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graduation he immediately joined his father in practice and when the father died eighteen months later Dr. Lister Pomerene continued in practice with his brother, Dr. H. P. Pomerene. They were associated for ten years, at the end of which time the partnership was dissolved and in January, 1905, Dr. Pomerene of this review removed to Coshocton. He had spent the winter of 1903 and 1904 in Saint Alexis Hospital at Cleveland, Ohio, pursuing a post-graduate course. He has built up a very large practice in Coshocton, his extensive patronage coming to him as an expression of the trust and confidence reposed in him by the general public. He is constantly broadening his knowledge by research and investigation, and he belongs to the Coshocton Medical
Society and the Ohio State Medical Society.
On the 27th of December, 1905, Dr. Pomerene was married to Miss Laura G. Whiteley, of Sombra, Ontario. The hospitality of many of the best homes of this locality is freely accorded them, and their circle of friends is constantly increasing. Dr. Pomerene votes with the democracy, but has never sought nor desired office. A constantly increasing patronage makes heavy demands upon his time and attention, and his devotion to the interests of his patients is proverbial. He manifests a sense of conscientious obligation in all of his professional work, and the excellent results which have attended his labors are proof of his ability.
MRS. MARILLA J. FOSTER.
Mrs. Marina J. Foster well deserves mention in this volume, for she is an estimable lady and a worthy representative of one of the, old and prominent pioneer families of Coshocton county. She is a' native of the Buckeye state, born in Tuscarawas county in 1846, the only child of George and Sarah A. (Beall) Stewart. The father was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, February 15, 1815, while the mother's birth occurred in Guernsey county, this state, in 1825. Their marriage occurred June 9, 1844. In 1853 the father removed with his family, consisting of wife and one child, to Coshocton county and purchased a tract of land near Lafayette, comprising two hundred and forty acres, which was wild and unimproved. With characteristic energy he cleared and developed the land and in due course of time made it a valuable property. For a long period he was connected with the agricultural interests of this section of the state, and in addition to his interests in this line he was a dealer in stock, driving his cattle over the mountains to New York city, where they were sold. He was a stanch supporter of the republican platform and was active in politics. He was a devoted and consistent member of the Presbyterian church and died in that faith, June 19, 1893. The mother, however, still survives at the age of eighty-three years and makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Foster, in West Lafayette.
Marilla J. Stewart was a little maiden of eight years when she was brought by her parents to Coshocton county and here she was given ex-
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cellent educational advantages. She was reared under the parental roof until the time of her marriage, when on the 19th of March, 1865, she became the wife of Henry H. Foster. She today derives a good financial income from one hundred and one acres of land situated in Lafayette township, while she also owns a beautiful residence in West Lafayette and thirteen acres of land, which has been subdivided into town lots.
Henry H. Foster was born in. Lancaster, Yorkshire county, England, October 11, 1841, and was but six months old. when he was brought by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Foster, to America. Upon reaching the United States the parents spent a short time in New ;York city, whence they made their way to Harrison county, Ohio, where they remained until April, 1843. They then took up their abode in New Comerstown, Tuscarawas county, where the father was engaged at carpentering and cabinetmaking until November, 1846, when he was called to his final rest. The son was at that time about four years of age and he was then reared by his mother, who was left with a family of six small children.
At the early age of eight years Henry B. Foster started out to make his own way in the world, being employed, at farm labor during the spring and summer months, while for ,about three months during the winter seasons he pursued his studies in the district schools. lie spent two years in this way, receiving as a compensation for his services only his board and a scant amount of clothing On the expiration of that period he went to Cleveland, Ohio, where lived a brother, John B. Foster. The brother was engaged in the fruit business, Henry H. Foster selling the, same on the streets of that city, receiving a commission on his sales. In this way he managed to save eight dollars, which he considered almost a fortune, as it was the first money he had ever earned. However, this money was stolen, so that he was again left penniless and had to begin life anew. In the fall of 1852 he left Cleveland for New Comerstown, where his mother still lived,. traveling by canal boat, a journey of ten days, and paying for his passage by doing chores on the boat. In 1854 the, mother was married, her second union being with John Coles. The son remained under the parental roof during the winter months, his time being devoted to study in the common schools, while during the summer seasons he was employed at farm labor until the spring of 1858. He then became apprenticed to Franklin Fleming, of West Lafayette,, for a term of three years to learn the boot and shoe trade, he to receive as compensation his board and' twenty dollars for the first year's work, forty dollars for the second and sixty dollars for the third and last year's work. Before his term of indenture had expired Mr. Fleming retired from business and Mr. Foster then worked two months for Thornton Fleming, a brother of his former employer. At the end of that time he spent some little time as a journeyman shoemaker. At Cadiz, Ohio, he spent three months with a shoemaker by the name of John Bay, under whom he acquired a more thorough knowledge of his trade.
It was about this time that the Civil war broke out and Mr. Foster, aroused by a spirit of patriotism, 'offered his services to the government, enlisting July 30, 1861, as a member of Company B, Thirtieth Ohio Volunteer
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Infantry, for three years. He participated in many of the most important engagements of the war, these including Carnifax Ferry, West Virginia, September 10, 1861; Bull Run, July 28-30, 1862; South Mountain, September 11, 1862; Antietam, September 16-18, 1862; and Vicksburg, May 20, 1863. In the latter engagement he received a gunshot wound in the right leg just below the knee, after which he was taken to a hospital in Memphis, where he remained for three months. In August of that year he was granted a furlough of thirty days. He then returned to his mother's home in Ohio and after recuperating his health to some degree he once more reported for duty but was sent to a hospital in Cincinnati, where he remained until the 10th of December, 1863. During the remainder of the winter he was at Camp Denison, and in May, 1864, wos honorably discharged, after which he returned to his home in West Lafayette.
During the winter of 1864 and the summer of 1865 he engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes, and on the 19th of March of the latter year was united in marriage to Miss Marilla J. Stewart. In 1866 they removed to Columbus, Ohio, where Mr. Foster sought any employment that would yield him an honest living, working in various ways for a few years. Later he secured the position of guard at the Ohio Penitentiary, receiving sixty-five dollars per month for his services. He was thus employed until April, 1869, when he engaged as a clerk in the bakery and confectionery store of Craig Suydam. After a few months, however, he removed with his family to Uhrichsville, Ohio, where he purchased a stock of boots and shoes and engaged in business on his own account. He had no money with which to make, the purchase but such was his honesty and integrity that his personal notes were accepted for the amount of twenty-eight hundred dollars. At the end of two years he liquidated the entire amount and had also replenished his stock of goods, for his patronage had now reached large and mammoth proportions. He was engaged in business at that place for about twelve years, and during that time became an• active factor in the development and up-building of the city. He became a wealthy man and in the last few months of his life was engaged in the stock business, owning at the time of his death thirteen hundred head of cattle on a ranch in the Indian Territory.
He was a stanch republican and took a lively interest in political affairs. He was also a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Uhrichsville and gave substantial aid as a member of the building committee at the time of the erection of the new house of worship and the parsonage at that place. He also filled the offices of trustee and steward of the church and at one time acted as superintendent of the Sunday school. Mr. Foster died in the prime of life, passing away October 22, 1882, at the comparatively early age of forty-one years. Although more than a quarter of a century has passed since he departed this life he is still remembered by many as an upright and honorable man. Kindness was the motive of his life and like all who walk through life on a higher plane than the great majority of his fellows, his companionship was select rather than large; but the many who looked up to and respected him realized as fully as did the few who were near him that a true man had fallen.
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The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Foster was blessed with two daughters: Manilla V., the wife of J. M. Gale, a druggist of Kansas City, Missouri; and Henrietta, the wife of H. E. Culbertson, a contractor of Cleveland, Ohio. Mrs. Foster now makes her home in West Lafayette, her mother residing with her. Mrs. Foster is a lady of culture and refinement and she has a host of warm and admiring friends in West Lafayette, while the hospitality of her own beautiful home is greatly enjoyed by all with whom she is associated.
BENTON DAVIS.
Benton Davis, who is a retired agriculturist residing in West Lafayette, was born in Lafayette township, Coshocton county, Ohio, September 7, 1846, his parents being John Davis and Anna M. (Bassett) Davis, the former born in Albany county, New York, in 1799, while the latter was also a native of that county, her birth having occurred in 1815. They were married in the Empire state in 1831. and the following year came to Coshocton county, Ohio, where they purchased a farm of one hundred and thirty-three acres in Lafayette township. There was one cleared field on the place, and also a log cabin, in which the father reared his family and made his home on this farm until called to his final rest. In his farming interests he met with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity, in spite of the fact that he was a cripple, for he had broken his leg when a boy and also had a deformed shoulder. All who came in contact with him, however, agreed with a statement made by his son Benton, who said that "he had as fine a head on his shoulders as any man he ever knew." Both he and his wife were life-long members of the Methodist Protestant church, in the work of which he took an active and helpful part. His wife passed away in 1895 when eighty years of age, and he survived her until 1903, being ninety-four years old when called to the home beyond. Their family numbered eight children, only two of whom are still living, namely: Mary D., the wife of W. C. Nealy, of Corapolis, Pennsylvania; and Benton, of this review.
Benton Davis was reared to the pursuits of the farm, and supplemented his common-school education by attending Muskingum College for a year and a half, after which he was a student at Vermilion Institute in Ashland county, Ohio, for six months. On putting aside his text-books he returned home and took up the work of farming in connection with his father. Some years prior to his death the father deeded his farm to our subject, who still retains possession of the property. He now owns three hundred acres of finely improved land, in the cultivation of which he was successfully and profitably engaged until his retirement from active business life. In addition to the work of general farming he also carried on stock-raising on an extensive scale, both branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income. In 1907 he removed to Lafayette and has here erected a
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beautiful home entirely constructed of timber which was cut from his farm the interior finishings being in quarter-sawed oak.
In September, 1873, Mr. Davis was united in marriage to Miss Blanch Brelsford, a native of Plainfield, Ohio, and a. daughter of David and Catherine (Thomas) Brelsford, both of whom were born in this county. For a number of years David Brelsford carried on merchandising in Plainfield, and at that place both he and his wife died. They had five children, as follows: Mrs. Davis; Elma, the wife of Hiram Fowler, of Linton township; David, who resides in Coshocton, Ohio; C. J., also living in Coshocton county; and one who is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Davis have also become the parents of five children : Brelsford, Steven H., Mary, Blanch and Edward E.
