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1048 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. GREEN TOWNSHIP JAMES ANDERSON, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Clifton. or more than half a century Mr. Anderson has been identified with the business interests of Clark County, being one of those men whose labors have been crowned with financial success, and his life has been characterized by that earnestness in all his affairs that makes it a success in every phase. He was born at Milnacraig, Scotland, July 22, 1815, and at the age of 4 years, emigrated with his father, James Anderson, to the United States, settling on "Clark Run," in Greene Co., Ohio, where they lived five years; removing thence to Clark County, and locating on the northwest part of Sec. 27, on the old Clifton road. In 1827, his father removed to a farm in Sec. 33, which he had purchased, and there resided until his death, in 1864, at the advanced age of 84 years. The subject of this sketch grew up under the paternal roof, and his education was obtained in the log schoolhouse of the primitive days, to which he added that more practical and serviceable education that comes from experience with the world, and gives more certainty of success in life. For ten years he owned an interest in a stock of merchandise at Clifton, and from a life of industry, temperance, economy and good management, he has accumulated a considerable property in Green Township, Springfield and Greene County. As a neighbor and citizen, he is highly esteemed, being generally chosen as the arbiter of differences among the people of his vicinity. Politically, a Republican, and a member of the Presbyterian Church, he has held, among other public trusts, the office of Township Clerk for twelve years, and been Justice of the Peace the same length of time, discharging every duty to the entire satisfaction of the people and with honor to himself. GEORGE ELDER, farmer; P. O. Clifton ; was born in this township January, 1839. His early years were spent on the farm. and his only means of education was that of the common schools of his neighborhood. At the age of 22, when his country was in the throes of civil war, he volunteered and entered the 16th Ohio Militia, and GREEN TOWNSHIP. - 1049 afterward served three years in Co. A, 94th O. V. I., of which he was Orderly-Sergeant. During this period he was at Chickamauga, Stone River and on other fields of blood, and was with Sherman "to the sea." The war over, he was honorably discharged and settled in Jackson County, Kan., in the business of stock-raising, but that climate and occupation disagreeing with him, in a short time he closed out his interests there and returned to his native township, than which a fairer or better rural district would be difficult to find. Since his return he has followed farming, and is the owner of a farm very pleasantly located, and in a good state of cultivation. His people have honored him with the offices of Trustee, Assessor and Township Treasurer, the last of which he now holds. In 1869, he married Miss Sarah Kitchen, daughter of Abraham Kitchen, an old settler and highly esteemed citizen. She departed this life in 1872, and in 1875 he was married to Miss Jane Duval, daughter of Lewis Duval, and there are, issue of this marriage, three children-one girl and twin boys-all of whom live. JAMES T. GARLOUGH, farmer and stock-grower; P. O. Springfield, Ohio; son of Jacob Garlough, deceased; was born in this township June 3, 1834. He grew to manhood upon the farm, and received the winter's schooling customarily given by farmers to their sons in those days. In 1856, he commenced farming for himself on his present farm of 147 1/2 acres, which he improved. March 6, 1856, he married Miss Sarah Jane, daughter of William Hause, (deceased) then of Madison Township. To this marriage eight surviving children were given-Clara, Mary H., Alva T., Sheridan G.. Alice, Jessie E., Willie F. and Robbie C. ; all except the first reside with their parents. EDWARD R. GARLOUGH, farmer and stock-raiser; P. 0. Springfield; son of Jacob Garlough ; was born in this township in 1836; raised to farm life upon his father's farm, he has always pursued it. In 1860, he commenced business for himself, when he purchased his present farm, then of 147 acres, adjoining a parcel of 75 acres he then owned. His farm now embraces 280 1/2 acres. January 12, 1860, he married Miss Eliza A. Williams, a very intelligent lady. There is issue of this marriage-Carlton, Wilber, John, Fred and Earl. In 1865, Mr. G. erected a barn, and in 1875 he erected a large residence. He and his wife are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church. His farm is in an excellent state of cultivation. JACOB HIESTAND, farmer; P. O. Springfield; a native of York Co., Penn., born in 1822; when a lad, he, with his parents, went to Lancaster Co., Penn., and in 1875 he came to this State, locating in Madison Township, where he purchased a farm, which he afterward sold, and bought the Jacob Poorman farm, in the west part of this township. His father dying during his infancy, he early learned to provide for himself, and thus was inculcated those lessons of industry and economy that have served him well in after years. In 1853, he married Miss Mary A. Brubaker, of Lancaster, Penn., by whom six children have been born-Henry, Capitola, Vandalia, McLellan, Flora and Lenora. Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of the German Reformed Church, and two of the children united with the Methodist. That Mr. H. understands farming is fully attested by the appearance and yield of his crops of the present year. EZRA C. HARRIS, physician and surgeon, Clifton; was born Sept. 28. 