450 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY this township and which has since proved eminently satisfactory. Among thefraternal organizations with which he is affiliated are the Junior Order of United American Mechanics and the Knights of Maccabees. His political faith is that of the republican party and while he is not an active politician he takes sufficient interest in public affairs to keep himself well informed regarding paramount issues and regularly casts his vote for the candidates of his party. He is a man who is in every respect aggressive and his industry and high moral character merit the confidence and respect of his neighbors. . In an analyzation of the life record of any individual it is usually found that certain pronounced characteristics and qualities bring him prominently before the public. In a review of the life record of Mr. Yearick one cannot fail to be impressed with the fact that it was because of a friendly nature and appreciation on his part of the good qualities in others, and his deference for the opinions of those whom he met that Mr. Yearick was so universally esteemed and respected. He made friends wherever he went and thus his death was the occasion of deep and wide spread regret when he passed away. He was born in Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania, August 11, 1829, a son of Peter and Katharine (Guetelius) Yearick. He was a little lad of ten years when his parents came to Ashland county, where both spent their remaining days. Here the son was reared to manhood, attending the public schools. The family home during his youthful days was at Red Haw, Ashland county, and at the age of twelve years he was apprenticed to a turner and painter, under whom he mastered the business. He afterward worked at his trade in Ashland county, in western Ohio and in eastern Indiana until 1855 and in the latter year returned to this county where he embarked in business as a furniture dealer. The following year, however, he suffered a heavy loss by fire. He resumed operations in that line and continued in the trade until 1860 when he sold out to Colonel J. D. Stubbs. The following year, 1861, Mr. Yearick responded to the country's call, enlisting as a member of the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and became a recruiting officer. After the close of the war he established a loan agency in Ashland and conducted the business until 1869, when he was elected county treasurer on the democratic ticket. He was a stalwart supporter of that party, believing that its platform contained the best elements of good government, and during campaigns he used his aid and influence to further the principles of the democracy. He continued in the office of county treasurer from 1870 until 1874 and made an excellent record as a custodian of the public funds. On his retirement from official life he resumed the loan business, and later branched out into other fields in the establishment of a livery business in partnership with Nelson Thomas. From that time until his death he devoted his energies to both enterprises and was sole proprietor of the livery stable for some years, having bought out his partner's interest. As a loan agent he was very successful, doing a big business in negotiating and placing loans, having HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 451 among his clients many of the best known people of the county. In all of his business relations he was thoroughly reliable and his spirit of enterprise, combined with unfaltering industry won him his prosperity. On the 17th of December, 1889, Mr. Yearick was married in Hartford, Connecticut, to Miss Carrie Maude Hamilton, a daughter of Thomas S. and Maria E. (Terry) Harnilton, both of whom are now deceased. They were the parents of seven children of whom three are yet living: Mrs. M. A. Rose and Thomas S. Hamilton, who are residents of Connecticut; and Mrs. Yeariek, of this review. By her marriage she has one son, Leo G., who was born January 20, 1891, and who manifests the utmost filial love and devotion to his mother. He is a graduate of the Ashland high school and is now filling the position of message clerk in the senate at Columbus. Mrs. Yearick is a member of the Presbyterian church and enjoys the friendship,and warm regard of many who know her. She now owns a fine residence on Claremont avenue and also the livery barn in the city of Ashland. Mr. Yearick belonged to Mohiean lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. P., of Ashland, and was popular among his brethren of that fraternity. His death occurred August 3, 1898. He had long been accounted one of the leading citizens of Ashland county. He had a distinctive air that marked him as a gentleman of unfailing courtesy and easy and cordial address. His business interests brought him wide acquaintance, while his attractive social qualities won him warm friends, not only in Ashland, but also throughout adjoining counties. He was cordial and genial in nature, possessed of grace of manner and a spirit of friendliness, which were well calculated to retain the friendship of all with whom he came in contact. He was a man of fine physique and striking personal appearance and the substantial and sterling qualities of his character enabled him to retain his hold upon the affections of his colleagus and associates. LEONIDAS S. SHEARER. Leonidas S. Shearer is engaged in the cultivation of a farm of two hundred and sixteen acres on which he has made his home since 1882. He was born about one and one-half miles from this place in Clinton township, Wayne countv. Ohio. June 5, 1834. His entire life has been passed in this neighborhood with the exception of about four and a half years, and he has therefore long been a witness of the development and progress of the county. His parents were John and Mahala (Webster) Shearer, the former porn in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, May 11, 1811, while the mother was born in Vermont, May 15, 1815. John Shearer came to Ohio with his parents in 1822 when a lad of eleven years. He was a son of Peter Shearer, whose family numbered four children: Katharine, who became the wife of Joseph Whitford; John; Samuel; and Peter. On the homestead farm which his father secured John Shearer was reared to manhood and his entire life was devoted to general agricultural pursuits. Both he and his wife died on the farm where the birth of our 452 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY subject occurred, the date of his death being May 20, 1876, while his wife died in July, 1880. She bad come from Verrnont to Ohio about 1817 and settled in what is now Lake township, Ashland county, where Mr. and Mrs. Webster spent their remaining days. He was considered one of the wealthy men of the locality Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shearer were born five children: Leonidas S.; Ashel W., who was an auctioneer and farmer and who is now deceased; Louisa D,, the deceased wife of Frederick Kelser; John P., who was formerly a farmer of Lake township, but is now living in Akron, Ohio; and Joseph W., who resides on the old homestead in Wayne county. Leonidas S. Shearer was reared under the parental roof and early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agiculturist. He has always lived in the locality where he yet makes his home, save for a period of four and a half years immediately following the Civil war, which he spent in Kendallville, Noble county, Indiana. His education was acquired in the common schools and he afterward engaged in teaching for seven winter terms. Most of his life has been devoted to the general work of the farm, but for a time he also engaged in dealing in garden products and in conducting a grocery business. He has resided on his present farm since 1882 and he and his wife own together two hundred and sixteen acres of rich and valuable land on section 22, Lake township, on which are two sets of good buildings, one set of which was erected by Mr. Shearer. The place presents a most attractive appearance for an air of neatness and thrift pervades it in every department, and the fields the spring and summer nionths promise rich harvests in the autumn. He is practical in all of his methods and is imbued with a progressive spirit inhis work. Round lake is situated on his farm, a beautiful little body of water to which people frequently make excursions in the summer for an outing. Mr. Shearer has been married twice. Tn 1856 he wedded Martha Stewart and unto them were born three children, who died in early life. On the 26th of September, 1882, Mr. Shearer wedded Sarah J. Metcalf, who was born in Lake township near her present home, which was once the property of her father. She is a daughter of Allen and Mary (Goudy) Metcalf, and her birth occurred May 24, 1846. Mr. and Mrs. Shearer are consistent members of the Baptist church of Loudonville, and his political allegiance is given to the republican party, but he does not seek nor desire office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs, the capable management of whirl have brought to him most gratifying success. STEPHEN BARRICK. Stephen Barrick represented the business interests of Orange township as a farmer and carpenter. He was born August 16. 1826, in Columbiana county Ohio, and was a son of George and Sarah (Wolfe) Barriek. His father was a farmer by occupation and in 1824 came to Ohio. After a few years he settled in Troy township and gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits through- HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 455 out his remaining days. He died in 1887, at the venerable age of eighty-four years, while his wife passed away in 1893. Stephen Barrick was reared to manhood on the home farm, aiding in the labors of the fields through the summer months while in the public schools he acquired his early education. He afterward learned the carpenter's trade and followed that pursuit in connection with general farming. His life was one of intense and well directed activity in which he had few leisure moments. His time was always well employed and his labors brought him a substantial profit so that he always had not only the necessities but many of the comforts of life. On the 17th of January, 1850, he was married to Miss Catherine Chilcoat, whose death occurred February 16, 1866. On the 5th of December, 1867, Mr. Barrick was united in marriage to Miss Martha A. Chilcoat, a sister of his first wife and a daughter of Elisha and Martha (Tucker) Chilcoat, the former a native of Bedford county, Pennsylvania, born June 26, 1790. Having arrived at years of maturity the father was married in Ashland county, Ohio, in 1819. to Miss Tucker, whose birth occurred in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in April, 1803. They became the parents of five children, John, Margaret, Catherine, Rachel and Martha. The father was a farmer who devoted his entire life to tilling the soil, carrying on the work of the fields until his labors were ended in death on the 12th of March, 1854. His wife continued to reside in Orange township for many years, passing away on the 8th of May, 1884. Their daughter Martha, when a young lady, engaged in teaching school, following that profession for thirteen years. She capably conducted the schools where she was employed and thus was a factor in the early intellectual progress of the county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Barrick has been born one son, George W., who is now living with his mother on the old home farm. He is a man of affairs, enterprising and successful in his business interests, and is now the owner of considerable property. His integrity and true worth have gained him the unqualified respect and confidence of all with whom he has been associated. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Barrick began their domestic life upon a farm in Orange township where Mrs. Barrick now resides. In addition to tilling the fields, Mr. Barrick also worked at the carpenter's trade. As his son advanced in years and strength he largely assumed the work of the farm and in addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he became a large producer of sugar and syrup, having eleven hundred maples upon his place. The old homestead is a valuable property, constituting one of the attractive features of the landscape. Mr. Barriek was not only active in business but also a factor in the public affairs of the community. He was frequently called upon for office by the vote of his fellow townsmen who recognized his worth and ability. He acted for many years as assessor and was chosen county commissioner in 1875, for a three years' term, at the expiration of which he was again called to that office, so that his incumbency covered six years and was characterized by the utmost fidelity to duty. No trust reposed in him was ever betrayed in the slightest degree and his life was all that was exemplary of a progressive and public-spirited citizenship. In politics he was a democrat who regarded the platform 456 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY of the party as the exponent of the best principles of good government. Both he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Polk, and in the various departments of the church work he was interested and to its support contributed generously. He died in that faith on the 10th of May, 1895, when in the sixty-ninth year of his age, and his remains were interred at Nankin. His personal worth, his loyalty and progressiveness in citizenship and his faithfulness in friendship were such that the community mourned his loss, knowing that one of the very best citizens had passed from this life. C. W. LANDIS. C. W. Landis, who conducts one of the largest grocery enterprises in this county, his place of business being located in Ashland, descends from three German families, the members of which are prominent in various parts of the United States. Judge Landis, of Chicago, Illinois, noted for his famous decision in relation to the Standard Oil Company, being a descendant of that part of the family originally from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, is his third cousin. His father, Samuel Landis, was a native of the Keystone state, where he was born in 1798. In 1828 he left Pennsylvania, locating in Richland county, Ohio, where he purchased a farm containing one hundred and sixty-six acres, which was then overgrown with timber, Being a man of strong constitution and great ambition, by the application of his energy he soon cleared off the land and had it under cultivation, He was the first man to grow barley in Richland county and it is thought that to him is to be accredited the honor of being the first barley grower in the state of Ohio. While he made a specialty of that grain he also produced large quantities of wheat and oats and became known throughout the county for the quality as well as the quantity of his crops. As to his personal habits, he was modest, his conduct being upright and in every sense commendable; a man noted for his compassion and also for his charity; possessed of the noblest qualities of the human character. His geniality made him friends of all with whom he associated, and it is said of him that he departed this life without leaving an enemy. Throughout his career he maintained a high degree of health, having been noted for his strength and vigor, and up until his eighty-second year he had never needed the services of a physicican At that advanced age he contracted pneumonia which, after two weeks illness, caused his death. His wife was Mary Brubaker, whose birth occurred in the Keystone state in 1824, and her death here in 1900, and by her he. had three children : Susanna Landis Redding; Maria Landis Hiller; and Charles Wesley. Charles Wesley Landis was born in Richland county, Ohio, February 12, 1866, and spent his boyhood days in the pursuit of agriculture with his father, in the meantime acquiring his preliminary education at the district schools, and subsequently pursuing a course of study at the schools of Ashland, this county, to which he removed on the let of April, 1.882. On September 21, of that year, he engaged as a clerk in the grocery establishment of Poag & Brubaker, in whose employ he continued until 1894, in the meantime becoming HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 457 familiar with the