and stone work, using only the best material, and their annual sales amount to about $54,000.
Mr. Bissonnette is a member and Adjutant of Canal Fulton Post No. 385, G. A. R., also belongs to the Odd Fellows' society, the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Honor. He is one of the most prominent crtizens of Canal Fulton and his busi
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ness is a valued addition to its enterprises. He is a man of most excellent business ability, sagacious and enterprising, and by fair dealing and the application of correct business principles has acquired a handsome competence. He is now acting as Director of the Union School District of Canal Fulton. e was first married, February 3, 1870, to Miss Ellen 51. Smith, of Hamburg, Pa., and by this marriage has three children: Frank .1., Wesley S. and Florence G. Miss Ellen Smith died in 1887. He was married again, June 20, 1889, to Susie Zeller, of Canal Fulton.
JOHN B. WHITMER. This steady-going and reliable citizen is one of those forming the bone and sinew of the community, and has assisted in establishing its financial prosperity and upbuilding the standard of morality. His life occupation has been that of a farmer, in which he has been very successful, accumulating a good property and fortifying himself against the days when, by reason of advancing years, he may be unfitted for active labor. The farm is one of the best in Bethlehem Township, is pleasantly located on section 11, and contains two hundred and eighty-two acres of land. With its well-tilled fields, substantial buildings and general air of plenty, the place is one of the most attractive in the locality.
Our subject, who is a native of this county, was born February 6, 1822, and is the son of Benjamin and Barbara Whitmer, natives of Pennsylvania. The father of our subject emigrated to Stark County in an early day, and located on an unimproved farm in Bethlehem Township. Here he erected a log cabin and resided with his family, enduring many of the hardships incident to a life in an undeveloped country. He succeeded in placing his estate under excellent cultivation, and upon it he was residing at the time of his de-cease in 1851,
One subject, who was reared amid the pioneer scenes in this county, assisted his father in carrying on the farm, and during the winter seasons at-tended school in the log cabin. His advantages, however, were very limited, and he may truly be called self-made. May 4, 1845, he was united in marriage with Miss Martha Reed, whose birth occurred in this county, May 12, 1819. She is the daughter of jacob and Elizabeth (Kaufman) Reed, natives of the Keystone Stale and early residents of this county.
To Mr. and Mrs. Witmer have been born eight children, two of whom are deceased. Those living are: Lovina, Mrs. Samuel Darr; Barbara A., Eli, Samuel, Enos and David. The two deceased are William and George. In 1816, our subject located upon his present farm, where he has resided since that time. As before stated, his estate is a valuable one, and by a proper rotation of crops is made to yield a handsome income.
He of whom we write served nine years as School Director in his drstrict, and as a man of influence and prominence, well deserves representation in this volume, and it is with pleasure that we present his sketch to our readers. He is a stanch Democrat in politics, and takes great interest in everything which concerns his party. He is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, and contributes liberally of his means to the support of the cause. Mr. Whitmer possesses in a marked degree the characteristics of enterprise and industry, which traits, together with the use of sound judgment in business affairs, have brought him success.
CAPT. WILLIAM SMITH WILLIAMS, President and Secretary of the Shale Brick Exchange, of Canton, Ohio, was born near this city, April 23, 1835, and is a son of George and Mary (Smith) Williams. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and became a resident of Stark County in 1816, But few industries were
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open to the early settlers at that date, and his vocation was principally farming and the manufacture of brick. Industrious, honest and enter-prising, he was soon looked upon as a valuable acquisition to the band of pioneers.
Our subject spent the first twenty years of his life on a farm, acquiring his education in the public schools of Canton. When a young man, he served as a Lieutenant in a militia company, called the Canton Light Guards, and was afterward made Captain of the Canton Battery. Possessing a superior mathematical mind, his inclinations only turned to the department of civil engineering and its kindred branches, and while in the High School he paid especial attention to his favorite science. With this preliminary preparation, he fitted him-self for his profession by his own efforts, by private study and by practice in the field. His first engagement was as Assistant Civil Engineer of the southwest branch of the Pacific Railroad, running from St. Louis into the indian Territory. In 1858, he was admitted to the Bar in Ohio, and in Missouri in 1859, having previously read law under the late Judge G. W. Belden, of Canton.