1844, in Harmony Township, this county. His father being a tradesman in limited circumstances, his early years were so trenched upon to aid in maintaining the family that his opportunities for education were greatly abridged. In August, 1862, he responded to his country's call for aid in arms, and enlisted as a private in Company I, 110th O. V. I; met the enemy at Winchester, Spottsylvania, the Wilderness, and other hotly-contested fields of blood, until April 10, 1865, when, having been disabled by several gun-shot wounds, he was honorably discharged and returned to civil life. Years of his life calculated by nature for education having been spent in arms in the service of his country, he now, on his return, attended a common school, taught by Prof. W. S. Grimm, in what is known as the Reed Schoolhouse. He next, during a period of four years, taught school in this and Champaign Counties, and then entered Wittenberg College, where he pursued his studies until the full expiration of the junior year. His parents having previously removed to Bellefontaine, Ohio, he 1050 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: located there and commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Pratt, under whom he studied one year, then took one course of lectures in Cincinnati Medical College, and completed his professional preparation and graduated in Columbus Medical College in the spring of 1876. He located and opened an office in Clifton, this county, where he has since remained; has built himself a commodious and neat residence and office, which evinces his industry, professional efficiency and success. On May 23, 1871, while a freshman in college, he was joined in marriage to Miss M. Belle, youngest daughter of Squire Anthony and Maria Wallace Bird, of Springfield Township, this county. The issue of this marriage is James Howard and Martha Mabel, aged respectively 7 and 4 years. EDMUND H. KEIFER, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Springfield. This gentleman comes of German origin, his great-grandfather, George Keifer, being a native of Germany, who settled in Maryland, where was born, in Washington County, Oct. 27, 1769, George Keifer, the grandfather of Edmund H., who was married to Margaret Hivner, a native of the same county, born July 24, 1772; this marriage occurred March 24, 1799, and the following children were the fruits of the union: Mary, Sarah, John, Catherine and George. The father of Edmund H. was John Keifer, who was born in Washington Co., Md., May 17, 1802, and who came with his parents, in 1812, to Clark Co., Ohio, settling in Bethel Township, his father purchasing a large tract of land, on which was born the noted Indian chief Tecumseh. On this farm was a cabin and a small clearing, and here John Keifer grew to manhood, his parents residing on this property until death. He mss married May 6, 1824, to Miss Elizabeth Donnels, daughter of Jonathan and Sarah Donnels, who were pioneers of Bethel Township, where Mrs. Sarah Keifer was born, March 19, 1804. Shortly after marriage, John Keifer bought out Donnels' heirs, and moved on to that farm, now known as the "Holcomb Limekiln Farm," and there remained until his father's death, when he sold it, and returned to the old homestead, which he purchased, and where he and his wife resided until death, he dying June 9, 1865, and his wife, June 29 of the same year. He was a Mason, a member of the I. O. O. F., and a Democrat all his life; was a General of militia, and a man of prominence in all the affairs of the county, and took an active interest in everything that he believed a benefit to the country at large. The subject of this sketch was born in Springfield Township, Feb. 19, 1838, and educated in the common schools of the county, following the vocation of a farmer all his life. He was married Jan. 11, 1859, to Miss Bethenia Miller, daughter of R. S. and Elizabeth (Shellebarger) Miller, of Mad River Township, where Mrs. Keifer was born, Jan. 1, 1842, of which union the following children are the issue: Anna M. (the wife of John T. Stewart), Lizzie D. and George S. Mrs. Keifer's father is a native of Pickaway Co., Ohio, and her mother of Clark County, the latter being deceased, and both belonged to the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Keifer was the fifth in a family of six children, the three youngest of whom are living, viz : John D. (residing in Missouri), Mary J. (the wife of R. S. Cross, of Topeka, Kan.), and himself. In the fall of 1865, he purchased his present farm of 225 acres, and, in the autumn of 1870, he erected a large, handsome residence, and has otherwise greatly improved the farm. Politically, he is an unswerving Democrat, and is considered one of the leading farmers of his township, being a man who is respected for his honesty and integrity of character, as well as many other traits that go to make a good neighbor and a worthy citizen. ABRAHAM KITCHEN, retired farmer. Few men are better known or more universally respected by the community in which they reside than the old pioneer whose name stands at the head of this sketch. He was born in Warren Co., Ohio, Nov. 19, 1808, and was the son of Stephen and Annie (Bercau) Kitchen. His mother dying when he was but 4 years old, he was cast among strangers to care and provide for him. In a country where means were limited, his lot was a hard one, and his early life full of vicissitudes and privations. He, however, had the good fortune to attend school in early boyhood, where he obtained fragments of an elementary education. In 1818, he came with his father to Clark Co., and they settled on the farm where he now lives, where they remained about two years, when, the household GREEN TOWNSHIP. - 1051 being again broken up, Abraham's lot was again cast among strangers. At the age of 16, he went to learn the blacksmith trade, at which he worked two years, when, finding the business uncongenial with his tastes, he abandoned it for the life of a farmer. During this time he attended school thirteen days at a subscription school-those places of instruction being presided over by broken business men of intemperate habits from the East-when he quit the school-room in disgust and relied upon observation and the experience of life to fit him for its duties. In 1829, he located on his present farm, and on the 19th day of November, in the same year, he was united in marriage, by the Rev. Thomas J. Price, to Miss Matilda Jones, daughter of Erasmus Jones, of Greene Co., Ohio. Mrs. Kitchen was born in Ross Co., Ohio, June 21, 1809, and about 1818 her parents moved to Greene Co., Ohio, where