HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 525 Elizabeth Sheil, both deceased. Mrs. Monaghan's sister, Ellen M. Sheil, has made her home with the Monaghan family for the past 40 years. Her brothers, John, Richard, Nicholas, and William, are all deceased. To Patrick and Margaret Theresa (Sheil) Monaghan the following children have been born : John, born Dec. 4, 1874, an architect ; James Richard, died in infancy ; Edward Patrick, born July 28, 1880, a physician and surgeon, married Miss Isabel Saunders, and they live in Cleveland ; Rev. Nicholas, born Sept. 22, 1882, pastor of St. Charles Church in Cleveland, having been ordained to the priesthood on Dec. 21, 1907 ; Charles, born Dec. 9, 1886, married Mary Lynch, and they live in Ashtabula ; William A., born June 10, 1889, died in infancy ; Frederick Andrew, born May 3, 1891, married Mary Wilkinson, and they live in Cleveland ; Elizabeth Rose, born Jan. 28, 1878, married Edward Malony, lives in Detroit, Mich. ; and Theresa Mary, born Dec. 3, 1884, married J. P. Mahoney, lives at 20 Hubbard Street, Ashtabula. Mr. Monaghan is a Democrat and he and his family are members of Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church at the harbor. He has always been an energetic man who stands well in the esteem of his many friends and acquaintances. Benedetto Castiglia, an enterprising and progressive merchant of Columbus Street, Ashtabula, was born in Italy, Jan. 1, 1874, and is the son of Joseph and May Castiglia. Joseph Castiglia was a farmer and spent his entire life in Italy. He died March 23, 1922, and his wife is 82 years of age and lives in Italy. They had five children, as follows : Stephen, Joseph, Benedetto, the subject of this sketch ; John, and Charles. Benedetto Castiglia spent his boyhood in Italy and attended the schools there. He came to this country in 1898 and located at Ashtabula Harbor, where he engaged in the saloon business. Since 1922 Mr. Castiglia has owned and operated a feed store at 425 Columbus Street. He handles all kinds of grain, hay, flour, etc., and has an extensive trade. Mr. Castiglia was married on Jan. 29, 1901, to Miss Benditta Cado. They have no children. In politics, Mr. Castiglia is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Catholic Church and a substantial citizen of his community. 526 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY Harry A. and William H. Anderson, grocers, are progressive business men of Ashtabula. They were born here and are the sons of Edward and Seiverina (Benson) Anderson. Edward Anderson is a native of Sweden, born Oct. 12, 1851. At the age of 18 years he came to the United. States and located in Ashtabula, where he was employed on the 'docks for a number of years. Later, he engaged in the coal business. He is now retired. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have six sons, all of whom live in Ashtabula. They are: J. A., a conductor, employed by the New York Central Railroad; Harry Andrew, was born April 20, 1891; William H., born Jan. 11, 1896, and George, employed in the grocery store of his brothers ; Arthur, a twin brother of George, employed by the New York Central Railroad; and Verne, employed by the Van Sweringen Company of Cleveland. The Anderson Brothers have always lived in Ashtabula. They were educated in the public schools and in 1916 Harry A. and William H. engaged in the grocery and meat business at 430 Columbus Street, where they are now located. They have a fine store and are dealers in high grade meats, groceries, cigars and candies. The Andersons are ambitious men, whose success in life is practically assured. They attribute their success to early business training, which was received in the offices of the Ashtabula Star-Beacon. They and their brothers began as carriers for this paper and had large routes, which gave them business experience of great value. Harry A. Anderson was united in marriage with Miss Ida Carlson, a native of Ashtabula, and to this union one daughter has been born, Virginia. William H. is unmarried. In politics the Andersons are identified with the Republican party. They are members of the Swedish Lutheran Church of Ashtabula Harbor and rank among the excellent business men of the community. Dr. J. B. Sharkey, a leading optician of Ashtabula, with offices at 69 Lake Street, is a native of Scotland. He was born Feb. 24, 1870, and is the son of William and Mary Sharkey. William Sharkey was a native of Scotland, as was also his wife. He died in 1904 and she died in 1918. They were the parents of the following children: John, lives in Scotland; Jane Patterson, lives in Pennsylvania; Margaret Raymer, lives in Letsdale, Pa.; Mary Thompson, lives HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 527 in Pennsylvania ; Martha, deceased, was the wife of Ernest Whitcombe ; Mrs. Frank George, lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. ; and J. B., the subject of this sketch. Doctor Sharkey received his early education in the schools of his native land and in 1885 came to Ontario, Canada, where he remained several years. He was graduated from the Northern Illinois College of Optometry on April 21, 1894, and from Needles Institute of Kansas City in 1920. Before attending the latter institution, Dr. Sharkey spent 16 years practicing his profession in Chicago and four years in California. He has been located in Ashtabula since Oct. 1, 1921, and is recognized as a capable and progressive man in his profession. On Sept. 23, 1915, Dr. Sharkey was united in marriage with Miss Mary Farrell, a native of Mississippi. She is the sister of George Farrell, editor and owner of the Coast Beacon, widely known newspaper of Pass Christian, Miss. Another brother, Fred Farrell, also lives in Mississippi. Doctor and Mrs. Sharkey have a son, J. B. Sharkey, Jr., born June 4, 1917. Doctor Sharkey is a Republican, a member of the Congregational Church, 32nd degree Mason, and also belongs to the Knights of Pythias. Charles C. Strausser, a successful and well known merchant of Ashtabula, is a native of Pennsylvania. He was born at Stonebury, in 1890, and is the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Strausser. Joseph Strausser was a prosperous farmer of Pennsylvania. He died in 1912, and his wife now lives at Stonebury, Pa. Charles C. Strausser grew up on his father's farm and attended the public schools. He has been in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad for 14 years and at present is conductor in the passenger service. Mr. Strausser's grocery business, which is located at 507 Lake Street, is conducted by his wife. On Dec. 7, 1913, Mr. Strausser was married to Miss Isabel Reed, a native of Beaver, Pa., and a daughter of Elmer and Mary (Boyer) Reed, residents of West Bridgewater, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Strausser have a son, Charles, born Dec. 23, 1914. By a former marriage Mrs. Strausser has two sons : Wilber, born Sept. 14, 1908 ; and Fred, born April 25, 1910. Mr. and Mrs. Strausser are Democrats and are members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church. 528 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY Ernest S. Johnson is a successful and well known merchant of Ashtabula. He owns and operates the Johnson Meat Market at 68 Station Street. Mr. Johnson is a native of Sweden, born May 2, 1873, and the son of Alfred and Johanna (Hanson) Johnson. Alfred Johnson was a native of Sweden, as was also his wife. In 1881 they came to this country and settled at Ashtabula, where Mr. Johnson was employed on the docks. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson both died in 1921. They were the parents of the following children: Charles, died in 1914 ; John ; Margaret, married Carl Bergman, deceased ; Augusta, deceased, was the wife of Ernest Olson ; Ernest S., the subject of this sketch ; and two children died in infancy. Ernest S. Johnson was reared and educated in Sweden and in 1893 came to the United States. After farming a short time, he engaged in the meat business at Ashtabula Harbor, where he was located for 19 1/2 years. In 1920 Mr. Johnson removed to his present location, where he carries on a large volume of business. He deals in high grade products exclusively. In 1902 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage with Miss Selma Swanson, a native of Ashtabula and the daughter of Swan Nelson and Anna (Nelson) Nelson, natives of Sweden, who settled in Ashtabula in 1880. Mr. Nelson lives at Ashtabula. His wife died in 1923. A son, Nelson Swanson, lives at Ashtabula Harbor. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have six children : Edith, Irene, Ruth, Dorothy, Hazel and Naudean. Mr. Johnson is a Republican, a member of the Lutheran church, B. P. 0. E. Lodge and a highly esteemed citizen of Ashtabula. His residence is located 44 Todd Avenue and is one of the attractive homes of Ashtabula. William M. Allyn is a prosperous groceryman of Ashtabula. He was born in Hartsgrove, Ashtabula County, March 12, 1902, and is a son of Frank and Alma (Rice) Allyn. Frank Allyn was born at Rome, Ohio, in 1876, and his wife is a native of Des Moines, Iowa. They live in Ashtabula, and are the parents of three children, as follows : William M., the subject of this sketch ; and Mabel and Irene, both students. William M. Allyn has always lived in Ashtabula. After attending the public schools he entered the employ of A. F. Day, where he remained one year. He then was associated with C. N. Newlon for two years, after which he was employed in the Bunker Hill grocery for two years. In HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 529 June, 1923, Mr. Allyn engaged in business for himself at 325 Main Street, where he established an excellent trade. The 22nd of September, 1924, Mr. Allyn sold his grocery store. He has become manager of the store for W. D. Ludwig. On April 2, 1924, Mr. Allyn was married to Miss Dorothy Gochneaur, born April 30, 1905, Denmark Township, daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Brockett) Gochneaur, natives of Jefferson, Ohio, and Denmark Township. They now reside on a farm in Denmark township. Mr. Allyn is a Republican and a member of the Harris Memorial Presbyterian Church. Joseph R. Cook, a veteran of the World War, is among Ashtabula's prominent young attorneys, and a member of one of the county's honored pioneer families. He was born in Ashtabula, July 29, 1891, and is a son of Mack R. and Nettie A. (Davis) Cook. Mack R. Cook was a native of Ashtabula, born April 1, 1864, and the son of Joseph R. Cook, deceased, who was born in Ashtabula County in 1819. Joseph R. Cook was a widely known attorney, being admitted to the bar in 1843. He was the son of Rev. Erastus Cook, a native of New York, who was a son of Philip Cook, a well known textile manufacturer of Troy, N. Y. Mack R. Cook, father of the subject of this sketch, was a farmer in early life and later engaged in the grocery business at Ashtabula Harbor until 1924 when he became engaged as a fruit grower. His wife was born at Rome, Ashtabula County, July 21, 1868. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are the parents of four children: Joseph R., the subject of this sketch ; Perry D., born April 21, 1894, lives at Meadville, Pa., married Ruby Flower, and they have one son, Perry, Jr.; Mack D., born March 29, 1897, lives in Ashtabula ; and Harry C., born Dec. 15, 1899, a student at Western Reserve University, Cleveland. Joseph R. Cook received his education in the public and high schools of Ashtabula and was graduated from the Law School of Western Reserve University in 1917. After practicing his profession in Ashtabula a short time, Mr. Cook enlisted for service during the World War with the army transport service, having sailed overseas in August, 1918 and returned Oct. 14, 1918. He again crossed Nov. 3, 1918, returning to the United States March, 1919. He returned from service in March, 1919, and resumed his practice in Ashtabula. Mr. Cook's office is located at 160- Main Street. (32) 530 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY Joseph R. Cook was nominated at the August, 1924, primaries for prosecuting attorney on the Democratic ticket. He has been a notary public since 1917, and served as Justice of the Peace four years and is now serving his second term. He also served two years as deputy clerk to the Board of Elections. On June 20, 1917, Mr. Cook was united in marriage with Miss Clara M. Salchli, a daughter of Frederick and Rose Salchli, natives of Berne, Switzerland, and residents of Erie, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Salchli have eight children as follows: Frederick Jr., Cambridge Pa. ; John, a veteran of the Spanish-American War, Erie, Pa. ; Henry, Erie, Pa. ; Rosalia, a teacher in the public schools of Erie, Pa. ; Charles, Erie, Pa. ; Mrs. Cook ; William, at home ; and Bertha M., a high school teacher in Erie, Pa. To Mr. and Mrs. Cook have been born two children : Ruth Clara, born Feb. 15, 1920 ; and Marjorie Marie, born Oct. 27, 1922. Mr. Cook is a member of the Congregational Church and belongs to the Masonic lodge. He is a capable lawyer and has a wide acquaintance in Ashtabula. M. B. King, a well known coal dealer of Ashtabula, who has been successfully engaged in business for 33 years, is a native of Ohio. He was born at Cleveland, Nov. 25, 1858, and is the son of Benjamin and Mary (Holmes) King. Benjamin King was a leading farmer of Ashtabula County for many years, having settled there in 1865. He died in 1884 and his wife died in 1907. Mr. and Mrs. King were the parents of the following children : M. B., the subject of this sketch ; Emma, lives in Ashtabula ; Joe McCune, lives in New Jersey; Mrs. Fannie Ackley, lives in Ashtabula ; and several others who are now deceased. M. B. King came to Ashtabula with his parents at the age of seven years. He was educated in the schools there and at Saybrook, Ohio. Mr. King has lived in Ashtabula for 42 years and has been interested in the coal business for 34 years. Previous to this he was employed by the Ashtabula Docks for nine years as an engineer. Mr. King has established an excellent trade in Ashtabula and ranks among the reliable coal dealers of the county. Mr. King was married to Miss Eva R. Welch of Cleveland, and the daughter of William Welch. They have no children. HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 531 Mr. King is a Republican and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and his wife are widely and favorably known in Ashtabula County. Roy J. Sweet, deceased, was a successful business man of Ashtabula and a member of one of the county's prominent pioneer families. He was born in Ashtabula, Sept. 13, 1871, and was the son of Adelbert Sweet. Adelbert Sweet, also of Ashtabula, was born May 12, 1840, and died in 1915. He was the son of Myles Sweet, who was born in Massachusetts and the son of Peleg Sweet. Peleg Sweet settled in Ashtabula County in 1812, after having traded his land holdings in Massachusetts for a tract of 600 acres in Ashtabula County. This trade was made without Mr. Sweet having seen the land, yet it proved satisfactory. When he settled here Indians were still roaming the banks of the river, which was known as the "Hash-tah-bush-lah", or the River of many fish. Peleg Sweet owned and operated one of the first taverns in the county and his quaint personality made him one long to be remembered by the weary traveler. Ox teams and lumbering wagons were the chief conveyance those days, later followed by the stage coach, and Mr. Sweet's