(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) 100 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY Mr. Aronhalt gives his political support to the men and measures of the republican party, and while he takes a deep interest in public matters, keeping himself informed on the current topics of the day, he. has never been active as an office seeker. He is a member of the Plainfield Grange and is also identified with the English Lutheran church. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor, and today he stands as a representative of the substantial citizens of Coshocton county. D. O. THOMPSON. A spirit of marked enterprise and industry characterizes the business career of D. O. Thompson, a dealer in shoes, clothing and men's furnishing goods in Coshocton. His standing in commercial circles is indicated by the fact that he is now serving as the president of the Business Men's Association of the city, in which connection his labors have, been effective and far-reaching in promoting the business conditions and interests of the city, whereby the public at large has benefited, while individual prosperity has been advanced. With a nature that could never be content with mediocrity, he has utilized his opportunities for progress and, having left the ranks of the many, stands among the successful few. Mr. Thompson was born in New Comerstown, Ohio, July 13, 1868, a son of John H. and Sarah (McClellan) Thompson, both of whom were natives of Cadiz, Harrison county, Ohio. They were reared and married there and afterward removed to Hopedale in the same county, there residing for a number of years. Mr. Thompson was engaged in railroading and came to Coshocton as engineer on the first engine over the branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad entering this city. Later he met with an accident which crippled him and he therefore abandoned railroading. For some years afterward he was postmaster of Hopedale, and 'following the period of his residence there he removed to Uhrichsville, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he engaged in merchandising. In 1866 he became, a resident of New Comerstown, where for several years he conducted a store but for the past ten or twelve years has lived retired. His political views are in harmony with the principles of the democratic party and his influence is ever given on the side of advancement and improvement. He has now reached the age of seventy-four years, while his wife is sixty-five years of age. D. O. Thompson was largely reared in New Comerstown and pursued his education in the public schools but his opportunities in that direction were somewhat limited. He was never able to attend after his eleventh year but from that time forward depended upon his own resources for a livelihood. He entered upon his business career as a newsboy but, ambitious for a position that would give him a better chance, in 1884 he entered a clothing store, where for five years he served as a clerk. During that time he gained a thorough knowledge, not only of the clothing trade but of busi-   HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 103 ness principles and methods, thus laying the foundation for his success in later years. In 1889 he came to Coshocton and secured a clerkship in the store of A. Berkowitz, who was occupying the same store room in which Mr. Thompson is now carrying on business on his own account. Some time later the business passed into the hands of F. Alexander, with whom Mr. Thompson remained. In 1899, in association with Luther Strauss, who was a clerk in the, store, the proprietor, Mr. Alexander, living in New Philadelphia, became a partner is the enterprise, which was incorporated under the name of Strauss, Thompson & Company. In 1901 Mr. Strauss died and in August of that year Mr. Thompson acquired the entire business, which he has since conducted under his own name. He has today a splendid establishment, well equipped with a large and well selected line of clothing, men's furnishing goods and shoes. He is now regarded as a representative met-chant of the city and is today enjoying a patronage which makes him one of the most prosperous merchants of Coshocton. In March, 1893, Mr. Thompson was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Smith, of South Charleston, Ohio, and unto them has been born a son, Elbert Dent, whose birth occurred June 12, 1905. Theirs is one of the finest homes in the city, pleasantly located on Park avenue and is especially attractive because, of its warm-hearted and generous hospitality. Recently Mr. Thompson has purchased the McNaughton business block at No. 434 Main street. He may truly be called a self-made man, for without any special advantages, educational or otherwise, he has worked his way upward and although a newsboy less than thirty years ago, he is today one of the most prosperous and representative merchants of Coshocton. His ability, too, is indicated by the fact that he is now serving as the president of the Business Men's Association. He is a member of the, building committee; having charge of the construction of two modern bridges across the river, and in many particulars he has been the moving factor in. measures for general progress. His political views are in accord with the principles of democracy but the demands of his business leave him no time for active participation in political affairs. He is a man of marked force of character, of helpful and courteous bearing, of strong determination and honorable purpose, and these qualities have been the elements in a career which is most commendable in all of its phases. HARRY L. BEACH. While influence may avail to some extent in placing one in a favorble position in the business world, it can never be a prominent feature in success. That is entirely an individual matter, resulting from the judicious employment of One's natural abilities and the wise use of opportunities. This fact finds yerification in the life record of Harry L. Beach, the superintendent and general manager of The. H. 'D. Beach Company, who, though he became associated with his father in business, has made for himself a most creditable name in industrial and commercial circles in Coshocton. 104 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY He was born in Richmond, Indiana, March 20, 1872, a son of H. D. Beach, of whom extensive mention is made elsewhere in this volume. At the usual age he became a pupil in the public schools of this city and during his summer vacations worked in his father's newspaper office. When his father organized the Standard Advertising Company in 1889, Harry L. Beac a left school to give his entire attention to the business. He had previously learned the printer's trade in, all of its details, and because of its kindred nature the advertising business came natural to him. Almost from the start Mr. Beach had charge of the plant which resulted from the consolidation of the Standard Manufacturing Company and the Meek Company. Since the erection of the new plant, which is now operated under the name of The H. D. Beach Company, Harry L. Beach has had charge of the office and the business interests of the plant. He has thoroughly qualified himself for the conduct of this business by his ready mastery of every task which has been assigned to him and he has been instrumental in increasing the scope and enlarging the possibilities for manufacture in a plant which is now one of the leading establishments of the kind in the country, manufacturing art metal specialties for advertising. In 1894 occurred the marriage of Harry L. Beach and Miss Elizabeth Clendening, of Coshocton, Ohio. They are the parents of four children: James; Frank, deceased; Camilla; and Nellie. Mr. Beach votes with the democracy and is a member of Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E., and Newark Lodge of the Royal Arcanum. Honored and respected by all, no man occupies a more enviable position in financial and commercial circles, and this is due not alone to the success to which he has attained but straight forward the honorable, straightforward business policy he has ever followed. JOHN E. GRAHAM. John E. Graham, a prominent and pLewisville, who citizen of Canal Lewisville, who through reelection is serving as the efficient postmaster and is also engaged in merchandising, is a native son of this village, born November 5, 1858. a son of Thomas and Charlotte Graham, both of whom were natives of Ireland and were married in that country in 1849. The year 1852 witnessed their arrival in Coshocton county, the family home being established in Franklin township. Their family numbered seven children, six sons and one daughter, of whom three sons and one daughter are yet living, namely: John E., Charles H., Thomas and Mrs. Ella Boyd. John E. Graham, whose name introduces this record, began his early education in the public schools of Coshocton, this being supplemented by a course in the Lebanon Normal. After completing his studies he engaged in clerking for three years, after which he went upon the road as a traveling salesman, being thus employed for five years. In 1889 he engaged in business on his own account, opening a general store in Canal Lewisville, where he has conducted business to the present time. He carries a full and HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 105 complete line of goods and in his undertakings is meeting with excellent success. In 1898 he was appointed postmaster of the village and in 1907 was reelected to the position, so that he has now entered upon his second term. He conducts the affairs of the office in a most prompt and able manner, fully appreciating the responsibilities that rest upon him in this connection. He is a democrat in his political views and affiliations and religiously is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His record as on official and as a business man has been' so honorable that he has gained the confidence and good will of all with whom he has been brought in contact, while he is popular in society circles in his home town. HON. EDWIN LEWIS LYBARGER. Hon. Edwin Lewis Lybarger is the present representative of his district in the state legislature. He is, moreover, numbered among the distinguished citizens of Ohio because of the prominence to which he has attained in municipal circles and by reason of the extent and importance of his business interests. He is identified with mercantile, agricultural and financial concerns, the successful control of which indicates his keen sagacity and unfaltering enterprise. Mr. Lybarger was born in Wayne county, this state, September 29, 1840. His paternal grandfather, Andrew Lybarger, settled in Coshocton county in 1808, coming to Ohio from Bedford county, Pennsylvania. He established his home on what is now Front street in the city of Coshocton, and opened the first tannery in the county. He was closely associated with the development of this district during its formative period, but in later years removed to Knox county, Ohio, where he died at the advanced age of seventy-eight years. In his political views he was a whig and in matters of citizenship he was progressive. He married Naomi Thompson, a daughter of James Thompson, a native of New Jersey and of Irish lineage, his ancestors coming from the north of Ireland to the new world. He served for seven years in the New Jersey Infantry during the Revolutionary war, and about 1808 removed to Coshocton county, Ohio, his last days being spent in Washington township. James T. Lybarger, a ,son of Andrew and Naomi Lybarger, was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1804, and was therefore four years of age at the time of the removal of the family to Coshocton. In his boyhood days he worked with his father in the tannery and later engaged in farming, continuing to follow that pursuit up to the time of his death, which occurred in Millwood, Knox county, Ohio, in 1864: His wife, who bore the maiden name of Amelia Crum, was a native of Virginia. The maternal great-grandfather of E. L. Lybarger was John Crum, who served in Colonel Daniel Morgan's Battalion in the Revolutionary war. 106 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY As a public-school student Hon. Edwin L. Lybarger pursued his early education which was supplemented by study in the Millwood Academy. He taught school during the winter months in order to pay his tuition and pursue his academical course as a preparation for study in Kenyon College at Gambier, Ohio. The outbreak of the Civil war, however, put an end to his plans of a collegiate course, for he felt that his first duty was to his country, and on the 25th of November, 1861, was mustered in as a member of Company K of the Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. His services cover almost four years, receiving his honorable discharge on the 13th of July, 1865. He held successively the ranks of second and first lieutenant and captain, his promotion coming to him in recognition of his valiant and meritorious services on the field of battle. He was wounded at the battle of Corinth, October 4, 1862, but throughout nearly the entire period of his military experience was on active duty, meeting the enemy in many hotly contested engagements in which he inspired his men by his, own valor and loyalty. When the war was over Captain Lybarger located at Spring Mountain, Coshocton county, where he was identified with merchandising for thirty years. It was during that period that he was elected in 1875 to the state legislature. Thirty years later he was again chosen to represent the district in the lower house of the general assembly and is now serving, his record as a public officer being most creditable and honorable. In 1893 he was a member of the -state board of public works, and was again elected to office in 1896, so that his incumbency covered six years. Throughout the greater part of his business career he has been identified with mercantile interests and is now a member of the firm of Wright, Lybarger & Funk, of Warsaw. He is likewise the vice president and one of the directors of the Commercial National Bank of Coshocton, and for twenty-five years he has been interested in agricultural pursuits, now holding three hundred acres of land in Monroe township, while at one time he was the owner of seven hundred acres. From his farm property he derives a good income and all of his business interests are proving a profitable investment, a fact which indicates his sound judgment and clear business discernment. Mr. Lybarger, was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Moore, of Coshocton county and unto them was born, a son, Harry Swayne, who is now a junior in Kenyon College. Mrs. Lybarger is a member of the Presbyterian church and Mr. Lybarger contributes to its support. He is interested in all those humanitarian organizations which recognize man's obligation to his fellowmen, and has been an earnest and effective worker in many move-me -its which have resulted beneficially to the more unfortunate classes., At one time he served as trustee of the girls industrial home at Delaware and is now' a trustee of the Masonic Home in Mansfield. He has been very prominent in Masonry and served as grand master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. His local membership is with Warsaw Lodge, No. 296,, A. F. & A. M.; Samaritan Chapter, No. 