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JOHN T. ADAMS, farmer; P. O. Urbana; was born in this county Feb. 29, 1832. Is a son of Thomas and Mary (Long) Adams-he probably a native of Virginia and she of Kentucky-becoming citizens of Ohio when very young and residents of this county at a very day, being numbered among its early settlers. After his marriage, he lived a few years in this county, then went to Allen Co., where he lived till his death. He was killed in the fall of 1836 by a falling tree, while he, with several others, were cutting out a new road through a piece of timber land. His wife died in January, 1873. They were the parents of five children; two now survive-John T. and James. Our subject being only about 4 or 5 years of age when his father died, the mother had the care of her children, whom she raised till John was 15 years of age, when she married Benjamin P. Gaines, of Clark Co., Ohio. Our subject then lived with his step-father until 22 years of age. In 1855, he went to Allen Co. Was married March 2, 1867, to Miss Violetta, daughter of Joseph and Celia Russell, he a native of Virginia and she of this county. As the issue they have one child-Charles. Mr. Adams resided in Allen Co. until 1874, then returned to Champaign Co., where he has since resided. He has always followed farming as an occupation, and is now located on the William Long, Sr., farm, on Sec 2. Politically, Mr. Adams is a Republican.
JAMES BLACK, farmer; P. O. West Liberty; born Feb. 8,1798; a native of Kentucky ; is a son of Alexander and Jane (Crocket) Black, natives of Virginia. He emigrated to Kentucky in a very early day; was one of the pioneers of that State, and took quite a part in the defense of the settlers against the hostile Indians, who were at that time very troublesome. He married in Kentucky; in 1809, removed to Ohio, and located in Salem Township, Champaign Co., where he arrived May 12. The settlers were " few and far between," and with difficulty they obtained help enough to raise their log cabins; but, by the assistance of friendly Indians, they succeeded. He was with Gen. Wayne in his march against the Indians, and, in the battle of the Maumee, fought Aug. 20, 1794, he was wounded. A treaty of peace was finally concluded in 1796. He was also in the war of 1812, and held a commission as Captain. He experienced the many trials and hardships of pioneer life, and bore his share in the conflicts with the Indians and in the war of 1812. After peace was declared, he once more entered upon the work upon his farm, and here remained in peace the balance of his life. He died in June, 1854, nearly 90 years of age. His wife, who died in August, 1849, was 80 years of age. They had eight children, all now deceased but our subject, who was the third child of his father's family. He was married, March 6, 1832, to Miss Caroline, daughter of John and Susan (Douglass) Culbertson, natives of Pennsylvania. They have had eight children; six now survive-Lucy A., Alexander C., Caroline, John R., Elizabeth and James W. Mr. Black has always followed farming, and since his marriage has never resided outside of Salem Township, but has always lived within two miles of the old home place, and has been a resident of his present place twenty-four years. He has never held nor sought office, but is a quiet, unassuming man, attending closely to his business; a kind husband and father, a good neighbor and generally respected by all who know him.
STEPHEN F. CONREY, retired minister; P. O. King's Creek; born in Butler Co., Ohio, Aug. 28, son of Jonathan and Mary (Ford) Conrey, he a native of New York, and she of Maryland, the ancestry being from Ireland. Jonathan became a resident of Kentucky about 1798, and of Ohio about 1809, where he lived and died. He was first married in Kentucky Oct. 6, 1789, to Nancy Downing, by whom he had nine children, all now deceased; his wife died Jan. 16, 1809. He was married to his second wife, Mrs. Mary Parish, May 4, 1809; they had seven children, three now living- Stephen F., Mary and Jacob. The father died Oct. 16, 1841; the mother died
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Aug. 28, 1851. Our subject was raised to farm labor, received a good common school education, with some additional advantages of the academy. Became a member of the Methodist Church at 18 years of age. Feeling a call to the ministry, he commenced to preach at 20 years of age, and has been faithfully engaged in ministerial duties for forty-one years, in various parts of the State. During this long ministerial work, he has been permitted to extend the hand of fellowship to hundreds of converted souls, and bid them Godspeed in their journey heavenward. He has had a long and faithful life, and has worn out his physical strength in behalf of the Church and the salvation of souls. His health failing, he was made a Superannuate in 1877. In speaking of the proceedings of the Conference after the above action, the Christian Advocate contained the following touching his great life-work: "At the Saturday morning session, Stephen F. Conrey, after a successful and beloved ministry of forty-one years, was placed on the list of Superannuates. The blessings and prayers of thousands will accompany him." In 1877, he bought the farm upon which he now lives, and located upon the same in 1878, where he now lives, retired from active labor, his farm being carried on by his son. He has 70 acres of excellent land, good buildings and improvements, constituting a pleasant home and residence. Mr. Conrey was married, May 22, 1839, to Miss Margaret, daughter of Jacob and Mary Hunsaker, natives of Pennsylvania. They had two children, one now surviving-Wilbur F.
AMOS N. COUCHMAN, farmer and tile-manufacturer, Urbana; a native of this county, born Feb. 26, 1843; is a son of Michael and Elizabeth (Neer) Couchman, natives of Virginia, who were early settlers of this county, locating first on the Dugan Prairie, thence about two miles south of West Liberty, where he lived some eight or ten years ; thence removed into Harrison Township, where he resided till his death, in the spring of 1863. His wife still lives on the home place. They had seven children - Jacob, Amos N., Amanda, James, Nancy, Lewis and Emma. Mr. Couchman was twice married; by his first wife he had five children-Mary, Henry, Rebecca, Sarah and Rachel. His last wife, Elizabeth, was first married to Mr. Demory, by whom she had four children-John, Sarah, Susan and Matilda (deceased). Mr. Couchman followed farming as the main business of his life, and was a very active Christian worker in the Methodist Episcopal Church ; a class leader and a leading man in the church. He was one who had the confidence of the community, and a large circle of friends and acquaintances. Our subject remained with his father till his death. He was married April 18, 1870, to Miss Fidelia, daughter of William and Anna (Lewis) Rose. They had four children-Wilbur (deceased), Vernon, Clyde and Emma. Mr. Couchman located in Harrison Township, and followed farming till May, 1876, when he located at his present place of residence. He has a good farm, but is giving his main attention to the manufacture of tile. He has the only steam-power crusher for preparing the clay, in the county, which performs the work much more thoroughly and rapidly, and without doubt, makes better tile than can be made by horse-power, and we have no doubt that he will take the lead in this branch of business in the county. Mr. Couchman and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is occupying the same positions in the church which his father filled so long and faithfully.
SAMUEL COWGILL, farmer; P. O. King's Creek, born in this county July 31, 1831 ; is a son of Henry and Anna Cowgill. Our subject lived at home with his parents till April 5, 1860, when he was united in marriage with Miss Carrie E., daughter of Joshua and Eliza Buffington, natives of Pennsylvania, but who became quite early settlers of Champaign Co. His wife died June 2, 1863. He was again married April 6, 1865, to Mary E., daughter of Haines and Ann Linville. They had one child, dying in infancy. Mr. Cowgill after his first marriage, emigrated West, and located in Kansas, where he lived some four years, but, on account of the ill health of his wife, returned to Ohio in the fall of 1862. After his second marriage he located upon the farm where he now lives and has since resided. The farm consists of 200 acres of land, mostly in cultivation and pasturage, with good improvements. He also owns 500 acres of land in
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Kansas, and has always followed agricultural pursuits, giving considerable attention to raising and dealing in stock. Politically, Mr. Cowgill is a Republican, though not a seeker of office, yet the people have placed their confidence dente in him, and he has held some offices of the township ; is at present Township Trustee, serving on his fourth year. He and family belong to the Society of Friends, to whose faith he has been warmly attached.
THOMAS A. COWGILL, farmer; P. O. Kennard; was born on the farm where he now resides July 21, 1840, and is a son of Henry and Anna (Marmon) Cowgill. He is a native of Ohio and she of North Carolina. The paternal grandfather, Thomas, was a native of Virginia, and emigrated to the then Northwest Territory and located in what is now Ohio about 1800. He became a resident of Champaign Co. in 1817. The maternal grandfather, Martin Marmon, became an early settler of Logan Co., taking an active part in the organization of that county, and for many years in its civil administration. Henry Cowgill followed agricultural pursuits during his life, and was among the most prominent and successful farmers of this county, acquiring a large amount of real estate and a good competency of this world's goods. He was not a man who sought or desired office, preferring a quiet farmer's life and the enjoyment of his home and family. He, however, served in some of the minor offices of his neighborhood and township; was Township Treasurer some thirty-three years. He was the father of nine children-Angeline, Eliza, Elects, Sarah, Samuel, Susan, Martha, Thomas A. and Cynthia. He died Sept. 12, 1869. His wife is still living with our subject on the old home place, aged 75 years, enjoying good health physically and mentally, and has been a continued resident here for fifty-four years. Our subject lived with his father and engaged in agricultural pursuits until his manhood, enjoying merely the advantages of a common-school education. Under the manual labor upon the farm, he grew up to maturity, physically and intellectually strong, and possessing a natural strength of mind and great force and energy of character. Notwithstanding the limited advantages for acquiring an education, he became a more than ordinarily accomplished gentleman, and is really " a self-made man." In early manhood, the war period dawned upon our country, and he, catching the martial spirit, enlisted with many of his companions in the defense of his country, and was made Captain of Co. E, 95th 0. V. I., with which he served in the Army of the Mississippi, participating in many of the sanguinary encounters in which that corps was engaged with the enemy. Being mustered out of the service upon the restoration of peace, he returned to his home and the quiet pursuits of his farm, engaging extensively in stock-raising, to which he has given his main attention to the present time. Mr. Cowgill has given some attention to the study of law, but has never been admitted to the bar, his other employments being enough to render his life an active and busy one. He has filled many minor offices of the township, and was elected as a Republican to the House of Representatives in 1875, serving with credit to himself in the 62d General Assembly. He was Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture. His acquaintance with the practical part of that science rendered him the right man in the right place. He was re-elected to the General Assembly in 1877, and again in 1879, being the first person ever elected to represent the county for three consecutive terms. He was chosen Speaker of the House of Representatives at the organization of the General Assembly Jan. 4, 1880, which position he now holds. Mr. Cowgill is possessed of a well-proportioned, manly frame, and has a commanding appearance; is a social gentleman, easy of approach, and possessing great ease and affableness of manner. He has formed; during his residence at the capital, friendships that will endure for life.