Mr. Davis is a stalwart advocate of the principles of democracy and ,has taken an active part in the local work of his party, his fellow townsmen calling him to various 'positions of public trust and responsibility. He has held all the township offices, has served as justice of the peace and is now acting for the second term as county commissioner. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic lodge at Lafayette, and also belongs to the Grangers. Both he and his wife are faithful and devoted members of the Methodist Protestant church, and are well known and highly respected throughout their native county, being worthy representatives of honored pioneer families of this section of the state.
LYMAN C. McCURDY, M.D.
Lyman C. McCurdy, physician and surgeon of Coshocton, was born in Bedford township this county, March 16, 1867. His parents were John and Rebecca (Johnson) McCurdy and the former, who devoted his entire life to farming, died on the farm on which he was born. It was during the pioneer epoch in the history of the county that the grandfather of Dr. McCurdy arrived here, coming from Philadelphia. He purchased two sections of land in Bedford township and owned a part of this at the time of his demise. He married Jane Richie, who was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, and both lived to an old age.
Dr. McCurdy entered upon his professional career well equipped for the responsible duties which devolved upon him He had mastered the elementary branches of learning as a pupil in the district school near his father's home and afterward attended the West Bedford high ,school. He was an apt and thorough student and at the age of nineteen years began teaching, which profession he followed for six years, giving general satisfaction by his ability to impart clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. While he was still connected with educational interests he took up the study of medicine, his reading being directed by his brother, Dr. H. R. McCurdy. In the fall of 1891 he entered the Wooster Medical College at Cleveland, spending two years in that institution, after which he matriculated in the Ohit Medical College at Cincinnati, and was
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there graduated with the class of 1894. In the winter of 1902-3 he took a post-graduate course in the New York Post-Graduate College and throughout the period of his connection with the medical profession he has remained a thorough and discriminating student, reading broadly in order to better qualify himself for the onerous duties which devolve upon him
In the summer of 1894 Dr. McCurdy opened an office in Moscow and began the practice of his profession, Although located in a small village, he soon became widely known as an able physician and built up a large and remunerative practice. He remained at his original location for ten years, when, seeking a still broader field of labor, he came to Coshocton in September, 1904, and has since demonstrated his right to he classed with the ablest members of the medical fraternity in Coshocton county. Conscientious in the performance of 'every duty, possessing a thorough knowledge of the component parts of the human body and the onslaughts made upon it by disease, he has in his round of professional calls shown marked aptitude in choosing the necessary remedial agency and in prescribing methods of care in the sickroom that have produced excellent results. He belongs to both the Coshocton County Medical Society and the Ohio State Medical Society.
On the 22d of November, 1905, Dr. McCurdy married Miss Melissa. Buker, of Otsego, Ohio, and they are pleasantly located in an attractive home in Coshocton. Dr. McCurdy votes with the democracy and holds membership with the Presbyterian church. His salient characteristics command for him the confidence and good will of the public in general, as well as professional lines and all who know him acknowledge, that his success is justly merited.
S. D. BECK.
S. D. Beck represents one of the most important business interests of Warsaw, being proprietor and owner of the Warsaw Roller Mills. He was born in Holmes county, Ohio, March 28, 1847, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Beck. He lost his parents when quite young and therefore little is known of the family history. His father was born in the Buckeye state. and his early life was devoted to the manufacture of woolen goods, and at the time of his death he had in course of construction a flourmill at Beck's Mills, Ohio. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Beck numbered five children, two daughters and three sons, namely : Katherine, deceased; . D., of this review ; J. A., who is engaged in farming in Clinton county, Michigan ; Elizabeth, the wife of Michael Keiser, who is engaged in milling and farming in Bloomfield, Ohio ; and C. E., who is a farmer of Michigan.
After the death of his parents . D. Beck went to live with an. uncle by whom he was reared and educated. After completing his education in the common schools he entered a woolen mill, where he became familiar with the manufacture of woolen goods. At the age of twenty-two years he
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started out on his own account and engaged in the manufacture of flour, which he has continued to the present time. He was first engaged in business in Holmes county, but thirteen years ago came to Warsaw and purchased a half interest in the Warsaw Roller Mills, his partner being B. F. Bumgartner. Three years ago Mr. Beck purchased his partner's interest and has since conducted the business alone, the capacity of the mill being sixty barrels daily. He has worked earnestly and persistently in building up his business to its present volume. The mill is supplied with modern machinery and his products find a ready sale on the market.
Mr. Beck was married in 1871, the lady of his choice being Miss Martha Savilla Frederick, a native of Coshocton county, who, by her marriage has become the mother of four children, as follows: Benjamin Eugene, who is engaged in milling in Spokane, Washington; Florence Edna, the wife of H. C., Myers,. who is employed by Mr. Beck in the mill; Frank H., at home; and Olive May, also under the parental roof.
Mr. Beck gives his political support to the republican party and served as justice of the peace at Princeton for two years. He is a school director, the cause of education finding in him a warm friend. He holds membership in Warsaw Lodge, No. 155, F. & A. M., at Spring Mountain, in which he has passed through all the different chairs. He is also a member of the State Millers Association. He possesses untiring energy and his close application to business and his excellent management have brought to him the high degree of prosperity which is today his. He possesses the enterprising spirit of the west, which has been a dominant factor in producing the wonderful development of this section of the country and he has steadily worked his way upward until today he stands among the successful business men, not only of Warsaw but of Coshocton. county.
G. W. AMORE.
G. W. Amore, a successful merchant of Plainfield, was born in West Lafayette, Coshocton county, Ohio, January 6, 1854, his parents being William and Charlotte (Reed) Amore, the former a native of Troy, New York, and the latter of Ohio. The father passed away in 1898, having for a number of years survived his wife, whose demise occurred in 1862. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely : William H., of Roscoe, Ohio ; G. W., of this review; Charles, Lewis C. and Oliver, all of whom are deceased; and one who died in infancy.
G. W. Amore acquired a common-school education and when sixteen years of age started out in life for himself as a farm hand, being thus engaged for twenty years. Subsequently he was connected with the butchering business at Plainfield for a time, and afterward established a boot, shoe and harness store at the same place, having thus been successfully identified with mercantile interests to the present time. His well selected stock of goods, as well as his reliable and straightforward business methods, have
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brought to him a liberal patronage and he is now numbered among the prosperous and enterprising merchants of his native county.
In 1878 Mr. Amore was united in marriage to Miss Catherine C. Burden, a native of Coshocton county, who was one of a family of eight children. This union has been blessed with six, children, namely: Stanley, at home; Bertha, the wife of J. D. Woodward, of Plainfield, Ohio; and Charles C., Grover, Georgiana and Jessie, all of whom are still under the parental roof.
In his political views Mr. Amore is a stalwart democrat and has served as assessor of Linton township for three terms. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Plainfield, in the work of which they take an active and helpful interest. Throughout his entire life or for more than a half century Mr. Amore has now resided in this county and, owing to his upright and honorable career,‘ the circle of his friends is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.
SAMUEL L. WAGGONER.
Samuel L. Waggoner, a large landowner and extensive stock-raiser of Oxford township, was born February 18, 1831, on the farm on which he still resides, his parents being William and Agnes (McGuire) Waggoner. The father, a native of Pennsylvania; was born in 1794, and in his boyhood accompanied his father on his removal to Coshocton county, Ohio. The grandfather purchased eighteen hundred acres of land, four hundred acres of which was situated on the present site of Coshocton, which he prophesied would develop into a thriving town. William Waggoner was reared on a farm and carried on agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. He received one hundred and ninety-seven acres of land from his father and gradually added to his holdings as the years passed by until at the time of his death he was the owner of five hundred acres. He was a prominent and influential citizen of his community and took an active part in public 'affairs, serving as justice of the peace for twenty-one years and also as township trustee. He passed away in 1854, while his wife, a native of Virginia, was called to her final rest in 18M. They had two children, one of 'whom is now deceased.
Samuel L. Waggoner acquired but a limited education, for he was able to attend school for only about three months during the winter season, his assistance being needed in the work of the home farm. In the school of experience, however, he has learned many valuable lessons and by reading and observation has gained much practical knowledge. When twenty-three years of age his father died and then he started out for himself. That he has met with a large degree of prosperity is indicated by the fact that he now owns eight hundred and eighty-two and a half acres of rich and productive land, two hundred and twenty-three acres of which lies in Lafayette township and
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the remainder in Oxford township. He attributes his success in large measure to his stock-raising interests, being an extensive breeder of fine wool sheep. His flock averages seven hundred head, which he has always kept up to the highest possible standard, being one of the first men in this county to purchase high priced stock for breeding purposes. He raises cattle, hogs, sheep and horses and also carries on the work of the fields to some extent, though he has rented the greater part of his land to his sons and others. There stands in the yard a magnificent specimen of the sycamore tree, which is exactly the same age as Mr. Waggoner. The main body of the tree is five feet in diameter and, rising .solidly about ten feet, it parts into seven enormous branches, each ranging from sixty to eighty feet in length. One branch, measuring sixty-five feet from the main body of the tree to its tip, grows straight over the road. This grand old monarch of the forest is highly prized by our subject and adds not a little to the attractiveness and beauty of its surroundings.
In September, 1855, Mr. Waggoner was joined in wedlock to Miss Ann Jane Culbertson, whose birth occurred in Coshocton, July 4, 1832, and who passed away in 1903. Her parents, Alexander and Isabelle (Wilson) Culbertson, were natives of Lafayette township and Mill Creek township respectively. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Waggoner were born nine children, namely: Agnes, the wife of. John Scott, of Hanover, Ohio; Camille, deceased; William A., a resident of California; Mary, the wife of David Angle, of Oxford township; McClelland and Francis N., both living in Oxford township; Culbertson, of Cleveland, Ohio; George, likewise a resident of California; and one who died in infancy.
Mr. Waggoner was formerly a democrat in his political views but now supports the men and measures of the republican party where national questions and issues are involved. He is a faithful and devoted member of the Methodist Protestant church, with which his wife was also identified. Throughout his entire life, or for more than seventy-seven years, he has made his home in Coshocton county and for a long period has been widely recognized as one of its most substantial and progressive citizens, now receiving the veneration and respect which should always be accorded one who has traveled thus far on life's journey and whose career has ever been upright and honorable.