business and making himself an indispensable factor in the life of the firm. During that year he purchased a third interest in the enterprise, in 1898 became half owner and in 1905 sole proprietor of the business. With the exception of a few hundred dollars Mr. Landis has accumulated his fortune through his own energy and business ability and is now at the head of the largest grocery enterprise in the village of Ashland. His patronage has steadily increased since he assumed fill management and his trade amounts to forty-three thousand dollars annually. He takes great pride in his store, being solicitous at all times to handle only the very best commodities and particularly to please his patrons, and it is his consideration for the wishes of his customers, as well as to his careful business management, that much of his success is due. Aside from the grocery business he is connected with a number of other concerns and is vice president of the Reliable Match Company and director of the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company, and is one of three who own the patents of the United States cement block machine and the Unted States cement mixer, which are built by the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company. On February 18, 1891, Mr. Landis wedded Miss Flora Jeannette Saal, who recived her education in the public schools of Wooster, Ohio, and by whom he has three children, namely: Mary Aleen, whose birth occurred September 4, 1895; Lucile Jeannette, born December 10, 1899; and John Wesley, born September 6,1906. The two older are pupils in the public schools of Ashland and it is the purpose of the parents to send them to the hither educational institutions. Politcaliy Mr. Landis votes with the democratic party, belongs to every branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which he is a trustee, and also to the tribe of Ben Hur. He is an enthusiastic church worker and for the past ten years has been a deacon in the Lutheran church in which he holds membership. Mr. Landis is also connected with the Building & Loan Association in the capacity of a director, and also serves in that position as a member of the Ashland Commercial Club which was organized recently. Influential in the financial affairs of Ashland county, Mr. Landis is one of the most beneficial factors in the business circles of the city where he is noted for his strong character and integrity. ALVIN CRITTENDEN. Alvin Crittenden is proprietor of an extensive stock farm in Ruggles township, on which he engages in breeding thoroughbred Delaine sheep and is considered an authority on stock raising. He was here born October 1, 1855, a son of Medad and Sarah (Sutherland) Crittenden, both of whom removed westward from New York state in 1836, first settling on land now within the limits of the city of Chicago. Illinois, where he owned six hundred and forty acres of land. This he sold upon becoming dissatisfied with the place and located in Ruggles township. Ashland county. to which his wife's parents. Ebenezer and Sarah (Niffin) Sutherland, had preceded them. The Sutherland family were among 458 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY the early pioneers and they took up extensive claims, their land being denominated as the Sutherland survey. The country was at the time largely a forest tract and their first residence was a log cabin constructed out of timber which they had hewn and dressed. The grandfather of the subject of this review and his father were extensive landowners here and together with the Sutherlands were among the most prominent, prosperous and influential families of the early days, while their descendants are still among the representative resident of this community. Medad Crittenden, father of him whose name heads this review, owned large tracts of land in Ruggles township on which he engaged in general farming making a specialty of stock raising. Sheep breeding particularly commanded his attention and his flocks frequently numbered one thousand head. In the raising of sheep he became well known and was acknowledged to be one of the most successful stock men in this part of the county. After a useful and prosperous career he entered into rest in July, 1876, his wife having preceded him into the great beyond in February of the same year. They reared ten children, nine of whom attained maturity and eight of whom now survive, namely: Inner, who sacrificed his life in the Union army during the Civil war; Phoebe J.. who became the wife of Columbus Beech; Mary, the wife of Henry Fast; Charles; Henry; Orlando; Medad; Sarah, wife of Miles Beeeh; Ella, who is wedded to James Edwards; and Alvin. On his father's farm Alvin Crittenden spent his boyhood days, engaging in general agricultural work and in the care of stock, in the meantime availing himself of the educational advantages of the district schools and subsequently pursuing a course of study in a, private institution. Upon his father's farm he remained until he was married, when he removed to Troy township. engaging in farming there until 1882, when he settled upon his present farm, which contains four hundred and fifty-six acres of the finest land which can be found in this state. Here he carries on general agricultural pursuits extensively and deals in all kinds of stock on a large scale. His farm is modern in all its departments, is kept constantly in a high state of cultivation and being, thoroughly drained by the finest tile system and having substantial buildings, together with other conveniences necessary to agriculture and stock raising, it is unsurpassed by any farm in this part of the country. For some years Mr. Crittenden paid much attention to raising and breeding thoroughbred cattle and in 1886 he began to handle thoroughbred Delaine sheep, in which business he has met with remarkable success and for many years has been recognized as one of the leading sheep breeders in the United States, his flocks usually numbering in the neighborhood of five hundred head, every one of which is registered and raised solely for breeding purposes. Annually he ships many to every state in the Union and he has even sent large flocks as far as South Africa. He has exhibited specimens of his flocks at the state and district fairs and also at the World's Fair and in every instance has succeeded in taking first place among his competitors. He sells his sheep anywhere from ten to five hundred dollars a head. His premises are known as the Cherry Home Sheep Farm. The buildings are modern in construction and everything about the farm is in excellent shape with ample room to accommodate all his stock during the winter HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 459 season and with running water in every building. His residence is one of the most conspicuous features of his premises, being one of the finest in this part of the state and provided with every convenience commonly found in the most modern homes. There also may be found an atmosphere of refinement and a degree of hospitality which is seldom equaled. On February 7, 1877, Mr. Crittenden wedded Miss Ida E. Ford, daughter of Laban and Sarah (Pollock) Ford, her father being a prominent farmer of Ashland county, who passed away some years ago while her mother still survives. Mr. and Mrs. Crittenden have one daughter, Sarah A., who became the wife of Jay Ringle, who is associated with her father in farming. They have one daughter, Elizabeth. Mr. Crittenden and his family are members of the Congregational church of Ruggles township, in the affairs of which he is a leading factor. A republican in polities, he does all he can during campaigns to effect the success of his party, at the same time exerting considerable interest in local affairs. He favors public improvements and supports all movements aiming at the betterment of the community, the financial worth of which he has greatly enhanced by his industry and enterprise, and he is among the honorable and substantial citizens of the township. IRVIN C. SMITH Irvin C. Smith, engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock raising in Troy township, was born here October 10, 1863, his parents being Samuel and Mary (Murray) Smith, both of whore reside on a farm where his father has all his day's been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Irvin C. Smith was reared amid the environment of agricultural life on his father's farm, where he became familiar with the various departments of the art of husbandry and also with stock breeding. During the short winter terms he attended the village schools where he obtained his education, remaining upon the home farm until he was united in marriage. He then pursued agriculture in Ruggles township for nine years and in the operation of an extensive farm was successful. At the expiration of that period he purchased his present excellent tract of land and here he has since been following this occupation. The fields he now cultivates are among the very best in this part of the county and Mr. Smith, being a man who takes pride in his premises and particularly in the art of husbandry, desiring to pursue his occupation upon the most advanced methods, has made every improvement by way of drainage and other accessories to make his farm one of the very best for the production of general crops and also for stock raising. His residence is of model architecture and equipped with every convenience requisite to make farm life easy. His barn and other outbuildings are also substantial, his premises throughout being in every particular suggestive of thrift and of the progressive spirit of the owner. Mr. Smith has made special study of soils so that he might be able to conserve their nutritive elements and he has been so successful in arranging the rotation of his crops and their adaptation to the soil that he has annually 460 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY been able to derive, as a rule, the maximum yield per acre, his crops not only bcing exceptional in quantity but also in quality. He takes a considerable interest in stock raising, handling only thoroughbred cattle, sheep and hogs, and doing a remunerative buying and shipping business. On March 6, 1892, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Smith, daughter of John and Rebecca (Fitterhoof) Smith. Her father, now deceased was influential in public affairs. Her mother still survives in the enjoyment of it remarkable measure of health and strength. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born two children, Treva M. and Mildred G. In national and state politics Mr. Smith is a democrat but when it comes to county and local affairs he takes an independent stand, considering the man rather than the party to which he belongs and casting his vote for such candidates as in his judgment are best qualified to serve in the offices they seek, Being strong in public spirit, he is an agitator in improvements, particularly favoring all measures designed to secure better roads, a higher school system and finer public buildings and, through his efforts, much has been done in these directions. For eight years he has been a member of the Troy central district school board. of which he was president, and is now serving his fourth year as a member of the board of township trustees, which strongly testifies to his executive ability and his usefulness as a public official. He is affiliated with Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I.O.O.F., in which he has passed all the chairs, being at present vice counsellor. He also belongs to the Junior Order of American Mechanics. While his business affairs command a great deal of his attention, as do also the social organizations to which he belongs, yet he does not forget his religious obligations, considering them first and foremost and he is a faithful adherent of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife is also a member, and for many years he has served efficiently as class leader of this organization, his wife also taking a profound and active interest in its Sunday school work. Mr. Smith, being a man of upright character, who has always exhibited that degree of industry and enterprise necessary to enhance the general welfare of the community. has ever been hold in high respect by his neighbors and well deserves being numbered among the worthy and substantial citizens of the township. DAVID F. BRUBAKER. The name Brubaker is well known throughout this county, both in agricultural and financial circles, members of the family having lived here for upwards of a century. David Brubaker, grandfather of the subject of this review, came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. to this county in 1832, and here settled down in the enjoyment of retired life. He had been twice united in marriage, having had eight sons by his first wife and two by his second. John Brubaker, who was the eldest son of the first marriage, came to this county in 1826, when he was in his thirty-fourth year, in company with his wife and family, and entered a farm located four and one-half miles south of the HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 461 village Ashland, the tract of land consisting of eighty acres, all of which was thickly covered with timber. He lived in a covered wagon until he had dressed logs with which to construct a cabin, this work requiring several weeks. He finally succeeded in clearing off the land and spent the remainder of his days here he pursuit of agriculture. He was born in 1792, in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, where he wedded Miss Katherine Dissinger. He served in the war of 1812 and after locating here pursued general farming until 1845, during which year he sustained an injury which unfitted him for hard work, but fortunately, being a shoemaker by trade, he had recourse to that occupation by which to earn a living, and he continued it until he acquired sufficient means enable him to live in retirement. His death occurred in the year 1869. Like all the pioneers of his day, he had but meager educational advantages, being possessed, however, of industry and perseverance, which were of greater which in those days than the learning of the schools, and by faithful and patient application he succeeded in gaining a comfortable competence. He reared a family of five sons and three daughters, all of whom acquired a fair education in the district schools, among whom were: Joseph, who passed away in his fifty-eighth year; Henry, who was fifty-nine years of age when he departed this life; John, who lost his life while serving his country during the Civil war, his remains being interred in the Chattanooga cemetery; Katherine Brubaker Heckman; David F.; and Jacob. Henry was given the advantage of a higher education, having graduated from Oberlin, and beginning the practice of medicine in Mansfield, Ohio, he subsequently removed to Iowa and thence to Memphis, Tennessee, and when the Civil war broke out he located in Indianapolis. Indiana, where he became prominent in his profession. David F. Brubaker was born here September 4, 1841, during his boyhood days working upon his father's farm and in the, meantime pursuing his studies in the district school, and he remained under the parental roof until he was twenty years of age, when he repaired to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he remained for one year and upon returning home engaged in the dry goods business as clerk, serving in that capacity for two years, at the termination of which time he became associated with the grocery business with W. G. Heltman, with whom he remained for two years and then, in partnership with his brother Jacob, he entered the dry-goods business, in which he continued for thirty-five years. He subsequently severed his connection with the firm on account of his health and entered the real-estate business, which he is now following, at the same time having a number of investments in other enterprises. In all his ventures he has been successful owing to the fact that he possessed extraordinary business ability an is naturally given to transacting affairs. On September 2, 1869, Mr. Brubaker wedded Miss Mary L. Taylor, who was one of a family of six children who received their education in the Hayesville Acdemy, and a daughter of Samuel Taylor, a pioneer of this county who spent his life in the manufacture of plows, threshing