|
750 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES RADNOR TOWNSHIP. JOHN A. CONE, lawyer, Radnor. The subject of this biography was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Jan. 17, 1836. He is the third of a family of thirteen children (twelve of whom are now living) of John W. and Mary (Williams) Cone, appropriate mention of whom is made in the history of Thompson Township, of this work. Our subject's early youth and manhood was passed in assisting his father in his woolen and saw mills, on the Scioto River, in Thompson Township ; he attended the common schools of the neighborhood until 22 years of age, when he entered the O. W. U., of Delaware, Ohio, where he remained for nearly two years ; at the expiration of that time, he began the study of law under the instructions of Reid & Eaton, attorneys, of Delaware; at the end of four years, he passed examination and was admitted to the bar. During the time of his study, he enlisted in the home guards and went out to intercept the course of the famous rebel General, Stonewall Jackson ; after an absence of some three months, he returned to his home in Ohio ; in 1864, he went as a First Lieutenant in O. N. G., Co. E, to assist in defense of Washington, D. C. Mr. Cone was a practitioner of law for some years, and in connection with that he was Principal of the schools of Radnor. Was united in marriage with Mary E. George Nov. 29, 1864 ; she was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Sept. 15, 1841 ; she is the daughter of Rev. Elias George, a Baptist minister and one of the first settlers of Central Ohio ; from this marriage they have one child-Stella G., born Aug. 1, 1872. Mr. Cone has held the offices of Justice of the Peace, Township Clerk, etc. Mr. Cone is a Democrat, and is respected and esteemed by all who know him. THOMAS W. COX, stock-raiser and farmer P. O. Delaware. The subject of this biography was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, July 19, 1827. He is son of John N. and Elizabeth (Gallant) Cox. The father, when a young married man, and while preparing to emigrate to the United States from England, his native country, lost by death his young wife; he arrived in the United States in 1818, and soon after came to Delaware Co., Ohio. From his marriage with Miss Gallant, there were nine children, four of whom are now living. He died May 12, 1862 ; he was a man of considerable culture, and held, in an early day, many positions of honor and trust; his widow is still living, and resides in the village of Radnor. Our subject was brought up on a farm ; he received about such education as the schools of that early day afforded ; when 21 years of age, he began for himself as a farmer; beginning as he did (without any means), he is deserving of much credit, for he has by close attention to business, combined with industry and economy, secured to himself and family a goodly share of this world's goods ; he owns a nicely improved farm of 100 acres, nearly all of which is under a high state of cultivation. He was united in marriage with Margaret Penry March 9, 1848, she is daughter of David Penry, the well-known pioneer of Radnor Township; she was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, July 16, 1827 ; from this union there were five children, four of whom are now living-John N., Mary E., Chester and Walter ; the one deceased was named Jessie E. Mr. Cox has held nearly all the township offices in the gift of the people; he is a man of much culture and refinement; a Republican politically, and one of the self-made men of the county. RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 751 CHARLES CURTISS, wool-grower and farmer; P. O. Radnor; son of Marcus and Katie (Newell) Curtiss, and is one of a family of eight children, four of whom are yet living. The father came to Ohio in 1808. John Curtiss, grandfather of Charles, was a man of great and decided intellect, and was a commissioned officer, in the war of independence, and young Curtiss' mother's father was one of the select band of troops that so nobly fought for the great boon of liberty in the war of the Revolution. Marcus Curtiss, father of our subject, was in the war of 1812 as a private. When 20 years of age, Charles commenced doing business for himself, although still living with his parents; the father's death occurred Dec. 1, 1868, and the mother's September, 1870 ; these people were among the early settlers in Ohio. Our subject was married, Jan. 22, 1845, to Martha P. Higley, of Massachusetts ; the result of this union was five children-Ardelia L., Marcus, Augustus H., Katie A. and Gains. The mother died Sept. 9, 1873. Mr. Curtiss married again, his second wife being Maria Downing to whom he was married Oct. 29, 1877. Mr. Curtiss is a Republican, and a Presbyterian. Owns 138 acres of land in Radnor Township, and 72 acres in Genoa Township ; his occupation is that of farming and wool-growing. Mr. Curtiss has a valuable collection of ancient manuscripts, among which is his grandfather's commission as ensign in the war of independence. He keeps thoroughly posted on county and township matters of public interest, and is said to be among the most successful farmers of Radnor Township. WILLIAM DUNLAP, farmer; P. O. Delaware; was born in the city of Lancaster, Fairfield Co., Ohio, May 29, 1822 ; his parents, Robert and Susan (Jones) Dunlap, moved from Rockingham Co., Va., to Fairfield Co., Ohio, in 1818 ; the father was a hatter by trade, a business he engaged in soon after coming to Ohio ; he had been a soldier in the war of 1812, and was a man much respected by all who knew him ; he died soon after his coming to the State, and was followed by his wife in 1831. Our subject received the rudiments of a common-school education ; soon after his father's death, he went to live with an uncle in Licking Co.; he remained with his uncle until 15 years of age, at which time he entered a flouring mill in Licking Co., where he remained several years, working in the mill and hauling flour from the mill to Mt. Vernon, Newark, and other places; while working in this mill and during his stay in Licking Co., William Rosecrans (who afterward became the famous Gen. Rosecrans) was his constant companion, and together with him did nearly all the teaming for the mill; after leaving the mill, our subject for some years ran on the canal and drove stage. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Seever Oct. 14, 1847; she was born in Fairfield Co., Ohio, May 9, 1825 ; her father, Peter Seever, came from Virginia to Fairfield Co. in 1807. From our subject's marriage to Miss Seever there were five children - Susan and Hannah (living), Martha A., Mary C. and Oliver P. (deceased). Mr. Dunlap has held a number of township offices, in all of which, he was a popular and efficient officer. He is a Republican. He owns a nicely improved farm of seventy-five acres, which has obtained by his own hard work. WILLIAM DAVIS, farmer; P. O. Radnor , was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Feb. 9, 1836 ; is the son of John and Margaret (Thomas) Davis, natives of Wales, and is one of twins, his brother Robert being the other. The parents came to this country at an early day and settled in Troy Township, Delaware Co., Ohio. The father was industrious and hard-working, and owned a saw-mill near Delaware; he died when William was a child. After his death, the mother married Mr. Jenkins; she died in July, 1875. Our subject worked by the month on a farm, had no educational advantages and was misused by his stepfather, but managed in eight years to save $1,400, which he afterward lost. He was married to Catharine Penry Feb. 2, 1860, who was born in Radnor Township Dec. 5, 1824 ; her parents were William and Mary Penry, both natives; of Wales, who came to the United States in 1819; they were the parents of nine children, two of whom are yet living. There were four children in William's family, and two are yet living-Stephen and John W.; the other two died in infancy. All the family are Republicans, and all belong to the Congregational Church. The family is well known and universally respected. VALENTINE DILDINE, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Radnor; was born in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, Aug. 22, 1821 ; is a son of Ralph and Effie (Minter) Dildine. The father was a native of New Jersey, where he was married and remained until about 40 years of age when he came to Ohio, locating in Montgomery Co. Soon after their arrival in that county, his wife died, leaving five small children to his care. During the war of 1812, he served his country 752 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: under Gen. Harrison; in 1812, he came to Delaware Co., where for the most part he remained until his death, in 1855. The mother of our subject (the father's second wife, and mother of five children) departed this life in 1859. The parents, for a number of years previous to their decease, resided with Valentine and his brother William, upon the farm they first located upon, and which the two brothers now own ; it consists of 175 acres of nicely improved land. Valentine was united in marriage with Miss Mary A. Thompson, of Delaware Co., Ohio; from this union there were eight children, five of whom are now living, viz.: William H., Mary J., Charles, Newton and Harriet; deceased, Lucretia, Rebecca A. and John B. Mrs. Dildine was born May 30, 1831; site died April 25, 1870. Mr. Dildine was again married Oct. 16, 1872 ; this wife, Miss Maria Shoemaker, was born in Ashley, Delaware Co., Ohio, July 12, 1836 ; by this marriage there is one child, Ralph. Both Mr. Dildine and his brother William are stanch Republicans, and consistent members of the M. E. Church ; they take an active part in all public