96, R. A. M.; Coshocton Commandery K. T. and the Cincinnati Consistory of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite. He also belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E. ; HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 107 to the Loyal Legion ; and to Newton Stanton Post, G. A. R., having served as department commander of the state Grand Army of the Republic. He was a member of the commission that built the state house in Columbus, and he. belongs to the Sons of the American Revolution. His interests are varied, but all are along lines of progress and improvement. He is a broadminded man who places a correct valuation upon life, its opportunities and its privileges, and while in his business affairs he has achieved a gratifying measure of prosperity, he has at the same time wrought along the lines of the greatest good to the greatest number, his activity in various fields proving of benefit to the community at large. He stands today among the most honored and eminent residents of Coshocton county. DANIEL SPECK. Daniel Speck is classed among the wealthy landowners of Jefferson township, owning arid operating two hundred acres of land, all of which is well improved and has been placed under a high state of cultivation. He has spent his entire life in Jefferson township, and no man of this section of the state is more widely and favorably known. He was born on a farm in Jefferson township, October 15, 1859, and comes of German descent, being a son of Joseph and Margaret (Strom) Speck. The paternal grandfather was born in Germany in 1808 and spent his entire life there. Joseph Speck, the father of our subject, came to the United States when a boy and located in Coshocton county. His first business venture was peddling clocks, later on he engaged in farming and became a very prosperous man. His death occurred March 8, 1898. He gave his political support to the democratic party and was a member of the Evangelical church. The father was twice married, his first union being with a Miss Gamesfelder, by whom he had three children, namely: Christ, a resident of Bethlehem township; John, a farmer of Grundy county, Missouri; and Hannah, deceased. His second union was with Margaret Strom who was born in Switzerland and became the mother of the following children : Gotlieb, a railroad man living in Terre Haute, Indiana ; Joseph, a railroad engineer of Kansas City, Missouri; Caroline, deceased; David, of Massillon, Ohio ; William, deceased; Daniel, of this review ; and George, also of Coshocton county. The mother died in 1904. Daniel Speck began his early education in the district schools of Jefferson township, this being supplemented by a study in the Warsaw high school, from which he was graduated. After completing his education he engaged in teaching, following that vocation for eleven terms. He had been reared to farm life, however, and this proving more congenial to him than the duties of the schoolroom, lie then turned his attention to agriculture. That he has Met with success in the years which have come and gone is indicated by the fact that he is today the owner of two hundred acres of valuable land situated in Jeffengson township. On his place stands a fine 108 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY country residence and many substantial barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, all these having been erected by Mr. Speck. His land is rich and arable, for he has made a close study of farming and follows the most modern methods in carrying on his work. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and each year gathers abundant harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields. Daniel Speck was married to Lucy Sapp, a resident of Tiverton township, their wedding being celebrated in 1884. This union was blessed with six children : Lona, the wife of Russel Bantum, a mail carrier on rural route No. 1; Lelah, Eva, Chloris, Lester and Burton, all at home. Mr. Speck's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give. stalwart support to the democratic party. He is deeply interested in the cause of education and at the present time is serving as trustee of the school board. His fraternal relations are with the Patrons of Industry, while both he and his wife are identified with the Disciple Church of Christ. Mr. Speck's success has come to him, not through any fortunate circumstances or the aid of others, but it has been acquired through his own honorable and well directed efforts. He started out in life empty-handed and has battled earnestly end energetically and by indomitable courage and integrity has achieved both character and fortune, and well deserves the proud American title of a self-made man. CHARLES DILLON BROOKE. The success which Charles Dillon Brooke has achieved in the choice business is proof that his choice of a life work was a wise one. In this field of labor he has made consecutive progress, noting and improving his opportunities, and utilizing the modern business methods which are revolutionizing trade interests and relations. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born in Chatham, Licking county, on the 25th of June, 1862, his parents being Dr. H. and Rebecca E. (Robison) Brooke. His father was born in Gratiot, Ohio, in 1831, and was a son of Dr. William H. Brooke, one of the successful physicians of this state. Various representatives of the name have gained distinction as members of the medical profession, the son taking from father's practice, and thus from generation to generation the work has been carried forward, each representative thereof displaying marked ability in the following. Mr. Brooke, of this review, was the first to enter another graduate activity. His father is a graduate of the Miami Medical College, at Cincinnati, Ohio, and of the Starling Medical College at Columbus. He has been a very successful physician, practicing continuously for forty-six years. His wife is a daughter of the Rev. William Robison, a Christian minister, who for several years was pastor of a church of that denomination at Mount Vernon. The daughter, HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 109 Mrs. Brooke, was born in Danville, Ohio, July 27, 1834, and as both Dr. and Mrs. Brooke are still living their married life has been of long duration and has been one of mutual interest and happiness. Charles Dillon Brooke is indebted to the public school system of Newark, Ohio, for the early educational privileges which he enjoyed. He mastered the branches taught in the various grades until he became a high-school student and when about seventeen years of age began the study of medicine and surgery in his father's office. His heart, however, was not in this work and after a year Dr, Brooke was persuaded by Henry C. Bostwick, who conducted a jewelry establishment under the Doctor's office, to allow his son to take up the jewelry trade. The boy was not interested in the medical science, and felt that he could obtain a. higher degree of success in other lines if he could be permitted to utilize his energies in other fields. He therefore readily availed himself, of his father's consent to abandon his medical studies and in September, 1880, he came to Coshocton to serve an apprenticeship under John A. Bostwick, a brother of the Newark jeweler. Mr. Brooke continued in this position for two years, or until the removal of his employer to Cambridge, Ohio, when he entered the employ of a third brother; W. W. Bostwick, who was also a jeweler of Coshocton, and with whom he remained for three years. In 1885 he availed himself of the opportunity to engage in business on his own account by forming a partnership with L. K. Anderson, under the firm name of Brooke & Anderson. The new enterprise proved a profitable venture and was continued under the original ownership and management until 1891, when Mr. Brooke purchased his partner's interest and has since been alone. He has today one of the well appointed jewelry establishments of Coshocton, carrying a large and well selected line of goods, which in its neat and tasteful arrangement is proving most attractive to the public. While laboring earnestly and effectively for the upbuilding of his individual interests Mr. Brooke has also been a factor in the general progress of Coshocton along commercial lines, doing much to further the interests of the city in this regard as president of the Business Men's Association in 1906-07. He is a member of the board of Sinking Fund Trustees of the city and has served as a member of the city council. In all of these connections he has done for Coshocton whatever his hand has found to do and has introduced many movements which have resulted beneficially in promoting the city's welfare. He was practically the founder of the Business Men's Association, being untiring in his efforts during ten or twelve years to organize this and place it upon a substantial basis, realizing how much can be done through the united effort of business men in promoting general commercial and industrial activity. At length, with the assistance of George M. Gray, he succeeded in organizing the association, and all Coshocton acknowledges the city's indebtedness to them because of what has been accomplished through the society. On the 17th of September, 1884, Mr. Brooke was married to Miss Anna M. Taylor, of Coshocton county, and a graduate of the Coshocton high school, class of 1882. They have become the parents of five children: Har- 110 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY old, now deceased; Helen, who completed the course in the Coshocton high school with the class of 1907; Rodney, Lorna and Charles. In his fraternal relations Mr. Brooke is connected with Coshocton Lodge, No. 96, F. & A. M.; Samaritan Chapter, No. 50, R. A. M.; Coshocton Commandery, No. 63, K. T.; Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E.; and Fidelity Lodge, No, 135, K. P. His political support is given to the republican party, but he prefers that his public service shall be done in the capacity of a private citizen rather than as an office holder. He is an enterprising citizen, his work being of a character that has largely promoted public progress. He upholds all of those interests which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride, while through his work in connection with the Business Men's Association he has greatly enhanced the material development of this city. JAMES L. BECK. James L. Bock, a prominent and well known citizen who is now engaged in agricultural pursuits in Bethlehem township, was born in Holmes county, Ohio, March 16, 1860, his parents being Benjamin and Julia (Butron) Beck, natives of Pennsylvania and Holmes county, Ohio, respectively. The grandfather, Michael Beck, came to Holmes county about 1836, and there entered land. Benjamin Beck, father of James L. Beck, lived in Holmes county until the time of his demise on the 2d of August, 1905, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1894. Unto this worthy couple were b., five children, namely: Mary S., the wife of E. A. Henderson, of Ashtabula county, Ohio; George M., deceased; James L., of this review; David A., a resident of Coshocton county; and Elmer E., who has also passed away. James L. Beck atended the district schools of his native county, and when seventeen years of age began learning the miller's trade under the direction of Peter Widner, of Holmes county. Two years later he took charge of the Helmick mills, being thus engaged for about nine months, when he came to Warsaw, Coshocton county, and took charge of the Warsaw mills for B. Beck & Son. Under his management the business grew and prospered and he continued as a representative of milling interests altogether for about sixteen years. Subsequently he successfully conducted a mercantile establishment in Warsaw- for seven years, but on the expiration of that period sold out and turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits, with which he has since been connected. His holdings comprise two hundred and ten acres of rich and valuable land in Bethlehem township and in addition to the work of general farming he makes a specialty of raising hogs, these two branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income. He has erected a commodious and substantial residence, a good barn and all necessary outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, and the place in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates the supervision ownerpractical and progressive oWner. Mr. Beck is likewise connected with the financial interests of the county as vice president of the Farmers & Merchants HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 113 Bank at Warsaw, and is serving as treasurer and a director of the Coshocton County Telephone Company. On the 21st of September, 1882, Mr. Beck was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Strome, whose birth occurred at Warsaw, Ohio, March 12, 1863, her parents being Christian and Margaret Strome whose family numbered six children. The father is now deceased but the mother still survives and makes her home at Warsaw, Ohio. Unto our subject and his wife have been born nine children, as follows: Flossie M., deceased; Allen C., Torrence B. and Lester A., who are graduates of the Warsaw high school and are now attending college at Wooster, Ohio; Ethel L., who has also passed away; Helen G.; Esther M.; Robert J.; and Evelyn. Mr. Beck gives his allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party but has no desire for the honors or emoluments of office. He is, however, serving as a member of the school board, the cause of public instruction ever finding in him a stalwart champion. Fraternally he is connected with the Maccabees at Warsaw, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church at Warsaw, with which his wife is also identified. Mr. Beck has made good use of his opportunities. He has prospered from year to year and has conducted all business matters carefully and successfully, and in all his ,acts displays an aptitude for successful management. REASON T. COMPTON. Reason T. Compton, well known, enterprising and successful, was born in Jackson township, Coshocton county, Ohio, on the 19th of January, 1848, his parents being Elisha and Hulda (Hays) Compton. The father, a retired agriculturist making his home with his son, Reason T., is mentioned on another page of this work. The mother, however, was called to her final rest September 13, 1880. The, family is of English ancestry. Reason T. Compton supplemented his preliminary education received in the public schools of Roscoe, by attendance at the Ohio Wesleyan University. On leaving the latter institution, he took up the profession of teaching, which he followed for twelve years in the public schools of Coshocton county and also in Illinois, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. He also devoted a part of his time to musical instruction, giving lessons in both vocal and instrumental music. Between the years 1880 and 1905 he successfully carried on business as an organ and piano dealer in Coshocton, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in this undertaking by reason of his excellent business ability- and reliable methods. On retiring from this line of activity he returned to the quietness of rural life and has since resided on