HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1175 Hugh Grant died shortly afterwards and three months after his death a son, Hugh Grant, was born and this Hugh Grant and his descendants have owned and occupied part of the same land to this day. He is said to have been the first white child born in Jackson Township. Hugh Grant II had a large family, the only surviving daughter being Mrs. Emma Neiswender, now living in North Columbus, Ohio. The late Adam G. Grant, a son, did much for the development of Grove City and vicinity. In 1889 he opened an addition west of the village and named it Grant's Beulah Addition after his daughter and with the cooperation of the Baltimore and Ohio Railway Company, he induced workmen from Columbus to buy homes and use an accommodation to and from their work. This was the beginning of commuter service in and around Columbus, and proved highly successful. In 1898, to meet the increasing traffic between the village and Columbus, he constructed and personally operated and owned the Columbus and Grove City Electric Railway. In 1904 he and the late Emil Kiesewettler organized the Grove City Savings Bank Company, which remains a successful banking institution. During all the above operations, he was a partner with the late Clem Cooke and his son, Albert C. Cooke, in the construction of bridges, viaducts and highways, and many remain in this county as monuments to their industry. In 1874 he married Helen MacGiven at Grove City. Her grandparents, Joseph Miles Gaw and Eliza Gaw, emigrated in 1829 from Woodstock, Virginia, together with their cousins, the Brotherlins, to Ohio, where the Brotherlins remained ; thence to Howard County, near the town of Franklin, Missouri, and settled on a plantation with their slaves, remaining there until 1830. Joseph Miles Gaw was drowned crossing Boneface Creek and his widow, Eliza Gaw, brought their children to Columbus where she opened a private school for girls in Franklinton, which is supposed to be the first private school in this county. The oldest daughter, Mary, married William Miller, a publisher. The second daughter, Catherine, mother of Mrs. A. G. Grant, married 1176 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY William McGiven, a teacher. Thus, both sides of this family have been residents of Franklin County over one hundred years. Adam G. Grant died in 1913 and his wife, Helen MacGiven Grant, died in 1928, leaving a large family, as follows : Jesse R. Grant, lumber dealer, Grove City, Ohio ; Earl C. Grant, president of the Grove City Savings Bank, Columbus, Ohio ; Raymond Grant, lumber dealer, Grove City, Ohio ; Ethel Grant, Grove City, Ohio ; Mrs. Beulah Grant Campbell, Malvern, Arkansas ; Alan G. Grant, attorney for the Southwest District, American Telephone and Telegraph Company, a resident of St. Louis, Missouri ; and Mrs. R. E. Corbett, Columbus, Ohio. Warren E. Langdon is a substantial citizen of Columbus, where he is well known as a certified public accountant. He was born on a farm near Washington Court House, Ohio, August 4, 1881, the son of Frank E. and Alice (House) Langdon. Frank E. Langdon was born on a farm near Cincinnati, Ohio, and his wife was born near Washington Court House. Until 1890 Mr. Langdon engaged in general farming and at that time became interested in the flour milling business. He removed to Riverside, California, in 1912, and operated a large chicken ranch and orange orchard there until the time of his retirement in 1926. Mr. and Mrs. Langdon have two children : Warren E., the subject of this sketch ; and Mrs. Edna Cast, lives at Mecca, California. Warren E. Langdon started his schooling in Fayette County, Ohio. However, he obtained most of his education in the public schools at Wilmington, Clinton County. He spent two years of his high school career in Los Angeles, California, taking a commercial course. In 1899 he entered Wilmington College, Clinton County. In 1901 he entered Nelson Business College, Cincinnati. From 1902 until July, 1904, he was employed as bookkeeper for an oil company in Cincinnati. In 1904 he was employed as an accountant by a public accounting concern in that city. Later he resigned and became associated with the former manager of the firm, who had begun in business for himself. In 1906 Mr. Langdon started as a public accountant on his own account in Columbus. In 1909 he secured the degree of Certified Public Ac- HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1177 countant and has successfully carried on that work to date, also being associated with an able staff of assistants. Their service covers audits, cost and accounting systems, budgets and income tax. Offices are located in the Huntington National Bank Building. Mr. Langdon is a member of the American Institute of Accountants, American Society of Certified Public Accountants, Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, and National Association of Cost Accountants, Columbus Chapter. He is past president and past secretary-treasurer of