improvements, and are men of much more than ordinary ability. Our subject has done much to improve the roads of the county ; he held for some years the responsible position of President of the first turnpike road built in Radnor Township. DAVID S. DAVIS, stock-raiser and farmer ; P. O. Delaware. The parents of our subject, James and Mary (Jones) Davis, were natives of Breconshire, Wales, where they remained until 1842, when they emigrated to the United States, and located in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., where they have since resided ; they are the parents of eight. children ; the father was always engaged in agricultural pursuits ; he has for a number of years been a confirmed invalid, but has borne his misfortune with a degree of patience only possible to those who have ever lived exemplary lives and who have a full assurance of peace and rest hereafter. Our subject was brought upon a farm, receiving a good common-school education. During the late war, he served his country three years and eight mouths in Co. E, 66th O. V. I, participating in the battles of Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Port Republic, and a number of lesser engagements; after his return home, he began farming, a business he has since followed. He was married, Feb. 8, 1866, to Miss Mary Williams she was born in Delaware Co., Ohio; July 28, 1843; four children are the result of this union-James L., Ann N., Perry R. and William F. Our subject has for a number of years had sole charge of his father's nicely improved farm of 142 acres; politically he is an uncompromising Republican, and, to use his own expression, "believes in voting as he shot." JOSEPH H. DUNLAP, stock-dealer and farmer ; P. O. Delaware. The grandfather of Joseph Dunlap was a soldier of the "war of 1812." It was while in the army he saw for the first time the beautiful valley of the Scioto ; in 1813, he quit the army and came to Delaware Co., Ohio, and entered a large tract of land, upon which he moved the following year. Col. John F. and Martha C. (McKinnie) Dunlap. the parents of our subject, were both natives of Franklin Co., Penn., and the parents of five children, four of whom are now living; Col. Dunlap was a surveyor, and a great portion of the lands in Radnor and adjoining townships were surveyed by him - he was one of the most energetic and learned men of that day ; held the offices of County Treasurer and Auditor at an early day, and was for a number of years Colonel of the State militia ; he departed this life in 1857; the wife died in 1873 at an advanced age; one of their sons, John N., died at Vicksburg, Miss., while in the service of his country ; he was a commissioned officer in the 69th O. V. I. The mother's father, Judge Josiah McKinney, came from Franklin Co., Penn., to Marietta, Ohio, in 1800, and from there to Liberty Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, in 1803, where he remained until his death ; he was one of the first white men to locate permanently in Central Ohio. Our subject's youth was passed on a farm ; his father f removed to the city of Delaware when he was quite a lad ; there young Dunlap had the advantages for obtaining a good education, which he was not slow to improve; he soon became a proficient scholar ; after the parents' return to the farm, the father dealt largely in horses, cattle and sheep. Our subject when quite young was intrusted with droves of horses, cattle and sheep, and went with them overland to the principal markets in the East. It was at this time he conceived a great liking for the stock business. and the greater portion of his life has been spent buying and shipping stock ; his experience when young has been of great advantage to him, as can be attested, for he is one among the few successful stock-dealers of the county. Mr. Dunlap and Thomas Watkins have together greatly improved the horses of Radnor and adjoining townships by importing and RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 753 keeping some of the best Clydesdale horses ever owned in the county. Mr. Dunlap was united in marriage with Josephine Latimer Oct. 2, 1873 ; she is daughter of Sylvester Latimer, a native of Connecticut, and one of the early settlers of Delaware Co. ; he was united in marriage with Miss Harriet, daughter of Col. Forrest Meeker, of Stratford Township, this county; from our subject's union with Miss Latimer there are two daughters, Grace and Martha L. Mr. Dunlap owns 120 acres of well-improved land, is a stanch Republican, and one of the prominent and influential men of the county in which he lives. BENJ. F. DAVIDS, farmer; P. O. Radnor; is the son of Sylvanus and Margaret (Evans) Davis, natives of South Wales, and was born in the year 1846. His father's family consisted of eleven children, six of whom are yet living; the father came to this country in 1797, and first settled in Westmoreland Co., Penn., but afterward, in 1810, removed to Radnor, Ohio. Ile was united in marriage, in the year 1826, to our subject's mother, who had come to Ohio in 1817. Our subject passed his youth on his father's farm, and when he became 20 years of age, commenced doing for himself, although still living with his parents. He was united in marriage to Lucy E. Humphreys Oct. 22, 1875 ; one child was born them-Mary, born Jan. 1, 1878 ; she died Oct. 22, 1879. Our subject's father died Feb. 23, 1872 ; the mother followed him Sept. 19, 1878. Mr. Davids is a Republican. He enlisted in the 100-day service, but afterward for three years; being but 15 years old, his father recalled him. He has imported some fine Clydesdale horses, and at present has some of the finest ones in the county, and takes great pride in improvements of this kind. He owns 178 acres of well-improved land, pleasantly situated on the banks of the Scioto River, and within easy reach of railroad and post office. Both he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church, and are universally respected. BOWEN EVANS, grain-dealer, Radnor. Our subject was horn in North Wales Aug. 28, 1845 ; is the son of William B. and Mary (Williams) Evans, both natives of Wales. and the parents of ten children, five of whom are now living. The parents emigrated from Wales to this country in 1848, and located in Northumberland Co., Penn. After living there a period of five years, they removed to Radnor Township. Here the father departed this life in 1863; the mother is yet living in the township. The father's business was that of farming, and here our subject passed his youth and early manhood. He received as good an education as the common schools afforded. Began business for himself when 27 years of age. Was united in marriage to Minerva Wise Dec. 25, 1871 ; she was born in Troy Township Feb. 13, 1845. This marriage resulted in the birth of four children-Arthur, Jessie, Hosea W. and Adda. Mr. Evans enlisted in the 100-day service, Co. A., 145th O. N. G. Is a Republican in politics, and among the main business men of Radnor. DR. H. EDWARDS, physician and surgeon. Radnor. Among the enterprising men and successful physicians of Radnor is Dr. Edwards ; he was born Jan. 1, 1847, and is the youngest of a family of twelve children, of which our subject and a brother, David M., are the only surviving children. The parents, William and Dorothy (Thomas) Edwards, were natives of Montgomeryshire, Wales ; in 1832, they emigrated to America, coming direct to Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio; the father's occupation was wagon-making, a business he engaged in on coming to this country ; he also purchased a farm of sixty acres, on which his family resided; when 19 years of age, our subject selected medicine as his vocation in life; after reading for a time under the instruction of Dr. Glidden, of Radnor, now of Prospect, he commenced attending medical lectures in Columbus, Ohio, in 1867 ; after attending three consecutive terms at Columbus, he graduated with honors, and then, locating in his native village, he has remained practicing his profession ever since. He was united in marriage to Hannah M. Evans, daughter of Robert and Margaret (Griffiths) Evans, Dec. 11, 1874; from this union there were two children born, one of whom is yet living-Maggie Orie, born April 22, 1876. His wife is a member of the Congregational Church. Mr. . Edwards is a Presbyterian, and Independent in politics, and is a man of considerable skill and ability in his profession, being medical college of Columbus as a student of i more than ordinary ability in surgery. MATTHEW C. FLEMING, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor. Among the leading and prominent men of Radnor Township, is Mr. M. C. Fleming ; he was born on the farm he now owns and occupies. Mathew's father, H. C Fleming, was a native of Pennsylvania. while his mother was of Welsh descent; when but, a lad the father emigrated to Delaware County and 754 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: engaged in the lucrative business of farming ; here it was that Mr. Fleming met her who afterward became Mrs. Fleming. He wits united in marriage April 24, 1823, to Susanna Jones ; from this union there were four sons and two daughters, four of whom are yet living ; the mother departed this life Dec. 28, 1849 ; the father was again married ; Catherine Evans was the second wife to whom he was married, February, 1851 ; she was a widow lady with a family of five children, four of whom are yet living; this last union resulted in the birth of one child, a girl, yet living; the father died March 7, 1873, followed by his wife June 3, 1873. The marriage ceremony of Matthew and Miss Melvina C. Finley was celebrated the 2d of December, 1861. The wife was a daughter of our subject's father's second wife ; from this union there were three sons and two daughters- Hattie