machines and other farm implements. Politically Mr. Brubaker supports the democratic party, and he holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. His life has been one of great usefulness to the community, which has felt the benefit of his industry and enter- 462 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY prise, and being a man whose business relations have always been conducted onthe basis of honesty he is considered one of the most reliable men as well as one of the most substantial in the business circles of the county. MR. AND MRS. JOHNSON WELCH. Ephraim Welch and his wife, Jane (McAdoo) Welch, came to Ashland county from Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1828 and took up the quarter section of land in the northern part of Orange township on which they resided until the death of Mr. Welch. In their family were the following named; James M., John, Johnson, Rankin, Catharine, and Mary Jane, all of whom reached adult age, were married and reared families. Johnson Welch, whose name appears at the head of this sketch, was born December 15, 1831, and was reared to manhood under circumstances very similar to those attending the lives of most of the pioneer boys of Ashland county. He was an expert hand at log rollings, at chopping, swinging the scythe, or cradling, and when there was a log cabin to raise he was generally selected to carry one of the corners—a job which required considerable skillful chopping in order that the building be plumb and the logs properly fitted together. His education consisted of the learning which he was able to acquire at the country schools where only the common branches of learning were taught Emeline (Buchanan) Welch was born May 1, 1838, on what is now known as the McDowell farm on the north line of Jackson township, Ashland county. Her father, John Buchanan, was a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and came of a family well known for their thrift, and business integrity. By his industry and the good management of his numerous flocks of sheep he won success, and as his financial resources increased made investments in land, until his holdings were extensive. His wife, Mrs. Rachel (Jackson) Buchanan, was a native of Jefferson county, Ohio. Mrs. Welch, who is still living, has vivid recollections of the privations incident to pioneer life experienced during her girlhood days. She attended school at what was known as No. 4, in Sullivan township, near the Elder Cressinger farm and her life up to the time of her marriage was spent in her native township. Mr. and Mrs. Welch were married on the 29th of September, 1857, and began housekeeping on the farm now owned by Royal Welch, adjoining the present homestead. There were born to them: Eugene B., Ellsworth G., Etta L., Frank L., Mollie, Berman B.. and Royal J., all of whom are now living except Mollie, who became the wife. of James M. Fluke and whose untimely death on the 2d of January, 1909, was mourned by all who knew her. Eugene married Mallie B. Pratt, of Hamilton county, Kansas, and they now reside in El Paso, Texas. They have living a daughter, Louise, and two sons, Paul and Benton while a daughter, Lucile, and an infant son are deceased. Ellsworth Welch married Bertha Porter. They lost an infant son and their living children are Florence, Donald and Marshall. Etta Welch became the wife of the Rev. Andrew McCullough, of Coshocton county, Ohio. Frank Welch married Zetta HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 465 Wiler and their children are two sons, Harold and Lawrence, and three daughters, Lucile, Ruth and Irene. Mollie Welch married James M. Fluke and they had two sons, Eugene and John, and five daughters, Edna, Opal, Emeline, Mary and Bernice. Herman Welch married Mayme Laughery and they have one son, Leonard. Royal Welch married Elva Landis and they have one daughter, Vera. Mr. and Mrs. Welch began their married life in a very primitive way. Their household furnishings consisted of two corded bedsteads, two feather beds, some bidding, half a dozen chairs, a. scanty supply of dishes, a table, an old stove and a few other necessary articles. The house was a log cabin of not very pretentious dimensions, the barn was a log structure with a clapboard roof held on by poles, while the doors were split and shaved and the few nails in them were hand forged. The indomitable purpose of Mr. and Mrs. Welch did not allow them to continue long amid such conditions, for owing to their thrift and economy they were soon able to build a splendid home which Mrs. Welch has since occupied abd which continued his place of residence until he was called to his final rest. This home has always been known as one of culture and refinement and a place where friends were ever welcome. There are many who can testify to Mrs. Welch's hospitality and her success in the culinary art., and to her very high standing as a woman and mother. Mr. Welch never aspired to public office nor to membership in any order and was not a member of any church, although a man of deep moral principles and broad religious convictions. His ambition was to discharge his duties in life in the fullest possible sense. His business affairs were carefully conducted. He was one of the first and most successful breeders of fine wool sheep in Ashland county and at the time of his death, which occurred October 27, 1886, was possessed of a number of valuable farms on which grazed several hundred sheep of his breeding. His influence on the wool-growing interests of the county was very marked and is notably felt to this day. He was a strong factor in the introduction and development of Merino and later of Delaine sheep in this section of the state. As the head of a family, as the builder of a home, as a successful farmer and stockman, as a citizen, and as a man of integrity and honest business principles he was second to none in the community and time in which he lived, SAMUEL ABER. An excellent farm on section 22, Lake township, pays tribute to the care and labor of Samuel Aber, who works diligently and persistently year after year for the further development and improvement of his land, which now constitutes one of the desirable farms of the county. He is a citizen of sterling worth, held in high regard throughout the community in which, he makes his. home. His birth occurred January 2, 1845, about three miles north of his present farm in Lake township, Ashland county, on the Wayne county line. In fact the property was divided by the boundary between the two counties. His parents 466 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY were William and Eleanor (Dirrim) Aber, the former born in Pennsylvania, October 14, 1814, while the mother's birth occurred in Carroll county, Ohio, February 1, 1823. William Aber accompanied his parents on their removal from the Keystone state to Carroll county when five years of age, and was there reared to manhood. On the 8th of June, 1838, he wedded Eleanor Dirrin and in the spring of 1843 they removed to Lake township, Ashland county, settling in the midst of the green woods on a tract of land of two hundred and forty acres on which not a tree had been cut nor a furrow turned. Upon this place the father spent his remaining days, cleared away the timber, prepared the fields for cultivation, and in course of time gathered rich and abundant harvests. Ile died February 24, 1892, after which his widow lived with her children until her demise, December 7, 1907, spending much of her time with her son Dan, in Ashland. They reared a family of nine sons and one daughter: David, who served for three years as a member of the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, a ball passing through his body, after which he was in the invalid corps until the close of hostilities, is now a resident of Missouri. Samuel is the next of the family. William resides in Loudonville. John is a resident of Funk, Ohio. Hannah is the deceased wife of Louis N. P. Emerick. Isaac is living in Missouri. James died at the age of nineteen years. Joseph and Daniel are twins and the former resides on the home farm while the latter is living in Ashland, Ohio. Clinton. the youngest of the family, is now pastor of a Christian church in Indiana. Samuel Aber spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads, working in the fields, enjoying the sports common to the youths of the period, and mastering the branches of learning taught in the public schools. He continued with his parents until his marriage, and then came to his present home in 1866. Here he secured the ownership of eighty acres of the original one hundred and sixty acres which his father had owned on section 22, Lake township. He also bought forty-three acres of the adjoining Metcalf farm and fifteen acres of the Moore farm, so that he now has a total of one hundred and thirty-eight acres on Round lake, pleasantly situated one and a half miles south of McZena. It is a well improved property on which are two sets of a good buildings which were erected by Mr. Aber. His place is known as the Lakeview Farm and many people come to the lake in summer to enjoy the refreshing shade furnished by the fine groves and the cool water. This is a picturesque district in which nature has offered many attractions. Aside from his farming interests Mr. Aber is a factor in the Washington Township Mutual Fire & Lightning Insurance Company. In his political views Mr. Aber is an independent democrat. He has held several school and road offices but dos not seek nor desire political preferment, although he is loyal to the party and has never missed a general election since he became a voter. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Lakeville, in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested. He is now serving as one of the trustees of the church and is superintendent of the Sunday school and he was formerly an active member of the grange. It was on the 6th of March, 1866, that Mr. Aber was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Popham, who was born in Culpeper Bounty, Virginia, March HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 467 11, 1839. When five years of age she went to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, with her parents, George and Mary Ann (Bean) Popham, who were natives of Virginia and spent their last days in Tuscarawas county. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Aber has been blessed with nine children: Anna, who died in infancy; Allen, who died at the age of twenty-one years; Mary Eleanor, who died when but six months old; Lee, who passed away in his,. fifth year; Lelah, the wife of H. J. Raubinolt, of Ashland; Elnora, the wife of Harmon Shearer, of Lake township; Flora, who is the widow of Newton E. Dilyard, and resides on her father's farm; Ellis, who married Orphie Butler and operates the old homestead; and Marion D., who wedded Emma Boneburger and lives in Akron, Ohio. Since their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Aber have continuously resided upon the farm which is now their home and throughout the community they have a large circle of warn, friends who esteem them highly for their genuine personal worth. JAMES W. SHAW. James W. Shaw, a prominent undertaker of Savannah, who has been associated with a number of other enterprises here, was born in this county February 9, 1866, and descends from a family, the members of which were among the early pioneers of Ashland county. His great-grandfather, William Shaw, came here from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, when his son Guian, the grandfather of the subject of this review, was a mere child. He settled in this locality, where he became influential in local affairs, having been one of the prosperous and subatantial agriculturists of the township. His father, John Shaw, Sr., was united in marriage to Ann Lindsay and was also a prominent husbandman of this section. His death occurred July 26, 1907, while his wife still survives. In their family were two sons, James W. and Robert N., the latter being engaged in the drug and book business in the village of Savannah. James W. Shaw spent his boyhood days upon his father's farm where he became familiar with the various departments of agriculture, during the winter months acquiring his preliminary education in the district schools, subsequently taking a course of study in Savannah Academy. He remained upon the home place until he was united in marriage, after which he followed the occupation of farming in Clear Creek township until 1895, when he removed to the village of Savannah where he engaged in the drug and book business in partnership with his brother, Robert N., the firm title being Shaw Brothers. At the same time he became individually interested in the undertaking enterprise. The firm of Shaw Brothers continued until October, 1.907, when James W. Shaw sold out his interests to his brother, thereby retiring from the partnership. He has since devoted his attention to the undertaking business, at the same time superintending the various departments of his farm work. He is a graduate of the Clark School of Embalming at Cincinnati, Ohio, and is a licensed embalmer, having an establishment excellently equipped for his enterprise, and he has become so popular that his services are required throughout a wide range of territory. 468 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY On October 4, 1888, Mr. Shaw wedded Miss Mary L. Gibson, daughter of John and Catherine. (Grissinger) Gibson, her father a prominent agriculturist of this county. This union has been blessed by one daughter, Edna Lois. Mr. Shaw a republican in politics is one of the most progressive men in the village and particularly an ardent advocate of good roads and a first class school system. He has been sought to fill several important local position, among them being that of a member of the village council, to which body he has belonged for several years. He is also a member of the school board and at present is serving his third term as township treasurer. In educational matters his influence is deeply felt and he is secretary of the board of trustees of Savannah Academy. In addition to belonging to the Ohio Funeral Direetors Association he also is a member of Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I. 0. 