his neat and well improved farm in Jackson township. Mr. Compton has one son, Floyd, who is a resident of Coshocton. He is a highly respected and public-spirited citizen and has always taken an 114 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY active part in public affairs, being the leader in the incorporation of the village of Roscoe in 1890. He has likewise promoted quite a number of rural telephones in Coshocton county, of which he drew the first and only complete telephone map while in the employ of the Bell Company. For more than forty years he has now been a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which he takes an active and helpful interest. He is very fond of literature and music, and is widely recognized as a representative and worthy citizen of his native county. An unassuming, pleasant and companionable gentleman, he stands among the first for integrity of purpose and general high character in the community where lie has so long resided. WILLIAM J. BAHMER. When the Centennial History of Coshocton County was contemplated the publishers set forth these reasons governing their selection of the man for the work: To tell the story of Coshocton county in the spirit of its swiftly-moving events, to bring before the readers the vivid picture of the scenes and actors in the drama enacted here, and to do it in smoothly-flowing, consecutive narrative, it was deemed fitting to enlist one trained by long experience and especially qualified by wide personal acquaintance with the field. In selecting William J. Bahmer as the writer of the historical chapters the publishers brought to the work a pronounced believer in literature of intense action, alive to the charm of the beautiful and to the humor of situations, and quick to discern the incidents of dramatic and picturesque interest. He is a Coshocton county product, born in Bakersville, August 1, thirty-seven years ago. The name in its German form is Bühmer, pronounced as though spelled Baymer. His father, John Bahmer, was a son of Valentine Bahmer, a pioneer in this region. John Bahmer was a storekeeper in Bakersville and well liked. Later he established produce commission houses in Pittsburg, Philadelphia, New York and Boston. From the Walnut street school in Coshocton the son went to school in New York four years and Boston four years. Early symptoms of writing had already become manifest in a story of his published in Frank Leslie's Boys' and Girls' Weekly of New York. His father looked forward to giving him a college education, but the boy had only started in the English high school in Boston when his father died of pneumonia and was brought from Boston to the churchyard near Fiat, where his little daughters, Clara and Carrie, rested. Young Bahmer was the sole support of his widowed mother. He began teaching school at Bakersville, Fiat and Pleasant Hill. At eighteen he was in newspaper work in Pittsburg, reporting the Johnstown flood, and later writing headlines for the Pittsburg Dispatch. He went to New York HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 115 where newspaper and magazine work engaged him. From the World he went to the Tribune and afterward to the American. His work ran the newspaper gamut: writing editorials, reporting Wall street, politics, yacht races, prize fights, titled weddings, Sing Sing's death chair, reviewing boas and plays, and interviewing presidents, statesmen and people of note from all over the world. While Harvard had been denied him he found a schooling in the world. For four years his editorial work on the Coshocton Bulletin was known to the county. Following the sale of the paper he went to Pittsburg and was advertising writer for the Pennsylvania lines when he lost his wife, who died in Allegheny, March 22, 1904, from typhoid fever and pneumonia. She was his life. Hosts of friends cherished the memory of her pure, sympathetic nature. No daughter of Coshocton was held dearer in hearts than Marguerite Voorhees. Mrs. Elizabeth A. Voorhees is her mother. The father, Major George Voorhees. who served in the Civil war, rests at his daughter's side in South Lawn. A little son, William V., born in Brooklyn, New York, March 13, 1897, and baby Marguerite, born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, January 6, 1904, were cared for by Mother Bahmer, the dear heart broken by years of sorrow over the graves in the country churchyard, now striving to help her son bear his cross. He went from Coshocton to his worrk in the railroad office in Pittsburg each week, returning home Sundays. After four years with the railroad he left the service to live at home, and since the summer of 1907 has been in Coshocton. At the last republican county convention his name came up for the nomination for state representative to oppose the reelection of J. B. Foraker to the United States senate. With an unprecedented demonstration of enthusiasm the convention nominated him on the first ballot over E. L. Lybarger, candidate for renomination. Hundreds of democratic friends supported Bahmer, but the Foraker knife was out, the Foraker postoffice henchmen stabbed as only those political assassins could stab, and their knifing defeated the republican nominee for the legislature. SAMUEL H. MILLER. Samuel H. Miller, a prominent and successful agriculturist of Bedford, township, was born at Miller's Station, Harrison county, Ohio, November 16, 1851, his parents being Harrison and Mary (Wheeler) Miller. The grandfather,. who was of Dutch extraction and a farmer by occupation, came from Pennsylvania and passed away when his son Harrison was seventeen, years of age. The latter's birth occurred in Harrison county, Ohio in 1818, and in early life he learned the cabinetmaker's trade at Steubenville, working at that occupation for a few years. Subsequently he was employed at the carpenter's trade and, in connection with his work as a contractor and 116 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY builder, carried on farming, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. His demise occurred in 1904 and his remains were interred in the West Bedford cemetery. Miller's Station, Harrison county, was named in his honor. A democrat in his political views, the confidence and trust reposed in him by his fellow townsmen was indicated by the fact that he lacked but two votes of being elected sheriff of Harrison county, which usually gives a large republican majority. He was very prominent socially and also took an active and helpful interest in public affairs, capably serving as justice of the peace for twenty-seven years and also acting as treasurer and clerk of the township board. For twenty-four years prior to his death he was an exemplary member of the Masonic fraternity and was an upright, conscientious and God-fearing man, respected and esteemed by all who knew him. The mother of our subject was born and reared in Harrison county, Ohio, where she was married and spent her entire life. Her family numbered eleven children, namely : Margaret Jane, the widow of Thomas Parr; Malinda and John, who have passed away ; Harvey, a resident of Freeport, Harrison county ; Jacob, who makes his home near Stillwater, Tuscarawas county, Ohio ; two who are deceased; Samuel H., of this review; Lewis, living in the Indian Territory ; and two who died in infancy. Following the death, of his first wife Harrison Miller was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Margaret (Birchfield) Story, by whom he had two children : Henry, a farmer by occupation ; and Harry, deceased. Mrs. Margaret Miller still survives and makes her home with her son Henry. Samuel H. Miller obtained a limited education in the common schools but through reading, observation and experience in later years has become a well informed man. He remained on the home farm in Harrison county, assisting his father in the work of the fields until twenty-five years of age, when he started out in life on his own account. Purchasing a farm in 1881, he resided thereon until 1889, and afterward spent a year in Bedford. In the spring of 1890 he rented the Talmage place near Roscoe, Coshocton county, in the operation of which he was successfully engaged for six years. On the expiration of that period he took up his abode on his present farm, comprising two hundred acres of well improved and valuable land in Bed.. ford township, and in 1903 erected a substantial and attractive residence on the place. He likewise owns a half interest in a tract of three hundred and fifty-seven acres in' Harrison county, on which property there are two producing oil wells, located four miles south of Scio, Ohio. He is widely recognized as a prosperous and progressive agriculturist of the county and justly merits the proud American. title of a self-made man, for the success which has crowned his efforts is entirely the result of his unwearied industry, unflagging energy and capable management. In December, 1874, Mr. Miller was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Jane Smith, of Harrison county. She was one of a family of ten children, namely : Margaret ; Susanna; William, a practicing physician, who passed away in 1881; Mrs. Miller; Edna; Bert ; Amanda; McKinney ; Mattie; and D. M., who is engaged in the practice of medicine at Newark. All of the HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 117 children were well educated and became school teachers. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Miller were born three children. Alberta is the wife of J. C. Borland, who is engaged in the wholesale and retail meat business at Bowerston, Ohio. Of their three children but one survives—Weldon Earl. Earl Smith and Ethel May Miller are the other members of our subject's family. A stalwart advocate of democracy, Mr. Miller has taken an active interest in the local work of the party and his fellow townsmen have called him to various positions of trust and responsibility. For two terms, from 1891 until 1894, he acted as coroner of Coshocton county, also served as secretary of the county 'central committee, as a member of the school board and for three years was justice of the peace. Fraternally he is connected with Wakatomika Lodge, 1 o. 108, A. F. & A. M., in which he has passed through some, of the chairs. A devoted and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, he has served therein as steward and trustee and for thirty years has been class leader, while his wife and family are also connected with the church. Such in brief is the life history of Samuel H. Miller. In whatever relation of life we find him he is always the same honorable and honored gentleman, whose worth well merits the high regard which is uniformly given him. ARNOLD BABCOCK. Arnold Babcock owns a well improved farm of fifty acres situated in Oxford township, in the operation of which he is assisted by his son. The history of the pioneer settlement of Coshocton county would be .incomplete without the record of this gentleman, who from its earliest founding has been a prominent factor in its substantial growth and improvement. Mr. Babcock was born in this county, May 1, 1836, and is the only surviving member of a family of five children born of the marriage of Abel and Jane (Amore) Babcock, both of whom were born in the state of New York, whence they removed to Coshocton county at an early date. Both the parents are now deceased, the father passing away in Linton township and the mother in Adams township, this county. The family record, is as follows: Truesdale, Arnold, Elizabeth, John and Clark. Arnold Babcock pursued his studies in the common schools and re mained under the parental roof until he reached mature years, when he operated rented land for two years, after which he was employed by others at farm labor for a time. He then put aside all business and personal considerations and offered his services to the government, becoming a member of Company C, Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served four years. He participated in many of the most important and hotly contested battles of the war, these including Stone River and Lookout Mountain. He was twice wounded and was incarcerated in Libby prison for six months. Following the close of hostilities he returned home, having made a most creditable military record. 118 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY Upon his return to Coshocton county, Mr. Babcock assumed farming pursuits arid in the years that have come and gone has accumulated a property embracing fifty acres situated in Oxford township. He was throughout a long period engaged in general farming and still retains his residence on the farm but leaves the more active work of the fields to his son, in whom he' finds a valuable assistant. Mr. Babcock has been twice married. He first wedded Miss Julia Daugherty, their marriage, being celebrated in 1865. She was born in Oxford township, one of a family of four children born unto James and Jane Daugherty. By her marriage Mrs. Babcock became the mother of a son and daughter: James, who has departed this life,; and Louisa, the wife of A. Rehard, of Coshocton county. Following the death of his first wife, Mr. Babcock was married in 1871 to Margaret A. Loos, who was born in this county, one of six children, born unto ,Adam and Rebecca Loos. This union was blessed with seven children, as follows: Calvin A., who is operating the home farm; Alta M., the wife of William Polan, of Dennison, this state; Harry and Carry, twins, the former a resident of this county, and the latter at home; Daisy Bell, who is still under the parental roof; and two who died in infancy. The wife and mother passed away in 1899. Mr. Babcock is a republican in his political views and affiliations and has served as trustee of the township, while for over thirty years he filled the office of constable. His religious views are indicated by his membership in the Methodist Protestant church. He is a public-spirited citizen, who is widely and favorably known, and his life history cannot fail to prove of interest to his many friends, and it is therefore with pleasure that we present this record of his career to our readers. JOHN C: STOCKUM. A finely improved farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, situated in Tuscarawas township, within two miles of Coshocton, is the home of John C. Stockum, who has followed farming as a life work. He was born February 8, 1847,, on the home farm in Linton township, a son of Christopher and Mary Ann Stockum, who were both natives of Germany, whence they emigrated to the United States in the early '30s. Locating on a farm in Linton township, Coshocton county, the father here engaged in general agricultural pursuits throughout a long period. John C. Stockum was reared on the home farm, assisting hifieldser in the work of the fieldS from the time of early spring planting until the crops were harvested in the late autumn. He pursued his studies in the district schools near his father's home but his advantages in this direction were very limited for there was much arduous labor to be performed in the -development and improvement of a new farm. He shared with the other members of the family in the hardships and privations to be borne with life on the frontier. Upon starting out in life on his own account he chose the occupa- HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 119 tion to which