tavern was a regular post house. Edgewood cemetery, one of Ohio's largest and most beautiful cemeteries, stands as a monument to Peleg Sweet, who donated the land to the township for that purpose, and the township has faithfully preserved it. His daughter, Mrs. Sheppard, was the first white child born on the east side of Ashtabula. Roy J. Sweet spent his entire life in Ohio. After attending the schools of Ashtabula, he took a business course at New Lyme, Ohio, and was associated in business with his father until 1900. He then engaged in the moving and transfer business which he operated until the time of his death, Jan. 11, 1922. The business, which is now conducted by his wife and son, is located at 1251 Main Street, and is known as the R. J. Sweet Moving & Storage Company. A specialty is made of razing smokestacks, moving boilers, etc., and there is a large fireproof warehouse in connection with the business. On Dec. 4, 1892, Mr. Sweet was united in marriage with Miss Jennie Lovejoy at Ashtabula. She is a native of Ashtabula and a daughter of Franklin and Frances (Fox) Lovejoy. Mr. Lovejoy died when Mrs. Sweet was but 12 days old. Her mother is now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Lovejoy had three children : Mrs. Edith Lockwood, lives in Ashtabula; Mrs. Car- 532 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY rie Munsell, lives in Ashtabula ; and Mrs. Sweet. To Mr. and Mrs. Sweet three children were born, as follows : Franklin, died at the age of seven years ; Charles, died in infancy ; and F. A., who lives in Ashtabula. He was educated in the public and high schools of Ashtabula and attended Washington & Jefferson College. Before completing his college course he enlisted in the Marines during the World War and was later transferred to the Navy, and was in service for more than three years. Mr. Sweet is well known as an athlete and during his college career was a member of the basketball team, and took part in other activities. He was injured while playing basketball and was obliged to use crutches for almost a year. He was married to Miss Helen King, of Ashtabula, and they have a son, Buddy, born in 1920. Mr. Roy J. Sweet was a Republican and the Sweet' family are members of the Episcopal Church. He was affiliated with the Knights of Pythias and the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sweet was esteemed throughout the community as a reliable business man and an excellent citizen. Fred G. Kerger, who is successfully engaged in the grocery business at 15 Center Street, is among Ashtabula's substantial citizens. He was born in Cleveland and is the son of Martin S. and Althea (Kennedy) Kerger. Martin S. Kerger, a native of Germany, came to this country when a young man and settled on a farm near Cleveland. He is now living retired in Jefferson, Ohio. He came to Ashtabula County in 1887, and engaged in farming in Jefferson Township until 1920. His wife was born at Georgetown, Canada. To Mr. and Mrs. Kerger the following children were born: Martin A., lives at Warren, Ohio ; Allie Olson, lives at Flint, Mich. ; Angeline Jones, lives at Jefferson ; and Fred G., the subject of this sketch. Fred G. Kerger spent his boyhood on his father's farm and attended the Jefferson schools, and was graduated from high school in 1901. He farmed for several years and was a teacher for two years. He then engaged in the mercantile business at Jefferson from 1902 until 1905, after which he clerked in an Ashtabula grocery store for three years. Mr. Kerger then traveled for a wholesale grocery firm for two years and in 1910 engaged in business for himself. He has one of the finest grocery stores in the city and does a large volume of business. On Jan. 1, 1908, Mr. Kerger was united in marriage at Cleveland with Miss Minnie B. Marvin, a native of Andover, Ohio, and the daughter of HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 533 Chauncey and Mary L. (Lawyger) Marvin, natives of Andover. Mr. Marvin died July 7, 1897, and his wife lives at Jefferson. To Mr. and Mrs. Kerger two children have been born: Raymond Franklin, born Oct. 8, 1908 ; and John M., born Oct. 26, 1914. They are both students. In politics Mr. Kerger is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Gilmore Methodist Episcopal Church of Ashtabula, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Elks, Rotary Club, and the U. C. T. Mr. Kerger is a citizen who holds the high regard of the entire community. Daniel E. Tracy, now living retired, is a substantial citizen of Ashtabula, and a member of a well known pioneer family. He was born in Addison County, Vt., April 24, 1861, and is a son of Eber B. and Sarah R. (Herrick) Tracy. Eber B. Tracy was a native of Bristol, Vt., born Nov. 29, 1834, and his wife was born at Danby, Vt., in 1835. In 1865 Mr. Tracy brought his family to Ashtabula County and settled at Plymouth, where he engaged in the contracting business. He later engaged in general farming and owned 226 acres of land. Mr. Tracy died in 1918, and is buried in Plymouth Township, Ashtabula County. To Eber and Sarah R. (Herrick) Tracy one son was born, Daniel E., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Tracy was later married to Miss Alpha Cassidy, of Sheffield, Ohio, and to this union three children were born, as follows : Alice, wife of Fred Seymour, lives in Ashtabula ; Raymond C. ; and Clyde, deceased. Daniel E. Tracy received his education in the schools of Plymouth Township and Ashtabula. When a young man he learned the barber trade and was the owner of several barber shops. In 1915 Mr. Tracy engaged in the furniture business in Ashtabula, in which he continued for five years. The business was known as the Tracy & Rennick Furniture Company and was located at 12-14 Center Street. During its existence it was one of the leading enterprises of Ashtabula. .Since 1920 Mr. Tracy has lived retired at 386 Prospect Street. This was formerly the Granger homestead and is among the attractive residences of the city. On Feb. 10, 1885, Mr. Tracy was united in marriage with Miss Edith Runkle, a native of Ashtabula, and a daughter of Isaac L. and Fidelia F. (Hendrick) Runkle, the former a native of New York and the latter of Ohio. Mr. Runkle was born Nov. 27, 1824, and died Dec. 14, 1908. His wife was born Aug. 13, 1843, and lives at 11 McKinley Street, Ashtabula. 534 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY Mr. and Mrs. Runkle had three daughters ; Mrs. Tracy ; Carrie G. Prentice, died Feb. 9, 1907 ; and Alice Louth, who lives with her mother. To Mr. and Mrs. Tracy a son was born, Kenneth William, born Sept. 15, 1887. He attended the public schools of Ashtabula and was graduated from the University of Michigan in 1912. He lives at Jamaica, N. Y., where he represents the William R. Warner Company of New York city, manufacturing chemists. Kenneth William Tracy was married on July 20, 1912, to Miss Ethel Tibbetts, of Boston, Mass., and they have two children : Marion, born Aug. 29, 1917 ; and William, born Sept. 27, 1920. In politics Mr. Tracy is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Methodist Church and belongs to the Elks lodge. Mr. Tracy is esteemed throughout his community as a man of integrity and uprightness of character. J. G. Salisbury, retired, is a veteran of the Civil War and an interesting pioneer of Ashtabula County. He was born at Erie, Pa., Feb. 16, 1840, and is a son of Schuyler and Maranda (Force) Salisbury. Schuyler Salisbury was a native of Pennsylvania and a butcher of Erie for 38 years. He died in 1893 at the age of 77 years and his wife died in 1901, at the age of 81 years. J. G., the subject of this sketch, was one of a family of ten children. He and a sister, Ida, are the only survivors. J. G. Salisbury was reared and educated