MILTON S. MARQUAND.
Milton Marquand, who since the first of March, 1908, has conducted a meat market in Warsaw, is a native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred on a farm in Franklin township, Coshocton county, March 6, 1877, he being the seventh in order of birth in a family of nine children, born of the marriage of James S. and Mary E. (Cave) Marquand.
The father was also born in Coshocton county and in early life followed .farming. Later he engaged in merchandising in Conesville, Coshoc-
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ton county, Ohio, in which he continued for many years, or until his demise, May 26, 1901. He was a republican in his political views and held a number of township offices. He was a successful business man, respected by all who knew him and his death was deeply regretted by the entire community. The wife and mother survived for only a short period, her death occurring August 4, 1902, and both lie buried in South Lawn cemetery, Coshocton. The record of their children is as follows: Carrie, the widow of J. H. Beck, and a resident of Conesville; Alice, the wife of P. C. Shipps, a gardener living near Coshocton; E. U., who is. practicing medicine in Conesville; R. H., a resident of West Lafayette, Ohio; Katie, the wife of E. J. Robinson, who operates the old Marquand homestead in, Franklin township; B. A., who is also practicing medicine, at Roswell Ohio ; Milton S., of this review; Blanch, the wife of J. V. Smailes, of New Moscow, where he is engaged in farming; and Grace, the wife of R. M. Lanning, a dispatcher for the Baltimore Si Ohio Railroad Company at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
M. S. Marquand, the subject of this review, was educated in the schools of Conesville and in the business college in Coshocton. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, remaining with his father until he reachcd his maturity. He then engaged in the mercantile business in Conesville, which he conducted successfully for seven and one-half years, but in January he went to West Lafayette, where for a short period he was engaged in the livery business.. He then returned to farm life, having purchased -a tract of land comprising. sixty acres in Bethlehem, township, which he operated until the 1st of March, 1908. On that day he took up his abode in Warsaw, opening a meat market, which he has conducted to, the present time. He has built up a large patronage and is numbered among the successful business men of this city.
Mr. Marquand was married in 1906 to Miss Mary N. Giffen, a resident of New Castle township, Coshocton county. Mr. Marquand gives his political support to the republican party, and for two terms served as assessor of Franklin township. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias at Coshocton, and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His success has been by no means the result of fortunate circumstances. It has come to him through energy, labor and perseverance, directed by an evenly balanced mind and by honest business principles, and today he stands among the successful and prominent business men of Warsaw.
HENRY D. MINNICK.
Henry D. Minnick is one whose life has been continuously spent in railroad service and who through determined purpose and strict integrity won rapid promotion from one position of responsibility to another until he is today well known in the railway circles of Coshocton, Knox and Holmes counties. Mr. Minnick was born in Newcastle, Pennsylvania, February 26, 1855, a son of David and Sarah (Irwin) Minnick. The father was agent
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for the Adams Express Company at Alliance, Ohio, for many years and was also for a long. period located in Millersburg, this state.
Henry D. Minnick acquired his education in the public schools of Massillon, Ohio, and was reared amid the surroundings of a railroad life. He consequently chose such a life upon starting out to make his own way in the world and at the age of fourteen years served as brakeman on the division of the Fort Wayne road running between Alliance and Massillon, this being known as the Dutch Local, owing to the fact that the entire crew on this train were Germans. Through the inherent force of his nature and the utilization of opportunities Mr. Minnick passed from one position to another and at the age of nineteen years was a fireman on the Cleveland, Akron & Columbus Railroad, while at the age of twenty-five years he was promoted to the position of engineer. He served in that capacity for several years and then made a change in his work, having for the past three years been in charge of the engine of the Coshocton Coal Company.
On the 7th of April, 1873, Mr. Minnick was married to Miss Catherine Smith, a daughter of Frederick and Julia A. Smith, of Massillon, Ohio. Their union has been blessed with eight children: Harry E., Adelaide C., Gertrude, Blandena, Lewis D., Rhea K., Eva and Florence, and they also have eight grandchildren.
Mr. Minnick's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give hearty support to the democratic party. He takes a deep interest in public affairs and is a highly respected citizen, while of the company by which he is employed he is known as a faithful and trusted employe.
DR. MARION HOMER GOODHART.
Dr. Marion Romer Goodhart, whose life, actuated by high and manly principles, has made him one of the respected citizens of Coshocton with a large circle of warm friends, was born near Zanesville, Ohio, February 28, 1877. He is a representative of an old family, many members of which have, won renown as scholars, and good citizens. The Goodhart family is of German lineage, the ancestors living near Berlin, whence Henry Good-hart, grandfather of Dr. Goodhart, started for America in company with his parents, the family home being established in the state of Virginia. Dr. Goodhart is the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Goodhart. His mother was a daughter of the late Divver McMillen and a granddaughter of Richard J. Hogan, who in the early '50s was an attorney and justice of the peace in Muskingum county, Ohio, and who had the honor of performing the marriage ceremony of President, and Mrs. James A. Garfield. Jacob Good-hart was an enterprising farmer and a great lover of nature. He found much enjoyment in rural life but for the past two decades he has been connected with mercantile interests as a stockholder in the National Biscuit Company.
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Dr. Goodhart's young life was spent in the woods in communion with nature in her simplest forms, and this association was not without its splendid results. The outdoor life made him a vigorous man, enabling him to cope with the demands made upon his strength and energies in later years. He was a youth of nine when he accompanied his parents on a southern tour covering a period of almost two years, after which they returned to the state of Ohio to become residents of Zanesville. Dr. Good-hart then entered the public schools of that city and at the age of eighteen had completed the course which constituted its curriculum. Soon afterward he, took up the study of law but cared little for the profession, his natural taste and tendency pointing to the study of anatomy. At that time, however, the way did not open for him to become a practitioner and he entered mercantile life, being connected with the Mosaic Tile Company until opportunity permitted him to take up his belayed study—that of anatomy—under the direction of Dr. G. C). McMillen, a neuro magnetic healer. He afterward became connected with Dr McMillen in founding the College of Neuro Magnetic Healing in Zanesville_ and was associated with the institution in its conduct and teachings, until May, 1905, when he withdrew and removed to Coshocton, where he has since been a very successful practitioner, a liberal patronage being accorded him.
On the 11th of June, 1902, Dr. Goodhart was married to Miss Nellie h. Presgraves, a lady of 'rare graces of heart and mind, whose pleasant manner and sincere cordiality wins her hosts of friends. She is the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Presgraves, of Roseville, who are noted for their piety and the integrity of their lives.
Dr. and Mrs. Goodhart are connected with the Methodist Episcopal church. His political support is given to the republican party and he is always loyal to its interests. He belongs to the Protected Home Circle and to the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks. His habits are those of early rising and abstemious living. He is always temperate and regards methodical habits as a valuable asset in acquiring health. He is simple and plain in dress and manner, thoroughly genuine and reliable. His friends find him a most entertaining companion and his salient characteristics are such as command for him uniform respect. The purity and nobility of his motives are never questioned and in all things he is guided by a desire to do right. In his profession he has met with success, while in every relation of life he has won the respect and unqualified confidence of those with whom he has come in contact.
JAMES SCOTT.
James Scott, a successful farmer and stock-raiser of Virginia township, was born on the 9th of November, 1851, his parents being James and Mary Green (Stockton) Scott. The father came from Donegal, Ireland, in 1833, when twenty-one years of age. His oldest brother, Matthew, had emigrated
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in 1816 to the new world about sixteen years previously and settled in Maryland with an uncle James, who had become a large slaveowner and very wealthy. Long before the Civil war, however, he freed all his slaves excepting one old servant named Ned, who refused to leave and remained with his master until he died. The two brothers, Matthew and James Scott, came west to Virginia township, Coshocton county, Ohio, and purchased about one thousand acres of military land. They at once began preparations for the coming of the other members of the family from Ireland and erected a house. This structure still stands, being occupied by Hamilton S. Scott and his family, while all the land originally purchased by Matthew and James Scott still remains in the Scott family. In 1834 the other members of the family left the Emerald Isle and, after making their way to this county, took up their abode in the home which had. been prepared for them. They were Matthew and Margaret Scott, the paternal grandparents of our subject, and their children, namely: Matthew, Samuel H., James, Hamilton, Catherine, Mary, Eliza and Margaret. The children who remained in Ireland were as follows: William, a Presbyterian minister; and Robert and Andrew, both of whom passed away on the Isle of Erin. The work of clearing the land for the purposes of cultivation was immediately begun and substantial improvements were placed upon the property. The unremitting industry, unfaltering energy and good management of the members of the Scott family in the development of their land soon resulted in abundant crops, and their prosperity and reputation gradually increased until they exerted a wonderful influence for good in the new community.
James Scott, whose name introduces this review, is a representative of the third generation of the family in this county and is a worthy scion of his race. His entire life has been passed upon the farm which is still his home. He acquired his education in a private school maintained by a few families in the neighborhood and later became a student in Wooster University. With his two sisters, Margaret A. and Mary E:, he occupies the old homestead. "Prospect," which, stands on a site commanding an excellent view of the broad Muskingum valley. The furnishings of the commodious and modern residence indicate a refined and cultured taste, while the warm-hearted hospitality dispensed by its inmates makes it a favorite resort with their many friends. The farm is admirably adapted to both general farming and stock-raising and is kept under a high state of cultivation, the fields annually returning golden harvests in return for the care and labor which is bestowed upon them. Large herds of cattle and great flocks of sheep graze in the pastures, and droves of hogs are also fed. In addition to his agricultural interests Mr. Scott is connected with various other enterprises, and is a stockholder and director in the People's Banking & Trust Company of Coshocton. He is a man of wide experience and broad information, inheriting the sterling qualities of his ancestors, both as regards ability and character.
Mr. Scott is a republican in his political views, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. A resident of Coshocton county throughout his entire life, he is thoroughly identified with
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its interests and is at all times ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any movement calculated to benefit this section of the country or advance its wonderful development.
MAJOR A. B. PLATT.
The history of a soldier has always inspired interest and enthusiasm from very earliest times, when battles were fought with bows and arrows down to the present, when invention has brought to a high degree of perfection the implements of warfare. Major Platt devoted almost the entire period of his manhood to active military, service in behalf of his country and is now upon the retired list, making his home in Coshocton. He has attained the Psalmist's span of three score years and ten, for his birth occurred November 23, 1838, in Plainfield, Linton township, Coshocton county. His parents were Thomas and Eliza Ann (Harbison) Platt, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume in connection with the his tory of Thomas Platt.