In the spring of 1861, Mr. Williams entered the service of the Government as Lieutenant in an independent battery of artillery, and was engaged in the battles of Scarey Creek and Hawk's Nest in Western Virginia. n November, 1861, he was commissioned by Gov. Dennison to raise another battery, which was known as the Third Ohio Independent Battery, with which Mr. Williams served as Captain, making for himself a highly creditable military record. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Raymond, Champion Hills, siege of Vicksburg, Clinton, Kenesaw Mountain, siege of Atlanta, Legget's Bald Knob, Ezra Church, Jonesboro and Lovejoy Station. For a part of the time he was Chief of Artillery of Gen. Logan's Staff, Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, and subsequently occupied the same position on the staff of Gen. M. D. Legget. After the fall of Atlanta, the artillery of the Seventeenth Corps was formed into a brigade, and Capt. Williams was assigned to the command of it as Chief of Artillery. This brigade comprised all the artillery of the Seventeenth Army Corps, and
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Avenue, is a fine brick residence, surrounded with extensive grounds. The fine lawn is adorned with many native trees, and also with some beautiful pines. Capt. Williams is a gentleman of fine scholarly attainments and occupies a prominent rank among the leading civil engineers of the State. He is thoroughly devoted to his department of industry, and his military and professional record alike entitle him to high regard as a patriot and a citizen.
JOHN W. REINOEHL, who is a veteran of the late war, with an honorable record for bravery and devotion to the cause of his country, won in some of the hardest fought battles in the Rebellion, is a very successful farmer, one of the foremost in his line of business in Tuscarawas Township. He is a native of this county, having been born January 10, 1842, to William and Louisa (Bowman) Reinoehl, natives of Lebanon County, Pa.
The father of our subject, in company with his parents and other members of his family, emigrated to this county in 1831, and located in Lawrence Township, where they continued to reside until 1854. The elder Mr. Reinoehl when arriving here had not much money, but he was well' endowed with the energy, perseverance and capacity for hard work that serves a man oftentimes better than money. In 1854, he came to thrs township, where he was, residing at the time of his decease, which occurred in 1873.
Only two children were comprised in the parental family, our subject and his sister Mary. The former was reared to mature years in this section, and though on the outset subjected to the many inconveniences of opening up a new country, aided his father in clearing up a good farm, which was supplied with good buildings and well-equipped with practical machinery. He received a limited education in the district schools, and al-though never attending college, was of studious habits, and being a close observer, obtained a practical knowledge that has served him to good purpose.
In August, 1862, John W. Reinoehl enlisted in the Union army, becoming a member of Company E, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry, being mustered in as a private, and during his period of service fought under Gens. Gilmore, Burnside and Schofield. He participated in the first battle of Knoxville, and at the fight at Franklin received a fracture of the skull, from which injury he was confined in the hospital for three months. On receiving his honorable discharge at Columbus, in June, 1865, our subject returned home and has since been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Miss Susan Groff, who was born in Lancaster County, Pa., June 7, 1843, became the wife of our subject June 6, 1867. She is the daughter of Benjamin and Anne Groff and to them have been born four children: Emma, Edwin, Ella and Elmer. Mr. Reinoehl has always taken an active interest in school affairs and has been selected to fill the office of School Director for several years. In politics, he casts his vote and influence in favor of Republican candidates, which party he believes to be in the right. He is a conscientious member of the Bretbren-in-Christ Church, and is always ready to do another a kindness and to extend his help and sympathy to all in trouble. His estate, which comprises one hundred and ninety-six acres, is exceedingly fertile land and is provided with well-equipped farm structures that are complete in their arrangements and well stocked with good grades of animals.