V., Lola and Alonzo (twins), John F. and Charles L. Mr. Fleming enlisted in Co. A, 145th O. V. I.; after serving out his time 100 days he returned home and again commenced the duties devolving on a successful farmer. He has ninety-one acres of excellent land, all of which is under a high state of cultivation. He is a Democrat, and liberal in religious views; is nicely settled near the Scioto River, where he enjoys the many comforts of a successful firmer. DAVID R. GRIFFITH, stock-raiser and farmer; P.O. Radnor ; was born in North Wales March 1, 1805 ; son of John G. and Margaret (Roberts) Griffith. There were six children in the family, four sons and two daughters, two of whom are yet living. The subject of this sketch, together with his parents, came to this country in 1833. Our subject was married in Wales, and on arriving in America, they came direct to Radnor Township. After his marriage with Mary Peugh, daughter o Richard and Mary Peugh, which occurred in 1830, he made farming his chosen vocation ; he first secured 100 acres of land, in the northwestern part of the township, and afterward made an addition of 100 acres more. In our subject's family, there were ten children, nine of whom are yet living-John R., Richard P., Mary A. (deceased), Margaret A., George M., Joel, Martha J., Wm. H., Elizabeth and Albert; six of these are married; one son, Richard, was in Co. G, 121st O. V. I.; was wounded at Perryville, by a gunshot wound in the hip, after which he was discharged and came home. All of the children in the family are now living in Radnor Township. Is a Republican in politics and a Congregationalist in religion, as are. also, his family. Mr. Griffith has been living in Radnor Township for 47 years. He started out in life a poor boy, but by enduring the hardships of a pioneer's life, he has accumulated as nice a property as there is in the township. His father died in 1838, and the mother in 1846. T. R. GRIFFITH, carpenter, Prospect; was born in Marion Co., Ohio, June 26, 1838 ; is a son of John and Mary (Hughs) Griffith, natives of North `Vales. In the year 1835, the father, then a young unmarried man, left Wales and came direct to the new Welsh settlement in Radnor Township, Ohio. Soon after his arrival in this country, he was united in marriage to the mother of our subject. By this marriage there were three children, one son and two daughters; the mother's death occurred in 1850. About one year after the death of his wife, Mr. Griffith was again married; his second wife was Ann M. Hord ; by this second marriage there were three children, two sons and one daughter ; the death of our subject's father occurred in 1860. When Mr. Griffith first came to Radnor Township, he was a poor boy, but by hard labor and close attention to his business (farming), he obtained a competency. Our subject spent his youthful days on his father's farm, assisting him in his duties. He was united in marriage Jan. 5, 1864, to Elizabeth Kyle, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Boyd) Kyle. By this union there are two children - Senora B., born April 27, 1866, and William F., born July 27 , 1867 ; the mother departed this life Sept. 17, 1870. Politically speaking, Mr. Griffith is a Republican ; religiously, a Baptist. He enlisted in Co. E, 66th O. V. I., Nov. 8, 1861 ; was in the battles of Port Republic, Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain and Savannah, besides all the other battles the 66th took a part in; he was discharged July 22, 1865, at New York City. Mr. Griffith is a regular ordained minister of the Baptist Church; is also among the best carpenters in the township, many of the best buildings in the township having been built by him. MISS CATHARINE GRIFFITHS; P. O. Prospect; ; born in Radnor Township Feb. 2, 1857; is the daughter of David and Ann (Rowlands) Griffiths, both of whom are mentioned elsewhere in this work. Miss Griffiths is a pleasant young lady, and is highly respected in the neighborhood; all her life she has lived with her father, taking a daughter's share of the burdens RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 755 of the family; she has an active mind, good taste, and excellent judgment; she takes much pleasure in reading good books, and in all womanly duties is kind, patient and sympathetic. She has a large circle of friends, and is highly esteemed by all. DAVID GRIFFITHS, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor; was born in South Wales Feb. 13, 1816. His father, David Griffiths, and mother, Mary (Griffiths) Griffiths, came directly from Wales to Radnor Township, Ohio, in 1819, bringing their family of four sons and three daughters; they stopped for a few years in Radnor . then Delhi), but afterward purchased a farm adjoining the town, upon which they lived nineteen years, and where the subject of this sketch passed his youth ; the father then gave up farming and moved into Radnor, where he remained until his death, aged 76 years; the mother followed him Jan. 19, 1875, aged 84 years. Mr Griffiths was united in marriage, Aug. 26, 1844, to Ann, daughter of Abraham Rowland, and a family of nine children resulted from this union, three of whom are yet living-Sarah J., born Sept. 25, 1847 ; John J., born Jan. 9, 1850, and Catharine, born Feb. 2, 1857. Sarah and John are married, the former to Henry Ashbrook, and the latter to Elizabeth Curren, and both are living near their parents. Mr. Griffiths, though but a boy when his father first came to Radnor, recalls vividly the hardships and dangers through which they passed in their new home ; he owns 67 ½ acres of well-improved land ; is a Republican and a Congregationalist; has had three wives, marrying the second in 1862, and his present wife, Loantha (Rowley) Griffiths, who was the widow of Thos. Rowley, her maiden name being Stockwell, June 26, 1879. No children resulted from the second marriage. Mr. Griffiths enjoys an enviable reputation for industry and honesty throughout the neighborhood. JAMES B. HODGES, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Delaware; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Feb. 7, 1844; is son of Nathaniel W. and Sally A. (Underhill) Hodges, whose sketch appears in this work. Our subject received a common-school education; in the late war, he well and faithfully served his country, in Co. E, 66th O. V. I. ; at Port Republic he received two severe gun-shot wounds in the left arm ; he served three years and two months in the "gallant old 66th," and was a brave and gallant soldier; he was married to Mary G. Howison Feb. 9, 1869; she was born in Muskingum Co., Ohio, Feb. 10, 1849; they have one child, Clarence 0. Mr. Hodges has devoted nearly all his life to agricultural pursuits, and is to-day one of the most successful and prominent farmers in the township. He is a stanch Republican WILLIAM HERBERT, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor. Our subject came from Breconshire, South Wales, with his parents, Benjamin and Margaret (Morgans) Herbert, in 1818; Was but a child 5 years of age at that time he was born May 19, 1813, and was one of a family of eight children, six of whom are living at the present time. The father was a sober, industrious man, a consistent member of the Baptist Church, held in an early day many positions of honor and trust in church and township he departed this life June 13, 1858, followed by his wife Feb. 11, 1868. The long and eventful life of our subject has been passed upon a farm and working at carpentering; in early life, he received such education as the common schools of that early day afforded; he served an apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade with his brother Lemuel, after which he worked with him some years; he has in connection with farming followed his trade since he began doing business for himself. His marriage with Elizabeth Jones was celebrated Nov. 2, 1846, she was born in Breconshire, Wales, July 22, 1822, and is a daughter of Rees and Rachel (Evans) Jones, who came from Wales to the United States in 1842; from our subject's marriage there were five children, three of whom are now living-Benjamin L., William, and Mollie E.; the deceased-Elizabeth A. and Margaret R. Mr. Herbert and wife are among the well-informed people of the county. Mr. Herbert is a Republican. He owns 100 acres of nicely improved land, all of which is under a high state of cultivation NATHANAEL W. HODGES, farmer and stock-dealer P. O. Delaware. Joseph Hodges, a soldier of the war of 1812, and the father of Nathanael W., was a native of Massachusetts; there he was married to Clarissa Perkins, also a native of Massachusetts, and the mother of thirteen children by him; in 1832, they moved with their family to Erie Co., N. Y., where they remained some three years, and then came to Geauga Co., Ohio three years after their coming to Ohio (1838), the mother departed this life in 1853, the father returned to the home of his childhood, soon after to be called to his reward. Nathanael W. had but few advantages for obtaining an education - at the early age of 12 years, he 756 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: was placed in a large cotton factory, where he remained until his parents removed to Western New York ; when the parents came to Ohio, he came with them, but after remaining in the State some three years he returned to New York, stopping in Chautauqua Co.; here he met Miss Sally A. Underhill, to whom he was married Sept, 9, 1838; she was born in Fairfield Co., Conn., April 20, 1815. Mr. Hodges remained in Chautauqua Co. one year after his marriage, and then removed to Ohio and settled in Franklin Co., where they remained until 1843, when they moved to this county, which they have since made their home. In 1850 Mr. Hodges crossed the Plains to California, where he remained nearly two years, and then returned to his home in Ohio. He owns 183 acres of land, nicely situated on the right bank of the Scioto River, in Radnor Township; he commenced as a poor boy, and is most emphatically a self-made man. Politically, he has been identified with the Whig and Republican parties; of late years, however, he has voted with the Prohibition party. He has been a temperate, industrious man during his long and eventful life time, and is an earnest worker in the temperance cause; he is one of the most successful breeders of short-horn cattle in the county. Mr. Hodges and wife take a deep interest in the cause of religion, both being consistent members of the M. E. Church. They are the parents of six children-Julia M., Ellen F., James B., Harriet L., and George H., living-Helen, deceased. MORRIS HUMPHREYS, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor. Among the prominent and influential men of Radnor Township, is the subject of this sketch ; he was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, June 26. 