0. P., and of Ashland Camp. Being as deeply interested in religious affairs as in those pertaining to politics and business, he is a member of the Presbyterian church, to which his family also belong, and is active in the various departments of church work, particularly that of the Sunday school. Mr. Shaw is one of the county's progressive, intelligent and substantial citizens, noted for his earnestness and honesty. At intervals he likes to withdraw from the business world for recreation, and finds pleasure in fishing and hunting, and particularly in driving a good horse. PETER M. REDDING. Peter M. Redding, prominent in the financial and industrial circles of the city of Ashland, was born in Ashland county, December 21, 1843, a son of Philip and Elizabeth (binges) Redding, the father a native of Germany, where his birth occurred in 1811, and his mother, of the same country, born in 1814 United in marriage there in 1837, during that year they came to the United States, locating in Ashland county, where he followed his trade of carpentering until he departed this life in 1897, his wife, who survived him by two years, entering into rest in 1899. They reared the following children: Peter M.: Philip, whose birth occurred here in 1845 ; Magdalene ; Redding Houserman,. born here in 1851; George, born here in 1853; and William, whose birth occurred here in 1858. Upon acquiring his education in the common schools of this city, Peter M. Redding was apprenticed to a carpenter and joiner, and upon completing his trade continued as a journeyman. Subsequently he engaged in the contract business, in which he has been very successful, many of the foremost buildings of this place standing as monuments of his skill and workmanship, among them being the opera house, Ashland College, the Myers plant, the residences of F. E. and P. A. Myers, and also the dwelling house of S. Grabill. Moreover he constructed the Presbyterian church building, the edifices occupied by the older Disciples of Christ and the United Brethren, and in addition many of the older buildings which now stand as landmarks in the city. In this business he actively engaged until 1889. After the death of Mr. Kagey he represented HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 469 the widow's interest until 1907, when her son, Herbert B. Kagey, became affiliated with the firm and later David Shearer, and the enterprise is now being conducted under the name of Shearer, Kagey & Company, this firm being one of the most substantial financially in this part of the state. In August, 1862, Mr. Redding enlisted in Company A, McLaughlin's Squadron Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, which was comprised of two hunderd men, the governor of the state having granted Major McLaughlin the privilege of enlisting two companies, and at Mansfield, the squadron joined Sherman's brigade, which was made up of the Sixty-fourth and Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, andd the Sixth Ohio Volunteer Battery, the brigade having been organized by Senator John Sherman in 1861. During that and the following year, they saw considerable service scouting in eastern Kentucky and West Virginia. in 1863, Mr. Redding was with Burnside at the siege of Knoxville, and in 1864 with Sherman from Kenesaw Mountain throughout the Atlanta Campaign, later serving with Kilpatrick 's Cavalry on Sherman's march to the sea. On March 1, 1865, Mr. Redding was captured and lodged in the prison at Salisbury, North Carolina, later being transferred to Danville, Virginia, and from there to Libby prison, Richmond, where he remained until April 2, 1865, one day before the fall of that city, and he was among the last to leave the old tobacco warehouse that was used for prison purposes. He received an honorable discharge at Camp Chase, Ohio, June 20, 1865. Mr. Redding's marriage with Miss Melinda Roland a daughter of Henry and Susan (Brubaker) Roland, was solemnized January 9, 1866, and to them were born five children: Vernon, born in October, 1866; Elizabeth E. Gongroer, born in 1870; Henry Newton, whose birth occurred in October, 1876 ; Frank, a soldier of the Cuban war, born in 1879, who departed this life at the Bellevue Hospital, New York, in 1898, shortly after returning from the expedition; and Lester, whose birth occurred in 1882. All the children have been graduated from the Ashland high school. A democrat in politics, Mr. Redding has always been a stanch adherent of the principles of his party and loyal to its candidates. He was a member of the council of Ashland when the first sewer was put in and Union street opened. He attends divine worship at the Methodist Episcopal church and his upright walk and honesty, together with his industry and enterprise, have justly won him the reputation of being among the city's worthy and substantial business men. MARION DANIEL HUFFMAN. The agricultural interests of Lake township find a worthy representative in Marion Daniel Huffman, who lives on section 23. His farm comprises one hundred and four acres of land that extends across the line into Washington township, Holmes county. It is an attractively situated property bordering on Long lake and constitutes one of the pleasing features of the locality by reason of the care and cultivation bestowed upon it. Mr. Huffman was born in Washington township, Holmes county, January 31, 1861, his parents being 470 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Henry and Barbara (Heffelfinger) Huffman, who were also natives of the same township, the former born June 1, 1838, and the latter on the 16th of February. 1838. Both the paternal and maternal grandparents of Mr. Huffman were natives of Alsace, France. His father's parents were Henry and Eva (Miller) Huffman, while his mother was a daughter of Martin and Barbara (Oligher) Heffelfinger. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Huffman spent their last days in Loudonville where the father died March 26, 1909, and the mother passed away on the 14th of March, 1907. Their family numbered eight children as follows: Martin J., a resident of Loudonville; Marion D.; Margaret, the wife of J. L. Beary, of Washington township, Holmes county; Henry G., who is living is the same township; Emanuel E., of the same locality; Alice B., the wife of Fred Beck, of Green township, this county ; and Fred W.. and Charles A., twins residing in Loudonville. The public schools afforded Marion D. Huffman his educational privileges nor was his training at farm labor meager. From an early age he assisted his father in the work of the fields, remaining upon the home farm in his native township until his marriage. He then removed to Green township, Ashland county, in 1887, living there for two years, after which he took up his present abode upon his farm in Lake township. This place comprises one hundred and four acres of rich and productive land, most of which lies in Lake township, although twenty-two acres are across the line in the township of his nativity. Long lake, a beautiful little body of water, forms an attractive feature of his place and affords good fishing. Mr. Huffman devotes his time and energies to the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to climatic conditions here and also to the raising of stock and both branches of his business are proving sources of profitable income. For ten years he was the secretary of the Washington Township Mutual Fire & Lightning Insurance Company, and during that time the business of the company was increased from two to seven million dollars. He is widely recognized as an enterprising business man whose force of character, ready adaptability and unfaltering determination are the salient features in his success. In 1887 Mr. Huffman was married to Miss Alice H. Moats, who was born March 23, 1863, on the farm which is still her place of residence. It was also the birthplace of her father, Jacob Moats, whose natal day was May 8, 1827, and whose life record covered the intervening years to April, 1881. He was a son of John and Elizabeth (Bittinger) Moats, natives of Pennsylvania. who, on coming to Ohio in 1829, entered land from the government during the Jackson administration, the original deed signed by the president being now in possession of Mr. Huffman. The little pioneer cabin erected by John Moats is still standing as one of the landmarks of this part of the county and a mute witness of the transformation that has been wrought as the county has emerged from pioneer conditions and taken on all of the evidences of a modern civilization. Both John. and Elizabeth Moats spent the remainder of their lives upon this farm, being closely identified with the early development and progress of Mrs. part of the county. They had three children: Jacob, the father of Mrs. Huffman; Mrs. Christina Molter and Mrs. Susanna. Eiman. Jacob Moats wasreared on the old homestead place which his father had secured from the HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 471 government and gave his entire life to general agricultural pursuits. His wife, who was born in Washington township, Holmes county, December 9, 1837, was a daughter of Louis and Magdalena (Sprang) Kelser, who were natives of Alsace, France. The mother of Mrs. Huffman still survives and was married a second time in 1889, being now the widow of Solomon Wolf. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Moats were born five children: William A., living in Indiana; John L., who died in Iowa; Anna L., the wife of John Sillix, of Kansas City, Kansas; Martha Jane the wife of Howard Baney, of Wayne county; and Airs. Huffman. The lask named by her marriage has become the mother of two children : Harry G. and Grace L., aged respectively nineteen and eleven years and both still at home. In community affairs Mr. Huffman has always taken a deep and active interest. He gives his political allegiance to the democracy and for nine years filled the office of justice of the peace in Lake township, his decisions being strictly fair and impartial for they were based upon the law and equity of the case. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Newkirk and are loyal to its teachings and its purposes. Their lives have ever been honorable and upright, winning for then) the merited confidence and esteem of all who know them. They have always lived in this locality and their life history is, therefore, an open book to their many friends and acquaintances. WILLIAM O. WHITMARSH. William O. Whitmarsh, who for a number of years conducted a thriving mercantile business in Savannah, but is now living retired in the village, was bornin this vicinty November 1, 1857, a son of Uriah and Elizabeth (Masters) Whitmarsh. The father departed this life when his son William O. was but three years of age, while his mother, who still survives, is residing in this city. At an early age William O. Whitmarsh found employment among the farmers of this locality and during the winter seasons obtained his preliminary education in the district schools, while later he pursued a course of study at Savannah Academy. When twenty-one years of age, preferring a business life rather than one of husbandry, he entered the employ of John R. Bailey, a general merchant of this city, for whom he acted in the capacity of cleric for several years, in the meantime manifesting considerable business ability and acquirinn a thorough knowledge of the various departments of the enterprise. In partnership with John McWilliams he established the firm of Whitmarsh & McWilliams. doing a general merchandise business and in this connection he remianed for several years when Mr. McWilliams severed his connection and moved to Colorado. Mr. Whitmarsh conducted the enterprise alone until February 1, 1909, when he disposed of his interests to Vinton E. Rudy and is now practically living in retirement. During his active business career, through his enterprise and good judgment, he acquired an extensive patronage and built up a concern which stands high in the commercial circles of the city. Since 472 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY withdrawing from the mercantile world he has not become altogether inactive but devotes much of his time to superixiterrding his farm which is located nearby and therefore easy of access and, in caring for its various departments, he finds both recreation and pleasure. On June 26, 1884, Mr. Whitmarsh wedded Miss Sarah J. Carothers daughter of David and Amanda (Murphy) Carothers natives of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. They have two children : David C., who is a student in the Presbyterian Theological. Seminary at Princeton, New Jersey; and Elizabeth. who is pursuing her studies at the Savannah Academy. Politically Mr. Whitmarsh is a republican, active in the affairs of his party and has frequently been a member of the republican county committee and a delegate to the county, district and state conventions. In local affairs he favors public irnprovements, is always. aggressive in advocating plans for beautifying the city and is a strong advocate of fine school buildings and well kept thorough. fares. He has served efficiently as township treasurer and clerk, also as village treasurer and was a member of the Savannah. council for a number of years. At present he is a member of the board of education and also of the board of trustees of the Savannah Academy. With the members of his family he attends the Presbyterian church, of which he is treasurer, his zealous Christian spirit making him active in religious affairs, and as superintendent of the Sunday school he is a power for good in inculcating into the youth the principles of Christianity so essential to enable one to live a moral and upright life. Sunday school work is his specialty and in this department he is active throughout the entire county and has been treasurer of the County Sunday School Association for the past four years. His wife is also an energetic church worker and being a refined and cultured woman exerts a telling influence in church circles. Mr. Whitmarsh is a man whose endeavors for the betterment of the community are of the highest worth and he is not only held in high esteem as a business man but also as a moral and spiritual force throughout the community. CHARLES T. ALLEMAN. Fate has ever accorded success to tireless energy intelligently directed. It has been. along the lines of well defined labor that Charles T. Alleman has won his prosperity, making him one of the representative merchants of Jeromerille. He was here born on the 7th of February, 1846, and has ever made his home in this town. Moreover he is the oldest living resident of Jeromeville. His parents were Herman and Katharine (Ingmand) Alleman. The father who was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania. March 12, 1813, spent his last days in Jeromeville, where he passed away April 14, 1878. Twice he enlisted for service in the Civil war and on the, 6th of December, 1861., he was appointed second lieutenant of Company B. McLaughlin's squadron of cavalry. He served with that command for a year, at the end of which time he resigned but after ten days spent at home he reenlisted on the 14th of October, 1862, and was appointed HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 475 sergeant of Company H, Tenth Regiment of Ohio Cavalry, with which he served for two years, being honorably discharged October 7, 1864, from the general hospital, where he had been for some time as the result of an injury sustained by a fall from a horse. Ile had come to Ohio in his childhood days with his parents, the family home being established near Madisonburg. He was a chairmaker by trade and after his marriage most of his active life spent in Jeromeville. where he conducted business as a chairmaker and undertaker. At that day all caskets were made by hand and he did much work in that direction. He was also justice of the peace here for several years and likewise served as mayor. His political allegiance was given to the democracy. He was twice married and by the first union had two daughters: Mary, who became the wife of Absalom Martin, but both are now deceased; and Sarah Jane, the wife of Robert King, a resident of Kent, Ohio. After the death of his first wife the father married Katharine Ingmand, who was born January 9, 1818, and died May 6, 1877. Her entire life was spent in this locality, her people coming here before the Indians left. There were five children of the second marriage: Elizabeth Adelaide, who died unmarried; Charles T.; Martha, the wife of Ezekiel Lybarger, a resident of Kendallville, Indiana; Emma, the deceased wife of Asa Lybarger; and Edmund I., of Jeromeville, Ohio. Charles T. Alleman largely devoted his time to the acquirement of an education until seventeen years of age, when he enlisted in response to the country's call for troops. Constrained by a spirit of patriotism, he joined Company A of the Ninety-sixth Battalion of the Ohio National Guard on the 18th of August, 1863, for a period of five years. He was mustered into the United States army in May, 1864, for one hundred days' service and was discharged therefrom on the 10th of September, 1864. During that period the regiment was attached to the Army of the Potomac under General Butler and Mr. Alleman participated in the battle of Petersburg and minor engagements. When the war was over he returned home and worked with his father at the cabinetmaker's trade and also in the furniture and undertaking business. After the death of his father he conducted the furniture and undertaking business on his own account for many years. He was about forty-five years of age when he established a general store, adding a shoe department, dry goods, notions and groceries. In this enterprise he met with success, securing a large and profitable trade and later he admitted his son, George Edgar, to a partnership under the firm style of C. T. and G. E. Alleman. Mr. Alleman of this review owns the block in which they carry on business and also two dwellings on the same block. He is a wide-awake enterprising business man, carrying forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes. As the years have gone by his capable management and keen discernment have been manifest in the excellent results which have attended his labors. Moreover he is known as a most reliable business man, winning success through persistent, earliest and well directed. On the 7th of December, 1867, Mr. Alleman was