DAVID SPONSELLER. The farming inter ests of Canton Township are well represented by this gentleman, who is one of its most skilled and prominent farmers and whose valuable estate is one of the best in the county. The Sponseller family located in this served as such until mustered out in December, 1864. During his whole military career, he distinguished himself as a brave soldier and an excel-lent and intrepid officer. His superior qualifications for the position, together with his gentle-manly bearing and courteous manner, rendered him one of the most popular officers in the corps. He is a member of the society of the Army of the Tennessee, and has been honored with the office of Vice-president. He is also a member of the Military Order of Loyal Legion.
In polities, the Captain is a stanch Republican. Shortly after his return from the army, he was appointed County Surveyor of Stark County, serving one term, and subsequently was City Engineer of Canton for several years. In 1872, he was appointed Resident Civil Engineer of Public Works of the State of Ohio. In the years 1872 and 1873, he was Inspector of Railroads for the State of Ohio, under Commissioner Walcot, and again in 1876 and 1877, under L. G. Delano.
In 1884, Captain Williams began experimenting in the manufacturing of paving brick from shale, the first manufactured west of the Ohio River. The works are located west of the Valley Rail-road. He has energetically prosecuted the work, and his discoveries in the manufacture of paving brick from shale have developed one of Canton's most important industries. The shale brick is of a superior quality, and when vitrified is capable of resisting a greater pressure than granite. In connection with this, Capt. Williams also manfactures a very superior quality of fire brick. The excellence of these two kinds of brick is so well established and the orders come in so fast that it is with difficulty the demand is met. The capacity of the works is over three million bricks annually. Our subject is now President and Secretary of the Shale Brick Exchange, of Canton, and is one of the most prominent and influential business men of the city.
On the 17th of January, 1872, Capt. Williams married Emma, daughter of the late Dr. Frederick Hurxthal, of Massillon, late Sergeant of the Nineteenth Ohio Regiment. They had one son, Frederick, who died at the age of nineteen years. Their home, situated at No, 275 North Cleveland
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and in objects which will tend to increase the prosperity of the country, particularly in that community in which he makes his home, Mr. Sponseller is interested. He has been a member of the Lutheran Church for the past thirty-five years and contributes liberally of his means towards its support.
When the father of our subject came to this county, his worldly possessions consisted of a one-horse wagon, two cows and one cent in money. Where now stands the prosperous city of Canton, were three log houses, and in going thither he used to crawl from log to log to keep from getting wet. Coffee at that time was fifty cents per pound, and the first year his family only used one pound. The nearest market was Cleveland, and after disposing of his grain there he would bring home on the return trip salt, for which two barrels of flour were exchanged, leather, etc.
ROBERT PHERSON. Among all the residents of Stark County, none show greater aptitude for business transactions, or better judgment in the conduct of affairs, than Mr. Pherson, whose home in Sugar Creek Township. His farm comprises two hundred and ninety-six acres of land, on which he has made the improvements which make it one of the attractive and well-regulated estates in the neighborhood. The crops that are best suited to the soil and climate are raised, and also stock of good grades. Mr. Pherson has had an experience of years in the management of agricultural and business affairs, and is well known and respected for the honesty and sincerity of his character, and has the friend-ship of the best men in the community.
Born in this county, November 19, 1837, our subject is a son of Theophilus and Eliza (Tate) Pherson, the father being born in the North of Ireland and the mother in the Keystone State. The former, in 1829, determined to try his fortune in America, and with this end in view set sail for the United States, and after a tedious voyage section as early as 1814, and hence has been closely connected with its history, as will be found by referring to the sketch of Abraham Sponseller, else-where in this volume. Like many of the best residents of this county, our subject was born within its limits, his birth occurring on section 25 of the above township, April 24, 1837. His boyhood was passed on the old homestead and his earliest recollections are of the surrounding pioneer scenes. He remembers seeing deer, turkeys and wolves, and recalls the time when there were no roads here and the settlers crossed the prairies following the trails made by Indians. He obtained his early education in an old log schoolhouse, which was fitted up with slab benches, puncheon floor, stick and clay chimney, and au open fireplace. He remained at home until twenty-three years of age and took care of his parents, he being the youngest of the family. February 14, 1860, Mr. Sponseller and Miss Elizabeth Kropt, who was born in this county, in 1837, were united in marriage. A sketch of her family will be found in the biography of her brother, William Kropt, occupying another page in this work. Of the eight children born to our subject and his wife, we make the following mention: Mary E.; Alice, who married John Rindchen, a carpenter in Canton; Laura A., Mrs. Samuel Swartz, whose husband is a farmer in Osnaburg Township; Ada, the wife of William Kitzmiller, a coal miner in this locality; Cora, Katie, Sonora and William.