The boyhood days of Major Platt were spent at the family -home, where he was trained to the work of the farm, while in the district schools he acquired his education. He watched with interest the progress of events in the south prior to the Civil war, felt the injustice of the 'southern attitude and resolved that if a blow was struck to overthrow the Union he would strike one in its defense. Accordingly the smoke from Fort Sumter's guns had scarcely cleared away, when on the 15th of April, 1861, he offered his services to the government, enlisting as a private under Captain McClain, as a member of Company D. Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant and thus served until honorably discharged after the close of the war in October, 1865. He participated in many hotly contested battles and on the expiration of his, first term reenlisted, remaining at the front until the country no longer needed his aid in the capacity of a soldier who had volunteered to preserve the Union—for the preservation of the Union was now an assured fact and Old Glory floated over the capital of the southern Confederacy.
Major Platt, however, continued to render military aid to his country on other fields, enlisting in the regular army.. He served for three years under Captain Blation of the Eighth United States Infantry and then returned home for a thirty days' furlough. Again enlisting he became a member of Company C, Nineteenth United States Infantry under Captain Witherell and remained with the army for fifteen consecutive years, when he was honorably discharged at Mackinaw, Michigan, in 1891. He then returned to Columbus, after which he was sent to California, where he remained for three years. On the. expiration of that period he was put upon the retired pension list in 1894 by order of President Grover Cleveland, having given a third of a century to his country in active military duty, first on the battlefields of the south and later on the frontier and at other mil-
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itary posts. While at times there was much routine duty and commonplace drill, again there was much of thrilling interest in his military experiences and history, and an all occasions he faithfully performed his duty, fearlessly facing danger or loyally performing the routine work of the camp.
Since his retirement Major Platt has made his home in Coshocton and the government grants him a monthly, pension. He is a member of the Grand Army Post at Mackinaw, Michigan, and his political. support is given to the democracy. He married Mary Bramer but they have no children. When retired from the army Major Platt returned to the county of his nativity and expects to spend the evening, of his life amid the scenes and among the friends of his boyhood days.
GEORGE MILTON GRAY.
Closely identified with various. corporate and business interests in Coshocton, George Milton Gray figures as one its most progressive and valued citizens, his interests being of a character that promote the commercial upbuilding of. the city while advancing individual success. Forming his plans readily, he carries them forward to successful completion, manifesting great dispatch and executive ability in controlling the manifold interests with which he is connected. He is well known in this city as president of the Gray Hardware. Company and elsewhere as secretary and treasurer of the Ohio Hardware Mutual Fire Insurance Company.
Mr. Gray was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, at the town of Crows Mills, May 11, 1862. His father, Thomas D. Gray, was born in the same county and followed the occupation of farming for a number of years. At the time of the Civil war he joined the Union army and is a veteran of that long struggle. He is now engaged in the ice business at West Lafayette, Ohio, and has led a life of activity and usefulness. He married Margaret Venati, a native of Greene county, Pennsylvania, who is also living.
George Milton Gray was educated in Washington county, Pennsylvania, attending the district schools at intervals to the age of twenty years and working in different ways in the meantime. -He was employed at home until fifteen years of age and afterward worked as a farm, hand until he reached the age of twenty-three, when he went to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania., and secured. a situation in a book store. Subsequently at Claysville, Pennsylvania, he was employed as clerk in a hardware store and again took an advanced step in his business career when he became junior partner of the firm of Noble & Gray, furniture dealers and undertakers. His association with that enterprise continued for three years, when he sold out and removed to Zanesville, where he was engaged in the 'hardware business as senior partner of the firm of Gray & Richards for two years.
Coming to Coshocton in 1892, Mr. Gray bought the hardware business of Finley & Darns, who occupied a location which had been the site of a hardware enterprise for forty years. Mr. Gray remained at that point for
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fourteen years but in 1906 built his present fine store, which is unsurpassed in the state. It is equipped with every convenience for the conduct of a hardware trade and he carries a large. and extensive line of goods. His annual sales are now represented by a large figure and the volume of business yearly transacted over his counters makes his one of the leading commercial enterprises of the city. His business methods are such as will bear the closest investigation and scrutiny and, owing to his reasonable prices and honorable dealing, he justly merits the gratifying success which has come to him. Mr. Gray, moreover, is well known to the hardware trade throughout the country. Soon after his arrival here he became one of the organizers of the Ohio Hardware Association, the pioneer association in America, and for two years served as its secretary. During this time he was authorized to devise a plan for and organize a mutual fire insurance company among the hardware dealers. His plans reached perfection in the organization, on the 9th of November, 1902, of the Hardware Dealers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company. This was the result of much hard work and careful planning on the part of Mr. Gray, for it was necessary to secure one million dollars insurance and have ten thousand dollars in the bank before the organization could be effected. From the beginning the company has had a phenomenal growth, receiving the endorsement and patronage of many thousands of hardware dealers throughout the country. From the organization Mr. Gray has been secretary and treasurer of the company and deserves much credit for what he has accomplished in this direction. At the same time he has carefully managed and successfully controlled his private business interests. On the 1st of February, 1900, he incorporated the hardware business under the name of the Gray Hardware Company, of which he is president. He is likewise vice president of the Dean Si Berry Paint Company of Columbus, Ohio, and president of the Provision Company of this city. In 1901 he erected the Gray building, which is one of the substantial structures of the city.
On the 21st of October, 1891, occurred the marriage of Mr. Gray and Miss Adela D. Gorley, of Claysville, Pennsylvania. Their children are: Mary Gorley, born October 5, 1892; Margaret, June 26, 1901; and Gorley, born March 1, 1907.
Mr. Gray is a member of the County Visitors and the Business Men's Association. He is very active and enthusiastic in the latter, realizing how much can be done for the commercial and industrial development of the city if its business men will but cooperate toward this end. A devoted member of the Presbyterian church, he is now serving as elder and for ten years was superintendent of the Sunday .school. Early in life he made it his purpose to carefully choose the right kind of companions, and this has undoubtedly been one of the influencing factors in his life. In an analyzation of his record it will be seen that hard work and persistency of purpose have been salient features in his career. His name is above reproach wherever he is known. He believes in and acknowledges the rights and privileges of others while laboring for his own interests, and in all of his business career has never been known to advance his own fortunes by trespassing upon the
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rights of others. He is a typical man of the age, alert and enterprising, with marked fertility of resource, and is leaving the impress of his individuality upon Coshocton's growth and improvement.
DAVID I. MARTIN.
David I. Martin, a successful agriculturist of Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, was born in this township on the 4th of August, 1849, his parents being James and Jane (Martin) Martin. The father, whose birth occurred in Ireland in 1796, emigrated to the United States in 1820 and after residing in Delaware for a short time removed to New York, where he remained for five years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Delaware, where he was married in 1828 to Miss Jane Martin, who was born in that state in 1804. In the year 1842 he brought his family to Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, Ohio, where he purchased a farm and was so successful in the conduct of his agricultural interests that, at the time of his death, which occurred in 'February, 1881, he was the owner of three, hundred and twenty acres of rich and valuable land. His wife was called to her final rest on the 2d of December, 1859. Unto this worthy couple, were born ten, children, namely: Anna, Fannie and. William, all of whom are deceased; Joseph, who died in 1862, while serving as a soldier in the, Union army; Mary J., a resident of this county; Elizabeth and Maria, who have also passed away; Margaret, of Coshocton county.; James, deceasesince beenid I., of this review.
The last named acquired a common-school education and remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage, when he located on the farm in Mill Creek township where he now resides, having since been engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. Both branches of his business return to him a gratifying annual income and he is well known as one of the prosperous and enterprising farmers of the community.
Mr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Fannie N. Bechtol, a daughter of Nathan Bechtol, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, while her mother was born in Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtol removed to Stark county, Ohio, in 1837, and later took up their abode in MilGeorgek township; Coshocton county, the former passing away February 6, 1892, and the, latter in 1896. Their family numbered ten children, as .follows: Mary E., the widow of Henry Ling, of Mill Creek township; Ruth Ann, the wife of GeOrge Elliott, of Iowa; Jane, a residenthis Mill Creek township; Samuel G., of Williams county, Ohio; Nathan, living in Coshocton county; John and William, also residents of Williams county, Ohio; Frederick, of Mill Creek township; Mrs. Martin; andBenjamin F., who makes hiS home in Mill Creek township. Mrs. Martin, who for five years prior to her marriage was engaged in taching school, had two children. Joseph F., who was born in 1880, passed away February 15, 1881. William 0O., whose natal day was March 15, 1882, is now operating the home farm. He wedded Miss Mary A.
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Levengood, a native of Holmes county, Ohio, by whom he. has one daughter, Bernice Irene.
Mr. Martin gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has served as justice of the peace and also as a member of the school board. Both he and his wife are devoted and faithful members of the Episcopal church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful interest. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life he is well and favorably known here and his straightforward and honorable dealings have won for him the warm regard and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.
SAMUEL M. WILLIAMS.
The work of Samuel M. Williams as a contractor and builder has met with cordial and general appreciation as is evidenced by many attractive public buildings and residences of Coshocton. Mr. Williams was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, September 19, 1849, a son of Charles V. and Mary Ann (Cabot) Williams. The father was likewise a native of the Keystone state and during his business career was a bookkeeper and office clerk. He died in 1904, at the very advanced age of eighty-four years. The mother was a native of Pennsylvania and her death occurred when the son was a lad of twelve years.
Samuel M. Williams started out at an early age to make his own way in the world. He was first employed at farm labor during the spring and summer months, while in the winter seasons he pursued his studies in the common schools for a few years. At the age of nineteen he began learning telegraphy, and such was his aptitude and ready adaptability that at the end of one year he was qualified to accept the position of ticket agent and telegraph operator at West Middlesex, Pennsylvania. He filled that position for two years when, owing to the close confinement of this work, he was compelled to give it up and seek outdoor employment. To this end he became apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, receiving for his first year's work his board and five dollars per month, for the second year his board and ten dollars per month, and for the third and last year his board and twenty dollars per month. During the winter months of these three years he engaged in teaching in the district schools in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, receiving as a compensation thirty dollars per month.