JACOB DAELHOUSEN, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; was born in Pennsylvania, Nov. 11, 1825; is a son of Daniel and Barbara (North) Daelhousen, natives of Pennsylvania. The grandfather, Henry D., was a native of Germany, emigrating to this country shortly after the Revolutionary war, during Adams' administration. The grand mother, Catharine, was a native of Pennsylvania. Daniel was born, lived and died
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upon the old homestead farm in Pennsylvania; he died Feb. 4, 1880; his wife died some five or six years previous to his death. They were parents of eleven children ; eight now survive-Jacob, Andrew, David, Elizabeth, William, Sarah, Daniel and John Allen. Our subject remained at home until his majority; he then worked on various farms for wages, for several years, and was married May 18, 1854, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John and Catharine Weaver, natives of Pennsylvania. They were parents of seven children, five now living-Rosanna, Elizabeth, Margaret, Catharine and Samuel H. Mr. Daelhousen and wife have had three children, two now living John Warren and Laura Belle. Mr. Daelhousen left Pennsylvania; and came to Ohio, locating in Clark Co. in 1847. He has always followed the honorable occupation of farming, and has lived since the above date in Clark and Champaign Cos. He bought and located upon his present farm in 1872, where he has since resided. He owns 93 acres of good land, mostly in cultivation, with good buildings and improvements, making a very pleasant home and residence, situated about three and one-half miles from Urbana. He has, by his own labor and industry, made a success of life, and is now possessed of a good property and home, with all necessary comforts and conveniences. He and wife are members of the German Reformed Church.
MARTIN M. DICKINSON, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Urbana; born in Logan Co., Ohio, Feb. 20, ; is a son of Thomas and Maria (Lowe) Dickinson; he is a native of Pennsylvania, and she of Virginia. They emigrated from Virginia, and located in Logan Co., in 1812, where they resided till their death. She died in October, 1870, and he in May, 1879. They were the parents of fourteen children : ten now survive-Eliza, Robert, Nelson, Margaret, Hannah, Martin, Duncan M., Joshua, Lewis and Samuel. As early pioneers of that county, they experienced the hardships of those days; he was engaged in the war of 1812, and drew a pension. About two or three years after locating, his log cabin was burnt, with everything they possessed, which in that day was a great calamity. To replace his household goods, he journeyed to Virginia and obtained a feather-bed and other goods, which he brought through on horseback, and then started anew in life again. These troubles " tried their souls;" but, being a man of energy and industry, he made progress and became possessed of a good home and a large estate before his death. Our subject, at 16 years of age, went to Zanesfield and learned the blacksmith trade, which business he followed with success for twenty years, accumulating several thousand dollars. Then he turned his attention to farming and stock-raising, following this business in Logan Co. about seven years, finally locating in Champaign Co., where he has continued the same business. In business Mr. Dickinson has been very successful, and now owns seven to eight hundred acres of land. He has built a fine residence on his farm on Sec. 8, in Salem Township, where he has fine improvements and a beautiful home ; has never held or sought office, but has given his attention strictly to business; being a man of energy and quick perceptions, he has been successful and accumulated a large competency. He was united in marriage Nov. 6, 1842, to Miss Margaret, daughter of Robert and Mary Rea, natives of Virginia. They have six children, five living Semantha, Louisa, Adelia, Rea and Cora.
JAMES DUNCAN, farmer; P. O. Urbana; born in Scotland,in February, 1818. Is a son of James and Elsbet Duncan, who lived and died in Scotland. They were par ents of ten children, four now living-John, James, Ebenezer and Elsbet. Mr. Duncan emigrated to America in 1854, and located in Champaign Co., where he has since resided, and always followed farming as an occupation. He has cultivated several different farms in the county, and is now living upon the farm of John Gordon, where he has resided for eight years. He was married in Scotland, Dec. 1, 1843, to Isabel, daughter of Alexander and Margaret (Lumsden) Stewart, natives of Scotland. She was born Sept. 1, 1818. Her mother, Margaret Lumsden, then 75 years of age, came across the ocean with them to this country and lived here ten years, dying at the ripe old age of 85 years. Mr. Duncan and wife have had nine children, all living, six born in Scotland-Janet, Charles, James. John Alexandrina and Alexander; three born in
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this county-Margaret Elsbet, Isabel Jane and David Ebenezer. Mr. Duncan, after his marriage, lived in Scotland about eleven years, then came to America, and located in this county. He worked by the month for James A. McLain, with whom he continued ten years; then he rented a farm, and has since continued on rented farms to this date. Mr. Duncan has never held nor sought office, but has devoted himself exclusively to farm labor, and the raising and educating of his interesting family of children, all of whom have lived to grow to maturity and can now be a great help and blessing to their parents in their old age. Mr. Duncan and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, having been such for forty-six years. They have also had the pleasure to see all their children become members of the same church.
JOSEPH K. FUNK, farmer; P. O. Urbana; was born in Pennsylvania Jan. 22, 1815. Is a son of Daniel and Frances (Kenaga) Funk, natives of Pennsylvania; also the grandparents were natives of the same State. Daniel and wife became residents of Ohio, locating in Salem Township, this county, about 1837, where they resided on their farm until 1875, then retired from the farm and located in Urbana, where they spent the remainder of their lives. He died April 14, 1879 ;, his wife died April 21, 1857. After the death of his wife, he was married again to Mrs. Harriet Reed; she is still living and resides in Urbana. As the issue of his first marriage they had three children; two now survive-Elizabeth Ann (now Mrs. Byers) and Joseph K. Our subject was raised on the farm, remaining with his father until of age. He was married Dec. 1, 1840, to Miss Maria, daughter of Nathaniel and Mary Hunter, of Virginia. They had eight children, four now living-Mary Frances, Emma Annette, Charles E. and Effie May. Mr. Funk, after his marriage, located upon the farm where he now lives, and has here made a continued residence of forty-four years. He has a fine farm of 280 acres, with good buildings and improvements, and everything in order, constituting a pleasant home and residence. His wife died March 13, 1874. Mr. Funk is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; politically, be is a Republican.
JACOB S. FUNK, farmer; P. O. West Liberty, Logan Co. Born Feb. 1,1815; is a native of Maryland; son of Joel and Elizabeth (Kanaga) Funk; he is a native of York Co., Penn., and she of Lancaster County. They became residents of Champaign Co., Salem Township, in 1829, and always remained here and followed the occupation of a farmer till his death, which occurred Jan. 5, 1864; his wife died March 22, 1877. Of eight children, four now survive-Jacob S., Emily A., Caroline E. and Aaron B. Mr. Funk was born June 16, 1790, hence at his death was about 74 years of age. He was raised under pious parents of the Dunkard persuasion, and, although somewhat wild in his youth, and a lover of fun, yet he was kind and thoughtful in his nature, and, under the careful teaching of his parents, early became religiously inclined. In 1811, he joined the M. E. Church, in which he continued a most ardent worker during his entire life, filling the most important positions in the church, being a very earnest and successful class-leader, and an energetic Sabbath-school worker; in his death the people lost a faithful and kind neighbor, and the church one of its most devoted and earnest workers. His wife was a true helpmeet and companion through life, and a most devoted Christian woman, having joined the church at the early age of 13 years; hence at her death had been a Christian worker for threescore and ten years. Such was the work and Christian example of these faithful pioneers. Our subject was married, June 13, 1844, to Miss Sarah G., daughter of James and Martha (Turner) Long, he a native of Kentucky, and she of Pennsylvania, her grandfather, Jonathan Long, being one of the early settlers, whose history will enter largely into the history of this county. Mr. Funk and wife, by their union, have had five children-Leander W. (an attorney, now in the Treasury Department at Washington, where he has been for fourteen years), Theodore K. (a graduate of Delaware in a classical course, and now practicing law in Portsmouth, Ohio), Rovilla A. (also educated in a scientific course at Delaware), Eugene T. (a graduate of Commercial College at Cincinnati), and James L. (a
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graduate of the high school at Urbana). Mr. Funk has followed agricultural pursuits through his life; has been a very successful farmer, and an earnest Christian man in the M. E. Church, following the footsteps of his honored and faithful father. The work he has done for his children is a noble one, giving them all a thorough education. to prepare them well for honorable and useful positions in life, and thus far they have taken high positions and are doing well. Politically, Mr. Funk is an earnest and stanch Republican, and usually a delegate to most of their conventions.
JOHN R. GARARD, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Urbana; born in Virginia Feb. 19, 1824; is a son of John and Elizabeth (Robinson) Garard, natives of Virginia. The grandfather and two or three generations of their ancestors are all natives of Virginia, the ancestors being very early settlers of that State, their line of descent being from France. The father lived and died in Virginia, but the wife, after his death, came to this county and resided with her daughter, where she died April 8, 1877. They were parents of eight children; six now survive-Thomas, John R., Ruth E., Simmons, Sarah E. and Susan Jane. Our subject left Virginia and located in Greene Co. in the fall of 1845; then in the spring of 1846 removed to this county and resided till 1854. He went to Wisconsin and lived there two and a half years, then returned to Champaign Co. and located near Kennard, residing there till April, 1864. He bought and located, where he now lives, sixteen years ago. Has 250 acres of excellent land, all under fine cultivation, with good buildings and improvements, constituting a very beautiful home and residence. He was married, June 15, 1848, to Miss Mary Jane, daughter of John and Rebecca Osborn, natives of Kentucky. They have nine children, all living-Rebecca, Mattis, Adeline, Irvin, Ora, Sarah Elizabeth, Sidney, Fannie and Frank (twins).' In 1845, when Mr. Garard came to this county, he was possessed of a horse, saddle and bridle, and a suit of clothes. Now he is worth many thousand dollars, all made and accumulated by his own labor, industry and good management. He has the entire confidence of the community in which he lives; has held the office of Township Trustee for several years, and has been asked to run for many of the offices of his township and county, but refuses, preferring to quietly attend to his own business and enjoy the pleasures of his home and family. His life is an example of unselfishness, uprightness and prosperity.
