200 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ADDISON HAGAN. Addison Hagan is a well known resident of Mad River township, Clark county. His father, James Hagan, was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and at an early day came to Clark county, Ohio. He wedded Catherine Kimball, also a native of the Keystone state, and they became the parents of the following children : John. who married Caroline Benjamin, was a well known educator of Springfield for many years, but at the time of his death was an attorney of Cincinnati, Ohio. where he passed away July 9. 1873; Louisa is living on the home farm with our subject ; Julia is deceased; Margaret married James Robinson and died August 20, 1862, leaving one child ; Susan died March 18. 1892 ; Sally is the wife of Frank Fryant, who resides upon a farm near the old homestead ; and Kate and Addison. of this review, are yet living on the old home place. The father of this family was quite active in politics and was a leading and influential citizen of his community. He served as township clerk for many years and was also a candidate on the Democratic ticket for the legislature. For twenty-five years he was engaged in teaching school and his devotion to the general good was cordially acknowledged. He died February 4, 1874, and his wife departed this life April 2, 1856. Mr. Hagan, of this review, haS always resided upon the old home farm, where he was born on the 24th of July. 1847. In his Youth he attended the district schools of his neighborhood and also assisted in the task of improving and cultivating the fields. This work he has since continued and since his father's death he has assumed the management of the farm, which consists of eighty- four acres, and on which he is living with his sisters, Louisa and Kate. In connection with the raising of grain best adapted to the soil and climate he is also engaged in the raising of stock to some extent. Everything about the place is neat, thrifty and attractive in appearance. In his political views Mr. Hagan is a Democrat, having always supported this party, but has never been an office seeker, preferring to give his time and attention to his farm work. HEZEKIAH KERSHNER Hezekiah Kershner has been a resident of Clark county since 1828 and since 1848 has lived on the street where he yet makes his home, although when he took up his abode here his house was practically situated in the midst of a cornfield. The growth of the city, however, has included that place within its limits, and with the public progress and improvement Mr. Kershner has been identified. A native of Hagerstown, Maryland, he was born October 24, 1826, and is a son of Jacob Kershner. also a native of Maryland, who served in the war of 1812. By trade he was a blacksmith and in the year 1828 he brought his family to- Clark county. In 1806, however, he had visited this county and had purchased government land three miles south of the present site of Springfield. He became the owner of six hundred and forty acres, which was purchased at the usual government price, but when he removed to the county he sold one-half of this to his brother, Martin. As the year passed he carried on agricucultural pursuits. He saw many changes in the growth and development of the coun- THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 201 ty as it emerged from the wilderness to a populous residence district, replete with all the advantages of the east, with all of its improvements and its comforts. He was al-way an industrious man, energetic and diligent, and thus in his business affairs he prospered. He was also a well educated man of his day, was a fine penman and read extensively. He voted with the Democracy, but in anti-bellum days was an Abolitionist, his home being near the famed underground railroad. and by this road many a slave was aided northward on his way to freedom. In religious faith Mr. Kershner was a Presbyterian. He was twice married and by his first union he had three sons : Isaac, William and Jacob, who carried on the farm work, while the father followed his trade, but all are now deceased. A daughter. Mary. died when about twenty-two years of age. For his second wife Mr. Kershner chose Catherine Kline, and like her husband. she was of German lineage. She was a widow. having been previously married, and by her first union there were born three children : Henry Albert, who is married and lives with his children in Illinois; Mary Albert. who became the wife of Mr. Lehman, and died in Illinois ; and Catherine Albert, the widow (,f Henry Starrett. who was a shoemaker by trade and was an early settler of Springfield. his birth haying occurred in Champaign county, Ohio. Mrs. Starrett now resides in Springfield at the age of eighty-two years. By the second marriage of the parents of our subject five children were born. but two died in early childhood. The others are : Hezekiah. Philip and Leonidas. Tile last named is a carpenter and is living in Pennsylvania. Philip was also a carpenter and builder and died in Detroit Michigan. He raised a company for service in the Civil war, became its captain and went to the front with the Second Ohio Regiment. He afterward veteranized and remained with the army until the close of the war, taking part in numerous engagements until wounded and incapacitated for further duty. At the time of his re-enlistment he became colonel of his regiment and in this capacity served until, through his valor and meritorious service, he was promoted to the rank of director general. He was born and reared in Clark county and reached the age of sixty-five years. The father of our subject died upon the home farm at the age of seventy-six years, while his wife passed away at the age of seventy-three. Mr. Kershner, of this review, received a district school education in what is now the Possum schoolhouse. At that time the "temple of learning" was a log building, seated with slab benches and the same kind of desks. After leaving school he worked upon the home farm for a time and in 1842 he went to Dayton. Ohio, where he apprenticed himself to a brick contractor, there remaining for three years, during which time he mastered the trade. He then came to Springfield and worked for Mr. Trimmer, stone and brick contractor, with whom he remained for four months. In 1846 he began contracting on his own account on a small scale. He did his work well, was honorable in all business transactions and thus gradually his patronage increased. He has erected many of the leading blocks of the city, including the Ross shop, the Foos manufactory, the old Zimmerman block and many of the residences of Springfield. He is widel y known as a mason contractor, having gained a prominent position in building circles here,. although at the present time he is living retired. having in 1898 put aside business. 202 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. cares. His home is at No. 167 West Pleasant street, where he has lived since 1848, having built a home at the corner of Center and Pleasant streets when this locality was surrounded by a cornfield. In 1849 Mr. Kershner wedded Miss Eliza Johnson, who was born in Ireland in May. 1827, and is a daughter of James Johnson. who came to Springfield about 3849. and a sister of James. Robert and Isaac Johnson. Four children have been born unto our subject and his wife. of whom one died in infancy and another. Jacob H., died at the age of nine years. Edwin Allen. a carpenter, now in the employ of the Superior Drill Company, is married and has three children—Harry, Frederick and Robert. Nancy, the (laughter, is the wife of Robert Singer, a resident of Columbus. At the time of the Civil war Mr. Kershner raised Company A. of the Ninety-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and enlisted in 1862. He served for six months and then on account of ill health was obliged to resign. At that time he was first lieutenant of this company and be took part in the battles of Perryville and a number of skirmishes. being in an engagement three days after leaving Camp Pickaway. Mr. and Mrs. Kershner have for about fifty years been members of the Methodist Episcopal church. On the organization of St. Paul's church they transferred their membership to that body. In politics he is a Democrat, save at local elections, when he supports the men best qualified for office. He gives to his business his personal supervision and has always lived a quiet home life, caring not for political preferment. As the years have passed his close attention to business. his enterprise and his honorable methods, have been the means of bringing to him consider able success. and with the handsome competence acquired from his own labors he is now living retired in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil. MARSHFIELD STEELE. In a history of those who have contributed to the upbuilding, improvement and commercial prosperity of Springfield mention should be made of Marshfield Steele, who, through an active business career proved a valued addition to commercial circles here, so that his death was deeply deplored by many who had come to entertain for him high regard by reason of his sterling worth. his prominence in trade circles and his possession of those traits of character which draw man to man in ties of warm friendship. Mr. Steele was born in Caldwell, New jersey. August 27, 1822, a son of Marshfield Smith and Mary (Carlock) Steele. By intermarriage of the Steele and Bradford families shortly after their settlement in America. he was a direct descendant of Governor William Bradford, who came over in the Mayflower, and therefore belonged to one of the most prominent old Puritan families of New England. On the paternal side he traced his ancestry back to John Steele. who was born in Essex county, England. and became a resident of New England about 1631 or 1632. settling at New Town, now Cambridge. Massachusetts. He afterward removed to Hartford, Connecticut. becoming one of the first settlers of that place. His son. John Steele. Jr., wedded Mary Warner, and on the 1 5th of March, 3652, there was born to them a son, THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 203 Samuel Steele, who married Mercy, daughter of Major William Bradford. Their son, Eliphalet Steele, was born June 23, 1700, and married Catherine Marshfield. The next in direct descent was Josiah Steele, who was born in \Vest Hartford, Connecticut. February 23, 1724, and on the 2nd of December, 1753, married Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. Benjamin Colton. Their son, Josiah Steele. Jr., was the grandfather of our subject and a cousin of Noah Webster. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut, August 24, 1760, and was a student in Yale College at the time when the Revolutionary war was inaugurated, but ran away from school in order to enter the army and fight for the cause of liberty. He enlisted in the First Connecticut Regiment and was soon commissioned sergeant. This commission, dated at West Point, August 4, 1780, is a valued possession of the family. He was married August 15, 1790. to Phoebe Smith, and died October 22, 1836. Marshfield S. Steele, the father of our subject, was born May 1, 1797, and on the l0th of March, 1820, was united in marriage to Mary Carlock. In 1848 he came to Ohio and after spending a short time in Dayton, located in Springfield, where he made his permanent home, becoming one of the prominent business men of the city. Here he died in 1868, his remains being interred in Ferncliff cemetery. Mr. Steele, of this review, was educated in the schools of New Jersey and New York and lived in those states until 1846, when he made his way westward to Urbana, Ohio, where he engaged in teaching for one year. He then returned to his native state, but again came to Ohio in 1848. accompanied by his father and mother. They all located in Dayton, but in 1848 or 1849 our subject became a factor in the business life. of Springfield, and until the time of his death his efforts returned to him not only creditable success, but also contributed to the general prosperity of the city. He was engaged in the wholesale tobacco business. for a number of years and was also identified with the conduct of a foundry. He was en-- gaged in the manufacture of radiators under the firm name of Steele & Company, which was later incorporated as the M. Steele Company, Mr. Steele being its president. He constructed the first cable for the New York city cable cars. He also owned a large sugar plantation in Louisiana, and was a stockholder in the Baton Rouge Sugar Refinery Company, of Baton Rouge, up to the time of his death. His. business interests were of a varied nature, but all where successfully controlled, the business judgment of Mr. Steele being sound and practical. He carefully reviewed the possibilities of a business situation and his conclusions regarding such were usually exceptionally correct, the wisdom of his ̊pinions and his advice being demonstrated by the splendid success which attended his efforts. In 1853 occurred the marriage of Mr. Steele and Miss Martha Lehman, a daughter of Jonathan and Mary C. (Cannon) Lehman. Her father was a native of Frederick-town, Maryland, and came to Ohio when only four years of age with his father, David Lehman, who emigrated westward in 1805 and settled near Dayton, where the family always lived. Jonathan Lehman learned the trade of wagon-making and when a young man came to Springfield, after which he was identified with the industrial interests of this city. His wife came from Maryland to visit her sister, who re-- 204 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. sided in Springfield, and here she formed the acquaintance of Jonathan Lehman, who sought and won her hand in marriage. After following the business of wagon-making for a few years, Mr. Lehman turned his attention to the lumber trade and later became an extensive manufacturer of linseed oil. He made judicious investments in property and thus accumulated considerable real estate. For fifty years he was an elder in the Presbyterian church, and although his business interests were extensive and important, he yet found time to devote to church and kindred work, and his influence was strongly felt in the moral development of the community. Both he and his wife have now passed away, but their memory is still enshrined in the hearts of many who knew them. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Steele were born seven children : Charles L.; Mary, the wife of E. D. Plaisted ; Elizabeth, the wife of Frank Webb; George M. ; Anna B.. the wife of H. H. Cowherd ; Martha, who married W. W. Keifer ; and Helen A., wife of A. A. Ridden The family is one of prominence in the community. Here the children were reared and have lived to take a leading part in the social and business life of the city. In politics Mr. Steele was a stanch Republican and his influence and aid were given to the party which he believed would best conserve the nation's welfare, although he never sought or desired public office. In early life he became a member of the Masonic fraternity and he was a devoted member of the Second Presbyterian church, of Springfield. Through the years of a successful business career he providently provided for his family, placing considerable money in that safest of all investments—real estate and thus his wife and children have a good income from his estate. He passed away June 13. 1898, and was laid to rest in beautiful Ferncliff cemetery. H is life record exceeded the Psalmist's span of three score years and ten, for he reached the age of seventy-six. He had long been a resident of Springfield—a citizen of worth, interested in public progress and advancement and contributing of his time and means for the general good. He was a man of domestic taste, whose greatest happiness centered in his family, to whom he was a devoted husband and father, carefully rearing his children in accordance with principles that develop good character. and winning their confidence, respect and love by devoted kindness, while the companionship of husband and wife deepened and broadened as the years went by. Such a record influences individuals and, leaving its impress upon public progress, well deserves perpetuation in this volume. CHARLES A. JUERGENS, M. D. The world instinctively pays deference to the man whose success has been worthily achieved. who has attained wealth by honorable business methods, acquired the highest reputation in his chosen calling by merit, and whose social prominence is not ,the less the result of an irreproachable life than of recognized natural gifts. We pay the highest tribute to the heroes who on bloody battle fields win victories and display a valor that is the admiration of the world. Why should the tribute be withheld from these who wage the bloodless battles of civil life, who are conquerors in the world of business? Greater than in almost any other line of work is THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 205 the responsibility which rests upon the physician. The issues of life and death are in his hand. A false prescription, an. unskilled operation, may take from man that which he prizes above all else—life. The physician's power must he his own. Not by purchase, by gift or by influence can he gain it. He must commence at the very beginning, learn the rudiments of medicine and surgery, continually add to his knowledge by close study and application, and gain reputation by merit. If he would gain the' highest prominence it must come as the result of superior skill, knowledge and ability, and these qualifications are possessed in an eminent degree by Dr. Juergens, of Springfield. Dr. Juergens is a native of Germany. his birth having occurred in Oldenburg. April 2. 