500 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY of farm life and assuming his full share in the work of the fields. He remained with his parents until his marriage, when he purchased his present farm of one hundred and eighty-five acres, adjoining that of his father, upon which he has since resided. On this farm are two sets of buildings and in its midst is a pretty little lake called Lake Martha, When the property came into his possession there stood upon it a small log cabin which subsequently gave place to a fine large house erected by Mr. Metcalf. He has also built substantial and commodious barns and outbuildings, and the farm, known as Prairie View Farm, is one of the finest country homes in this section of the country. Here he carried on general farming and stock raising, and the success which has crowned his undertakings is the just reward of unfaltering industry and untiring perseverance. He is classed among the prosperous and successful agriculturists and influential citizens of this community. In 1870 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Metcalf and Katharine Fulmer, a native of Lake township, Ashland county, her birth occurring June 20, 1851. She is a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Hoffman) Fulmer, both natives of Alsace; France. They were there married and soon afterward came to the United States, spending their remaining days in Ashland county, Ohio. In their family were six sons and five daughters, three of whom died in childhood. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Metcalf were born the following children : Eddie F., who was killed July 13, 1892, while in his twenty-first year, by a runaway horse; Allen J., a resident of Clinton township, Wayne county, who has two children, Leo Clayton and Katharine Freda; Fred D., residing in Cleveland; Ralph W., who occupies the other dwelling on his father's farm and has one child. Evelyn Grace; Bryon R., of Wayne county, the father of a daughter and son, Helen R. and Carl B.; Zeno P., an entomologist, who graduated from the Ohio State University at Columbus and is now with the State Experiment Farm of North Carolina; and Clell L., a student in the State University at Columbus. In his religions faith Mr. Metcalf is a member of the Evangelical church, is a trustee of the church property and is interested in all phases of the church work. He gives his political support to the democracy and lends his influence towards furthering the interests of that party, while on that ticket he was elected trustee of the township; which office be occupied for several years. He has also served as a school official and the cause of education finds in him a warm champion. In his citizenship he is public-spirited, being in hearty sympathy with all measures and movements which have for their ultimate aim the material, intellectual and moral progress of the community, while his sterling qualities have gained for him a high place in the regard and esteem of his fellowmen. CHARLES H. BRYAN Charles H. Bryan was born on his present farm on section 19. Mohican township, his natal day being September 6, 1863. Here he has remained to the present time, covering the period when life was one continuous playtime on through the age when the work of the fields claimed a part of his attention, HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 501 the remainder was given to the mastery of the branches of learning taught in the public schools, and still on to the time when business affairs demanded all of his hours and energies. He was the, grandson of William and Sarah (Kirk) Bryan, the former a native of Virginia while the latter was born in Pennsylvania. The grandfather came to Ohio with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bryan, who settled in Jefferson county, where he had previously entered for them a farm before their arrival. Later Joseph Bryan removed to Ashland county and entered three-quarters of a section of land on the 10th of March 1815. and soon afterward took up his abode thereon. his son William, was married in 181.9 and located on this farm in the same year, making it his home throughout his remaining days, while the great-grandfather, Joseph Bryan, took up his abode on an adjoining farm and there continued to reside until called to his final rest. Joseph Bryan had three sons, Reuben, William and Joseph. the eldest of whom died at Fostoria, Ohio, while Joseph spent his last days in Illinois. William Bryan always continued a resident of Ashland county and here he reared his family, namely: Martha, Sarah, Joanna, Wilson, Washington, Wesley and William P. The last named was the father of Charles H. Bryan. His entire life was spent in this county, his birth having occurred in Mohican township, on the 17th of November, 1838. He was reared to the occupation of farming and continued to follow that pursuit until his life's labors were ended in death. In early manhood he worked by the mouth for about six years and then as the result of his careful expenditure, was enabled to engage in farming, on his own account. He was very diligent in carrying on his agricultural interests, placing his business cares as the foremost feature in his life, so that his close application and persistency of purpose eventually won him a creditable measure of success. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Wachtel, was born in Mohicanville, December 14, 1843, and was a daughter of Jacob and Hettie (Helbert) Wachtel, the latter a sister of Henry Helbert and a representative of one of the leading and prominent family of the county. The death of William P. Bryan occurred November 21, 1908. when he was seventy years of age, while his wife passed away April 19, 1906, They were the parents of six children: Charles, of this review; Mary, the widow of J. B. Botdorf, who resides with her elder brother; Lewis, who is also on the same farm; Harrison, who died at the age of twenty-three years; Dora D., the wife of Ira Myers, of Perry township ; and Isa, the wife of Luther Jones, living in Vermillion township. It will he seen from the foregoing record that the Bryan family is one of the oldest and also one of the best known in this part of the state. Through almost a century its representatives have resided in Ashland county, taking an actuve and helpful part in all measures relative to the public good, while their efforts have been equally valuable in the line of agricultural development here. Charles H. Bryan supplemented his early education acquired in the public schools by study in the Vermillion Institute at Hayesville, and he also engaged in teaching school for one term. However he has given his attention most largely to the further development and improvement of the home farm and the estate comprises one hundred and three acres of land. The soil is rich and productive and brings forth good harvests. Everything about the place is 502 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY indicative of the care and labor bestowed upon it and shows what may he accomplished when intelligent cultivation is brought to bear upon the natural rich soil of Ohio, Mr. Bryan is a democrat in his political views and has filled some local offices, acting as township assessor for two years, while for six yeas he was clerk of the township. He is a member of the Church of God and for the past fifteen Years has been an elder in the Vermillion Synagogue. HENRY HELBERT. Henry Helbert was eighty-two years of age on the 6th of April 1909, hisbirth having occurred in Bedford county, Pennsylvania. He is one of the oldest residents of Ashland county in years of continuous connection with this part of the state, for he was brought to this district in 1835 when a lad of eight years. His parents were Jacob and Elizabeth (Mock) Helbert, who were natives of Pennsylvania, born and reared about thirty miles west of Philadelphia. After their marriage they removed to Bedford county, that state, and eleven of their twelve children were there born, while John Helbert, their youngest, was born in Ashland. Hoping; to secure a home and win success on the western frontier, they made their way to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1835, and the father purchased a. tract of land north of Mohican, on which both he and his wife spent their remaining days. He built the first bank barn in Mohican township and a neighbor made the remark that Mr. Helbert would "never get enough growed to fill this barn.'' However, his crops the first year were more than sufficient to utilize the capacity thus afforded. With characteristic energy he cleared his land and improved one hundred and sixty acres, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation. He also bought one hundred and ten acres additional and afterward gave that to his son. Both he and his wife reached an advanced age, the former passing away at the age of ninety years and six months, while the mother was eighty years at the time of her death. Their children were as follows : Maria, the deceased wife of John Newman; William, who was a twin brother of Maria, and went to California in the spring, of 1849, his death their occurring two years biter; Jacob, deceased ; Michael, living in Vermillion toownship; Rebecca, who became the wife of John Garst and died in 1862; Peter, who died in June, 1908, at the age of eighty-four years in Jeromeville, where he was living retired: Kittie, who married Jacob Wachtel and after his death became the wife of Charles Cosner ; Henry, of this review; Sarah, who is the widow of Henry Wachtel and lives on the old. home place; Levi, deceased; Edward, a resident of Jeromeville; and John, living in Hayesville. The family traveled westward, making the trip with a three-horse team, eventually arriving in Mohican township which was then a part of Wayne county. For a year they lived in the woods in a little log cabin and then removed to a farm in Tree Hollow, about a. mile away from their first settlement. A year was there passed, on the expiration of which period the father purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land a half mile north of Mohican, This was HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 505 in the spring of 1837. The tract was covered with dense timber and in the midst of the green woods he built his cabin. Henry Delbert remained upon that farm until nineteen years of age, when he began learning the blacksmith trade, but after eighteen months was obliged to give it up as he found that he was not enough for the work. He then engaged in farming for his widowed sister for ten years. On the 14th of April, 1859, he was married and in the spring of 1860 removed to his present home which is situated on section 36, Vermillion township. he has erected all of the fine buildings here and now has an excellent property of one hundred and twenty acres. He likewise bought him five hundred and sixty acres adjoining on the south and built the buildings upon that place. He next bought one hundred and eighty acres on section 26, Vermillion township, and also purchased one hundred and fifty acres on section 27 in the same township, so that his total possessions are six hundred and ten acres in Vermillion township, all well unproved with modern equipment and good buihlings, some of the buildings being particularly fine. His father gave him five hundred dollars toward purchasing his place and Mr. Helbert went in debt for the remainder, but in those first few years he was most careful in his expenditures and in time was able to pay off the entire amount on the property. He has had altogether about four thousand dollars given him, but he has given much more than that to his children. His whole life has been devoted to the farm and his unremitting energy and careful management contained the secret of his success. Mr. Helbert was married to Miss Anna Long, who was born November 30, 1836, and when two years of age was brought to Lake township, this county, by hr parents, Peter and Margaret (Barnhart) Long, natives of Alsace, France. Their family numbered three daughters and seven sons, all of whom are yet living. The mother's birth occurred January 5, 1805, and the father was born October 6,1807. In early life they became residents of Stark county, Ohio, and were there married. Peter Long was a tailor by trade and had previously followed that pursuit in Pittsburg for a time, coming to America a year before the lady whom in 1827 he made his wife. They removed from Stark county to Ashland county and for a considerable period Mr. Long engaged in farming but in the spring of 1868 left the farm and retired to Loudonville, where his remaining days were spent in the enjoyment of well earned rest. While carrying on agricultural pursuits he also made clothes for the family. He had one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 7 in Lake township and also eighty acres adjoining. He was a Lutheran in his religious faith and a democrat in his political belief. He filled several township offices, including that of trustee. His wife died December 20, 1875, while his death occurred January 12, 1893. They were the parents of ten children : George W., residing in Hayesville; Peter, who crossed the plains to California in 1852 with his brother George, who returned three or four years later, while Peter remained and is now living in San Jase, California; John M., a resident of Mansfield, Ohio; Anna, the wife of Henry Helbert, whose home is in Vermillion township ; Adam, living on section 7, Lake township; Mary, the wife of G. A. Showalter, of Columbus; Katharine, the widow of Frederick Smith, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Daniel, of Creston. Wayne county, Ohio; William, of Kalamazoo county, Michigan; and 506 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Samuel, of Van Wert county, Ohio. . There has been no death among the children and the youngest was born in March, 1850. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ile]bert have been born seven children: Reason Franklin, who married Rosella Brubaker and died in November, 1908; Jacob Andrew, residing in Loudonville; Ella, the wife of David Leidigh of Mohican township; Peter J., also living in Mohican township; Elizabeth, the wife of Frank Budd, of Ashland; Gust William, a resident of Vermillion township ; and Curtis Lee, who died at the age of seven years. In his political views Mr. Helbert is a democrat but though he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day and desires the success of the party, he has never sought nor wished for public office for himself, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business affairs, in which he is meeting with good success. His entire life has been devoted to the farm and his well directed energy and unfaltering industry have constituted the foundation upon which he has builded his prosperity, he and his family are widely known in this part of the county and the hospitality of the best homes is freely accorded them. GARRETT A. JOHNSON Garrett A. Johnson, a well Kown agriculturist, dairyman and stock raiser of Sullivan township, where he owns a. neat and well improved farm of one hundred and fifty acres, was horn on the place where he now resides, his natal day being July 17, 1852. His parents, Ambrose and Mar (Van Wagnen) Johnson, were natives of Schenectady, New York. Leaving the Empire state, the father made hi.s way to Twinsburg, Ohio, while the mother accompanied her parents on their removal to this state about the same time. The marriage of Ambrose Johnson and Mary Van Wagnen was celebrated at Twinsbur and soon afterward, in 1842, they came to Sullivan township, Ashland county, locating upon the farm where their son, Garrett A, now resides. The place was all covered with timber and their first home was a rude shanty made of boards which afforded shelter until the trees could be cut down and a frame dwelling erected. Ambrose Johnson had been deprived of educational opportunities in his youth but possessed much more than the average natural intelligence and was moreover a man of strong, resolute character and sterling integrity. He continued to reside on his farm in Sullivan township until called to his final rest on the 28th. of February, 1882, his death being the occasion of deep and widespread regret. The demise of his wife occurred February 8. 