BENJAMIN W. GERMAN, farmer and minister; P. O. King's Creek. Among the prominent farmers and citizens of Salem Township, we here record the name of Benjamin W. Gehman, who was born in Berks Co., Penn., Jan. 9, 1820; is a son of Benjamin and Magdaline (Weaver) Gehman, natives of Lancaster Co., Penn. The grandfather, Benjamin Gehman, was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1741, and, when about 9 years of age, or in 1750, came to America, locating in Lancaster Co., Penn., where he resided till his death. Benjamin, the father of our subject, was raised to farm labor, remaining with his father till he grew to maturity; in 1809, was married to Magdaline Weaver, and, in 1813, located in Berks Co., having bought a farm which, in its geographical position, lay in three counties-Lancaster, Chester and Berks-the residence being in the latter county. The house was built in 1774, and occupied as a kind of block-house and fortification during the wars and Indian troubles. The stone walls were three feet thick ; very small windows, and doors made of two thicknesses of inch oak plank, and barred and bolted together in such manner as to constitute them almost impregnable from without; and in this house our subject was born and passed his childhood days, till about 14 years of age, when his father sold the homestead part of the farm, reserving that portion located in Lancaster Co., where he erected building and spent the remainder of his life, in the quiet enjoyment of the comforts and conveniences which his own labor and industry had acquired ; and, in honor to him, we may add, that when he bought this farm, which was during the war troubles of 1812, many of his friends and neighbors predicted he could never pay for it, but his energy, industry and good management were sufficient for the occasion and he went safely through, and his last days were passed n comfort and plenty. They were parents
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nine children, six daughters and three sons, of whom seven now survive-Frances, now Mrs. Mast, living in Pennsylvania; Nancy, now Mrs. Mast, of Iowa; Magdaline, now Mrs. Zook, of Olney, Ill.; Catharine, now Mrs. Frescoln, of McLean Co., Ill.; Isaac, unmarried ; Benjamin W., and Joseph, who is married, and residing in Indiana; two daughters deceased-Elizabeth, who married William Walton, had a large family, thirteen children, eleven now living. Mr. Walton died in 1846, and his wife about two years later; and Mary, who married Josiah F. Kanaga, who lives in Kansas, and who had six children, now living-she died about six years ago. Our subject was raised to farm labor, obtaining but a limited education under the few facilities presented to him in that early day. There being no railroads in that day, transportations were all made by teams, and our subject, before 11 years of age, was employed as a teamster and followed this business till 18 years of age; was then presented with a horse by his father. About this time, a call was made from the United States Government for a company to start from Iowa to explore and lay out an overland route to Oregon, and Mr. Gehman concluded to join the company, and started for Iowa, riding the entire distance on horseback, but after his arrival the matter fell through, for want of a sufficient number of men to make it safe to proceed with the undertaking. Mr. Gehman then traveled through several of the Western States on a tour of observation, making the entire tour of 4,000 miles on horseback, and returned to Pennsylvania to his father, where he remained until 22 years of a age.
In August, 1842, was married to Elizabeth Morris and started for the West, the objective point being Iowa, but on arriving in Champaign Co., at Mr. Zook's, his brother-in-law, his wife was taken very sick, and a consultation of physicians was held, and her life nearly despaired of, but she finally recovered. In the meantime, by the influence of his friends, he was induced to purchase and locate upon the place where he now resides. This farm of 200 acres he purchased of Rev. George W. Walker, a noted itinerant of the Methodist Episcopal Church of that day, paying $11 per acre; here Mr. Gehman has resided ever since, a period of thirty-seven years. To this possession he has at various times added, by purchase, till now he owns over 500 acres of some of the best land of Champaign Co. Mr. Gehman has lived a life of great activity, and his industry and labor have been rewarded by an abundant success, and, in all his business relations with the community, he has maintained the strictest integrity, and, probably, none stand in higher esteem or possessing the respect of the entire community than he. Religiously, Mr. Gehman's life is full of interest and usefulness. He united with the Methodist Episcopal Church Jan. 18, 1836; was licensed to exhort, in August, 1840, in Morgantown, Penn.; and licensed as a preacher in 1848, and ordained in 1856, at Ripley, Ohio, by Bishop Ames, since which time he has continued constantly in the work and service of his master. He has experienced much joy and comfort in his great Christian work; has been the means of building and organizing two churches -one at Kennard, called "Forbus Chapel," and the " Local Preacher's Chapel," three and a half miles northeast of Urbana-besides great work done in other places. During his ministry, he has had the pleasure to extend the hand of fellowship to over two hundred persons. One remarkable incident in his work worthy of record here, was the conversion of Mrs. Higbee from the Roman Catholic faith to Protestantism. At the funeral of her first-born child, Mr. Gehman preached from the text: "It cannot come to me, but I can go to it." From this day her mind became awakened and she was converted, and has since been a very active and useful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
We will now close the imperfect sketch of Mr. Gehman's eventful and useful life, desiring that he may at the last great day receive his crown, with " many stars of rejoicing." Mr. Gehman and wife have four children-Ells M., Anna M., Benjamin Franklin and William M.; Ella and Franklin now reside in Kansas. Mrs. Gehman died Jan. 31, 1876. She was a woman of more than ordinary intelligence, with great moral and Christian worth. On May 23, 1878, he was married to Helena Brown, a sister of Dr. J. C. Brown, of Urbana. She is a native of Champaign Co., and was born Jan. 1 1836.
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WILLIAM B. GEST, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Mingo: born in Greene Co., Ohio, Oct. 28, 1825 ; is a son of Jeremiah and Pamelia Gest, natives of New Jer sey, who were early settlers of Ohio, locating in Greene Co. about 1815. He spent his life here, and was engaged in the mercantile trade for many years, and also in the milling business. In the latter part of his life he retired to his farm near Bellbrook, where he died in March, 1879. His wife is still living at Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Gest was a very prominent and active business man; carried on an extensive trade, and, although in the panic of 1837, he felt the pressure and suffered some from its effects, yet his tact and energy carried him safely through, and he was very successful through life and accumulated a large amount of property. They were parents of seven children, four of whom now survive Sarah Ann, Mary Jane, William B. and Truman B. Joseph G., a deceased son, was a thoroughly educated man; a lawyer by profession, and became a very prominent-man in Greene Co., representing that county in the State Legislature for four years. He was one of the originators and organizers of the State Board of Agriculture, and was its Secretary for many years. Our subject became a resident of Champaign Co. in the fall of 1848, locating upon a piece of land adjoining his present farm on the south, residing there nineteen years. Then bought the farm upon which he now resides, built a fine farm residence, and has a beautiful place, with good improvements. The two farms embrace 200 acres of land. He was married, Nov. 9, 1848, to Miss Matilda, daughter of Abner and Matilda Park, natives of New Jersey. They have had five children; four now survive-Sarah Augusta, Laura Florence, Truman B. and Isabel. Mr. Gest has never held or sought office, preferring a business life; he has, in former years, dealt extensively in grain, but is now giving his main attention to farming and raising and dealing in stock.
JOHN GORDON, capitalist, Urbana ; born in Ireland Nov. 1, 1798; is a son of John and Jane (Hall) Gordon, natives of County Tyrone, Ireland. They were parents of seven children, two of whom survive-John and Lillie, now Mrs. John Campbell, of County Tyrone, Ireland. Mr. Gordon emigrated to America in 1819, then 21 years of age, and located in Chester Co., Penn., where he was married, March 16, 1826, to Sarah, daughter of Nathaniel McCaughey. Mr. Gordon was a cotton manufacturer by trade, and followed that business in Chester Co. several years; then entered upon the mercantile trade at Churchtown, Lancaster Co., which he followed twenty-three years; he lived in Chester Co. for three years, then sold out and located in Champaign Co., Ohio. on the farm where he has since resided. When Mr. Gordon came to America he was a poor man. By diligent work at his trade, he acquired means enough to com mence in his mercantile career. In this business he accumulated money rapidly, being a shrewd buyer, and, by watching his opportunities, he was able to buy goods low and sell at a great profit. During the many years be was in trade, he amassed quite a fortune. At this time there came into circulation " shin-plaster " money of uncertain value, and Mr. Gordon very wisely concluded to sell out and quit business, which he did; and, in 1847, came West and bought the farm where he now lives. He has 240 acres of land, 200 acres of which are in cultivation, with good improvements, being one of the best farms in Salem Township, and a beautiful home and residence. His wife died June 2, 1854.On Nov. 13, 1855, he married Mrs. Margaret Jane Withrow, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Park) McClellan. We have here the history of one whose life has been one of very remarkable success and prosperity, and is a striking example of what can be accomplished by industry and a thorough devotion to business, with shrewd, good management.
PHILIP W. GUNCKEL, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, May 20, 1828; is a son of Philip and Mary E. (Locke) Gunckel. he a native of Pennsylvania and she of Maryland, the ancestry being originally from Germany. Philip was born in Lebanon Co.; Penn., and emigrated to Ohio with his father, the late Judge Philip Gunckel, in 1804, locating in Germantown, Montgomery Co., then a small settlement. Judge Gunckel built a mill on Twin Creek, and established a store in the
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village, the mercantile trade being carried on under the firm name of Philip Gunckel & Son. Philip remained in the store as clerk for several years. In 1812, he entered the United States service, enlisting in the company of his brother, Capt. Michael Gunckel ; he was chosen Orderly Sergeant, and the company was ordered to Ft. Greenville, and, although not brought into active service against the Indians, yet they saw some rough service on the frontier. After his term of service expired, he resumed his place in the store, where he continued till he started in business for himself. He was married in 1819; issue, thirteen children, nine now survive-William F., Mary Ann, Catharine, Philip W., Elizabeth, Jane, Ella, Charles and Louisa. The mother died March 25, 1876, in the 75th year of her age; the father died some four or five years previous. He was noted for his genial nature and his hospitality. In early days, his house was a welcome home for Methodist preachers, he and wife being members of that denomination. Our subject, at 17 years of age, left home to learn the cabinet-making business, which he followed about five years; then followed the photograph ing business three years. Was married, Oct. 6, 1853, to Mary Ann, daughter of Dr. Caleb H. and Mary Ann Jones, he a native of Pennsylvania and she of Kentucky; issue, eight children, of whom five now survive Frank C., Harry W., Addie M., Ida Jane and Pearl L. Mr. Gunckel, after his marriage, followed the mercantile trade in Middleton, Butler Co., Ohio, for six years, doing a very prosperous business; but, on account of failing health, he sold out, and bought and located upon the place where he now resides, where he has engaged in the more healthy business of farming pursuits. He has 90 acres of fine land, in good cultivation, with excellent buildings and improvements, and is beautifully located on an elevation, where he has a fine view of the sur rounding country. His farm is located two and one-half miles northeast of Urbana. Mr. Gunckel is a champion of free trade and sailors' rights, and, politically, has been claimed by both parties. But, however he may vote from time to time, he claims the privilege to talk and write upon every political question independently, and is often found giving some of the principles of each party the " go by," aiming to brush away the cobwebs of fiction wherever he finds them. Mr. Gunckel, though in early life engaged in mercantile trade, has been a practical farmer for twenty years, and, while practical, he is also theoretical, having studied and become conversant with it as a science, for to rightly understand farming requires scientific knowledge. Mr. Gunckel, possessing largely of this knowledge, has tried to impart it to the agricultural community through the avenues of the various agricultural socities and through his contributions to agricultural and county papers, he having been a regular and extensive contributor to such papers for many years.He was a member of the Champaign County Agricultural Society two years, and was a delegate from this county to the S. W. Agricultural Society, held first at London, Madison Co., and next at Urbana. Mr. Gunckel is a very sociable gentleman; of pleasing address and manners, an agreeable neighbor and a good citizen.