united in marriage to Miss Rose Yanders, who was born November 21 1851, at Miami, Ohio, a daughter of George and Margaret Yanders, who were natives of Germany. Her father, who was born July 20, 1820, died on the 10th of March, 1897. The 476 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY mother, whose birth occurred in October, 1809, passed away April 2, 1895 Unto Mr. and Mrs. Alleman have been born six children: George Edgar, who wedded Miss Bertha Pearl Mines and is associated with his father in business; Bertha M., the wife of W. D. Funk, a resident of Finik, Wayne county: Minnie G., who passed away at the age of thirteen years; Margaret E., who died when fourteen years of age; Rena C., the wife of Clarence. Carl, a hardware merchant of Jerorneville; and Lucy R., who is the wife of Walter C. Plank, of Jeromesville, Ohio. In his political views Mr. Alleman is a stalwart democrat, having stanchly supported the party since age first conferred upon him the right of franchise. He was justice of the peace in his township and was mayor of the. village for several years, giving a public-spirited administration. his public service was characterized by the same stalwart qualities which have been manifest in his business life and therefore he won the commendation and approval of his fellow townsmen. He formerly held membership in the Grand Army post here until it was disbanded because of lack of members and he has long been identified with the Methodist Episcopal church, which finds in him a stalwart supporter. His life has ever been in conformity with its teachings, winning for him the high regard of his fellowmen. CHARLES J. WONER Charles J. Woner is assistant postmaster of Ashland, a position of considerable responsibility, owing to the fact that this is a first-class office and receives and dispatches more mail than any other town of its size in the United States. He was born April 7, 1867, in Canaan, Ohio, a son of J. D. and Rebecca (Irvin) Woner, who were natives of Wayne county, Ohio, and were married in 1865. The father learned the harness-maker's trade in early life and continued to follow it throughout his remaining days. In 1873 he purchased a farm of sixty acres and while engaged in agricultural pursuits he also continued to manufacture harness. His last days were spent upon the farm, where he passed away in 1873, while his wife died in 1895. Their family numbered three children : Charles J. ; Ora E., who was born July 7, 1869; and George J., born June 13, 1871. At the time of the Civil war Mr. Woner had responded to the country's call for aid, enlisting in 1861 as a member of the One Hundred and Third Regiment of Ohio Infantry. Ile was on duty for three years and six months and made an excellent record by his loyal support of the old flag in the cause it represented. Charles J. Woner pursued his education in the public schools but when a lad of only thirteen years began providing for his own support by farm labor. He was thus employed until twenty-two years of age, when he established a shorthand school, having previously studied stenography. He conducted this in 1889 and 1890, when he sold out to Mr. Bixler, since which time the school has become widely known. In the latter year Mr. Woner entered the employ of the Lake Shore Michigan Southern Railroad Company at Cleveland as a HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 477 stenographer, remaining there for ten months, after which he became private secretary to Thomas W. Dewitt, general superintendent of the Wells Fargo Express Company at Cleveland. Later he was made agent for the same company at Ashland in 1.893 and continued to acceptably fill that position for eleven years, or until 1904, when he resigned and became a, representative of the J. A. Black Stock Food Company. In 1906 he was appointed assistant postmaster of Ashland and has since occupied this position.. He is a capable official, reliable and trustworthy, systematic and accurate. In his political views Mr. Woner has always been a stalwart republican and ever a stanch supporter of the gold standard. His fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias and his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church. he as married Mav 23, 1893, to Miss Mary J. Downing, of Wooster, Ohio, a daughter of Paxton and Elizabeth Downing. Their only child, Charles, died a the age of four years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Woner are well known in Ashland where they have many warm friends who hold them in high regard because of their many substantial and commendable traits of character. UPTON ANDRESS. Upton Andress, an attorney at law practicing in Hayesville, was born in Montgomery township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 12th of September, 1855, and has spent his entire life, covering fifty-four years, within the borders of the county. His parents were Samuel D. and Sarah (Hildebrant) Andress, who were also natives of Ashland county, where they spent their entire lives as farming people. The father died in 1902 at the age of seventy-six years, while the mother passed away in 1880 at the age of forty-four years. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Henry and Mary (Fry) Andress, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of Pennsylvania. They were married in this county and for many years Henry Andress engaged in business as a teamster and hotel keeper at Jeromesville. At length he purchased a farm in Montgomery township and later sold that property and bought the farm which is now in possession of Upton Andress. There both he and his wife spent their remaining days. They reared a family of five sons and five daughters, including Samuel D. Andress, who married Miss Sarah Hildebrant, a daughter of Peter Hildebrant, who was a native of Pennsylvania and one of the early settlers of Ashland county, locating two miles north of Hayesville. He and his wife both died on a farm about. three miles northeast of Hayesville. Their family numbered six sons and six daughters. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Samuel D. Andress were born eight children : Lilly L., the wife of Henry Stoom of Ashland; Upton; Mary C., the wife of John A. Wharton, living three miles west of Ashland; Dillman, a resident of Hayesville; Mrs. Anna L. Reading, the wife of C. H. Reading, of Akron, Ohio; B. F., living in Hayesville; Ella D., the wife of John H. Teeple, of Akron; and H. E., who was graduated from the Cincinnati Law School with the class of 1895 and is now an attorney of Akron. 478 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Upton Andress remained upon the home farm with his parents until sixteen years of age, when, thinking to find other pursuits more congenial, he began learning the cabinet-maker's trade, at which he worked for about. eight years, but his ambition pointed to a professional career and he began reading law with David Fox and at once began practice. In this he has been very successful having intrusted to him the largest amount of legal business of any man in Ashland county not admitted to the bar. He now has a. good practice but never took the examination. He has practiced continuously in Hayesville since 1882 where he is also known as a general collector and successful insurance agent. He is likewise a stockholder in the Ashland Banking & Savings Company which he aided in organizing. He also owns the old Andress homestead of one hundred and fifty-six acres a mile northeast of the town and which was once the property of his grandfather, Henry Andress. On the 12th of April, 1888, Mr. Andress was married to Miss Myrtle E. Smalley, a. native of this county, and a daughter of Methias Smalley a wealthy farmer of Orange township. Her death occurred in 1902 and on the 28th of June. 1905, Mr. Andress wedded Millicent Coe, a native of Ashland county and a daughter of S. M. and Maria Coe. They have one son, Samuel Coe. Mr. Andress has been called to settle many estates and altogether has been a most successful as well as most reliable man. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and also to the Presbyterian church. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worthi and ability, have frequently called him to office. For twelve years he served as mayor of Hayesville, being elected three terms without opposition, a compliment that has been paid to no other man. His administration was characterized by a prompt and businesslike discharge of the duties of the office, together with the support of regulative and progressive measures which have been of the utmost value to the city. In 1905 he was chairman of the congressional convention at Mansfield and has been a delegate to many state conventions, while in 1904 he was a delegate to the national democratic convention at St. Louis which nominated Parker. His words carry weight in the councils of his party and he is recognized as one of the influential representatives of democracy in this part of the state. Frank William Freer is largely identified with the commercial and financial interests of Ashland as a member of the firm of Freer Brothers, leading clothiers of this city, the firm being of thirty-five years standing during which time it has acquired a reputation in this particular line of business which has obtained throughout the country. He was born in Ashland March 5. 1855, a son of Randolph and Harriet A.. (Smith) Freer, his father being a native of Ashtabula county. There he was reared and when still a young man, about the year 1849 or 1850, came to the city of Ashland, where he engaged in the hardware business. With this enterprise he was identified something over seven HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 479 years when, desiring a broader commercial field in which to exercise his ability and gratifv his ambitions, he disposed of the hardware business which he had established and began to deal in wool and grain, in which he met with success. After a few years his business had become so prosperous that he built a commodious elevator and managed the enterprise with such skill and ability as to enable him to amass a considerable fortune. Finally he disposed of his interests and became identified with the First National Bank of this city shortly after the organization of that institution, and for several years officiated on the board of directors. In 1873, in partnership with a brother, Jonas, he organized the Farmers Bank of this city, of which he became president, the institution being one of the best known and most substantial in the state. In 1868, while in the midst of the pressure of his business affairs, Mr. Freer sought a season of recreation on one of his fauns, but while there met with the misfortune of having one of his limbs amputated by a mowing machine, the injury resulting in a nervous shock which finally, in 1883, caused him to be stricken with paralysis. He then was compelled to withdraw from active life, upon which he transferred his banking interests to his sons. Aside from his excellent business career as a banker and promoter of commercial enterprises he was also prominent in local politics and for several years was a. member of the city council, being recognized as foremost among the leaders in the city's advancement. Politically he was a stanch republican and an ardent advocate of party principles, never an office seeker, preferring to live within the retirement of private life. It was only through his desire to become more efficient in adding to the city's progress that he consented to serve as a member of the council. As greatly interested in religious matters as in business, he was a member of the Presbyterian church, in which organization he was for Many years a deacon. After a long and highly useful career death terminated his activities on July 21, 1884. Frank William Freer was reared under the parental roof, acquiring his education in the Ashland schools and also in the college of this city, and subsequently pursuing a commercial course of study at Iron City College, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated. Returning to Ashland in 1874, two years later he was established in the clothing business with his brother, Charles R., by his father, the firm being known as Freer & Sons, under which name the business has been conducted for the past thirty-five years. However, the enterprise is of far longer standing in this city, having been originally operated by Wiley, McCauley & Jones, from whom it was purchased by the elder Mr. Freer. Since taking hold of the enterprise the Freer Brothers have greatly added to its efficiency and volume of trade, and at present they hold tje reputation of being the leading clothiers in this section of the country, the garments of their manufacture being known for style and workmanship throughout the country. Mr. Freer and his brothers, Charles and George, are still identified with the Farmers Bank as stockholders and directors, while George is cashier of the institution. In 1879 Mr. Freer wedded Miss Flora G. Servis, of Canfield, Mahoning county, Ohio, to which union has been born one daughter, Minnie Louise, the wife of Roscoe S. Woodyard, of La Grange, Illinois. Mrs. Freer departed this 480 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY life August 8, 1883, and Mr. Freer was united in marriage July 29, 1890, to Miss Annie Secor, of Manistee, Michigan, by whom he has had three children: Ralph D., who attends the Ashland high school; Frank Secor ; and Harriet. Mr Freer is well known for his forwardness in advocating measures for the advancement of the city's interests, and being a public-spirited man who desires the very best for the municipality in which he resides he is an influential member of the Commercial Club of Ashland, and also of the Board of Trade. Politically, he is a republican but has always declined to permit his name to be proposed for public preferment, being content with casting his vote and using his influence toward the election of the candidates of his party. Together with the members of his family he attends the Presbyterian church, his relations with this body being greatly to its benefit. A man of excellent character, Mr. Freer is known throughout the county as a representative citizen and substantial businessman. ALBERT BUTLER Albert Butler who devoted his early life to the carpenter's trade but for many years has followed farming, now owns and cultivates one hundred acres of land on section 23, Lake township, and in his work displays the spirit of enterprise and determination that is leading him steadily onward to the goal of success. He was born April 3, 1852, in Holmes county, Ohio, a son of James and Mary (Ulrich) Butler, who were natives of Franklin county. Pennsylvania, where they were reared and married. They arrived in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1842, and spent their remaining days there. The father was married twice and had ten children by his first union and eight In his second marriage. The father passed away in 1880 at the age of eighty years and his wife died in 1872, when fifty-six years of age. Albert Butler spent the first fifteen years of his life under the parental roof and then came to the neighborhood in which he is now living. Here he began earning his own livelihood, working by the month. He turned his attention to the carpenter's trade which he followed for several years but it was his ambition to own a farm and he very carefully sawed his earnings until his capital was sufficient to enable him to make the purchase of a. tract of land. He has a farm of one hundred acres on section 23, Lake township, cornering also upon Holmes and Wayne counties. It was the last tract of land to be entered in this vicinity. It borders the State road leading from Cleveland to Columbus and is advantageously situated while the soil is rich and productive. The old Colonel Crawford trail also crosses this farm and the place has many historic associations . The land was entered from the government by George Wolf, the father-in-law of Mr. Butler, who now has in his possession the original deed which was signed by President Jackson. Upon the place today are substantial buildings and all modern improvements, with good machinery, well kept fences and amplee shelter for grain and stock. Mr. Butler annually harvests good crops for he pays much attention to the condition of the soil and carries on the work of plowing, planting and harvesting in the most approved modern methods. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 481 In 1879 Mr. Butler was united in marriage to Miss Rosanna Wolf, who was born on the present farm August 14, 1845, and has always made her home here. She is a daughter of George and Nancy (Gurwell) Wolf, the former born in Pennsylvania, December 17, 1795, and the latter in Maryland, December 12, 1804, Mrs. Wolf came to Ohio with her parents, the family residence being established in Holmes county. Mr. Wolf also made his way to this state in childhood days in company with his parents who located in Ashland county. The marriage of George Wolf and Nancy Gurwell was celebrated on the 30th of December, 1824, and they spent their remaining days on the farm which is noe the home of Mr. and Mrs. Butler, his death occurring June 6, 1864, while his wife passed away May 4, 1889. The family numbered ten children: Solomon, deceased; Eliza, who died at the age of fourteen years; Jacob, who has passed away; William G., a resident of Seneca, Michigan; Mrs. Jemima Miller, deceased; Martin, who died in childhood; George of Montana; Helen, who departed this life in childhood; Mrs. Rachel Offineer, of Iowa; and Mrs. Butler. All were born and reared on the farm which is now occupied by our subject and his wife. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Butler has been blessed with four children: Orpha M., now the wife of Ellis Aber, of Lake township; Harvey J., living in Wayne county; Emile L., at home; and Kate, the wife of Byron Metcalf, of Wayne one county, Ohio. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Lakeville and reared their children in that faith. All of the family are now earnest supporters of the church and of all those measures and movements which are deemed essential in good citizenship. Mr. Butler votes independently, considering the capabilities of the candidate rather than his party affiliations. A life of intense and well directed activity has led Mr. Butler to his present position among the substantial residents of this part of the state. Starting out in life on his own account, empty-handed, when fifteen years of age he has since been dependent entirely upon his own resources and his unremitting industry and careful management have made him one of the representative farmers of the community, enjoying success which is the direct and of earnest labor. J. LEO HARTMAN. J. Leo Hartman, one of the most successful educators in the county, now in charge of the Savannah schools which he has brought to a high state of perfection was born in Orange township, August 27, 1876, a, son of Levi and Sarah (Fast) Hartman, His parents are still surviving, his father being one of the prominent and progressive agriculturists of that township. His mother, formerly Miss Sarah Fast, is a representative of a very old and influential family. the Fasts having been among the very early settlers of this county. His father was a teacher in the common schools for a period of twelve years, at the same time devoting the summer months to farming, to which he finally gave his entire attention. He is now numbered among the most extensive stock buyers and shippers in this part of the state. 482 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Upon his father's farm J. Leo Hartman was reared, acquiring his preliminary education in the district schools and later pursuing a course of study in Savannah Academy. He completed his education at Wooster University, and in1896 he began to teach school, being then but twenty years of age. Soon his ability became known and he was numbered among the efficient teachers of the county. For a period of three years his labors were confined to the district schools but afterward he became a teacher in the graded schools of Nankin, where he taught for three years and then spent three years in the schools at Polk, during which period he was instrumental in organizing the high school, which was a much needed and highly appreciated institution. In 1905 Mr. Hartmam came to Savannah to take charge of the school system here and his word has been of such a: high character and so beneficial to the entire school system that he has since been retained here continuously. Although he has gained the reputation of being one of the most efficient preceptors in the county he has by no means given up his desire for a still higher education and while his studies privately he also attends the summer normal school that he may keep abreast with the advanced ideas and methods pertaining to his vocation and make himself of still greater use in his chosen calling. Mr. Hartman holds a teacher's life certificate and for two years was president of the Ashland County Teachers Association, while at present he is secretary of Ashland County branch of the Ohio Teachers Reading Circle. Political atters command much of the attention of Mr. Hartman, who is a stanch supporter of the republican party, and at one time he served as a member of the republican county central committee. In 1908 he was nominated on the republican ticket for the county clerkship, but the district being largely democratic he was defeated although he made a splendid showing at the polls. He is among the progressive young men of the county and is always found favoring such measures as will in any way tend toward community advancement while as a church worker he is also held in high repute, being a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and superintendent of the Sunday school, while at the same time he takes an active part in all affairs pertaining to various departments of the denomination. His fraternal relations are confined to Ashland Lodge. No. 151, A. F. & A. M. Well known throughout the community in connection with political affairs and in whatever might advance the moral interests of the people, he is particularly well known as an educator, his ability in this line being widely recognized so that he is accounted among the strong men who are today handling the affairs of the school system of the county. JAMES E. COVERT. One of the beautiful country homes of the southeastern part of Ashland county is that owned and occupied by James E. Covert, who in 1882 erected a fine residence upon his farm, which comprises one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 8, Lake township. The farm is equipped with all modem accessories and conveniences and presents a most attractive and pleasing appear- HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 485 ance. Upon this place Mr. Covert has lived continuously since 1855, when he came to this county with his parents as a little lad of eight years. He was born in Rochester, New York, on the 10th of July, 1847, and was the only child of John and Esther (Hanby) Covert. The father's birth occurred in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, October 22, 1817. He was a carpenter by trade and also worked in the cooper shop in Rochester. He possessed much natural mechanical skill and ability and could do almost anything in iron and wood work. In 1855, he brought his family from New York to Ohio, arriving on the 9th of November, at which time he took up his abode upon the farm which is now the home of his son James E. The family took possession of a little log cabin in which they lived exactly nine years when the father replaced the primitive structure by a modern farm dwelling. He purchased two hundred and twenty acres of land and in cultivating and improving this made it a valuable property. In addition to tilling the fields he also worked at the carpenter's trade to some extent and operated a. blacksmith shop on his own farm. On the 13th of May, 1844, he was united in marriage to Miss Esther Hanby, who was born in County Down, Ireland, July 10, 1824, and came to America in 1837 when thirteen years of age with her parents, tl family home being established in Rochester, New York. She was the youngest of eleven children born unto Patrick and Esther Hanby. Prior to her marriage Mrs. Covert visited Ashland county, coating in 1839 with her brother, Thomas, who built the Rochester mill on Mohican creek in Lake township, this being the largest mill in the vicinity. It is still stinting—a three-story building with three burrs that is not being operated at the present time. Following her marriage Mrs. Covert resided again in Rochester, New York, for a number of years and then with her husband and family once more took up her abode inAshland county. She died January 25, 1887. while Mr. Covert passed away on the 13th of October, 1890. In his political belief he was a Whig in early life, while subsequently he gave his support to the republican party. Both he and his wife were originally members of the Presbyterian church but after it was disbanded they joined the Reformed church in their home neighborhood and Mr. Covert served as one of its class leaders. They were worthy people, enjoying the warm regard and confidence of all with whom they came in contact, while the efforts and labors of Mr. Covert contributed in substantial measure to the growth and improvement of the county in agricultural and industrial lines. James E. Covert was reared on the old home place where he has now resided for fifty-four years. He worked in the fields through the summer months, while the winter seasons were devoted to the acquirement of a public-school education. He also made substantial improvements upon the farm with the passage of the years, erecting his present fine home, which contains twelve rooms, in 1882. It is conveniently arranged and comfortably furnished, and is one of the fine farm houses in this part of the county. His place comprises one hundred and eighty acres of rich and productive land on section S, Lake township, for he has sold off forty acres of the original tract. A large barn upon the place was built by his father in 1868. The fields are well tilled and he annually gathers good crops, while from his fine orchard he reaps a substantial harvest of apples, peaches and pears, 486 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY On the 17th of December, 1874, Mr. Covert was united in marriage to marriage to Miss Mary M. Hannan, who was born in Lake township, October 18, 1855, a daughter of William and Martha (Sowards) Hannan. The mother died when her daughter was a little girl and the father afterward wedded Mary Goodal and following her demise married Anna Mary Sowards, a sister of his first wife. The death of Mrs. Covert occurred April 28, 1899, and was deeply regretted by her many friends for she had ever displayed sterling traits of character that endeared her to those with whom she came in contact. Unto Mr, and Mrs. Corert were born five children: Walter, who died in infancy; Nellie Irene, the wife of Frank Kilaver, of Green township, by whom she has one child; Robert Roy of Nashville, Ohio; Esther Elizabeth, at home; and Martha L., the wife of Hayes Baxter. Mr. Covert gives his political allegiance to the republican party and is a citizen of progressive spirit, loyal to the best interests of the community. In the fifty-four years which have come and gone since he lived in the county he has been an interested witness of its upbuilding and progress and has been a factor in the changes which have been wrought in Lake township, In his farm work he is energetic and persistent. carrying forwar to successfu completion whatever he undertakes. ELMER SHOEMAKER Elmer Shoemaker, progressive and prosperous. is now well known as a restaurant proprietor and confectioner of Ashland and is a worthy representative of the commercial interests of the city. The was here born August 12, 1862, and is the oldest of the four children of John and Nancy (Heiffner) Shoemaker both of whom were natives of this state. The father entered business life as a miller in Ashland and continued in the same line until-he lost his eyesight in 1904, when he retired. He has always lived a quiet home life and his unassuming manner and sterling worth have gained for him the respect and good will of those with whom he has conic in contact. In addition to the subject of this review the members of his household were: Marion. who was born in 1864 Lodema, who was born in 1867 and died in 1907 ; and Mrs. Grace Ownes, born in 1871. In taking up the personal history of Elmer Shoemaker we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known in Ashland where he has spent his entire life. At the usual age he entered the public schools, mastered the branches of learning taught in successive grades and when he had put aside his text-books he became connected with photography and was associated with that art until 1904. He then opened the finest restaurant and candy kitchen in the city of Ashland and has continued in the business to the present time. He manufactures a portion of the confectionery used and all of the ice cream and he has an extensive family trade. He also manufactures syrups for his large soda fountain trade and is recognized as the leader is his line of business in Ashland, having an extensive patronage, his business having HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 487 increased more than threefold in the last four years. He is always courteous to his patrons and his reasonable prices and straightforward business methods also constitute features in his growing success. Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Shoemaker was married April 8, 1908, to Miss Hattie Shaffer, a daughter of Henry and Sarah Shaffer of Ashland. Politically Mr. Shoemaker is a democrat, and in 1907 was elected city treasurer and received endorsement of his services in reelection for a second term, so that he is now acting in this capacity. His fraternal relations are with the Masons and knights of Pythias, and his religious faith is evident in his membership in the Methodist church. That many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood up to the present time is an indication that his has been an honorable and upright career, meriting the good will and esteem of those who know him. JAMES C. FARQUHARSON. James C. Farquharson, who is largely interested in lumber and milling interests throughout several counties in this part of the state and who is now residing in Savannah, which he makes his business center, was born here April. 