After his marriage, our subject farmed the home place, getting one-third of the profits, and later, when providing himself with a team and other necessary implements, was given a one-half share until the death of his father, when be fell heir to the homestead, comprising two hundred and twenty acres of land. He devotes his time to mixed farming and keeps on his place good breeds of cattle, horses and sheep. He is a sensible, practical, efficient man in the discharge of his affairs and in his personality is moral, conscientious and upright. His present neat frame residence was erected in 1875 and the estate is further embellished by a large barn and all the necessary outbuildings, which stamp its owner as a man of progress and enter-prise. In his political views, he is a Republican, landed at his destination. Making his way directly to this county, he worked for a time on the Ohio Canal, and then, being desirous of following the life of an agriculturist, purchased and located upon the farm which our subject now calls his own. e was here married, and became the father of a family of eight children, all of whom are living with but one exception, and who bear the respective names of Jane, Mrs. Rev. W. Thomas; Elizabeth, Mrs. J. M. Trubey, whose sketch appears on another page in this volume; John, Robert, Almina, William and Albert. Mary Ann, Mrs. Jillott, is deceased. He passed through all the hard-ships which the pioneers in this section endured, and at his death, which occurred in February, 1848, left his family nicely situated.
Robert Pherson, of this sketch, retains a vivid recollection of the land when it was scarcely more than a primeval forest. He was the recipient of but limited schooling, as be was obliged to per-form many home duties which are usual to the lot of a farmer boy, and as he lived in the country, bad to walk to school. The first temple of learning was a log structure, having slab benches with pin legs, and all the primitive surroundings of that Day. When ready to establish n home of his own, he was married, February 22, 1859, to Miss Lydia, the daughter of Samuel Hall, of Sugar Creek Township. Of their union, five children were born, only one of whom is deceased. Those living are: Ida, Mrs. Willis Putnam; Mary, the wife of John Gessaker; Clara and Gertie. Ursula died when twenty-three years old. Mr. Pherson started in life a poor man, but by close attention to the affairs he had in hand, and unflagging zeal, he has secured a competence, and is now classed among the well-to-do farmers of the township. He gives his political adherence to the Republican party, and as one of the old residents of the county, has ever taken a warm interest in its development and welfare. For four terms he held the office of Township Trustee, and during his incumbency of that office performed the duties in an entirely satisfactory manner. He is an earnest worker in the United Brethren Church, and has held the position of Trustee in that body. Mr. Pherson possesses that energy and tact which invariably bring success to their owner, and he is adding to his popularity and also to his financial standing each year, and ranks high in the esteem of his community.
DANIEL MEYER, whose sketch now invites attention from the reader, is a self-made man in the most comprehensive meaning of that term, and one who by dint of natural ability and perseverance has raised himself from the bottom to the top round of the ladder of success. His early opportunities were poor indeed, but, as is daily proven, everything is possible to one who possesses strength of character and push, and these Mr. Meyer possesses in a marked degree. He is at present residing on section 10, Bethlehem Township, where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of the latter branch of agriculture. A native of this State, our subject was born in Tuscarawas County, April 22, 1843, to Charles and Catherine Meyer, the former of whom is deceased. The mother of our subject, who is still living, makes her home in Tuscarawas County and is now in her eighty-fifth year. The eleven children born to herself and husband bore the respective names of George, John, Daniel, Jacob, Charles, Henry, Margaret, Mary, Calle D., Catherine and Christina.