they resided until death, both living to a good old age, her mother being 79 and her father 84 when they died. Mrs. Kitchen has had the following children: Margaret Ann, the wife of John McCullough, of Green Township; Jonathan S., one of the County Commissioners, residing in Spring field ; I. N., a leading farmer of Green Township; E. J. and M. J. (twins), the former a farmer of Green Township and the latter the wife of John Rife, of Greene Co., Ohio; Sarah, the deceased wife of George Elder, of Green Township; Jane V. and Stephen H. (deceased). In 1838 Mr. Kitchen joined the Harmony Township Free-Will Baptist Church, and, the organization afterward removing its location to his neighborhood, he donated a lot on which a church was built, and which stands as a monument of his zeal in the good cause. His wife united with the church about the same time, and both have ever since remained true and consistent members of the Free-Will Baptist organization. As to works of benevolence, temperance and reform, he is positive and aggressive, and prides himself on the position he held and advocated long before the war on the question of freeing the slaves, and in being one of the operators on the "Underground Railroad." Politically, Mr. Kitchen was a Whig, and afterward one of the first Free-soilers of his township, and, this finally merging into the Republican party, he has since voted and worked with that organization, and was always a dyed-in the-wool Abolitionist, sending one of his sons (E. J. Kitchen) to fight in defense of freedom. He has given his children a good education, and has helped them liberally with his means; and, although beginning in life a poor man, he has, by determined energy, succeeded far beyond his most sanguine expectations; and besides the help given his children, has yet the old homestead of 250 acres of land, and a handsome bank account-all the legitimate result of industry and true economy. Mr. and Mrs. Kitchen have been man and wife for fifty-two years, and have always lived on the home farm. On the 28th day of November, 1879, they celebrated their golden jubilee-an event seldom occurring in the annals of married life, and on that happy day were each presented by their children with a handsome gold watch as a mark of love and reverence. Mr. Kitchen is honest and upright in all the relations of life, and is trusted and respected throughout the county. ISAAC N. KITCHEN, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Selma. This gentleman belongs to one of the pioneer families of Clark Co., being the son of Abraham and Matilda Kitchen, whose sketch will be found in this work. Isaac N. was born in Green Township, May 5, 1834, and grew to maturity on the old homestead, attending the district school as much as circumstances would permit, and, at the age of 21, with scarcely any capital but his own natural business capacity, he started in life for himself, by buying the old Concord saw-mill, giving in part payment his individual promissory note. In six months, he disposed of this mill, taking in exchange part land in Darke Co., Ohio, and the balance in notes, on which, with some difficulty, he realized; and in 1858, located upon the " Littler Farm," in his present neighborhood, where he lived ten years, then purchased the " William Marshall farm," of 110 acres, a portion of which he bas ever since resided upon. He was married, Jan. 21, 1858, to Miss Hannah H. Ridge, daughter of Simpson and Jemima Ridge, of Warren Co., Ohio, where Mrs. Kitchen was born June 6, 1832, and to this union have been given six children, viz., Ida (the wife of T. J. Wires), Leuella J. (the wife of Dr. M. P. Hunt), Warren A. and Emma (twins), Wm. B. and Anna (twins) and Mary H. Mr. Kitchen's entire acreage is close on to 600 1052 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES-. acres, and in 1878, he completed a fine frame residence, finished and furnished throughout with a taste that is well up with his means and prosperity, it being one of the most commodious and best-finished residences in the township. In farming, he consumes the principle products of the farm by feeding stock, having now 500 head of sheep on hand, and his principle success has been attained by raising and feeding hogs, sheep and cattle for the market. Politically, Mr. Kitchen is a Republican ; has been Township Trustee two years and School Director twelve. During the rebellion, sent a substitute for three years, one for the 100-day service, one for the " Morgan raid," and was one of those who responded to the Governor's call the time of the "Kirby Smith raid," and who are known as the " Squirrel Hunters." For twenty-seven years Mr. and Mrs. Kitchen have been consistent members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and in every public measure he has been on the side of progress, helping to build up the county by every means in his power; and as a business man, he has few superiors, being energetic, of keen perceptions, honest and upright in all things ; as a neighbor, kind and obliging, he has attained a leading position in the township of which he is an honored citizen. ROBERT F. MARSHALL, farmer; P. O. Springfield; son of William Marshall, this county, was born in this county July 27, 1827 ; the following years of his youth were spent in this county, where he remained, until in 1855, he removed to Lexington, McLean Co., Ill., where he lived six years, and then returned to this township, where he has sincaresided. About three years, during the late war, he was in the service of the United States Government. , His remaining years have been given to farming. His father dying when he was 14 years old, his opportunities for an early education were very limited, but he improved well what he had, and in after years has kept well up with the literature and news of the times. June 2, 1853, he was joined in marriage to Miss Agnes Elder, a lady of intelligence and merit, daughter of Thomas Elder, a deceased early settler and very highly esteemed citizen of this township. Of this marriage six children are living with their parents-Kate, May, William, Elder, Robert and Winfred. Among other offices of trust and