18, 1860, a son of Robert and Jessie (Berry) Farquharson, natives of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. who came to this country with their children, Andrew, Robert and Jessie, about the year 1854, first settling at New London, Ohio. The members of the family being affiliated with the United Presbyterian church, remained there but a brief period and then removed to Savannah that they might enjoy the privileges of their denominational faith in this place. Nine children of a family of twelve were all born in this city, where the father departed this life in 1876 ;while his wife is still living at the advanced age of eighty-one years. He was a shoemaker by trade and plied his craft here until death terminated his activities. He was a man whose excellent qualities of character gained him high standing in the community and his high sense of moral duty enabled him to wield a telling influence for good among those with whom he came in contact. of their twelve children eight are now surviving. The common schools of this city afforded James C. Farquharson his preliminary, educational privileges and he subsequently pursued a course of study at SavannaH Academy. However, being aflame with the spirit of industry he early desired to enter the business world and when twenty-one years of age commenced the manufacture of drain tile on his own account and succeeded in building up an extensive enterprise, which he continued to operate for twenty years or until the railroads made it impossible for a manufacturer whose plant was located at a great distance from their lines to compete with the producer who manufactured his commodities near a railroad system, where he might have ready transportation. Mr. Farquharson, however, looked longingly for the time when the railroad would pass through Savannah and still kept up his interest in the tile business, at the same time operating his farm. Finally he abandoned the notionthat this city would ever have a railroad passing through 488 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY it gave up the manufacture of tile and, engaging in the lumber business operated a sawmill. In June, 1905, he purchased a tract of eighty acres of timberland in Columbiana county, to which place he removed during that year for the purpose of erecting a sawmill and obtaining a market for his product. Within the space of two years he had worked the entire tract of land and in 1907 came to this city, where he has since been giving his attention to his lumber interests in Ashland and Richland counties and at the same time managing his farm, which embraces something over two hundred and forty acres, Mr. Farquharson has been successful in all his undertakings and his industry and perseverance have enabled him to become a salient factor in the commercial and financial life of the community, where he is associated with various business interests. On June 15, 1905, occurred the marriage of Mr. Faquharson to Miss Eldora McMillin, a daughter of A. A. and Sarah. (Ferrell) McMillin, of Ashland county. For many years her father plied his craft as a plasterer, later in life, however having recourse to farming for alivelihood. He is still living at the advanced age of ninety-one years, highly respected for his upright life. His wife earered into rest some years ago. Politically Mr. Farquharson gives his support to the republican party and has served as a member of the county central committee for a number of years while he has also been frequently sent as a delegate to county, district and state conventions. He has always been deeply interested in local affairs and before he had reached his majority was elected clerk of the corporation and has since served in that office. Moreover he has performed the duties of township treasurer and also of village treasurer, has been elected member of the village council and also performed the duties of its chief executive. At to his religious convictions Mr. Farquharson is a member of the Presbyterian church, to which his wife also belongs, both being active in the affairs of the congregation, Mr. Farquharson having served for a number of years as treasurer of the Sunday school. His wife, being a talented musician who prior to her marriage was a successful music teacher, renders the church invaluable services in this line. The is also a lover of music, being able to perform on a number of instruments and in this way finds both pleasure and recreation. He belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F .& A. M., and being a man who always has the highest interests of the community at heart, contributing in many ways toward its material and as well its moral prosperity, he merits the reputation in which he is held by all who know him as one o flits municipality's most progressive and representative citizens. ANDREW J. GRINER Andrew J. Griner, who has farm holdings in Jackson township, is now residing in the village of Polk, of which he at present is acting in the execitove capacity of mayor, and also previously served in that office for several terms. He was born in Green township, Wayne county, this state, November 21, 1843, a son of Frederick and Sarah (Kintner) Griner, both of whom came from HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 489 Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, with their parents in the early pioneer days and were among those who assisted in developing the natural resources of this part of the state, in which they attained to considerable prominence. The name Griner is one which gained a wide reputation through these parts through the paternal grandfather, Philip G., who for a number of years kept a tavern at Smithville in Wayne county, the inn in those days being far different from the ordinary tavern of today by reason of the fact that they were not simply drinking places but particularly the meeting places of travelers and people throughout the community, who there entered into discussions of public questions, debating those issues upon which depend the public welfare. The father was an agriculturist, the tract of land he cultivated having been transformed from thick woodland into fertile fields, his son assisting in the work of improvement. At the outbreak of the Civil war Andrew J. Griner enlisted, on August 15, 1862, in Company H., One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving throughout the struggle and being honorably discharged on October 16, 1865. His regiment witnessed much hard service in the army of the Mississippi particularly at the siege of Vicksburg, being present at the surrender. A. J. Grainer participated in six battles with the regiment and for a period of thirty days in the three years was under continuous fire. However, Mr. Griner was fortunate in that he was never taken prisoner nor seriously wounded, although, as in the case of many others, he returned from the conflict with his health greatly impaired. Following the war he returned home and for two years assisted his father on the farm, presently removing to Fayette county, Illinois, where he engaged in farming for about one year. In 1869 he removed to Decatur, Illinois, where for one year he became interested in the grocery business after which for a period of four years he worked at the carpenter trade. In the fall of 1872 returning to Wayne county, he managed his father's farm for two years. and then removed to Medina county, where for four years he followed general agricultural pursuits. Again returning to Wayne county he settled near West Salem, where he followed farming and stock-raising; for four years and in 1884 removed to Burbank, Wayne county, where for eight years he plied his craft as a carpenter. In 1892, Mr. Griner again had recourse to farmining, this time near Albion, where he remained until 1894, when he went. to Polk, where he devoted his time to agriculture and carpentry until February, 1909, when he was appointed agent for the Cleveland Southwestern & Columbus Railway, the duties of which office he is now performing. On January 23, 1863, Mr. Griner wedded Miss Margaret Sands, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Frank) Sands, her father a prominent clergyman of the Reformed church. Mrs. Griner entered into rest April 27, 1904. To this union were horn two children: Grant S. and Lodell G., both of whom reside with their father. Mr. Griner is a republican in politics, taking "an active interest in the affairs of the party and frequently has been a delegate to county and district conventions. Being a man of intelligence and highly respected for his administrative ability he was elected as chief executive of Polk in 1900 and served for two terms. covering a period of four years. In 1906, he was again elected and is still performing the duties of that office. He belongs to McCarty Post, No. 490 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY 182, G. A. R., of which several times he has been commander, having also filled various other offices in that organization, of which he at the present time he commander. Ile is well known throughout Grand Army circles and on a number of occasions has been sent by his post as a delegate to state and national encampments. His religious affiliations are with the Methodist Episcapal church, to which he has belonged for many years and in which also he os am active worker. Being a musician of considerable ability and at the same time a teacher of vocal and instrumental music he finds recreation by this means and since corning to Polk has been chorister in the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Griner is one of the most enterprising and public-spirited men in the community, always ready to further all movements designed for its betterment particularly favoring good roads and schools, and in him the municipality finds one of its most honorable and excellent citizens. C. W. McCOOL. C. W. McCool, one of the representative and respected residents of Ashland has been quite active in political circles as a supporter of the democratic party and has proved a competent and faithful incumbent in various offices. He was born in this county in December, 1858, and is a son of James and Rhoda (Swasick) McCool, the former born in 1821 and the latter in 1825. Mrs. McCool learned a daughter of James and Rhoda Swasick. In early life James McCool learned the miller's trade which he followed continuously until 1860, when he was elected sheriff of Ashland county. He proved so competent in office that in 1862, he was reelected and when he retired from office, at the close of his second term in 1864, he enjoyed the confidence, good will and esteem of his fellow citizens in the same full measure in which it was extended him at the beginning of his official service. Resuming the pursuits of private life he turned his attention to the livery business with which he was connected for a few years, when he sold out and established a grocery store which he managed until 1873. His last days were spent in honorable retirement from labor and he passed away in Florida in 1904, having for about nine years survived his wife who died in 1895. They were members of the Presbyterian church and were worthy people who enjoyed the good will and high respect of all who knew them. Mr. McCool gave his political allegiance to the democracy and was recognized as one of the party leaders in Ashland county. C. W. McCool is the younger of two children, his brother W. A. McCool being now a resident of Pennsylvania. He acquired a public-school education and in early life began clerking in a grocery store. For twenty-one years he was identified wide that line of trade and was well known to the public as an enterprising representative of mercantile interests. In 1896, he was called to public, office, being elected auditor of the county, in which position he served for two terms, after which he remained as deputy in the office of his successor, Mr. Westover, for one year. He has also filled other positions, acting as city treasurer for two terms and at all times has proved a competent official, discharg- HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 491 ing his duties with promptness and fidelity, his course reflecting credit upon himself and proving highly satisfactory to his constituents. From early man-hood he has taken a deep interest in political questions, always keeps well informed on the issues of the day and has never seen occasion to swerve in his unfaltering allegiance which he has always given to the democracy. In August, 1905, Mr. McCool was married to Miss Linda Saal, a daughter of Jacob and Maria Saal, both of whom are now deceased, her father having passed away in 1906, while her mother's death occurred in 1871. Their family numbered but two daughters: Mrs. Emma Myers and Mrs. McCool. The father was a butcher by trade and followed that business for many years, winning success in that line. He, too, figured prominently in connection with the official interests of the county. In 1891 he was elected to the office of county treasurer and public endorsement of his administration was given him in his reelection in 1893. After serving for two terms he retired to private life and for nearly forty years engaged in the butchering business, buying his own stock and doing his own slaughtering. Throughout that entire period he was recognized as one of the leading meat-market men of Ashland. He, too, was a democrat in his politicall views while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the German reformed church, Mr. and Mrs. McCool hold membership in the Presbyterian church and Mr. McCool is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge at Ashland. and both are well known in Ashland and throughout the county, where they have many warm friends who esteem them highly for their genuine personal north. Mr. McCool is known as a very public-spirited citizen, at all times interested in measures pertaining to the general good and giving hearty support to every movement that he deems will advance the interests of Ashland THOMAS C. DONLEY. Thomas C. Donley, residing on a farm in Orange township, has for forty years conducted business as a wool buyer and dealer in stock. He is also widely known as a breeder of fine Jersey cattle and Berkshire hogs and his opinions are regarded as authority on live stock. He is one of Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Nashville township, Holmes county, Ohio, March 2, 1846. His parents were John and Sarah Ann (Alberson) Donley, farming people of Ashland county, the father there carrying on agricultural pursuits for many years. He died on the 23d of June, 1880, and the mother has also passed away. The early life of Thomas C. Donley was quietly and uneventfully passed upon the home farm. Ile received instruction in the. work of the fields as his years and strength increased, while his mental discipline was attained in the district schools and later in the Savannah Academy. After leaving that institution he engaged in teaching school for three years, but during the greater part of his life has given his undivided time and attention to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. Mr. Donley was twenty-six years of age when, on the 5th of December, 1872, he was united in marriage to Miss Iva Ann Smith, a daughter of David and 492 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Rosetta (Rates) Smith. Her father was a native of Wayne county, Ohio, but became a farmer of Orange township, Ashland county, where for many years he successfully tilled his fields. The Bates family is also an old one in this part of the state, their representatives being numbered among the valued and worthy citizens of Ohio. The marriage of Mr. and Mfrs. Donley has been blessed with eight children and the family circle yet remains unbroken by the hand of death. In order of birth these are: Maude L., now the wife of R. R. Reed. of Barberton; John L.,; David C. ; Anna, now the wife of Walter W. Ingman, of Ashland; Stella S., the wife of W. Sampson; Elizabeth; Esther May; and James Paul, who is yet a student. Following his marriage, Mr. Donley settled on the farm which, has since been his home, covering a period of thirty-seven years. He is a breeder of fine Jersey cattle, keeping registered stock both for breeding and dairy purposes, and he likewise raises high grade Berkshire hogs. He is an excellent judge of stock so that he has made judicial purchases and profitable sales. His business interests are all capably conducted and there has been no esoteric phase in his career, his sound judgment and energy constituting the basis of his success. In public affairs relating to the upbuilding of the county Mr. Donley is also actively interested. He has been a member of the school board and was a member of the jury commission for two years, and he has always been a stalwart champion of good roads, good schools and good works. His political allegiance is given to the republican party, and he is an active worker in the party ranks. He belongs to the Presbyterian church with which his wife and family are also connected, and he has not only served as a trustee of the church but has also been a teacher and active worker in the Sunday school with which his wife is connected in similar manner. Mr. and Mrs. Donley are greatly interested in the education of their children, knowing that when they give them good opportunities for mental development and discipline they give to them something which never can be taken from them and which can constitute the basis of honorable lives and substantial success. An air of refinement and culture pervades their home and books and the best periodicals are very generously provided. Its hospitality also reigns supreme and a hearty welcome is extended to all their friends; with which number Ashland's citizens are glad to be classed. SHERMAN WARD BEER. Sherman Ward Beer, who for more than twenty years was prominently and successfully identified with the manufacturing interests of Ashland, was born near that city on the 6th of May, 1837, his parents being William and Mary (Mann) Beer. The father was a prosperous and progressive agriculturist residing two and a half miles south of Ashland. Sherman W. Beer was reared to the work of the farm and obtained such education as the schools of the locality afforded. After starting out in business life on his own account he was for many years connected with the hardware trade in Ashland, and in 1870 he formed a partnership with Jacob