Mr. Meyer of this sketch grew to manhood in his native county, and being trained to a thorough knowledge of farm work, has made that his calling. e obtained a fair education in the district school, and although he had not the opportunities offered the youth of to-day, made the best of his advantages and obtained a good knowledge of books. The lady to whom he was married July 17, 1870, bore the name of Mary J. Knappenberger, who was born March 6, 1851, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. To them has been born a family of four children, three of whom are living: Cullen, Lenin, Clinton, and Orin, the latter of whom is deceased.
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In 1874, Mr. Meyer came to Stark County, with whose interests he has since been actively identified and now ranks among its most prosperous citizens. His pleasant estate comprises one hundred and fifty-seven and three-fourths acres of valuable land, upon which are to be found the latest improvements in the way of buildings and machinery. He is now serving as Clerk of the School Board of his district, and in his political relations is a stanch member of the Democratic party. He is a man of sensible views, sound common-sense and industrious habits, which is perhaps the secret of his present high standing in the community. Religiously, he is a member of the German Reformed Church.
JOHN MCWHINNEY, When a man is known to have experienced many trials,and to have labored hard to make his way in the world, it is a source of gratification to his friends to know that he has succeeded in reaching a height that enables him to take life very easy. This is the case with the gentleman above named, whose ability to make money has been abundantly illustrated, and whose career should encourage others to renewed energy, as it is not luck, but pluck, that has brought him a competency. He fought bravely during the late war as a soldier in the Army of the Cumberland, and is now numbered among the prominent tillers of the soil in Sugar Creek Township.
Our subject is a native of this county, his birth having occurred June 13, 1835. His parents were John and Nancy McWhinney, the former a native of the North of Ireland, while the latter was born in Pennsylvania. John McWhinney, Sr., emigrated when a young man to the United States, and in 1829 came to this county and made a settlement on the farm where our subject now lives. He located with his family on this tract of land, making a home in a rude log cabin, while he worked with persistence to place his land under cultivation and supply his home with comforts. By his marriage with Miss Nancy Wholf, he be-came the father of five children, of whom three are living, viz.: Mary J., the widow of John Welty; Margaret, the widow of Christian Kaylor, and our subject. The husband and father departed this life in 1863. His earnest character, benevolent disposition and kind heart endeared him to all whom he met, but his loss fell heaviest on her by whose side he had walked for many years, and to whose interests he was devoted.
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civil record is highly honorable, and we are pleased to give this brief pen picture of it in this work.
The gentleman of whom we write has taken an active part in the meetings of the United Brethren Church, of which he is a member, and has served for some time as Trustee, Steward and Class-leader of that body. Socially, he is a Grand Army man, a prominent Mason and a member of the Knights of Pythias. He is a typical repre sentative of the progressive agriculturists, and by his integrity and unimpeachable character enjoys the full confidence of the people. He carries on mixed farming and manages his affairs so well that, though he began life with limited means, he now occupies a front rank among the farmers of this county.
ISAAC KAUFFMAN is a fine representative of our self-made, self-educated men, and the work he has accomplished has placed him among the well-to-do, intelligent farmers who have borne so prominent a part in building up the State of Ohio. He is at present residing on section 1, Bethlehem Township, where he has a good estate, and in addition to cultivating the soil, is engaged extensively in stock-raising.
Like many of the best citizens of this section, our subject was born in Somerset County, Pa., February 21, 1847, and is a son of Isaac Kauffman, also a native of the Keystone State. His great-grandfather, who was a native of Switzer-land, came to America in 1684. Isaac Kauffman, who was a well-known and honored resident of his native place, died in 1886.
He of whom we write was reared to farm pursuits, which occupation he has made his life calling, and an account of his successful career to those who peruse this biography may afford encouragement to many young men who are just starting out in life with no other capital than an enterprising and persevering spirit and a good capacity for steady labor. Mr. Kauffman is a man of good, sturdy, common sense, rare judgment and fine business tact. He is well-informed, having been a great reader all his life, and from books and observation has obtained a good practical education.
Our subject came to this county in 1867, and began working out by the month on farms, receiving as remuneration for his labors *20 per month for about eight mouths in the year. He was thus employed for about eight years, and when ready to establish a home of his own was married, in October, 1873, to Miss Sarah, daughter of Samuel Masters of this county. To them have been born two children, Clara DE., who was born December 21, 1874, and Laura E., who was born May 31, 1878.