1841, his parents being Henry and Ann (Wohlers) Juergens. who were born and reared in Germany, where the father carried on merchandising. At the usual age the Doctor began his education in the public schools. showing special aptitude in his studies. and when a youth of twelve years he entered a gymnasium, where he pursued a rigid course of study in the leading sciences, languages and kindred subjects. devoting his attention to the mastery of the branches therein taught. for six years. He is a man of scholarly attainments. able to read and translate thirteen different languages, a number of which he speaks fluently. After passing his gymnasium examination he entered the University of Goettingen, and studied theology, but while there changed his mind about his life work and entered upon a medical course. attending lectures at Goettingen, Marbourg, Berlin and Greifswald. When he had completed his studies the Doctor resolved to seek a home in America, for he believed that in the new world he might find better professional opportunities than in his fatherland. Accordingly, he made his way across the Atlantic and for a time engaged in teaching languages and music in various cities of this country. He also to some extent engaged in the practice of medicine until his skill and ability in the latter direction became so widely recognized that his practice grew to extensive proportions and he was obliged to give up teaching. He resided for a time in Chicago, Illinois, and subsequently removed to Cincinnati, where almost immediately he entered on a large and successful business. In addition to his medical duties his thorough knowledge of the German language and his ability in translation placed him on the editorial staff of the Courier, a daily newspaper now published under the name of Anzeiger. The year 1868 witnessed the arrival of Dr. Juergen; in Springfield. Already he was known by reputation to many of the residents here, and within a short time he had gained -a liberal clientage from among the best class of Springfield's citizens. In 1873 he was appointed by the Springfield school board to conduct special examination of high school classes and also of applicants for positions in German. For several years the Doctor served in that capacity. He also became an active factor in musical circles of the city and a director in the Mannerchor Singing Society. He organized the Harmonia Music Society, and his efforts and enthusiasm were potent factors in developing the musical taste of this city. In 1879 he returned to Cincinnati, and again his practice there grew to extensive proportions. He lived in a beautiful villa in Elmwood, which was erected under his direction, and gained prominence socially as well as professionally. In 1892 he again came to Springfield. which' 206 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. will probably be his permanent place of residence. He has held leading positions in fraternal circles ; he was medical director of the Knights of the American Brotherhood, president of the Phoenix Mutual Aid Association and medical director of the Universal Brotherhood. He is also examiner of the Prudential Life Insurance Company, of New jersey, and the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, of Ohio. He has also been honored with the appointment to a position on the medical staff of St. Luke's Hospital. in Niles. Michigan, and he belongs to the Springfield board of trade. In varied lines of activity he has thus proved his usefulness and capability, and his worth is widely acknowledged wherever he is known. The Doctor has by his first wife two children living : Arthur and Amma. The latter is the wife of John Distler, of Buffalo. New York, and the former, Prof. Arthur Juergens. has for the past seven years been superintendent of music in the public schools of Springfield, is a composer of note, an artist on the violin and a thoroughly well educated man. For his second wife the Doctor chose Miss Bernhardine Mueller. and they have two children : Otto and Oscar. The Doctor's reading has never been confined alone to his profession, but has embraced subjects of wide range, making him a man of broad general information and scholarly attainments. He has the German's love of music and possesses marked ability in the art. He has a large circle of warm friends and his friendship is best prized by those who know him best. In his professional capacity he is widely known, his reputation extending beyond the limits of his state, and he is an honor to the profession in which he has won creditable distinction. THOMAS MATTINSON, SR. Thomas Mattinson, Sr.. is today one of the esteemed and venerable citizens of Clark county, where throughout a successful business career he has ever maintained a reputation for incorruptible integrity and fair dealing. A native of England, Mr. Mattinson was born in Westmoreland county on the 24th of April, 1820, and when a youth of fourteen years he came to America with his father, Thomas Mattinson. His mother, who bore the maiden name of Jane Beedham, had died in England prior to this time, and with his children the father sought a home in the new world, settling upon the farm which is now occupied by his grandson, Thomas Mattinson, Jr. Here the father of our subject spent his remaining days and prospered in his undertakings, becoming the owner of several hundred acres of land. He assisted in the arduous task of developing the wild region and opening up this section of the country to civilization, and his labors not only resulted in bringing him a comfortable competence., but were also of marked value to the community. In his family were sev- en children, of whom Thomas Mattinson of this review was the fifth in order of birth and is the only one now living. As above stated, Thomas Mattinson, Sr., spent the first fourteen years of his life in his native country and there acquired his early education. After coming to America his life was not exempt from the hard toil incident to pioneer settlement upon the frontier, for, he assisted his father in developing the old home place. After arriving at years of maturity he was united in marriage to Elizabeth A. Wilkinson, who was born in Ashtabula county. Ohio. October 15, THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 209 1834, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Mitchell) Wilkinson, both of whom were natives of England, her father having been born in Westmoreland county. He was acquainted with the parents of Mr. Mattinson before the emigration of the family to America and he came .to the new world several years prior to the arrival of the Mattinsons. The daughter, Elizabeth A. Wilkinson, was reared to womanhood in her native county, and her marriage to Mr. Mattinson was celebrated at Springfield, this state, since which time they have lived upon the farm that was settled by his father. Four children have been born to them, but all died in youth with the exception of one son, who is his father's namesake and is a prominent and influential farmer and stock dealer of Clark county. From his father Thomas Mattinson, Sr., inherited two hundred acres of land, and it was upon that farm that he settled with his bride, giving his attention to agricultural pursuits. He worked earnestly and long in his efforts to make his farm productive and valuable, and as he prospered he added to his place from year to year, purchasing adjoining tracts of land until his possessions aggregated sixteen hundred acres. all in one body. Not only did he engage in the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to the soil and climate, but throughout his active business career he also successfully carried on stock feeding. He now owns in addition to his Clark county property five hundred and twenty-five acres of land in Madison county and his real estate is the visible evidence his life of thrift. industry and enterprise. He was one of the incorporators of the Farmers National Bank of South Charleston, and served as one of its directors for many years. but when the bank gave up its - 11 - charter he withdrew from banking interests and his stock was turned over to his son, Thomas Mattinson, Jr., who is now a director in the Citizens Bank -of South Charleston, the successor of the Farmers National Bank. Mr. Mattinson of this review is now living a retired life, haying turned all his business and property interests over to his son, Thomas Mattinson, Jr. He has reached the age of eighty-two years and well does he deserve the rest from further labor which is vouchsafed to him. In his political views he has always been independent, having no desire for office and preferring to give his time and attention to his business affairs, in which he has indeed met with signal prosperity. Both he and his wife are Episcopalians in religious faith and are numbered among the esteemed citizens of the county where from pioneer days to the present they have continuously resided, watching with interest its substantial growth and upbuilding. In all business relations Mr. Mattinson has been found reliable and trustworthy and sustains an unassailable reputation for integrity that makes his example well worthy of emulation. THOMAS MATTINSON, JR. Thomas Mattinson, Jr., is the most extensive breeder of Aberdeen Angus cattle in Ohio, and is a progressive, wide-awake business man, whose efforts have resulted not alone to his individual good. but have been of marked benefit to agricultural classes. The Iran who is instrumental in improving a grade of stock whereby higher market prices are received is just as worthy to be termed a benefactor of his fellow men as is he who gives directly from his capital the means for 210 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the founding of institutions or for the up-building of communities. Mr. Mattinson makes his home near South Charleston upon the old family homestead which was at one time in the possession of his grandfather. He was born upon this farm December 18, 1864, his parents being Thomas and Elizabeth (Wilkinson) Mattinson. The sketch of his father is given above. Under the parental roof he was reared. Having obtained a common school education, he entered a business .college in Columbus and subsequently became a student in the State University of the capital city, remaining there for two years. He afterward matriculated in Miami University at Oxford, where he also continued his studies for two years, and since, that time he has given his attention to the work of the farm, which he has carried on in an energetic and profitable manner. His father, after obtaining his share of the grandfather's estate—two hundred acres—added to his possessions until he became the owner of about two thousand acres of land, of which six hundred acres is comprised within the home farm and the remainder is in Madison county, Ohio. In 1896 the subject of this review became the owner of the old homestead near South Charleston, and at that time he began raising Aberdeen Angus cattle, beginning with about fifty head of thoroughbreds. He has greatly increased the number until now he owns over two hundred pure 'bred registered cattle, together with about five hundred and fifty high grade cattle, this being the largest herd in the state of Ohio of that breed. He has had his cattle at the com bination sales in Indianapolis. Chicago and Omaha, where only pure bred cattle are sold, and has disposed of many animals at fancy prices, receiving an average price at those sales of more than two hundred dollars per head. He is a member of the American Aberdeen Angus Breeders' Assc4ciation, covering the United States and Canada. Mr. Mattinson is also a director in the Citizens Bank of South Charleston, in which he owns considerable stock. On the 21st of October, 1896. Mr. Mattinson was united in marriage to Miss Byrd Damarus Pugsley, of Clark county. a daughter of James F. and Damarus Byrd (Long) Pugsley. Her father was born October 3, 1824. in the town of Claverack, Columbia county. New York, and the mother's birth occurred at Sinking Springs in Highland county, Ohio. She died July 3, 1895. Eight children were born unto this worthy couple, of whom six are yet living. and Mrs. Mattinson is the fourth in order of birth. Her maternal grandfather was Judge Charles Willing Byrd, governor of the Northwest Territory. Unto our subject and his wife have been born three children: Margaret, born August 7, 1897; Thomas James, born February 7, 1899 ; and Byrd, born March 23, 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Mattinson are widely and favorably known in this county and he is one of the most progressive and successful farmers and stock dealers here. He thoroughly understands his business, gives it close attention and his laudable ambition, his close application and his earnest purpose have resulted in the acquirement of a handsome competence. JACOB C. KELLER. A man's reputation is the property of the world. The laws of nature have forbidden isolation. Every human being sub- THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 211 mits to the controlling influence of others, or as a master spirit wields a power either for good or evil on the masses of mankind. There can be no impropriety in justly scanning the acts of any man as they effect his public and business relations. If he is honest and eminent in his chosen field of labor, investigation will brighten his fame and point the path that others may follow with like success. From among the ranks of quiet. persevering yet prominent citizens—prominent on account of what he has clone in commercial circles—there is no one more deserving of mention in a volume of this character than Jacob C. Keller, who is now living in Springfield. where he has made his home since 1867, and has been the general superintendent of the P. P. Mast & Company since 1898. Mr. Keller was born in Reading, Pennsylvania, September 8, 1848, and is a son of John Keller, who was a school teacher, and was educated in Philadelphia. He married Esther Clouscer, who was likewise a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1810. He died in 1851, but his widow now resides in Reading. They were the parents of fourteen children, eight of whom grew to maturity : William, who died in August, 1902, near Reading: Daniel, who is living near Springfield, Illinois ; D. C., who served as colonel of a Pennsylvania regiment throughout the Civil war. died in Reading in May, 1902 ; Samuel. a farmer ; Jeremiah, who was a lieutenant of a company of Union soldiers in the Civil war; Sally, who is the wife of William Yauch and resides on a farm in Reading; Caroline, the widow of Alfred Brumbach, living at home with her mother ; and Jacob C. The last named was the thirteenth in order of birth in the family. He pursued a public school education and remained at home until eleven years of age, when he started out upon his business career, going to Philadelphia, where tre was employed for a time in a hotel. He then returned to the farm, where he remained until fifteen years of age, after which he began learning the molder's trade, and when he had served a three years' apprenticeship he remained with his employer as a journeyman for one year. On the expiration of that period he went to Decatur, Illinois, in 1866, remaining there for a year, and in 1867 he came to Springfield, Ohio, where he has since made his home. Here he found employment in the old Champion Foundry, and for many years has been identified with the industrial pursuits of Clark county. In the year following his arrival-1868 —in Springfield, Jacob C. Keller was married to Emma De Vault, who was born in this city, a daughter of Henry De Vault, who was a cooper by trade and a pioneer settler here. Mr. Keller began work for the New Champion Binder Works on the 7th of December and was married on the 8th of that month. He worked as a molder until 1870, when he entered the employ of P. P. Mast & Company. and in 1873 took charge of their foundry as foreman, filling that position continuously until 1898, when he was promoted to the superintendency of the plant. He now has under his superintendency about three hundred and fifty men, employing competent foremen to assist him. Not a little of the development and success of the business is justly attributable to his efforts. He has the entire confidence of the members of the