confidence, Mr. M. has held that of Township Clerk during the twelve consecutive years last past, and has discharged its duties to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, and with honor to himself. JOHN MILLS, retired farmer; P. O. Springfield; was born on his present farm in 1826. His father, Thomas Mills, a native of Virginia, born in 1785, entered the land, 340 acres, at an early day-part of it in 1812, and died in this township in 1865. John's early education was that of the common schools, and his early life was wholly spent upon the farm. In 1869, he married Miss Clara J., daughter of Peter C. Baird, of Harmony Township. There is no issue of this marriage. Mr. M. and wife are both members of the Methodist Protestant Church of the neighborhood. In 1868, he completed a very neat and well-finished frame residence, which he and his amiable wife have fitted and furnished with very excellent taste, where they enjoy the comforts and quiet of retired farm life. JAMES MILLS, farmer; P. O. Springfield; son of Thomas Mills, was born in Kentucky, May 15, 1809. He was raised to farm life, and received a common school education. When 3 years old, his parents came to this State, and settled upon the farm adjoining his present farm. His father purchased his present farm in 1827 or 1828, of one John Humphreys. In 1831, James took possession, and has since resided upon it. Dec. 16, 1830, he married Delilah Moore, by whom five children were born, two of whom, Thomas Mills and Nancy E. Cultice, survive. Delilah died in 1855, and our subject was married to Harriet Morgan, who still presides over his household. He has 130 acres of excellent bottom land, of which 100 acres are under cultivation. THOMAS MILLS (deceased). Among the deceased pioneers of Clark Co., the gentleman whose name heads this sketch stood deservedly high. He was born in the. " Old Dominion " March 30, 1785, and in 1790 came with his parents down the Ohio on a flat-boat, to Maysville, Ky., having had to " run the gauntlet " of Indian attacks which were made occasionally from the thickly wooded river banks. They settled in Fleming Co., Ky., where the parents of Thomas remained until death. He grew up in Fleming Co., and was there married Feb. 17, 1807, to Jane Dale, a native of Virginia. GREEN TOWNSHIP. - 1053 In the spring of 1812 they came to Ohio, remaining a short time close to where Clifton is now located, and in the latter part of the year he entered 160 acres of land in Sec. 23 of what is now Green Township, Clark Co., but was at that time a portion of Greene Co.; Ohio. Two years later, he entered 80 acres in See. 29, joining his first entry on the west. On the first mentioned piece of land he built his cabin in 1812 or 1813 and there in the wild forests he began his pioneer life in Ohio. To Thomas and Jane Mills were born ten children as follows: James, Nancy, Martha, Sibbia, Hannah, Thomas, Letitia, John, Mary, and one died in infancy. Only three of the above are now living, viz., James, Hannah and John, the latter of whom has inserted his father's portrait in in the history of the county. Thomas Mills was elected a Justice of the Peace of Green Township in 1821, holding that office nine years, and he also filled several minor township offices during his lifetime. He and wife were faithful members of the Methodist Protestant Church of the neighborhood, and died firm believers in the teachings of that church, she dying June 15, 1844, her husband surviving her over twenty years, and dying Dec. 18, 1865. Thomas Mills was a man of undeviating, unswerving honesty and integrity of character, and although coming to this county a poor man, he, by rigid industry and economical habits, accumulated a handsome estate, the legitimate result of his lifelong saving, and energetic business habits. Politically, he was a Whig, and afterward a Republican, and did what he could to build up the moral and educational welfare of his township. He was a true man in spirit and action, and is yet kindly remembered for his many good traits of character and honesty of purpose in dealing with his fellow-man, having ever labored to make the " golden rule " his guide through life. JOHN G. NAVE, farmer; P. O. Springfield; son of Jacob Nave, an early settler, was born June 10, 1838, in this township. His early education was that usually received at the common schools; and his early life was spent on his father's farm. Aug. 3, 1861, he married to Miss Gram, daughter of Jacob Gram, a native of Pennsylvania. She bore him five children-Minnie P., Alpharetta O., Justinus T., Jacob P. and John C. Fremont. In 1870, Mr. N. bought his present farm of John Luse. Since the purchase he has much improved it. On April 17, 1880, a terrible accident, such as few men survive, befel him. A horizontal bar or lever he was using in pulling a stump flew back with great violence, striking him across and breaking both his limbs above the ankles. His life was reasonably despaired of but a good physical constitution , good moral courage and good attendants brought him safely through, so that now be not only superintends all but does most of his own farm work. Mr. and Mrs. N. are both members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and he is Superintendent of the Sunday school. Among other offices he has filled that of member of the Township Board of Education and Township Trustee. JOHN B. PATTON, farmer, stock-grower and feeder; P. O. Springfield; was born at Donnelsville, this county, Dec. 24, 1846. He is the son of John and Christina A. (Bates) Patton, both natives of this State. His father was a physician, and died when our subject was 10 months old, leaving three helpless boys to the care of his mother; but his maternal grandfather, Henry Bates, afforded him, his mother and brothers that aid and protection in life of which they had been deprived by death. A common-school education and a commercial term, were his scholastic preparations for the stern duties of life. At the age of 18 or 19, he commenced business for himself, and rented his grandfather's farm of 125 acres, paying his rent in a share of the crop. In 1878, he purchased his present farm of 160 