WILLIAM HALLER, farmer; P. O. King's Creek; was born in Mason Co., Ky., Aug. 5, 1801 ; is a son of John and Mary (Allen) Haller-he a native of Pennsylvania and she of Virginia; they removed to Kentucky when quite young, and there became acquainted and married; they had six children, our subject being the only surviving child; the mother died in Kentucky Jan. 10, 1810. In October, 1812, the father, with his children, removed to Champaign Co., and, locating in Urbana; followed his trade-that of a blacksmith-till March, 1814, when he located upon a farm in Mad River Township. In the same year, he was married to Mrs. Mary Weaver, daughter of Archibald McKinley, a native of Kentucky, by whom he had seven children, five supposed to be living-Julian, Mary, Lucinda, Milton and Raper. Mr. Haller carried on blacksmithing in connection with farming during his life; he died in the summer of 1836, aged 64 years. Our subject was brought up to the same trade as his father, and was married, March 31, 1825, to Miss Sarah, daughter of Ezekiel and Elizabeth (Kenton) Arrowsmith, he a native of Maryland, and she of Virginia, and a niece of Simon Kenton, of pioneer fame; by this union they had three children, two now living-John
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and Benjamin; Mrs. Haller died Aug. 3, 1835. Mr. Haller married, for his second wife, June 15, 1836, Jane Arrowsmith, a sister of his first wife; they had two children -Sarah Ann and Lavinia ; his second wife died Aug. 24, 1851. His third wife, Myrtilla W., daughter oŁ Aquilla and Susanna Bishop, he married Jan. 18, 1855; they had one child-William A. Mr. Haller resided in Mad River Township till 1851, then bought 200 acres of land in Urbana Township and lived there eleven years, and finally removed to Salem Township, his present locality. Mr. Haller's life has been one of labor, industry and usefulness, and has been crowned with success; he acquired a good competency; has given his children a good start in life, and has an ample sufficiency left for himself. He has been a free supporter of schools and churches, and an active Christian man, having been, for some sixty years, a local preacher in the M. E. Church; he was converted at the age of 9 years, before leaving Kentucky, and, after his emigration to Ohio, at the age of 13 years, he joined the M. E. Church, under the labors of Rev. Robert W. Finley; at 19 years of age, he was licensed as an exhorter, and, three years later, as a minister. He is now 79 years of age, enjoying good health, and without an ache or pain in his body; his remarkable health he claims to be due to his careful and temperate habits, having never allowed himself to get wet by exposure to rain ; has never used intoxicating liquors or tobacco in any form, and never uttered an oath in his life. His record is one of remarkably exemplary habits, and is a worthy example to all future generations, and we feel that its record here will be of value long after he has passed from works to rewards.
ABRAHAM HERR, farmer; P. O. Urbana; was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., Sept. 21, 1830; is a son of Abraham and Fanny (Rush) Herr, natives of Pennsylvania; they removed to Ohio in April, 1840, locating in Clark Co., and, in the fall of the same year, he bought and located upon the farm adjoining the one where our subject resides; here they lived and died; he died in February, 1863; his wife died in September, 1877 ; they had seven children grow up to maturity-Jacob, Abraham, Fanny, David, Elizabeth, Barbara and Benjamin; the latter is now deceased, dying with typhoid fever in the army, on Black River, Mississippi. Mr. Herr was a plain, quiet farmer, never holding or seeking office, but diligent and industrious, attending strictly to his own affairs, a good neighbor, and honored and respected by all who knew him. Our subject, brought up at home to farm labor, was married, March 18, 1852, to Nancy Maria, daughter of Harvey Bates: they had seven children, four now living-Nancy Jane, Charles E., Alma B. and Emma G. Mr. Herr located about four miles north of his present location, on a farm of his father's; he lived there four years, and then on another rented farm, near Lippincott's Station, where he stayed four years; he then bought and located upon his present excellent farm, owning, in all, 315 acres of land, the home place embracing 156 acres, with good buildings and improvements-constituting a beautiful home and farmer's residence. Mr. Herr has held the office of Township Trustee more than twenty years; is a popular man in his township, and, like his father before him, is highly respected. He and his wife are members of the Baptist Church, having been such since 1853.
MARK HIGBEE, farmer; P. O. Urbana; born in New Jersey Sept. 28, 1828; is a son of William and Hannah (Horn) Higbee, also natives of New Jersey. They became residents of this county about 1848, where he lived till his death. He died Aug. 8, 1877, aged 82 years. His wife is still living on the home place, aged 78 years. They were parents of twelve children. Nine now survive-John, Sarah Ann, Samuel, Mark, James, David, Hannahrett, Mary Elizabeth and Charles Henry. Our subject remained with his father till his marriage, March 7, 1852, to Miss Mary Ann, daughter of David and Nora (Dwyer) Coleman, natives of Western Europe. By this marriage, they have had seven children. Five now survive--Nora, John W., Edmund E., Welford V. and David Franklin. After their marriage, they located upon the farm where they now live and have since resided. They own 191 acres of land in good cultivation, with fine buildings and improvements, constituting a beautiful home and residence. He and his
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wife are members of the M. E. Church, he having been a member for fifteen years and she for twenty-four years.
JACOB HOOLEY, farmer; P. O. Kennard ; born in Pennsylvania May 30, 1817; is a son of David and Catharine (Kaufman) Hooley, natives of Pennsylvania. The grandparents were also of Pennsylvania, but their ancestry were from Germany. David and wife resided in Pennsylvania till their death. They were farmers by occupation, and had seven children. Five now survive-Jacob, Mattie, John, Mary and David K. They were members of the Omish Mennonite Church during life. He died in 1828, aged 37. She died in 1876, aged 86 years. Oar subject was only 11 years of age when his father died, and the care of the family devolved upon the mother, who kept the home place and raised her children. Jacob, the eldest son, at 15 years of age, took the principal management of the farm, and so continued till 23 years of age. On Feb. 20, 1840, he was married to Martha, daughter of David and Fanny Kaufman, natives of Pennsylvania. They had ten children, six of whom are now living-Levi, David K., Christopher, Samuel, Francis and Jonas. After their marriage, Mr. Hooley remained on the home place with his mother five years. In the spring of 1845, they emigrated to Ohio, locating in Salem Township, Champaign Co. They purchased a farm of 60 acres, which was a part of the Nathaniel Hunter tract of land. This he held three years. Sold it, and bought the Samples farm. This consisted of 147 acres, and, by his own labor and industry, he has, from time to time, added more land by purchase, until he owned 671 acres of land, mostly in good cultivation, with excellent improvements. He has been a very industrious man, and, by economy and good management, has prospered and accumulated a competency. Has given his children a good start in life. He has a fine home and residence, and is very comfortably fixed to spend the re mainder of his days in peace and plenty. They are also members of the Omish Mennonite Church.
NATHANIEL C. HUNTER, farmer; P. O. West Liberty, Logan Co.; born on the farm, " Forest Home," where he now resides, Nov. 1, 1825;, is the son of John and Jane P. (Humphrey) Hunter. He is a native of Virginia, and she of Pennsylvania. The grandfather, Nathaniel, was a native of England or the north part of Ireland. The grandmother, Hester Ann (Porter), a native of North Ireland; emigrated to America near the close of the eighteenth century, settling in the State of Virginia. In 1811, they came to Ohio, bringing four sons and four daughters, and located in Madison Co., where they remained till 1814, when they removed to Champaign Co., having previously, or about 1812, bought a large tract of land embracing the same land upon which the grandson, Nathaniel, our subject, now lives. Here they located and spent the remainder of their life; being among the early pioneers and enduring the many hardships to which they were subject. John, the father of our subject, spent his whole life in thisvicinity, and was identified with much of the early history of this settlement, helping build and organise the churches and schools of that early day. He was married in 1822; they had six children, three now survive-Nathaniel C., Washington C. and William H. The latter, during the war, raised a company of men and entered the 12th O. V. C. ; was promoted to Major and served through the war. Soon after he went South and entered upon the work of raising cotton; he was very unsuccessful, losing all his property. He was elected Sheriff of the county, then Clerk of Court and Representative to the Legislature, and is now United States Commissioner at Montgomery, Ala: Washington C. is now in Michigan, an extensive fruit-grower. Mr. John Hunter was a man who gave but limited attention to political matters; was, however, a prominent man among the people, and held many offices of the township with fidelity and trust. He was a great and active worker in the M. E. Church, filling most of the important positions in the church up to the time of his death. He died Feb. 28, 1878; his wife died July 15, 1877. Oar subject was married May 17, 1849, to Miss Helen M., daughter of Graham and Hannah (Cochran) Purdy, natives of Vermont. They had three children- John G., Albert L. and William P. Mr. Hunter first located upon the farm where
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be now lives, remaining here about three years; then went to West Liberty, Logan Co., and entered upon the mercantile business, in which be continued about six years, doing a very successful trade. During this time he was a partner in building the first steam saw-mill and the first foundry ever in West Liberty; then he returned to his farm, "Forest Home," where he has since resided. He has a beautiful home, well improved, and is a successful farmer; has several other pieces of land, owning in all 385 acres of land. His wife died April 30, 1880, after a loved companionship of nearly thirty-one years. Mr. Hunter, though a very prominent man and farmer, never desired office, and, though sometimes forced to accept some township offices, yet generally avoids them as much as possible; but, like big father, he is a very active and prominent man in the M. E. Church, holding all the important positions therein, not for popularity, but from his love for and zeal in the Christian work. He is an earnest Sabbath-school worker, being a prominent pioneer organizer of Sabbath-schools throughout this section. He has also been an active supporter of free schools, and a great worker in promoting edu cation. We can safely say that when Mr. Hunter's course of life is run, the community and the church will lose an ardent friend, an honored and faithful worker.
CHRISTIAN KAUFMAN, farmer; P.O. West Liberty, Logan Co.; born in Pennsylvania Nov. 27,1821; son of David and Fanny (Yoder) Kaufman, natives of Pennsylvania; the grandparents were also natives of Pennsylvania. David and wife became residents of Champaign Co. in the fall of 1845, locating upon the farm where Christian now lives, and where he has resided ever since, having made a residence of thirty-five years. His wife died June 7, 1861. They had seven children, six now survive Joseph, Martha, Christian, David, Jonathan and Solomon. Mr. Kaufman, when quite young, became identified with the Omish Mennonite Church, to whose faith and doctrines he has closely adhered all his life, being a substantial member of that denomination, and one of the organizers of their church in Salem Township. He is now 88 years of age, and is yet quite spry and active, enjoying good health. Our subject lived with his father till 22 years of age. He was married Jan. 7, 1844, to Mary, daughter of David and Catharine (King) Hooley, natives of Pennsylvania. They had twelve children, ten now survive-Catharine, Fannie, John, Melinda, David, Emma, Lizzie, Levi, Christian and Selina. In March, 1844, after their marriage, they emigrated to Ohio in a two-horse wagon, and located at West Liberty, Logan Co., after a tedious journey of seventeen days. They resided there two years, then bought a farm six miles northwest of West Liberty, where they lived till Feb. 15, 1859, when they located upon the farm where they now live and have since resided. In the home place, he has 76 acres of fine land in good cultivation with excellent improvements. He also owns 20 acres of timber two miles south, and a fine improved farm of 90 acres in Logan Co. Mr. Kaufman and family are members of the same church to which his father belongs, and is, like his father, firm in their faith and doctrines.