Mr. Kauffman of this sketch is the owner of one hundred and four acres of land which his industry has placed under excellent cultivation, and from which he reaps a handsome income. n his political relations, he votes with the Republican party, and is in favor of all measures which are intended to improve the county and elevate society. He has always been active in school affairs, and for two years served as a member of the Township Board.
September 4, 1864, our subject enlisted in the Union army and became a member of Company K, Two Hundred and Sixth Pennsylvania Infantry, being mustered in as a private. He saw much active service as a member of the Army of the James, which was under the command of Gen. Butler. Upon receiving his honorable discharge, June 26, 1865, Mr. Koffman returned home and has since been engaged in cultivating the soil. Socially, he is a member of the Grand Army post at Navarre, and as a member of Miller Post No. 270 served as Quartermaster-Sergeant.
LEVI STUMP. Few, if any, of the residents of of Stark County have been citizens thereof for a longer period of time than he of whom we give this biographical sketch. For many years he resided here as an interested
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a proper stopping-place in the unbroken forest, on the borders of civilization, there being a laud office at Steubenville, in Jefferson County, he entered at that office the southeast quarter of section 28,in the 9th range, in 1806, three years before the county was organized, and eight years previous to the organization of the township, on which quarter-section Dr. James Leeper now resides; the southeast quarter of section 27, in the same range, he purchased of James F. Leonard, who had obtained it by entry at the land office. At that time there was but one cabin where is now the populous and growing city of Canton, and that was known as Cruson's Tavern. On the 28th of April, 1808, he brought his family into the township. Then there were but few houses in Canton, and but three white families resident upon the territory now embraced within the township lines. Indians were abundant, but peaceable. He paid $18 for the first barrel of flour, and $22 for the first barrel of salt, he used in the family, both of which were brought up the Muskingum and Tuscarawas Rivers in canoes. Pittsburgh and Steubenville were the nearest market places for trade and milling, and Mr. Stump thought it a privilege when, fifteen years later, a market was opened at Cleveland, and he could, with a four-horse load of wheat, obtain a side of sole leather and a barrel of salt to "even up." For weeks he and his family lived on potatoes, relying on the "shadowy future" as an ear-nest of better times.
Politically, Frederick Stump was a Democrat. By a comparison of dates, it will be seen that his political character was formed during the bitter contest that at last resulted in the election of Jefferson over Burr, by the United States House of Representatives in 1801, and he became a voter in the second year of Jefferson's administration. The political principles he then espoused, he clung to during his entire life. It may well be said of him: "He was a Democrat of Democrats, brought up at the feet of the political Gamaliel of that era, who proclaimed that all men were created equal, and endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." His religious ideas were in unity with the Reformed Church, of which he be-
398 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
witness of the advancement and growth of the county, which has been transformed by the energetic pioneers and their descendants so as to bear not the slightest resemblance to the original dreary and unoccupied tract of land.
Mr. Stump was born April 29, 1825, to Frederick and Margaret Stump, who were ranked among the old settlers of Stark County, this State. On the organization of Stark County, in 1809, the territory on which Mr. Stump then resided was included in Canton Township, where it remained until 1814, when Mr. Stump, Sr., aided in organizing the new township of Perry. The subject of this sketch, like Hamlet, might well claim that he was a native and "to the manor born," a distinction of which he might well be proud; he was one of a family of eleven children, all of whom were natives of the same township, except the eldest, Daniel Stump, who is now deceased, and who resided at Columbus, Franklin County. During his residence in Stark County, the latter was a merchant and Justice of the Peace in Bethlehem Township. The family of Frederick Stump, besides Daniel, were Catherine, who was married to Samuel Smith, of Canton Town-ship, a widow; Eve, who was married to Barnabas Allman, of the adjoining township of Bethlehem, now also a widow; Frederick, a minister of the Reformed Church, now deceased; Adam, also a minister of the same church, and also deceased; Elizabeth, who married Adam H. Baughman, is a widow, residing in Perry Township, Stark County; Louis, also deceased; William, who was a minister of the Reformed Church, now deceased; and one other son, who died in infancy.