at Erie, Pa., and 1861 became a brakeman on the Lake Shore Railroad now known as the New York Central. In 1862 he enlisted in the Civil War, from Erie, Pa., in the 145th Infantry, Pennsylvania Regiment, and served three years. In 1866 he returned to railroading on Lake Shore Railroad as a brakeman. In 1867 he was promoted to conductor and was freight conductor until he was injured about 1902, when he resigned. Mr. Salisbury was at Collinwood, Ohio, on the night of the Ashtabula bridge disaster, Dec. 29, 1876, and he was sent to the scene of the disaster on the first relief train as conductor of that train, the engineers being Jeff Newell and Frank Pease, both now deceased. I. C. Reeds was the man in charge of the wrecking crew and the brakemen were John Garner, Charles Burrell and Zack Salisbury. J. G. Salisbury was personally acquainted with both engineers of the wrecked train, Daniel McGuire and Mr. Follson ; the former, was badly injured and Mr. Follson died about a year after the wreck. Mr. Salisbury worked con- HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 535 tinuously all that night and the following day and extricated 12 people from the wreckage. In 1899 he moved to Kingsville where he now lives, retired. In 1888 Mr. Salisbury was married to Miss Lina Marsh of Conneaut, and to this union four children were born as follows : Schuyler Marsh, a professor at Ohio State University ; Joseph Gardner, engaged in the insurance business at Ashtabula ; Laura A., a teacher ; and Helen, the wife of J. J. Snyder, lives at Conneaut. By a former marriage Feb. 19, 1866, to Laura Fuller, of Buffalo, N. Y., born 1843 and died April, 1885, three sons were born : William, C. Jay, and Bert, all living in Cleveland. Mr. Salisbury is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church and belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic. He is widely known and is one of the leading citizens of Ashtabula County. F. J. Nearpass, who is successfully engaged in business at North Kingsville, where he owns a garage and lunch room, is a native of Ashtabula County. He was born at South Kingsville, April 1, 1888, and is the son of I. V. and Winona (Morris) Nearpass. I. V. Nearpass was a veteran of the Civil and Black Hawk wars. He was a native of Michigan and an early settler of Ashtabula County. For many years he owned and was editor of the Kingsville Tribune. Mr. Nearpass made four trips west after the Civil War and his companion, Frank Kirkwood, was killed by the Indians while enroute to California. Mr. Nearpass died in 1904. His wife, who died in 1923, was the daughter of Dr. J. L. Morris, Kingsville's pioneer physician and surgeon. To Mr. and Mrs. Nearpass one son was born, F. J., the subject of this sketch. F. J. Nearpass received his education in the schools of Kingsville and began his career as a mechanic in Ashtabula, which trade he followed for seven years. He was employed by the Ashtabula Fork & Hoe Company and the Phoenix Iron Company. In 1921 Mr. Nearpass engaged in his present business on North Ridge Road, which he and his wife purchased from Mrs. Celia Morse. He has an uptodate garage and does general repair work. There is also a filling station in connection with the garage. Mrs. Nearpass conducts the restaurant, which is first class and well patronized. Both the garage and restaurant are on the same property. The brick building on this property was the first of its kind to be built at North Kingsville, having been built in 1860. The upper portion of the 536 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY building is also occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Nearpass and contains 12 sleeping rooms on one floor and a dance hall on the floor above. On Sept. 30, 1909, Mr. Nearpass was married to Miss Charlotte Harmon, the daughter of Reuben and Charlotte (Hammond) Harmon. Mr. Harmon was born at North Kingsville in 1858 and his family is among the leading pioneer families of Ashtabula County. Mr. Harmon now lives retired on his farm of 35 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Nearpass have a daughter, Charlotte Jane, who was born in 1916. Mr. Nearpass is identified with the Republican party, and he and his family are members of the Presbyterian church. He is a public spirited and progressive business man and has many friends and acquaintances. R. W. Knowlton, a prominent business man of Ashtabula, engaged in the drug business at 40 Depot Street, is a native of Ashtabula County and a member of one of the county's oldest and most prominent families. He was born at Rock Creek, Ohio, Feb. 22, 1867, and is the son of Stephen and Mary (Payne) Knowlton. Stephen Knowlton was born on a farm in Morgan Township, Ashtabula County, in 1824, the son of Calvin Knowlton, who was the son of Stephen Knowlton, a native, of Connecticut and a soldier of the Revolutionary War. Stephen Knowlton was a member of the 5th Company, Colonel Spencer's Regiment of Connecticut Militia. Calvin Knowlton was born in 1783 and was a farmer all his life. His son, Stephen, also engaged in farming and stock raising and died at the age of 84 years. His wife, a native of Orange County, N. Y., died at the age of 74 years. The first frame house to be erected in Morgan Township was built by Calvin Knowlton on May 30, 1830, after he had moved his family to Ashtabula County from Connecticut by oxen teams. To Stephen and Mary (Payne) Knowlton three dhildren were born, as follows : Dwight, died at the age of two and one-half years ; E. P., born in 1865, married Addie Brockway, and they live at Rock Creek, Ohio ; and R. W., the subject of this sketch. R. W. Knowlton received his education in the public schools of Ashtabula County and studied pharmacy in Chicago. In 1901 he established himself in business at Ashtabula, and now owns one of the fine and up-to-date drug stores of the city. Mr. Knowlton has lived in Ashtabula since 1895. In 1895 Mr. Knowlton was married to Miss Jeanette Fortune, a native of Scotland, born in 1870, and the daughter of George and Isabella (Hunter) HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 537 Fortune, who came to this country in 1880, locating in Canada. Later, they removed to Conneaut, Ohio, where Mr. Fortune engaged in the building business. He died in 1923 and his wife lives at Conneaut. Mr. and Mrs. Fortune were the parents of the following children : Cornelius, born in 1868, married Hattie Oakes ; Mrs. Knowlton ; Margaret, born in 1872, married W. K. Wood ; James, born in 1874, married Delia Richards, lives at Mansfield, Ohio ; William, born in 1877, married Grace Tate, lives at Con-neat ; George, born in 1882, lives at Lorain, Ohio, married Pearl Montigney ; and John, born April 29, 1884, married Ruby Loomis, lives at Conneaut. To R. W. and Jeanette (Fortune) Knowlton. three children have been born, as follows : Robert F., born in 1897, married on Nov. 17, 1923, to Florence Kugel, lives in Cleveland ; Neal A., born in 1899, at home ; and Margaret E., born in 1903, at home. Mr. Knowlton is a Republican, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Rotary Club. He is a man of progressive ideas in his business and a citizen of whom the community is proud. Henry Harrison Starkweather. The family of Starkweather was founded by Robert Starkweather, born in Wales, Scotland, or the Isle of Man, who settled in Roxbury, Mass., as early as 1640. He owned land in that place and, according to tradition, also in Boston, a part of what is now known as "Cornhill". He eventually disposed of his estates in Boston and Roxbury and moved to Ipswich, Mass., where he died. He married Jennett Roberts, daughter of John Roberts, of Roxbury, and they were the parents of four children. John Starkweather, son of Robert Starkweather, was born in Roxbury, Mass., and was baptized there Aug. 2, 1646, and died Aug. 21, 1703. His wife, Ann, died in Preston, Conn., in 1727, the mother of seven children. Thomas Starkweather, son of John Starkweather, was born probably at Ipswich, Mass., about 1677, and died in Preston, Conn., April 3, 1751, where he seems to have lived for many years. He was a land owner in that place as early as 1702. He and his wife, Patience, had ten children. Daniel Starkweather, son of Thomas Starkweather, was born at Preston, Conn., and there baptized Feb. 15, 1722. He married, March 26, 1746, Mary Geer, daughter of John and Zerviah Geer, who were born in Preston, Conn., Oct. 11, 1727. They were the parents of ten children. 