the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, and for about twenty years was a director of that organization. On June 5, 1907, Mr. Langdon was united in marriage with Miss Ethel Cowgill, the daughter of David and Lydia Cowgill, natives of Ohio. Mr. Cowgill died in 1916. To Mr. and Mrs. Langdon have been born two children : Elmore, a graduate of Asbury College, Wilmore, Kentucky, and Paul, attends West High School, Columbus. Mr. Langdon holds membership in the Highland Avenue Friends Church and is superintendent of the Sunday School. He belongs to the Columbus Athletic Club and Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Lang-don and his family reside near Grove City. A. F. Messerschmidt, proprietor of the Messerschmidt Furniture Company, is a well known and successful business man of Columbus. He was born in this city, June 13, 1893, and is a son of Henry and Christina (Hemslein) Messerschmidt. Henry Messerschmidt was born at Harrisburg, Ohio, and reared in Columbus, where he attended the public schools. He learned the upholstering trade in early life which was his life's occupation. He died in 1918 and is buried at Grove City. He was a Republican and a member of the German Lutheran Church. His wife was born at Grove City and is the daughter of August Hemslein, who was a native of Germany. He came to this country when a young man and served in the Civil War in the Union Army. Mrs. Messerschmidt resides in Columbus. To Henry and Christina (Hemslein) Messerschmidt were born the following children : Clara, married B. C. Osborne, Columbus ; 1178 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY A. F., the subject of this sketch ; Edwin H. served in the World War, was a member of Franklin Post, No. 1, American Legion, a member of the Knights of Pythias, was a thirty-second degree Mason, and a member of the Grotto, died in 1925, and is buried at Grove City; Herbert, was a member of Humboldt Lodge, F. and A. M., and the Grotto, died in 1926, and is buried at Grove City; Hertha, twin sister of Herbert, is the wife of Marion Harper, and they reside in Columbus. A. F. Messerschmidt was reared in Columbus and attended the public schools and the Columbus Business College. While attending school he learned the upholstering trade with his father, who was an expert workman. In 1909 he entered the employ of the Firestone Columbus Buggy & Automobile Company and a year later went with the Packard Automobile Company at Detroit, where he was employed in the upholstering department two years. He then returned to Columbus and worked as a journeyman upholsterer until 1920, when he engaged in the upholstering business in a small way, for himself. At first he had a shop in the rear of his residence at 336 East Moles Street. In 1922 he found it necessary to have larger quarters and he moved to 1365 South Fourth Street, where he manufactured furniture, in addition to his upholstering business. In 1924 the buisness had expanded to the extent that he had to have more space and he moved to the Herr Printing Building, establishing his sales rooms there and his factory in the same building, remaining there until 1928, when he took a temporary location at 200 West Mound Street for his factory to increase space. On January 1, 1929, he moved to his present location at 303 South High Street, where his sales and display rooms occupy the first floor and his factory the second. He also has an additional factory at 15 West Main Street. In addition to upholstering and manufacturing furniture he conducts a complete repair department. He makes a specialty of draperies and decorations for living rooms, and his business extends over a wide scone of territory, including several states. Mr. A. F. Messerschmidt was married at Columbus in 1914 to Miss Martha May Reese, of Columbus. She is a daughter of Herbert and Martha (Lloyd) Reese, the former a native of Frosberg, Maryland, and the latter of Thurman, Ohio, and they now reside in Co- HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1179 lumbus. Mrs. Reese is a daughter of Daniel Lloyd, a native of Wales, who for many years was a minister in the Baptist Church. He lived to be 101 years old. To Mr. and Mrs. Messerschmidt have been born the following children : Henry Herbert, born June 19, 1915, now a student in West High School, Columbus ; Richard, born October 26, 1916, is a student in West High School ; Marie Louise, born April 11, 1919, is a student at West Junior High School ; and Vera Mae, born September 17, 1922, attends John Burrows grade school. All the children were born in Columbus. Mr. Messerschmidt is a member of the Lutheran Church and his wife is a Methodist. He is a member of South Gate Lodge, F. and A. M. ; Knights of Pythias ; the D-O-K-K Lodge, and Mrs. Messerschmidt belongs to the Pythian Sisters, Southernway Chapter Eastern Star, and the Optimists Club of South Gate Lodge of Masons. Herbert D. McCleery.