1829 ; his parents, John and Elizabeth (Chidlaw) Humphreys, were natives of North Wales. In 1818, John Humphreys, then 20 years of age, came to the United States and settled in Radnor Township. Delaware Co., Ohio. His marriage with Miss Chidlaw did not occur until some years later; her father, Benjamin C. Chidlaw, came from Wales to Ohio with his wife Mary, and two children, in 1821, and settled in Radnor Township. Our subject's father was an intelligent and energetic man, and a consistent Christian ; he was one of the first township officers, and during his lifetime held many positions of honor and trust; he departed this life Dec. 9, 1873, and his wife in 1830. Our subject was reared upon a farm, receiving a good common school education. He was united in marriage with Margaret E. Wasson April 3, 1851 ; she was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, June 29, 1829 ; she is the daughter of .William M. and Lucy (Minter) Wasson, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Kentucky; the Minters came to Delaware Co. in 1804 ; the Wassons did not come until some years later; both families, however, were among the earliest settlers, and their descend ants are to-day among the most prominent and respected citizens of the county. From our subject's union with Miss Wasson, there were eight children, seven of whom are living- Lucy E., John W., Margaret A., William McV., Mary A., Harriet and Benjamin C.; the deceased was named Morris J. Mr. Humphreys owns 332 acres of nicely improved land in Radnor Township, and 120 acres near Emporia, Kan. He is a stanch Republican. Both he and his wife are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. ISRAEL HEDGES, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Prospect ; son of Caleb and Mary (Clellel) Hedges; was born in Fairfield Co., Ohio, March 27, 1821 ; there were ten children in this family. six sons and four daughters ; the father was a cooper by trade, but followed farming as a business; he died in Fairfield Co. Nov. 17, 1874, the mother died in 1856. The subject commenced business for himself in 1841. , Was united in marriage the 7th of September, 1848, to Mary Barnet, daughter of Robert L. Barnet, a native of Maryland, and the mother a daughter of Judge Augustus, of Fairfield Co. In Israel's family there are eleven children, six sons and five daughters Benj. T., Otis J., Mary J., Elenora (deceased), Elizabeth and Hannah (twins), George E. and John A. (John A. was drowned in the Scioto River, 28th of June, 1878), Ida V., Charles W. and Robert L. In politics, Mr. Hedges is a Republican ; has held various township offices. This family are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Hedges is a man who has had little or no chance, we might say, to get an education, but at the same time is a man of considerable ability and talent ; he has sought for and obtained a patent on a reaping machine, which will eventually prove of great benefit ; has 100 acres of well-improved land, which he bought at $14.50 per acre in 1851, it then being almost entirely woodland. Mr. Hedges is a man who has, to considerable extent., followed the trade of blacksmithing, a trade of which he is the master ; he owns one of the finest stock-farms in the township, having some of the best blooded horses, cattle, sheep and hog a now in RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 757 the county; the greater part of his farm is underlaid with a stratum of the best sulphate of lime, making the land very productive ; he is respected and esteemed by his friends and neighbors. W. W. JONES, farmer; P. O. Radnor; the subject of this sketch was born in Radnor Township, Ohio, in the year 1825; his father, John P. Jones, was a native of South Wales; his mother, Mary (Penry) Jones; there were six children in the family, four of whom are yet living. The marriage ceremony of Wm. W. Jones and Eleanor Evans was celebrated in 1852. The wife's father's name was John Evans, and his wife's name Margaret (Jones) Evans; there were five children in this family ; the number of children in the subject's family is seven-Margaret A., John P., Francis C., Harvey, Elizabeth, Charles and Eleanor. Mr. Jones has two sisters and one brother living in Radnor Township. Mrs. Jones is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Jones is a Republican. He owns 197 acres of nicely improved land; has held the offices of Township Trustee, School Director, Road Supervisor, etc.; is a man of good, steady habits and unpretentious manners; has the esteem and good, will of his fellow-men and neighbors. PHILIP JONES, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor ; was born in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, July 25, 1820 ; is a son of John P. and Mary (Penry) Jones, both natives of Breconshire South Wales ; there they were married, and three daughters born to them ; in 1818; they emigrated to the United States, arriving in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, Oct. 13 of the same year; two children were born to them after their arrival in this country; at the present time, four of the children are living. John P. Jones and wife were industrious, intelligent people, consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, and universally respected by all their friends and neighbors. The father died in 1864, and the mother in 1863. Our subject was raised upon a farm. receiving such education as the schools afforded ; he had the care of his parents during their old sae. He was united in marriage with Jane E. Tomley June 14, 1853 ; she was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, June 28, 1822 ; from this marriage there are five children-Richard E.. Sue M, W. Guy, Jennie F. and Jessie B. Mr. Jones has held a great many positions of honor and trust, and is a man of more than ordinary ability, and liberally contributes to all enterprises that tend to build up or benefit the community in which he lives; he owns 200 acres of nicely improved land. Mr. Jones is a Republican. THOMAS T. JONES, farmer; P. O. Radnor. Thomas T. Jones is a native of Radnor Township, being born Sept. 10, 1848 ; is the son of Evan T. and Ellen Jones, whose biography accompanies this work; our subject passed his youthful days on his father's farm, assisting him in his farm duties ; his education was as good as the common schools could give. His marriage with Miss Della Finley was solemnized Dec. 25, 1870 ; she is the daughter of George W. and Angelina (Williams) Finley; in her father's family there were five children, three of whom are yet living ; the result of the union of Mr. Jones and Miss Finley bore the fruit of one child, Wray Everette, born Nov. 16, 1878. Mr. Jones and wife are consistent and active members of the M. E. Church. Is a Democrat. Mr. Jones is a man that keeps thoroughly posted on county and township enterprises and news, and takes an active part in laudable county enterprises. DAVID W. JONES, farmer; P. O. Radnor; is son of Rees T. and Sarah (Williams) Jones; I was born in Breconshire, Wales, Sept. 15, 1840; he, with his parents and brothers and sisters, emigrated from Wales to this country, coming direct to Radnor Township June 7, 1861 ; in his father's family there are five children-three sons and two daughters-all of whom are living in Ohio, and married. On arrival, our subject's father bought 200 acres of land near the village of Radnor, known as the "Old Warren Place;" here David spent his youthful days going to school, and in later years assisting his father on his farm; in 1864, he commenced doing business for himself, although still making his home with his father. Oct. 31, 1867, he was united in marriage to Mary Thomas, eldest daughter of James Thomas, of Radnor Township. Mr. Jones, in connection with his brother Rees, owns 170 acres of nicely improved property; he is a stanch Republican ; both himself and wife are members of the Congregational Church. MRS. J. B. JONES, Radnor, wife of the late John B. Jones, and daughter of John and Mahala (Jones) Ellis, was born the 19th of March, 1828, in Belmont Co., Ohio. Was united in marriage to John Smails Nov. 16, 1844; two children f were the result of this union-Thomas A. and John S.; Thomas is now living in Indiana. Mr. Smails departed this life in 1848. Mrs. Smails married again July 24, 1853, to Mr. Jones; three 758 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: children were the fruit of this union-Martha J. and Margaret E. (deceased) and James W. Mr. Jones died Dec. 5, 1864, in the hospital at Nashville, Tenn., from disease contracted while in his country's service. Dec. 30,1869, Mrs. Jones and John B. Jones were married ; the father of this man was David Jones; John B. was bqrn in North