For two years or more he worked at his trade in Mercer county and in Julie, 1875, made his way to Coshocton county, Ohio, where he 'first found employment with Williams & Weiser, builders and operators of planing-mills. After a period of five or six years spent with this firm, Mr. Williams, with others, organized the Buckeye Planing Mill Company, composed of Thomas Collopy, F. J. Guenther and himself. This firm continued with success until 1886, when Mr. Williams withdrew from the concern and went to Atchison, Kansas, where he was employed in a planing-mill for one
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year. At the solicitation of Henry Herbig, cashier of the Commercial National Bank, Mr. Williams returned to Coshocton and erected for Mr. Herbig a most attractive and pretentious residence on South Fourth street in this city. This was Mr. Williams' first contract but it proved to be a splendid advertisement for him, for in this way he secured other contracts. In 1891, however, he withdrew from the field of contracting and building and became president and manager of the Wooden Novelty Company upon its organization, the concern being formed for the purpose of manufacturing wooden advertising goods and wooden specialties. In 1899 he withdrew from the, firm and once more took up the contract business, which he has continued to the present time. Many of the fine and substantial structures of Coshocton and the surrounding districts stand as monuments to his skill and enterprise. He has practically built all of the manufacturing plants and many of the public structures as well' as many of the beautiful and attractive homes of Coshocton. He has gained an enviable reputation as a skilled workman and thoroughly trustworthy man in meeting his obligations ions .
Mr. Williams was married February 1, 1876, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary E. Rowland, a daughter of James K. and Margaret (McCloskey) Rowland, of Edinburg, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Williams died December 14, 1883, leaving a family of four, children: Clara Maude, now the wife of William Evans, postmaster at Hubbard, Ohio; Asa C., Hugh R. and Ralph C.. Mr. Williams' youngest sister, Anna May Williams, has had charge of his household affairs since the death of his wife and has assisted in rearing the children.
Mr. Williams is a director in the Coshocton Brick Company, a director in the Pope-Gosser Company and a stockholder in the Meek Company. He is a republican in his political views and affiliations, and has served as a member of the city council and the board of health, while at the present writing he is a member of the board of education. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in Grace Methodist Episcopal church. He entered upon his varied duties with admirable equipment, being a practical builder of Coshocton.
JESSE PRITCHARD FORBES.
Jesse Pritchard Forbes is numbered among the valued residents of Coshocton. He is a capitalist whose business ability is manifested in judicious investments, while his progressive citizenship has been evidenced in. his active and helpful cooperation in many movements for the public good. His fellow townsmen have given proof of their belief in his ability and his loyalty to the general welfare by electing him their representative in the state legislature and in the senate. A man of active sagacity and strength of character, he has brought to a. successful solution the problems which have confronted him in individual and public relations and his efforts have conserved the best interests of the commonwealth.
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Mr. Forbes was born in Uhrichsville, Ohio, April 28, 1855. His father, Thomas J. Forbes, a native of the same locality, was a farmer by occupation and a leading and influential citizen in his community. In his business affairs he combined keen discrimination with unfaltering and well directed energy and thus achieved large success. He was descended from Scotch-Irish ancestors, early representatives of the family living in the north of Scotland, while later generations were represented on the Emerald Isle. From that point members of the family came to the United States. The religious faith of the family is that of the Presbyterian church. Thomas J. Forbes was united in marriage to Miss Clara Pritchard, a lady of Welsh lineage, who died November 26, 1873. Mr. Forbes long survived his wife, passing away July 10, 1902.
In the public schools of his native town Jesse Pritchard Forbes pursued his education until, passing through consecutive grades, he was graduated from the high school of Uhrichsville at the age of eighteen years. He also attended the New Hagerstown Academy in preparation for a course in Denison University at Granville, Ohio, where he remained as a student for some time. He studied law in the office and under the direction of G. H. Bargar, of Coshocton, in which city he arrived in 1878, and was admitted to practice in 1880. He has never been an active member of the profession, however, but his knowledge of the law has proven of marked benefit to him in the control of his private business affairs. His time and energies have largely been devoted to the management of his real-estate investments, which are large and profitable. He displays keen discrimination in the purchase and sale of property and, aside from residence and business property which lie owns, he is largely interested in mines in Colorado, North Carolina, Missouri and other states, while in Coshocton he is officially as well as financially connected with the Broom & Hertig Company, as president and director.
Mr. Forbes is one of the most progressive of men, and that he stands for advancement in all lines is indicated not only in his association in affairs; of prominence but also, in minor matters; for example, he was the owner of the first typewriter, the first bicycle and the first automobile in Coshocton. He is an enthusiastic motorist and has been an extensive traveler on the North American continent, making twenty annual trips to the Rockies. He holds to the religious faith of the family, being a member of the Presbyterian church and he belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. 0. E. A stalwart advocate of democracy, he served for two terms as a member of the Ohio house of representatives, being elected in 1888 and 1890, while in 1892 he was chosen state senator. He did effective work in his opposition to the unprincipled methods of many politicians in crushing legislation that Would have proved detrimental to, the interests of the state.
On the 30th of December, 1879, Mr. Forbes was married to Miss Maria A. Hay, of Coshocton. He has always been a popular and progressive citizen here and while fortune has favored him in material ways, there are few men so democratic in spirit or so free from anything that partakes of the nature of ostentation or display. He is a broad reader and a student of the signs of the times, thoroughly conversant with the questions and issues of general
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interest and always abreast with the best thinking men of the age. Coshocton has profited by his labors in many directions, particularly in the fact that he always casts the weight of his influence upon the side of municipal progress, political, intellectual and moral advancement.
HENRY REHARD.
Henry Rehard, who is successfully engaged in the milling business at West Lafayette, was born in Oxford township, Coshocton county, Ohio, January 14, 1860, his parents being Joel and Hannah (Cole) Rehard. The father, also a native of this county, was reared on a farm and throughout his active business career carried on agricultural pursuits. He is now living retired at the age of seventy-three years, but still owns a fine farm in Oxford township and another in Linton township. By his first wife, who passed away forty years ago, he had the following children: Willis, of California; Frank, who resides in New Comerstown, Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Henry, of this review; Lucy, the wife) of J. Loos, of Lafayette township; John, also a resident of New Comerstown; Leonard W. of Arizona; and Alfred of Oxford township. For his second wife Joel Rehard chose Miss Susan Atkinson, by whom he, has four children, as follows: Noah, of West Lafayette; Perry, living in Canton, Ohio; Robert, a resident of Cleveland, Ohio; and Carl, of West Lafayette, Ohio.
Henry Rehard was reared on the home farm and acquired a common-school education In 1879 he left the parental roof and for nine months was employed in a store in Uhrichsville,, Tuscarawas county, Ohio. Coming to West Lafayette in the fall of the same year, he here became connected with the, livery business, which he successfully conducted for twenty years. Early in the year 1899, in partnership with William Garsline, he bought out the mill but after a year purchased his partner's interest and has since carried on the enterprise alone. He has modern steam roller mills and manufactures and ships flour, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. Re is a stockholder in the West Lafayette Stamping di Enameling Works and in the West Lafayette Bank, and is widely recognized as a substantial and enterprising citizen of his native county.
On the 17th of August, 1884, Mr. Rehard was united in marriage to Miss Martha Loos, whose birth occurred in Oxford township in May, 1865, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Coulter) Loos, natives of Oxford township, where they are still living on a farm. They have three children, namely: Mary E., at home; Mrs. Rehard; and Perry, also on the home farm. Unto our subject and his wife has been born one child, Florence,, who is at home.
In his political views Mr. Rehard is a stanch republican, and for two terms served as township treasurer. Having lived in this county throughout practically his entire life, he is well and favorably known here and has
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gained the warm regard and esteem of all with whom he has come in con tact in business or social relations. He resides at West Lafayette in a beautiful home which he erected'.
L. F. McVEY
L. F. McVey, who for many yeyearsas prominent in various business circles of Coshocton county, is now living retired in a palatial residence in Walhonding, deriving a splendid income from five hundred and twelve acres of land, situated in New Castle township. Mr. McVey is a native son of the county, his birth having occurred at New Guilford, July 7, 1843, a son of Joseph S. and Elnor (Crimble) McVey. The father's birth occurred near New Elderville,, Pennsylvania, and he was brought. to Coshocton county by his parents when but a child. For a few years he was engaged in milling in Scott county, Iowa, but eventually returned to Walhonding and purchased and conducted a mill at this place until the time of his death, which occurred in 1871. The mother was a native of the Buckeye state and by her marriage became the mother of nine children, as follows: one who died in infancy; L. F., of this review; William Franklin, a resident of California; Martha, the wife of J. R. Gamble, a miller of Walhonding; Emma, deceased; Catherine and Paulina, also deceased; John ; and one who died in infancy.
L. F. McVey was educated in the schools in Walhonding, Delaware and Hayesville, Ohio. His boyhood and youth were spent under the parental roof, during which time he assisted his father in the mill. When he started upon an independent business venture he engaged in the general mercantile business in Walhonding for a. few years, after which he removed to New Castle, where he carried on a similar enterprise for three years. He then took up farming in New Castle township, being thus engaged until three years ago, when he took up his abode in Walhonding, where he owns and occupies a beautiful residence, situated opposite the Sands Sanitarium. Mr. McVey is still the owner of five hundred and twelve acres of well improved and valuable land situated in New Castle township, and from this he derives a good rental. While engaged in general agricultural pursuits he also made a specialty of raising blooded sheep and cattle and in this way accumulated Considerable money.
Mr. McVey was married in 1871 to Miss Mary Ellen Butter, a resident of Coshocton county, who by her marriage has become the mother of five children, but the eldest, Paulina, died in infancy, those still surviving being: Joseph, a farmer of New Castle township; John C.; Catherine, the wife of C. M. flay, of Coshocton ; and Emeline, who is with her parents.
Mr. McVey's study of the political issues and questions of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic partyy, and he has served as township. treasurer. His fraternal relations are with the Masonic
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member of the Maccabees tent at Walhonding. Mrs. McVey is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. McVey is a most loyal and public-spirited citizen and in business circles has been conspicuous among his associates, not only for his success, but for his probity, fairness and honorable methods. In everything he has been eminently practical and this has been manifest not only in his business undertakings but also in his social and private life.
WILLIAM CRAIG.