J. Kauffman for the manufacture of spring HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 495 beds and cots. This relaton was continued until the death of Mr. Beer in 1894, the enterprise being widely recognized as one of the leading manufacturing concerns of Ashland. Enterprising, progressive, alert and strictly honorable in all dealings Mr. Beer was well entitled to his place among the representative business men and citizens of the county and richly merited the respect and esteem which was uniformly accorded him. On the 29th of April, i.83, Mr. Beer was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Urie, a daughter of Major George W. and Elizabeth (Murray) Urie, of Ashland, who were among the early settlers of this county. Major Urie, who was the first treasurer of Ashland county and also held other official positions of trust and responsibility, passed away in this county in 1898, when he had attained the venerable age of ninety-two years and eleven months. His wife had been called to her final rest in 1861, when fifty-eight years of age. The record of their children is as follows: Mary J., who became the wife of Giles Porter and died in 1875, leaving two children; Alice A., the wife of T. M. Beer; Elizabeth H., who gave her hand in marriage to the Rev. W. W. Anderson, of Loudonville, Ashland county, Ohio; Wilson S., born in 1839, who died when only five years of age; Adaline M., whose birth occurred in 1844 and who passed away at the age of eight years; and Sarah A., born in 1842, who became the wife of Sherman Ward Beer, by whom she had one son, George W. Beer, who was born in 1880 and is a graduate of Cornell University. Though not an active politician, Mr. Beer gave unfaltering support to republican candidates and principles and his cooperation was always given on the side of progress, truth, justice and right. Public-spirited to an eminent degree, he exerted a widely felt influence in the county's material development and upbuilding. His religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church, to which he contributed liberally of his time and means, acting as deacon of the church and also as superintendent of the Sunday school for many years. Fraternally he was a thirty-second degree Mason and exemplified the teachings of the craft in his daily life. His demise, which occurred in Ashland on the 14th of September, 1894, was deeply and widely mourned, his honorable and well spent life having won him the admiration and regard of an extensive circle of friends. His widow still survives and is well and favorably known throughout the community, the hospitality of the best homes being cordially extended her. THOMAS E. THORNBURG. Thomas E. Thornburg needs no introduction to the, readers of this volume, for he is widely known not only in Ashland county but also throughout Ohio. and is one of the leading horticulturists of the state. He has closely studied the best methods of cultivating fruit, understands the nature of the soil required for the various kinds and his products have been so superior in size and quality as to find a very ready sale on the market. Yet it is not alone because of his 496 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY success in business that Mr. Thornburg deserves mention in this volume. He is one of the native sons of the county, representing two of its oldest and most honored families. He was born May 3, 1861, and is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Thornburg. One of his great-grandfathers was Daniel Carter who was the first settler in what is now Ashland but was then a part of Richland county, the year of his arrival being 1811. One of the old cabins which he occupied in yet standing as a landmark in the county and a mute witness of the wronderful changes which have since been wrought. A cupboard which he brought with him to this state is still in possession of the family and Mr. Thornburg of this review, has a large collection of relies which were brought by his ancestors to this district in pioneer times and which he zealously safeguards, valuing them highly. The old homestead of Daniel Carter was in the same locality as the present farm of Thomas E. Thornburg. One of his great-grandfathers in the nraternal line was Michael Springer, who arrived in Ohio in 1815, making the trip on horseback from Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, across the mountains and through the forests where the road was little more than an Indian trail. The greater part of the land was still in possession of the government and he entered three hundred and sixty acres which were covered by the native forest growth. He was therefore closely associated with the early agricultural development of the county, for with characteristic energy he began to clear his fields. The great-grandfather and the grandfather of our subject in the Thornburg line were also early residents of Ashland county. The maternal grandfather, John Springer, also developed a good farm here and it is now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Thornburg, the parents of Thomas E. Thornburg, his mother having spent her entire life upon the farm where she yet lives. She was one ofa family of ten children, the youngest living to the age of forty-six years, whb the oldest reached the ripe old age of about eighty. Both of Mr. Thornburg grandfathers were born in the year 1794 and each passed away at the age of eighty-four, there being only about two months difference in their ages at the date of their deaths. The Springer family came originally from Germany, although representatives of the name were driven from that country into Holland, whence they sailed for America about 1680. The Thornburg were natives of Pennsylvania, the family being established there at an early period in the colonization of the new world. Thomas E. Thornburg pursued his education in the district schools and spent a year and a half at the Vermillion Institute in Hayesville, Ohio. He was reared on the old homestead which, was originally the property of his grandfather, John Springer, and throughout his entire life has devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits, making a specialty, however, of gardening and raising of fruit. He is one of the most practical and successful fruit grower in Ohio, and such is the excellence of his product that it always commands the highest price on the market and is much sought after by the wholesale merchants. It is most carefully sorted out and is always up to the standard, and such is his commercial integrity that his fruit goes without question. At the time of his marriage be located upon the farm which he now owns and operates and in the intervening years he has set out his orchards and promoted their development until his is today one of the finest fruit farms of Ohio. His place was all HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 497 open fields when he took possession of it and the buildings thereon stand as monuments to his enterprise, labor and progressive spirit. In 1888 Mr. Thornburg was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Groeshner, who was born on the 10th of May, 1865, and is a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Groeshner of Ashland. Her father was originally from Germany but for many years has resided in this county and is one of its worthy and respected citizens. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Thornburg have been born two sons, Paul Eugene, whose birth occurred April 17, 1895, and Atley Cecil, who passed away in infancy. In his political views Mr. Thornburg is a stalwart democrat with firm faith in the principles of the party and both he and his wife are members of the Congregational church, in the work of which they are helpfully interested. In all of his business career he has been actuated by a spirit of enterprise and progress that has led man beyond the attainment of others, bringing him gratiflying success and winning for him an enviable reputation as one of the most progressive and well known horticulturists of Ohio. LEWIS M. GROESHNER. The farming and stock-raising interests of Ashland county find a worthy and prosperous representative in Lewis M. Groeshner, of Orange township. His birth occurred in Montgomery township, this county, February 14, 1868, his parents being Henry and Elizabeth (Schneider) Groeshner, who sailed from Germany to the United States immediately after their marriage, taking up their abode in Wooster, Ohio, in 1854. The father, who was a cabinet maker, there worked at his trade for two years and subsequently came to Ashland, where he was engaged in cabinet making and carpentering until called to his final rest on the 16th of April, 1.895. His wife, surviving him for a number of years, passed away may on the 10th of October, 1908. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely: John H., Elizabeth, Augusta,Catherine and Lewis M., all residents of Ashland county; and Minnie, who is deceased. Lewis M. Groeshner obtained his education in the schools of Ashland and since early manhood has devoted his attention to general. agricultural pursuits. He was actively engaged in the tilling of the soil in Montgomery township until 1901, when he came to Orange township and, with the exception of three years spent as a clerk in a grocery store at Ashland, has here since been engaged in general fanning and stock raising with excellent success. His farm presents a neat and well kept appearance and in all his undertakings Mr. Groeshner has met with a measure of prosperity that entitles him to recognition among the substantial, progressive and enterprising citizens of the community. On the 6th of June, 1894, Mr. Groeshner was united in marriage to Miss Anna Luetta Mason, a daughter of Lewis and Mary (Charlton) Mason, of Orange township. Her father, who is a prominent citizen and extensive land owner. is the oldest man in Orange township. Unto our subject and his wife have been born two sons, Cummings E. and Virgil Henry. 498 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Politically Mr. Groeshner is a democrat and, though not an active party worker, has never neglected to cast his ballot at an election. Anything that tends to promote the interests of the county along material, educational and moral lines receives his hearty support and cooperation. Fraternally he is connected with Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F., in which he has filled all of the chairs and is now past grand and a member of the uniformed rank. He is the teacher of the old ladies' class in the Sunday school of the Methodist Episcopal church at Nankin, of which his wife and children are also devoted and faithful members. As he has lived in this county throughout his entire life, he has a wide acquaintance here and his friends know him as a man of sterling integrity and genuine worth. THOMAS N. McKEAN Thomas N. McKean, proprietor of the leading transfer and storage plant of Ashland, is a native of Wayne county, Ohio, born February 16, 1858, and a son of Samuel. and Jane (Miller) McKean, his father also a native of that county, while his mother was born in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania. Samuel McKean's birth occurred in 1833 and in the place of his nativity he was reared, engaging in general agricultural pursuits there until 1868, when he settled upon a farm in this county for three years, later removing to the city of Ashland, where he has since resided. Upon arriving here he engaged in the drayage business, later establishing a meat business which he continued for several years and finally engaged in the manufacture of harness, which industry he pursued until he retired from active life. He is still residing in this city. A democrat in politics he has always taken an interest in the affairs of his party and for a number of years served efficiently as constable. He belongs to the United Brethren church, of which he is a stanch adherent and, being a man whose daily life is in close keeping with the tenets of his faith, he deserves the high measure of respect in which he is held. His wife, born in 1834, came with her parents when a young woman from Fayetteville, Pennsylvania, to Wayne county, this state, where she was united in marriage and after a long life of usefulness she still survives in the enjoyment of a degree of health and vigor uncommon to those of her years. Under the careful attention of his parents Thomas N. McKean was reared and given the advantage of an education in the public schools. Upon completing his studies at the age of fifteen years, being ambitious to start out into the business world, he secured a position as general utility boy in theMiller Hotel of Ashland, where he performed his duties efficiently for three years. Later he devoted one summer to farming, the following spring purchasing a team and entering the general hauling business here. At the time he launched out in this enterprise he only had enough money to pay for one horse and its equipment and the other horse, making up the team, he purchased on credit. This was the initial venture of his present lucrative and extensive business. Little by little, through hard work and good management, he became popular, working HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 499 his way into the drayage business and eventually securing a large portion of the hauling laid out by the commercial establishments of the city. As time passed by and his means increased he associated with his undertaking that of storage and he now owns a first class storage warehouse, measuring twenty-four by ninety feet, the only business of this kind in the city. His trade has gradually grown to large proportions, requiring constantly eleven teams together with a number of hired hands. On October 10, 1881, Mr. McKean was united in marriage to Miss Artha M. Markel, of this city. They have one son, Earl K., who is associated in business with his father. As to his political affiliations Mr. McKean is a democrat, always loyal to the party, particularly with respect to national and state issues. He belongs to Excelsior Camp, No. 3287, M. W. A. and is a member of the Lutheran church, of which he is a liberal supporter and, being a man whose business relations have always been conducted on the basis of honesty, he entertains the confidence of all who know him and deserves mention as a leading business man of the city. ABEL C. METCALF. Abel C. Metcalf, who resides upon a beautiful farm in Lake township, Ashland county, and is engaged in general farming and stock raising, is a member of an old and well known family of this county. The grandfather, Josiah Metcalf, who founded the family in Ohio, came from Pennsylvania with his family and settled near Jeromeville, Ashland county, where he engaged in agriculturall pursuits. His death, however, occurred in Michigan, at the home of his daughter. In his family were six children, George, William, Amos, Vachel, Allen and Nellie. Allen Metcalf, time father of our subject, was born June 17, 1819, on the home farm near Jeromeville, and during his early life ran a sawmill, being thus engaged until his marriage, which occurred January 18, 1844. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Cloudy, was also born near Jeromeville, this county, her natal day being August 25, 1824. After his marriage Mr. Metcalf purchased a farm of fifty-eight acres in Lake township and devoted his remaining days to farming. He later purchased other farm land and at the time of his death his holdings aggregated three hundred acres. He became well known in this part of the county, serving for some time as justice of the peace, while his fellowmen, recognizing his ability and worth, called him to several other township offices. Tie and his wife spent their entire lives in Ashland county, where they passed away, his death occurring December 13, 1878, while she survived until February 8, 1901. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely: Abel C., of this review: Sarah Jane, the wife of L. S, Shearer, residing on a farm near his elder brother; William, who died in infancy; James Henry, of Wayne county, Ohio; Martha, who wedded F. M. Dirrim, a resident of Iowa ; and Sianett. the deceased wife of William T. Murrel. On the old homestead, amid the wholesome scenes of rural life, Abel C. Metcalf was reared to manhood, early becoming familiar with the daily routine