Wales, and came to this country in 1832; he was a fuller by trade and a farmer by practice ; from his marriage with his first wife, Gwen Jones, in 1833, there were six children, three of whom are living and three are dead-David N., Edward M. and Cassie F., living ; those deceased were David, Festus and Dorothy A.; his wife died Sept. 23, 1866; Mr. Jones had no children by his second wife, the subject of this sketch ; he died Dec. 11, 1876. During his life, he held the responsible position of Infirmary Director for three years; besides this office, he has held almost all the township offices. Mr. Jones was a man of good, steady habits, moral character and of considerable ability. Mrs. Jones is a Christian lady of good education, and an active worker in the temperance cause, and a woman who reads upon the issues of the day. JOHN A. JONES, retired farmer and shoemaker ; P. O. Prospect. There is probably not a single one of the old settlers of Radnor Township more deserving of notice than the subject of this sketch ; he was among its earliest pioneers. Mr. Jones was born in South Wales in April, 1796; he was the son of Thomas and Gwen (Byner) nor) Jones; the father's second wife, Miss Humphreys, was Grandmother of Morris Humphreys, whose biography appears in this work ; they had ten children, three of whom are yet living; they emigrated to this then almost unbroken wilderness in the year 1818 ; they located in Radnor Township, where our subject has remained ever since. The marriage ceremony of John A. Jones and Lettie Ludwig was celebrated in the spring of 1825 ; the young wife was a native of North Wales, coming to this country at a very early day, the result of this union was four children, two of whom are living; Gwen B. and Lettie L ; both are now married, the former to William Gast, deceased, the latter to Isaac Roberts ; from the eldest's marriage to Mr. Gast, there were five sons and one daughter-John A., Albert, Lafayette, James M., Alies D. and Lettice M.; all are married excepting the youngest son, Alies. Mr. Jones second daughter's marriage bore the fruit of three children-John J. Isaac M. and Levi V. Mrs. Jones, wife of our subject, departed this life at her residence Aug. 11, 1878; her marriage with Mr. Jones was one of unalloyed happiness, spending fifty-three years of her life assisting her husband in the toils and hardships of their new home. She and her husband were consistent and devoted members of the Baptist Church ; Mrs. Jones was an exemplary Christian and a devoted mother ; her death leaves an aged husband and many friends to mourn her loss. Mr. Jones lives with his daughter, Gwen B.; in former days, he was shoemaker for the whole neighborhood, a business he followed for a number of years. Is a stanch Republican and an honest, upright man in his dealings with men. He is 84 years old, and the oldest voter in Radnor Township; he has four great-grandchildren living, and is a man respected and loved by all his friends and acquaintances. GEORGE W. JONES. farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor ; was born in Licking Co., Ohio, in 1839. His father, David L. Jones, and mother, Elizabeth (Evans) Jones, were both natives of South Wales, the former being born in the year 1808, and the latter in 1807; there were eleven children in this family, six of whom are yet living-three sons and three daughters ; the father and mother were married in South Wales, and came to New York in 1836, where they made their home for two years, Mr. Jones following his trade of blacksmith for a livelihood ; after two years, they came to Licking Co., Ohio, where our subject was born ; in 1849, they came to Radnor Township; Delaware Co., Ohio, where they have ever since made their home. Feb. 25, 1869, the marriage ceremony of George W. Jones and Elizabeth Humphreys was solemnized; the wife's father's name was Humphrey Humphreys, that of the mother, Margaret (Griffiths) Humphreys ; in this family there were five children, one son and four daughters ; there are no children in the subject's family. Mr. Jones owns fifty acres of land to Radnor Township, and 226 acres in Prospect Township, Marion Co., Ohio. Politically, he is a Democrat, firmly adhering to the principles advocated by the National Democratic party. Mr. Jones and wife are members of the Congregational Church, at Radnor. He was a soldier in the war of the rebellion ; enlisted in Co. E, 66th O. V. I.; was mustered out on the 14th of March, 1865 ; was first in the Army of the Potomac, but was transferred to the Southwestern Army, then under Gen. Hooker, in the fall of 1863 was at the RADNOR TOWNSHIP - 759 battles of Chancellorsville, Antietam, Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain and a number of others ; was wounded three times, first at Cedar Mountain, Va.; second, at Antietam ; third, at Gettysburg. Mr. Jones is a man of good school education ; takes an active part in any matter that will prove to be a benefit to the community. EVIN T. JONES, farming and stock-raising ; P. O. Radnor ; was born in South Wales July 23, 1818 ; son of Thomas and Mary (Jenkins) Jones. Mrs. Jones, the mother of our subject, died in I825 ; the father, together with his family, came to this country about 1838, and followed farming as a business; our subject was then in his 19th year. In 1843, he was united in marriage to a widow lady, by name, Eleanor T. Jones, daughter of David O. and Eleanor (Haskins) Jones; she was first married to T. T. Jones in 1832 ; by her first husband, there were two sons-Wm. F. and David T.; both enlisted in Co. G, 121st O. V. I.; the youngest was promoted to the office of corporal for his bravery and meritorious conduct ; after three years in his country's service, he came home and died from the effect of disease contracted while serving his country. Wm. F. was mustered out at the conclusion of the war; their father died in 1840 ; the mother's marriage with our subject resulted in seven children, four of whom are yet living--Elizabeth, Thomas, Timothy and Mary E.; Benjamin, John and Eleanor, deceased; those living are now married. Mr. Jones is a Democrat; is a member of the Congregational Church ; owns 240 acres of nicely improved land, on which he has been living for about forty-two years ; takes little part in politics, and has the esteem and well-wishes of his neighbors. JOHN JAMES, stock-raiser and farmer ; P. O. Radnor. Was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, Feb. 14, 1821 ; is the son of John and Jane ( Roberts) James ; our subject was the only child in the family; when but a small lad he was left an orphan by the death of his parents; after their death he was installed in the family of his uncle, Thomas Roberts, with whom he lived for sixteen years, and learned the trade of milling ; it was about this time that Mr. James emigrated to America, locating at Utica, N. Y., where he pursued his chosen occupation for two years ; at the expiration of that time, he removed to Rochester, N. Y., working at the same trade ; he lived here one year and was married to Jemima Evans, daughter of Owen and Ann (Jones) Evans ; from Rochester our subject moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he engaged in the milling business for two years; at the end of that time, he discontinued the business and followed mercantile business for four years ; in 1850, he purchased 100 acres of land in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, and the year following moved his family to the home he had selected for them, where he has remained ever since pursuing the occupation of farming ; he is the father of eight children, three of whom are yet living-Mary J., born Aug. 14, 1852 ; Samuel E., born Oct. 8, 1855 ; William, born March 20, 1862. The names of those deceased are John T., Ann, Lucy A., and Owen T. Mr. James is a Republican ; his wife is a member of the Methodist Church, and the husband a member of the Congregational Church ; has held various township and district offices; is a man who wishes all landable works success, and is an honest and enterprising man. DAVID H. KYLE, stock-raiser and farmer; P. O. Radnor. James and Elizabeth (Boyd) Kyle, the parents of our subject, were natives of Ohio; the father was born Dec. 26, 1806, being the second white male child born in the township; Elizabeth Boyd, to whom he was married in 1827, was born Sept. 28,1809 ; Hugh Kyle, the grandfather of David, purchased the farm on which he resides in March, 1815, but had lived in the township much longer, having emigrated here some time during the eighteenth century, making them among the very earliest settlers in the county or township. David H. Kyle was born in Radnor Nov. 17, 1844 ; during his youth and early manhood, which were spent. in going to school and assisting his father on the farm, not much can be said of interest but what could be said of the average boy and young man ; when 21 years age he commenced doing business for himself as a farmer; he was united in marriage, March 21, 1871, to Elizabeth Griffiths, daughter of David R. Griffiths, whose biography accompanies this work. From this union there is one child, David J., born Jan. 26, 1878 ; in our subject's father'; family there were twelve children, of whom ten are yet living ; in connection with his brother John A. he owns the old homestead that has been in the family since 1815, a farm of 161 acres Mr. Kyle is a member of the Baptist Church a Republican in politics, and a man of influence it the neighborhood ; tracing the family history back we find the Kyle family among the earliest pioneers in the township ; the grandmother was the first to be buried in the Radnor Cemetery. 