he had been reared and has always followed agricultural pursuits, now owning and operating a farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, located within two miles of Coshocton, so that while he can enjoy the advantages of a rural existence he can also have many of the conveniences of city life. He is engaged In general farming and is meeting with excellent success in his undertakings. Mr. Stockum has been three times married. He was first married August 8, 1870, to Miss Elizabeth Cabel, of Randolph county, Indiana, by whom he had a son and daughter, Philip and Caroline. The wife and mother died July 24, 1878, and for his second wife Mr. Stockum chose Maria E. Miller, of Linton township, this county, whom he wedded November 21, 1880. There is one son by this union, Milo E. The second wife died February 25, 1892, and on the 28th of May, 1893, Mr. Stockum was married a third time, this union being with Mary C. Bainter, of Muskingum county, Ohio, by whom he has one daughter, Marie. All the children are still under the, parental roof. Mr. Stockum's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic party and while he takes a deep interest in public affairs he has never been active as an office seeker, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his private business affairs. He is a member of the Grange and of the English Lutheran church. Brooking no obstacles that could be overcome by honorable and determined effort he is working his way upward and is already favorably known in agricultural circles because of his capability and his laudable ambition. DANIEL W. BABCOCK. Daniel W. Babcock was born in Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, Ohio, December 16, 1838, son of Eleazer and Elizabeth (Elliott) Babcock. The father, whose birth occurred near Dartmouth College, New Hampshire, in 1801, came to Coshocton county in 1811, entered land and built a log cabin in which he made his home for several years. Later he erected a hewed log house, which remained his place of abode until he was called to his final rest on the 4th of October, 1873. In 1831 he had wedded Miss Elizabeth Elliott, who was born in New York in 1809 and who passed away August 22, 1859. He was one of the earliest pioneer settlers of this county and underwent many of the trying and hazardous experiences of frontier life but lived to witness the gradual transformation of the wild and undeveloped region into a well populated and highly civilized district. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eleazer Babcock were born eight children, namely: Mary, Sarah and Samuel T., all of whom are deceased; Daniel W., of this review; Hannah, the widow of E. Foster, who resides in Coshocton, Ohio ; Caroline, who is the widow of J. Asire and makes her home in Holmes county, Ohio; 120 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY Lucinda, the wife ofJames Crawford, of Mill Creek township; and Catharine E., the wife of E. Durler, of .Millersburg, Ohio. Daniel W. Babcock acquired a common-school education and when he had attained his majority rented a part of the home farm. In 1864 he enlisted in defense of the Union as a member of Company F, Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until the close of hostilities, when he was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio. He had gone with Sherman on the celebrated march to the sea. On returning to this county he lived with his father until the latter's death and then purchased the homestead farm of eighty-two and a half acres. In 1879 he moved to the Mound and entered the mercantile business, meeting with a well merited measure of success in that undertaking. He now makes a specialty of raising sheep and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the substantial and enterprising citizens of the community. On the 2d of December, 1875, Mr. Babcock was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Allishouse, whose birth occurred in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1847. Her parents, Jacob and Mary Allishouse, whose family numbered 'eleven children, are now deceased. Unto our subject and his wife have been born four children: Nora A., at home; L. E.; L. R., whose demise occurred at Duluth, Minnesota; and D. W., also at home. In his political views Mr. Babcock is a stalwart republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth, have called him to various positions of trust and responsibility. He has served as constable and also as a member of the school board, while for thirty years he capably and faithfully discharged the duties of postmaster. He still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in G. A. R. Post, No. 69, and his wife belongs to the Reform church. Throughout his entire life, covering the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, he has maintained his home in this county and is therefore largely familiar with its annals from pioneer times down to the present. That his career has ever been an upright and honorable one is indicated by the fact that the associates of his boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanchest friends and admirers. I. BENTLEY POPE. Where ambition is satisfied and every ultimate aim accomplished effort ceases and inactivity follows as a logical sequence of such a condition. It is only when ambition serves as an impetus toward higher ideals that results are achieved in excess of anything that has gone before. In an analyzation of the life record of I. Bentley Pope it is not difficult to ascertain that this same ambition has been the main motive power in his life—an ambition to do something better than he has done before, and to set up a higher standard than has hitherto been known in the line of business with which he is connected. In the development of the pottery industry of America his name is a HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 123 preeminent one and what he has done is deserving of the recognition and commendation of all who feel a spirit of pride in America and her industrial and commercial advancement. Mr. Pope is a native of England and spent his boyhood days at Stoke-on-Trent, long a center of the pottery industry of the world. It was to this line that he turned his attention at an early age, becoming an apprentice in the works of Copeland & Son, having the largest establishment in his native town. Gradually working his way upward in the business and utilizing every opportunity to gain a knowledge that would bring him toward perfection in this line, he ultimately received a degree on completing a course in the Memorial School .of Art, at Stoke-on-Trent, and after two more years of practical experience in the business he sailed for America, believing that it offered a richer, if largely untried, field to the potter. Up to that time, and for some years thereafter, America's production of pottery was of a grade inferior to that produced in the pottery centers of the old world, but through the influence of such men as Mr. Pope the business has been undergoing a gradual development. For a few years after his arrival in the new world he acted as general manager, and manager of the decorative department of the American Pottery Company, the Union Pottery Company, the Gloscon Pottery Company, and the Pope & Lee Company, all of Trenton, New Jersey. During his connection with the first named he was awarded the only gold medal for the decoration of semi-porcelain dinner and toilet ware given by the board of awards of the Centennial Exposition, at Philadelphia, in 1876. For twelve years he was manager of the decorating department and art director for the Knowles, Taylor & Knowles Company, at East Liverpool, Ohio, and it is admitted that largely through his keen appreciation of a high standard of ornamentation the products of this company have attained the enviable position they now occupy among the pottery products of the United States. It was but natural that Mr. Pope should seek a field in which he could give wider scope to his genius and to his ambitions. He had given years of study to the clays and other materials used in pottery manufacture, as well as to the art side of the business, and had come to the conclusion that it was due to the manufacturer and not to the product that America had not attained a preeminence that Europe had done in this line. He resolved, therefore, that he would demonstrate to the world the fact that America need be second to no country in its pottery manufacture. To this end it was necessary that he engage in business on his own account, that his labors need not be hampered by the restrictions of others. For this purpose the Pope-Gosser China Company, of Coshocton, was organized, Mr. Pope associating with him Charles F. Gosser, a. man of well known executive force, of the clearest discrimination, and of the keenest business ability. Coshocton was reaching out for new industrial enterprises and various factories had been located here. At length he completed negotiations with Mr. Gosser that soon developed the plans for the organization of .the Pope-Gosser China Company and its location in this city. The plans for the new company required a broad business policy which would maintain present incomes while it sought 124 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY higher commercial fields. The starting point of the industry was made the best product to be secured from the pottery workmen then available, and from that point progress was, sought as improvement could be maintained in both material and workmen. While the company has already made marked advance in the character of its manufacture, it has not yet reached the high ideals which the members of the company have set up. Mr. Pope's plans for an independent business, however, saw their fruition in 1902 in the organization of the Pope-Gosser China Company, under the laws of New Jersey, with a capital stock of one hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars. Of this one hundred thousand is common and twenty-five thousand preferred stock. The company organized, with the following well known business men as members of its board of directors: I. Bentley Pope, H. B. Pope, C. F. Gosser, S. M. Williams, C. B. Hunt and J. M. Pope. The Present officers are: I. B. Pope, president; William Burns, vice president; and Charles F. Gosser, secretary and treasurer. With the organization of the company completed, work was immediately begun on the plant, which is situated on the line of the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad, on Seventeenth street, in Coshocton. In making the architect's plans all the best ideas in pottery construction were combined and incorporated, and the result is a model, modern arrangement, equal to if not superior to any plant of this kind in the world. Already the facilities have had to be increased, and now include six large kilns, and four for decorated ware. Two additions have had to be made to the building, which was originally three hundred and fifteen by ninety feet. The building containing the administration department is three stories in height and the other buildings are two stories. The plant in its floor space covers nearly two acres and is lighted throughout with electricity. Something of the spirit of enterprise which characterizes the company in the conduct of the business is indicated by the fact that while a disastrous fire occurred in February, 1906, it was allowed to be only a temporary bar to progress, for at once the work of rebuilding and further improvement was begun. Employment is given from two hundred and twenty-five to four hundred people, according to the season, and the payroll approximates one hundred thousand dollars annually. In the business "progress" has been the watchword, and the company demands this quality of its employes. From the beginning they have manufactured what is known to the trade as semi-porcelain dinner and toilet ware, its distinguishing merit being its immunity from crazing or cracking, which was an early fault of American pottery. The Pope-Gosser Company has, however, entirely overcome this difficulty, and the reputation of its output is such that its standard makes find a ready sale without solicitation. Indeed the excellence. of the product is attested by the fact that fully one-half of the output is disposed of through the home office without the assistance of salesmen, for the jobbers and department houses .seek .,the product. The business has enjoyed a steady and rapid growth and in no department has its development been so marked as in the decorative department, where most beautiful and artistic work has been given to the public. Today the Pope-Gosser products of this character are regarded as standard on the market. and the HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 125 position of the company at the head of American pottery is firmly established and universally conceded. For a brief time after the establishment of the plant European clays were used, but these were soon discontinued, for American clays were found which are infinitely superior to those in use in the old world, and the company believes that the time will come when the French will have to buy American clay to compete, with the product here produced. When American potters are trained to the efficiency of the European workmen there is no doubt that Coshocton pottery will occupy the place in public regard now held by Haviland, and other well known makes. Mr. Pope in his efforts in this line is certainly deserving of the recognition and the gratitude of the industrial world. His name stands in pottery manfacture as does the name of McCormick in connection with agricultural implements. With thorough preliminary training as a foundation, he has built the superstructure of success, and his ability is today only hampered by the skill of employes whom he can secure, and this is a condition which is steadily being overcome. Holding to the highest ideals, thoroughly conversant with the best methods of manufacture, possessing superior artistic skill, and knowing fully what is being done in every important pottery industry of the world, he is working not only to equal but to improve on what has already been accomplished, and Coshocton' may well be proud to number him among her honored citizens. The Pope-Gosser Company took the only gold medal at Jamestown Exposition for porcelain china and general art ware, both white and decorated. HARVEY R. McCURDY, M.D. The advanced and enlightened methods of medical practice which are now in vogue find a worthy exponent in Dr. H. R. McCurdy, of Coshocton, and while he, has made the practice of medicine and surgery his real life work, he has also become known as one of the most far-sighted, energetic and progressive business men of the county, identified with various important enterprises of this city. His parents were John R. and Rebecca (Johnson) McCurdy, the former a farmerby occupation, spending his last days on the farm where his birth occurred. The paternal grandfather of Dr. McCurdy Caine to Coshocton county from Philadelphia in 1817 and purchased two sections of land in Bedford township, a part of which he owned at the time of his death. He married Jane Richie, who was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, and both lived to an advanced age. After mastering the- branches taught in the common schools Dr. McCurdy continued his education in the academy at West Bedford and the Northwestern Ohio University. He was graduated in medicine from the Western Reserve University with the class of 1889, but in the interim after completing his literary studies he engaged in teaching school for five years, being employed throughout this period in the schools of Coshocton county.. Having qualified as a member of the medical profession, he located for prac- 126 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY tice in Keene, this county, where he, remained for five years and then came to the city of Coshocton, where he has since made his home. His ability has been demonstrated in the success which has followed him in the handling of many important and serious cases. He is enough of a psychologist to realize the beneficial effects 'of sympathy and encouragement and these form a part' of his practice, while in the administration of remedial agencies he is most accurate, employing only such as produce the best possible results. Aside from his professional service Dr. McCurdy is well known in .Coshocton, being connected with many of the leading commercial and industrial concerns of the city. He is now the president of the Lafayette Stamping & Enameling Company, president of the Coshocton Realty Company, president of the Coshocton Chautauqua Company and a director of the Coshocton National Bank, the Meek Company, the Coshocton Glass Company and the Times Publishing Company, all of which have felt the impetus of his energy and keen business discernment, which enables him not only to understand the situation at the present moment but also to correctly value the opportunities of the future. Dr. McCurdy was married in Coshocton, in 1893, to Miss Lulu B. Sprague and the hospitality of the best homes of the city is cordially extended them. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and he gives his political allegiance to the democratic party. He served during President Cleveland's administration as United States pension examining surgeon for five years and for three years was a member of the city council, during which time he exercised his official prerogatives in support of progressive public measures, but whether in office or out of it, his loyalty to the general good is unquestioned. His efforts have been of substantial benefit in the material upbuilding of the city and, added to his business powers, he has those traits of character which render him personally popular. He is a member of the county and state medical societies, is also connected with the Board of Trade, and is a trustee by appointment of the public library. KINSEY L. ALMACK. Kinsey L. Almack, the vice president of the Coshocton Glass Company, was born in the village of Mohawk, Coshocton county, April 19, 1880, his parents being David and Rebecca E. (Richards) Almack. His father was born in Perry township, Coshocton county, October 15, 1843, a son of Kinsey G. and Caroline (Johns) Almack. The father was a. native of Maryland, while his grandfather, was a native of England, and on coming to the new world settled in Maryland, where his remaining days were spent. Kinsey Almack arrived in Coshocton county when about eighteen or twenty years of age,. He was a stonemason and also a farmer. He died in 1865 in faith of the Methodist church, of which he had long been a consistent and devoted member. His political views were in accord with the principles of the republican party. His wife was born, reared and married in Ohio and HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 127 passed away in 1888. In their family were eight children: David E.; L. F., a gardener of Indiana; H. W., who follows farming at Newburn, Iowa; Mary F., the wife of T. McNabb, a farmer of Knox county, Ohio; W. A., deceased; Harriet Eliott, the wife of W. P. Moore, of Jewel City, Kansas; W. L., a telegraph operator, in Beloit, Kansas; and Margaret Florence, who is now deceased. Of this family, D. E. Alrnack was reared in his native county and acquired his education in the public schools of Perry and Jefferson townships He assisted his father in the work of the home farm until eighteen years of age, when he offered his services to his country and enlisted as a member of Company H, Ninety-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry to serve for three years. He was discharged at the close of the war in 1865, after having done faithful duty in various important battles. He was wounded at Kenesaw Mountain by a minie ball, and also participated in the battles of Perryville, Kentucky; Stone River, Chattanooga, Mission Ridge, Knoxville, Resaca, Franklin and Louisville, together with all of the engagements under General Sherman from Chattanooga to Kenesaw. On the expiration of his term of service Mr. Almack returned to Coshocton county, where he engaged in farming for two years. He then turned his attention to merchandising in Mohawk and was numbered among the leading business men of that village and of Coshocton until within two years ago. He then, retired from mercantile fields, but is still financially interested in various business enterprises. He derives a good income from a farm of one kindred and sixty acres in New Castle township and from real estate in Mohawk and Coshocton, while he also is financially interested in an ice plant and other business concerns in his city. His political views accord with the priciples of the republican party, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. He is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and thus maintains pleasant relations with his old comrades who wore the blue on southern battlefields. Kinsey L. Almack, son of D. E. Almack, was a pupil in the public schools of Mohawk until he had passed through consecutive grades and entere,d the high school. As he approached manhood he became his father's associate in the general mercantile business of Mohawk and thus received a thorough commercial training. After attaining his majority he came to Coshocton to associate himself with the firm of D. E. Almack & Sons, wholesale grocers, the company being organized at that time. He remained a member of the firm until 1904, when they sold out to the trust and imediately afterward K. L. Almack became associated with the Coshocton Glass Company, of which he has since been the vice president. This is now classed with Coshocton's most important productive industries, while Mr. Almack has won recognition as a most successful and progressive young business man. On the 17th of September, 1901, Mr. Almack was united in marriage to Miss Grace Fowler, of Warsaw, Ohio, and unto them has been born a daughter, Velenthol. The parents are well known in this city and have gained the favorable regard of a large circle of friends. Mr. Almack exercises his right 128 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party, but has neither time nor inclination to seek office. He is watchful of opportunities in the business world, and is making substantial and gratifying ad-advancement, sustaining in his business career the, high reputation which has always been associated with the family name in commercial and industrial affairs. G. M. SANDS, M.D. He whose name initiates this review has gained recognition as one of the able and successful physicians of the state, and by his labors, his high professional attainments and his sterling characteristics has justified the respect and confidence in which he is held by medical fraternity and the local public. Dr. Sands is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, born November 23, 1862, a son of William B. and Florence M. (Jesopp) Sands. The paternal grandfather, Samuel Sands, was proprietor of the Baltimore American and was the, first man to set in type from the original manuscript the words of the familiar song, "The Star Spangled Banner." In 1819 he established the American Farmer and was engaged in newspaper work throughout his entire life. The father, whose birth also occurred in Maryland, continued the publication of the American Farmer after his father died and he, too, became quite prominent in journalistic circles. He is now living retired in Baltimore. The mother was born in Ashland, Baltimore county, Maryland, and her people were extensive slave owners prior to the Civil war and gave them their freedom just prior to that strife. Their family numbers six sons and one daughter, all of whom survive: William B., Jr., a florist of Baltimore county, Maryland ; G. M., of this review; Frank N., a bank clerk in Baltimore ; P. West, also a florist of Baltimore ; Hugh K., who is employed as clerk in a bank in that city; Murray, who is a traveling salesman for the American Tobacco Company and makes his home in Washington, D. C.; and Mary Cecelia, who is with her parents. Dr. G. M. Sands acquired his early education in the district schools of Baltimore county, Maryland, and later graduated from the Baltimore high school. Deciding upon the practice of medicine and surgery as a life work he then matriculated in the College of Physicians & Surgeons at Baltimore, Maryland, spending two years in that institution. He completed his course, however, in the Baltimore University School of Medicine in 1896. He then located in Walhonding, where he has followed his profession to the present time and his practice is constantly increasing. Four years ago he established a hotel and sanitarium, which he has since conducted under the name of Nacirema. This is one of the finest and best equipped institutions in Coshocton county and its patronage is drawn from many sections of the state. Dr. Sands established a home of his own by his marriage in 1890 to Miss Emma Vicary, who was born in England, but at the time of her mar- HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 129 riage was living in Baltimore county, Maryland. They have one son, Samuel, who was born July 17, 1892. The Doctor is independent in his political views and affiliations but has never been active in public life for his time is fully occupied with the duties of his profession. He is a Mason, belonging to Warsaw Lodge, No. 255, at Spring Mountain; and to the chapter at Coshocton. He is also a member of the Maccabees tent at Walhonding, while, he keeps abreast with the ideas and progress of the medical profession through his membership in the Coshocton Medical Society and the Ohio State, Medical Society. He and his wife are members of the Disciples church. He is a man of the highest and purest character and he is held in high regard not only by, the public but by his fellow practitioners as well. WENDELL BORDENKIRCHER. Wendell Bordenkircher, a successful agriculturist of Linton township, was born in this township on the 22d of August, 1847. His parents, John and Katharine (Ashbaker) Bordenkircher, were both natives of Germany and emigrated to America about 1830. The grandfather purchased land, built a cabin with a clapboard roof and puncheon floor and lived in the same for several years. John Bordenkircher owned one hundred and fifty-nine acres at the time of his death, and both he and his wife passed away in the same year. Their family numbered twelve children, namely: John, Jr., Mary Ann, Rachel, Maria and Joseph, all of whom are deceased; Jacob, of Coshocton; George, who died while serving as a soldier in the Civil war; David, of Mount Sterling, Illinois; Magdaline, likewise a resident of Mount Sterling, Illinois; Wendell, of this review ; Bernard, and William, deceased. Wendell Bordenkircher was reared on the homestead farm and acquired a common-school education. When twenty-one years of age he was married and settled on the farm on which he now resides, it being then the property of his father-in-law, and rented the place until the latter's death, when his wife received forty acres as her share of the estate. Our subject now owns two hundred and thirteen acres of rich and productive land, eighty acres of which lies in Franklin township. In addition to the work of the fields he has raised all kinds of stock and has met with a gratifying and well merited measure of success in both branches of his business. At present, however, his sons relieve him of much of the arduous labor incident to the conduct of the farm and he is largely living retired. On the 8th of August, 1868, Mr. Bordenkircher was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Hiser, who was born on the farm where she still resides, on the 21st of April, 1846. Her parents, Michael and Margaret (Frech) Hiser, were both natives of Germany and were married in the fatherland. About seventy-three years ago they emigrated to America and coming to Linton township, Coshocton county, Ohio, purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land where Mr. Bordenkircher now lives. The father erected a round log house, without a floor, and in this typical pioneer abode reared his family, 130 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY likewise clearing a part of his land. He died in 1888, when seventy-five years of age, while his wife was eighty-four years old when called to her final rest in 1890, both passing away at the home of Mr. Bordenkircher. Their family numbered eight children, three of whom survive, namely: Martin, of Coshocton, Ohio; Mrs. Bordenkircher, and Rachel, the wife of Nicholas Zellers, of Kansas. Unto our subject and his wife have been born eleven children, as follows: Wendell, of Linton township; Frank, deceased; Catherine, the wife of Benjamin Boyer, of Linton township; Mary, who is the wife of William Boyer, and likewise resides in Linton township; Michael, of Massillon, Ohio; Julia, at home; Vincent, living in Seattle, Washington; John, of Franklin township; Anna, who also makes her home in Seattle, Washington; Margaret, at home; and Albert, deceased. In his political views Mr. Bordenkircher is a stalwart democrat and has served as road supervisor and township trustee, eyer discharging his public duties in prompt and capable manner. Both he and his wife are devoted members of the German Catholic church, and are well known and highly esteemed throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives. He is a prosperous farmer and a worthy representative of those sturdy old pioneers who left the fatherland and cast in their lot with the earliest settlers of this county. GEORGE SALISBURY CATON. George Salisbury Caton, treasurer and general manager of the Fountain Dry Goods Company, holds to high ideals in business and the establishment which is conducted largely after his plans is one of the leading mercantile enterprises of Coshocton. His business career makes him one of the representative citizens here, while his personal popularity insures deep interest in his life record among the readers of this volume. He was born in Cardington, Morrow county, Ohio, in September, 1863. His father, Andrew Caton, a farmer by occupation and successful in his undertakings, died in September, 1905. The grandfather of our subject came to Ohio from the state of New. York. Mrs. Jane (Montgomery) Caton, mother of George S. Caton, was a native of Ohio and a representative of the old and distinguished family of that name. She died May 30, 1905. George S. Caton, reared upon the home farm, is indebted to the district schools of the county for the early educational advantages which he enjoyed. He afterward spent two terms as a high-school student in Chesterville, Ohio, and when he had put aside his text-books he continued to aid in the work of the home farm, in which he had previously engaged during the periods of vacation. He was thus employed until he attained his majority, when he came to Coshocton in October, 1884, thinking to find commercial pursuits more congenial than the work of the fields. Here he associated himself with the firm of Selby, Moore & Caton, in which his brother was a partner, and served as a salesman in the store, which then occupied HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 133 the present site of the Bunedel shoe store. He continued with that concern for five years, when the business was incorporated in 1889 under the name of the Fountain Dry Goods Company, and in 1891 George . Caton became general manager and treasurer. He has been associated with the business in the same capacity since that time and has been a moving factor in its success. In 1903 the building which the company now occupies was erected for the purpose and gives to the house excellent chance for the display of its goods and for the growth in the trade. The business has enjoyed almost phenomenal advancement—a fact which is indicated in the statement that in 1889 employment was furnished to seven people, while in 1908 they employ thirty-five salespeople. The store is conducted on the department plan and a large and well selected line of, general merchandise is carried. Moreover the store is most neat and tasteful in arrangement and the prices are reasonable and the business methods honorable. Mr. Caton devotes his entire time to the management of the store, which draws its patronage from among the best people Of Coshocton and the, surrounding country. On the 10th of August, 1887, occurred the marriage of Mr. Caton and Miss Leonora Peck, a daughter of Alfred Peck. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mr. Caton is serving on the official board. In politics he is a democrat but without aspiration for office. He is a member of the board of trade and of the Business Men's Association and is interested in all that tends to further the commercial and industrial prominence of the city. His own success is attributable entirely to his earnest efforts and persistency of purpose. Prompted by laudable ambition, he has watched for opportunities that would lead him forward and by his energy and determination has overcome all difficulties and obstacles in his path. He stands today as a strong man, strong in his ability to plan and to perform, strong in his honor onor and good name. LEONIDAS JONES. Leonidas Jones, who carries on general farming in his native village and township, was born in West Bedford, Coshocton county, Ohio, February, 12, 1846, his parents being Thomas and Mary Ann (Smith) Jones. The grandfather, William Jones, was numbered among the early settlers and agriculturists of Bedford township. Thomas Jones, whose birth occurred near Cadiz, Harrison county, Ohio, there grew to manhood but in the early '30's came to Coshocton (county and was identified with general farming interests until 1850. In that year he became connected with the mercantile business at West Bedford, Ohio, and was successfully engaged in that line of activity until the time of his demise, with the exception of four years' incumbency in the office of treasurer of Coshocton county. He was a stalwart democrat in his political views and held a number of township offices, including that of assessor. He passed away on the 2d of January, 1905, in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal church, and was buried in the West Bed- 134 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY ford cemetery. Mrs. Jones, who is a native of Jefferson county, Ohio, and whose marriage was celebrated at West Bedford, still survives and now makes her home with our subject. Her family numbered five children, namely: Leonidas, of this review; N. M., the wife of John Metz, who is engaged in farming near West Bedford; Lavina, the wife of T. . Sharpless, who also follows farming near West. Bedford, Ohio; Tillie, who lives with her brother Leonidas, and one who died in infancy. Leonidas Jones acquired his education in the common schools of his native town and later became associated with his father in the conduct of his mercantile establishment. After the latter's death he continued the business alone until October, 1908, and met with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity by reason of his well selected stock of goods and reliable business methods. He owns a commodious and attractive residence and one hundred acres of valuable land, which he is now cultivating. Mr. Jones gives stalwart allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life. covering a period of sixty-two years, he is well and favorably known here, and is widely recognized as a prosperous and progressive business man as well as an upright and honorable citizen. JESSE THOMAS McBANE. On the roster of county officials in Coshocton county appears the name of Jesse Thomas McBane, who is now filling the position of clerk of the courts. His entire life has been passed in this county and his history is well known to his fellow townsmen, who have always found him a reliable and enterprising citizen and a progressive business man. He was born in Franklin township, December 30, 1866, a son of John C. and Elizabeth (Hankins) McBane. His father died April 26, 1884, while the mother, surviving him for sixteen years, died in 1900. Mr. McBane, of this review, pursued his early education in the district schools and afterwards attended a normal school. He devoted our years to teaching school in early manhood and also carried on general farming He began farming on the old homestead in Franklin township, and was quite successful in his efforts in tilling the soil and cultivating the crops best adapted to climatic conditions here. He continued to engage in farming until 1893 and then came to Coshocton as local representative of a farm implement concern, with which he was associated until 1896. He then became stockkeeper at the Novelty Advertising Plant, where he remained until 1892, when he entered the employ of the Meek Company in the same capacity, and so continued until August, 1896. He had been elected clerk of the courts on the democratic ticket in November, 1905, and on the, 6th of August, 1906, he entered upon the duties of the office, in which he will remain as the incumbent until August, 1909. He has been very faithful and prompt in HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 135 the execution of his duties and has inaugurated many important changes in the conduct of the office—changes which enable him to give better service and which have therefore secured to him the commendation of all concerned. Mr. McBane is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, has taken the highest degree in the society, and is a member of the Patriarchs Militant. He also belongs to the Pathfinders and the Home Guards of America. Interested in the work of the Methodist Protestant church, of which he is a faithful member, he is now serving on the board of stewards and is also superintendent of the Sunday school. In politics he has always been a stalwart democrat and is active in the party, doing much to advance its interests. On the 6th of February, 1896, Mr. McBane, was married to Miss Gale Moore, of Coshocton, and they have one daughter, Helen, who was born in March, 1897, and one son, Gleason, born in February, 1902. Both Mr. and Mrs. McBane have many friends in Coshocton and are popular with those who know them. Mr. McBane possesses a genial manner and cordial disposition which enables him to make his way readily among all classes of people and which wins for him warm friendships. He is particularly fond of horses and finds no little rest and recreation in driving. He is interested in all that pertains to the city's welfare and upbuilding, and his cooperation is given to many measures calculated to promote the material, political and moral interests of the city. JOSEPH A. MIZER. Joseph A. Mizer, who retains an active interest in agricultural pursuits, besides conducting one of the leading stores in Bakersville, Ohio, where .a, line of general merchandise and farming implements is carried, was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, January 26, 1840, the son of Jacob and Susanna (Sommer) Mizer. His paternal grandfather was one of the pioneer settlers of Ohio, coming from Pennsylvania at a time when railroads were unknown in this section, and he made his advent into the territory on foot, having walked the entire distance. On his arrival at New Philadelphia, then a settlement of three log cabins, he had but fifty cents in money. Jacob Mizer, the father of our subject, was reared to agricultural life and in course of time acquired considerable property. He wedded Susanna Sommer, a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and they became the parents of fourteen children, of whom ten grew to maturity and six are now living, namely: Joseph A., of this review; Martha, the wife of Lewis Barrick, of Bakersville, Ohio; Sarah, the wife of George Zinkon, of Coshocton; Michael R., a resident of Tuscarawas county; Frank, who resides in Red Cloud, Nebraska; and Lydia, the wife of John Gurber, of Tuscarawas county. Joseph A. Mizer was reared on the farm in Tuscarawas county, where he resided until twenty-two years of age, when he came to Bakersville and purchased a farm of sixty-six acres adjoining the village; The venture 136 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY proved profitable and in 1870 he embarked in general merchandising in Bakersville. Starting in a small way, the business has now attained to generous proportions and is conducted under the firm name, of Mizer & Company, his eldest sot, being interested with him in its conduct. In addition to his farming interests and the store, Mr. Mizer also owns the block in which the store, is located, and his son owns a fine residence in Bakersville. Mr. Mizer still maintains his residence on the farm, going back and forth to his business daily. In May, 1862, Mr. Mizer was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Everhart, who was 'born in Adams township, January 25, 1843, the daughter of John and Juda (B13arrick) Everhart, both of whom were natives of this county. Unto this union were born three children, as follows: Clement E., born in 1563, was married October 29, 1885, to Emma Bahmer, who was born in Bakersville. August 17, 1866, the daughter of Valentine and Elizabeth (Thomas) Bahmer, both of, whom are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Clement E. Mizer have become the parents of the following children: Jennie 0., Joseph C., Magdelina M., Pauline, Ione and Stanley, all of whom reside at home with their parents; and Beulah and Gladys, who are deceased. Clarinda and Alfred W. reside at home with their father. The mother passed away April 25, 1904. In her religious faith she was a Lutheran. Mr. Mizer gives his political allegiance to the democracy and has been elected to various offices, having served as township treasurer and township trustee, besides holding different positions on the schoemberd. Fraternally he was a mniember of the Knights of Pythias when there was a lodge at Bakersville. Religiously he is a member of the Church of Christ. Mr. Mizer is recognized as an active, force in matters pertaining to the general interests of the community and has acounty.f friends throughout the county. HON. CHARLES BEATTY HUNT. Hon. Charles Beatty Hunt, one of the successful members of the Coshocton bar, is devoting his attention largely to practicewell versedtion law, and yet is well'versed in all departments of the science of jurisprudence. That Coshocton is an attractive place of residence, offering many opportunities and advantages to her citizens, is proved by the fact that many of her native sons hand haveined within her borders and-have worked their way upward to prominence and affluence in their chosen fields of labor. Such is the history of Mr. Hunt, who was born here November 21, 1859, his parents being the Rev. William E. and Caroline A. (Totten) Hunt, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Judge C. B. Hunt was reared in Coshocton, and in addition to mastering the branches taught in the public schools he pursued a course in Latin and higher mathematics under his father. At the age of seventeen years and while still attending high school he secured a position as bookkeeper in a grocery store. This, however, was not his initial step in the business world, HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 137 for he had acted for five years as agent for a Newark florist. He thus early learned the value of money, and to correctly estimate the power of earnest and persistent labor. In February, 1878, he, began work in the dry-goods store of Mrs. W. W. Walker, where he remained until the 1st of July, 1880, for he had determined to enter upon a professional career, and in August of that year he began reading law as a student in the office of Campbell & Voorhees, well known attorneys of Coshocton. In October, 1882, he was admitted to the bar of Ohio by the supreme court at Columbus and (Judge Campbell having died in July, 1881), Mr. Hunt in October, 1882, became associated with his former preceptor Judge Voorhees, in the firm style of Voorhees & Hunt, an association that continued until 1894. In the fall of 1893, however, Mr. Hunt was elected probate judge of Coshocton county, and in the following February assumed the duties of the office, which he discharged with such ability that on the expiration of his first term, in 1896, he was reelected and filled the Position for two full terms. In 1891 he had served as the first clerk of the county election board after the establishment of the Australian system of balloting. In February, 1900, when his term as probate judge had ended, he again entered upon the private practice of law and has since devoted his attention to the work of the courts. While he engages in general practice, he also makes a specialty of corporation law, and the power which he has displayed' in handling intricate legal problems has won him classification with the more successful and learned members of the Coshocton bar. Mr. Hunt also figures prominently in connection with various corporate interest. He has been the secretary_ of the Coshocton Building & Loan Association for sixteen years, was one of its organizers and from the beginning has been the active manager. In that time the business has grown until it is now represented by the sum of one hundred and seventy thousand dollars, yet he has never foreclosed a mortgage nor charged a dollar's loss. He is attorney for and director of the Pope-Gosser China Company, and was one of the organizers and directors of the Wooden Novelty Company, which, however, has passed out of existence. He is now vice president and one of the directors of the Hunt-Crawford Company, manufacturers of corrugated paper, and is attorney and director of the Commercial National Bank of Coshocton and attorney foranumber of other corporations. He has been interested for a number of years in speculative building in Coshocton, erecting a number of houses for sale. He belongs to the board of trade and is one of the foremost men in any movement for the good of the city. His advice and counsel are regarded as valuable assets in the conduct of any business enterprise or public concern, while , his efforts have been an impetus in furthering many substantial measures. Judge Hunt is also equally well known in political circles. In 1892 he was one of the presidential elector on the democratic ticket, and in 1906 was a candidate for the nomination for common pleas judge, but was defeated by Judge Nicholas by fifty-six votes. He has served as a delegate to several state conventions, and has frequently thus represented his district in judicial and congressional conventions. He served for some time on the city ex- 138 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY amining board for the examination of school teachers, is one of the trustees of the West Lafayette College, and is in hearty sympathy with any movement t further educational progress. On the 26th of December, 1893, Mr. Hunt was united in marriage to Miss Anna Beulah Rowley, a daughter of the Rev. Milton Rowley, a Congregational minister who came, to Coshocton in 1885 from Georgia. The family had resided there, however, for only two years, having previously lived in Wisconsin, where Mrs. Hunt was born. Their children were three in number, but they lost their first born Charles Rowley, who died in September, 1900, at the age of five years: Their surviving children are Alice Elizabeth and Harold Ewing. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt occupy an enviable position in the social circles of the city and few residents of Coshocton are, better known than Mr. Hunt, who has passed his entire life here. He is a worker, efficient and, forceful, in whatever line claims his attention, and he possesses the strong perseverance that enables him to overcome difficulties and conquer obstacles. His analytical mind has proved a valuable feature in determining possibilities in business conditions and municipal affairs, as well as in matters relating to the courts, and in all public concerns his judgment is regarded as sound and his methods practical. HARVEY A. SICKER. Harvey A. Sicker, who since 1903 has capably and acceptably filled the position of cashier of the West Lafayette Bank, is one of `the young and enterprising business men of this" village. He is a native son of Coshocton county, born September 5, 1868, of the marriage of John L. and Harriet (Spangler) Sicker, who are likewise natives of this county.. The father was barn March 1, 1847, in Linton township, while the mother's birth occurred in Bethlehem township, January 9, 1845. The father was reared to farm life and following his marriage, which occurred October 6, 1867, he formed a partnership with his father and carried on general agricultural pursuits until the time of the latter's demise. He then inherited one hundred and forty acres of the estate, since which time he has added to his possessions until he is now the owner of two hundred and twenty acres, one hundred and sixty of which is situated in Linton township and the remainder in Lafayette township. He raises sheep on quite, an extensive scale, having at the present time a flock of seven hundred, all registered stock. Both Mr. and Mrs. Sicker are faithful and devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Harvey A. Sicker, whose name introduces this record, acquired his education in the district schools and was reared to farming pursuits, remaining under the parental roof until he had reached the age of twenty years. Believing that other pursuits would prove more congenial to him than a rural life, on the 24th of March, 1889, he entered into partnership with R. A. McClure and carried on general merchandising in West Lafayette for eleven HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 139 years. On the expiration of that period he disposed of his interest to his partner and accepted a position as traveling salesman with the grocery firm of Flake & Neal, of Newark, Ohio, with whom he continued for four years. It was during this time that he 'was elected cashier of the West Lafayette Bank, this being in the year 1903. Resigning his position as traveling salesman, he then entered upon his new duties, in which he has been engaged to the present time. He has proved himself a capable incumbent, is quick, positive, exacting and comprehensive, of every detail of affairs that comes within the scope of his action. He has also taken an active interest in other matters, and was one of the organizers of the West Lafayette Manufacturing Company and for a time served as president of the concern. Mr. Sicker chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life, Miss Cora E. McGuire, whom he wedded on the 16th of December, 1891. She was born in Lafayette township, January 10, 1872, a daughter of Francis McGuire, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Sicker has been graced with two interesting daughters, Esther M. and Sarah E. Mr. Sicker's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democracy, and he has filled a number of township offices, the duties of which he has performed in a prompt and able manner. He belongs to the Masonic Lodge, No. 96, at Coshocton. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant church. They are popular in social circles, while in business relations Mr. Sicker commands the respect and honor of all with whom he has dealings. He is very methodical and accurate as to details and displays splendid judgment in handling the affairs of the bank which come under his supervision. SAMUEL COX. Samuel Cox, an 'enterprising and progressive farmer and stock-raiser, is numbered among the pioneers of Coshocton county, his birth having occurred April 26, 1837, in Virginia township. He is a son of Hamilton and Rachel (Hardesty) Cox, the former a native of Loudoun county, Virginia, and the latter of Coshocton county. The son assisted in the arduous task of developing and improving the homestead farm, for it was covered with timber when the family took up their abode on it.. He pursued his studies in one of the, old-time log schoolhouses during the winter months and acquired a fair knowledge of the common branches of English learning.  During the progress of the Civil war Mr. Cox put aside all business and personal considerations and enlisted on the 24th of September, 1864, as a member of Company F, Seventy-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served under General Sherman and participated in the march from Atlanta to the sea. He was never wounded while in battle and made a creditable record, being discharged July 2, 1865.  140 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY Returning to, his home in Coshocton county he resumed farming pursuits and has continued in this line of activity to the present time. He now has a well improved farm of eighty acres in Virginia township, and in addition to raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he is also engaged in raising stock, keeping only high grade animals. He is meeting with success in both branches of business, and all with whom he has dealings have for him only the highest respect and esteem. Mr. Cox established a home of his own on the 28th of November, 1858, by his marriage to Miss Mary Kreider, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Clemens) Kreider, who were of German descent and coming from eastern Pennsylvania were numbered among the early settlers of the Buckeye state. Their union was blessed with twelve children, but five of the number have passed away. The record is as follows: Maritia, deceased; Isaac; Henry, who has departed this life; Isadore, who is also deceased; Howard; Emanuel; Leota, deceased; Ida, .now the wife of 0. G. McCoy; Effie, who has departed this life; Marvin ; Melvin, and Clara B., now the wife, of Edward McFarland. Mr. Cox is a republican in his political views and affiliations and has been called by his fellow townsmen to fill a number of township offices. For two terms he served as township trustee and for a similar period was township assessor, while at various times he has acted as school director. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Baptist church, and he is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. Although he has now passed the seventieth milestone on the journey of life, he still takes an active interest in public affairs. He is a man of strong character and sterling worth and well merits the high regard in which he is uniformly held. H. D. WILLIAMS. H. D. Williams, an enterprising agriculturist of Monroe township, is a representative of one of the old and prominent pioneer families of Coshocton county, for the name of Williams has long been identified with the agricultural life of this section of the state. He is today the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of land in Monroe township and operates one hundred and sixty acres. His birth occurred on his present farm, February 26, 1870, a son of Marion H. and Mary J. (Weatherwax) Williams The, paternal grandfather, John R. Williams, was a pioneer settler of Linton township, which was the birthplace of the father, and both followed farming as a life work. The mother was born in Monroe township, a daughter of Jacob Weatherwax, and it was in the year 1864 that she gave her hand in marriage to M. H. Williams. She became the mother of a daughter and son, the sister of ,our subject being Lizzie J., the wife of . B. Elder, a resident farmer of Jefferson township. The father died July 4, 1899, and following his death the mother was married a second time, this union being with Piatt HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 143 Williamson, their wedding being celebrated in 1902. They now make their home in Warsaw. H. D. Williams acquired his education in the schools of Monroe township and in the Warsaw high school. His boyhood and youth were spent on the home farm, during which time he, became familiar with the duties of farm labor. After reaching mature years he went to Columbus, Ohio, where for five years he was employed in the street car service and in a dairy. He then returned to. Monroe township and resumed farming, at the present time owning one hundred and twenty acres of well improved land and he also farms a tract of forty acres, adjoining, which belongs to his wife. He carries on general agricultural pursuits and dairying and both branches of his business are proving profitable. Mr. Williams was married in 1892 to Miss Maggie J. McClure, a daughter of Robert McClure, who was a resident of Keene township but is now deceased. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Williams has been blessed with six children, five sons and one daughter: Stacey T., Charles E., Marion D., Walker A., Piatt R., and Mildred J., all under the parental roof. Mr. Williams is a strong temperance man, advocating the principles of the prohibition party. At the present time, he is serving as secretary of the temperance committee and does all in his power toward the promotion of this cause in his community. He is a devoted member of the Evangelical church at Pleasant Hill and at the present writing is serving as trustee and steward. He is a most loyal and public-spirited citizen and no matter in what relation of life we find him, whether in business life, political service or social circles, he is ever found to be the, same honorable and honored gentleman, who well deserves the high regard and esteem which is uniformly given him. J. L. BIBLE. J. L. Bible, who is now successfully engaged in farming in Keene township, was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, September 23, 1873, his parents being Joseph and Margaret (Courtright) Bible, who are mentioned on another page of this volume. The father was called to his final rest in 1903, but the mother still survives, making her home in this county. Their family numbered eleven children. J. L. Bible finished his education at, Roscoe Ohio, and at the age of nineteen years began teaching school, being thus engaged for four years. Two years of that time were spent in Illinois and he was very successful in his work as an educator. He also has a creditable military record, -serving for three years in the Spanish-American war as sergeant of Company M, Fifteenth Infantry, eleven months being spent in Cuba. At expiration of his service he returned to the state of his nativity and for one year was employed in the machine shop of Kegy St Leer. He was married about this time and subsequent to that important event in his life he removed to Pitts- 144 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY burg, Pennsylvania, where he worked for the Westinghouse Electric Manufacturing Company for three years. On the expiration of that period he took the civil service' examination and served for four years as letter carrier in Pittsburg. Returning to Coshocton county, he has here since resided and now operates a rich and productive farm of two hundred and nineteen acres in Keene township. In addition to the work of the fields he makes a specialty of raising sheep and is widely recognized as a progressive and enterprising agriculturist of the community. Mr. Bible was joined in wedlock to Miss Ida M. Reamer, whose birth occurred in Keene township, December 23, 1872, her parents being H. P. and Nancy E. (Kent) Reamer, both natives of Coshocton county. The father, who was born September 1, 1845, passed away on the 1st of February, 1906, while the mother, whose birth occurred in 1852, resides in Keene township. Their five children were as follows: Mrs. Bible; Lula. M., the wife of Andrew English, of Coshocton; and Grace E., Henry W. and Bernice, all of whom are deceased. Unto our subject and his wife has been born one daughter, Thelma E., whose natal day was August 31, 1906. Mr. Bible gives stalwart allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy, but has never been an office seeker, preferring to devote his time and attention to his private interests. Fraternally he is connected with the Odd Fellows lodge, No. 446, at Pittsburg, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, with which his wife is also identified. They are well known and highly esteemed throughout the county of their nativity, having gained the warm regard and friendship of all with whom they have come in contact. LOUIS KOSSUTH BEACH. While comparatively few men attain noble distinction in military or political circles, the field of business' is limitless and offers substantial rewards to the man who has the perseverance and energy. This statement finds verification in the life record of Louis K. Beech, who owns and controls one of the most thoroughly equipped merchant tailoring establishments in Coshocton county. 