JAMES KENTON, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; born in Champaign Co. Sept. 13, 1818 ; he is a son of William and Sarah (Covington) Kenton. He is a native of Maryland, and she probably of Kentucky, the paternal ancestry; as far as known, being natives of Maryland. William was left without a father when very young. His mother married again, and they became residents of Ohio, settling in Clark Co. among the early pioneers. He was a distant connection of Simon Kenton, of early pioneer fame, and what little education he obtained was through Simon's help. He spent his life in Clark, Champaign and Logan Cos., the greater portion in the latter county; there he died near West Liberty in 1840 ; his wife died several year previous; about 1824. They had four children, two now survive-James and Edward. Our subject left his home when only 10 years of age and commenced to seek his own way through life; he worked by the month here and there, as he could find opportunity; was for a time at a hotel, attending the stable; then in a grocery and saloon, where he remained till 15 years of age. He went into a dry goods store as clerk and remained till about 27 years of age ; big father receiving all his earnings, except enough to clothe him, till 18 years of age, when he
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bought of his father the balance of his time till his majority, paying his father $80 for the same. Up to this date, he had received very little education ; after this date, he obtained three months' schooling, and then devoted himself to business. At 27 years of age, he entered upon the mercantile trade on his own account in Zanesfield, Logan Co., where he continued till 1858, then located in Urbana and opened trade in partnership with Oliver T. Cundiff, and thus continued till after the close of the war, when the firm was changed to Kenton & Rock. In about two years, Mr. Kenton sold out and came to his present location on the farm where he has resided most of the time since. During this career of business, Mr. Kenton, with no capital to commence with, has worked his own way, and by industry, economy and good management, accumulated a com petency, and is now well situated to enjoy the balance of his life comfortably. He was married Sept. 25, 1844, to Bridget Jane, daughter of John and Jane (Vance) Taylor. They had five children, two now survive-Joseph T. and Oliver C. Mr. Kenton was Commissioner in Logan Co.; and Postmaster in Zanesfield for several years; has been Township Trustee of this township one term. He is an example of industry and success, worthy of imitation by all young men. He has never since his marriage passed one day in idleness, but always finds something to do, something to give his attention to, which shall tell for the promotion of some worthy work or object of life. And thus has he won the confidence and respect of all who know him, and made his success in life.
EDWARD F. LEMEN, farmer; P. O. Urbana; born in this county Nov. 20, 1840; is a son of Thornton and Sarah (Hendricks) Lemen. He is a native of Virginia, and she of Kentucky. The paternal ancestry came from Ireland, and the maternal ancestry from Scotland. Thornton Lemen came to this county with his parents when about 6 years of age; was raised and brought up, lived and died, here in this county, being among the early settlers, locating probably about 1812. They had eight children, six now survive-John, Joseph, Caroline, Edward F., Orlando and Cyrus B. Oar subject was with his father till 20 years of age; this brought him to the war period of our country, and he enlisted in the 66th 0. V. I. ; served about sixteen months, and was discharged and returned home, being disabled for military duty, by a wound from an accidental shot. He was married Dec. 31, 1868, to Miss Mary Frances, daughter of Joseph K. and Maria Funk. By this union they have had two children-Berths May (deceased) and Charles Orlando. Mr. Lemen first located in Harrison Township, where he resided till the spring of 1879, when he came to his present location. He has 21 acres of excellent land, with good buildings and improvements. He was Trustee of Harrison Township four years. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and his wife of the Methodist. Politically, he is a Republican.
WILLIAM C. LONG, farmer; P. O. Urbana; born Jan. 17, 1834, on the farm where he now resides; is a son of James and Susannah (Cheney) Long, he a native of Pennsylvania and she of Virginia, the grandfather also being a native of Pennsylvania, but removing to Kentucky when his son James was about 1 year old, where they lived about nine years. They went to Champaign Co. about 1805, locating on the northeast quarter of Sec. 2, now owned by John Garard, constituting him one of the early pioneers of this county. He resided on this farm a few years, then located upon the farm where our subject now lives. He was married Feb. 23, 1826, and had seven children; five now survive Martha, Jonathan, William C., Temperance and Eliza. Mr. Long was first married to Martha Turner, by whom he had two children-Sarah and Mary (twins), Mary deceased. His first wife died about 1820. Mr. Long did a large amount of pioneer work in clearing up the farm, erecting buildings and making a home right from the wilderness. He never held or sought office to any extent, but was an energetic, hard-working pioneer farmer. He remained on this farm till his death, which occurred Sept. 17, 1862. His wife is still living with our subject upon the home place, and is now 77 years of age. She and her husband were active Methodists. Our subject has always resided upon the old home place. They have 500 acres of excellent land, of which 225 acres are in cultivation, with good buildings and improvements.
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Mr. Long is Township Trustee, which office he has held for six years. Politically, he is a stanch Republican.
JOHN MAST, retired farmer; P. O. Urbana; born in Pennsylvania Oct. 29, 1793; is a son of Jacob and Barbara (Kenaga) Mast, natives of Pennsylvania. The paternal grandfather was a native of Switzerland, coming to America when about 10 years of age. He lived and died in Pennsylvania. Jacob and Barbara also lived and died in Pennsylvania, and were parents of seven children; three now survive-John, Isaac and Leah. Our subject, living with his father till his majority, was raised to farm labors, and married, Dec. 4, 1823, to Elizabeth, daughter of Eli and Mary Trego, natives of Pennsylvania. They had nine children; seven now survive-Phineas P., Miriam, Ann, Elizabeth, Joseph K., John Emery and Ephraim M. After their marriage, they resided in Pennsylvania about seven years, then went to Ohio, locating on the farm where he has since resided, having now made a residence here of half a century. When Mr. Mast came to this county, he had but little capital, but bought a quarter-section of land at $10 per acre, and went in debt to quite an extent for his land, farm implements and stock to begin farming. This was in the days when wheat, by hauling it over the mud roads to Dayton, would bring 33 cents per bushel. It took hard labor and close economy to get along, but he faithfully labored, and brought his land into good cultivation. The country improved, grain and produce brought better prices, and Mr. Mast prospered. He purchased more land, and his wealth increased till he became owner of 320 acres of land as good as can be found. His children grew to maturity, and he has apportioned to them the most of his land, reserving 65 acres for himself. He erected a fine, comfortable house, and is now residing there, retired from active labor to spend the balance of his life in quiet and rest. His children are all settled in life and doing well. The eldest son, P. P. Mast, of the firm of P. P. Mast & Co., of Springfield, Ohio, has built up an extensive business in the manufacture of agricultural implements, being known all over the country, and their machines and implements sold in nearly every State in the Union and many parts of Europe. This family is one of the early settlers of this county, and one whose life and labors stand prominent in the history and improvements of the county. Mr. Mast has been a popular man and a good neighbor; a kind of peacemaker, having been the means of compromising many difficulties between neighbors, and has always taken an active interest in churches and schools. He was School Director for forty-three years, a Class-leader in the M. E. Church fifty-four years, and Steward and Trustee for forty-eight years. His life has been one of labor and usefulness, and, when his labors are ended, the church and people will lose a faithful man.
JOSEPH K. MAST, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; was born in this township and county March 30, 1834. Is a son of John and Elizabeth Mast. Mr. Mast has always remained upon the home place. He was married, Nov. 13, 1856, to Miss Catharine, daughter of John and Mary Eichholtz, natives of Pennsylvania, and early settlers of this county. Mr. Eichholtz is a prominent and extensive farmer. Mr. Mast and wife are parents of ten children ; eight now survive-Cbarles H., Joseph Frank, Emma, Altha, Lizzie, Cicero, Clara and Ivy. Mr. Mast owns a fine farm of ninety-six acres, in good cultivation, upon which he has erected a fine house, costing $6,500. It is elegantly finished, and contains steam apparatus for heating the whole house. The surroundings are all well improved, constituting a very beautiful home and residence. Mr. Mast is not a holder or seeker of office, but devotes himself exclusively to his farm business. He and wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for twenty-six years; politically, he has been a Democrat.
J. EMERY MAST, farmer ; P. O. King's Creek; was born in this township and county. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Trego) Mast, natives of Pennsylvania. Our subject remained with his father until his majority, when he was married, April 13, 1869, to Minerva J., daughter of Arnold and Sophia Stonebraker, natives of Maryland, settling in Ohio in 1832, and in Champaign Co. in 1840.