William Craig, who now owns the old family homestead of one hundred and sixty-eight acres in Lafayette township, having bought out the interests of the other heirs, was born in a house near the one in which he now resides, October 8, 1869, the son of Andrew J. and Mary (Shurtz) Craig. The farm came into the possession of the family through his grandfather, Daniel Craig, who wedded Isabelle McCune. He came from Washington county, Pennsylvania, and located in Coshocton county about 1825.. He first settled on Wills creek, but only remained there a short time, when he secured possession of the farm which our subject now owns. The place was so densely wooded that a spot had to be cleared on which to erect a log cabin. The logs for this purpose were hewed and shaped according to the custom of the times by the neighbors who were invited to the house-raising. They came for miles around, the occasion being one of celebration over the fact that a new home was being established in their midst, and on going home that night the woods resounded with their singing.
It was nine years later, or in 1834, that Andrew J. Craig, the father of our subject, was born in this woodland home. There he was reared, receiving as much of an education as was possible in those pioneer days. He aided his father in the work of cultivating the soil and devoted considerable attention to stock-raising. In early manhood he wedded Mary Shurtz, who was born in Hackettstown, New Jersey, in 1840, and they became the parents of three children, namely: Samuel, who resides in Wabash, Indiana; Isabelle, the wife of H. P. Beall, of West Lafayette; and William, of this review. The mother passed away in 1905, while the father survived her for one year, his death occurring in 190'6. Both were, faithful members of the Methodist Protestant' church. Mr. Craig was a public-spirited citizen and a successful business man. He held the office of township trustee for one term.
William Craig received his education in the district school and has ever devoted his energies to the work of the farm, aiding his father during the days of his boyhood and youth and later sharing in its profits, until ultimately by close application to business and the practice of economy and self-denial he was able to buy the interests of the other members of the family and obtain clear title to the place. He engages quite extensively in stock-raising and the success which he has met in life has been well earned, containing no element of chance or good fortune, but due to faithful, persistent effort.
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On June 16, 1898, Mr., Craig was united in marriage to Miss Lottie Vensel, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio. Her father died in 1902 at the age of sixty-five years. Her mother now resides in Newark and is sixty years of age. Mrs. Craig is the, fifth in order of birth in a family of nine children. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Craig have been born two children, namely, Waldo and Eugene.
Politically, Mr. Craig is identified with the democratic party. He is an active worker for his party's interests and has served as township trustee for one term. Both he and Mrs. Craig are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are held, in high esteem by the entire community.
JACOB D. LOWER, M.D.
No line of life or avenue, of activity has undergone such complete revolution in recent years as has the practice of medicine and surgery. The advance made by the medical profession has been most marked and the work done seems almost phenomenal. However, it is based upon the most thorough scientific research and investigation, combined with broad skill and experience, and the man who wins success in this calling must be conversant with all the modern methods. Possessing all the requisite qualities of the successful physician, Dr. Lower has practiced in Coshocton with a large patronage. He was born near Baltic, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, July 8, 1863, and is a son of Henry and Mary (Deetz) Lower. The, father followed the profession of teaching in early life, being identified with educational work for twenty years. He afterward turned his attention to farming, and though he. is now largely living retired he yet makes his home upon a farm in Adams township, Coshocton county. He has reached the age of seventy-six years.
Reared under parental influence and discipline and educated in the common schools and the Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio, where he pursued a scientific course, Dr. Lower entered upon active business life well equipped for many of the cares and responsibilities which come with the attainment of adult age. lie took up teaching when a young man of eighteen years and followed the profession for eight years, but regarded this merely an initial step to other profesisonal labor, and during the latter part of his connection with educational work devoted his leisure hours and vacation periods to the study of medicine, reading under the direction of Dr. Snyder, who was then practicing at New Bedford, but is now deceased. In the fall of 1885 he entered the medical department of the University of Wooster at Cleveland, -Ohio, and was graduated therefrom in the class of 1887. Following his graduation he began practice in Bakersville, this county, and soon secured a liberal patronage, remaining as an active representative of the profession there for nineteen years. With the desire to give his children better educational privileges as well as to secure a better field for his medical work he removed to Coshocton in 1906, and has here made a
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host of friends and built up a large practice. He pursued a course in the New York Post Graduate Medical School in 1891, and in 1907 pursued a. post-graduate course in the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He is therefore in close touch with the most advanced methods of the medical fraternity and further keeps in touch with the progress of the profession as a member of the Coshocton County Medical Society, of which he is now the secretary, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association.
Happily situated in his home life, Dr. Lower was married in 1886 to Miss Phoebe Bahmer, of Bakersville, Ohio, and they have two children: Mary Joyce and Hunter J. Dr. Lower belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 44, I. O. O. F., and to the Modern Woodmen of America. He votes with the democratic party, And gives evidence of his religious faith in his membership with and support of the Presbyterian church. He holds to high ideals in his professions conscientious in the performance of his daily duties and in his administration to the, sick he proves that his knowledge is of a practical as well as comprehensive nature.
ANDREW J. RANDLES.
Andrew J. Randles has gained a wide reputation as one of the, most ex. tensive Tststockeeders and raisers of Coshocton county and is also a representative of one of the early pioneer families of this part of the Buckeye state. Mr. Randles born in Jackson township, January 30, 1837, a son of John and Mary (Gellen) Randles. The father was a man of wonderful courage, energy and perseverance and became a prosperous farmer.
Andrew J. Randles, whose name introduces this review, pursued his studies in one of the old time, log schoolhouses of Coshocton county, his advantages in this direction being rather meager, owing partly to the un' settled condition of the country and partly t the fact that his services were needed on the home farm. He established a home of his own, when on Christmas day of 1859 he wedded Miss Catherine Pearce, a daughter of William and Eliza Pearce, residents of Coshocton county.
Following their marriage the young couple began their domestic life upon a farm and in addition to carrying on general agricultural pursuits Mr. Randles also gave his time to railroad construction and to stock buying, shipping to the Pittsburg and other eastern markets. In each line of activity he was successful. During the Civil war he bought horses for the government and in the spring of 1864 enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for one hundred days' service. When his term had expired he resumed his former lines of business and also became a breeder of fine stock and today enjoys a reputation for being the best stockman in this section of the state.
Mr. Randles gives his political support to the republican party and although he has frequently been urged to become a candidate for important
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county positions he, has never consented to do so, feeling that his time is fully occupied with his varied business interests. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, and he maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in Richard Lanning Post, G. A. R. During his lifetime he has performed many acts of charity and it is said of him that during the Civil war no soldier's family ever needed assistance that it was not generously rendered by Mr. Handles, although he, always performed such deedi without ostentation or publicity. Through the exercise of his dominant powers—ambition, energy and industry—he has worked his way up and is now classed among the prosperous stockmen of Coshocton county.
FRANCIS W. BOWER.
A well improved and hiny developed farm of one hundred acres, situated in Jefferson township, is the home of Francis W. Bower. He was born in Wittenburg, Germany, December 9, 1851, and is the eldest in a family of nine children, seven sons and two daughters, born of the marriage of John G. and Catherine B. (Roth) Bower, who were likewise natives of the fatherland. The father was_ a blacksmith by trade and followed that occupation in his native, land until 1853,, when with his family he emigrated to the United States. He at once made his way to Coshocton county, where for fourteen years he followed his trade of a blacksmith. He then purchased land in Monroe township, to which he removed and here in connection with blacksmithing he carried on general farming until his death, which occurred in 1887, his remains being interred in the Lutheran Beaver Run cemetery of Jefferson township. The mother, however, still survives and makes her home in Monroe township. Their family consisting of nine children is as follows: Francis W., of this review; John, a farmer of Defiance, Ohio; Frederick, who follows farming in Monroe township; George, who is also a farmer, making his home in Henry county, Ohio; Minnie, the wife of William Baesler, a motorman on a street car line in Cleveland, Ohio; Jacob, who is on the home place with his mother; William, a farmer of Monroe township; Mary, the wife of William Fox, who follows farming in Clark township, this county; and David, a resident fbusiness Henry county, this state.
Francis W. Bower acquired his education in the district schools of Crawford township, but his advantages in this direction were somewhat limited, for from an early age it was necessary that he provide for his own support. When but nine years old he began work as a farm hand, beiduring theployed during the summer months and when he attained his majority he left the parental home and was employed at farm labor for two years. He then rented land and engaged in farming on his own account. At the end of one year he purchased forty acres in Monroe township, which he cleared and developed and on which he erected a home. He then disposed
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of that property and once more rented land, operating one hundred acres. in Monroe township for three years, at the end of which time he purchased his present place in Jefferson- township, on which he has made his home to the present time. On this place stands a fine country home, surrounded by a well kept lawn, while in the rear are found substantial barns and outbuildings, all of which have been placed here by Mr. Bower. He is engaged in general agricultural pursuits and the success which he to-day enjoys is well deserved, for it has come to him through his own honorable effort, careful management and well directed labor.
Mr. Bower established a home of his own by his marriage, in 1874 to Miss Priscilla Gamertsfelder, a resident of Jefferson township and a representative of one of the old and, prominent families of this section of the state. Their marriage has been blessed with six children, namely: Harley William, now deceased; Bertha, the wife of Nicholas Fisher, a resident farmer of
Jefferson township; Jacob W., of Clark township; and Emma, Roy and Albert, all at home.
Mr. Bower gives his political support to the democratic party and has been called by his fellow townsmen to fill some local offices, having for the past six years served as trustee of Jefferson township, while he is also a member of the school board. He is a member of the Evangelical church, in the work of which he takes a deep and active interest, having served as superintendent of the Sunday school and as class leader of the church. In the analyzation of his character and life work we note many characteristics which have marked the German race for many centuries--the perseverance, reliability and determination to pursue a course that has been marked out. It is these sterling qualities which have given to Francis W. Bower success in life and made him one of the substantial and valued citizens of Coshocton county.
DAVID NOBLE.
David Noble, who is extensively engaged in farming and stock-raising in Lafayette township, is .a member of one of Coshocton county's old and prominent families,. his grandfather having come into this country at an early date from Pennsylvania. He was born January 6, 1855, the son of John and Nancy (Waggoner) Noble, both of whom were natives of this county. His father was born in 1830 and died in 1881. The mother survived him for a. number of years and passed away at the venerable age of seventy-five years. They were the parents of nine children, all of whom are now living.