acres, which he is bringing to a fine state of cultivation by the most approved methods of fertilization. He was married to Miss Carrie L. Brentlinger, daughter of Andrew Brentlinger of Montgomery Co., this State, March 2, 1871. To them four children have been given. Almost as soon as he attained his majority, he was honored and trusted by his people with office, and among others, he has honorably discharged the duties of Township Clerk and Assessor, and is at present Township Trustee and Justice of the Peace. LEWIS SKILLINGS, farmer, stock-grower and feeder; P. O. Springfield; was born in Springfield Township, July 24, 1831. He is of Prussian descent; his grand- 1054 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: father, Lewis Skillings, having been a native of that country, born in 1850. This grandfather, rather than serve as a hireling soldier against the American Colonies then struggling for liberty, deserted and settled in Maine, where he married Mary Blagam. They left seven children, of whom Lewis, the father of our sketch, was the oldest. At the age of 22, he came West, landing at Cincinnati in 1810. He boated on the Ohio and Mississippi for a time, and then settled in Springfield Township, this county, where he died in 1869. Our subject has always followed farming. At the age of 20, though living in his father's family, he commenced business for himself, by dealing in live-stock on a small scale. When 25 years old, he left the parental household and engaged in business for himself, and, with his brother John, purchased 105 acres of land, where he now resides. Before the purchase money was fully paid, this brother died, and he completed the purchase and became the sole owner of the property to which he has since added 311 1/2 acres in the neighborhood. On Dec. 13, 1855, he married Miss Martha A., daughter of Calvin Hammond, of Harmony Township. To this marriage there have been given five children-Fremont, Laura. Rolley, Autice and Carrie, all living at home with their parents. Mr. S. has erected a fine brick residence, and a fine flame barn with stone base; all constructed, finished and furnished in the most elegant taste, and of the most improved designs. JOHN B. SPARROW, farmer, stock-raiser, and dealer in stock; P. O. Springfield; was born in this county July 3, 1829; his father's name was John ; his education was that of the common schools, and his early life was spent, as his whole life has been, upon the farm. At the age of 21, he commenced farming for himself upon the Marquart farm, this township, where be has lived forty-one years. March 1, 1854, he married Miss Ann, daughter of Mark and Esther Johnson. Of this marriage, ten out of twelve children survive; two have married and left the parental home, and the remainder yet remain. April, 1879, Mr. S. bought 209 acres, part of the Marquart landed estate. JOHN T. STEWART (deceased). There is perhaps no family in Clark Co. who are more widely known than the descendants of John T. Stewart, and most of his sons are leading business men of the community in which they reside, and a credit to their deceased father. The family are of Scotch origin, and went to Ireland about 1661, changing their name from Stuart to Stewart, to avoid persecution. In 1735, the grandparents of John T., viz., Samuel T. Stewart and wife, came to the American Colonies, and with them came the father of John T., viz., Samuel Stewart, a native of Belfast, Ireland,. the family settling in Pennsylvania. The subject of this sketch was the fifth son of Samuel Stewart, and was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., March 3, 1781, and there grew to maturity, his father dying in that county Sept. 19, 1803. In the autumn of 1806 he, with his brother, Samuel, came to Ohio, and purchased 500 acres of land in Sec. 15, Town 5, Range 8, which was then a part of Greene Co., but now lays in Green Township, Clark Co., Ohio. About 1815, they divided the land, John T. receiving the southern portion in the division then made. He was married near his home, March 2, 1815, to Miss Ann Elder, third daughter of Robert and Ann Elder, natives of Dauphin Co., Penn., who settled on Sec. 10 of the same township in the spring of 1813. Mrs. Stewart was born in her parents' native county, May 19, 1798, and had the following children by this union: Juliana, Perry, Elder R., Samuel, Charles, James M., Thomas E., Oscar N., William C. and Harriet, all of whom are living but the last mentioned, who died in infancy. John T. and wife resided with his brother, Samuel, until he built a house on his own place, whither they removed in the fall of 1816. In 1813, he was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he held until 1836;-he was the first Clerk of the Clifton Presbyterian Church, which was organized in 1811; was the first Clerk of his Township, and served as Associate Judge one term. He continued to reside on the old homestead until his death, April 16, 1850, his widow surviving him thirty years, dying Sept. 24, 1880. Both were life-long members of the Presbyterian Church, and went down to the grave with a strong faith in a blissful immortality. John T. Stewart was a man of ability and intellectual worth ; of the strictest temperance view's, and can be truly called one of the pioneer temperance men of Clark Co. He GREEN TOWNSHIP. - 1055 was a rank Abolitionist, and early took strong grounds against slavery, and believed that nothing but a war would be able to strike the shackles from the slave, which demonstrates that he possessed a discerning, far-seeing mind, much in advance of his time. He was one of the most energetic. successful farmers of Clark Co., and accumulated an estate worth, at the time of his death, $40,000, which was considered wealthy in those days. He was a man honored and respected by all classes of society, and has left a name that his descendants can point to with just pride. His portrait appears in the pages of this work, having been inserted by his children, who yet love and honor his memory, and who believed that it was their duty to represent him in this history, where he justly deserved a place. PERRY STEWART, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Springfield; was