538 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY Billings Starkweather, son of Daniel Starkweather, was born in Preston, Conn., Aug. 12, 1764. He resided in Preston, Shaftsburg, Bennington County, Vt., and Hune, Allegany County, N. Y. He enlisted in Captain Hutchins' Vermont Militia and served for six months, again enlisting in Captain Stark's Company and serving for 11 months. He was honorably discharged when peace was declared. He drew a pension of $20.00 per annum from April 7, 1837, to June 11, 1846, when it was increased to $34.88 per annum. The Starkweather Genealogy, from which the foregoing facts are taken, has no record of his marriage or of his children. The following facts are from data in the possession of his descendants. Billings Starkweather died in Saybrook, Ohio, in 1856, and was buried in the rear of the Baptist Church, now where the Ashtabula Public Library stands. Among his children were : George, who was a resident of Jefferson, Ohio, and who had descendants in Erie, Pa. ; Chauncey ; a daughter who married a Wickham, and had at least one son, Dr. W. W. Wickham, who, at his death, lived with his daughter, the wife of Dr. W. B. Kreider, of Goshen, Ind. ; Isaac Gottlieb ; and Sylvester, lived in Connecticut. Isaac Gottlieb Starkweather, son of Billings Starkweather, was born March 4, 1815, and died March 22, 1897. He was for at least 55 years a resident of one locality, and for 25 years or more lived on the same farm. He was an interesting, exemplary character of artistic tendencies, and his home, presided over by his sweet, gracious helpmate, was always open to every wayfarer. He is recalled by a grandchild as a great friend of children, for whom he often whittled toys and animals, and he was a lover of music, possessed of a good singing voice. He married first in Portage, N. Y., at the age of 20 years, Marilla Barlow, who died in November, 1842. Isaac Gottlieb Starkweather married second on Nov. 24, 1843, Ann Janet Downing, a girl of 18 years, and two years later they came overland by team, settling in Saybrook, Ohio, on the shore of Lake Erie, about five miles from Ashtabula Harbor. Ann Janet (Downing) Starkweather's death followed her husband's in the same year, Dec. 18, 1897, at the home of her daughter, Lorraine, and it is said of her that she was never happy or contented after his death. The children of Isaac G. Starkweather's first marriage were : Emmeline, married Charles Colburn ; Emerette, married Reuben Knox, and had four children, Howard, of Erie Pa., Bert, of Saybrook, Ohio, Carrie and Belle ; Henry Harrison, the subject of this sketch. The children of Isaac G. Starkweather's second marriage were : Marilla, born Nov. 29, 1845, died May 12, 1920, married William Butcher, and had HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 539 five children: Jerome, born in 1846, died from black measles in the Cleveland Hospital, March 24, 1864. He enlisted in the Sixth Regiment of Ohio Cavalry as a bugler, and in the Battle of Gettysburg was wounded; Mariette, born in 1847, married James Rowley, and resides in Sentinel, Ohio, with her only child, Flora, wife of George Munger; Fanny, born in 1848, married Ed Welton, and met a tragic death by fire in the winter of 1883-4, survived by a number of small children, some of whom are now residents of Ashtabula ; Ella, married M. L. Atwater, and lived in Rock Creek, Ohio, for the greater part of her married life. She had four or five children, one of whom, Ralph, lives in Akron, Ohio ; Lorraine, married Emory Latimer, she has two children, both of whom are married ; Ellsworth, married Mary Wormel, and they are residents of Ashtabula, their three sons all married. Henry Harrison Starkweather, the subject of this sketch, son of Isaac G. Starkweather, was born in Portage, N. Y., Feb. 22, 1840. His mother's death from typhoid fever occurred when he was a child of not quite three years of age, and his early life was spent on the home farm. Even as a boy he was a strong and fearless, yet gentle character, and struggled for the meager education it was possible to get between the long hours necessary for chores before and after school, and the additional discharge of a long walk to the schoolhouse. He had a keen, observing and retentive mind, and was able to sift the grain from the chaff in his early study. On Sept. 18, 1861, he enlisted in the Union Army, and became a member of the Eleventh New York Battery. He was wounded in action at Manassas Station at the beginning of the second Battle of Bull Run, and was discharged from the army because of resulting physical disability, Feb. 5, 1863. After his recuperation he joined the army of the west and served through the remaining years of the war as wagon master. The patriotism that sent him back into the service after serious injury was a distinguishing mark throughout his entire life. After being mustered out of the service he returned to the home farm. The next few years were spent in various lines, including a partnership with B. M. Barber in the sale of pumps and harvesters, and a contract for cutting timber on the Ashtabula river flats, which occupied about one year. When the Nickel Plate road was built through this section he held the grading contract under Mr. Hepburn, the engineer in charge, and this gentleman was so impressed with Mr. Starkweather's energy and initiative that he wished him to continue in railroad construction with him. This was the great business opportunity of Mr. Starkweather's life, 540 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY and he was strongly tempted to accept, but his father's approaching old age and need for the aid and counsel of his son were the determining factors in his rejection of this offer. His filial affection and practical devotion were beautiful to behold, and day after day, upon the completion of his own duties, he would drive five miles to advise and help his father. In 1880 Mr. Starkweather entered into a partnership with his old associate, B. N. Barber, in the lumber and stave business, later devoting himself entirely to his general contracting business. He was connected with the Ford brothers and Mr. Redhead in the development of that part of the city lying east of the river at the harbor, and at the time of his death was associated with Elon G. Pulman. During the years of his residence in Ashtabula he was the chief builder of the city streets, and perhaps 90 percent of the pavement that was laid here during his lifetime was built under his direction. Of this fact he was justly proud. King Street, on which his residence stood, was almost entirely the product of his energy, even to the planting of the trees along its entire length, and all Ashtabula is honeycombed with his work in streets, sewers, and pavements. He also built a large number of residences in the city, and in every way showed his belief in the future development and prosperity of Ashtabula. He was street commissioner of the city for a term of six years, receiving in his candidacy for his second term the support of both of the leading parties. Mr. Starkweather