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They were parents of three children-William T., Charles R. and Minerva Jane.. Mr. and Mrs. Mast have had seven children; five now survive-Ellis Heber, Maria May, Lulu Grace, John Arnold and Clarence ; the deceased were Willie E. and an infant without name. Mr. Mast, after his marriage, located upon his present farm, having bought seventy-eight acres from his father. He erected good buildings, and has excellent improvements and a very pleasant home, situated half a mile from the vil lage of Kingston. Mr. Mast, although comparatively a young man, has a very fine situation and a good start in life. He has never held or sought office, preferring to quietly attend to his own business affairs and family, which be considers of more importance than office-seeking. Politically, he is a Democrat; religiously, a Methodist. SIMON E. MORGAN, farmer, one and a half miles east of Kingston; P. 0. King's Creek. The earlier family records having been lost or passed into the bands of other branches of the Morgan family, the first tangible record we have is that of Edward Morgan, who was born Dec. 16, 1736, in Wales. His mother's name was Lloyd. He emigrated to America (date unknown), and settled in Berkeley Co., Va.. In 1762, he married Susannah Taylor. The date of his death is unknown, but he was probably living at the time of the Revolutionary war, as his youngest child was born in August, 1775. He was a member of the Society of Friends, whose principles would forbid his taking an active part in that contest, and many of his descendants still adhere to those principles, opposed to war and slavery. Though living in the midst of slavery, neither he nor anv of his family ever held property rights in a human being. He was the father of Elizabeth, Joseph, Mary, Mordecai, Rachel and Alsie. Of these, John was born Dec. 15, 1764. In 1780, when about 16 years of age, he left his home and settled in Ohio Co., near Wheeling, Va., where he passed through all the dangers and hardships of pioneer life.In 1789, he married Sarah Ewing, who was born May 9, 1769. He served for a time as Captain of a company of militia, but saw little service. He served eight consecutive years in the Virginia State Legislature, and was elected for the ninth. His seat was contested, and late in the session decided in his favor. The journey having to be made on horseback from Wheeling to Richmond in midwinter, he remained at home. By his marriage, they had ten children-Ruth, John M., Edward Lloyd, Maskell E., George V., Rachel, Susannah, Sarah A., Elizabeth G. and Lelina J. In 1813, by the representations of John Taylor, who had, some years previously, settled on King's Creek, in Salem Township, he determined to emigrate to Ohio, and in the fall of that year his son, Edward L., was sent out to examine the country, with instructions, if he thought proper, to locate a farm as the future home of the family. He was well pleased with the country, but found most of the best lands already entered. He finally selected fractional Sec. 3, Township 5, Range 12, and started for Cincinnati to make entry. On the way, he fell in with two travelers also bound for Cincinnati, and, in conversation, he ascertained one of them intended to enter the same tract. At night, they put up at the same inn, and, while his comrades were asleep, he quietly mounted his horse and pushed on night and day till he reached Cincinnati, and secured the papers entitling him to the land, and, as he stepped out of the office, met the two men, who, having become apprised of his departure at the inn, gave chase, arriving as above stated. Edward returned to Virginia and spent the winter. In the spring of 1814, he and his brother, M. E., came out to Ohio and raised a crop of corn in preparation for the coming of the family. These trips were made on horseback, fording every stream between the Ohio and King's Creek. About the 10th of September, John Morgan and family started for their new home in Ohio. A single wagon conveyed the family and effects, and one spare horse, upon which the women rode alternately. They were much delayed by high waters, and ran many risks in fording swollen streams. They arrived here Oct. 1, 1814, and settled temporarily a half-mile east of Kingston, in a house on the banks of King's Creek, near the present railroad bridge. Resided here two years, thence to their house previously erected upon their own land. This house stood on the bill south of the south branch of the creek, and about half a mile east of the residence of M. Stewart. This house was destroyed by
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fire many years since. About seven years later, he built a house at the south side of the section, and moved into it, where he resided till his death, July 16, 1833. During his residence in this township, he served in various township offices. Was Justice of the Peace for many years. In this capacity, he used his great influence to discourage and prevent litigation, and many differences among neighbors, threatening long and vexatious lawsuits and bitterness of feeling, were, by his advice and efforts, amicably adjusted. His son, Edward Lloyd Morgan, was born Feb. 10, 1794, and came to Ohio, as above related. He married Susan Earsom, whose father had, in 1824, removed from Hampshire Co., Va., and settled on the northeast edge of Dugan Prairie, near the stone quarry. Soon after, Mr. Morgan moved to a log house which occupied the present site of the house erected by his son Simon E. in 1874, and here be resided during the remainder of his long and useful life. He died Feb. 23, 1875, aged 81 years, his wife having died Oct. 9, 1850. Without attempting an extended eulogy on his character, it may be proper to say that, among all the early settlers in this township, no one took a more active interest in the affairs of the township and county or excelled him in unselfish efforts to promote the best interests of his community, and perhaps no one held the confidence, respect and esteem of his fellow-pioneers to so great an extent as he. He was mainly a self-educated man. After coming to Ohio, he engaged in teaching school, his first being taught in a schoolhouse just west of the warehouse east of Kingston. This was about 1815 or 1816. He also did a great deal of surveying, with which science he was familiar, serving as County Surveyor for twelve years. In 1824, he was elected Representative to the Legislature, and again in 1832 and 1837. Served several years as Township Clerk, his first term being in 1817 ; also as Treasurer, and, later in life, many years as Justice, in which office he adopted the policy of his father, endeavoring to secure a peaceable and equitable adjustment of cases brought before him. It is said that his acceptance of the office was mainly that he might discourage litigation. His motto was " on earth peace, good will to men." He became a member of Harmony Lodge, No. 8, A., F. & A. M., early in its existence, and served as Master, and was always proud of his connection with that society. At the organization of King's Creek Lodge, No. 389, in 1866, he became its first Worshipful Master, continuing as such, by the united consent of his brethren, until, on account of age and infirmity, he asked to be relieved of its labors. Was also a member of Urbana Chapter, No. 34, R. A. M., but, being advanced in years, took no active part in its work. His life was an exemplification of the great principles he taught as a Mason-temperance, prudence, justice, etc., faith, hope and charity, the greatest of which is charity-all in the broad sense and meaning which Masonry attaches to them. Of a family of eight children (five sons and three daughters), only two survived him-Maskell E. and Simon E. The latter, the third child, was born Jan. 29, 1832. Though the primeval pioneer days were past before his birth, yet he has a distinct recollection of many hardships and deprivations of even those later days. He assisted in clearing and breaking up the greater part of the farm where he now lives. On Sept. 17, 1863, he married Martha A. Cowgill, born April 2, 1837, daughter of Henry and Anna (Marmon) Cowgill. Two years later, they located at their present place of residence. From the fall of 1852 to the fall of 1865, he was engaged principally in teaching in the common and graded schools of the county. He has always taken a leading interest in the educational affairs of his township. Was for many years a member of the Township Board of Education, and served several years as Township Clerk. In the spring of 1868, he was appointed Township Treasurer on the retirement of Henry Cowgill, who had held the office for more than thirty years, which office he still holds, having been elected each successive year. He has never sought nor asked for any office, believing that no office can confer honor on the possessor if obtained by self-seeking or otherwise than as a free gift of his constituents. Politically, Mr. Morgan has always been a Republican since the organization of that party. Is alive to the agricultural interests of the country, and zealous in the advocacy of all measures to promote the interests and welfare of the farming community. Has represented his township on the Board of Managers of the County Agricultural Society
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several years. Took a leading part in the organization of the Ohio Swine Breeders' Association, and has been for many years a contributor to one or the other of the leading agricultural journals of the country. He, as his father was, is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and proud of his connection with it. Received the Blue Lodge degrees in Harmony Lodge, No. 8, in 1857, and the Chapter Degrees in Urbana Chapter, No. 34, the same year, and, later, the degrees of Royal and Select Master in the Council at Springfield. Has served one or the other of the Masonic bodies in official capacity continuously, except one year, since the fall of 1857. In the fall of 1865, was elected High Priest of Urbana Chapter, and served two terms. On Oct. 13,1866, was anointed the "Holy Order of High Priesthood" at Toledo, Ohio, by Grand H. P. George, Rex. Is now a member and Secretary of King's Creek Lodge, No. 389, which office he has held a greater part of the time since its organization, in 1866. Of his six children, but one is now living Arthur L., born Sept. 19, 1867.
EDWARD M. MORGAN, farmer; P. O. King's Creek; born on the farm where he now resides, June 19, 1839 ; is a son of George V. and Christenia (Earsom) Morgan, natives of Virginia. George V. became a resident of Champaign Co. about 1814, locating on the farm where Edward now lives, being a part of the section originally entered by the grandfather, as described in the sketch of Simon Morgan, in this work. Here he spent his life. He was married May 15,1831, and had four children, one only, our subject, now surviving. Mr. Morgan, being one of the early pioneers and a prominent man, took an active part in the organization and administration of the affairs of his township and county. He died Feb. 5, 1849 ; his wife died Feb. 5, 1863. Our subject was only 10 years of age at the time of his father's death, but remained with his mother on the home farm till he grew to maturity. He was married, Aug. 28, 1862, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Michael and Catharine Walters, natives of Virginia. They have had two children-Charles Forest; living, and Albert Hugh, deceased. Mr. Morgan has always resided upon the homestead place, where he has 120 acres of excellent land, with fine buildings and improvements, constituting a beautiful home and farmer's residence. This place has now been in possession of the Morgan family for sixty-six years. Mr. Morgan is P. M. of King's Creek Lodge of A., F. & A. M., and a member of Urbana Chapter, No. 39, R. A. M., and Rapier Commandery No. 19, K. T. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is now a candidate for County Commissioner, and is spoken of in the following commendable manner by the Champaign Democrat." There is no better man in Champaign County than E. M. Morgan. A man of good judgment, strict integrity, capable for any position where decision of character is required, he would make a first-class Commissioner. We know we speak the mind of every individual who knows him when we say that the affairs of the county would be carefully and judiciously looked after, in the election of Mr. Morgan as a member of the Board of Commissioners."
ABEL NORTH, farmer; P. O. Kennard; born in Champaign Co., July 26, 1832; is a son of Lyman and Lucy (Cowle) North, natives of Connecticut. The paternal grandfather, Abel, is supposed to have been from England; both he and the maternal grandfather were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. Lyman came West to Ohio and located at Cincinnati in 1815, and worked at his trade-that of a cabinet and furniture maker-one year. He returned to Connecticut, and, with his family, came back to Ohio and located in Greene Co. He entered the employ of Read & Watson, and superintended their manufactory one year. In 1817, he moved into Champaign Co., and bought and located upon the farm upon which our subject was born. He opened his farm right from the woods, lived in his log cabin four years, and then erected a brick house, which is still standing on the farm and in quite good condition. He lived, and died on this farm Dec. 21, 1860; his wife died Aug. 25, 1876. They had twelve children; eight now survive-Sallie W., John, Lucy Ann, William, Orrin, Abel, Mary Jane and Edward. Mr. North, in connection with opening out his farm and making a home, carried on his trade, manufacturing most of the furniture used in that day in
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the several counties near him, and made most of the coffins for the dead. The coffin which inclosed the remains of Simon Kenton, of pioneer fame, was made by Mr. North. He continued his trade some twenty years. As an early pioneer, he saw many hardships, but prospered well and became the owner of some 300 acres of land and was very comfortably situated at the time of his death. Our subject, who had remained with his father till maturity, was married, Aug. 24, 1854, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Abraham and Fanny Herr, by whom he has had ten children; seven now living-Mary Frances, Lucy Jane, Adelaide, Charles L., Cora Barbara, William Franklin and Birdie Muzett. After his marriage he rented the farm upon which he now lives, also some. adjoining land, and went to farming in earnest; he has continued farming all his life, and, in connection, has dealt extensively in stock. His life and labors have been crowned with success; he owns 340. acres of excellent land, constituting three different farms, and has erected good buildings on, his home place, with fine improvements, having a beautiful home and residence. He has never held or sought office, preferring to attend strictly to his own business. He is a man highly honored and respected by all who know him. He is a strong Baptist in faith, and has been an active member of the church for nearly thirty years.