760 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: WILLIAM LAWRENCE, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Delaware; was born in Breconshire, Wales, Oct. 29, 1829; is son of David and Ann (Penry) Lawrence, both of whom were natives of Wales. In 1823, they emigrated to the United States arriving in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, in October of the same year; on the 17th of November, 1829, the father sickened and died; at the time of his death, there were five children in the family three sons and two daughters; the mother died Sept. 29, 1838. Our subject's early life was spent upon a farm; when 15 years of age, went to Delaware to learn the cabinet-maker's trade; he remained two years, then went to Worthington, Franklin Co., where he worked two years; at the expiration of that time he, iii company with others went to the Choctaw Nation, Indian Ter., and there assisted in the building of the "Spencer Academy;" he remained in the "Nation" and Texas about six years, when he returned to his home in Ohio; here he remained until the spring of 1849, when he started for the then newly discovered gold fields of California, arriving there in September of the same year; while in California, he was engaged in mining and mercantile pursuits, in all of which he was very successful. In the spring of 1855, he returned to Delaware Co., and purchased a large farm, in Radnor Township, upon which he has since resided. He was united in marriage with Harriet Griswold Feb. 20, 1856 ; she was born in Franklin Co., Ohio May 4, 1825 ; her parents, George H. and Mila (Thompson) Griswold, were descendants of two of the first families that settled in Worthington, Franklin Co., Ohio. The Griswolds as well as the Thompsons held a great many positions, civil and military, and their descendants are among the best-known and most respected citizens of Central Ohio. Mr. Lawrence began life as a poor boy, and what he now possesses he attained by close attention to business, combined with honesty and industry; he owns 214 acres of nicely improved land in Radnor Township, and a well-improved and nicely situated property in the city of Delaware. Mr. Lawrence is a man of extended information and correct business habits; he is a stanch Republican. From his union with Miss Griswold there were three children, two of whom are now living-Wirt, horn Oct. 24, 1856, and Mila, July 16; 1861 ; the one deceased was named James, born Oct. 20, 1858, died July 27, 1867 . T. F. LONG, saddler and harness-maker, Radnor. The subject of this sketch was born in Hagerstown, Penn., July 23, 1848 ; is son of John and Margaret (Overshiner) Long, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania and the parents of thirteen children, five of whom are now living; the father was a saddler by trade and the inventor and manufacturer of the celebrated "London Wagon Whip," much used by teamsters years ago; he came with his family to Waldo, Marion Co., Ohio, in 1849 ; he died in 1856. Our subject served an apprenticeship with his father at the saddler's trade ; he received a common-school education ; on the breaking-out of the rebellion, he enlisted in Co. C, 54th Ohio Zouaves: while with this regiment, he participated in the battles of Forts Henry, Donelson and Shiloh; at the expiration of two years, he was discharged on account of disease, and returned to his home in Ohio ; after remaining at home some time, he reenlisted in Co. C, 174th O. V. I, and served with distinction until the close of the war. He was united in marriage with Clara Browning Feb. 4, 1868 ; from this union there were two children Frank and Mattie; Mrs. Long died April 6, 1873. Mr. Long was married to his present wife Aug. 4, 1874; her name at time of marriage was Mrs. William Penry; her husband (the late William Penry) was son of David Penry, Esq., the well known pioneer of Radnor Township. From this second marriage of Mr. Long's there were four children; three are now living-John A., Eva and Arthur; the deceased died in infancy. Mrs. Long was born in the city of Columbus, Ohio, March 24, 1850. Mr. Long is a Democrat, but quite liberal in his views respecting politics and religion. He owns a well-improved farm of 108 acres, all under a good state of cultivation. SAMUEL LEWIS, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Radnor; is the son of John and Sarah (Hughs) Lewis, natives of South Wales ; when 3 years of age, our subject; together with his parents, emigrated to America, first locating in Licking Co., Ohio, making that their home for fifteen years ; when 17 years of age, Samuel apprenticed himself to a man in Columbus, Ohio, to learn the art of plastering ; after serving his time-four years-he and a Mr. Williams formed a partnership in this industry that continued for three years; at the end of his partnership, he carried the business on himself for nine years longer ; at the conclusion of that time, he removed to Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, purchasing a farm near the banks of the Scioto. and directly west of the village of Radnor (then Delhi). Mr. Lewis' father died in 1865; the RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 761 mother came to her death by an .accident during the summer of 1873. Our subject was united in marriage, Dec. 25, 1856, to Miss Mary J. Gallant, daughter of Elisha and-Eleanor (Moore) Gallant ; the wife's father, Deacon Gallant, was killed by a colt kicking him in the head; he remained unconscious for one week before his death, which occurred Nov. 26, 1871. From our subject's union with Miss Gallant, there are five children- S. Ells, born Nov. 28, 1857 ; E. Judson, Dec. 25, 1859 ; E. Minnie, April 5, 1863 ; M. Adel, Jan. 19, 1869 ; Lizzie, Feb. 17, 1873. The oldest, Ella, was married to E. E. Jones Nov. 5, 1878. Mr. Lewis owns 367 acres of well-improved land. Himself and family are members of the Baptist Church. Has held the office of Justice of the Peace, etc. In youth, Mr. Lewis received a good common-school education and since then has improved his time, and at present is among the best informed men in the township. JOHN M. MCILVAIN, farmer; P. O. Delaware; wasborn in Delaware Co , Ohio, June 3,1843, and is the son of Moses and Mercy (Walling) McIlvain; his father was one of the early settlers, coming to Radnor Township, Ohio, at an early day; was a hard-working man and died April 19, 1855. His mother was born in Concord (now Scioto) Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, in 1819, her people, the Wallings, being early settlers. Six children were born to his parents, four of whom are yet living-John M., James D., Keziah B. and Moses, all being single; since the father's death, the three sons have remained with the mother, engaged in farming. They have a nicely improved farm of 104 acres. All are Democrats and members of the Presbyterian Church. All are enthusiastic in public enterprises, and contribute liberally to their support. One of the deceased children was Robert A., who served in the late war, in Co. G, 45th O. V. I.; was in many fierce I engagements and was at last wounded in the fore head by a saber cut and taken prisoner; he was taken from one prison to another, and finally landed in Belle Isle, where he died in December, 1863, a victim to Southern cruelty. James D., as agent, has, for the last four year, been selling agricultural implements. The family is well known and highly respected. MAJ. HENRY C. OLDS, agent C. S, T. Ry. and dealer in coal and lumber, Radnor ; was born in St. Joseph Co., Mich., July 13, 1831 ; he is the son Ezra and Mary (Sipe) Olds ; the father was a native of Vermont, and his mother of the Old Dominion; the father was a soldier in the war of 1812, and the grandfather, John Olds, served his country well in the struggle for liberty in 1776 ; Henry's father removed with his parents to Genesee Co.; N. Y., when he was 15 years of age. It was there that he enlisted in the service of his country in the year 1812 ; he was in a number of battles, and well and faithfully served his country. He was married when about 32 years of age; from this union six children were born, three of whom are living. In 1833, he came to Fairfield Co., Ohio, where he resided until his death, which occurred in 1870 ; he was a well-educated man, sober and industrious, and was a man of much more than ordinary ability ; he never aspired to any political prominence, although very decided in his views. He was at first an Old Line Whig, but followed the rulings of the Republican party after its organization. The mother died in 1876 ; her father came from Virginia to Fairfield Co., Ohio, in 1808, and was one of Fairfield Co.'s earliest pioneers; she was a woman in every way calculated to occupy the position she did in the then new country. The subject of this sketch passed his youth and early manhood on his father's farm, receiving as good an education as the common schools of that early day afforded. When 16 years of age, he enlisted in Co. H, O. V. I, and served with distinction during the Mexican war, under Gen. Scott ; after his return home, he engaged in the carpenter's trade, a business he followed with success until about 1877 ; his services were engaged by the C. & T. Ry. Co., in the capacity of ticket agent at Radnor, Delaware Co., Ohio ; he came to Delaware Co. in 1849. He was in his country's service in the late war, having enlisted in Co. E, 66th O. V. I; went out as a non-commissioned officer ; he was in the battle of Cedar Mountain. Va., where he received a gun-shot wound which so disabled him that he was discharged from the service; he then returned to his home in Ohio after remaining at home for some time, he again entered the service as Major of the 145th O. N. G. `Vas united in marriage with Effie C. Dildine, Dec. 23, 1852 ; she was born in Radnor Township Delaware Co., Ohio, Oct. 22, 1823 ; one child was the result of this union, Clara, who died Sept. 29, 1858. Mr. Olds