was a man of genial, sociable nature, well liked by all of his associates, and it is said of him that while he insisted on diligent service from his employes, no employer held more implicitly the confidence of his men, and none had less trouble in securing their services. His quickness of temper was forgotten in his unfailing justice, and his ringing laugh was a most pleasing, heartening sound. He was particularly fond of children, and his road cart was usually filled with his little friends. His word given in business or personal relation he considered a sacred obligation, and no sacrifice or privation was too great in support of his pledged word. His life was filled with good works quietly performed. It was his beautiful team that drew the fire engine to the scene of the Ashtabula bridge disaster and for more than 50 hours he worked tirelessly to relieve the sufferers, bringing many of the stricken to the warmth and shelter of his own home. His daughter writes of him : "He was a dear, loving, loyal son, husband and father," and the words of his fellow citizens bear out amply this estimate of his character. Henry Harrison Starkweather married Jan. 9, 1869, Sarah Marie John- HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 541 son, who was born in Watervliet, N. Y., March 4, 1842, and died Feb. 25, 1919. She was the daughter of Isaac Henry and Eliza (Ferguson) Johnson. Mrs. Starkweather came to Ashtabula with her parents and seven brothers when a girl of 16 years. She had been a teacher in the east and soon took up that calling in Ohio, teaching for a time in Saybrook, and then in the Ashtabula public schools until her marriage. "She was of a beautiful, serene Christian character, and loved by everyone who knew her". Isaac Henry Johnson, probably of Holland parentage, was a prosperous farmer and the father of a family of boys whose records in active life are those of useful and successful citizens. Isaac Henry Johnson was a lover of horses, and always had a spirited team in which he took great pride. His wife was a loyal member of the Methodist Church, a woman of many good works. A. L. Johnson, a brother of Mrs. Henry Harrison Starkweather, was a very distinguished citizen of Ohio and Indiana for many years. He was born in Herkimer County, N. Y., and at the age of 12 years came to Ashtabula with his parents. At an early age he became interested in the lumber business and owned and operated a wood factory at Bluffton, Ind., and later engaged in the hardwood lumber business at Montpelier, Ind., with J. T. Arnold, under the firm name of A. L. Johnson & Company. In 1880 he went to Muncie, Ind., where he made his home the remainder of his life, and where he established a hardwood lumber mill. In 1884 he formed a partnership with William F. Hitchcock and founded a factory for the manufacture of skewers and other hardwood products. This plant was known as the Muncie Skewer Company. Mr. Johnson was a devout member of the First Baptist Church, a trustee of the Y. M. C. A., a member of the Board of Governors of the Muncie Home Hospital and president of the Delaware Country Club. He was also a 33rd degree Mason and a member of the Muncie Rotary Club. Mr. Johnson died at the age of 70 years and is buried in Muncie, Ind. To Henry Harrison and Sarah Marie (Johnson) Starkweather three children were born, as follows : Martha Jeanette, lives at 28 Park Street, Ashtabula ; Harrison Henry, married Ella Crotts and they have two daughters, Audrey Marie and Thora Jean ; and Mayme Audrey, born Oct. 27, 1876, died April 16, 1906. She was married on Aug. 17, 1897, to Marriott A. Soules. Mr. Starkweather while engaged in the paving of South Main Street, Ashtabula, was struck by a railroad train on the morning of Nov. 2, 1906, 542 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY and died in an ambulance while being taken to the hospital. His death came with crushing force to his family and cast a pall of sorrow over the entire community. He and his wife, who survived him 13 years, are buried in Edgewood Cemetery, where a beautiful monument marks their last resting place. Joseph Murcerio, who owns and operates the Ashtabula Market House, is a progressive young business man of that section. He is a native of Italy, born April 13, 1891, and the son of Joseph and Theresa Murcerio. In 1901 Joseph Murcerio, Sr., came to this country and located in Pittsburgh, Pa., where he engaged in business. He is now deceased. Joseph Murcerio came to the United States with his father in 1901, and remained in Pittsburgh until 1914, at which time he removed to Ashtabula. Four years later he engaged in business at 28 Spring Street, where he remained until February, 1922. Mr. Murcerio's present place of business at 185 Main Street, which is known as the Ashtabula Market House, is the only market of its kind in the city. He deals in groceries, meats, vegetables and fresh fruits. On Feb. 4, 1912, Mr. Murcerio was married to Miss Sadie Chieramont, the daughter of Joseph and Josephine Chieramont. Mr. and Mrs. Murcerio have two children : Theresa, born Dec. 23, 1919 ; and Josephine, born Jan. 11, 1922. Mr. Murcerio and his family are members of the Catholic Church. R. E. Fowler, proprietor of the Elmwood Fruit Farm, ranks among the leading fruit farmers of Ashtabula County. He was born on North Ridge Road, one mile west of North Kingsville, March 2, 1879, and is a son of Henry W. and Ella Frances (Harmon) Fowler. Henry W. Fowler, who lives retired, was born in Conneaut Township, Ashtabula County, is engaged in dairy farming and for many years has met with success. Mr. and Mrs. Fowler have four children as follows : R. E., the subject of this sketch ; Mrs. Martell, North Kingsville Village; William, deceased ; and one child died in infancy. R. E. Fowler received his education in the Kingsville schools and also attended Spencerian Business College in Cleveland. He engaged in dairy farming with his father until 1913, at which time he became interested in the fruit business. Mr. Fowler now owns three fruit farms, which total 92 acres. HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 543 In 1899 Mr. Fowler was married to Miss Pearl Jacobs, a native of Gambier, Ohio, and a daughter of Alonzo and Catherine Jacobs. Mr. Jacobs died in 1909. He was a veteran of the Civil War and a leading merchant of Gambier for 40 years. His son, L. H. Jacobs, now owns and operates the shoe business there which was established by his father. Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs had three children: H. C., lives in Chicago ; Mrs. Fowler; and L. H., who married Frances Young of Mt. Vernon, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Fowler have two sons : Harold, born Nov. 18, 1900, lives at home, and Theodore Alonzo, born May 16, 1903, was married May 29, 1922, to Virginia Sturgeon and two children have been born to them, Theodore Allen and Donna May. Theodore Alonzo is engaged in farming with his father. Mr. Fowler is a Republican and belongs to the Masonic lodge. He is recognized as one of the representative and substantial citizens of this county and the Fowler family are highly respected citizens of the county. Mrs. R. E. Fowler is interested in the breeding of Chinese Chows and she has won many ribbons at various dog shows. The dogs are highly valued and during the past year Mrs. Fowler sold several puppies, the sale of which totaled $1,100.00. Mr. Fowler is a breeder of Black Silver Foxes, having paid $3,000.00 for his first pair. C. M. Peck, rural mail carrier out of Kingsville, is a substantial and highly esteemed citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born at Kingsville, Oct. 17, 1860, and is the son of Anson and Ellen (Loomis) Peck. Anson Peck was an early settler of Ashtabula