born in this township June 6, 1818, and was the eldest son of John T. and Ann Stewart ; raised to farm life, he has always pursued it. His early education was such as the common schools of the country afforded during his boyhood; but a close observation of and a large experience with the ways of mankind and the business world, have given his mind a cultivation and finish that fit him for the duties and stations in life far above the humble though honorable one of his choice. Of Scottish descent, his ancestry having first removed from Scotland to the northern part of Ireland, thence to Pennsylvania, and thence to Ohio. To perseverance, pluck, industry and economy, he adds liberality, generosity and hospitality. Oct. 15, 1844, he married Miss Rhoda Wheeler, daughter of Ebenezer, who was born Dec. 31, 1824, in this township also. Of this marriage ten children, five sons and five daughters, were born, all of whom survive except one daughter, and many of them grown to manhood and womanhood, fill honorable stations in life, while the remainder are yet in the family household. Upon his marriage, he commenced farming for himself on a farm of 130 acres, where he now lives, and to which he has added until this farm embraces 340 acres, and his entire landed possessions embrace over 600 acres in the vicinity. That he is an enterprising and successful farmer not only the width of his acres, but their state of cultivation and the improvements upon them, leave no room for doubt. In 1862, when rebellion threatened the destruction of our civil government and the spoliation of our Union, he left his family of wife and eight children, his farm and stock, aided in recruiting Co. A, 94th O. V. I., was commissioned Captain of it, and led it into the field. After eighteen months' service, the privations of camp life and the exposure and hardships of it brought disease and disability, and compelled his resignation and a return to civil life. In 1865, he was chosen County Commissioner of his county, and in 1867 a Representative of his district in the General Assembly of his state, both of which offices he discharged the duties of to the satisfaction of his constituents. DAVID STEWART, farmer; P. O. Clifton; was born on his present farm in 1833, and is a son of James and Jane (Elder) Stewart. He was reared to farm life, his youth having-been given-to the cultivation of the homestead farm, under the instruction of his father until in 1859, when he married Miss Laura McKehan, a native of Maryland, born in 1837, who came West with her parents at the age of 13. Here she matured into womanhood, married as above, and in October, 1873, died. After the marriage of David, he engaged in farming for himself upon his father's farm of 130 acres, of which he is now the owner, and to which he has added until it embraces 210 acres of well-improved land in an excellent state of cultivation. He, for six years has- been, and now is Township Trustee; has -three daughters and two sons, all of whom are yet with him in single life. The residence of his birth he yet lives in, and has enlarged, repaired and improved in the most modern style of architecture until it, in size, finish and appearance, compares favorably with any in the neighborhood. ROBERT E. STEWART, farmer and stock-grower; P: O. Springfield; son of Samuel Stewart, who immigrated to this township from Pennsylvania, and settled here in 1806; was born in this township in 1811, and has since resided therein. His early years were spent upon the farm, and his early education that of the country subscription schools of that time. In 1845, he was married to Miss Mary Jane McClung, daughter of Mathew and Elizabeth McClung, of Preble Co., Ohio. After a united journey in 1056 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: life of but four years, she was called away from him in death, leaving two helpless infants to his care. Of these, Mathew S. Stewart manages his father's farm ; and Mary F., wife of Solon Stratton, resides in Bloomington, Ill. Mr. S. purchased his present farm of 120 acres, in 1865 , has lately built an elegant residence, and otherwise greatly improved it. OSCAR N. STEWART, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Springfield; one of a numerous and prominent family of that name in this locality; was born in this township, Feb. 5, 1833. He was the son of John T. Stewart ; was brought up upon the farm, and received a common-school education. At the age of 23 he commenced farming for himself upon a part of his father's farm, where he now resides, and where he has surrounded and provided himself with all the comforts and conveniences of farm life. In January, 1862, he married Miss Rachel Nichelson, daughter of Andrew Nichelson, now deceased, an early settler and much-esteemed citizen of Harmony Township. Of this marriage, three children survive-Herbert P., Ralph N. and Frank C., all living with their parents, by whom neither pains or means are spared to educate and fit them for the duties of life. To the 140 acres originally owned by Mr. Stewart, he has added from time to time, until his acreage in the vicinity reaches 513, besides 150 acres in another locality, all valuable lands in an excellent state of cultivation. He combines stock-growing with farming, and thus turns the products of the farm to greater account, and thereby enhances his profits. WILLIAM C. STEWART, farmer and stock-grower; P. O. Springfield; youngest son of John T. Stewart, and one of a numerous family always found at the front in every good work; was born in this township Oct. 27, 1835. Like that of nearly all young men of his youth, his early training was upon the farm, and his early education was that of the public schools of his youth. His father dying when he was 14 years old, the management of the Stewart homestead fell upon him at an early age-a responsibility which he did not evade, but well discharged. This farm was one of the earliest settled in the township, and is now occupied and owned by the subject of this sketch, who has added to it until his lands embrace 486 acres of the best quality of farms and lands in the locality. His