David Noble is indebted to the district schools of the county for his education. He aided his father in the work of the farm until he was twenty-two years of age, at which time he began work as a farm hand for wages, an occupation which he followed for four consecutive years. About this time he got the western fever and hearing of unusual openings for young men of energy and ens erprise beyond the Mississippi at the age of twenty-six he went
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to Nebraska. He investigated that region, also Kansas, Texas, Colorado and Wyoming territory, spending altogether four years in the, western country, with the result that at the end of that time he returned to Ohio, congratulating himself upon his good fortune in having been born in that state and content to make it his permanent home in the future.
It is only fair to the western states which he visited, however, to state that it was not altogether an attraction towards his native country which drew him back, as following his return, on November 20, 1884, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth S. McGuire, who was born on the farm where they now reside, November 7, 1851, the daughter of William and Mary (Schoenaker) McGuire. Her paternal grandfather came to Ohio from Virginia in 1804 and located in Coshocton county, where he purchased twelve hundred acres of land in 1806 and improved the place on which our subject now resides. Her father, William McGuire, was born in this county in 1807. He was twice married, his first wife being Mary Stonehocker. She died in 1842, leaving two children. Mr. McGuire was again married and two children were born to his second union. Of these children, Mrs. Noble is the only one yet living. Her father passed away in 1889 at the venerable age of eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Noble have become the parents of four children, two of whom, Nancy E. and an infant, they have lost by death. George and Francis reside at home with their parents.
Mr. and Mrs. Noble now own nine hundred acres of land in Lafayette and Keene townships, a large portion of which they rent. In addition to general farming they devote a great deal of attention to the raising of stock, horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, from which they derive a lucrative source of income.
In national politics Mr. Noble gives his unwavering support to the republican party but in local matters he votes for men and measures rather than for party. He has ever taken an active interest in educational affairs and has held various positions on the school board.
RUSSELL C. EDWARDS, M.D.
Dr. Russell C. Edwards, who is successfully engaged in the practice of medicine in West Carlisle, is a native son of this village, born of the marriage of Dr. James T. and Sarah (Marquand) Edwards, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. The father was engaged in the practice of medicine in West Carlisle for many years, or until his death, which occurred July 2, 1905. The wife and mother had preceded him to the, home beyond many years before, her death occurring July 3, 1889.
Russell C. Edwards was reared under the parental roof and acquired his early education in the schools of West Carlisle, this being supplemented by more advanced study in Muskingum College. Deciding upon the practice of medicine as a life work, to this end he matriculated in the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, prior to entering the College of Physicians and
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Surgeons, at Baltimore, Maryland, from which he was graduated with the class of 1892. Returning to his home in West Carlisle, he remained with his father for a brief period and then located for practice in Coshocton, where he was continuously in practice until 1906, when he returned to West Carlisle and with his brother, Dr. Edwin S. Edwards, succeeded to his father's practice. He is gradually gaining rank with the best physicians of this state and already has a large and lucrative practice which is constantly increasing.
Dr. Edwards was married June 14, 1893, to Miss Millie Frederick, a daughter of John G. and Amy Frederick, residents of Warsaw. The marriage of Dr. and Mrs. Edwards has been blessed with one son, Clifford F. The Doctor is a republican in his political view and affiliations and his fraternal, relations are with the Elks lodge at Coshocton, while he keeps in touch with the progress and advancement of the medical profession through his membership in she State and County Medical Societies. In the line of his profession his ability and skill have been demonstrated in the successful handling of a number of complex problems, while in social ci.les he is also popular.
EDWIN S. EDWARDS, M.D.
Dr. Edwin S. Edwards, who is engaged in practice with his brother, Russell C., was educated in the public schools of West Carlisle and in Dennison University. Upon reaching years of maturity he decided to enter the medical profession and with this end in view attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati and also at Cleveland, while he won his degree from the Baltimore Medical College, in 1898. He engaged in practice in West Carlisle with his father, with whom he remained until the latter's death in 1905, since which time he has been associated in practice, with his brother, Russell C.
Dr. Edwards is a republican in his political views and is highly esteemed both by the medical profession and by the public at large,. He and his brother are owners of farm lands in Pike township, near West Carlisle, but they give their entire time and attention to their profession, in which they are meeting with well deserved success.
C. J. BRELSFORD.
C. J. Brelsford is one of the younger representatives of the agricultural interests of Coshocton county and now owns and operates the old homestead farm, consisting of one hundred and four acres in Linton township. He was born in this county, July 29, 1861, a son of David and Catharine (Thomas) Brelsford, the former a native of Coshocton county. Their family
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numbered five children: Belle, deceased; Blanch, the wife of Benton Davis, of West Lafayette; Elma, the wife of Hiram Fowler, of Linton township; Major, of Coshocton; and C. J., of this review. Both the, parents are deceased, the father passing away September 13, 1873, while the mother survived for about thirty years, passing to her final reward on the 29th of June, 1903.
C. J. Brelsford pursued his studies in the common schools and was reared to farming pursuits. He was a lad of twelve years when he lost his father, after which he was reared by his mother, remaining with her until he had reached the age of twenty-three years, during which time he managed the home farm. At that period in his life he was married to Miss Tilla Anderson Reed, who was also a native of Coshocton county, born December 3, 1862, and who was engaged in teaching for two years prior to her marriage.
Following his marriage Mr., Brelsford continued to operate the home farm until his mother's death, or in 1903, when he made purchase of the property, this comprising one hundred and four acres situated in Linton township. He keeps in touch with modern ideas of agriculture, and in his work is meeting with a good measure of success.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Brelsford has been blessed with four children, but the eldest, Clyde, is now deceased. Those living are: Edna B., the wife of Raymond McClain, of Linton township; Walter L., who is engaged in teaching school; and Roger R., at home. Mr. Brelsford gives his political support to the, democratic party and at the present time is serving as township trustee and as school director, the cause of education finding in him a warm and helpful friend. His excellent traits of character inspire personal friendship of unusual strength and all who know him have for him high admiration and esteem, while his estimable wife also shares with him in the high regard in which he is uniformly held. They are also prominent in church circles, holding membership with the Methodist Episcopal denomination.
RUFUS KELLY MERRIAM, M.D.
Rufus Kelly Merriam, M.D., a physician and surgeon of Coshocton, is a representative of one of the old families of Ohio. His paternal grandparents, Charles and Eurie (Humphrey ) Merriam, came from Connecticut to this state at an early date and established their home in Morgan county, settling on a farm just west of Malta. There Charles Merriam engaged in buying cattle, which he drove over the mountains to the eastern markets. He was very successful in his work and with the proceeds of the, business he later engaged in banking in McConnelsville, being for several years thus ide,ntified with the financial interests of the county. His later years were spent in an honorable retirement from business cares, and he passed away at the age of seventy-six years. His business enterprise, .his progressive
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citizenship, his force of character and sterling worth made him one of the valued and representative residents of his community. His widow still survives him at the age of ninety-one years and still lives in McConnelsville. She is a remarkably well preserved woman, being able to do the finest needlework.
Their son, Albert G. Merriam, was born on the home farm near McConnelsville, May 7, 1843, and in his youth was trained to the work of the fields. He acquired a good English education and on attaining manhood entered his father's bank. For years he was a factor in the banking circles of McConnelsville, conducting one of the substantial and 'successful institutions of that city. Eventually, however, he returned to agricultural life, taking up his abode on a farm of five hundred and eighty acres in Muskingum county, about fourteen miles south of Zanesville., where he resided for thirty years. He was a most successful farmer as well as a capable financier, and his careful management of his business affairs placed him among the, men of affluence in his community. In politics he was a stanch republican, giving unfaltering support to the principles of that party. For the benefit of the health of himself and his wife he went to Virginia, where he died September 7, 1905. In early manhood he had married Harriet F. Kelly, who yet makes her home in
McConnelsville. Her father,, Joseph Kelly, was one of the pioneer settlers of Morgan county and bored the first salt well there under what is known as the "Devil's Tea Table." In later years he was classed with the most promising and enterprising merchants and business men of McConnelsville, so utilizing his opportunities and employing his native talents and powers that he gained a leading position in business circles. He was, moreover, a very popular man and on one ocgicasion came within a single vote of being elected to the state legislature, although the office was entirely unsolicited. His wife bore the maiden name of Electa Bingham Chandler, and was a representative of the old De Bingham family of Massachusetts that traces its ancestry back to Miles Standish and even to a more remote period, and is connected with many families that figured prominently in revolutionary times.
Dr. Rufus K. Merriam, son of Albert G. and Harriet F. (Kelly) Merriam, was born in McConnelsville, Ohio, August 12, 1869. At the usual age he was sent to the public schools and in 1887 matriculated in the Ohio State University, where he remained as a student for two years. He thus secured broad literary knowledge, which served as a foundation upon which to rear the superstructure of professional learning. He began reading medicine with Dr. John M. Dunham, of Columbus, as his preceptor, and in the fall of 1890 he entered the Columbus Medical College, which was later merged into the Starling Ohio Medical University. He was graduated from the latter institution in the class of 1892. As he was then in poor health he did not make a definite location for some months but eventually opened an office at Merriam station, where he remained in active practice for two and a half years. On the expiration of that period he removed to Peoria, Illinois, where he was advantageously located as the associate in practice of Dr. Paul Dombrowski. After practicing there for some time his health again failed
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and he was compelled to discontinue his professional labors. He then returned home and afterwards spent fourteen months in Guernsey county, Ohio, attending to the practice of another physician. Following this he located at Keene, Coshocton county, where he erected a residence and remained in practice for two years, but wishing for broader scope for his labors he removed to the city of Coshocton in 1904, and in the intervening years has built up a practice which attests the fact that he is recognized as one of the best informed and most capable physicians and surgeons of the city. He has always been a close student of his profession and his success further lies in his ability to correctly apply his knowledge to the needs of his patients.
In 1900 Dr. Merriam was married to Miss Viola M. Severns, of Milnersville, Guernsey county, Ohio. They are well known socially in Coshocton and Dr. Merriam is numbered among the valuable members of the Modern Woodmen of America and the fraternal order of Eagles, serving at the present time as physician of the local aerie. 'His political allegiance is given to the republican party. In his professional service he is prompted by a laudable ambition to work his way upward and is always actuated by humanitarian principles that are manifest in a ready and helpful sympathy.
WILLIAM W. CANTWELL.