has held many positions of honor and trust, among which is that of Infirmary Director. Is a Republican, and a member of the M E. Church. Owns nicely improved property near the C. &. T. depot. Mr. Olds is a man of considerable literary ability, some of his productions 762 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: showing that if he was so inclined he might yet rank high as an author. SAMUEL PERRY, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Delaware; was born in the city of Cincinnati, May 15, 1825 ; is the son of Samuel and Mary (Thew) Perry. The father was a native of Virginia, and the mother of New York; they were the parents of two sons and four daughters. The father was at different periods of his life steamboat captain, merchant and brewer ; he purchased a large tract of land in Thompson Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, but always lived in Cincinnati; his death occurred in 1855. The mother survived him 24 years 11 months and 1 day. Our subject resided in Cincinnati until he was 13 years old, then went to Franklin Co., Ind., where he remained until he was 19 years of age ; then returned to his old home in Ohio ; here his marriage ceremony with Eliza Cunningham was celebrated March 9, 1848. From this union there were two children, by name, respectively, Mary and Joseph. The wife's death occurred April 1, 1854. Mr. Perry's second wife is Margaret Thomas, to whom he was married March 27, 1855. The result of this union was four children, three of whom are yet living-Caroline, Elizabeth D. and Samuel. He owns 184 acres of well-improved land; is a Republican in politics. Mr. Perry takes great interest in introducing a better class of stock than has heretofore been in Radnor Township; the stock he prides himself most on being Alderney cattle and Norman and Clydesdale horses. MRS. LOUISA PENRY ; P. O. Radnor. But few men in Radnor Township were better known or more respected than Mr. Walter Penry; he was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, April 16, 1812. His parents, David and Mary (Peugh) Penry, came from Wales to Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, about 1805. He began life as a poor boy, and although never enjoying the best of health, he succeeded by hard work and economy in securing to himself and family a goodly share of this world's goods. For some years previous to his death, he was a confirmed invalid, but bore his pain and confinement with Christian patience ; he died in 1878. His marriage with Miss Louisa Evans (our subject) was celebrated June 14, 1854 ; she was born in Breconshire, Wales, April 25, 1834 ; her parents, Evan and Eliza Evans, came from Wales to the United States in 1851. Our subject's marriage with Mr. Penry bore the fruit of eight children-William B., Thomas G. and Margaret, living; David S., Mary, Walter, Eliza and Evan, deceased. Since Mr. Penry's death, his wife has had sole charge of the large farm (270 acres) she had helped him to obtain; she is a consistent Christian, a kind and loving mother, and a lady of much culture and refinement. WILLIAM W. PENRY, stock-raiser and farmer ; P. O. Radnor. The subject of this biography was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, March 28, 1851 ; is a son of William R. and Elizabeth (Owens) Penry, both natives of Wales, and among the early settlers of Radnor Township ; they were the parents of four children, two of whom are now living. The parents were frugal, industrious people, and succeeded in securing considerable property. The father went to his reward in 1858. His wife survives him, and is at present a resident of the city of Delaware. Our subject's youth and early manhood were spent assisting his mother on the farm. He received a good commonschool education, and, at the age of 17, began for himself. He was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Adolphus and Mary (Curren) Miller, March 9, 1875 ; she was born in Marion Co., Ohio, July 1, 1855. From this union there are two children-Mary E. and Emma A. -Mr. Penry owns 125 acres of nicely improved land. He is a Republican, though liberal in his views. He is a young man of much ability, and enjoys the reputation of being a public-spirited, and highly respected citizen. GEORGE PUGH, stock-raiser and farmer; P. O. Radnor; was born in South Wales Jan. 1, 1818; is the son of James and Grace (Owens) Pugh. The mother died shortly after the birth of our subject. When 19 years of age, young Pugh apprenticed himself' to a blacksmith for a period of four years. At the end of that time having mastered his trade, he emigrated to America, locating in Delaware, Ohio; here, for the first time, Mr. Pugh followed his trade on his own responsibility. He was married, Nov. 14, 1842, to Miss Jane Thomas, daughter of William and Margaret Thomas; by this union there were three children-Elizabeth J., born Feb. 16, 1844 William T., April 16, 1846 ; David J., June 1849, died March 5, 1850 ; in 1850, Mr. Pugh emigrated to California to seek his fortune in the gold fields of that State ; not succeeding in the mining business, he opened a blacksmith-shop and carried on his trade for three years. It was while in California, that Mr. Pugh received the in- RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 763 telligence of his wife's death, which occurred Aug. 20,1851. Having made a nice fortune in California, he returned home in 1853, and again engaged in blacksmithing in Delaware. For six years, he was in partnership with J. J. Davis, and, at the conclusion of their partnership, he continued the business for a number of years. He was married to his second wife, Ellen (Williams) Jones, March 13, 1857. By her first husband, Mr. Pugh's present wife has one child-Mary A. Jones; by her present husband has one child living, and four dead, the one living being named John E., born Feb. 21, 1861 ; her parents, David and Ann (Thomas) Williams, emigrated from Wales to America in 1840. Mr. Pugh has lived in Radnor Township since 1868 ; has seventy-five acres of well-improved land, and valuable town property in Delaware. He and wife are members of the Congregational Church; he is a Republican and an honest and earnest worker for right, whether it be for the interest of his party or of the opposite party. DAVID PENRY, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Prospect. Among the prominent men and early pioneers of Radnor Township is the subject of this biography ; his parents, David and Mary (Peugh) Penry, were natives of South Wales, and were married in 1804 ; from Wales, Mr. and Mrs. Penry emigrated to America during the month of July, 1806 ; after a short stay at Baltimore, they emigrated to the then new Welsh settlement in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, via mountains, their conveyance being a two-horse wagon. Here the beautiful valley of the Scioto suited his fancy, and purchasing 125 acres of land in the north part of the township, he engaged in the business that David now follows. On their arrival, the country we might say was an unbroken wilderness, full of wild beasts and savages, who would not hesitate in destroying these early landmarks of civilization. It was here, Nov. 4, 1806, the subject of this sketch was born, he being the first white male child born in Radnor Township. In his father's family there were thirteen children, seven of whom are yet living. Our subject passed his youthful days on his father's farm, assisting him in clearing and improving the place; he was educated as well as the common schools of that early day afforded. His father departed this life in 1840, his wife following him in 1854. Our subject was united in marriage with Joanna Jones when in his 29th year, Nov. 14, 1833; the wife is the daughter of John P. Jones, a native of Wales; they emigrated from Wales to America in 1818 ; from this union there were ten childrenThomas L., John P., Mary, Hannah J., Amelia D., living ; Reuben and Margaret A., deceased ; the others died in infancy without being named ; those living are all happily married. John P. was in the late war, enlisting in Co. D, 20th O. V. I., under Sherman, with whom he was on that memorable march to the sea; was in the battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Middlebury, Champion Hills, etc.; was severely wounded in the right shoulder and chest at Atlanta, and was confined to the hospital seven weeks. Mr. Penry is a radical Republican in politics, as are also his son and sons-in-law ; he is a member of the Baptist Church; his wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Has held the offices of Township Trustee, Road Supervisor, School Director, etc.; held the commission of Captain in the Light Infantry in the Home Guards until he resigned this position. Mr. Penry is a man of prominence in the county; takes an active part in all laudable county enterprises, and is a, man universally respected and esteemed by his friends and neighbors. He was with the Wyandots, of Upper Sandusky, from his 9th year until he was 23 years old, engaged in herding cattle. JOHN A. PRICE, farmer; P. O. Radnor. The subject of this biography is the second of a family of eleven children of Evan and Margaret (Jones) Price, both natives of Breconshire, Wales; in 1845, the father came, in company with Mr. Robert Powell, to Radnor Township to look for a home for himself and family; not being satisfied with the country, he returned in a few months to his family in Wales, where he remained until 1851, when he again came to Radnor Township, this time bringing his family with him; he has since remained in the township, and now owns a nicely improved farm in the northeastern portion of the township. Our subject was brought up on a farm, receiving a good common-school education ; he remained at home until about 26 years of