company. and justly merits their good will and respect. He has worked his way up gradually from the time when he became connected with the trade at the age 212 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of fifteen years. By experience and observation he has become well versed in mechanics and is thoroughly competent to superintend any branch of the business. In his labors he has thus met with success and is to-day a well known and prominent factor in industrial circles of Springfield. In 1885 Mr. Keller erected his present home at No. 217 South Factory street and remodeled it in 1900. Unto him and his wife have been born five children, but two of the number died in early childhood. The others are: Harry H., who is employed in the office of P. P. Mast & Company, and is a graduate of the public schools of this city : Hettie B., the wife of George Lennert, inspector of the water works of Springfield and Gertrude A., the wife of August Duve. a lithographer of Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Keller is a Republican and an active worker in the city and county conventions, but the honors and emoluments have had no attractions for him personally. He has, however. been elected as a member of the board of .trustees of the Springfield water works and is serving his second term as president of the board. He has always been an upright and honorable man and would never stoop to anything dishonest, either in private life or public affairs. He has never missed a meeting of the water works board and in his official service has labored earnestly for the best interests of the people. He belongs to Anthony Lodge, F. & A. M.; to Springfield Chapter, R. A. M.; to Red Star Lodge, K. of P.: and to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He has also been a member of the board of trustees of the Springfield Building and- Loan Association since 1885. His success has been by no means the result of fortunate circumstances, but has come to him through en ergy, labor and perseverance, directed by an evenly balanced mind and by honorable business principles. From early life he made it his plan to spend less than his income. In manner he is quiet and straightforward, saying exactly what he means without the addition of useless compliments. Although rather retired he has a host of warm friends throughout the city and is a man whom to know is to esteem and honor. HON. ORAN F. HYPES. Among the leading and influential citizens of Springfield is numbered Hon. Oran F. Hypes, whose successful mercantile interests have made him a prominent factor in trade circles, while activity and loyalty in public affairs have classed him among the valued residents of his district, in which he has been honored with the office of legislator, having served as a member of the seventy-fifth general assembly of Ohio. Mr. Hypes was born in Xenia., Ohio, December 18, 1862, his parents being Samuel H. and Hannah (Van Brocklin) Hypes. His father, also a native of Ohio, was born in Greene county in 1826 and is now living in Xenia, where he is engaged in the insurance business. His wife is a native of Springfield. The paternal grandfather. Henry Hypes, was born in Virginia, but his father came from Germany, near Bingen on the Rhine, and on crossing the Atlantic to the new world he took up his abode in Virginia. establishing his home in the vicinity-of the Natural Bridge. From that place. early in the nineteenth century. he removed to Xenia, Ohio. and down to the present time the family has been prominent in the affairs THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 213 which have led to the substantial progress and improvement of the state. Oran F. Hypes spent his boyhood days in his native city, being reared under the parental roof. He was a student in the common schools, after which he entered the high school and was graduated with the class of 1879. He then became connected with mercantile interests in Xenia, helping build up the business with which he was identified until 1882. when he came to Springfield and at first opened a store on Main street, but later removed to No. 43 South Limestone street. where he deals in hats and men's furnrshrng goods, his being one of the leading establishments of the kind in the city. He was not long in demonstrating to the public that he was worthy of their patronage, and almost from the beginning of his residence here he has enjoyed a large and prosperous trade. His business methods are such as will bear the closest investigation and scrutiny.. and his earliest desire to please, combined with reasonable price, has secured to him a liberal and well deserved patronage. In 1889 occurred the marriage of Mr. Hypes and Miss Jessie B. Johnson. a daughter of Richard and Dorothy Johnson. the family being a prominent old one of Springfield, They have two children. Dorothy and Douglas. Fraternally Mr. Hypes has long keen connected with the Masonic order, and is a past master of Anthony Lodge, No. 455, F. &. A. M.. and past commander of Palestine Commandery, No. 33. Knights Templar. In his life he exemplifies the beneficent spirit of the craft. He has served as director of the Board of Trade. and is a charter member of the Commercial Club. Mr. Hypes is a Methodist and is one of the directors of the Young Men's Christian Association. and takes a deep and lasting interest in all that pertains to the material upbuilding of social welfare, the intellectual and moral advancement of his adopted city. With a firm faith in the principles of the Republican party, Mr. Hypes has been loyal and active in support of that great political organization since early manhood, even before becoming a voter, and has put forth every effort in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of the party. In 1901 he was elected a member of the general assembly of Ohio and served in the regular and extraordinary sessions of 1902 ; was appointed upon several important committees ; was secretary of the committee en taxation; chairman of the committee on public buildings and -lands ; and a member of the committee on insurance. In the extraordinary session called to create a new code of laws for municipal government Mr. Hypes was named by the speaker to serve en the special committee to report a bill to the house. Such. in brief, is his life history. In whatever relation of life we find him—in business. in society, in government circles or in political service—he is always the same honorable and honored gentleman whose worth well merits the high regard which is uniformly given him. ALEXANDER C. PATTON Alexander C. Patton. now deceased, was a mon whose upright Christian character had marked influence on the development of the community. Not by precept but by example (lid he demonstrate the better way of life, and thus to his family he left the priceless heritage of an untarnished name. He was born January 14, 1838, in Belmont county. 214 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Ohio, and was a son of William and Ann (Clark) Patton. Our subject grew to manhood in Belmont county, was reared upon a farm and received a good common-school education. He was married October 1861, in that county. to Miss Agnes J. Sharp. who was born and reared there and was a daughter of William and Caroline ( Harrah) Sharp. She received a good education. her early educational privileges afforded by the common school being supplemented by two years' attendance in the seminary in Washington. Pennsylvania. Mr. Patton's father had given him a farm in Belmont county, and there the young couple began their domestic life, his attention being then given to the cultivation of his fields until he joined the army. In 1863, feeling that his first duty was to his country, he organized a company of soldiers and was elected captain. They went to the front as Company I, of the One Hundred and Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for one hundred days, and were sent to Harper's Ferry. Two companies were there consolidated. and on that occasion Mr. Patton was made first lieutenant. After about four months' service he received an honorable discharge, having in the meantime participated in several skirmishes around Harper's Ferry. Becoming ill, he was sent to the hospital at Annapolis. Maryland. from which place he was granted a furlough which allowed him to return home, where he remained until the expiration of his term; of service, when he was honorably discharged at Columbus. Captain Patton continued a resident of Belmont county until 1869, when he sold his farm there and purchased a tract of land in Clark county, comprising two hundred and forty-six acres. which is yet the homestead of the family. He was an industrious, en terprising man, who labored earnestly, being never negligent in his work. His efforts brought good results, and he became one of the prosperous and well-to-do agriculturists of this community, providing his family with a good home and comfortable living and leaving to his widow an estate ample for her needs. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Patton were born two children : William S., who married Florence Creagar, by whom he has four children —Helen M., Grace J., Raymond and Pauline, their home being in Harmony township : and Anna I., who is yet with her mother. Both children were provided with good educational privileges. and the son was for one year a student in Wittenberg College and for one year studied in Wooster College. Miss Anna entered Oxford College,'where she was graduated on the completion of a musical course, and later spent one year in the Boston Conservatory of Music. In his political views Mr. Patton was a Republican. He kept well informed on the issues of the day, and for several years he served as township trustee. He took an active part in everything pertaining to the growth and success of his party and frequently served as a delegate to its conventions. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church and for several years served as clerk of sessions. He had an unusually retentive memory, and could repeat whole chapters in the Bible and the entire book of Psalms. If any one would begin a Biblical quotation he would take it up, complete the chapter and even tell what verse was used in the beginning. He had, too. a great love of music and poetry, and many poems which he loved he could recite without once referring to the book. Blank verse was his especial favorite, and the kindly na- THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 215 ture which usually accompanies a love of music, poetry and the Bible was his in an unusual degree. He died July 10, 1899, secure in his Christian faith. He had so lived as to be honored by his fellow men and his memory is as a blessed benediction to those who knew him. WILLIAM SHARP PATTON. William Sharp Patton, who is carrying on general farming and stock raising in Harmany township is a native son of Belmont county, Ohio. his birth having occurred there July 28, 1862. his parents being Captain Alexander Clark and Agnes J. (Sharp) Patton. The first years of his life were spent in the county of his nativity, and he then accompanied his parents to Clark county, where he was reared to manhood on the home farm. At the usual age he entered the public schools, and when he had completed the course of instruction there he spent a year as a student in Wittenberg College and also one year in study at Wooster. The occupation to which he was reared he has always made his life work, and in his farming methods he has kept abreast with the improvements of the times. On the 24th of October, 1880. in Harmony township. he wedded Miss Florence Creagar, who was born in Frederick county. Maryland. and came to Ohio in 1869 with her parents, Joseph and Mary A. ( Smith) Creagar. who located in Springfield township. where. her father carried an farming. Both were born in Frederick county. Maryland, and became highly respected residents of this locality. Her father died in 1888, at the age of sixty-one years, but her mother is still living, and makes her home in Springfield township. Mrs. Patton received a good common-school education, and is an estimable lady, who presides with gracious hospitality over her home. By her marriage she has became the mother of four children : Helen M., born in Knox county, Indiana, October 19. 1890: Grace Jeanette, born on the home farm in Harmony township, December 5, 1896 ; Raymond Alexander, born December 24, 1897; and Myrtle Pauline, born November 17, 1899. At the time of their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Patton removed to Knox county, Indiana, where he owned one hundred and fifty acres of land and for five years they resided upon that farm. On the expiration of that period. however, they returned to Clark county and Mr. Patton purchased his present farm of two hundred and ten acres in Harmony township. Upon this he built a very fine residence in 1901. He has his farm well tiled, and has cleared forty-five acres of his land. He is wide-awake, enterprising agriculturist. and his life shows the force of industry and perseverance in the acquirement of success. He votes with the Republican parts- and is a member of the Presbyterian church at South Charleston. CLARENCE S. RAMSEY, M. D. It is a noticeable fact that in this land, as in no other, young men are found at the front in professions and in business life. Dr. Ramsey is a notable example of this fact. Although he has attained the age of only twenty-eight years. he has advanced in the medical fraternity to a position of distinction, and his work in the line of his pro- 216 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD fession has been of such a nature as to gain for him the recognition of his professional brethern as well as of the public. The Doctor was born in Steubenville, Ohio, January 6, 1875, and comes of Scotch lineage. 'Throughout almost his entire life he has resided in Springfield. He obtained his common school education in the public schools, his collegiate work being prosecuted in Wittenberg College, in which institution he was graduated with the class of 1895. He then entered the business world, accepting a position as bookkeeper with the firm of William Ramsey & Company, commission merchants. He acted in that capacity for some time, but believing that he would find. professional life more congenial, he became a student of medicine in the office and under the direction of Dr. Buckingham, of Springfield, and continued his studies in the Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, in which he was graduated with the class of 1900. Again taking up his abode in this city. Dr. Ramsey opened his office in the King Building. He was appointed house physician to the Charity Lying-in Hospital, Philadelphia, his duties being largely in the line of obstetrical work. In 1901 he received appointment as resident physician in the Jefferson Medical College, which he saw fit to decline. He is physician to the county infirmary, also examiner in the United States recruiting service. His military record consists of connection with the National Guard from 1892 until 1899. He first served in the Hospital Corps, of which he afterward became hospital steward. He was then promoted to regimental commissary, Third Regiment, Ohio National Guard, and during the Spanish-American war was made regimental quartermaster of the Third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He is a close student of text books bearing upon the science of medicine and its principles, as also its practical workings, and further extends his knowledge and usefulness through association with the members of the Springfield Academy of Medicine and the Clark County Medical Society. In the year 1902 Dr. Ramsey was united in marriage to Miss Della Wilson. of this city. The Doctor is a member of Clark Lodge. No. 101, F. & A. M. His choice of a profession seems to have been wisely made. for he finds it congenial and has a deep interest in his work, both from a scientific standpoint and from the position of one who possesses broad humanitarian views. He was endowed by nature with a good mind and strong purpose, and these, supplemented by a laudable ambition and unfaltering devotion to his chosen calling, have gained him already a creditable place in the ranks of the medical fraternity. ELIZA ANDERSON DYE, M. D. E. A. Dye. M. D., one of the most skilled and prominent physicians and surgeons of Clark county, now practicing in Vienna. v: as born near Woodview, Morrow county. Ohio. July 13. 