This is an age of advancement as manifest in our national affairs and in individual interests. The great majority of American citizens are working upward in specific lines, utilizing their opportunities to good advantage, and a single instance of this fact is found in the life of W. W. Cantwell, the president of the Coshocton Shoe Company. He was born in Coshocton, June 11, 1854, his parents being Hezekiah and Mary (Rundles) Cantwell. The father, a native of this county, spent his entire life here and in early manhood learned the tailor's trade, carrying on business along this line for many years in Coshocton, where he was classed with the reliable and substantial merchants.
No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of life for William W. Cantwell in his boyhood days. The sports of the playground and the field claimed his attention and divided his time with the work of the schools wherein he pursued his studies through consecutive grades until he became a high-school student. His first salaried position was that of hod carrier, carrying brick for the building in which he now does business, little thinking that at some future day he would be. installed there as the head of one of the leading commercial enterprises of the city. His second position made him a clerk in a shoe store., where he remained for ten years, his long service plainly indicating his capability and his fidelity to the interests of his .employers. For eight years he occupied the position of salesman in the store of Dave & Ike, and for two years he was with S. Robinson. On the failure of this employer Mr. Cantwell and C. L. Walker purchased the stock and for ten years successfully carried on the
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business under the firm name of Walker & Cantwell, at the, expiration of which period Mr. Cantwell purchased his partner's interest and .on the 8th of December, 1904, the Cantwell Shoe Company was organized and incorporated. Mr. Cantwell became president of this company, which now ,owns and controls the leading shoe house of the city. The business has grown from a small beginning to an enterprise of extensive proportions, enjoying large annual sales, while the trade is constantly increasing.
In 1887 Mr. Cantwell was married to Miss Belle Finnel, of Coshocton, and they have three children : Fred, who is in the store with his father; and Catherine and Edna, at home. The parents hold membership with the Presbyterian church, in which Mr. Cantwell is serving as trustee. He is independent in politics, endorsing, however, that movement, which is one of the hopeful signs of the, times, toward a cleaner politics. Many substantial citizens, aroused to indignation by methods which have been employed, have fearlessly announced themselves in supoprt of an independent movement which will secure honest and capable men in office, and with such a movement Mr. Cantwell is in hearty sympathy. His rise in the business world has brought him from a humble position to one, of prominence. His connection with any, undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same, for it is in his nature to carry forward to successful completion whatever he is associated with. He has earned for himself an enviable reputation as a careful man of business, and in his dealings is known for his prompt and honorable methods, which have won him the deserved and unbounded confidence of his fellowmen.
JAMES MOORE.
Farming has characterized the labors of James Moore throughout his entire business career and he is now the owner of a well improved tract of land in Washington township, where he is engaged in general agricultural pursuits, stockdraising and fruit-growing. He was born in Pike township, November 20, 1848, a son of James, Sr., and Jennette (Patton) Moore. The father was born in Ireland, whence, he emigrated to the United States when a young man and engaged in farming in Coshocton county.
James Moore, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the home farm, early being trained to the various duties that fall to the lot of the farmer boy. He pursued his studies in the district schools, wherein he mastered the common branches of English learning. When he started out in life on his own account he engaged in farming and this has been his occupation to the present time. He also raises stock to some extent and gives ay portion of his time to the raising of fruit, each branch of his business proving profitable. His tract of land embraces eighty-five acres and is improved with good and substantial outbuildings, while the fields have been placed under a high state of cultivation.
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Mr. Moore was married April 4, 1874, the lady of his choice being Miss Sarah E. Miller, a daughter of John and Nancy (Lyons) Miller. Three children have been born of this marriage but the eldest, Lula Belle,, is now deceased. The living members are Stella P. and Nella E.
Mr. Moor gives his political support to the democratic party, and while lie keeps well informed on the political progress of the country, he has never been active as an office seeker, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his private business interests. He is a member of the Presbyterian church. He, thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and friends. He is always courteous, kindly and affable and those who know him personally have for him warm regard.
GEORGE W. COMPTON.
George W. Compton, who is a worthy representative of one of the prominent pioneer families of Coshocton .county, is also one of the largest landowners and most successful farmer's of Jackson township. He was born in this township, November 10, 1854, a son of John D. and Mary (McFarland) Compton, the latter of Irish parentage. The father was a native of Culpeper county, Virginia, his parents Making the overland journey to Coshocton county in 1831, thus becoming numbered among its earliest pioneer settlers. Both the parents are now deceased, the father passing away January 17, 1893, while the mother,. surviving for only a few years, passed away in February, 1896.
George W. Compton pursued his studies in the, public schools of Roscoe and was reared upon the homestead farm, early being trained in the duties' that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Ho has followed farming as a: life work and is today one of the wealthiest landowners of Jackson township, owning and operating two hundred and seventy acres. He is successfully engaged in general agricultural pursuits and each year harvests rich crops as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields. His success, too, has been acquired only through the most honorable and straight forward methods and all who have business dealings with him know him to be a man of strict integrity and honor.
Mr. Compton has been three times married. His first union was with Miss Colonia Darling, their marriage being celebrated September 10, 1876. She was the daughter of Wilson and Barbara (Frederick) Darling, both of whom were natives of Germany. Mrs. Compton survived her marriage for only a few years, passing away August 3, 1883. Mr. Compton was again married in September, 1890, .the lady of his choice being Susanna Love, a daughter of John F. and Margaret (Cunningham) Love, residents of Holmes county, this state. This union was blessed with three, children: Luella; Frank A.; and Irene, who is a teacher in the Coshocton schools. The wife and mother, passed from this life on the 6th of July, 1898, and on the 14th of October of the following year Mr. Compton was again married, this union
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being with Calenza Carr, a daughter of Andrew and Susanna (Love) Carr, and this union has also been blessed with three children, Nellie E., Wilma and Theodore R.
Mr. Compton's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has served as township trustee for several terms and also as a member of the school board, while he also acted as judge of election for a number of years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Having always made his home in Jackson township he has a wide and favorable acquaintance in this section of the state. The terms progress and patriotism Might be considered the keynote of his character, for throughout his career he has labored along lines that have brought him the greatest good, while he has also been actuated by a fidelity to his country and her welfare.
THOMAS W. CULBERTSON
Thomas W. Culbertson well deserves mention in this volume as one of the representative farmers and business men of the county. For many years he was active in business life, but he is now living retired, making his home in Isleta. His diligence and enterprise in former years brought to him the measure of success which now enables him to rest from further labor. He has passed the seventy-second milestone on life's journey, his birth having occurred in Coshocton county, November 25, 1836. He represents one of the oldest and best known pioneer families, for the Culbertsons have long been connected with the development and progress of the county—since the early days when they aided in reclaiming the wild land and converted it into attractive farms.
The paternal grandfather of Thomas W. Culbertson was a soldier in the war of 1812 and died when his son Alexander was but six years of age. The latter was born in this county, August 20, 1809, and following his father's death was reared by his uncle, who came to Ohio from Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, about 1812 or 1815. Coshocton county was then largely an unsettled and unimproved district. The forests were uncut, the prairies uncultivated and the streams unbridged. Many wild animals still roamed in the woods and it was not an unusual thing for Mr. Culbertson, the great- uncle of our subject, to stand in his own doorway and shoot deer and turkeys. Indians also visited the neighborhood and there were still many evidences of the occupancy of this district by the red men. Alexander Culbertson was reared amid the wild scenes of pioneer life. During his boyhood and early manhood the homes of the neighborhood were largely log cabins and much of the cooking was done over the old time fireplace, while tallow candles were used for lighting purposes. As the years passed by Alexander engaged in farming, making that occupation his life work. He married Elizabeth Wilson, who was born September 17, 1809, in this county, also a
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representative of one of its oldest families. They became the parents of nine children: Ann J., deceased; Mary, the widow of L. Fletcher and a resident of Tuscarawas county; Robert W., deceased; Thomas W.; Margaret, deceased; James H., who was born in 1840 and is living in Union county, Iowa; David R., who was born in 1843 and resides in Columbus this state; Aaron S., from whom no news has been received since 1867; and E. Isabel, the wife of James Early, of Tuscarawas county. The father died May 8, 1859, having for about six and a half years survived his wife, who passed away September 10, 1852. Of 'their children, Margaret died December 28, 1859, and R. W. died April 26, 1866, The five brothers all served as soldiers of the civil war and were loyal defenders of the Union cause.
Thomas W. Culbertson was reared on the home farm and early became familiar with the work of the fields. He continued with his father until he attained his majority and then bought a farm in Oxford township of one hundred acres. He owns this property to the present time and lived upon it until about six years ago, when he retired and removed to Isleta. He was an industrious, energetic man, who faithfully performed his duties day by day., and as the years advanced he won -prosperity, resulting from his diligence and careful management. He cultivated his fields according to the modern methods of farming, securing the latest improved machinery and practiced the rotation of crops.
The only interruption to his business career up to the time of his retirement came in 1864, when he enlisted as a soldier of the Civil war, becoming a member of Company E, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which he was made corporal. He afterward reenlisted as a member of Company A, Eighty-eighth Regiment of Ohio Infantry and was mustered out at the close of the' war. After the war he returned home and resumed farming, in which he continued successfully until his labors have brought him sufficient capital to enable him to retire and yet enjoy the comforts of life.
On the 15th of September, 1859, Mr. Culbertson was married to Miss Martha J. Rehard, a native of this county, and one of the six children of Leonard and Catharine Rehard. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Culbertson were born eight children: Elsworth, who was born in 1861, but has now passed away; Clara G., who was born March 31, 1864, and is the wife of V. E. Leighinger, of Tuscarawas county; Robert Walter, who was born May 25, 1867, and is living in Tuscarawas county; Leona, the wife of George T. Mulvain, also of Tuscarawas county; Charles, who was born in 1879 and is now deceased; Lucy E., the wife of C. M. Henderson, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Ora 0., the wife of H. B. Denser, a resident of Coshocton; and Albert B., who was born January 2, 1884, and is yet at home. The wife and mother died June 18, 1886, at the age of forty-six years, and on the 3d of October, 1889, Mr. Culbertson married Mrs. Thomas H. Wellard, a widow and a daughter of Benjamin R. and Henrietta (Ricketts) Shaw. Her father was a native of Maryland and came to Coshocton county at a very early date, Mrs. Shaw was born in Muskingum county, Ohio. Her family numbered eight children, of whom four are living: Nettie W., now the wife of R. Handlan, of