1896, and thus the county lost, two of its most worthy and respected pioneer settlers whose labors had contributed in substantial measure to its early development and upbuilding. They had become the parents of five sons and three daughter, of whom four sons and two daughters are yet living, as follows: Henrietta, the wife of Marcus DeMoss, of Sullivan ; Joseph O., who is a resident of Wellington, Mrs. Mary E. DeMoss, of Oklahoma; George W., Living in Ashland; Garrett A. of this review; and Charles E., who males his home in Cleveland. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 507 Garrett A. Johnson was reared on the old home farm and supplemented his preliminary education, acquired in the district schools of his native township, by attendance at Lodi Academy. In early manhood he took up the profession of school teaching and subsequent to his marriage he continued teaching for several years in his home district in Sullivan township, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. Upon severing his connection with educational interests he turned his attention to the pursuits of farming and dairying, giving the greater part of his time and energies to the latter branch of activity. He originally dealt in Holstein cattle but in recent years has bred the red polled cattle exclusively. The stock is all high grade and many of his thoroughbreds have sold at excellent prices. His farm consists of one hundred and fifty acres of valuable land, all of which is tillable except a small tract of timber on which there are nearly five hundred sugar maple trees, yielding a generous supply of maple syrup and sugar annually. The place is equipped with many fine improvements and in fact is lacking in none of the accessories and conveniences of a model farming property, of the twentieth century. The various buildings are commodious, substantial and in good repair, the fences are well kept, the ]and is all well drained and the general air of neatness and thrift which pervades the premises indicates the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In all of his business affairs he is alert and enterprising, meeting with the measure of success which always rewards earnest, persistent and well directed labor. On the 19th of October, 1875, Mr. Johnson was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ella Baldwin, a daughter of Rev. C. C. and Martha (Smith) Baldwin. Her father, a minister of the Congregational church, was a home missionary in northern Michigan for several years and subsequently was pastor of a church at Sullivan for a number of years. His demise occurred at Oberlin, Ohio, May 22, 1884, while his wife passed away at Benzonia, Michigan, on the 6th of July, 1893. Like her husband, Mrs. Johnson also taught school for several years prior to her marriage and was widely recognized as a most successful and progressive educator. By her marriage she has become the mother of twelve children, eleven of whom still survive, namely: Bessie E., the wife of Elbert Harvey, of Basin, Wyoming; Mary Grace, who is the wife of Ira E. Garver, of Sullivan; Edward C., living in Ashland, Ohio; Charles A., who resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado ; Arthur B., who makes his home in Spencer, Medina, county, Ohio; Ruth E. ; Leonard G., of Benzonia, Michigan , Kent B. ; Donald V., Lawrence V.; and Harold D. Martha L., the eighth in order of birth, has passed away. The parents, realizing fully the value of good mental training as a preparation for the practical and responsible duties of life, have given each of their children excellent educational opportunities and their hone is liberally supplied with a great variety of the best standard and current literature. Since age conferred upon bun the right of franchise Mr. Johnson has given unfaltering allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and is an active worker in its local ranka. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public trust. He has served as township assessor for many years and was for a long period a member of the township hoard of education, acting on this board when the Central high school 508 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY building was erected. His efforts were also an important factor in the establishment of the Central school system in Sullivan township. He has been a member of the republican county central committee for many years and almost every year is a delegate to the county, district and state conventions of his party. Ilis aid and cooperation can always be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted to promote the general welfare and he is an enthusiastic advocate of good roads, schools, churches and civic improvements of all kinds that tend toward advancement along; material, intellectual and moral lines. he is a valued and exemplary member of the Congregational church, in which he is serving as deacon and as president of the church society. Both he and his wife have been teachers in the Sunday school for many years and their children are also helpful in Sunday school work, some of them acting as teachers. The Johnson home is an ideal American home—modern in its appointments, refined in its environment and hospitable in its atmosphere. Mr. Johnson has never left the farm where his birth occurred and has probaldy lived on one farm longer than any other person in Sullivan township. He is widely and favorably known throughout the community and has won uniform trust and good will by reason of a life which in all of its phases has won uniform trust and and honorable. HARRISON H. OWENS Harrison H. Owens. of Jackson township, who throughout his active business career has been engaged in carpentering and farming, is one of the worthy native sons of Ashland county, his birth having occurred in Orange township on the 15th of November, 1840. The following year his parents, Robert M. and Sarah (Grafton) Owens, took up their abode in Jackson township and with the exception of brief intervals, he has resided here continuously since. Robert M. Owens, who was a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. was twice married and subsequent to the death of his first wife came to Ohio with his family of seven children. Soon afterward he wedded Miss Sarah Grafton, likewise of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, by whom he had three children of whom Harrison H., of this review, was the eldest. Robert M. Owens was a shoemaker and followed that trade successfully until his life's labors were ended in death in March, 1864. He was a man of strong character and convictions and his honorable and upright life won him the esteem and regard of all with whom he was associated. His early political allegiance was given to the Whig party, while later he supported the candidates and principles of the republican party. Harrison H. Owens obtained his education in the schools of Polk and when a little lad witnessed the erection of the first house in the village, the surrounding country being largely covered with timber. In early manhood he became identified with business pursuits as a carpenter and farmer and his efforts have been no unimportant factor in the work of development and improvement that has transformed this region from a wilderness into one of fertile fields and thriving HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 509 towns. In 1859 he went to California and Nevada, being engaged in mining until 1864. when he returned to Jackson township and in February of that year enlisted as a member of Company G, Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which he was made sergeant. William McKinley was major of the regiment. Mr. Owens says active and arduous service at the front until the close of hostilities and was mustered out July 25, 1865, returning to his home in Jackson township with a splendid military record. He still carries the scar of a wound received at the battle of Cloyd Mountain, Virginia. In 1866 he again made his way to California, being there engaged in mining for two years, on the expiration of which period he returned to Jackson township and was married. Subsequently he took up his abode in Polk and has here made his home to the present time, having long been numbered among the substantial, enterprising and progressive citizens of the community. For a number of years he was engaged in carpentering and has also been identified with agricultural pursuits to some extent. On the 28th of February, 1568, Mr. Owens was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Westhover, a daughter of Charles and Sarah (Zimmerman) Westhover, of Perry township, who came here from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in pioneer days. The members of the Zimmerman family were very early settlers in this section of the state and became prominent factors in the agricultural development of the county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Owens have been born four children, namely: Edith V.; Charles, a resident of Ashland; Ella, the wife of Reuben Kopp ; and Jennie, who is the wife of Frederick Hartzell, of Polk. Politically Mr. Owens is a stanch republican and bias been an active worker in the the local ranks of the party. He has served as a member of the village council and also on the board of education for a number of years, ever discharging his official duties in a prompt and efficient manner. Fraternally he is connected with Sullivan Lodge, No. 313. F. & A. M., in which he has held all of the offices, and still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in McCarty Post, G. A. R., of Polk, having also served in the different offices of this organization. Both he and his wife are well and favorably known throughout the county in which they have lived for so long a period, having been interested witnesses of its growth and development from pioneer times down to the present. JAMES L. AND JOHN E. CRONE. James L. and John E. Crone are numbered among the enterprising, successful and representative agriculturists of Montgomery township. Their parents were Tobias and Eva (Mellott), Crone, the former born in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, in October, 1825, and the latter in. Bedford county, that state, Septeimber 13, 1831. In early manhood Tobias Crone accompanied his father on his removal to Ashland county, Ohio, locating here when the district was still wild and unimproved. As time passed he developed a good farm property and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until he passed away in 1897, 510 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY leaving a widow and seven children to mourn his loss. With the assistance of his sons he had accumulated extensive and valuable landed holdings, the different members of the family remaining at home and all working together in perfect harmony and to their mutual benefit. In his political views Tobias Crone was a stalwart democrat and in religious belief was a Lutheran, exemplifying the teachings, of the church in his daily life. The record of his children is as follows: George E., whose birth occurred in 1854; Thomas A. who was born in 18,55 and in 1886 wedded Miss Mary Nelson, a daughter of William Nelson, by whom he has one child, Nancy; Jennie, born in 1857, who passed away in 1891; Francis C., who first opened his eyes to the light of day in 1859; William, whose natal year was 1861; James L., born in 1863; John E., whose birth occurred November 30, 1865; and Harry T., who was born November 13, 1867. Each of the sons has a well improved farm and they are still working together with mutual profit, being widely recognized as prosperous, progressive and end energetic citizens of the community. In 1892 James L. Crone was united in marriage to Miss Flora Kendig, a daughter of Clinton Kendig, and they now have two daughters, namely; Gretchen and Luzetta. Janes L. Crone is now serving as infirmary director, which position he has capably filled for several years and is well known and highly esteemed throughout the community for his many excellent traits of character and genuine personal worth. As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life John E. Crone chose Miss Helen Ewing, a daughter of Samuel Ewing. Unto them have been born the following children : Edna M., Esther M., Arthur E. and Dorothy M. Mr. Crone gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church. The name of Crone has been closely associated with the agricultural development of this county from an early period in its annals to the present time and John E. Crone, like others of the family, has made a creditable record be his activity, enterprise, integrity and success in his chosen field of labor. SAMUEL W. BLACK. Samuel W. Black has now passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten for his birth occurred March 3, 1834, in this county. He was for a long period identified with commercial interests in Ashland but is now living retired in the enjoyment of well earned rest. He not only deserves mention in this volume as one who in business life has always been progressive and enterprising but also as a pioneer resident, belonging; to one of the oldest families in the county. His parents were Samuel M. and Rosanna (Cashdollar) Black. The father, who was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1795, reached a venerable age, passing away in 1887, while his wife, who was born in Pittsburg in 1796, was called to her final rest in 1856. In early life he was employed in the Squirrel Hill coal mine in Pennsylvania but, thinking to find better business opportunities in Ohio, he came to Ashland county in 1825 and purchased, farm HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 511 of eighty acres. For many years thereafter he engaged continuously in agricultural pursuits and then about eight years prior to his demise sold his farm and bought a home at McKay where he lived retired throughout his remaining days. As one of the early settlers he bore his full share in the work of pioneer development aiding in reclaiming this region for the purposes of civilization and in laying the foundation for its present prosperity and progress. His family numbered eleven children, eight sons and three daughters : Samuel W. Henry who was born in 1836; Joseph C., in 1838; Louis in 1842; William; Phillip; .John; Daniel; Katherine; Elizabeth; and Sarah. No event of especial importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Samuel W. Black in his boyhood and youth. He was reared in this county when it was largely a frontier district and he assisted in the arduous task of developing the fields, taking his place at the plow at a very early age. He remained at home until seventeen years of age and then went to Loudonville, where he learned the trade of a baker and candy maker, serving a three years' apprenticeship in that line. At the end of that time he bought out his employer and continued in the business there for four years, after which he sold his establishment and purchased a claim of eighty acres. He was connected with agricultural pursuits, however, for only six months, going to Ashland where he rented a room and opened a bakery which he conducted for four and a half years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Loudonville where he again bought property but in 1865 he sold his farm and invested in realty in Ashland. Here he opened a bakery and confectionary business in which he continued for about thirty years, being recognized as one of the most enter-prising and reliable merchants of the city. He was accorded a liberal patronage because of the excellence of the products which he handled, his reasonable prices and his reliable dealing. In all of his business transactions he was straightforward, never taking advantage of the necessities of another. He always attributed much of his success to the assistance of his wife. It was in March, 1857, that Mr. Black was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Ullman, a daughter of John and Catherine Ullman, the former a farmer then residing near Loudonville. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Black have been born two sons: Henry Joseph, whose birth occurred February 15, 1858, and James Arthur, who was born July 15, 1868. They were both students in Ashland high school and the former continued his education at Greencastle College and entered Methodist ministry in 1884, being assigned to a pastorate at Salt Lake City. Utah. He is now located at North Vernon, Indiana, and is doing good work. Henry Joseph Black was married in 1884 to Miss Hattie Bershing and they became the parents of three children, namely : Dr. H. Benton, Earl P. and Helen M. The last two are living at home and the Doctor is practicing dentistry in North Vernon. The younger son, James Arthur, who was engaged in dealing in stock food, died May 11, 1909. Mrs. Black employs much of her leisure time in painting, and does very creditable work in that art. Both Mr. and Mrs. Black hold membership in the Methodist church and are earnest Christian people, zealous in behalf of the church and all its activities. In his political views Mr. Black is a republican and has ever kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day and served as a member of the 512 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY city council for four years. He well merits the rest which has come to him following his long years of activity in business circles. As one of the early settlers of the county, having lived here for seventy-five years, his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present. He has witnessed much of its transformation a the forests have been cut down and the uncultivated lands have been changed into fertile fields while the cities have been developed through the establishment and successful control of many and varied business concerns. At all times he has borne his full share in the work of public progress, cooperating in many movements for the general good and both as a business reran and citizen he has occupied aa high place in the public regard. GEORGE ARTHUR CASSEL George Arthur Cassel is not only known, as one of the energetic and enterprising farmers of Orange township but is also active in those lines pertain ing to the moral and political progress of the community. His influence is always on the side of right, reform and improvement and his labors have been no unessential element in the work of general advancement. He was born November 24, 1867, in the township where he still resides, his parents being George and Leah (Shopbell) Cassel. He was three years of age when he went to live with George H. and Catharine (Shopbell) Shidler of Orange township, on the farm which is now his home and where the family of his uncle had lived for sixty years. Mr.Shidler had cone from Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1843 following arrival of his father, Peter Shidler, who had removed westward about six years before. The farm has remained in the possession of the family since that time. Mrs. Catharine Shidler, the aunt of Mr. Cassel, was the daughter of Jacob abd Lydia (Ziegler) Shopbell, who arrived in Ashland county in 1832 from Berks county, Pennsylvania. They, too Settled In Orange township and became prominent representatives of the fanning community. Mr. Shopbell lived to the very advanced age of ninety-six years, five months and seven days, passing away on the 6th of March, 1884. It was their daughter Catharine who became the wife of George Shidler. This worthy couple are yet living, Mr. Shidler having reached the advanced age of eighty-six years, while his wife is now seventy-five years of age. They are held in the highest esteem wherever known, their good qualities of heart and mind having won for them the friendship and regard of all with whom they have been brought in contact. George A. Cassel, their nephew, was carefully reared, pursuing his early education in the district schools, and was afterward accorded the opportunity of attending the Savannah Academy and the Ohio Normal University at Ada, Ohio, where he pursued a commercial and scientific course. He won the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1890 and following his graduation engaged in teaching in the home district for two years. While at Ada, he had engaged in teaching penmanship in the commercial department, for he is a splendid scribe. Since 1892 he has been giving his attention to farming and his well tilled fields indicate his careful supervision and practical methods. Fences and buildings are kept HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 515 in good repair and everything about the place indicates the progressive spirit of the owner. While business interests claim much of his time and attention, Mr. Cassel has never allowed agricultural pursuits to preclude his assistance in worthy public movements destined for the benefit of the community at large or the individual. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, elected him to the office of township clerk in 1900 and he has filled that office continuously since, his reelection being unmistakable proof of the able manner in which he discharges his duties and the confidence reposed in him by his fellow townsmen. he has also been a member of the school board for about eighteen years and was clerk of the board for eight years. The cause of education has ever found in him a stalwart champion and his efforts in its behalf have been far-reaching and bebefucuak. He is now and has been clerk of the township board of health, has frequently been a state delegate to the conventions of health boards and is greatly interested in the work. He is also a member of the executive committee of the Men's Federation and is indifferent to no movement which constitutes a feature in the progress of the community for better life and for higher thought. In his political views he is an earnest democrat and for some years was active in the work of the party but recently has given that up for other work. Both he and his wife are members of the church of the Brethren and take a most earnest and helpful part in its various activities. Mr. Cassel became connected therewith in December, 1905, and through the ensuing years his labors have been effective forces in promoting the growth and extending the influence of the church. He is now financial clerk of the church of Maple Grove and is also active in the Sunday school work, realizing how essential it is to impress upon the young an appreciation of the value of the religious life. He is now district secretary of the church of the brethren of northeastern Ohio, covering twentyeight counties, and his labors in this connection demand much of his time. He is likewise the president of the Ashland County Sunday School Association to which he was elected in 1908, and for two years previously he was a member if the executive committee of the association and was a delegate to the twelfth international Sunday school convention held in Louisville, Kentucky, in June, 1908. Two years before he had been a county delegate to the state Sunday school convention. He is likewise agent for the German Baptist Mutual Insurace Association. He was chosen for a three years' term a. member of the county board of visitors, and thus his activities reach out into many lines. He is also a director of the Ashland Young Men's Christian Association which he joined on its organization in 1905, and in this as well as in other lines he is an active. earnest, zealous and effective worker. On the 6th of December, 1894, Mr. Cassel was united in marriage to Miss Clara L. Stone, a daughter of Isaac F. and Margaret (Harris) Stone, of Ashland, where her father engaged in business for some years and was well known as a representative merchant. Both parents are natives of Ashland county and they have always lived in the city of Ashland with the exception of eight years spent in Crestline, Ohio. Mrs. Cassel is in hearty sympathy, with her husband in al of his church work, is a teacher and assistant superintendent in the Sunday school which had an average attendance of one hundred and forty for the year 1908. 516 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY She is also superintendent of the home department work, is president of the Ladies' Aid Society and does her full share in all of the church work. Mr. and Mrs. Cassel are honored and respected by all, not because of the success they have achieved but because of the active and helpful part which they have taken in those lines which work: for character development and for the good of the community at large. They stand for high ideals of Christian citizenship and in their daily lives manifest their faith and belief. LOREN ELZA HEIFNER Loren Elsa Heifner makes his home on one of the fine farms of Orange. township, comprising one hundred and ten acres. Here he carries on general agricultural pursuits and stock raising which, however, is but one branch of his business, for since 1892 he has traveled as a representative of two commercial houses, being now connected with the F. E. Myers Company. He was born November 4, 1861, in Orange township, and is a son of John and Margaret (Cline) Heifner. When five years of age the father came to Ohio with his father, Frederick Heifner, from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. Jonas Cline, the maternal grandfather, was also one of the early settlers, and thus in both lines the subject of this review is descended from two of the old families of the county whose members have been prominent in promoting the work of general improvement and progress as the years have gone by. The Heifner family was established in Orange township while the Cline family settled in Montgomery township, and Mr. Cline followed both blacksmithing and farming. John Heifner was a shingle maker and farmer, and was recognized as an expert in the former line, makng as high as a thousand shingles a day. Energy and enterprise were among his marked characteristics and he possessed a determined spirit that enabled him to accomplish whatever he undertook. He died in 1895 at the age of eighty-three years, white his wife has also passed away. They were the parents of fourteen children, Eliza, Henry, Hyman and Mary, all new deceased, Jesse, Jennie, Lydia, John and Loren E. and five who died in infancy. On the old home farm of his father Loren E. Heifner was reared and the district schools of the neighborhood afforded him his educational privileges. In early manhood he engaged in teaching for a few terms and did excellent work in that connection. He was about seventeen years of age when he began to learn the machinist's trade in the shops of the Cowan Pump Company, and for a few years he was employed in that capacity, but when about. twenty-one years of age he returned to the horse farm. At one time he was employed in a small mill but through an accident lost a finger and then turned his attention to telegraphy. For eight years he was connected with the Erie Railroad Company as an operator, at the end of which time he resigned nod entered the services of the F. E. Myers Company as traveling salesman, having the entire state of Illinois as his territory for ten years. He developed the entire state and has been with the company continuously since, except for a brief period when he represented the Red Jacket Manufacturing Company with Ohio as his territory. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 517 He has made substantial progress since starting out in the business world for himself and has ever been found reliable, energetic and diligent. On the 3d of July, 1888, Mr. Heifner was united in marriage to Miss Laura D. McGuire, a daughter of George W. and Fanny (Carpenter) McGuire, of Fulton county, Illinois. Unto them have been born seven children : Lovie F., who is engaged in teaching in Sullivan ; Cloyd M., who follows farming ; Fanny L., who is attending high school in Mansfield ; Lydia A. ; Eliza M.; Jennie M.; and Laura Daisy. Both Mr. and Mrs. Beifner are members of the Reformed church, in the work of which he has taken an active and helpful part. He served for some ears as deacon and was then elected elder, which position he has filled for a number of years. He has also been an earnest and effective worker in the Sunday school, in which he has served as teacher and chorister. His politicaI allegiance is given to the democracy and he takes an active interest in the work of the party. He believes in good roads, the employment of competent teachers and the utilization of progressive ideas in school work. In fact he favors all public improvement and stands for continued and substantial advancement weight of has never sought nor desired public office, however, but gives the belongs of his influence on behalf of justice, reform and improvement. He belongs to Wadsworth Lodge. No. 119, I. O. O. F. and to the Iowa Traveling Men's Association. and to the Illinois Commercial Men's Association. Wherever he goes he wins friends because of a genial disposition, deference for the opinions of others and a kindly spirit, combined with the substantial qualities of perserverancel and industry which insures success in business life. Aside from his commercial interests he is the owner of one hundred and ten acres of fine land on which he carries on general farming and also stock raising, making a specialty of pure blooded Jersey cattle. In this line he is meeting with success and is recognized as one of the representative business men of his community. EMERSON L. LEIDIGH Well known among prominent pioneer families of the county is the one of which Emerson L. Leidigh is a representative. He was born September 2, 1863, on the farm which is now his home. He has always resided here and the place of one hunched and sixty-four acres covers the northwest corner of section 29, Mohican township. His parents were Levi and Mary Elizabeth (Snyder) Leidigh. The father was born. in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, on the 9th of February. 1819, and he traveled life's journey until the 19th of July, 1887, when he passed away in Mohican township. He came. with his parents from Pennsylvania to Ohio when sixteen years of age, settling first at Jeromeville and his remaining days were passed as a farmer in Mohican township. He owned one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 29. and was also the owner of one hunched and eight acres in Green township. Year by year he carefully tilled his fields and carried on the farm work until his labors brought to him substantial success. His political allegiance was given to the democratic party and he was a member of the Reformed church of Mohicanville. He was a 518 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY son of Peter and Elizabeth (Butt) Leidigh, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, and spent their last days in Ashland county. It was on the 12th of April, 1860, that Levi Leidigh wedded Miss Mary Elizabeth Snider. who was born April 16, 1838, about a mile west of McKay, her parents being David and Mary (McMannis) Snyder. Emerson L. Leidigh, whose name introduces this review, has always resided upon the farm which is now his home. His boyhood days were devoted to the acquirement of an education in the public schools and to the work of the farm, alternating with the pleasures in which youths of the period indulged. As he attained manhood he determined to devote his life to general agricultural pursuits and, remaining on the old homestead, is now engaged in the cultivation and improvement of a. good tract of land of one hundred and sixty-four acres on section 29, Mohican township. It is supplied with all of the equipment and accessories of the model farm of the twentieth century. There is a large barn upon it eighty-four by one hundred feet. In fact this is one of the largest in the county and furnishes ample shelter for hay and also for a large number of stock. It is forty-eight feet to the highest point and has no equal in this respect in the county. It was built by Mr. Leidigh in the spring of 1906. The residence was erected by the father and was remodeled by Emerson L. Leidigh and contains eleven rooms, being one of the fine homes of the county. The place is appropriately named the Fairview Stock Farm, for upon it he raises high grade stock of all kinds, this department of his business constituting an important element in his success. On the 19th of April, 1.894, Mr. Leidigh was united in marriage to Miss Arbie Hoatman, who was born in Jeromeville on the 2d of July. 1876. and is a daughter of John J. and Minerva (Bunyon) Boatman. Mr. and Mrs. Leidigh now have one son, Ralph D., who was born January 2, 1896. In his political views the father is a democrat, giving stanch and unfaltering support to the principles of the party. He is an alert, enterprising business man, readily recognizing and utilizing opportunities and winning his success through honorable and persistent effort. JOHN OBRECHT John Obrecht is well known as a successful general farmer and stock raiser, handling thoroughbred cattle and sheep. He was born in Sweidraheim, Alsace, Germany, May 7, 1872, and arrived in Loudonville. Ohio. with his parents on the 30th of October, 1881. He is a son of Jacob and Marv (Jacobs) Obrecht, who were also natives of Alsace. The mother died in Lake township this county, in August, 1885, at the age of thirty-eight years, and about ten years ago the father returned to Germany and now makes his home in Strassburg. In their family were five children : Jacob, a resident of Missouri; John, of this review; Mary, the wife of Albert Fry, of Canton, Ohio; Maggie, also living in Canton; and Edward, who resides in Vermillion township. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 519 John Obrecht was a lad of nine years at the time of the emigration of the family to the new world. They lived for a year and a half in Loudonville and then removed to a small farm in Lake township. Mr. 0brecht of this review afterward worked out by the month as a farm hand until the time of his marriage in 1890, after which he engaged in farming on the shares for eleven years. At length he purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Lake township and eventually sold that property and in 1904 purchased his present farm, comprising one hundred and twelve acres on section 31., Vermillion township. This is about four miles south of Hayesville and six miles north of Loudonville on the Loudonville and Hayesville road. It is a well improved property, supplied with good buildings. Here he carries on general agricultural pursuits, placing his fields under a high state of cultivation and he also raises considerable stock. He has on hand some thoroughbred Shropshire sheep and four registered Durham cows. Mr. Obreeht was united in marriage to Miss Minnie B. Garst, who was born in Lake township, July 24, 1871, and is a daughter of William and Caroline (Windbigler) Garst. Mr. and Mrs. Obrecht now have four children: Zella, the wife of D. S. Hissem, of Vermillion township; Iba ; Glenn; and Ruth. The family are identified with the German Reformed church of Mohican and Mr. Obrecht gives his political allegiance to the democracy. He has always remained a resident of Ashland county since coming to the new world and is one of the worthy citizens of foreign birth who, thoroughly imbued with the spirit of American Liberty and in sympathy with republican institutions, is active in his championship of ever thing relating, to public progress here. THOMAS H. BEATTTE. Thomas H. Beattie, mayor of Savannah. and one of the most popular men jof the county. prominent in local affairs, was born January 28, 1861, in Butler towship. Richland county, and is the son of James and Susanna (Bryte) Beattie. The grandparents came to America, from Aberdeenshire, Scotland, wih all the members of their family excepting James who, then in his fifteenth year, was hound out to a merchant and could not leave his native land but later joined the family when they had been in this country about two years. The family located in Richland county, where James Beattie was united in marriage and taught school until 1863, when he removed to Pioneer. Williams county, this state, there engaging in the mercantile business. Later he removed of Hillsdale county, Michigan, where he took up farming. Of that county James Beattie, was elected treasurer, the duties of which office he efficiently performed for four years. His death occurred September 15, 1900, while his wife entered into rest September 15, 1885. The early days of Thomas H. Beattie were spent in assisting,, his father in the duties of time farm and while engaged in husbandry he availed himself of the educational advantages of the district schools and when he was seventeen years of age left home and came to Ashland county, where he worked on a 520 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY farm for his uncle, Thomas Bryte, in Clear Creek township, at the same time attending school at Pioneer, Williams county. After completing his education he followed the profession of teaching until he was twenty-one years of age, at which period of his life he settled down to husbandry, and for fourteen years .rented his uncle's farm, which consists of one hundred and sixty-six acres, which he later purhased and of which he is now the owner. His farm is highly improved, well drained and continually under a high state of culitvation and constitutes one of the best tracts of land for general agricultural purposes in this portion of the county. In addition to producing hay and the various grains he takes an interest in stock raising, making a specialty of stock feeding which has become one of the most lucrative departments of his business. He pursued his occupation with unremitting energy until 1903, when he removed with his family to the village of Savannah, where he has since been practically retired although he has not entirely given up his activities referential to his farm but still superintends the various departments of that work. On December 25, 1890, Mr. Beattie wedded Miss Emma. Plank, daughter of Levi and Margaret (Filson) Plank, of Montgomery township, her parents having come from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, immediately upon their marriage, bringing with them all their belongings. Her father was a prosperous farmer who met with such success as to finally become an extensive landowner. He and his wife passed away some years ago. To Mr. and Mrs. Beattie have been born two children, namely: Beatrice and Donald. Although Mr. Beattie has been a very busy man, with the affairs of his various enterprises, yet he has found time to devote to public matters since he considers it the duty of every individual to take an interest in all things pertaining to the weal of the commonwealth. He has rendered the township a number of useful services, having; for a period of six years performed the duties of township trustee and he has also served efficiently for a numbber of terms as a member of the board of education. His excellent administrative qualifications are well known throughout the community and in 1904 he was elected mayor of Savannah, since which time he has served continuously in a most efficient manner in performing the duties of that honorable office. He has done much toward stimulating civic pride and has been instrumental in securing many much needed public improvements such as sidewalks and better streets so that at the present period the village of Savannah is in many respects in these lines the superior of any town of its size in this state. Politically Mr. Beattie is a republican, always loyal to the candidates of his party. Aside from his business and political interests he also espouses the cause of education, is a member of the board of trustees of Savannah Academy and all matters pertaining to educational interests command his hearty support. Together with the members of his family he attends divine services at the church of the Disciples of Christ, is active in its affairs and is a large contributor toward the several departments of church endeavor. In every sense of the word Mr. Beattie is a man of affairs, superintending his large farm, taking an interest in public concerns and also, in connection with admirably performing the duties of his office as mayor, he is active in the financial affairs of the Ashland Savings Bank, of which he is a stockholder. His conservative business judgment is recognized HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 521 throughout the community and his opinions are frequently sought in financial and commerical matters and, on account of his wide experience and excellent success, they generally carry much weight. He owns an elegant residence in the village which is large and modern in its appointments and here he makes his home surrounded by everything conducive to pleasant life. MORENZO C. ROSS. Morenzo C. Ross, energetically and successfully carrying on general farming and stock raising on his place of one hundred and four acres in Orange township, was born in Blue Earth county, Minnesota, on the 22d of September, 1861. His parents. John and Catherine (Bird) Ross, were natives of Holmes county, Ohio, but removed to Minnesota in the early days of its development, the father, who was a carpenter by trade, being attracted to the new country by reason of the great opportunities offered for work as a. builder. They took up their abode in the vicinity where afterward occurred one of the most horrible Indian massacres on record and on one occasion they were driven from their home, being obliged to hide themselves in the surrounding woods and thickets for two weeks. In 1865 they returned to Ohio, first locating in Montgomery township, Ashland county, and afterward coming to Orange township, where they continued to reside until they passed away, the father following carpentering and also engaged in farming to some extent. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ross are still kindly remembered by many who knew them, being people of many excellent traits of character and winning the warm regard and esteem of those with whom they were associated. Morenzo C. Ross supplemented his preliminary education, acquired in the district schools, by a course of study at Smithville Academy and at Ashland College. Subsequently he was engaged in teaching for three years, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired and winning wide recognition as a successful and progressive educator. When twenty-two years of age he was married and brought his young bride to the farm which has since remained their home with the exception of the years 1896 and 1897, when they resided in Ashland, Mr. Ross being there engaged in the hardware business. On severing his connection with that line of activity he returned to his farm of one hundred and four acres in Orange township and has since devoted his attention to the pursuits of general farming and stock raising with well merited success. His land is admirably adapted to the raising of potatoes, to which he gives especial attention. The farm is well watered and improved, presenting in its neat and thrifty appearance the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. On the 16th of February, 1884, Mr. Ross was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Saddler, a daughter of Rev. William and Emeline (Wolfe) Saddler, Orange township, the father being the pastor of Maple Grove church of the Dunkard faith for a number of years. The church is among the earliest in this section of the state and has wielded a wide influence for good, many of the 522 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY most substantial citizens of the community holding membership therein. Rev. Saddler died some years ago but his memory is still cherished by those with whom he came in contact and many whose, lives he helped to brighten and uplift. His widow still survives. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ross have been born four sons; Frank E., Walter, Ray and Harold. Mr. Ross gives his political allegiance to the democracy and has been caled by his fellow townsmen to various positions of public trust and responsibility He has been township trustee for two terms. has acted as a member of the board of education and in 1903 was chosen justice of the peace for Orange township, in which position he has continued to the present time, his decisions being ever fairand impartial. He has also frequently been a delegate to county, district state conventions and is a public-spirited citizen whose aid and influence can be counted upon in any movement or measure instituted to advance the general welfare. In citizenship, in public office, in home and social life, he is a man worthy of the confidence and good will which are uniformly tendered him. GEORGE C. McCONNELL. George C. McConnell, who is now living a retired life after having been identified with the farming and stock-raising interests of Sullivan township for a. number of years, is a native of Jackson township, where his birth occurred August 2, 1841, and a son of Thomas and Margaret (Miller) McConnell, his father having been a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania. and his mother of Baltimore, Maryland. Both came to Ohio with their parents, in 1.833, aand settled in Orange township. Both families made the journey by wagon and on horseback, bringing along the family cow, which was one of the most important accessories to their wagon train. The entire country was then in a primitive state, being thickly covered with woodland, and upon their arrival here their first work was the erection of a log cabin. After providing this shelter they at once began clearing off the land, cutting roads through the forests, bridging the swamps and marshes, and in constructing such buildings on their property as were necessary to the agriculturist. They were an industrious and enterprising people, who, being ambitious to succeed, worked with untiring energy and from year to year increased their prosperity until they became extensive land owners and were numbered among the influential and substantial farmers of the county. Thomas McConnell was well known as a breeder of fine stook and partitularly of sheep. His sturdy qualities of character enabled him to wield a strong influence for good in the community. He departed this life in March, 1876, his wife surviving him thirty years, her death occurring in August, 1906. In their family were two sons and three daughters, .namely: George C.; Thomas M., who served during the Civil war in Company B., One Hundred and Seventy- eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and lost his life in the service; Rachel, who became the wife of Cromwell Marsh, residing in the state of Washington; and Adeline, who is the wife of M. Frink, of this township. The fifth child is deceased. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 525 In the district schools of the county, George C. McConnell acquired his education and there enjoyed many happy experiences which his memory still retains, abd to which he delights to revert. He recalls with pleasure the fact that he was one among the boys who were chosen to stand guard at the schoolhouse door for the purpose of keeping out the snaks. While they were of a harmless variety their presence was not wanted by the schoolmaster as they were a means of doing anything but preserving the good behavior of the pupils and in order that the reptiles might be kept within their own territory, it was customary to have the older boys take turns in standing at the doorway to prevent them from entering. He had not long completed his studies when the Civil war broke out, and in 1861, at the first call for volunteers. he enlisted in Company B, Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which regiment he served three months. He participated in the first battle of the war which inch took place at Philippi, West Virginia, and after the engagement he assisted the surgeon of the regiment in the first operation performed upon a wounded Confederate soldier who had been taken prisoner. On the 5th of October, 1862, he reenlisted in Company K, One hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was mustered out in June, 1865, as second lieutenant. HIs regiment nvent participated in sonic of the hardest fought battles of the war, and at Decatur. Alabama, in October, 1864, he was struck by a. piece of shell and twice by bullets from sharpshooters, both bullets having been fired within a few minutes of each other and striking him almost in the same place, but as the bullets had cone from a great distance and had practically lost most of their force they did little damage. After the war Mr. McConnell engaged in farming and the dairy business in Jackson township, where he remained for five years, his first dwelling house being a log cabin, He then removed to this township December 2, 1885, and located on the farm he now cultivates. In 1894 he took up the grain and elevator business in the village of Sullivan, and for the subsequent five years handled a large trade in hay and grain, at the same time cultivating his farm and attending to his dairy and stock interests. Since the year 1899 he has continued to live on his farm but has withdrawn from active life and does little but superintend on his farm work and take care of his financial interests. His farm contains three hundred and twenty-five acres of excellent land, all of which is highly improved and well drained. It is provided with a comfortable home, substantial barns and outbuildings, with every rod of fencing in