A. B. PEARCE, M. D., physician, King's Creek; born in this county Oct. 8, 1836 ; is a son of Harvey and Beulah (Barrett) Pearce, natives of Champaign Co., he being the first white child born in Urbana; born in 1802. The paternal grandfather was a native of Virginia, the maternal grandfather of Kentucky. Harvey and wife were parents of eight children; five now survive-Henry C., Lucas E., Abner B., John W. and Richard S. Our subject remained with his father, occupied at farm labor till he arrived at maturity, receiving his principal education at the schools of Urbana. In the winter of 1856, he taught his first school; then in the summer attended school and prosecuted his studies. This course he continued for five or six years, teaching school winters, and prosecuting his studies through the summer, during which time he had decided to take as his profession, the practice of medicine, and consequently shaped his course of study accordingly, devoting considerable time to the reading of medicine while teaching. In the winters of 1861 and 1862, he attended a course of lectures at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery ; then took a course at the Starling Medical College, at Columbus, in the winters of 1862 and 1863, graduating in the spring of 1863; then located in practice with his brother, in Mutual, Union Township, till 1864, when he enlisted in the 100 days' service, filling the position of Assistant Surgeon in the 134th O. V. I. At the expiration of his term of service, he returned and located in Kingston, and there carried on the practice of medicine and surgery, where he has continued to the present time. The Doctor has built up a good practice, and has during his stay here enjoyed the confidence of the people, and received in return a good remuneration. As he is thoroughly qualified by a preparatory course of study and practice in the army, especially in the branch of surgery, there is no reason why he should not be successful and enjoy the confidence of the public. He was married Sept. 17, 1867, to Miss Ella, daughter of Jacob H. and Elizabeth Shepherd. They have had four children; three now survive-Carrie Effie, Minnie May and Mattie Leila.
JOHN F. RETTBERG, general merchant, King's Creek; born in the State of Brunswick, Germany, Feb. 25, 1833 ; is a son of J. Frederick and Angelina Rettberg, who lived and died in Germany. They were parents of five children, three now living -Ernest, Hannah and John F.; two deceased-Henry and William E. The latter came to America in 1859, and at the beginning of the rebellion in 1861, enlisted in the defense of our country in the 1st 0. V. Light Artillery, Battery M ; was in Rosecrans' army of the Cumberland, and was killed at the battle of Stone River, Tenn., Dec. 31, 1862, his life being thus early sacrificed for the country so recently adopted by him, and in which he had not yet become naturalized. He was certainly a strong example of self-sacrifice for patriotism and love of law and liberty. His remains now rest in the Oakdale Cemetery at Urbana; his brother, his only relative in this country, procured
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his remains and had them properly interred in this beautiful resting-place for the dead. Our subject emigrated to America in the summer of 1854, and located at Urbana, and engaged in gardening for Col. John H. James, with whom he remained most of the time for two years. Then was employed as salesman in F. Houston & Co.'s grocery, where he continued about eighteen months. He opened a store on his own account in Powhatan, Urbana Township, and carried on trade some sixteen months, but finally located in Kingston, at his present place of business, and has been in trade here now for more than twenty years. When Mr. Rettberg landed in Urbana, he was possessed of a 85 gold piece ; this was his capital. Now he has a large stock of goods, and a fine property, owning his store building, and a handsome dwelling house; also some city property in Olney, Ill. Mr. Rettberg has accumulated this property by his own industry and close attention to business ; has built up and established a good trade, and by the improving times and financial condition of our country, his business improves. He has always dealt honestly with the people, which has won their confidence and given him a popularity among his customers. In 1878, Mr. Rettberg was elected Township Clerk, which position he still holds. He was united in marriage, Feb. 17, 1859, to Miss Sarah W., daughter of William and Margaret Wharton, natives of Maryland. As the issue of this union, they have had five children, three now living-Mary B., Laura and Anna; deceased-Edward and Ralston.
JAMES SIMPSON, farmer; P. O. Urbana; born in Pennsylvania April 20, 1808; is a son of David and Mary (Anderson) Simpson, natives of Ireland. David came to America in 1792, resided in Pennsylvania till about 1800, and returned to Ireland. He was back and forth across the ocean some seven or eight times engaged in trade, shipping merchandise from one country to the other, by which he accumulated quite an amount of money. Some of his trips proved disastrous, and he lost money to some extent. He finally located in Cheater Co.. Penn., then in Lancaster Co., where he lived till his death, Dec. 8, 1850 ; his wife died Aug. 31, 1870. They were parents of five children; two now survive-James and John. Our subject, James Simpson, remained mostly with his father till May, 1846, when he became a resident of Champaign Co., and located upon the farm where he now lives. He was married in November, 1845, to Miss Esther, daughter of David and Nancy (Hunter) Robison, natives of Pennsylvania. They had eight children, five now living-Jane, Esther, Eliza, John and Samuel. Their ancestry were also natives of Ireland. Mr. Simpson has a fine farm of 60 acres, with good buildings and improvements, constituting a pleasant home and residence. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and have been such some forty-'seven years; the ancestors for three or four generations, all were adherents of the same faith and church.
JAMES C. SMITH, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Urbana; born in Franklin Co., Penn., Jan. 4, 1813; is a son of James and Sarah (Donavan) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania; the paternal grandfather was a native of Pennsylvania; the maternal grandfather of Ireland. The father and family became residents of Ohio, locating one mile west of Urbana, in 1813, he having previously, in 1811, been here and entered land. He now commenced to make a farm and a home, where he spent the remainder of his life; he died in 1842; his wife died in 1848. They had a family of seven children, all being born in Pennsylvania; four now survive-Matilda, Frances Jane, Joseph W. and James C. Mr. Smith was a man of more than ordinary ability, and one who had the confidence of the people. He was Township Trustee many years, and was elected Associate Judge soon after locating here, which position he held many years. Our subject remained upon the home place with his father till his death, after which he kept the home farm, where he resided till 1875, when he located upon his present place, where he has since resided. He was married in April, 1835, to Miss Jane Mary, daughter of John and Elizabeth Thompson. They had seven children; three now survive-Sarah Elizabeth, Emma Adessa and Merrill. His wife died in December, 1846. Sept. 19, 1849, he married Nancy K. Thompson, a sister of his first wife. Mr. Smith
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has 310 acres of good land, constituting a most beautiful stock farm, and he is giving especial attention to the buying and selling of stock. Mr. Smith, like his father, has the confidence of the public, but endeavors to avoid public office; has, however, been Township Trustee several years. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, he having been such for fifty years, and she for thirty years. He was Trustee of the church for forty years, and member of the Sessions thirty-eight years.
JACOB SNYDER, farmer; P. O. Urbana; was born in the State of New York Jan. 17, 1811; is a son of John and Elizabeth Snyder, natives of New York. The grandfather came from Germany when only a youth; the grandmother was a native of New York. John and Elizabeth resided in New York till their death; he died Feb. 14. 1848 ; she died in October, 1864; they were parents of four children-Mary, Jacob, Irenia and John. Mr. Snyder lived with his father till 30 years of age, and was married, Jan. 22, 1834, to Miss Catharine, a daughter of John and Hannah Cronkhite, natives of New York, the grandfather being a native of England., but came to this country when a child ; Mr. and Mrs. Cronkhite were parents of one child-Catharine. Mr. Snyder and wife have had twelve children ; six now survive-Orlando, John W., David N., Mary, De Witt C. and Edward C. After their marriage, they resided in Rensselaer Co., N. Y., till the fall of 1856, when they removed to Ohio and located in this township and county, and lived on a rented farm about one and a half years, then bought and located upon the farm where they now reside. They have 60 acres of good land, all in cultivation but 8 acres, and have good buildings and improvements. Two of their sons, John and David, went forth to battle for the defense of their country during the war of the rebellion, serving till honorably discharged. Mr. Snyder has never held or sought office, but has quietly and diligently followed his farm pursuits
MATTHEW STEWART, farmer; P. O. King's Creek; was born in this township and county Aug. 28. 1804; is a son of Matthew and Elizabeth Stewart-he a native of Ireland,, emigrating to America when about 12 years of age; she was a native of Pennsylvania. The father landed in America about 1771, and became a settler of Champaign Co. in 1802, locating on the Dugan Prairie; in the spring of 1805, be Iocated upon the farm where our subject now lives; here he resided till his death, May 5, 1850, his wife having died March 15, 1830. Mr. Stewart was one of the early pioneers of this county, settling here in the wilderness, among the Indians and wild beasts, witnessing and enduring all the dangers and hardships of a pioneer's life; they were parents of eleven children, ten growing up to maturity; three now survive-Eliza, Matthew and Eleanor. Our subject remained with his father till his death. He was married, March 21, 1830, to Miss Lucinda, daughter of John and Hannah Martin ; they had nine children; eight now survive-Sarah, Samuel, William, Elizabeth, Hannah, Thomas, Charles and Eliza. Mr. Stewart resides upon the old home place, where he was raised from an infant of 6 months old; here he has a fine farm of 173 acres, with good improvements; he also owns other real estate to the amount of 347 acres, making the entire estate 520 acres ; this has all been accumulated by his father and himself, from their own labor and industry. Mr. Stewart has ever been a leading and prominent man in this township; has been Township Trustee for many years, and a Justice of the Peace fifteen years. He lost his wife by death Nov. 5, 1879.
WILLIAM L. STOKES, farmer; P. O. Mingo; was born on the farm where he now resides Nov. 10, 1846; is a son of Samuel and Nancy (Thomas) Stokes-he a native of Virginia, born in 1806, and she a native of this county. Samuel emigrated from Virginia and located in this county about 1829; after his marriage, he lived about two years near Cabletown, then located upon the farm where William now resides; here he lived till his death, Nov. 21, 1879; his wife died about 1850; they were parents of seven children; three now survive-John, Mary and William. Mr. Stokes married, for his second wife, Jane Baker, who is still living, residing now in North Lewisburg, this county. Our subject was with his father till his death, and still remains upon the old home place, which has now been in possession of the Stokes family nearly half a
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century. Mr. Stokes was married, Jan. 1, 1869, to Miss Margaret, daughter of William and Elizabeth Petty, who were natives of this county; they had six children Fanny, Laura, Samuel, Mary, Sallie and Andrew Jackson. They have a fine farm of 85 acres, with good buildings and improvements, constituting a pleasant home and residence.
ARNOLD T. STONEBRAKER, miller; P. O. King's Creek; born in Maryland March 6, 1811, is a son of John and Mary (Kellinberger) Stonebraker; he was born in Maryland, and she in Pennsylvania, the grandfathers being natives of Germany. John and Mary were parents of six children, all deceased but our subject. The parents spent their lives in Virginia and Maryland; he was a miller by trade, which he followed many years; also carried on farming a number of years in connection with milling. His wife died in Virginia about 1826; he died in Maryland Dec. 6, 1854, nearly 76 years of age. Our subject lived with his father until 22 years of age, becoming thoroughly acquainted with his father's trade. He emigrated to Ohio, and located in Wayne Co., at Wooster, Dec. 8, 1832, and followed his trade two years; then went back to Maryland and lived two years; removed to Pickaway Co., Ohio, residing there till 1840, and finally went to Champaign Co., where he bars since resided. He followed milling till 1865, when, his health failing, he retired from business, and lived in Miami and Montgomery Cos. two years, then located in Kingston, this township, where he has since resided. Politically, be is a Democrat. Religiously, he is of the Catholic faith.