County. He lived at Kingsville for many years and was a wagon maker by trade. He died in 1920, and his wife died in 1917. C. M. Peck received his education in the schools of Charlestown, Ohio, and also attended the old academy at Kingsville. For a number of years he was employed at the basket factory there and later engaged in the general merchandise business. After being in business for 15 years, Mr. Peck became a rural mail carrier in 1910 and has since served in that capacity. In 1882, Mr. Peck was married to Miss May Morris, a native of Charlestown, Ohio, and a daughter of S. B. and Sophia (Brown) Morris. Mr. Morris died in 1918 and his wife died in 1923. They were the parents of two children : Mrs. Peck ; and Mrs. R. H. Richa, whose husband 544 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY is a professor of English in the University of Kansas. To C. M. and May (Morris) Peck five children have been born as follows : Carl M., married Jessie Sheldon, lives in Ashtabula, has one son, Sheldon ; Raymond, principal of the high school at Garrettsville, Ohio, married Frances Karnes ; Nora ; Ellen, lives in Columbus ; Lucile, wife of Z. J. Davis, postmaster at Kingsville, has four children, Allen, Stanley, Rosamond and Elizabeth ; Zada, wife Homer C. Porter, lives at Kingsville, and has five children, Charles, Raymond, Jean, Rachel and Fay. Politically, Mr. Peck is a Republican. He and his family are members of the Presbyterian Church and he belongs to the Masonic lodge. M. K. Udell, who is successfully engaged in the taxi business, is a well known citizen and a member of one of Ashtabula County's honored pioneer families. He was born in Ashtabula, May 3, 1883, and is the son of Benjamin Franklin and Nellie (Wakefield) Udell. Benjamin Franklin Udell was a native of Ashtabula County, born Jan. 7, 1829, and the son of Frederick Udell, who was a native of Massachusetts, born in 1781. At an early date Frederick Udel came to Ohio and settled on the banks of the Mills Creek in Ashtabula. He owned one of the early day inns and was also a farmer, having entered a quarter of a section of land between Jefferson and Ashtabula. Mr. Udell was a prominent church worker of his time and walked between 12 and 15 miles each Sunday to attend services. John Udell, a brother of Frederick, was also widely known as one of the pioneers of the county. He wrote a history of his travels and experiences, which he believed would be of great value to the early day traveler. Mr. Udell made many trips across the county to California and his records show that he traveled 110,000 miles, 16,000 miles of which he walked. Benjamin Franklin Udell was a farmer during his life and died in 1914. His wife, who was born at Plymouth, Ohio, July 30, 1844, is still living on the home place in Jefferson. Mr. and Mrs. Udell had three sons as follows : Benjamin, born Aug. 17, 1875, a farmer, lives at Jefferson, married Miss Cornelia Battington ; Henry, born Oct. 25, 1879, a locomotive engineer, lives at Cleveland, married Lottie Freeman, and they have three children, Henry, Mary and Grace ; and M. K., the subject of this sketch. M. K. Udell spent his boyhood on his father's farm and received his education in the public schools of Jefferson. He engaged in farming when HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 545 a young man and later was employed in Ashtabula as a street car conductor. For three years he was a fireman on the New York Central Railroad and in 1908 engaged in the grocery and meat business at 23 Station Street, which he conducted successfully for 11 years. In 1919 Mr. Udell became interested in the taxi business in Ashtabula and was located at 23 Station Street. In 1921 he built a garage, 120x35 feet at 49 Station Street, where he is at present located. He owns and operates seven large automobiles and does a large volume of business throughout the city. Mr. Udell claims he was the first man in the community to lower taxi rates, his fare from uptown to the depot being only 15 cents. His mileage rate is also 15 cents per mile. On Feb. 17, 1908, Mr. Udell was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Kelley, a native of Erie, Pa., and the daughter of James and Anna Kelley, both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Udell have two sons : Richard, born in August, 1909 ; and Donald, born Feb. 18, 1914. Mr. Udell is identified with the Republican party in politics. His wife is a member of the Catholic church. G. N. Crowther, an enterprising and successful young merchant of North Kingsville and postmaster of that place, was born in that village, March 6, 1896, and is the son of C. E. and Elizabeth (Lyon) Crowther. C. E. Crowther was a native of Kingsville, born in 1856. He was a prominent fruit farmer of Ashtabula County for many years and retired in 1920. Mr. Crowther died Aug. 4, 1924, and his wife died Nov. 16, 1924, both are buried in East Lake Cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. Crowther were the parents of the following children : Herman E., lives at Jefferson, Ohio, married Ida Powers, and they have a daughter, Harriet ; Catherine, married C. D. Force, lives at North Kingsville, Ohio, and they have five children, Robert,. Elizabeth, Charles, Glenn and Homer ; C. V., lives in Cleveland, married Miss Sylva Mullen of Alliance, Ohio ; and G. N., the subject of this sketch. G. N. Crowther has spent his entire life in Ashtabula County. After attending the public schools of North Kingsville, he was graduated from Ashtabula High School in 1915. He then engaged in the general merchandise business at North Kingsville, just across the street from his present location. In 1918 he sold his business and enlisted in the merchant marines, and served in that branch of the service for eight months. Upon (33) 546 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY his return to North Kingsville, Mr. Crowther opened his present place of business. He handles a fine line of groceries and general merchandise, and also has the postoffice in connection. On July 16, 1918, Mr. Crowther was united in marriage with Miss Gretchen Hollister, a native of Kingsville, and the daughter of T. S. and Eleanor Hollister, residents of North Kingsville. The Hollister family ranks among the leading pioneer families of Ashtabula County. Mr. and Mrs. Crowther have no children. In politics Mr. Crowther is identified with the Republican party and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church and are widely and favorably known throughout the county. W. E. Richmond, a well known citizen of Ashtabula County, who is engaged in the furniture and undertaking business at Kingsville, was born there July 28, 1887, and is a son of George D. and Florence (Hart) Richmond. George D. Richmond was a native of Watertown, N. Y., who came to Ashtabula County with his parents at the age of 14 years. They settled at Kingsville where Mr. Richmond was reared by Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, his parents having died soon after their arrival at Kingsville. Mr. Richmond operated a tannery at Kingsville in partnership with Mr. Thompson for several years, after which he established the furniture business now conducted by his son. Their first building, located where the post office now stands, burned in 1918 and the two story building across the street from the post office, now owned by Mr. Richmond was purchased by his father about the year of 1918. In 1920, W. E. Richmond bought the building from his mother. The father died Nov. 24, 1920. The mother lives at Jamestown, N. Y. W. E. Richmond was educated at Kingsville and when a young man went to Pittsburgh, Pa., where he remained 18 years. While there he became the owner of four motion picture theatres, besides other business interests. After