age. Was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of Rees and Sarah Jones, July 4, 1871 ; she was born in Breconshire, Wales, June 3, 1848 ; from this marriage there were four children, two of whom are now living--Margaret J. and Rees deceased, Sarah A. and an infant ; at the time o' his parents coming to the United States, John A was but 6 years of age, having been born Feb. 11 1845, in Breconsbire, Wales ; he is well and fa vorably known in Radnor Township as one of the 764 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: most industrious and enterprising of its young men; he, has by his own exertions obtained a nicely improved farm of sixty-five acres ; he has for some years past been in the employ of John Powell, who fully appreciates his worth, as does the entire community in which he lives. B. C. ROBERTS, farmer; P. O. Prospect. The subject of this sketch was born Sept. 6, 1848, in Radnor Township ; he is the son of Richard and Jane (Jones) Roberts, of Welsh descent. The father was born April 25, 1806, and departed this life July 25, 1870. The mother was born Dec. 11, 1811, and is yet living, making her home with her son. In the father's family there were eight children, five of whom are yet living; their parents were married in Wales Aug. 7, 1829, and emigrated to this country in 1839 ; he engaged in the mercantile business in Delhi (now Radnor) for a period of eighteen months ; at the expiration of that time, he discontinued his business, bought a farm in the northern part of the township and engaged in the occupation of farming. Young Roberts passed his youth with his father, assisting him when needed, and, at his death, he, in connection with his brother Edward, took the old homestead -a farm of 98 1/2 acres, and continued the business. Our subject was united in marriage to Miss Katie Curtiss, daughter of Charles Curtiss, whose biography appears in this work, the 6th day of March, 1879 ; the fruit of this union is one son, Wayland B., born Dec. 23, 1879. Mr. Roberts is a Republican ; he is a Baptist, while his wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church. He had three brothers in the late war, two of whom laid down their lives in defense of their country. Mr. Roberts' farm is very pleasantly located, near the Scioto River, and is within a short distance of town and railroad ; a schoolhouse is easily reached, being located on the north end of the place, giving him one of the most desirable places in the township. DAVID O. THOMAS, merchant, Radnor; the senior of the firm of Thomas R Jones, was born in Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, May 6, 1856 ; son of David O. and Margaret (Gallant Tbomas. The father was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, March 14, 1813. The mother was born at Radnor, Delaware Co., Ohio, April 25, 1818. The parents were married in America May 17 , 1857 ; in this family there were eight children, six of whom are yet living ; their names, respectively, are Joseph G., born March 1, 1838 ; William J., born July 26, 1840 ; daraaret A., born Sept. 16, 1842 ; Sarah J., born Nov. 26, 1844, died Aug, 23,1849 ; Mary E , born June 2, 1847, Martha E., born Aug. 1, 1850, died July 1, 1851 ; Sarah J., born May 2, 1853, and David O., born May 6, 1856. Joseph served his country well and faithfully in the late war. Our subject received a good common-school education ; in 1877, he commenced business by clerking in a mercantile establishment in Radnor; here he continued clerking for about two years ; soon after he discontinued clerking, he formed a partnership with W. H. Jones, to be known as Thomas & Jones ; this firm commenced business during the spring of 1880, and, although yet in its infancy and controlled by young men, it has the name of doing as good, if not better, trade than any house in town ; this house keeps the best assortment of fancy and staple groceries, dry goods, hats, caps, etc., of any town of its size in Delaware Co. Mr. Thomas is a member of the Democratic party, as was his father before him ; is a young man, of good, steady habits, and has the respect and well wishes of the community. EDWARD R. THOMPSON, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Delaware; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Sept. 4, 1843, and is a son of Edward R. and Eliza (Donalson) Thompson.; the former was a native of Maryland, and the mother of Richland Co., Ohio ; they were the parents of six children ; the father came to Richland Co in a very early day, where he loss his wife; it was in this county that he met our subject's mother, to whom he was married ; in 1838. he came to Delaware Co , Ohio, where he remained until his death in 1879; he was by trade a blacksmith-a business he followed until a middle-aged man, when he engaged in the livery business in the city of Delaware; he was a man of much ability, and secured to himself and family a goodly share of this worlds goods. Edward's youth and early manhood were passed in assisting his father; he received a good common-school education. and, when 20 years of age, came to Radnor township, and engaged in raising and buying stock, and in farming; in his youthful days, he acquired a fondness for horses, and since he has reached his majority, he has owned some of the best horses in the county. He was united in marriage with Adella Loufbourrow Sept. 10, 1868 ; she was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, in 1845 , from this marriage there are two children-Bertha O. and Benjamin F.; Mrs. Thompson departed this life March 18, 1873 ; on the 5th of April, RADNOR TOWNSHIP. - 765 1877, Mr. Thompson was united in marriage with Sue J. Seely; she was born in Monroe Co., N. Y., May 5, 1849 ; by this union there is one childEdward. Mr. Thompson owns 205 acres of as nicely improved land as there is in Radnor Township; he is a Republican. RICHARD B. TOMLEY, farmer and stockraiser; P. O. Radnor; was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, Jan. 24, 1836 ; is the son of William and Susan (Brown) Tomley, both natives of Wales; they were the parents of two sons and two daughters, all of whom lived to reach their majority; in 1840, the parents, together with their family, emigrated to the United States, and almost immediately came to Radnor Township, Delaware Co., Ohio; the father was a farmer-a business he followed both in Wales and this country; the father was a man noted for his piety, honesty and industry; he died Nov. 28, 1857; the mother died Aug. 24, 1869 ; both parents were consistent members of the M. E. Church. The subject passed his youth on his father's farm, and was educated as well as the schools of the country permitted; when about 23 years of age, he began business for himself, although still making his home at his father's. He was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Thomas Oct. 1, 1867; she was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, March 17, 1835 ; her grandfather, Henry Perry, was the first actual white settler in Radnor Township, having come hither in 1803. (In another part or this work a full account of this is given.) From our subject's marriage there is one son--Guy, born March 7, 1869. Mr. Tomley owns 100 acres of nicely improved land ; is a Republican in politics ; has held a number of positions of honor and trust in the township, among which may be mentioned that of Township Trustee; is a man of steady habits, and has the respect and esteem of all his neighbors. THOMAS WATKINS, farmer and stockdealer ; P. O. Radnor ; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Nov. 7, 1843 ; is the son of William and Mary,(Jones) Watkins, both of whom were natives of North Wales. In the year 1820, Mr. Watkins took passage for America, arriving at Philadelphia June 15 of the same year. Miss Mary Jones, who afterward became Mrs. Watkins, together with her parents, took passage on board the same ship Mr. Watkins sailed in. Soon after their arrival, they started, overland, for the then new Welsh settlement, in Delaware Co., Ohio, where they arrived soon after. The father was a carpenter and cabinet-maker by trade, and in that capacity proved a valuable addition to the settlement. He was for a long time employed by the Indians of Upper Sandusky, where miles of unbroken wilderness, full of wild beasts and treacherous Indians, were between him and his home. He was a poor boy when he arrived in this country, having only a $5 gold piece to commence business for himself with ; by frugality and hard labor, he amassed quite a large amount of property. He died May 22, 1871, and was followed by his wife, April 23,1876. They were the parents of eleven children, ten of whom reached their majority; at the present time, seven children are living The subject of this sketch passed his youth and early manhood assisting his father on the farm. He received as good an education as the schools of that early day afforded. He remained with his father until his death. April 11, 1867, he was united in marriage with Charlena Hults, daughter of Raymond and Almira (Andrews) Hults ; she was born in Berkshire Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, July 2, 1843. The father was a native of New York and the mother of Ohio ; they were the parents of four children, two of whom are yet living. The marriage of Thomas Watkins and Cbarlena Hults bore the fruit of seven children, three of whom are now living-William, Raymond and Mary J.; Thomas was the name of one deceased, the others dying in infancy, without being named. Mrs. Watkins is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Watkins owns 170 acres of land, adjoining the villiage of Radnor. Is a radical Republican, and a man of considerable influence among his friends and neighbors. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) |