mother, surviving the death of his father, continued in control of the homestead household until June, 1880, when advancing age and ill-health compelled her to quit her home of long years; of much joy and some sorrow, for the kind care and attention of a daughter. The subject of this sketch, mindful of filial duty, remained single so lorg as this dear mother remained in the old homestead. On Sept. 9, 1880, he was joined in marriage to Miss Lizzie T., an accomplished lady, daughter of Albert and Harriet Sellers, of Greene Co., this State. May their united years be as joyous as the writer's wish. E. R. STEWART, miller; P. O. Clifton; was born Jan. 20, 1821, in this township. Reared in farm life, he continued it with his parents; John T. and Ann, until in 1846, when he commenced farming for himself two miles from the homestead. In 1848, be formed a co-partnership in the milling business with John H. Jacoby, a brother-in-law. In 1852, this was dissolved, and he went into merchandising with his brother Samuel, and continued until 1860, when he returned to farming. In 1864, he and Mr. Jacoby bought the Clifton Mills, which, in 1865, were destroyed by fire. They rebuilt, and continued the business until 1872, when the co-partnership was dissolved by Mr. Stewart purchasing Mr. Jacoby's interest. -He has since continued the business himself. The mill is a four run of 100-barrel daily capacity, and is kept running night and day. On Oct. 8, 1846, be was united in marriage to Rachel E., daughter of Henry and Rebecca Curry Jacoby, who still is on the journey of life with him. The issue of this marriage has been four girls and two boys, all of whom are living except one boy. Mr. Stewart is one of those enterprising and fair-dealing business men in whom the people of his neighborhood have the utmost confidence, and for whom all have a profound respect. JOHN TAYLOR, farmer; P. O. Springfield; son of Casper Taylor, a native of Pennsylvania, was born in Franklin Co., Penn., April 9, 1808. His education was that of the subscription schools. At the age of 18 he was apprenticed to a millwright ; GREEN TOWNSHIP. - 1057 but his master quitting the trade after two years, his apprenticeship was released and he thereafter worked at the trade for a period of about nine years. In 1839 he removed to Ohio, arriving at Springfield on May 4, where be went into partnership with Lucius Muzzy, millwright. After two years, this co-partnership was, by mutual consent, dissolved, and Mr. Taylor carried on the business himself until 1851, when he quit the trade. In 1855 he purchased his present farm of 85 1/4 acres from one William Huntington, where he has since resided and intends to reside until his years are closed on earth. He was married May 2, 1841, to Miss Catharine Kirkpatrick, daughter of Hugh Kirkpatrick, late of Springfield. She is a native of Kentucky, and still journeys through life with him. Of this marriage three children out of six survive, as follows: Nathan K., Martin B. and Rachel C., all of whom have arrived at maturity, and but one of whom, the first, resides with his parents. He and his wife, Elizabeth, live with and care for the subject of this sketch and his wife. ROBERT TINDALL, farmer, stock-dealer and shipper; P. O. Selma. It is eminently proper that many of the most prominent descendants of the pioneers should be fittingly mentioned in the history of the county in which they were born and reared; representing, as they do, the names of those whose memories will live as long as time shall last, and there is, perhaps, no man in. Green Township who better deserves a place in the pages of this work than Robert Tindall. He was born in Green Township, Clark Co., Ohio, June 25, 1825, and is the son of Thomas and Sarah (Waller) Tindall, natives of Yorkshire, England, who came to Clark Co. about 1819, settling in Green Township, where they resided until death. Thomas Tindall was born in 1786, and his wife in 1793, and were married in 1814, the former dying in June, 1856, and the latter in August, 1872. To them were born nine children, viz. : George, Charles, Nancy, John, Margaret, Robert, Susan, Mary and Ellen, all living but George and Susan. The subject of this sketch grew up in his native township, with a very limited chance to obtain an education, having to work hard and constantly for his livelihood, with no time to devote to other pursuits, but he was possessed of a determined energy, and a restless ambition, which was bound to carry him onward to success. He was married, April 12, 1865, by the Rev. Mr. Campbell, to Miss Mary Abia Hartwell, daughter of William and Abia Hartwell, natives of Ohio. Mrs. Tindall was born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, close to Cincinnati, Sept. 21, 1839, and had born to her six children, as follows: Herbert D., Carrie A., Olive, Lucy, William and Robert A., all of whom are living. For eleven short years she watched with a fond wife's and loving mother's care over her household, when that dreaded monster death, chose her for a victim, and June 20, 1876, she passed away, a sincere member of the M. E. Church, leaving behind an affectionate husband and six small children to mourn an almost irreparable bereavement. Politically, Mr. Tindall has always been a Republican, and on the breaking-out of the rebellion took active sides with the Government in the vigorous prosecution of the war, sending a substitute for three years, one for the one hundred days' service, and one to repel the "Morgan raid," and was also one of the patriotic "Squirrel Hunters, " who went out like the "Minute Men, " of Revolutionary fame, in response to the Governor's call to fight Kirby Smith, which demonstrates that his heart was with the old flag. Beginning in life poor, his success has been marked from the first, and he is now the possessor of 640 acres of fine land-all the legitimate result of his own indomitable pluck and energy, and is at present erecting a brick residence, modern in design and finish, which will be one of the finest farm residences in the county. He devotes his whole time to his farm and stock business, dealing extensively in that line, and, in fact, is the largest