1871. His parents were the Rey. Thomas W. and Alice (Kraut) Dye. The father, also a native of Morrow county. was reared upon a farm there, and was indebted to the common school system for the educational privileges he enjoyed in his youth. He was always a student, reading and thinking deeply, and he became a successful teacher, being employed for nineteen years in the same school. At the time of THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 219 the Civil war he joined the Union army and served for three years as a private in defense of the old flag and the cause it represented. Soon after his return from the war he was married and began preaching in Butler. Ohio, as a minister of the Free Will Baptist church. Throughout his remaining days he devoted his attention largely to the work of the ministry and his influence was widely and strongly felt in behalf of the church. Dr. Dye of this review was only about eight or nine years of age when his father died, and for five years thereafter he was employed on a farm by one man. At the age of sixteen he entered the Johnsville high school and was graduated at the age of twenty with the class of 189o. He was. ambitious to gain an education and prepare for some useful walk in life and resolved to make the practice of medicine his chosen work. He began studying in Wittenberg College as a preparation for some advanced professional line. In 1894 he entered the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati and was ao-r ciliated in that institution with the class of 1897. He also received the diploma of graduation from the eve and ear department. having made a specialty of that branch of medical science. Dr. Dye entered upon the practice of medicine in Indiana. where he remained for two and one-half years. He then went to Chicago and was afterward in the south. being associated with an uncle. Dr. T. B. Kraut. whom he assisted in performing an operatron for umbilical hernia. which operation proved a success, although it was a most difficult ne. In December. 1899. the Doctor came to Clark county. locating in Harmony township. In 1901 he was called in in a case of appendicitis. on which he oper atecl, and his patient was the only one of eight operated upon in this neighborhood that lived through an attack of that disease and the only case of which the Doctor had charge. He has been most successful in his practice and is continually augmenting his skill by reading, investigation and research along the line of medical science. On the l0th of April. 1902. in Harmony township, Dr. Dye was united in marriage to Miss Nina Smith, who was born in Harmony township and is a daughter of Amos and Catherine (Wirt) Smith. She is a most estimable lady and one well read. She completed a public school course in 1898 and spent the year of 1900-1901 as a student in Wittenberg- College. The Doctor is a Republican in his political views, having always voted for the presidential candidates with the exception of the year 1892, when he cast his ballot with the Prohibition party. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity at Vienna. to the Junior Order of American Mechanics, and also to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In the line of his profession he is connected with the Clark County Medical Association and with the State Medical Society and through the interchange of thought, experience and knowledge in these meetings he is continually broadening his own knowledge and thus adding to his usefulness as a member of ,ne of the most valued professions of the world. ALONZO F. TAFT. Alonzo F. Taft, who is connected with farming interests in Madison township, was born in Franklin county, Massachusetts. May 18. 1833. his parents being Chapin and 220 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Harriet (Bardwell) Taft. The boyhood days of our subject were spent upon his father's farm of one hundred and sixty acres and in addition to the common school privileges which he enjoyed. he attended the Shelburn Falls Academy for two years at his own expense. having previously earned the money to meet his tuition. He entered that institution when a youth of fifteen. He performed all of the chores upon the home farm in the morning and evening and then had to walk a distance of four miles to the high school at Montague. which was the nearest town to his home. Before he entered the academy he had been employed by the month as a farm hand at eight and twelve dollars per month and thus earned the money with which he met the expenses of his academic course. His father had died when the son was only four years of age, leaving the mother with nine children. so that the advantages which the family received were very limited, save those which they acquired for themselves. After leaving the academy Mr. Taft engaged in teaching for some time during the winter months. and thus had acquired capital sufficient to enable him to continue his own education in the State Normal School at Westfield. The tuition there was free, but he had to meet his board bills and other necessary expenditures. He entered into a contract to deliver books that had been sold on the subscription plan and was then sent to Jonesville and Hillsdale. Michigan, in the interest of Mr. Bills, of Norwich. Connecticut. When he reached his destination he received word that the books had been shipped to Buffalo and from there would be transmitted over the lake route. but this could not be done, for the lake was then frozen over and navigation for the season was closed. ML Taft then secured a situation as a teacher in a school. which he conducted for four months. This provided him with some ready money, and the next spring he began the delivery of the books. which had ultimately arrived. During three winters he continued his school work and in the summer months engaged in delivering books. He vas then taken ill and went to the water cure in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was advised to go south. Following this advice. he secured a position as a teacher in a school in Clermont county, Ohio. where he remained for three years as a teacher in a small village. During the last year there Mr. Taft was united in marriage on the 1 7th of March, 18z8. to Miss Mary T. Bragg. and three chlldren were born to them : William H.. who is now a resident of Springfield. Ohio ; Alonzo F., who married Amanda White and lives in Dayton, Ohio ; and Charles R., of Springfield, Ohio. After his marriage Mr. Taft turned his attention to merchandising in Clermont county, but after a year he removed his store to Martinsville, Clinton county, and for seven years was there successfully engaged in merchandising. He then determined to change the field of his labor, and selling out at that place came to South Charleston, where he was in business for fourteen years. Severing his connection with mercantile affairs, he became a representative of the agricultural interests of Clark county and purchased a place of one hundred and sixty acres in Madison township. formerly known as the Joshua Harrison farm, whereon he made his home until March 5. 1902, when his residence was destroyed by fire and he returned to the town, where he is now living. In 1877 Mr. Taft was called upon to THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 221 mourn the loss of his wife, who died in South Charleston. in the month of October of that year. In December. 1878, he was again married, his second union being with Miss Mary Sweet. who was born in South Charleston and is a daughter of Griffith F. and Martha ( Jones) Sweet. She is a lady of superior education and culture. and for sixteen years was engaged in teaching school in South Charleston. In his political views Mr. Taft has been an earnest and stalwart Republican, since casting his ballot in support of John C. Fremont. the first candidate of the party. He has never been an office seeker, yet he was elected and served for three years as justice of the peace in Clinton county and for eight or ten years in Madison township. Clark county. Of all the cases he has ever tried, his opinion has been reversed by a higher court in only one instance. He has performed many marriage ceremonies and otherwise faithfully and acceptably discharged the duties of his office. He was reared in the Congregational church, but afterward became a member of the Baptist church, and both he and his wife are now members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he is an earnest and faithful worker. He has also been superintendent of the Sunday school and Mrs. Taft a teacher therein, and their influence and labors in behalf of Christianity have been effective and far reaching. Mr. Taft became a member of the Masonic order in New Vienna, Clinton county, and was connected with that lodge for about two years. He afterward aided in organizing and became a charter member of Martinsville Lodge. F. & A. M., serving as its master until his removal from that place. when he demitted to become a member of Fielding Lodge. F. & A. M.. of South Charleston, of which he has served as master for thirteen years. He has also attended the meetings of the grand lodge and is a worthy representative of the craft and in his life shows forth its 'teachings concerning brotherly kindness and mutual helpfulness. WILLIAM CONKLIN. For forty-two years William Conklin has been a resident of Springfield, and his worth as a citizen in public affairs and as. a representative of business interests is widely acknowledged. At the present time he is living a retired lifer in the enjoyment of a rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves. He was born in Somerset county, New Jersey, August 18, 1827, and was educated in the subscription schools, while I was reared upon the home farm of his parents. William. and Cornelia (Goltry) Conklin, both of whom were natives of New Jersey and were of English ancestry. The father was a well known farmer, and died at the home of his son in Springfield at the age of seventy-nine years. He was a man of strong constitution, and in his business affairs was energetic and determined acquiring all that he possessed. When the country became involved in the second war with England, in 1812, he joined the army as a private. His political support was given the Democracy. In his family were six children, but only two are now living: William, who was the eldest, and Mrs. Elizabeth Trowell, of Franklin, Indiana. Those who have passed away are: John. who was a well known grocer of Springfield and for four years served as a soldier in the Civil war : Stephen James, 222 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. who made his home in Springfield for a time ; and Augusta, who was the wife of Granville Winger. William Conklin was educated in the subscription schools and remained upon the home farm until sixteen years of age, when he went to Brooklyn, New York, where he learned the mason's and plasterer's trade, serving a four years' apprenticeship. He afterward worked in that city as a journeyman, and in 1859 he located in Yellow Springs, Greene county, Ohio. where he began doing contract work. In 1863 he came to Springfield and has since continuously resided in this city. He located at his present home in 1865. it being a country residence at that time. He purchased property and built for himself thirty-three dwellings in this city. He was also one of the pioneer mason contractors and employed many men, for a large share of the business in his line was awarded him. He was generally engaged as a plasterer. and during the busy seasons had a force of ninety workmen. His extensive operations and capable management made him well-to-do, and at length he retired with a handsome competence. His own home, which he erected, was one of the first built in the .neighborhood: The last contract which he took was on the Savings Bank in 1899, and since that time he has lived retired from business cares. He was one of the prime movers in the purchase of the plant now operated by the Trump Manufacturing Company, and since the incorporation of this company he has been its vice- president. He is also one of the directors of the Lagonda National Bank and of the Champion Coal & Ice Company. Mr. Conklin has been twice married. On Long Island. on the 3d of January, 1854, he wedded Mary Selleck, who died in Spring field. March 20, 1863. She had four children, of whom three died in infancy, while Anna is the widow of Charles Atkinson and has two children, Charles Dewitt and George Harry. In March. 186. Mr. Conklin was again married being his second union being with Emily E. Cole, who was a school teacher in Springfield. She was -born in Pulaski. Otsego county, New York. in October. 1833. pursued a public school course and in 1855 came to this city, where for eight years she was closely and actively associated with educational work, being one of the most capable instructors in the schools here at an early day. She has always had considerable influence along such lines and has been a popular member of social circles where true worth and intelligence are received as the passports into good society. When she was a little maiden of twelve years she went with an uncle in 1836 to Racine county, Wisconsin. This was during the territorial days of the state and her uncle. Albert G. Cole, engaged in the practice of law there and was one of the delegates who framed the constitution when the state was admitted to the Union. His efforts, too, were effective in securing its admission, and he was a prominent and influential citizen. Mrs. Conklin remained in Wisconsin for nine years. By her marriage she became the mother of two children : Alexander C. and Emily C., but both died in early childhood. Mr. Conklin has been a member of the city council, and for eleven years was a member of the board of education. He has never sought official honors, being of a modest and rather retiring disposition. but these were conferred upon him by his fellow townsmen, who recognized his worth and ability. He belongs to Springfield Lodge. No. 33, I. O. O. F., has passed all of the chairs and is THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 223 a member of the encampment. His identification with the order dates from 1865. Both he and his wife hold membership with the First Congregational church, take an active part in its growth and in the extension of its influence and for several years he has served as church treasurer. He has always been active in promoting any enterprise tended to advance the interests of the city and its people, and his unswerving purpose, his unquestioned fidelity, his unfaltering honesty, and his unchanging will have commanded the highest respect of all. A leader in the cause of liberty, of freedom and of progress, his hearty co-operation has ever been given to that which tends to elevate mankind. CHRISTIAN MARTIN. Christian Martin is numbered among the progressive and influential farmers of Green township, where he has also been extensively engaged in stock raising and the breeding of shorthorn cattle. He is well posted on the latest and best methods of practical farming, his valuable farm being kept in good condition. On it he raises cattle of good grade, and is authority in his community on the subject of shorthorn cattle. having had wide experience in the raising of these, in which occupation he has met with excellent success. Mr. Martin was born in Washington county, Maryland. October 20, 1836, and is a son of Emanuel and Anna (Doyle) Martin. The parents both died in Maryland, the father at the age of eighty-one years and the mother at the age of sixty-six. On the home farm in Washington county. Maryland, Christian Martin was reared. receiving the privileges of a fair common school education. He worked on the farm for his father until he was about twenty-seven years of age, or until the time of his marriage. and from the time of reaching his majority he received from him a remuneration for his services. On the 1st of January, 1863, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah E. Bowers, a former schoolmate, who was also a native of Washington county, Maryland. She was born December 10, 1843, and was a daughter of Jacob and Mary Ann (Bergesser) Bowers. Her father died in Maryland at the age of fifty years, while her mother is still living at the age of ninety years, making her home in Springfield. At the time of his marriage Mr. Martin received from his father the earnings that had accumulated during the years he had worked on the home farm—about five hundred dollars. With this start he began his domestic life and rented a farm for five years. On the expiration of this period he had acquired about five thousand dollars. In 1869 he removed to Ohio. settling in Green township, Clark county, where he purchased eighty acres of land and lived thereon for about sixteen years. In the meantime he had purchased eighty acres upon which his home now stands, and on his removal to the latter place he rebuilt the house and also erected a substantial barn. The neat and thrifty appearance of the farm indicates the careful supervision. of the owner, who is ever awake to the improved methods of the clay in regard to farming and stock raising. Everything is in good sanitary condition, the farm is rich and productive, and the success of Mr. Martin has been assured from almost his first business venture, showing that he has sound business judgment and executive force to carry to a successful com- 224 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. pletion plans which seem to him to be best. His landed possessions are considerable. Besides the property above named, he owns a lot in Springfreld and one hundred and sixty acres of land between the Springfield pikes. Eight children have graced the union of Mr. Martin and his wife; but one died in infancy. Harvey Grant, born March 27, 1864, in Washington county, Maryland, is a graduate of Wittenberg College, in Clark county, of the class of 1889, and has engaged for some time in teaching; Silas Clinton, born in Washington county, Maryland, December 4, 1865, also received a good education ; Emanuel Jacob, born September 12, 1867, in Washington county, Maryland, married Anna German, and resides in Springfield township, with his wife and five children—Ernest F., Lola, Walter, Jennie and Charles Lewis ; John Henry, born January 15, 1869, in Washington county, Maryland, married Edith Davis, and has two children, Edna May and Alice Lenora ; Charles Lewis, born February 21, 1872, died in March, 1872, in Springfield ; Mary Catherine was born June 23, 1873 ; Albert Lewis, born October 17, 1876, married Ethel Grindle and has two children—Cecil and Harry Leo ; Jessie Lulu, born August 30. 