RICHARD C. TALBOTT, farmer; P. O. Urbana; born in Greene Co., Ohio, Sept. 30, 1818; is a son of Josiah G. and Ann (Forsythe) Talbott ; be a native of Kentucky, and she of Michigan, the paternal grandfather being from Maryland. Josiah and his brother Richard were officers in the regular army during the war of 1812, and soon after the war Josiah became a resident of Greene Co., Ohio, locating at Xenia, where he followed the bat manufacturing business some seven or eight years. Thence, went to Urbana in 1823, where be followed the same line of business till his death, about 1858; his wife died Aug. 3, 1875. They were parents of ten children; six now survive-Richard G., Elizabeth, Amanda, Sarah, Josiah and Mary. Our subject was with his father till 1845; he learned the same trade and business as his father, and, after his arrival at manhood, he became manager of the business, and so continued till the above date. He was married, May 21, 1845, to Miss Mary Jane, daughter of David and Mary Vance, he a native of Kentucky, and she of Pennsylvania. They had four children-tbree survive- Gertrude, James M. (deceased), Clara V. and Richard D. After his marriage, he continued his business in Urbana till January, 1850, when he removed to New York City and united himself with a. firm in the wholesale hat, cap and fur trade, where they did business for twenty-two years; the firm name was Jennings, Read & Co., then Read, Bro. & Co., and, lastly, T. B. Read & Co. They did a very large and extensive business, their shipments reaching nearly every State in the Union and Mexico. They accumulated quite a competency. In 1864, they went out of business, and Mr. Talbott bought and located upon a farm of 200 acres, situated two miles northeast of Urbana, where be now resides. The Talbott family have a record of great prominence among the business and official men of the county. Decatur, the oldest brother of our subject, was Recorder of the county for sixteen years; was also Treasurer one term.
THOMAS TAYLOR (deceased) ; born in Virginia March 16,1804; is a son of John and Catharine Taylor, natives of Virginia. They emigrated to Ohio and located in Union Township in 1804. In the spring of 1805, they removed to the place where his widow still resides, being among the early settlers of Salem Township. He bought the land from a Mr. Wood, who is supposed to have purchased it direct from the Government. Here they made their improvements, and lived and died. He died in 1825, his wife having died several years previous. They were parents of eleven children, all now deceased, except one, Blanchard, living in Iowa. Thomas Taylor, the subject of
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this sketch, was only an infant 6 weeks old when brought to this county, consequently, he was raised and brought up, lived and died upon the old homestead farm. He was married, May 16, 1825, to Lucy, daughter of Job and Deborah Chamberlin, natives of Connecticut: Lucy was born in New York State July 29, 1804, the parents emigrating; to New York State ; thence to Indiana; thence to Ohio, and were among the first settlers of Findlay, Ohio, the town not then being even laid out ; here they lived and died. Mr. Taylor and wife were the parents of nine children; eight now survive-Julian, Sarah J., Mary E., Rohanna C., Lucy E., Thomas Irvin, Daniel O., Sarepta L. and Job (deceased) ; all are married and settled in life, except Lucy, who is at home with her mother. Mr. Taylor gave his entire attention to farming and dealing in stock ; never held or sought office, but was devoted to the interests of his business and family. He died Sept. 10, 1868. Mrs. Taylor, now 76 years of age, resides upon the old home place, which is carried on by a son and grandson. They have a fine farm of 200 acres, in excellent cultivation, with good buildings and improvements. The place has now been in the family of the Taylors for three-quarters of a century. Mrs. Taylor has been a member of the Baptist Church for twenty years.
WILLIAM V. TAYLOR, farmer; P. 0. Urbana; was born in Harrison Township, Champaign Co., Aug. 12, 1839. Is a son of Joseph C. V. and Lucinda J. (Vanmeter) Taylor, natives of this county. The paternal and maternal grandparents were natives of Virginia. John, the grandfather, was one of the early pioneer settlers, and lived and died in this county. Joseph C. V. followed farming as an occupation, and spent his entire life in this county ; he died in June, 1867. His wife is still living in this township, aged 64 years. They had six children, and all are living-William V., Henry V., John, James R., Jennie B. and Jacob S. Our subject remained on the farm with his father till his majority. During the war of the rebellion, in 1862, he enlisted in the 66th O. V. I., and served about three years, being wounded and discharged for disability. We need only to remark that it is well known to all readers of history that this regiment and army corps did much hard fighting, passing through many severely contested battles, sacrificing many lives. Mr. Taylor was married, June 5, 1872, to Miss Jane M., daughter of James C. and Jane Mary Smith. They had two children-Merrill S. and Fred (deceased). His wife died April 23, 1879. After his marriage, Mr. Taylor located in Urbana, where he lived about four years, during which time he was serving as County Treasurer; he was also Sheriff of the county from 1864 to 1868. At the expiration of his term as Treasurer, he located upon his farm, where he has since resided. He has 170 acres of fine land in good cultivation and pasturage, with good buildings and improvements.
JOSEPHUS THOMAS, farmer ; P. O. Mingo; was born in this township Oct. 15, 1825. Is a son of John and Anna (Morris) Thomas. He was born in Maryland June 7, 1779, and she in Ohio Jan. 17, 1784. Josephus remained with his father until his majority, and was married Sept. 30, 1851, to Miss Jane J., daughter of William and Sarah Downs, natives of Pennsylvania, who were among the early settlers of this county, locating at Urbana about 1812. He was a Captain of the militia and drilled them for the war ; was drafted, but procured a substitute. They were parents of twelve children; seven now survive-Eliza, Rachel, Huldah, Margaret, William, Jane and John. Mr. Downs was a blacksmith by trade and a most excellent mechanic; he built the first foundry, the first manufactory of plows, and the first manufactory of wagons and carriages ever erected in Urbana. He had a partner whose name was Perry; they carried on an extensive and prosperous business in that early day. Mr. Downs, being celebrated as an ingenious mechanic, received work from far and near from various parts of the State. He died June 10, 1852, 72 years of age. His wife died July 9, 1870, aged 86 years. Mr. Thomas and wife are parents of five children, four now living-Sarah V., Eugenia, Laura G. and Fannie. Mr. Thomas has always followed farming as an occupation although a carpenter by trade, and planned and framed his own buildings on the place. He bough;. and located upon a part of the old farm of
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his father's, where he has always resided, to the present time. He owns seventy-nine acres of excellent land, with good buildings and improvements, constituting a fine home and residence.
IVAN B. THOMAS, farmer and grain-dealer; P. O. Kennard; was born on the farm where he now resides Jan. 30, 1832, and is a son of John and Mary Thomas; he a native of Maryland, and she of Pennsylvania. John emigrated to the Northwestern Territory, locating in what is now Ross Co., Ohio, about 1800, residing there till about 1809 ; then removed to this county upon the farm where Ivan now lives; there he lived, and died in 1851. His wife is still living on the old home place, now 81 years of age. They were parents of five children; two now survive-Ivan B. and F. Marion. Mr. John Thomas was first married to Anna Morris, of Southern Ohio, by whom he had thirteen children; four now survive Ezekiel, Volney, William and Josephus. When he located here, he bought 360 acres of land from the original purchaser, with only a log cabin upon it with very little improvements, witnessing and experiencing many dangers and hardships of pioneer life, the Indians being their neighbors and wild beasts thick and plentiful. He was largely engaged in the frontier troubles with the Indians during the war of 1812 ; was a Colonel of the militia, and a prominent, active man in all public affairs of that day, holding many of the offices of the township. He was Justice of the Peace for thirty-three years, being a very energetic and useful man, and foremost among the most prominent of the early pioneers of the county. Our subject was with his father till his death, and was married, in February, 1875, to Miss Lucretia Burnett. They had three children-Edwin B., Robert P. and Mary B. Mr. Thomas has always remained upon the old home place. He and brother are now owners of 610 acres of land, and are also largely engaged in buying and shipping grain and stock, ship ping last year 40,000 bushels of grain. Mr. Thomas, like his father, has been a prominent man in his community; was a commissioned officer in the militia; has been Township Trustee many years, and Justice of the Peace for nine years. The Thomas family have now lived upon this homestead place nearly three-quarters of a century.
JOHN K. THOMPSON, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; born in Pennsylvania Dec. 25, 1818; is a son of John and Elizabeth (King) Thompson, he a native of Pennsylvania, and she a native of Ireland. This family are descendants of the old stock of Thompsons, who, when Scotland, Ireland and England were all brought under one government, would not submit to the British rule, and, rather than yield to it, left the country and sought a refuge in America. John and family became residents of Champaign Co. in 1819; bought land here and followed farming in this county during the remainder of his life. They were parents of eight children; seven now survive-Clarissa, Nancy, James K., John K., Thomas K., Samuel A. and Sarah Elizabeth; the first, third, sixth and seventh all now reside in Illinois; the balance reside in Champaign Co. Mr. Thompson held the office of Justice of the Peace for many years, and was a man of decided principles and character, having the general confidence of the community. He died in 1872 or 1873 ; his wife died in May, 1866. Our subject remained with his father upon the home place till his death. He was married, Jan. 24, 1855, to Elizabeth Jane, daughter of John and Catharine King ; he a native of Ireland, and she of Maryland. Mr. Thompson has always remained upon the homestead place, and has followed farming and dealing in stock. He owns 133 acres of land, mostly in cultivation, with good improvements.
THOMAS K. THOMPSON, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of this county, born July 30, 1821 ; is a son of John and Elizabeth (King) Thompson; he a native of Pennsylvania, and she of Ireland, her parents emigrating to America when she was 12 years of age, the paternal ancestry being originally from Scotland. John became a resident of Ohio, locating in this county, in Salem Township, in 1819, where he lived till his death; he died in 1872 or 1873; she died May, 1866. They had eight children; seven now survive-Clarissa, Nancy K., James K., John K., Thomas K., Samuel A. and Sarah Elizabeth; the deceased was Jane Mary. Mr. Thompson was a very
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quiet and unassuming man, but had the entire confidence of the people. He was Township Clerk for many years, and Justice of the Peace for many years; he was always interested in all public improvements and the prosperity of schools and education. Our subject made his home with his father till his marriage, which event was celebrated in January, 1853. He married Miss Sarah Jane, daughter of Benjamin and Maria Johnson, natives of Virginia. They have had seven children; five now survive-Benjamin, John C., Edna, Sherman and Lorena. Mr. Thompson, after his marriage, located upon the place where he now resides, which his father took right in the woods in its wild state, when the deer were thick and plentiful; here he has lived to the present time, and now has a fine farm of 160 acres in good cultivation, with fine new buildings erected, constituting a pleasant home and residence; he also owns another farm of 111 acres, and 240 acres in Illinois. 'Mr. Thompson has always been a "home" man, as indicated by his life-long residence upon the same place. He has never sought office, but has been School Director and Land Appraiser; has always followed and given his undivided attention to his farm interests.