A brief sketch of the elder Mr. Stump will not be deemed out of place here, as he was one of the sturdy pioneers, the recollections of whom furnish the straggling beams of history that serve "to point the moral and adorn the tale" of Perry Township's early organization. He was born on the 7th of June, 1781, in Bethel Township, Berks County, Pa., in the stormy period of the Revolution, and, with his parents, when quite young, re-moved West to Letterkeney Township, in Franklin County, and married there in 1806. After his marriage, he came to Stark County, prospecting for a home site. When he arrived at 'what he regarded as came a member in early life, and continued until his death; he was life-long prominent in the affairs of the township, and it may well be said of him, he aided essentially in causing "the wilderness to blossom as the rose."
Levi, the son, subject of this sketch, was married to Miss Margaret Roush, also a native of Perry Township, on the 19th of March, 1847. She was the daughter of Frederick and Anna Maria (Haflegh) Roush, natives of Dauphin County, Pa., who emigrated to Perry Township in the year 1828. They were of the sturdy Pennsylvania-Dutch element, to which the whole county of Stark is so much indebted for its prosperity. Mr. and Mrs. Levi Stump became the parents of thirteen children: Victoria O.; Gassendi married to Hannah Gerber; Frederick W., a minister of the Reformed Church; Anna M., married to Charles Kocher; Ada A.; Levi 13., married to Melissa Hildreth; Margaret 1., James O., Ira E., Samuel O. (deceased), Rosa C., Margie V. and Benjamin F. Squire Stump, in his political tendencies was a Democrat, but not an "ultra-Democrat." In religion, he was a member of the Reformed Church. "These things he had kept from his youth up." He served the township as Justice of the Peace, for twenty years has held the office of Notary Public; and as a dratisman of deeds, mortgages, etc., he served his neighbors on all occasions when called upon. He was, however, at the head of his profession as a farmer, horticulturist and pomologist, being the first in Perry Township to make small fruits a specialty, and in this he was eminently successful. He served as Vice-president and Director of the Stark County Agricultural Society for sixteen years, and at his death was President of the County Horticultural Society. His life of industry and careful study of his profession, together with prudent economy, brought him a competence which enabled him to live in elegant style, and as a gentleman farmer took rank among Stark County's best.
Mr. Stump at his death left an estate of one hundred and sixty-seven acres of laud, which is well-improved with first-class buildings of every description and all the appliances for carrying on a first-class estate. He departed this life May 19, 1883, and was greatly mourned by a host of warm friends. He was a prominent member of the Re-formed Church, in which denomination he filled the position of Deacon and Elder. He was very liberal in his contributions toward its support, and took an active part in all good works. Mrs. Stump is also a member of the Reformed Church, and spends her time in doing good to others. She shows a splendid judgment in the control and management of her property, and while possessing rare executive ability, also has those pleasant social qualities which give her a high place in society.
GEORGE W. TRUMP, a retired farmer, residing at No. 89 East Third Street, Canton, was born on the 8th of October, 1846, in Stark County, and is a son of George J. and Rachel (Weaver) Trump, who were also natives of this county. The grandfather, John Trump, was born in Pennsylvania, and became a pioneer of this community in 1806. The following year, George J. was born, January 4, 1807. In 1829, he married Rachel Weaver, who was born March 20, 1810, and was the youngest of four sons and six daughters. Her parents, Valentine and Elizabeth Weaver, were both born near Hagerstown, Md., and at a very early date they started in wagons for Ohio, camping out along the wayside at night. They endured all the hardships and privations incident to the settling up of a new country, and the Indians were their neighbors. They easily secured deer and honey, which they exchanged for powder and lead in those early days. The parents of Mrs. Trump were interred in a private burial-ground on the old farm. In her girlhood days, the mother of our subject learned to spin, weave and sew and do general housework and also attended the district schools. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Trump located on a farm near Canton, two and one-half miles east of the city, where the former carried on general