1882, was a graduate of Clifton College, in the class of 1899, receiving high honors. Mr. Martin has strong faith in the principles of the Republican party, and has always advocated its cause, although he is retiring and does not desire. offrce, preferring rather to devote his time and attention to his business pursuits. Both he and his wife were reared in the faith of the Lutheran church, but are now identified with the Presbyterian church, as are two of the children. The family is highly respected for their genuine worth of character. and in the enjoyments of the comforts of life and many of its pleasures, which are the result of their years of industry, they live in peace with their fellow men, respected and honored by all. JOHN C. CLIPPINGER. John C. Clippinger is connected with the industrial interests of Springfield as foreman of the P. P. Mast Manufacturing Company. He was born in Cumberland, Allegany county, Maryland, October 3. 1856. and is a son of Valentine B. and Catherine (Startzman) Clippinger. The father was born in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, in 1823, while the mother's birth occurred near Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1826. Valentine B. Clippinger followed the trade of a coppersmith and tinsmith in the employ of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and remained in the service of the company a long time, living in Cumberland, Maryland. In 1863 he removed to New Carlisle. Ohio, where he was in business for about two years, and on selling out at the end of that time came to Springfield. where he followed the tinsmith's trade as a journeyman until 1898, since which time he has lived retired at No. 255 West North street. He has always been an active man in business and public affairs, and by reading has kept well informed on the issues of the day. He belongs to the Royal Arcanum, and both he and his wife are members of the First Lutheran church. In politics he was in early life a Whig, and upon the dissolution of that party he joined the ranks of the new Republican party and has since fought under its banner. Unto Mr. and Mrs. 'Valentine B. Clip- THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 225 pinger have been born twelve children, seven of whom reached years of maturity : William H., who is a bookkeeper and salesman in Indianapolis, Indiana; Charles Edward. who formerly resided in Springfield, but is now a confectioner of Bellefontaine,. Ohio; Emma, the wife of Abram Myers, who is a foreman pattern maker for the Springfield Malleable Iron Company ; John C. ; Joseph A.. who is an employe of the P. P. Mast Company of Springfield ; Effie, the wife of A. M. Dissinger. who has charge of the opera house of this city ; and Clara Belle, the wife of Haves Stockstill, a salesman of Dayton, Ohio. During his boyhood John C. Clippinger came to Springfield with his parents and here attended the public schools. He was also a student in a select school for a year, and then began to earn his own livelihood as an employe in a furniture factory of Foos, Mulligan & Kyle, learning the trade of a finisher. He served a four years' apprenticeship. during which time he became an expert workman in the line. He afterward entered the employ of Baker & Christie, a new firm, with which he remained for eighteen months, after which he entered the Lagonda shops of Warder, Bushnell & Glessner. He was in the paint department, remaining there from 1874 until 1876, when he obtained a position with the New Champion Company, being thus engaged until 1885. In that year he entered the service of the P. P. Mast Company, and has gradually advanced to a prominent position. In 1889 he was appointed foreman of the paint department, and now has under his supervision fifteen men. He is thoroughly competent to take charge of any branch of the business in this line. to control the department and expand its usefulness. and he has the unreserved confidence of the house, his employers recognizing his ability and fidelity to duty. In 1880 Mr. Clippinger was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ellen Kohler, who was born in Greencastle, Pennsylvania, in 1863, and is a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Croft) Kohler. The former is deceased, while the latter is living with her daughter in this city. She was born in 1831. They had eight children, of whom four are yet living: Catherine, wife of Clarence Chrissinger, of Hagerstown, Maryland ; Martha J., the wife of Clarence M. Miller, of Springfield: Mrs. Clippinger ; and David S., who is chief engineer in the Edison light plant of Columbus. The parents came to this city in 1877. and in 1883 returned to Maryland, but Mrs. Clippinger was here educated. By her marriage she became the mother of four children : Lester died in infancy. The others are : Delmer K., who was born in August, 1882 ; John Sherman, born in June, 1885 ; and Catherine Elizabeth, horn in December, 1891. The eldest son is now a student in Nelson's Business College, and the others are in the public schools. Mr. Clippinger has always taken an active part in politics since becoming a voter. He cast his first presidential ballot for the candidate of the Republican party and has since been ever loyal to its principles. He has served as a delegate to city and county conventions, but has never been an aspirant for offrce, although he was elected as a member of the city council in April, 1902, for a two years' term, ; and is now chairman of the committee on police and fire. He has also served on various other committees. He has taken an active interest in municipal affairs, putting forth every effort possible to promote the general welfare and advance public prog- 226 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ress. His wife is an active member of the First Lutheran church. and he belongs to the Independent Order of Foresters, in which he has held the office of court deputy for several years. He also belongs to the Protective Home Circle. He is a man of domestic tastes and habits and finds his greatest happiness at his own fireside, having built a nice modern house at No. 69 South Race street, in 1894, where he has since resided. NATHAN O. MINEAR, D. O. There has been marked advancement—in fact, almost a revolution in the methods of treating disease in the past quarter or half of a century. Investigation, study and research have br0ught to light many valuable truths in connection with the work of healing and restoration of the vital forces of the body, and the practice of osteopathy has won recognition as one of the most important elements in the great work which falls to the lot of the physician. Dr. Minear is a representative of this department of practice and during his four years' residence in Springfield he has gained a very liberal patronage, as he. has demonstrated his skill and ability to successfully cope with disease. The Doctor is a native of Elkhart county, Indiana, his birth having occurred near the city of Elkhart on the 13th of February. 1861. He is a son of Charles W. and Catherine (Miller) Minear, who are now residents of Kirksville, Missouri. The father formerly followed agricultural pursuits. but since 1880 has lived retired in Kirksville. Both he and his wife are about sixty-five years of age. On leaving Indiana the father removed with his family to Iowa. where he carried on farming until 1867, when he took up his abode in Kirksville, Missouri, there continuing to engage in the tilling of the soil until his retirement from active business life. Both he and his wife are earnest workers and loyal members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mrs. Minear is of German lineage. By their marriage they became the parents of three children, the eldest being Dr. Minear of this review. James F., the second son, is a graduate of the College of Osteopathy in Kirksville, Missouri, and is now practicing in Fort Scott, Kansas. The youngest son died in infancy. In the district schools Nathan 0. Minear pursued his early education and at the age of fourteen became a student in the public school of Kirksville, where he was graduated. Subsequently he entered the State Normal there and was graduated in the latter institution with the class of 1881. He possessed special aptitude in his studies, having a great fondness for books, and for four years engaged in teaching in Missouri, after which he turned his attention to merchandising, becoming connected with a general store near Kirksville. There he remained until 1895, when his inclination for professional life led him into another department of labor. Upon leaving school he had studied medicine for a short time but had been dissaudecl from continuing his preparation for medical practice and had taken up teaching instead. In 1895, however, he sold his business interests and entered the American School of Osteopathy. conducted by Professor A. T. Still, and was graduated in 1898, having gained a broad and comprehensive knowledge of the science whose value to the world has been recognized at a comparatively late date, but its worth has THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 229 been so manifest that it has received almost universal recognition and support. Dr. Minear first located in Xenia, Greene county, Ohio, but believing that there was a better field of labor in Springfield, he came to this city in 1898 and opened his present office, since which time he has enjoyed a large and constantly growing practice. He gradually influenced the public to investigate his methods and his honorable dealings, combined 'with his skill in his profession, has won for him steady success. He was one of the first to introduce the treatment according to osteopathy in Springfield. The word comes from two Greek words, "osteon," meaning bone, and "pathos," suffering. Therefore osteopathy is the science of treating diseases manually, by the adjustment of all the parts and organs to their natural relations, thus removing the irritations resulting from abnormal relations and removing obstacles to vital forces and fluids of the body, also by stimulating mechanically all organs to their proper functions or inhibiting abnormally active processes or movements of portions of the bodily organism. It therefore must have four its foundation a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of human anatomy and physiology and of the normal and abnormal action and metabolism of all parts of the bodily mechanism. Osteopathy reorganizes man as a human machine capable of self repair when adjusted in all its parts as nature intended it. Health is our natural right and disease is the result of some abnormal derangement of the human mechanism. An osteopath is simply an engineer who rectifies and repairs any such derangements acting upon the human body the same as a jeweler examining and keeping in repair a watch. The forces that tend to derange - 12 - the human mechanism are over exertion, extreme heat and cold, external violence, use of poisons, entering of germs into the system. The vital forces in a state of health have facilities at hand to thoroughly protect the organism against the attack of germs. The duty of the physician is to so carefully read and to so interpret the expressions of life as to determine to what degree it is wise to equalize the distribution of functional activities of the body. To a certain degree this lack of balance may be corrected and a more equal distribution of functional activities of vital forces realized by the scientific manipulation of the human mechanism. Osteopathy can accomplish this by keeping the structural adjustment perfect, by maintaining functional adaptation and co-operation among the organs directing energy so as to secure equal distribution of force, lessening and removing muscular rigidity ; all this through sensations which act upon the sensorium and through it upon the entire motor mechanism of the body. In his continued practice Dr. Minear has been extremely successful and his business is constantly increasing as the practicability of his methods are recognized by the public. In Calloway county, Missouri, near the town of Fulton, Dr. Minear was united in marriage to Miss Georgia Darnes, in 1883. She was educated in the public schools of that locality, her father being a farmer there. They have six children : Nollie 0., who is a. bookkeeper; Lloyd V. and James F., students in the high school; Norman W.; and Mabel and Myrtle (twins). The children have all been educated in the schools of Springfield. The parents are members of the Presbyterian church. The Doctor is a Republican in his political views. The family has a pleasant home at No. 356 230 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. South Center street and the members of the household have already gained an enviable position in the social circles of the city. J. NEWTON GRISSO. J. Newton Grisso, the manager of the Spot Cash grocery, located at No. 385 South Fountain avenue in Springfield, has always lived in Clark county, his birth having occurred at Grisso Mills, in Springfield township, January 22, 1860. He is a son of John Grisso and a representative of one of the oldest pioneer families in this portion of the state. The founder of the family here was his great-grandfather, George Grisso, who was a farmer by occupation. He was born in Coffintree township, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, July 6, 1783, and died in March, 1884, when nearly one hundred and one years of age, being the oldest man in Clark county at that time. When a child he removed with his parents to Virginia, and at a very early day came to Ohio, settling on a tract of land west of Springfield when that city was a collection of but fifteen or twenty log houses. This was in 1812, and the rival "city" at that time was Boston, near the present home of Leander Baker, on the Valley pike, which was perhaps half as large. Mr. Grisso well remembered the contest between these places for the court house and how rejoiced the citizens of Springfield were over their victory, although they came out but a few votes ahead. In politics he was always a Democrat, as most of his family have been, but he paid little attention to public affairs and very seldom voted. Religiously he was a quiet, though consistent, member of the German Baptist, or what is more commonly called the "Dunkard" church, and he said "I was baptized in 1812 in Peter's creek, Salem, Virginia." During the war of 1812 he was drafted, but as his church was opposed to warfare and taught that disputes should be settled by peaceful methods, he left his home and with his little family came to the west to try his fortune. He was married in Virginia in 1809 to Catharine Frantz, who was the mother of all his children, eight in number, and died in 1841 at the age of fifty-five years. Two years later he married her cousin, Nancy Frantz, who died in 1870. Of his children one died in infancy, while the remaining seven lived to rear families of their own, and five of his sons were still living when he celebrated his "centennial," July 6, 1883, at which time he was in comparatively good health. Besides his sons there were present thirty-nine grandchildren, sixty-six great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. His children in order of birth were as follows : Christian, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Virginia in 1810, and had ten children. When his father celebrated his one hundredth birthday he had five children living, twenty-three grandchildren and two. great-grandchildren. He died in this county when about eighty years of age. George, Jr., the well- known miller at Ricky Point, had two children, one of whom is still living. Catherine became Mrs. Brubaker, of Preble county, Ohio, and died at the age of sixty, leaving five sons, who have twelve children altogether. John was the father of thirteen children and died in Indiana at the age of fifty-two years. Benjamin died at the age of sixty-two, leaving nine children. Emanuel died in Laketon, Indiana, leaving six children living, while six had previously passed away. Joseph. the youngest son and THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 231 last surviving member of the family, died at the old "Patriarchal Homestead," west of Springfield, on the National pike, in the spring of 1902. He was the father of six children. George Grisso, Sr., lived a quiet, peaceful life, and on his one hundredth birthday said that he had lived long enough and was ready to be taken home. He had no disease, and at the time of his death was seemingly a healthy man. He was temperate in labor, eating and drinking ; never used tobacco or tea and but very little coffee ; and he never used liquor as a beverage. but, as was the old custom, he kept his pure "bitters" on the shelf. John Grisso, the father of our subject. was born in this county in 1836 and in early life followed milling. He afterward turned his attention to farming. which he carried on in Clark county for a number of years, and in 1868 he went to Shelby county, Illinois, where he purchased a farm. On account of ill health. however, he was advised to return to Ohio, but he died in Bethel township soon after reaching the county of his nativity. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Weaver. and was born in this county in 1840, is still living. Her father, John Weaver, now deceased, was a veterinary surgeon and farmer and made his home in Pike and German townships. Mrs. Grisso is a resident of Springfield. By her marriage she became the mother of six children : Mary, the wife of D. S. Gordon. of Springfield ; J. Newton, of this review Ida, the wife of John Eversole, of Bethel township; Oros, who was a member of Battery E and was killed by the explosion of- a cannon at the unveiling of the monument at Gettysburg. Pennsylvania, in 1887; Oron, a twin brother of Orcs and now a farmer of Springfield township ; and Hester E., the wife of Dr. Frank Riegel, of Thackery, Ohio. The children all attended the district schools of Clark county and Hester E. and J. N. were students in the Olive Branch high school of Bethel township, while the subject of this review also pursued a business course in Valparaiso, Indiana. After the death of the father the widow remained with her family in this county until 1884 and since that time has lived in Springfield. J. Newton Grisso, of this review, vas provided with good educational privileges, as previously indicated. During his youth he worked for a short time as a farm hand and was afterward employed at quarrying until he had attained his majority. when he accepted a position as clerk in a grocery store in Tower Hill, Illinois, remaining in that state until 1883, when he became a clerk in the store of Stein & Tremont, of Springfield. Subsequently he entered into partnership with William Gordon and they conducted business for about a year. Later Mr. Grisso opened a store alone. and in 1887 he became a partner of John Troutman; this relation being maintained until 1891, when our subject sold his interest in the business and became a partner of D. S. Gordon. He has remained with the company through various changes, and since 1892 has been manager of the Spot Cash grocery, its success being largely due to his capable control and enterprise. On the 7th of April. 1891, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mr. Grisso vas married to Miss Alice Vordermark, who vas born there in 1871 and pursued a college course after completing her common school education. She also engaged in teaching in the neighborhood of Fort Wayne. By her marriage she has become the mother of two sons : John Palmer. born December 9, 1892 and 232 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Jay Newton. born February 2. 1894. Mr. Grisso votes independently at local elections, but supports the state and national candidates of the Democracy. He and his wife are charter members of the First Church of Christian Scientists and he belongs to Anthony Lodge, F. & A. M.. having been made a Mason in Illinois when twenty-one years of age. He is also a member of the Commercial Club and of the Springfield Grocers' Association. He represents a worthy and honored pioneer family, and, like his ancestors. he is interested in the work of improvement and development and has carried on the task which they begun by contributing to the general progress here. WILLIAM B. MOORES William B. Moores is the resident superintendent of The Moores Lime Company and in this capacity is conducting an excellent business at Springfield. He was born in Springfield township, Hamilton county, Ohio, October 5, 1869. His father, John B. C. Moores, also a native of that county, was born in 1844 and was a son of William B. Moores. Sr., who was the original conductor and owner of the business now carried on by our subject. having established it in the early '60s. He was a resident of Cincinnati. Ohio. and was a prominent and influential man. He died in 1870, at which time John B. C. Moores assumed control of the enterprise in behalf of his mother. Later he and his brother. H. H. Moores, conducted the business until the latter purchased the interests of his brother in 1890. In that year a new company, known as The Moores Lime Company. was organized. and in 1895 the business was incorporated. During the past twelve years our subject has been the resident manager at Springfield, while F. Lawson Moores, who resides in Cincinnati, is the president of the company. The father of our subject was united in marriage to Caroline A. Lawson, who was reared in Cincinnati, is a graduate of the Glendale Female Seminary and now makes her home in her native city. She is a daughter of Fenton Lawson, who was the first man to introduce gas into Cincinnati. that being in the early '40s. He established a metal business there about 1823 and the enterprise has gradually grown until it is now one of the largest of the kind in the city. It is still in possession of the family, being controlled by F. H. Lawson. an uncle of our subject. Fenton Lawson was one of fifty men who left Cincinnati and established the city of Glendale, and both he and William B. Moores, Sr., the paternal grandfather of our subject. became residents of that place. His death occurred in the early '50s. The Lawsons are a very distinguished people in Cincinnati, prominent in both business and social circles. They have contributed in no small degree to the commercial prosperity and upbuilding of that city and other portions of the state and have also advanced the social and intellectual status. The parents of our subject also became residents of Glendale and there the father died in 1894. since which time the mother has returned to Cincinnati. They were the parents of three children : F. Lawson. who is married and resides in Ciincinnati Florence, the wife of George S. Keck, of that city, by whom she has three children and William B., of this review. In the public schools of Hamilton county William B. Moores pursued his education. THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 233 and at the age of eighteen years he entered into the lime business with his uncle and father, with whom he was associated for two years. In 1890 he joined his father and brother in the organization of The Moores Lime Company, which five years later was incorporated. Since that time Mr. Moores has been a resident of Springfield. personally superintending the conduct of the business from that point. In 1895 he began doing-a retail business in all kinds of building material, with offices located at the corner of Linden avenue and Washington street. The quarries of the company are at Durbin station and a wholesale business is carried on on a very extensive plan, large shipments being made throughout Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio, while an extensive retail trade is conducted in both Cincinnati and Springfield. One hundred and twenty-five men are employed at the quarries in getting out stone and the product is such as finds a ready sale on the market. All kinds of building materials of a. high grade are also handled and the business has increased annually until the output now brings a very gratifying and satisfactory financial return. In the county of his nativity, in 1894, Mr. Moores wedded Miss Leila Huston, who was born in Butler county. Ohio, a daughter of David and Emily Huston, prominent people of that locality. Mrs. Moores is a graduate of Glendale College and is a most highly esteemed lady. They now have three children. William Huston, John S. L. and Emily Caroline. Their home is at No. 48 Park Place. Mrs. Moores is a member of the Presbyterian church to the support of which her husband contributes liberally. He belongs to the Commercial Club and votes with the Republican party when questions of state and national importance are involved, and at local elections casts his ballot regardless of party affiliations. Throughout his entire business career he has been connected with one line of business activity. This concentration of his energies has enabled him to gain a. thorough and accurate knowledge of the business in every detail and department and his comprehensive understanding and unremitting diligence have been the means of building up an enterprise of importance. All trade transactions have been conducted with strict regard to commercial ethics and therefore the house bears a reputation which is commendable and worthy of emulation. RICHARD THOMAS KELLEY. Richard Thomas Kelley is engaged in blacksmithing in Green township and his life of earnest toil, characterized by fairness in his dealings, has made him a respected citizen of his community. He was born in Springfield township, near Beatty. November 24, 1843, and is a son of William C. and Miranda C. (Dudley) Kelley. The father was also born in this county and represents one of its pioneer families. The first of the name to come to America was James Kelley, who was born in Scotland and crossed the broad Atlantic to the new world in 1773. accompanied by a younger brother, John Kelley. He settled in Monongalia county, Virginia. where he was married and followed farming. At the time when the colonists attempted to throw off the yoke of British oppression he joined the American army and served under Washington at Valley Forge. The suffering endue ed by the American heroes at that place has be- 234 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. come a matter of history. Mr. Kelley's face, ears and head were frozen there, but with courageous spirit he and his fellow soldiers endured their sufferings for the cause of liberty. When American independence was achieved he was united in marriage to Catherine Stuart, of Virginia. She was of Scotch-Irish ancestry. The young couple removed to Fleming county, Kentucky, and in the year 1808 came to Clark county, Ohio. They were the great-grandparents of our subject. Joseph Kelley, the grandfather, was born in Monongalia county, West Virginia, and in Kentucky was united in marriage to Miss Mary Detrow. In 1813 they became prominent residents of Clark county. although Mrs. Kelley had visited the county the previous year, while her husband was serving as a soldier in the war of 1812. William C. Kelley. the father of our subject, was here horn on the 28th of January, 1820, and in his youth he learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed for a number of years in Green and Springfield town- ships. Later in life he purchased of his father fifty-seven acres of land and began farming, carrying on that pursuit throughout the remainder of his business career. Although reared in the Democratic faith he endorsed the Whig party on attaining his majority, and when the Republican party sprang into existence he joined the latter organization and continued thereafter to follow its banners. A devoted and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church he took an active part in its work and served as class leader. Sunday-school superintendent and church trustee and steward. He died October 11, 1901, at the very advanced age of eighty-one years, and thus passed away one of the honored pioneer settlers of Clark county, who for many years had been a witness of the changes which had occurred. the transformation which had been wrought. and the progress which had led to the substantial development and prosperity of this section of the state. In the family of William C. and Miranda C. ( Dudley) Kelley were ten children, of whom our subject is the eldest, and four sons and two daughters are yet living : Lavina is the wife of James B. Toland and resides in Jewell county. Kansas ; Frances Asbery is married and is living in Lyon county, Kansas ; George is a resident farmer of Urbana, Ohio; Martha Ann is the wife of William Baldwin of Madison township. Clark county ; and James Edwin is living in Green township. If one could draw back the curtains of the years that cover the boyhood of our subject he would find a little lad standing before his father's forge blowing the bellows in the blacksmith shop. He was so sMall that he had to stand on a block in order to reach the pole and his stature was 'also heightened in the same way when he began swinging the hammer. It will thus be seen that his early youth was one of toil. When he was fourteen years of age his father abandoned blacksmithing and turned his attention to farming, so that Mr. Kelly of this review had a change of work. He took his place in the fields and was employed on the home farm until twenty-one years of age. when he began working at the blacksmith's trade on his own account and has since followed that pursuit. being for thirty-five years situated at his present location. r Many of his present patrons have been with him throughout this period. It is a noticeable fact in his career that when he once secures the patronage of a person he has no difficulty in retaining it. This is due to his excellent workmanship, his promptness and his earn- THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 235 est desire to please, and through the exercise of his business ability and his unremitting diligence he has gained a comfortable competence which is well merited. On the 24th of October. 1867, Mr. Kelly was married to Miss Mary Jane Smith, of Springfield township, in which locality she was born. Their union has been blessed with eight children : Ida Elnora, the wife of S. O. Rush, of Springfield. by whom she has one child, Kenneth ; Leo Rush : Forrest Elmer ; Charles O. ; Elsie R., the wife of John Anderson, of Springfield. by whom she has one child, Roland R. ; William Earl ; Gamin Chester ; and Zoe Goldie. Mr. Kelley cast his first presidential vote for Grant in 1868, and has since endorsed Republican principles and voted for the men and measures of the party. He was elected and served for nine consecutive years as justice of the peace and after an interval of six years was again elected to that position. He has tried many cases and, of the seven cases which have been appealed, his decision has been reversed in only one instance and that because of new evidence which was introduced. He has performed a number of marriage ceremonies and was a candidate for the nomination for county infirmary director in 1902. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church, is a class leader, Sunday-school superintendent and licensed exhorter. He has assisted in holding many revival meetings and is most earnest and zealous in his church work. He belongs to Springfield Lodge. No. 33. I. O. O. F., and for twentvfive years he has been the correspondent for the Press-Republic. his articles, over the initials R. T., becoming quite noted. He gathered the data for the history of the Kelley family, which was published in 1900 by Oliver S. Kelley, of Springfield. During leisure hours he has also written some. poetry and various poems have appeared in the Press-Republic. He is a gentleman of strong mentality, of wide reading and is a deep thinker, and his influence in the intellectual and moral development of his section of Clark county has been an important one. FRANK L. HATFIELD. Frank L. Hatfield, who recently founded a tailoring establishment and has already won favor with the public, commanding for himself a place as a representative business man of Springfield, was born in Wyoming county, Pennsylvania, May 12, 1867. His father, William Hatfield, was born in New Jersey and is now living retired in this city at the age of sixty-seven years, making his home with his son Frank. The mother, Mrs. Mary E. Hatfield, died in Pennsylvania in 1897, at the age of fifty-five years. They had but two children, and the daughter, Olivia, died in Boston, Massachusetts. The birthplace of our subject was on a farm which had been cleared and improved by his maternal grandfather, but when Mr. Hatfield was only about two years of age his parents removed from Wyoming county to Pittston, Pennsylvania, where he was reared. At the age of sixteen he began earning his own living by learning the trade of a coat-maker and tailor in this city. When he had completed his apprenticeship he was employed as a journeyman for a time, working as an experienced cutter in various places, his term of service extending from a few months to four years. He finally came to Ohio and followed his trade, locating in 236 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Springfield in 1898. He accepted the position of cutter with Bruce & Pursell. and after eighteen months, upon the death of Mr. Bruce, he succeeded to a partnership in the business, the firm of Pursell & Hatfield being formed. After a year he sold his interest, however, but continued in the house as a cutter for six months. He then withdrew and began business for himself in March, 1901, locating in the Johnson building on East High street. In the spring of 1902 he removed to his present location. His store is fitted up in a model manner and he employs only experienced workmen. so that the garments sent out from his establishment give uniform satisfaction. He is always courteous and obliging, reliable and honest and has therefore won a large patronage, although he has been in business alone for only about a year and a half. He is fast gaining a reputation for conducting an up-to-date establishment and his trade is increasing rapidly. He has given his personal attention to every detail .of the business and he buys direct from the wholesale houses, making semi-annual trips to the east in order to purchase goods and get new styles. He has a thorough practical acquaintance with all branches of the business and is thus capable of directing the labors of those whom he employs. His store is adorned with pictures of his own designing and he carries a high grade of goods and has a select patronage. In Trumanburg, New York, in September. 1890, Mr. Hatfield was married to Miss Elizabeth M. Harneston, who was educated in an academy of the Empire state. They have three children : Elma Hermione, Ethel Winifred and Vernon LeRoy. In church and charitable matters Mr. Hatfield is found as a liberal supporter. al though not connected in membership with any religious organization. He is quite prominent and popular in fraternal circles, being a member of Friendship Lodge, No. 153. F. & A. M.. of Owego, New York ; New Jerusalem Chapter, No. 47, R. A. M., of Owego: Palestine Commanders, K. T.. of Springfield: and Antioch Temple of the Mystic Shrine in Dayton. He was made a Mason when twenty-one years of age. He also belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, to the Commercial Club, to the Matinee Gentlemen's Driving Club, to the Springfield Gun Club, and to the Columbian Republican Club. The last named is indicative of his political views. He and his estimable wife, who is a lady of culture and refinement, have a pleasant home at No. 344 Woodlawn avenue, which is noted for its hospitality and good cheer. The strong qualities of Mr. Hatfield's nature have made him popular with many friends, while in his business career he has gained success by indomitable energy, his skill and integrity in the line of his chosen pursuit. When he embarked in business here he had strong competition to work against, but his capability, determination and evident fairness in all trade transactions have won for him the favorable opinion of the public and a fair share of public patronage. GUSTAVUS S. FOOS. There are no rules for building characters there is no rule for achieving success. The man who can rise from the ranks to a position of eminence is he who can see and utilize the opportunities that surround his path. The essential conditions of human THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 239 life are ever the same, the surroundings of individuals differ but slightly; and when one man passes another on the highway to reach the goal of prosperity before others who perhaps start out before him it is because he has the power to use advantages which probably compass the whole human race. For more than a half century among the most prominent business men of Ohio stood Gustavus S. Foos, and his name. at once brings to mind accomplishments of great value. The history of such .a man can not fail to be of widespread interest, for he ranked high in commercial and industrial circles, and furthermore, he proved that accomplishment depends upon the man, and not upon inheritance, or upon influential environments. Starting out in early boyhood upon his own account, he worked his way steadily upward and in the face of difficulties and obstacles he progressed and gained for himself not only wealth but an honorable name. Gustavus S. Foos was born in Columbus. Ohio, July 8. 1818, representing one of the pioneer families of this state. His father, General Joseph Foos. was born in Kentucky, while the mother was a native of Virginia and removed to Ohio at a very early date. When the country became engaged in the second war with England General Foos entered the army, serving with distinction as a defender of his country. He gained prominence in civil affairs in his adopted state and for twenty-one years was a member of the Ohio legislature, and his labors and influence were very effective in promoting some of the most important legislation that has established the policy of this great .c omm onw ea 1 th . Mr. Foos of this review was reared in the usual manner of farmer lads. early ac- quiring habits of industry, economy and honesty, which proved the foundation upon which he reared the superstructure of his prosperity in later years. His preliminary education, acquired in the public schools, was supplemented by one year's study in the high school of Springfield, entering that institution at the age of sixteen years. The west attracted him and he then left home, going to Illinois, where he was engaged in farming and in trade pursuits, but after three years he returned to his native state, settling in Logan county, Ohio, where he secured employment in the store of his brother, William Foos, who was a resident of Springfield, but is now deceased. After three years experience as a salesman, he, in partnership with his brother, Lewis, purchased the store and for several years successfully conducted the 'business. He then disposed of his interest to his brother. Lewis Foos. The year 1848 witnessed the arrival of Gustavus S. Foos in Springfield. Here he joined his brother William in the ownership and conduct of the store and from the formation of the partnership the business steadily increased until it reached mammoth proportions, being second to none in the city. A man of resourceful business ability, Mr. Foos did not confine his efforts to one line. He was quick to note, appreciate and improve opportunities. He saw that Springfield had a bright future and had faith in its rapid and permanent growth, so that in 1848 he and his brother purchased fifty acres of land, which they laid out in town lots. now forming the best residence district of the city. In 1858 they sold their mercantile business and the subject of this review turned his attention to the stock business, purchasing a tract of land in Illinois which 240 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. he greatly improved. Another field of business activity claimed his attention in 1838 and he and his brother opened a broker's office in Springfield. In the meantime he had disposed of his land in Illinois at a much advanced price, and also disposed of his stock business. Another enterprise of value to the city owed its origin to William and Gustavus Foos, who in 1860 established a private bank in Springfield that later became the Second National Bank, with William Foos as its president and Gustavus S. Foos as cashier. The confinement of the bank, however, was not to his liking, and in 1862 he resigned his position as cashier, although he still remained a stockholder in the institution. The next important industry claiming his attention was the purchase and sale of wool, and with his usual determination and ability he soon rose to the front in this line and became the largest wool buyer in this section of Ohio. His Lusiness interests in various lines prospered as the years passed by until the country became involved in financial panic in 1873, when, with many others of the best business men throughout the land, he lost his entire fortune. Such a misfortune would have utterly discouraged many a man of a less resolute spirit. Mr. Foos was then fifty-seven years of age, with a family about him. He bravely faced the situation, however, looked over the business field and summoned all his energy and strength to meet conditions. Associated with his two sons, he began the manufacture of wringers in a small way, and the business capability of the firm, their resolution, their honorable .dealing and the excellent quality of the commodity which they placed upon the market soon. wrought a change in the prospects of the new house and their sales continually increased, and as their financial resources were thus augmented they extended the field of their operations until they became well known as manufacturers of agricultural implements, and this industry reached successful and extensive proportions. It was in 1884 that Gustavus Foos disposed of his interests in agricultural implement manufacturing and with his two sons organized the Foos Manufacturing Company, of which he became the president, while Robert H. Foos was vice-president, and William F. Foos treasurer. They began the manufacture of grinding mills and portable forges and from the beginning met with gratifying success in the new undertaking, which in the course of a few years became one of the largest and most important industries in the city. The father was a man of excellent ability, keen foresight and sound judgment. He possessed, moreover, unfaltering courage and determination and throughout his long carter he maintained a reputation. that has ever made his an honored name in trade circles. On the 28th of June, 1849, was celebrated the marriage of Gustavus S. Foos and Miss Elizabeth Houston, a daughter of Dr. Robert Houston, of South Charleston, Clark county, Ohio. Two sons were born unto them, Robert H. and William F., who became associated with their father in business, and since the death of their father they have conducted the large enterprise and met the demands of their constantly growing trade. Mr. Foos was a man of domestic tastes, his interest centering in his family, yet he found time to faithfully perform his duties of citizenship and was always ready to co- operate in any movement for the general THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 241 good. During the dark clays of the Rebellion the administration at Washington had no more stalwart friend or supporter than Gustavus S. Foos. He was elected a member of the county executive committee and crave liberally of his time and means for the preservation of the Union. In early life he had been a 'Whig, but when the Republican party was formed to prevent the further extension of slavery he joined its ranks and was ever afterward one of its stanch adherents. The Forty-fourth Ohio Regiment was largely organized as the result of his efforts and his financial aid. It came into existence at a time when public confidence was somewhat shaken, owing to the prolonged war and the great loss of life on both sides, so that few had strong faith in the ultimate success of the Union arms, but Mr. Foos. in connection with John Minnick, a worthy and wealthy citizen, gave his personal guarantee that all claims against the regiment for provisions would be paid by them, if not accepted by the government, and they also agreed to see that the families of those enlisting should be cared for. This agreement was carried out, both in the letter and in the spirit, and many a soldier's home was made brighter by the substantial assistance which he rendered to the .family. On the 11th of July, 1900, death came to Mr. Foos. He had attained the ripe old age of eighty-two years. In his character there was something he obtained in the primitive schools where he was educated and in his early farming experiences, something that might be termed solidity of purpose, and which is a characteristic worthy of emulation. His school privileges were meager. yet in the school of experience he had learned lessons that made him a well in- formed man, broad-minded and liberal in his views and with a charity that reached out to all humanity. CHARLES A. GASSER. A fact of which clue recognition is not usually accorded in connection with the commercial history of Springfield, is that to no foreign element is its development due in so large a measure as to those who have had their nativity in or trace their lineage to the great empire of Germany. Among those who left the fatherland to identify themselves with American life and institutions, who have pushed themselves to the front and are a credit alike to the land of their birth and that of their adoption, is Charles A. Gasser, now a successful grocer of Springfield, located at No. 238 Clifton street. He has made his home in the city since 1889 and when his labor had brought him capital large enough to enable him to begin business on his own account, he established a small store, which has since grown until it is now one of the leading grocery houses of this city. Mr. Gasser was born in Baden, Germany, January 18, 1867, and is one of two sons. His brother John, older than he, came to America about 1889, locating in Buffalo, New York, and is now in the employ of the Erie Railroad shops at that place. Both parents died in Germany. In the schools of the fatherland our subject pursued his education and when fourteen years of age he began earning his own living. He spent one year in Italy and was also in Switzerland and Austria, being employed in the different hotels as an experienced waiter. 242 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. He has traveled all over Europe and has a broad knowledge of the old world, its peoples and their manners and customs. At the age of twenty he determined to come to America, and in 1887 first visited Springfield, but did not make a permanent location at that time. Going to Cincinnati he was there employed in hotels for twenty months, after which he returned to this city and pursued a course in Nelson's Business College, feeling the need of further educational training as a preparation for the responsible duties of business life. He then purchased a small grocery business of Luther Smith, located at the corner of Clifton and Taylor streets, where he remained four and a half years. He secured a new stock of goods and afterward removed to No. 211 Clifton street, where he spent the succeeding six years. He then purchased a lot at No. 238 Clifton street and erected there a building suitable for his business. He now carries a large line of staple and fancy groceries and provisions. When he began business for himself he had a cash capital of only four hundred dollars. His trade, however, has increased many fold and he has substantially enlarged his stock to meet the growing demands of the business until he now has a splendidly appointed grocery store and is enjoying a profitable trade. Mr. Gasser was married in Springfield, Ohio, in 1895 to Carrie Pfeiffer, who was born in this city in 1868, a daughter of Charles Pfeiffer, who for about twenty-five years was foreman for Mast, Foos & Com- pang. Mrs. Gasser pursued her education in the public schools of this city and by her marriage has become the mother of two daughters, Lillian and Eliza. The parents hold membership in Zion's Lutheran church and Mr. Gasser votes with the Republican party on questions of state and national importance, but at local elections casts his ballot independently. He belongs to the Springfield Mannerchor and to the Springfield Grocers' Association. He is a self-made man whose success has been gained through good management and business judgment. and from the age of fourteen he has depended upon his own resources for a living. He realizes that there is no royal road to wealth and that the surest way to gain prosperity is through indefatigable industry. Therefore he has given close attention to his business. considering no detail too unimportant to claim his attention. and his energy has brought to him a very desirable competence. PERRY M. STEWART. On the roster of county officials in Clark county is the name of Perry M. Stewart. more familiarly known as Pearl M. Stewart, and public commendation is given him for capability as the county treasurer, for in the exercise of his duties in the office of trust which he so ably fills. his prompt. systematic and thoroughly reliable methods have won recognition. As the family name indicates he comes of Scotch ancestry. He was born in Green township. Clark county, July 6. 1866. and his father, Perry Stewart, was born in the same township. June 6. 