'Conversant with the trade in every department he has gradually worked his way upward until his business today is one of the important commercial enterprises of the city and returns to the, owner a gratifying annual income. Mr. Beach was born in Fredericktown, Knox county, Ohio, December 15, 1851, a son of Daniel Faren Cockrel and Lucy Eliza (Amedon) Beach. The father was born June 12, 1819, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and was a son of Ebenezer Beach, also a native of that state. Daniel F. C. Beach was reared in Newark, New Jersey, to the age of fifteen years, and when a youth of thirteen began learning the tailor's trade in that city. Two years later he went to Brooklyn, New York, where he continued to work at his trade until 1844, when he removed to Knox county, Ohio. In -1862 he established business on his own account in Mount Ver- HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 145 non, Ohio, as a merchant tailor and clothier, and the following year removed to Coshocton, where he acted as cutter in different houses until 1872. In that year he embarked in business on his own account, opening the merchant tailoring establishment, which has since been conducted under the name of Beach and which from the beginning has been one of the leading enterprises of this character in the city, Louis K. Beach becoming proprietor at his father's death, in 1882. The death of Mrs. Beach occurred in July, 1878. In the family were six children : Alice, now deceased; Henry Dennis; Louis Kossuth; Lillie Dale, the wife of V. A. Hawthorne, of St. Paul, Minnesota; Frank ; and James, deceased. Louis K. Beach is indebted to the public school system of Ohio for the educational privileges he enjoyed in his youth. He also spent one year as a student in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and in 1863, accompanied his parents on their removal to Coshocton, where he continued his education in the city schools until his sixteenth year. He then entered upon an apprenticeship in the tailoring establishment of his father, Daniel Beach, who was then recognized as the leading cutter and tailor of this city. He also received training in Mitchell's Cutting School of New York city and became an expert in his line. As his father's successor he has developed and enlarged the business and today has an extensive patronage. On the 19th of March, 1878, in Coshocton, Mr. Beach was married to Miss Matilda Richeson Poland, who was born December 13, 1856, at Canal Lewisville in Coshocton county. Their children are: they Lorene, assistant librarian in the Coshocton public library; and Clifton Carr, who is associated with his father in business, being now manager of the L. K. Beach Merchant Tailoring establishment. He was married September 23, 1903, to Martha Edith Bell of this city. In his political views L. K. Beach has always been a democrat, but the honors and emoluments of office have had no attraction for him. He has preferred to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs and other interests. In 1889 he became a member of the Odd Fellows society of Coshocton and he is also a Scottish Rite Mason, while of the Elks lodge, also of Coshocton, he is a charter member. Residing in this city for forty-five years he is widely known here, and the measure of respect accorded him indicates that his life has been an honorable and upright one. In his business career he has placed, his dependence upon the substantial qualities of perseverance, determination and a ready use of opportunities, and in the conduct of his commercial interest . has met with signal success. S. P. WOODWARD. Few men are more prominent or more widely known in the enterprising village of Plainfield than. Mr. Woodward who, since 1882, has been a leading factor in its mercantile circles. He was born in Tuscarawas county, this state, July 5, 1844, a son of Rev. J. M. and Tamar (Dickens) Wood- 146 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY ward. The father was born in Harrison county, Ohio, and the, mother in Bedford county, Pennsylvania. The father came to Coshocton county in 1863, after which he lived for a short time in Morgan, Knox, Licking, Jefferson, Harrison, Muskingum and Guernsey counties, returning in 1885 to Coshocton county, where he spent his remaining days in ministerial work, passing away here in 1895. By this marriage there were born two children, the elder being Sarah J., the wife of Henry Shipley, of Franklin county, this state, while, the younger is S. P., of this review. The wife and mother died in 1846, and the father was married again, his second union being with Mary 1). Dickens, a sister of his first wife. This union was blessed with four children: George II., of St. Louis, Missouri; H. R., of Delaware, this state; J. C., deceased; and Mary Ann, who makes her home in Plainfield. Mrs. Woodward was called to her final rest in October, 1899. S. P. Woodward, whose name, introduces this record, was but two years of age at the time of his mother's demise and accompanied his father on his various removals occasioned by his ministerial duties. He acquired his education in the various districts in which the family made their home and at the age of sixteen years engaged in teaching, following the profession for four years, or until 1864, when he offered his services to the government during the progress of the Civil war. He enlisted as a member of Company E, One Hundred and Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving for one hundred days. On the expiration of that period he returned to his home in Coshocton county and resumed teaching, following the same for two years, or until 1866, in which year he was married to Miss Bell Brelsford, who was born in this county in 1850, a daughter of David and Catharine (Thomas) Brelsford, whose family numbered five children. The father was born in the Keystone state, whence he came to Coshocton county in an early day., and engaged in general merchandising in Plainfield. Following his marriage Mr. Woodward began clerking in his father-in-law's store, where he continued until November, 1871, when he engaged in merchandising on his own account, carrying on a successful business until 1874. In that year he disposed of his stock of goods and once more engaged in teaching, which he followed until 1882, when he again took up the mercantile business in Plainfield, in which he continues to the present time. In the, years that have come and gone he has built up a large and lucrative patronage, owing to his well selected stock of goods, which meets the demands of the public, his reasonable prices and his straightforward business methods. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Woodward has been blessed with three children, two sons and one daughter, namely: J. D. and C. B., who are engaged in the milling business in Plainfield and whose sketches appear elsewhere in this work; and Vernie L., the wife of E. R. Kinner, who is also mentioned on another page of this volume. The wife and mother was called to her final rest in 1901. Mr. Woodward gives his political support to the men and, measures of the democratic party and has been called by his fellowmen to fill some public HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 147 offices. He served as justice of the peace for three years and as township clerk for seven years and has been a member of the village council, while he has also served as a member of the school 'board, in all of which positions he has discharged his duties with the same promptness that he displays in his private business affairs. Mr. Woodward belongs to lodge, No. 224, A. F. & A. M., at Plainfield, in which he has filled all of the chairs; and Samaritan Chapter, No. 50, R. A. M. He is also -a charter member of lodge, No. 776, I. O. O. F., at Plainfield, and is identified with W. C. Workman Post, No. 320, G. A. R. In the field of political life and commercial activity Mr. Woodward has won distinction, and today is numbered among the leading, influential and honored citizens of Plainfield. D. C. LAWRENCE. D. C. Lawrence, a representative of the agricultural interests of this county, was born on the farm on which he now resides on the 12th of February, 1864. His grandparents, Jesse and Susanna (Farwell) Lawrence, who were of Scotch descent, made the Overland journey from New Hampshire to this county in 1831 with ox teams: After residing in Keene township for about a year they removed to Mill Creek township, where the grandfather entered the farm which is now in possession of our subject. Jesse Lawrence was one of the early postmasters in Mill Creek township, his home being located on the old state road between Coshocton and Millersburg. He passed away on his farm, and the county was thus called upon to mourn the loss of one of its worthy pioneer settlers and prominent citizens. George W. Lawrence, the father of D. C. Lawrence, was a native of Cheshire county, New Hampshire, where his birth occurred November 15, 1823, and lived on the old homestead farm in Mill Creek township until 1870, when he removed to Bloomfield, Coshocton county, where- he passed away in 1889. His political allegiance was given to the republican party, while, his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church: George W. Lawrence had been married three times. On the 28th of May, 1848, he wedded Miss Lydia Ross, whose birth occurred December 11, 1824, her parents being Nathan and Sarah Reiss. She passed away on the 12th of March, 1862, leaving two children to mourn her loss, namely: J. Ross, of Missouri, and Harry, a resident of Millersburg, Ohio. On the 5th of March, 1863, George W. Lawrence was again married, his second union being with Miss Rachel Cox, a daughter of Elijah and Christina (Sheplar) Cox. She was born in Harrison county, Ohio, March 8, 1832, and in childhood accompanied her parents on their removal to this county. She passed away in 1889 in the faith of the Baptist church, of which she had been a life long member. Her three children were as follows: D. C., of this review; William G., of Mill Creek township; and Jesse B., living in Bloomfield. George W. Lawrence was married again in Au- 148 - HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY gust, 1890, his third wife being Mrs. Irene Steadman, who now lives in Bloomfield. D. C. Lawrence was but six years of age when brought by his parents to Bloomfield, where he acquired his education in the public schools. He remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage and then began farming on his present place of one hundred and eighty acres in Mill Creek township, which he purchased from his father and which is the same tract of land that was entered by the grandfather in pioneer times. It has always remained in possession of the family. Mr. Lawrence has placed many substantial improvements thereon, including a commodious and attractive residence, and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the progressive and enterprising agriculturists of the community. On the, 10th of April, 1889, occurred the marriage of Mr. Lawrence and Miss Lula Carr, who was born in Mill Creek township, February, 26, 1869, her parents being John W. and Hester (Duncan) Carr, the former a native of Clark township, Coshocton county, and the latter of Harrison county, Ohio. The father was called to his final rest on the 30th of May, 1902, when sixty-eight years of age, but the mother still survives and now makes her home in Coshocton. Unto this worthy couple were born seven children, namely: W. D., of Mill Creek township; Mrs. Lawrence; Charles, a resident of the village of Keene; Frank and John L., both of Coshocton; Joseph, living in Akron, Ohio; and Ross, of Wayne county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence have two children, Ross K., born April 18, 1890; and Jay W., whose natal day was March 28, 1895. Mr. Lawrence votes for the men and measures of the republican party, and has served as township clerk and in various school Offices, ever discharging his public duties in prompt and capable manner. Both he and his wife are devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Bloomfield, and have gained the .confidence and warm regard of all with whom they have been associated. From pioneer times the name of Lawrence has figured honorably in agricultural circles of this county and he whose name initiates this review is successfully carrying forward the work that was begun by his grandfather eighty-two years ago. ELISHA COMPTON. Elisha Compton, a retired agriculturist of Jackson township, was born in Culpeper county, Virginia, on the 9th of September, 1816, his parents being George and Sarah (Duke) Compton, who were of Irish ancestry. He was reared on a farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist, and after attaining man's estate he chose the occupation of farming as a life work. For many years he was successfully identified with farming interests, but is now living retired on a farm near Roscoe, making his home with his son, Reason T. HISTORY OF COSHOCTON COUNTY - 149 On the 9th of December, 1841, Mr. Compton was united in marriage to Miss Hulda Ann Hays, a daughter of Jeremiah Hays, of Virginia township, Coshocton county, Ohio. They became the parents of nine children, namely: John; Mary Ann; R. T.; Jeremiah; George, deceased; Harvey; Eliza Jane and Alice, who have also passed away; and Camilla. In the year 1880 Mr. Compton was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife. Although he has now passed the ninety-second milestone on life's journey, Mr. Compton possesses the health and vitality of a man of much younger years. He can look back over a well spent, active and honorable life and richly merits the respect and esteem' which are uniformly accorded him. LISTER POMERENE, M.D. Dr. Lister Pomerene, whose broad knowledge of the science of medicine and deep sympathy with the sick and suffering has made one of the most capable physicians of Coshocton, was born in Berlin, Holmes county, Ohio, November 26, 1867. His father, Peter Pomerene, was also a physician and a native of Holmes county, Ohio. Family tradition has it that the founder of the family in America was a French youth, Julius Pomerene, who ran away from home, was secreted by LaFayette on one of his vessels and, after the arrival of the French troops in the new world, served with the American forces through the Revolutionary war, one account claiming that he held the rank of sergeant under General LaFayette. After the close of the war he' became a resident of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and was there married to Magdalena Heller, a German lady. Dr. Peter Pomerene devoted his entire life to the practice of medicine and attained much more than local distinction in that line. He became professor of operative obstetrics in the Ohio Medical University of Columbus, filling the position for two years prior to his death, which occurred November 29, 1892. He married Elizabeth Wise, a native of Holmes county, Ohio, who survived him for about twelve years and died in the fall of 1904. Dr. Lister Pomerene was a student in the village schools of Berlin, Ohio, in his boyhood days, and afterward matriculated in the preparatory department of the Wooster University at Wooster, this state. Subsequently he pursued the work of the freshman year in the university and afterward entered Princeton University, from which he was graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in 1888, while in 1891 he received the master of arts degree from the same institution. Determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work he spent one term as a student in the Columbus Medical College and one season in the Bellevue Hospital Medical College. He next entered the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, Kentucky, and was graduated with the M.D. degree in 1891. In the meantime he had spent one year in his father's office in. Berlin and, assisting him in practice, had added the benefits of actual experience to his theoretical training. Following his