excellent repair, and in fact the premises are equipped with every convenience with which to make his farm thoroughly modern. In February 12, 1865, while at home as a recruiting officer, Mr. McConnell was united in marriage to Miss Charlotta Whitcomb, daughter of Horace and Jane (Toms) Whitcomb, her father having been a native of Vermont and her mother of Auburn, New York. Mr. Whitcomb came to Sullivan township in 1835, preceding his wife by three years, and here he followed general farming and stock raising until his death, in June, 1886. His wife departed this life March 19, 1905. To Mr. and Mrs. McConnell have been born five children, namely: Thoma H., deceased; Horace H., of Milford Center, this state; Curtis M., of 526 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY Woodstock, Ohio; Morris W., of Detroit, Michigan; and Addie May. who became the wife of Leroy Taylor, the couple residing here. Mr. McConnell is a democrat and has taken an active part in politics and frequently officiated as delegate to county, district and state conventions. HIs intelligence and good judgment, together with his knowledge of public affairs have made him very useful in the community and he has served twelve years as township trustee and for many years as a member of the board of education. He has always been an advocate of public improvements and foremast among those in favor of promoting every movement having for its object better roads and a better school system. Mr. McConnell is a comrade of Fuller Smith Post, No. 356, G. A. R., of which he has been commander for thirteen years and the organization has made him a delegate to almost every state and national encampment. Amid all his business affairs and various experiences he has always found time to perform his religious obligations and attends divine services at the Congregational church, of which he and his family are members and liberal supporters. He is very fond of travel in which he finds entertainment and recreation and has ample means with which to gratify his longings. Mr. McConnell is one of the most highly respected men of the community and a man whose association is both pleasurable and instructive and his home is know throughout the county for both its culture and hospitality. L. C. GALLOWAY The home farm of L. C. Galloway is pleasantly located about, a half mile northwest of Mohicanville, and comprises the northwest quarter of section 32, Mohican township. His residence is a good brick dwelling and the enterprises and energy which he has displayed in his business affairs has enabled him to provide comfortably for his family. He is numbered among the substantial residents of this part of the state, placing his dependence upon indefatigable energy and constant watchfulness in his efforts to acquire a competence. His birth occurred in Vermillion township, this county, on the 11th of December, 1856, his parents being William G. and Ann (Bradley) Galloway The father was a native of Juniata county, Pennsylvania., and in early life came to Ashland county with his parents, who settled in Vermillion township. The grandfather of our subject was also a native of the Keystone state and was of Scotch descent, five brothers of the family coming from Scotland to America in colonial days. The grandfather, thinking to have better opportunities to provide a good home for his family on the frontier, removed westward to Ohio and, as much of the land was still in possession of the government he entered a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, comprising a quarter section in Vermillion township. There he made his home throughout his remaining days and prospering as the years went by be purchased another quarter section in land lying in Green township. With characteristic emerge he began the development of his farm. performing alll the arduous labor incident to the HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 527 transformation of a forest tract into cultivable fields. His family numbered seven children, Thomas, William, James, Joseph, Jane, Elizabeth and Sarah. William G. Galloway, the father of our subject, assisted materially in the improvement of the new farm, cutting down the trees grubbing up the stumps, burning the brush and turning the first furrows. The work of plowing and planting was then carried on and in course of time the result was entirely satisfactory, for the rich soil of Ohio brought forth substantial crops. In community affairs he was also active and served as justice of the peace for many years. He was likewise infirmary director for two terms and in all public interests displayed a loyalty to the general . welfare that was most commendable. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and his opinions bore considerable weight in the local councils of his party. Having arrived at years of maturity he married Ann Bradley, a native of Maine, who was brought by her widowed mother to Ashland county at the age of six years. She had two brothers; James, who resided in Green township throughout his entire life; and John, who drove with a threshing machine to Tama county, Iowa, and spent his remaining days in that locality. The father died in 1880 and the mother passed away December 5, 1877. In their family were five children : Mary Jane, the deceased wife of Albert Shoup; Joseph, who married Jane Brubaker, and both are now deceased; Nancy, who is the widow of Albert Carroll and resides in Vermillion township; Margaret, the deceased wife of Jasper Cams; and L. C., of this review. L. C. Galloway remained in Vermillion township until twenty-two years of age, attending school and working on the farm. He then began work as a railroad section man, in which capacity he was employed for a short time and later worked by the month for Janes Humphrey, as a farm hand. He was thus employed for four years at the end of which time his father passed away and he began farming for himself on the old homestead. At the age of thirty years he was married and for a year thereafter lived upon the Crown farm. In 1888, he came to his present farm, where he has resided continuously since. The place comprises one hundred and sixty acres, which was formerly the property of his father-in-law, Henry Wachtel, whose widow resides with Mr. and Mrs. Galloway. This is a well improved farm, supplied with good buildings. Upon the place is a large bank barn, seventy by forty feet, with other commodious outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. it is a pleasant location within a half mile of Mohicanville, enables him to secure all of the advantages afforded by the town and at the same time enjoy the opportunities of rural life. In addition to this property Mr. Galloway owns one hundred and sixty acres in Vermillion township, just south of Hayesville, which is operated on shares. On the 27th of October, 1887, Mr. Galloway was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Wachtel, who was born in Mohicanville in 1866, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Helbert) Wachtel. The mother was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1828, and when six years of age came to this county with her parents. Mention of the Helbert family is made in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert, on another page of this work. The father, Henry Wachtel, was born June 16, 1829, in Wayne county, Ohio, and died in Mohicanville, December 25, 1889.He was only two years of age when his mother 528 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY died and his father afterward removed to Mohican township, Ashland county, where his remaining days were spent. Henry Wachtel also continued a life long resident of Mohican township and was prominent in business circles, conducting a general store in Mohicanville for twenty-six years. He also had a store in Shreve for six and a half years and was interested in a store in Perrysville, the extent of his business affairs making him one of the prominent and influential residents of this part of the state. He also was at one time the owner of the farm on which Mr. Galloway resides. Be married Sarah Helbert, who still survives her husband and is now living with Mr. and Mrs. Galloway. Their children were seven in number : Mrs. Mary Humphrey, who died at the age of thirty-two years, leaving two daughters ; Jacob Milo, who died in childhood; John Willis, who died in July, 1907, leaving a widow and three Children: George Edmond, who is a widower and has two children, their home being in Toledo, Ohio; one who died in infancy; Mrs. Galloway; mid Charles Henry, who died at the age of two years and ten months. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Galloway was blessed with one son, Glenn W., who was born August 23, 1891, on the farm where he is still living with the parents. Both Mr. and Mrs. Galloway are representatives of old and well known families of this part of the state and are highly esteemed in the community where they live. Their influence is always on the side of progress and improvement and their labors have been effective in promoting the general welfare. Mr. Galloway is well known as one of the leading agriculturists of this part of the county, manifesting a spirit of undaunted progress in all that he does, while at all times his labors are practical, winning substantial results. R. L. GLENN. R. L. Glenn, of Ashland a member of the firm of Reep & Glenn, liveryman was born in Green township, Ashland county, November 13, 1853. His grandfathers, Joshua Glenn and William Ewing, early settlers of this county, located in Mohican township, where they spent their lives in the pursuit of agriculture, He is a son of William and Caroline (Ewing) Glenn, both natives of this county Mr. Glenn during his career engaged in farming at different times in Green, Milton, Montgomery, Vermillion and Mohican townships, his latter years being spent in the last named place, where he passed away February 17, 1905. Upon his father's farm during his boyhood days, R. L. Glenn passed through the usual experiences common to the country lad, in the summer months engaging in the daily routine of agricultural life and in the winter acquring his education in the public schools, remaining at home until he was united in marriage, all the while assisting his father. In 1876, he left home and started to farm for himself, locating on a tract of land owned by his father in Vermillion township, where he remained until 1883 when he removed to a farm in Milton township. That tract of land was also the possession of his father and there he remained for thirteen years, at the termination of which time he returns to Vermillion township, where he pursued agriculture for three years and then HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 529 moved to Jeromeville, this county, where he established himself in the hotel and livery business, continuing in it until 1907, when he came to this city and for a time engaged in buying and selling horses. He also worked for about eight months in the Erie freight depot and on August 7, 1908, he purchased Ike interest of M. Roberts of the firm of Reep & Roberts, liverymen, and has since been an active partner in the enterprise, the company being now known as that of Reep & Glenn. Mr. Glenn wedded Phoebe E. Carr, of Vermillion township, by whom he has one son, James W., a graduate of Jeromeville high school, who resides at home with his parents. Mr. Glenn votes the republican ticket and his interest in local affairs is made manifest by the fact that he served for a number of terms on the school board in Jeromeville and has also officiated in a number of other minor offices. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 154, K. P., in which he is well know for his activity and being a man of Strong character and excellent business acumen, whose enterprise and industry have not only brought him prosperity but also enabled him to appreciably enhance the commercial worth of the city, he merits the reputation he bears as one of its leading business men. A. L. SHERICK, M. D. There is no profession so little commercialized as the practice of medicine and surgery. This is manifest in the fact that the medical fraternity are continually giving to the public facts concerning the best methods of preventing as well as checking disease and are continually laboring to bring about conditions which will promote the general healthfulness. Dr. Sherick stands as a high type of the conscientious, able physician whose careful diagnosis and well applied skill have made him a forceful factor in the line of activity which he has chosen as a life work. A native of Ashland county, Ohio, he was born on the 19th of June, 1856, and was the fifth in the family of David and Susan (Jacobs) Sherick. Six of their children are still living. The father was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1823 and is now living in Seneca county, Ohio. He was for many years identified with farming interests but has now reached the age of eighty-five years and has retired from active participation in agricultural lines. His wife passed away in 1863. On the old homestead farm Dr. Sherick was reared and when he had become of sufficient age he assisted his father in the work of the fields through the summer months, while in the district schools he acquired his education in the winter seasons. When about sixteen years of age he became a student in the Burbank Academy, where he remained for one year, after which he spent two years in study at Lodi, Ohio, and a year and a half in Baldwin University at Berea, Ohio. During the summer months he assisted his father on the farm. Dr. Schuyler, who was then president of Baldwin University, watched Dr. Sherick working out a problem on the blackboard one day and at length said, "Stick to it, young man, and you will come out all right;'' for the perseverance 530 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY which he displayed caused Dr. Schuyler to realize that there was in in him a force of character that would enable him to overcome greater difficulties and obstacles in later years. The same quality has characterized his entire life and given him high standing in his profession. Having determined upon the practice of medicine as his life work, he entered the Toledo Medical School, connected with St. Vincent's Hospital, and was the first to matriculate in this school. After remaining there for six months he entered the Bellevue Hospital Medical College of New York, from which he was graduated in due time, after which he devoted his time and energies to general practice for about thirteen years. He then pursued a four months' course in a post-graduate hospital of New York and about six years later again spent six months in the post-graduate hospital of New York. He likewise continued his studies in the post-graduate hospital in Chicago and in July, 1908, entered upon. a course in Berlin, Germany, where he carried on his investigations for six months. During that time he received special instruction from Professors Bumm and Kramer in clinical work pertaining to gynecology and operative surgery. he was also connected with the Bier clinic, where he spent five months in surgical diagnosis and operative surgery. He likewise spent three months in connection with Professor Hailey in the study of diseases of the nose, throat and ear and in addition to all this pursued a course in cystoscopy under Professor Frank. He returned to America with a mind greatly enriched with the knowledge that he had gained abroad and thus with renewed abHity, energy and zeal he resumed his life work. He again reached the United States on the 1st of March, 1909. While abroad he had also visited the Rotter Hospital, a Catholic institution, and saw many operations by Professor Israel and Professor Crowser. He likewise witnessed a number of operations in Ewald Hospital on the intestines and on the brain and visited Professor Auldhousen's hospital and clinic, where much surgical work was done in his presence. he is regarded today as one of the learned representatives of the profession in Ohio, his ability carrying him into important relations in his chosen field of labor. While he continues in the general practice of medicine, he is yet well versed in several special lines and his ability is evidence in the splendid success which attends his labors. In addition to his professional interests Dr. Sheriek is a stockholder in the Reliable match factory of Ashland and in the Ashland Steel Range Company. In 1883 was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Sherick and Miss Ruth Thomas, who was born in this county and is the daughter of Peter Thomas, Sr. They have two sons, Charles T. and Clyde C. The elder, after completing a course in the Ashland high school, entered the high school at Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he remained for three years and is now in business in this city. being one of the stockholders of the Reliable match factory. Clyde C. Sherick was educated in the Ashland high school and the Ohio State University, where he pursued a four years' course and was graduated with the Bachelor of Arts degree, whHe in June, 1910, he will complete the course of law in that institution. He is much in advance of his class now, with a grade averaging from ninety-six to ninety-eight. Both sons are bright young men who have done excellent work in school and of whom the parents have every reason to be proud. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 531 Mrs. Sherick holds membership in the Disciple church and the Doctor is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows; the Ashland County Medical Society, of which he is serving as president: Fifth District Medical Society; Ohio State Medical Society; and the American Medical Association; while his political allegiance is given to the republican party. He has made continuous progress in his profession, holding to high ideals in all of his work and the value of his service is widely recognized, not only by the general public but by the profession as well. WILLIAM HESS. William Hess, whose life of usefulness and activity was terminated on the 28th of March, 1909, was for many years numbered among the representative substantial and public-spirited citizens of Ashland county. He was born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, March 13, 1848, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Flack) Hess. When but five years of age he accompanied his parents on their removal from the Keystone state to Ohio, the family home being established on a farm in Jackson township, Ashland county. On that farm William Hess grew to manhood, was married, reared a family and spent the remainder of his life, covering a period of more than fifty-six years. In his agricultural interests he met with a gratifying and well merited measure of success, being widlly recognized as a most prosperous and influential citizen. On the 29th of October, 1868, Mr. Hess was united in marriage to Miss Lydiann Shopbell, a daughter of Jacob and Lydiann (Sigler) Shopbell, her girlhood home being the old Shopbell farm near Leidigh's Mill in Orange township, one of the landmarks in Ashland county. Eight chHdren were born unto them. as follows: Mrs. Henry Switzer, of Orange township; Elizabeth, who died at the age of two years; James, a resident of Polk; Vinnie, who died when but six years of age; Almeda, who became the wife of Roscoe Emmons and was called to her final rest November 15, 1901; Franklin, who died in infancy; Leroy, at home; and Mrs. Ray Kopp, of Orange township. For four decades Mr. and Mrs. Hess traveled life's journey together and shared with each other its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years went by. Mr. Hess is survived by two sisters, namely: Mrs. Susan Jacobs, of Lattasburg; and Mrs. Lucy Myers, of Fredonia, Kansas. In his political affiliation Mr. Hess was a stanch democrat, never wavering in his allegiance to the party in the slightest degree. One of the local papers, in a review of his life, said: "In every campaign he was the embodiment of enthusiasm and energy. A firm believer in the party primary, he believed the party should make its fight there and then support the successful candidates at the general election. Nobody ever accused William Hess of being a `sorehead' or being disgruntled or of treachery. His unswerving loyalty was for a generation taken as a matter of course. At the time of his death he was central committeeman from Jackson township, an office he had held for years. In every county, state and national campaign for twenty years he was a member of the committee 532 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY named to assess candidates. No matter who the other members might happen to be, William Hess of Jackson township was always sure to be one. He was always regarded as the soul of honor. In 1890 he was elected county commissioner, taking his office January 1, 1891. He held the position for two terms, or six years, and that was all he ever asked of the party he had served so long and faithfully. A good many men in politics only work for themselves, If they win an office that ends their party service. If they fail they become disheartened and disinterested. Not so with William Hess. He always worked, in every campaign, for others. It is doubtful if there is a man in the county the either party, who has done as much work, gratis, for others as he did during the last quarter of a century. Nowhere outside the home circle wHl he be missed more than in the councils of his party. " In his death the county lost one of its most respected, honored and useful citizens, his associates a kind and helpful friend and his famHy a loving husband and indulgent father. JOHN E. SHOPBELL Among the enterprising and progressive farmers of Orange township is numbered John E. Shopbell, who owns and cultivates an excellent farm of one hundred and seventy-four acres which constitutes one of the best improved properties of the locality. He is also a representative of one of the most prominent pioneer families of Ashland county. The ancestry of the Shophbells can be traced back to the time of the persecution of the Huguenots in France the great-great-grandparents of Shopbell having been beheaded because of their religious belief, while their bodies were thrown into the River Seine. Their son, Eberhart Shopbell, was a witness to the horrible fate of his parents. but managed to escape and made his way to America with eight companions, becoming the founder of the family on the soil of the new world. He located in Pennsylvania where the family lived for some time his son, Daniel Shopbell. the grandfather of John E. Shopbell, espoused the cause of the colonists at the time of the Revolutionary war and served for several years under Geneal Washington, thus giving valuable aid to the cause of liberty. With his family he afterward removed to Ashland county, Ohio, and since that time the Shopbells have resided in this part of the state. He was prominent in the early affairs of the county, active in its development and helpful in establishing its political, legal and moral status. His son, Samuel Shopbell, was also very prominent here, taking an active part in many progressive public movements, while in the private interests of life he followed farming and became an extensive land owner and dealer in stock. He married Sophia Cassel, also a representative of one of the old and prominent family of the county. They became the parents of seven chHdren: Jacob, Margaret, Sarah, Alice, Sophena, John E.. and Ada. Both the oldest and youngest are now deceased. The father passed away March 14, 1908, at the venerable age of ninety-eight years, a life of usefulness, activity and honor being thus ended. He had for almost three years survived his wife who died June 4, 1905. HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 535 John E. Shopbell spent his youth upon his father's farm and is indebted to the district schools of his native township for the educational privileges he received. His youth passed in the manner of most farmer boys, quietly and uneventfully, and yet he formed habits which have borne rich fruit in his later years, making him a substantial and a successful citizen. Having arrived at years of maturity, he was married on November 25, 1888, to Miss Nettie B. Lindsay, daughter of Robert and Mary (Gibb) Lindsay, who were a prominent family of Ruggles township. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shopbell has been born one son, Clifford D. Following his marriage Mr. Shopbell engaged in farming in Huron county, Ohio, for two years, and then removed to Clear Creek township, in Ashland county, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits for seven years. On the expiration of that period he came to his present farm in Orange township, om 1902. Here he has one hundred and seventy-four acres of land that is rich and arable and through his careful cultivation he has been enabled to gather abundant crops annually. He engages in general farming and in stock raising and is recognized as one of the most prominent and progressive agriculturists of the county. He uses the latest improved machinery to facHitate the work of the fields and his capable management of his business affairs has brought to him gratifying and substantial success. In public affairs Mr. Shopbell is also actuated by a spirit of advancement and enterprise, and cooperates in the various movements put forth for the welfare and upbuilding of the county. He is a member of the township board education and a true friend and champion of the public schools. Both he his wife are members of the Baptist church and are interested in every effort to advance moral progress and higher citizenship. His political allegiance in given to the republican party and while he does not seek office he desires the adoption of those principles which he deems will prove of greatest good to the community and country at large. PERRY C. MOFFETT. Perry C. Moffett, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and forty-seven acres in Orange township, was born in Lee township, Monroe county, Ohio, on the 25th of December, 1856, his parents being Francis and Hannah E. (Mitchell) Mofett, both of whom are now deceased. The father was a sailor in early life but afterward gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits. In the acquirement of an education Perry C. Moffett attended the district schools of his native county and spent his youthful days on the home farm, thus early becoming famHiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Subsequent to his marriage he was busily engaged in the tilling of the soil in Monroe county until 1901, when he came to his present place of one hundred and forty-seven acres in Orange township, where he has since carried on general farming and stock raising with gratifying success. The property 536 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY is well improved and the fertHe fields annually yield rich harvests in return for the care and labor that is bestowed upon them. On the 29th of August, 1880, Mr. Moffett was united in marriage to Miss Louisa A. Strickling, a daughter of Joshua and Margaret A. (Baker) Strickling, both of whom have passed away. In early manhood the father was identified with educational interests as a school teacher but later took up farming in Monroe county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Moffett have been born six children, namely: Joshua, Margaret A., Elsie A., Edith M., WHbert P. and Annavelle. Politically Mr. Moffett is a stalwart republican and has served as school director in both Monroe and Ashland counties, the cause of public instruction finding in him a warm friend. He is a public-spirited citizen whose support can be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted to advance the general good and is a strong champion of all that tends to develop the community along material, intellectual and moral lines. The members of his family belong to the Disciple church, in which he has been an active Sunday school worker and is now serving as elder. In their attractive home Mr. and Mrs. Moffett dispense a pleasing and gracious hospitality to their extensive circle of friends, who esteem them highly because of their many excellent traits of heart and mind. GEORGE M. HEFFELFINGER More than a century ago George Washington said that, "agriculture is the most useful as well as the most honorable occupation of man." It is a well known fact that it is the basis of all prosperity for if crops are not abundant depression follows in all lines of trade. Upon the fanner, therefore, depends the growth and prosperity of the country at large. George M. Heffelfiner is among those who have done much to promote agricultural progress in this section of Ohio. He now owns and operates a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southwest quarter of section 4, Lake township and pleasantly situated a mile south of McZena. His birth occurred in Washington, township, Holmes county, Ohio, April 12, 1861. He was the eldest of a family of nine children whose parents were George and Solome (Wenner) Heffelfiner, natives of Alsace, France. The other sons and daughters of the household are as follows : Barney, living in Hanover township; Charles A., whose home is in Washington township, Holmes county; Henry; Minnie, the wife of .John Snively, Anna, the wife of Charles Arnholt, of Loudonville; Alice, who is living with her mother; and Joseph and Fred who are upon the home farm in Washington township. Working in the fields through the summer months and attending the district schools in the winter seasons George M. Heffelfinger thus spent his boyhood days and gained that practical experience which qualified him for carrying on farming on his own account. He resided in the place of his nativity until he purchased his present farm in 1900. It has since been his home and indicates in its well kept premises the care and labor which he bestows upon it. The fields HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 537 are richly cultivated and in the midst of the former stands a fine residence and commodious outbuildings, furnishing ample shelter for grain and stock. In 1901 he erected a large bank barn, thirty-six by ninety-one feet and the other buildings upon his place are equally substantial. He gives his attention to general farming and stock raising and his success follows as the logical sequence of his industry and perseverance. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Bank of Loudonville and is regarded as a man of good business judgment and unfaItering enterprise. In 1885 Mr. Heffelfinger was married to Miss Anna Hyde, who was born in Knox township, Holmes county, Ohio, May 30, 1862, and was a daughter of Frederick and Katharine (Myers) Hyde, who were natives of Alsace, France. The mother arrived in Ohio at the age of seventeen years, while the father was brought to the United States by his parents when three years of age. They are still residents of Knox township, Holmes county. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Heffelfinger has been blessed with two children: Clarence Earl and Ada. Mr. Heffelfinger is a member of the Trinity Evangelical church of Londonville and is interested in all that pertains to the material, intellectual, social and moral progress of his community. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and he is serving for the seventh consecutive year as trustee of Lake township, having first been appointed to fill a vacancy while twice he has been elected to fill the office. He is connected with the Patrons of Industry and is intersted in all those things which are factors in the upbuHding and development of the community. He stands as one of the representative agriculturists of Lake township, meeting with well merited success, owing to his unflagging industry, and perseverance. JOHN E. SPRENG. John E. Spreng, who has charge of the billing department of the F. E. Myers & Brother Machine Shops and who deserves honorable mention as an able business man of Ashland, was born in Wayne county, February 3, 1856, a son of Christian and Julia (Grimm) Spreng, his father a native of Alsace, Germany, and his mother of Bavaria. The former came to this country with his parents when he was sixteen years of age and the latter with her parents when she was in her ninth year, both family locating in Wayne county. where Christian Spreng was united in marriage. Subsequently he and his wife removed to Clinton township, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits and thence went to Congress township, then to Akron, Ohio, where they spent six years, and thence to Naperville, Illinois. where they spent their remaining days, Mr. Spreng entering into rest February 22, 1908, in his ninety-first year, while his wife passed away in 1899 at the age of seventy-seven years. He supported the republican party but he never aspired to hold public office. Both he and his wife, being of a literary turn of mind, were broad readers of general literature and were thoroughly informed upon a wide range of subjects. They were faith- 538 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY fill and zealous members of the Evangelical Association, endeavoring to live up to the highest moral and spiritual standard. John E. Spreng pursued his early studies in the school of his birthplace subsequently completing a course in the West Salem high school, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1879. He also attended the Maimi Business College, at Dayton. Ohio, after which he located in Akron, where for nine years he was a clerk in a mercantile establishment. Resigning his position in 1889 he immediately came to Ashland, where he entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother in a clerical capacity, performing his duties efficiently for two years, at the expiration of which period he was placed in charge of the billing department of the concern, the duties of which office he has since been performing. On February 2, 1888, Mr. Spreng was united in marriage to Miss Savilla E. Myers, daughter of George Myers, of this city, and this union has been blessed with five children, namely : Julia Marie, member of the Ashland Musical Club, is organist of the Christian church and resides with her parents. Warren Myers, a pupil at the high school, will later be matriculated as a students in northwestern College at Naperville, Illinois. The others are, Esther Pauline deceased, Catherine Ellizabeth and Virginia Rosalie. Mr. Spreng, belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. and is also a member of the Colonial Club, of this city. He is a man whose genial disposition has surrounded him with a host of friends and whose business abHity has enabled him to place himself in comfortable circumstances. He justly merits the reputation of being among the foremost commercial leaders of the city. JUSTUS FOX Justus Fox, a prosperous and enterprising, to one and stock raisers of Montgomery township, was born in Hayesville. Ashland county, Ohio. on the 3d of November, 1854, a son of Frederick Fox. He acquired his education in the district schools and in 1880 started out in business life by working farms on shares. In 1888 he purchased his first farm, comprising a tract of eighty acres, to which he later added twenty acres and two years afterward bought sixty acres more. In 1904 he still further increased his holdings by a purchase of seventy-four acres and is now the owner of two hundred and thirty-four acres of rich, productive and valuable Ohio land. His time and energies are devoted to general farming and the raising of stock, especially horses, and in all of his undertakings he has gained a measure of success which entitles him to recognition among the most substantial, representative and progressive agriculturists of his native county. He belongs to that class of self-made men who are the architects and buHders of their own fortunes, for since starting out in life on his own account he has worked his way steadHy upward, realizing that untiring. labor is the basis of all success. On the 6th of September, 1885, Mr. Fox was united in marriage to Miss Anise B. Stoner, whose birth occurred in 1863. Unto them have been born the HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 539 following children: Effie M., Mary Lorella, Charles J., Blanch Esther, Florence Ellen and Dora L., all of whom were educated in Ashland. Charles J. Fox attended the Columbus Agricultural College for one winter. In his political views Mr. Fox is a stalwart democrat, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the. Brethren church of Ashland. He is a quiet, hone loving man, dividing his time between his family and business and takes great delight in adding to the comfort and welfare of his wife and children. He has been a resident of the county from his birth to the present time and has progressed with its development and growth, while in agricultural circles she now occupies a prominent place. WILLIAM E. DONLEY. William E. Donley, a, representative and prosperous farmer and stock breeder of Orange township, has always resided on the farm in this township which was entered by his grandfather from the government in 1816. He was born on the 24th of February, 1852, a son of John and Sarah Ann (Alberson) Donley. As stated, in 1816 the paternal grandfather, Thomas Donley, made his way from Pennsylvania to Ashland county, Ohio, and entered a tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres, which has continuously remained in possession of the family to the present time. He erected a little cabin home and then returned to the Keystone state for his wife and children, bringing them to this county in the spring of 1817. They reached their destination in March of that year and on the day following their arrival, March 20, the birth of John Donley, the father of William E. Donley, occurred. In early manhood Thomas Donley had wedded Miss Susan Urey and unto them were born the following children: Elizabeth, John, Samuel, Thomas, Susan, Mary Jane, David, and James. All were reared to manhood and womanhood in Ashland county and became active and prominent in the early development and upbuilding of the community. Thomss Donley, the grandfather, was called to his final rest in 1850, having survived his wife for several years. Like his father, John Donley became a helpful and influential factor in the affairs of the county and was highly esteemed and respected by all. His demise occurred on the 26th of June, 1880, while his wife passed away November 21, 1887. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children. namely : Thomas C., Susan. Frances, William E., Mary J., Rachel, Elizabeth and Clara. All are living with the exception of the two last named. William E. Donley was reared to manhood on the home farm and when not busy with his text-books assisted in the labor of the fields, thus early becoming familiar with the duties that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. His preliminary education obtained in the common schools of his native township, was supplemated by a course in Savannah Academy. Subsequent to the death of his father he came into possession of the homestead property and intends that it shall continue to be his place of abode throughout the remainder of his days. He is never left the farm for more than three weeks at a time and his has 540 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY been a useful and busy life, devoted to the pursuits of agriculture and stock-raising. He is a breeder of thoroughbred Jersey cattle and registered Delaine sheep and is a recognized authority on the subject of high grade stock. In all of his undertakings he has gained a gratifying and well merited degree of prosperity and has long been numbered among the energetic, progressive and substantial agriculturists of his native county. On the 5th of October, 1850, Mr. Donley was united in marriage to Miss Ella Ford, a daughter of Laban and. Sarah (Pollock) Ford and a representative of a prominent and well known family of Ruggles township. Mr. Ford, who followed farming as a life work, passed away in July, 1906, while his widow still survives, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Donley. The latter has become the mother of six children, as follows : Bentley F., Mary L., the wife of Dr. Earl Roseberry; Edwin S.; Sarah, a successful school teacher; Clara and Ruth. Politically Mr. Donley is a stanch republican and has served for years as a member of the board of education, the cause of public instruction finding in him a strong champion. He is an advocate of all public improvements tending to promote the material, intellectual and moral advancement of the community and is a most public-spirited and enterprising citizen. He and his family are faithful members of the Presbyterian church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful part. They are widely known and highly esteemed amd their attractive home is a favorite resort with many of their friends. CORNELIUS BRUBAKER Cornelius Brubaker, who is making a success in life as a farmer and stock dealer, to which occupation he has devoted his entire life, was born in Montgomery township, July 13, 1858. Reared under the parental roof, he acquired his education in the district schools and early became familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of the farm lad. As the years passed and his strength increased he assisted more and more largely in the work of the fields, and when he at length laid aside his text-books he devoted himself entirely to this line of activity. He owns a fine farm of fifty acres of rich land two an half miles from the city of Ashland, and here he carries on general agricultural pursuits, while for the past eleven years he has given much of his time to buying, selling and shipping stock in connection with his other interests With the exception of a small start in the beginning of his business career, he has made his own way in life and has met with excellent success that now places him among the prosperous and representative agriculturists of the community. On December 20, 1879, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brubaker and Miss Emma Hoover, a daughter of Phillip and Elizabeth Hoover. They have one son, Leroy Brubaker, who received his education in the district schools being reared to farm life, assisting his father in his agricultural interests. Mr. Brubaker gives his political support to the democratic party, and although he has never sought nor desired office, he uses his influence at the pits in behalf HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 541 of the candidates of his party. He is a public-spirited gentleman, and although his private business interests demand his time and attention, yet he is in herty sympathy with and lends his cooperation to all movements and measures at have for their object the substantial and permanent upbuilding of the community. Personally his industry and perseverance have won him an enviable place among the agriculturists of the community and his business integrity and tine worth of character have gained him many friends who entertain him warm regard. ALLEN THOMAS. Allen Thomas, who exerts a telling influence in the commercial life of Ashland, as a member of the firm of Thomas, livers & Wolf, lumber merchants, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, April 4. 1852, a son of John and Nancy (Piper) Thomas, natives of the Keystone state, who in childhood went with their parents to Wayne county where they were united in marriage, in 1862 removing to Ashland county, one year later permanently settling on a farm in Montgomery township where they spent their remaining days. Mr. Thomas departing this life in 1904. at the age of eighty-three years, while his wife, at the age of seventy-four years. entered into rest in 1899. Mr. Thomas was a republican in politics, loyal to his party throughout his life, and both he and his wife were faithful adherents of the Methodist Episcopal church. Allen Thomas spent his boyhood and youth at home under the attentive supervision of his parents, acquiring his education in the district schools. In the year 1875, leaving the parental roof, he began his business career, establishing himself in the stove and tinware business in partnership with James Pollick under the firm name of Thomas & Pollick, conducting the enterprise in this city. One year after the business had been founded Mr. Pollick disposed of his interest to Mr. Grindle, a new partnership being then formed and the business ran along smoothly for one year when their establishment was destroyed by fire. Mr. Thomas and his partner then engaged in the restaurant business for one year, at the termination of which time Mr. Grindle sold his interest to Mr. Reep, with whom Mr. Thomas conducted the business for six years under the firm name of Thomas & Reep, when again Mr. Thomas met with the misfortune of having his establishment destroyed by fire. Associated with his partner he rebuilt and started a grocery and queensware business, which they conducted successfully for eleven years, selling out in 1894. They next purchased a sanitarium at Magnetic Springs, Ohio, which they operated until 1903, and after they disposed of it Mr. Thomas returned to this city where in March, 1906, in partnership with Jerry Wolf he purchased an interest in the lumber business of J. W. Myers ; Company, at which time the firm was reorganized under the name of Thomas, Myers & Wolf, under which name they have since been doing business. It is one of the most important enterprises in the city, the company owning large lumber yards and planing mills and doing an extensive business throughout this and adjoining states. Among other enterprises with which Mr. Thomas 542 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY is connected are the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company of which he is a stockholder and director, and the Ashland Bank & Savings Company, being a stockholder and director in that institution. He is also one of the three men who own the patents on the block and cement mixing machines manufactured in Ashland. On January 14, 1879, Mr. Thomas wedded Miss Katherine F. Reep, a native of this city and a daughter of Christian Reep, deceased, and to this union were born Grace and an infant, both now deceased. The republican party has always commanded the allegiance of Mr. Thomas, who takes quite an interest in local affairs and who served two terms as treasurer of Montgomery township for three years as a member of the board of education of this city. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F. and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, being on the board of trustees of that organization. His keen business ability is recognized throughout the city, in developing the interests of which he has taken an active part, and he justly merits the reputation he enjoys as one of its leading citizens. ESTEY E. MILLER. Estey E. Miller, conducting an extensive and profitable business as a grain, hay and coal dealer at Nova, is also prominently identified with the financial interests of the town as president of the Nova Banking Company, His birth occurred in Troy township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 11th of September 1873, his parents being Jonas S. and Mary A. (Swartz) Miller. The father who was born in Redhaw, Ashland county, April 15, 1849, was the eldest son of George and Christina Hiller. In early childhood he accompanied his parents on their removal to Nova, this county, and with the exception of three spent in Cleveland, Ohio, there continued to make his home until called to his final rest. On the 6th of March, 1865, when less than sixteen years of age, he enlisted in defense of the Union as a member of Company I, One hundred and Ninety- fifth Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged some months later on account of illness. In later years he maintained pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in C. P. Ogden Post. No. 560, G. A. R. In preparation for a business career, he familiarized himself with the blacksmith's trade at West Salem, Ohio, and in 1871 located at Nova, where he engaged in blacksmithing and carriage building until 1885, when he became a member of the Ohio Steel Thill. Company. In 1896 he became the senior member of the firm of E. E. Miller & Company, dealers in grain and hay, and was a. prominent factor in its successful control until the time of his death on the 4th of March, 1907. He was well known and highly esteemed throughout the northern portion of Ashland county and his efforts proved an effective element in the upbuilding and development of the town of Nova. He superintended the erection of the grain elevator at that place and for twenty years was a member of the Nova. Cornet Band. In September, 1872. Jonas S. Miller was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary A. Swartz, of Redhaw, this county, and by this HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 545 union there was born two sons: Estey E., of this review; and Charley F., who passed away when in his seventh year. After obtaining a good practical education in the public schools of Nova, Estey E. Miller took up the study of telegraphy and subsequently secured a position with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad at Conneaut, Ohio, where he remained for nine months. he then worked for the same railroad at Mentor. Ohio, for a period of eighteen months but at the end of that time resigned his position and in 1892 became identified with the mercantHe interests of Nova as a dealer in grain, hay and coal. As the years have gone by he has buHt up a large and profitable trade in these commodities and is widely recognized as a most substantial, enterprising and representative business man of the community. Public-spirited and progressive in a marked degree, he soon realized that a bank was necessary to care for the business of the town and undertook the organization of such an institution. In the summer of 1907, as the result of his efforts, the Nova Banking Company was organized under the banking laws of the State of Ohio with it capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, its doors being opened for business on December 4th, of the same year. The home of the bank is a substantial and attractive brick building, equipped with every modern convenience, time locks, safety vaults, etc. The fact that the institution supplies a long felt wand and is fully appreciated by the business men and farmers of the community, is attested by its ever increasing patronage. At the time of its organization Mr Miller was elected president and has since continued as the chief executive officer of the hank. his keen discrimination sound judgment and excellent management agreement proving an important factor in its successful conduct. He was also active in founding the Nova Telephone Company, which was organized under the state law's in 1907 and has long distance connection with the Star and Bell companies. Mr. Miller capably served the company in the position of treasurer for some time. On the 17th of October, 1895, Mr. Miller wedded Miss Ota M. Kosht, a daughter of Josiah and Adeline (Swartz) Kosht, of Troy township. By this union are three children: Charles F., Beryl M., and Juanita E., aged twelve, ten and eight years respectively. In his political views Mr. Miller is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to positions of public trust. He has been treasurer of Troy township for two terms and a. member of the Nova school board for a number of years, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. At a party convention held at Ashland in 1906 he was nominated for the office of county auditor without his knowledge or consent, not being present at the convention. Notwithstanding the fact that this county has a strong democratic majority and that he made no personal effort to secure votes, he made an excellent showing at the polls, running far ahead of the ticket. Fraternally he is identified with Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I. O. O. F. He is a great lover of music and is a valued member of the Nova Cornet Band, which is a splendid organization of its kind. His gun and fishing rod also afford him much pleasure and recreation and he is an advocate of all manly outdoor sports. His pleasure and character have won hind the warrn regard and friendship 546 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY of many with whom he has come in contact and he is widely recognized as a citizen whose efforts have contributed in large measure to the upbuilding and developmerit of his native county along various lines. EDMOND HELBERT In the seventy-six years of a well spent life Edmond Helbert has so directed his efforts that he is now living retired in Jeromeville with a competence sufficient to supply him with all of the comforts of life. From his early childhood he has resided in Ashland county, arriving in Mohican township in 1835. He was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania., on the 23d of September, 1833, so was only in his second year when his parents. Jacob and Elizabeth (Mock) Helbert, removed to this state. Their family numbered thirteen children, of whom he was the twelfth in order of birth. The parents were born and reared about thirty miles west of Philadelphia and after their marriage they removed to Bedford county, that state, where all of their children were born with the exception of their youngest, John Helbert, whose birth occurred in Ashland. Thinking to find better business oportunities in a less thickly settled dostrict, the father removed with his family to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1835, and purchased a tract of land north of Mohicanville, where with characteristic energy he began the development and improvement of the farm. He built the first bank barn in Mohican township and his neighbors predicted that he would never raise enough crops to fill it, but his harvests the first year were more than sufficient to utHize the capacity thus afforded. With resolute purpose he undertook the task of cutting away the forest trees, picking out the stumps, burning the brush, turning the furrows and cultivating the land until the dense forest growth was replaced by fields of waving grain. His labors were continued without interruption until he had placed one hundred and sixty acres under a fine state of cultivation. He also bought one hundred and ten acres additional which he afterward gave to one of his sons. Both he and his wife reached advanced age, Jacob Helbert being ninety-one years of age at the time of his demise while his wife died when eighty years of age. Their children were as follows: Marie, the deceased wife of John Newman ; William, who was a twin brother of Marie and went to California in the spring of 1849, his death there occurring two years later; Jacob, deceased; Michael, living in Vermillion township; Rebecca, who became the wife of John Oarst and died in 1862; Peter, who died in June, 1908, at the age of eighty-four years in Jeromeville, where he was living retired ; Hettie, who married Jacob Wachtel and after his death became the wife of Charles Cosner; Henry, a, resident of Ashland county: Sarah who is the widow of Henry Wachtel and lives on the old home place; Levi, deceased; Edmond. of this review; and John, living in Hayesville. Arriving in Ashland county while yet an infant. Edmond Helbert who known no other home. His memory goes back to the time when there were many evidences of pioneer life here and his recollection covers the period when many homes were log cabins, when cooking was done over the fireplace and even HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 547 to the time when kerosene lamps had not in very large measure supplanted tallow candles. He worked in the fields with his father through the period of his boyhood and youth and continued upon the home farm until eleven years after his marriage, cultivating the farm on shares. He then purchased a farm of eighty acres and now has one hundred and thirty-four acres about two miles north of Mohicanville on section 30, Mohican township. There he continuously engaged in general agricultural pursuits until 1901. when he removed to Jeromeville. The farm still pays to him a good tribute and in addition he owns five acres in the village upon which he has erected an attractive dwelling, being now most comfortably situated in life. In March, 1865, Mr. Delbert was united in marriage to Miss Katharine Sumner, who was born in Lake township, Ashland county, July 23, 1843, and is a daughter of Clement and Elizabeth (Underwood) Sumner, natives of Vermont and Pennsylvania, respectively. With their parents they came to Ohio in their childhood days and were married in Lake township. There the death of Mrs. Sumner occurred and later Mr. Sumner removed to Liverpool, Medina county, Ohio, where he died. They were the parents of five children : Mrs. Helbert; Phoebe, who is the widow of Samuel Millen, a resident of Kansas; Seneca, who died in Kansas; Rebecca, who died in Lake township at the age of fourteen years; and Solon residing in the state of New York. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Helbert have been born four children, but the first two, Mary Elizabeth and Laura Etta, died of scarlet fever about the same time, the former at the age of seven and the latter when five years old. Clement W. died at the age of one year. Adam Augustus, the only surviving child, is now a representative farmer of this county. He married Dema Seigler, who died leaving one son, Guy Eugene, and after her death Adam Augustus Holbert wedded Lilly Hossinger, by whom he has two children, Ruth Pauline and Mildred Irene. Mr. and Mrs. Edmond Helbert are members of the Reformed church of Mohicanville and his political support is given to the democracy. His life has been well spent and has been crowned with a substantial measure of success. This is in the fact that he is now the owner of a valuable farm property on which are large, fine buildings, while everything about the place is indicative of the thrift of the owner. CHARLES M. AND EDGAR J. ROHN. Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn, who are successfully engaged in farming, stock raising and dairying in Orange township, are worthy representatives of a prominent and well known pioneer family of this county. The birth of Charles M. Rolm occurred February 21, 1876, and his brother, Edgar J., first opened his eyes to the light of day on the 29th of November, 1877. The paternal grandfather, Charles Rohn, was born in 1802 and in 1839 made his way from Pennsylvania to Ashland county, Ohio, settling on the farm which is now the home of his grandsons. Throughout his active business career he followed farming and stock raising and his demise occurred in September, 1888. His 548 - HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY son, William A. Rohn, who was born August 22, 1841, wedded Miss Ophelia C. Miller and was called to his final rest on the 18th of September, 1906. Like his father he was prominently and successfully identified with the pursuits of farming and stock-raising, being numbered among the substantial and progressive citizens of the community. He is still survived by his widow, two sons two daughters, the latter being Mary E. and Ina M., the wife of John Alsdorf. Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn were educated in the district schools and have always resided on and cultivated the old homestead farm. It comprises one hundred and eighty-seven and a half acres of rich and productive land, splendidly improved and equipped with all modern conveniences to facilitate the work of the fields. Here the brothers are carrying on farming, stock-raising and dairying and in all of these undertakings are meeting with success to their keen business discernment, untiring energy and capable management. On the 17th of August, 1907, Charles M. and Rohn was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Melching, a daughter of August and Anna M. (Satler) Melching, of Milton township. Both Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn give their political allegiance to the democracy and take an active and helpful interest in the local work of the party favoring all movements and measures instituted to promote the general welfare. Fraternally they are connected with Mohican Lodge No. 85, I. O. O. F., while their religious faith is indicated by their membership in the Trinity Lutheran church. Their lives have been characterized by industry honesty and integrity in all relations and they have fully sustained the honorable record made by their grandfather and father. They are moreover young men of genial, cordial disposition and are prominent in social circles of the community, the circle of their friends being almost coextensive with the circle their acquaintances. GEORGE W. GARST. George W. Garst carries on general farming pm section 21. Mohican township, having there three hundred and nineteen acres of land in one tract. His place is three miles southeast of Jeromeville and in its further development and improvement his time is fully occupied, with the result that the property constitutes a valuable investment, returning to him a gratifing annual income. Mr. Garst was born in Mohicanville on the 13th of May, 1850, and was only a year old when his father removed to a small farm a half mile west of the village His parents were John and Rebecca. (Helbert) Garst, The former was born in Alsace, France, in 1820, and when eleven years of age sailed to New York with his parents. The family first settled in Pennsylvania, but the parents both died in the metropolis of cholera a few days after their arrival in the new world. The five children then continued the journey to the Keystone state, making their way to the home of friends who had previously resided in the same locality with them in the fatherland. John Garst arrived in Jeromeville, Ohio, when about fifteen years of age and there learned the trade of blarksmithing, after which he removed to Mohicanville, where be was employed by others until HISTORY OF ASHLAND COUNTY - 549 he was able to buy a shop and begin business for himself. He conducted his smithy in Mohicanville for a time and also on his farm just west of the town where he remained most of his active life. He was one of the first men to be drafted for service in the civil war, but feeling that he could not leave his family and business he sent a substitute. As the years passed he prospered in his undertaking and became a money lender, handling large amounts for others. In fact he did a regular private banking business and for a considerable period invested extensively in land, buying and selling. At one time he had over six hundred acres but gave to his children, for whom he made generous provision. When he arrived in this county his clothing was of a very cheap quality and his actual capital consisted of only three or four dollars. His success proves conclusively what may be accomplished by earnest, indefatigable labor and judicial investment. In business matters his judgment was seldom, if ever, at fault and his success followed as a logical sequence to his persistent effort. He died near Mohicanville in 1904 at the age of eighty-four years. He was not a member of a church but regularly attended the services of the Methodist Episcopal and the Reformed churches at Mohicanville and contributed generously to thier support. In politics he was a democrat and held various township offices, yet frequently refused to serve as he cared more to devote his attention to business affairs than to receive the honors of office. His first wife was a native of Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and came to Ashland county in her childhood with her parents. Jacob and Elizabeth Helbert. The Helberts were a prominent pioneer family of this county, of whom extended mention is made in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert on another page of this work. The death of Mrs. Garst occurred in 1862, when she was forty-two years of age. The children of that marriage were: William, living in Fulton county, Ohio; George W., of this review; Phoebe, now deceased, who was the wife of George Obrecht and after his death married Charles McLaughlin ; Elizabeth, the wife of W. E. Paullin; Rebecca, the wife of George Glasener of Vermillion township; and Mary, who died at the age of sixteen years. Having lost his first wife the father married Margaret Wallace and they have three children: Belle, the wife of George Maurer of Texas; Dora the wife of Peter Helbert, who is living on the old homestead of his father-in-law in Mohican township; and Della, the wife of James J. Welch, of Loudonville. Upon his father's farm about a half mile west of Mohicanville, George W. Garst spent his youthful days, indulging in the sports common to the lads of the interior and also dividing his time between the work of the schoolroom and of the fields. He remained upon the old home farm until thirty years of age. After putting aside his text-books he gave his attention to the task of plowinng, planting and harvesting and also assisted his father in the blacksmith shop. Following his marriage he lived for two years on an adjoining farm at the edge of Mohicanville and in 1882 came to his present place, which he had purchased the previous year. Here he has since resided and the evidence of his active life is seen in his well developed farm. He at first purchased two hundred and twenty-eight acres but has since extended the boundaries of his place until it now comprises three hundred and nineteen acres all in one body. It is situated on section 16 and 21, Mohican township. He has a splendid set of