individual stock trader and shipper in Clark Co., no other single shipper doing as large a business. He is now one of the District School Directors, and is a. man whose promises are inviolable, whose honesty and integrity of purpose is admitted by all good citizens, and who has won and retained the respect of all who know him. W. BRAND TODD, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Clifton. The grandfather of this energetic farmer, James Todd, was a native of Ireland, who came to the American Colonies before the dawn of freedom, settling in Massachusetts, and on the break- 1058 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: ing-out of the Revolutionary war, he gave his services to help crush the hereditary foe of his native land. When the Colonies shook off the tyrant's grasp and breathed the air of freedom, he located close to Philadelphia, Penn., where he was married to Mary Brand, to whom were born seven children, James Todd, the father of W. Brand, being the fourth in the family. He was born near Philadelphia, Penn., Oct. 22, 1797, and in 1806 the whole family came West, settling, finally, in Warren Co., Ohio, building their cabin close to a small branch of the Miami River, which yet bears the name of Todd's Fork." His mother died there, and his father was again married to a Mrs. Neely, to whom was born two children, and there his parents resided until death. James Todd grew to manhood in this portion of Ohio, and Jan. 28, 1819, was married, in Green Township, Clark Co., Ohio, to Elizabeth Garlough, daughter of John and Margaret Garlough, he a native of Germany and she of Maryland. Mrs. Todd was born in Maryland, Jan. 12, 1799, and her husband, after marriage, settled permanently in the northern part of Green Township, where he followed the peaceful avocation of a farmer until his death, Dec. 29, 1863. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which denomination his widow still adheres; and now, in her 83d year, in the enjoyment of good health, with a figure as straight as an arrow. she pursues the even tenor of her way surrounded by her descendants, passing the few remaining days of her life in peace and happiness. James Todd was a soldier in the war of 1812, under Gen. Harrison, and the subject of this sketch has now the rifle, powder-horn and bullet pouch which his father carried throughout that struggle. To James and Elizabeth Todd were born nine children, W. Brand being the fifth in the family. He was born on the old homestead, in Green Township, Aug. 20, 1829, and there grew up, following the general routine of a farmer's son. His early education was obtained in the neighborhood subscription school, but general reading and experience has given him a knowledge and intelligence that could not be acquired in the schools of any period. Until the age of 33, he remained with his parents on the farm, with the exception of the summer seasons of eight years, during which he worked with his father at mill-wrighting. He was married, May 26, 1863, to Miss Rebecca Wilkinson, daughter of Joseph Wilkinson, of Madison Township, Clark Co., Ohio, to whom has been born two children, one of whom is living, viz., Charles E., a bright, intelligent boy, whose future prospects are indeed promising. In 1870, Mr. Todd purchased his present farm of 100 acres, located one mile east of Clifton, which he has since brought to a high state of cultivation. Politically, Mr. Todd is an ardent Republican; has been Township Trustee five years, Assessor ten years, and a member and Treasurer of the Clifton School Board five years, all of which offices he has filled with honesty and capability. He is a well-informed, agreeable gentleman, and is respected by the people throughout his township. JOHN WELLER, farmer; P. O. Clifton; son of Joseph Weller, a native of Maryland, was born Dec. 11, 1817, at Augusta Co., Va.; his early years being mostly required in the maintenance of his father's family, his opportunities for the development of his mind in youth were limited to occasional attendance at subscription schools; but a large experience with the world and its business affairs, has made ample amends for this, and given his country a citizen who respects its laws, acts well his humble part in its growth and development, and cherishes its fundamental principles of government. In 1830, with his father's family, he removed to this township, where they settled on the east branch of the Little Miami, and in 1836 his father settled on his present farm of 160 acres, which he afterward, on April 10, 1851, purchased. Jan. 9, 1845, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Wyant, daughter of John Wyant, of Champaign Co., this State. Of this marriage, two children were born ; a son, John A., who assists on the farm, and a daughter, Sarah Jane, wife of John E. Johnson, a neighbor. GEORGE S. WILSON, farmer; P. O. Selma; son of Dr. J. S. Wilson, of Xenia, Ohio, was born at Medina, Ohio, in 1830. He was educated in the common school. At the age of 20 years, he felt and showed a preference for agriculture as a pursuit in life, adopted it as his choice, and commenced farming upon his father's farm, where the village of Selma now stands. Here he lived fifteen years, and in the mean- MADISON TOWNSHIP. - 1059 time became the owner of this farm, which, in 1865, he sold, and bought and occupied a farm between Xenia and Dayton, where he resided about ten years, when he sold this and bought his present farm of 212 acres, which embraces the Robert Hatton farm and other lands adjoining. On Feb. 22, 1852, he married Miss Harrison, daughter of Seth Harrison, of Madison Township. Of this marriage there is issue-Florence P., Fred M., W. Harry, Stella, Hand and Elsie, all with parents except the second, who has commenced business for himself. Of those remaining, Harry is especially deserving of particular mention as a young man of good parts, and full of promise. The farm always seems to revert to the Wilson family, of which it seems to be the destined heritage, having time and again been in the possession of some member of this family for a period of fifty years. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) |