1818. The grandfather, John T. Stewart. was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, and in 1806 came to Clark county, being one of the first settlers in Green township. where he opened up a farm and took an active part in the pioneer development of this portion of the state. THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 243 Throughout the first half of the last century he witnessed the growth and improvement of Clark county and passed away in the year 1850. In his family were ten children, of whom one daughter died in early childhood. Samuel passed away in 1892, and Mrs. David Anderson died in 1901. The living members of the family are: Perry, the father of our subject ; Elder R., a miller by trade, who makes his home with his daughter, Mrs. L. B. Corry ; Charles, who is living retired in Springfreld; James M., who served as probate judge for six years and is living in Xenia. Ohio; Thomas E., of Clifton, Ohio ; Oscar N.. who resides in Plattsburg ; and William C., who is now living retired in Springfreld. All of the members of the family were reared upon the home farm and only two of them ever turned from agricultural pursuits to enter other branches of life. Perry Stewart. the father of our subject. pursued his studies in the district schools of his native township and on entering a business career followed the occupation to which he had been reared. He carried on farm work successfully until 1893, when he removed to Springfield, where he is now living retired. He is a well preserved man of eighty-four years and a venerable gentleman, honored and respected by all who know him. Prominent in public affairs his fellow townsmen called him to represent Clark county in the state legislature, where he served during the sessions of 1868 and 1869. For six years he was also county commissioner and was an active party worker, doing everything in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of Republican principles. He married Rhoda Wheeler. who was born in Clark county December 30, 1824, and is still traveling life's journey with her husband. Their marriage was blessed with ten children, of whom one died at the age of four years, but the other nine are still living, as follows : Harriet, the wife of James Hatfield, who resides near Clifton, Ohio ; Julia, the wife of R. N: Elder, living near Selma, Clark county ; David W., who was a soldier of the Civil war and is also living in Clark county ; John T., an electrician of Greencastle, Indiana ; Mary E., who is the widow of Samuel Kerr and makes her home in Washington, D. C.; Charles F., who resides near Pitchin, Clark county ; Jane E.. the wife of George Nicholson of Springfield ; Perry M., of this review ; and E. Wheeler, who is living on the home farm. The children were provided with good educational advantages, attending the district schools of Green township and afterward continuing their education in the schools of Antioch and Lebanon. At the time of the Civil war the father manifested his loyalty to the government by entering the Union army. He and his wife are faithful members of the Christian church. Under the parental roof Perry M. Stewart of this review spent the days of his childhood and after acquiring his preliminary education in the district schools pursued an elective course in Antioch Colege. Subsequently he took charge of the home farm, which he managed for a few years, and then for a few years he was employed in a general store in Selma. He was afterward appointed as deputy county auditor, serving from 1893 to 1895 and in 1897 he was appointed deputy county treasurer, acting in that capacity until elected to the office of treasurer in 1901. He has since filled the position and was recently nominated for the second term, a fact which indicates that his 244 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. has been a capable service and that he has won the confidence and endorsement of the public. On the 16th of October, 1901, Mr. Stewart was united in marriage to Irene B. Black, a daughter of Charles R. Black, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Ross county, Ohio. She is a graduate of South Salem Seminary. Both Mr. and Mrs. Stewart are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and he belongs to Clark Lodge, No. 101, F. & A. M.; Springfield Chapter, No. 48, R. A. M. ; Springfield Council, No. f7, R. & S. M.; and is a member of the Commercial Club of this city. He has made his home in Springfield since appointed to the position of deputy auditor. In political circles he is prominent, and his convictions carry weight in the local councils of the Republican party. He has frequently served as a delegate to county and congressional conventions and believes most firmly in the party as best calculated to promote the nation's welfare. The Stewart family is an old and prominent one in Clark county, having been established here through almost an entire century. The record is creditable, for representatives of the name have ever been honorable and worthy citizens, and the history of Perry M. Stewart, the efficient county treasurer, acids new luster to the honored family name. MARCUS A. HATFIELD. It is always a pleasure to see true merit suitably rewarded, to behold the prosperity of those who eminently deserve it, as does the subject of this review. At an early age he learned one of the great lessons of life— that there is no royal road to wealth,—and as he was not above work he toiled industriously until he has won not only a snug little fortune but also the esteem and confidence of the people with whom he has been associated for many years. Work, the true friend of mankind. has developed his latent resources and brought out the strong self-reliant force of his character. He is widely known as a merchant of Pitchin and is controlling there a constantly growing business. Mr. Hatfield was born in Green township. Clark county, April 1, 1839, his parents being John and Eva (Garlough) Hatfield. The father was born in Henry county, Virginia, and the mother in Maryland. The former came to Ohio with his father, Nathaniel Hatfield, in 1806. The family home was established in Springfield township. The mother of our subject also came to Clark county with her father, John Garlough, who located in Green township, and when they had reached adult age the young couple were married in this county. They became the parents of twelve children, five of whom are still living. During his boyhood days Marcus A. Hatfield received a fair common school education and was about twenty years of age when he began to earn his own living by the operation of rented land. In August, 1861, he enlisted in Company G of Burgess' Western Sharp Shooters and saw duty in west Missouri. In 1862 this regiment became the Fourteenth Missouri Infantry, and after the battle of Shiloh, in which Mr. Hatfield took part, it became the Sixty-sixth Regiment of Illinois Volunteers. He was at Fort Don-nelson, Fort Henry, Corinth and Atlanta and also went with Sherman on the famous march to the sea, which proved that the THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 245 strength of the Confederacy had been drawn from from the interior to defend the borders. He afterward went from Carolina to Washington, where he marched in grand review through the streets of the capital city—one of the great victorious host that had preserved the Union. In the Atlanta cam- paign he was hit by a spent ball on the left knee. After the battle of Shiloh he was taken ill and was ordered to go to the hospital, but would not go, remaining with his company on the field of duty. He was in the service for almost four years, throughout which period he was found as a faithful defender of the Union cause, always at his post of duty. When the war was over Mr. Hatfield returned to Clark county and engaged in farm, ing until his father y died in 1883, when eighty-five years of age, his birth having occurred in 1799. The mother had died in 1881, at the age of eighty-one years. For some years Mr. Hatfield was in poor health, but he continued his farm work with resolute spirit. In 1888 he purchased a store in Pitchin and has since been located here, doing a good business as an enterprising merchant. A Republican in politics, Mr. Hatfield cast his first presidential ballot for Abraham Lincoln in 1860. He has twice assessed the township and for many years has served as treasurer of the township, being the incumbent of the office at the present time. He was appointed postmaster of Pitchin under President Harrison and continued in the position during a period of President Cleveland's administration. He then retired and was afterward appointed by President McKinley. He has supported his party as a delegate to various conventions. including the state convention. and has been a mem ber of the central committee for several years. He belongs to Mitchell Post, No. 45, G. A. R., and in 1893 he visited the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Mr. Hatfield takes an active interest in political affairs and in all matters pertaining to general progress and improvement and is a worthy type of an enterprising merchant of Ohio. JOHN F. WYANT. Nature seemed to have designed that the strenuous duties of business life should be borne by man, while woman should attend to the lighter tasks of the household. The history of business activity is therefore largely the record of the men who are important factors in industrial, commercial and professional circles. One who was well known in this connection in Springfield was John Franklin Wyant, who became a well known contractor in the building of roads and pikes. Indefatigable and energetic, he successfully conducted his business interests until his life's labors were ended in death. Mr. Wyant was born on the old family homestead in Moorefield township, Clark county, October 21, 1855, and was therefore forty-six years of age when called to his final rest on the 31st of December, 1901. He was a son of Jonas and Susan Wyant and in the district schools near his home he acquired his early education which was supplemented by two years' study in the Ur- bana high school. r He continued to live with his parents for two or three years thereafter, working upon the home farm, and then turned his attention to contract work in the building of roads and pikes in New 246 - THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Moorefield and adjoining townships. In March, 1885. he removed to Springfield and with that city as his headquarters he continued his work as a contractor, doing much work on Springfield's streets. He also did similar work in Dayton for a time and executed some contracts awarded him by the Big Four Railroad Company. He was quite prosperous in his chosen field of labor, so managing his business affairs that his services were of value to the public and at the same time profitable to himself. On the 21st of June, 1884, Mr. Wyant was married to Miss Minnie Bumcrat, a native of Moorefield township and a daughter of William and Nancy E. Bumcrat, the former now deceased, while the mother is yet living. Four children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Wyant : Grace, Floyd, Inez and John. For nearly thirty years our subject was a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity, connected with both the lodge and the uniformed rank. His political support was given the Democracy, but his business left him little time to seek public office even had he so desired. In religious belief he was a Methodist and died in that faith, his remains being interred in the cemetery at New Moorefield. His record ended, the world's judgment upon it was a favorable one. He had not only w0n success in busi- ness by well directed effort and close application, but had also gained a reputation for straightforward dealing that made his an honorable and honored name. WILLIAM HENRY BERGER. William Henry Berger is one of the best known citizens of Springfield township, highly intelligent. and a useful member of the community. He was born in Heidelburg township, Berks county, Pennsylvania, January 21, 1830, and is a son of Daniel and Esther (Body) Berger, who were natives of the same county. Henry Berger, the father of the last named, was a native of Germany and became the founder of the family in America, establishing his home in Pennsylvania, where he spent his remaining days. The grandfather of our subject resided in the Keystone state throughout his entire life, while Daniel Berger was there born and reared, and in his native county was married. In his youth he learned the trades of a brick and stone mason and of a plasterer, and followed these pursuits for many years. In the spring of 1838, accompanied by his wife and five children, he left Berks county, Pennsylvania, and traveled overland with team and wagon to Clark county, being four weeks in making the trip. He located in Springfield township when the city of Springfield was but a hamlet. He first occupied a vacant house in Lagonda, and after renting it and establishing his family therein he began a search for work, and also sought a farm which he desired to purchase. After a month he bought one hundred and thirty-three acres of land, for which he paid sixteen and two-third dollars per acre, and the log building which then stood upon the place was occupied by him for two years. It was covered with clapboards, rived by hand and held in place by heavy poles. In this primitive pioneer cabin the family lived for two years and then the father erected a substantial brick residence. In course of time he also built good barns and other buildings which are found upon a modern farm, and placed his land under a high state of cultivation. His educational privileges in youth had been limited THE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 249 to six months' attendance in the public schools, but he was always fond of reading and through this means r he became a well informed man and 'kept in touch with the advanced thought and progress of the times. He and his wife were members of the German Reformed church while in Pennsylvania, but after coming to Ohio placed their membership in the United Brethren church. Mrs. Berger was, like her husband, a native of Berks county. Pennsylvania, and her fa- ther, Henry Body, was born in that state, where he spent his entire life as a farmer. They were married April 12, 1818.   Mr. Berger, the father of our subject, died May i9, 1878. at the advanced age of eighty-four years, and his wife passed away August 31, 1881. when she had reached the age of about eighty-four, her remains then being interred by the side of her husband in the Newcomer cemetery. They had lived together in the holy bonds of matrimony for sixty years their mutual love and confidence increasing as time passed by. Unto them were born the following children: Eliza, born August 11, 1819, died in December, 1825; Mary, born December 22, 1821, died March 30, 1825: Catherine, who was born November 27. 1824. became the wife of E. Suver, and died in Illinois, May 24, 1889 ; Sarah, born October 9. 1827, married W. J. Shuey, the manager of the United Brethren Publishing House, and died June 27, 1901 ; William H. is the fifth of the family ; Daniel, who was born October 14, 1832, and now resides in Dayton, is a minister of the United Brethren church and for a number of years edited the church and Sunday-school papers for that denomination; and Ellen, born December 13, 1834, died July 10, 1843.   William H. Berger of this review was   - 13 -   only eight years of age when he came to Clark county with his parents. As he gained strength and stature he assisted more and more largely in the work of the home farm, being thus employed through the summer months, while for three months during the winter he pursued his education in the district schools. Fond of books, he devoted all his leisure time to reading and study, and afterward, to his great delight, he was allowed to attend the high school of Springfield for one term. Before he was twenty-one years of age he began teaching in Moorefield township in the Hunter district and for twenty-six years he followed that profession, being for eighteen years a teacher in the Lagonda school. During most of this time he taught only during the winter months, while in the 'summer he carried on farm work. In 1866 he bought the old home farm, on which two years before he had made good and substantial improvements, but these were destroyed by fire in March, 1899. Since then he has rebuilt and now has a beautiful home, lying partly within the city limits. He has laid out two additions to the city, known as Berger's first and second additions.   On the 18th of March, 1852, occurred the marriage of Mr. Berger and Miss Mary J. Jackson, who was born January 11, 1830, in Loudoun county, Virginia, a daughter of John and Mary Jackson, who were also natives of Virginia, where they died. Mrs. Berger afterward was brought to Clark county by her uncle, William Moore, when seven years of age. Unt0 our subject and his wife have been born five children: Daniel Franklin, born March 24, 1853, died November 1, 1855; John Mortimer, born October 5, 1856, is living in Springfield; Elizabeth Ann, born October 8, 1858, is the wife