his father's death he returned to Kingsville and took charge of the business, which is one of the oldest of its kind in Ashtabula County. In connection with the furniture and undertaking business, Mr. Richmond deals in wall paper and paint. Mr. Richmond was married to Miss Althea Hays of Pittsburgh, Pa., the daughter of Bert and Clara (Markel) Hays. Mr. and Mrs. Richmond HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 547 have two children : June, who was graduated from the Kingsville Normal School at the age of 17 years ; and George A., a student. Miss Richmond is the only pupil that has ever completed the four year course at Kingsville Normal School in three years. Mr. Richmond is a member of the Presbyterian church and belongs to the Masonic lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a member of the State Police and is Secretary of the Kingsville Fire Department. Mr. Richmond is a progressive citizen, who merits the esteem in which he is held by his fellow citizens. Mrs. Margaret R. Thompson, known as Nellie Thompson, a widely known and highly esteemed citizen of Ashtabula County, who lives at Kingsville, is a native of Ohio. She was born at Kingsville, June 10, 1840, and is a daughter of Moses and Ruth (Pearsall) Pease. Moses Pease was born at Plainfield, Oswego County, N. Y., in 1804, and came to Ohio in 1838. He was a mason by trade and also farmed 25 acres of land which he purchased in Kingsville Township. Mr. Pease later purchased a home at Kingsville where he died in 1896. His wife, also a native of New York, born Oct. 8, 1809, died in 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Pease, who were married in 1830, were the parents of the following children: Samuel, born Feb. 24, 1831, deceased ; Roland, born Dec. 29, 1836, deceased; H. H. born March 19, 1849, mention of whom is made below ; Sarah, born Feb. 30, 1833, deceased ; Clarinda, born Dec. 3, 1834, deceased ; Frederick, born in 1838, deceased ; and Margaret R., the subject of this sketch. H. H. Pease, who lives with his sister, Mrs. Thompson, was married to Miss Mary E. Barnum, of Rock Creek, Ohio, and to this union five children were born, as follows : F. A., married Miss Bell White, lives in Cleveland, where he is head of the F. A. Pease Engineering Company ; William E., a chief engineer for the Van Sweringen Brothers of Cleveland, lives in Lakewood, Ohio ; Harry R., doctor of osteopathy, lives at Steubenville, Ohio ; Charles N., a locomotive engineer on the Nickel Plate Railroad, lives in Buffalo, N. Y.; and Nellie N., died at the age of 11 years. Miss Margaret R. Pease has always lived in Ashtabula County. She was married to George Washington Thompson, who died in 1909. He owned a tannery at Kingsville for many years, which was built by Thomas Richmond and Julius Murray. To Mr. and Mrs. Thompson four children 548 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY were born, as follows : Gaylord Grant, lives in Conneaut, where he is chief clerk for the New York Central Railroad freight office, married Jennie Robinson and have a daughter, Aimee Thompson, who lives in Los Angeles, Calif., a motion picture actress, her stage name being Mae Busch ; Raymond Clark, a telegraph operator, lives at Kingsville, married Etta Southwick, and they have three children, Gordon, Graedon, and Pearl Westfalls ; Pearl E. Eastman, lives at Kingsville, and she has three children, Raymond Genivieve, and Marian ; and Carlton H., an attorney, lives in Idaho, married Abbie Ingersoll. Mrs. Thompson has twelve great grandchildren and twelve grandchildren. Mr. Thompson was a member of the Baptist church, as is his wife. The Thompson family is among the prominent and honored pioneer families of Ashtabula County. C. E. Hawkins, a well known jeweler and watchmaker of Ashtabula County, who lives at Kingsville, is a native of Ohio. He was born at Kelloggsville, Oct. 15, 1867, and is a son of C. S. and Laura (Colburn) Hawkins. C. S. Hawkins was a native of Kingsville, born in 1847. His parents came to this county from Connecticut in the early days. C. S. Hawkins was a cooper by trade and for many years owned a general merchandise store at Kelloggsville. He served during the Civil War and died in 1920. His wife lives at Kingsville and is 78 years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins had four children as follows : May, married W. E. Peck, and they have two children, Roland and Marion ; C. E., the subject of this sketch ; Grace E., born in 1869, married M. Hopkins, lives at Kingsville ; and Leva R., born in 1871, married M. Griggs, and they have two children, Homer and Howard. C. E. Hawkins received his education in the public schools of Kelloggsville, where he spent his boyhood. He learned his trade as a watchmaker at LaPorte, Ind., and engaged in the jewelry business in 1883 at Kingsville. In 1911 Mr. Hawkins was married to Miss Calista R. Richmond, of Kingsville, and the daughter of G. D. and Florence Richmond. Mr. Richmond was a prominent business man of Kingsville for many years and died in 1920. His wife lives at Jamestown, N. Y. To Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins has been born one child, Laura Florence, born in 1920. Mr. Hawkins is a Republican and served as township clerk for 16 years. HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY - 549 Miss Frances E. Holden is a member of one of the prominent pioneer families of Ashtabula County. She was born at North Kingsville, July 12, 1862, and is the daughter of Ira and Sara J. (Phelps) Holden. Ira Holden was a native of North Kingsville and a leading citizen of that section during his life. He was a building contractor and died in July, 1913. Mr. Holden was a well known musician and was a member of the choir of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Ashtabula, where his father had served as choir leader. In 1861 Mr. Holden was married to Sara J. Phelps, also a native of North Kingsville, born April 30, 1839. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Francis B. Phelps. Her father was the son of D. C. Phelps who settled at North Kingsville in 1811. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Holden lived on the old Phelps farm where they spent the remainder of their lives. Mrs. Holden died in May, 1922, and is buried in East Lake Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Holden one child was born, Frances E., the subject of this sketch. Miss Frances E. Holden has spent her entire life at the ancestral home. After attending the schools there she was graduated with her mother in the Chatauqua Reading Course in 1889, and afterward graduated in physical culture and graduated at the Scorer School of Elocution and Oratory in Cleveland and was a student of music. Miss Holden is a member of the Presbyterian Church of North Kingsville and has served as Sunday School superintendent for a number of years. She has always taken an active interest in club work and both she and her mother were members of the Orion Chapter No. 12 Order Eastern Star, Kingsville. Miss Holden is esteemed throughout the community as a woman of high ideals. A. A. Mack, deceased, was a resident of Ashtabula County during his entire life. He was born at Sheffield, in 1853, the son of Albert and Rachel (Rogers) Mack. A. A. Mack attended the district schools of Ashtabula County and when a young man learned the painter's trade which he successfully followed until the time of his death. Mr. Mack was employed by the New York Central Railroad for many years and as a foreman had charge of decorating the railroad depots in this section of the state. He died in 1913 and is buried at North Kingsville. On Jan. 16, 1895, Mr. Mack was married to Miss Alta Sheldon, a member of one of Ashtabula County's honored pioneer families. She is