—The McCleery-Carpenter Electrical Company, of which Mr. McCleery is president and general manager, is one of the leading wholesale dealers in the electrical field of Columbus and central Ohio. Herbert D. McCleery was born at Pleasantville, Ohio, March 11, 1894, the son of Martin Benjamin, born near Hooker Station, Ohio, and Josephine (Baichley) McCleery, born in Perry County, Ohio, the former of Scotch-Irish ancestry and the latter of German descent. Martin Benjamin McCleery was reared at Hooker Station and attended the public schools. He spent his early life on a farm and when he was twenty-three years old he was married and settled at Pies santville, where he engaged in the hardware, plumbing and sheet metal business, which he has conducted to the present time. He has taken a prominent part in the local affairs of his home town, having served as mayor of Pleasantville and also as a member of the council. His wife died in 1929 and is buried at Hooker Station. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which Mr. McCleery is also a member. Mr. McCleery is a member of the Masonic Lodge, and Knights of Pythias. His wife was a member of the Eastern Star and Pythian Sisters. 1180 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Martin Benjamin and Josephine (Balchley) McCleery were the parents of the following children: Harry Edwin, a Doctor of Dental Surgery, died of influenza in 1919; Pearl is service manager for the Remington Cash Register Company, Columbus ; Clyde, an employe of the Internal Revenue Department, Washington, District of Columbia ; Edith, married Charles Welker, who is associated with her father in business at Pleasantville ; Ralph, died at the age of four years ; Ray, associated in business with Herbert D. in Columbus; Robert, an accountant and auditor in Cincinnati ; Herbert D., the subject of this sketch; and Paul, associated in business with his father, at Pleasantville. Herbert D. McCleery was reared to manhood in Pleasantville and received his education in the public schools. He worked in his father's store until 1911, when he came to Columbus and was employed by the American Cash Register Company for a few months. He then entered the employ of the Electric Sales Company and continued with them for nine years. In March, 1921, Mr. McCleery and his associates organized and incorporated the McCleery-Carpenter Electrical Company. Upon the organization of the company he became president and general manager, Mr. Carpenter, secretary and treasurer, and H. B. Newman, vice president. They engaged in the electrical supply business and opened a store at 89 North Third Street. In 1925 they removed to 65 East Chestnut Street, their present location. This company does a wholesale electrical fixture and supply business and handle everything in the nature of electrical appliances usually found in a first class place of this kind. Their business is not confined to the city of Columbus but extends throughout central Ohio. They employ about twenty people. Herbert D. McCleery was married at Covington, Kentucky, in 1912 to Miss Eva Bauman, of Pleasantville, Ohio. She is a daughter of Christian and Alice (Smoot) Bauman, both now deceased ; they are buried at Lancaster, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. McCleery have been born the following children: Marjory, born July 31, 1913, a student in North High School ; Richard D., born December 15, 1915, also a student in North High School ; Janet Josephine, born August 23, 1916, attending Crestview grade school ; Betty Jane, born April 16, 1919, attends Clintonville grade school ; Harry Edwin, born May 1, HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1181 1921, also attends Clintonville grade school ; William Frederick, born December 22, 1925, attends Glenmont (temporary) school ; and Herbert Donald, Jr., born August 1, 1927. All of the children were born in Columbus. Mr. McCleery is a Republican and he and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. He is a member of York Lodge 563, Free and Accepted Masons, and Knights of Pythias. Charles E. Justus, proprietor of the Justus Auto Supply Company, located at 51 East Spring Street, is one of the progressive business men of Columbus. He was born at Lancaster, Ohio, August 21, 1880, a son of George B. and Rose (Horney) Justus. George B. Justus was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, and reared to manhood in Cumberland, Maryland. He received a common school education and in early life learned the construction business. Later he became a contractor in railroad and bridge building, and did a great deal of important work in that line in various parts of the country. He retired in 1920 and now lives at Lancaster, Ohio. His wife died in 1920 and is buried at Lancaster. She was a native of Perry County. They were the parents of the following children: Charles E., the subject of this sketch ; Harry, who specializes in the construction of gas producing plants, and resides at Lancaster ; Josephine, lives at Lancaster ; and James, a World War veteran, who served two years in France, is engaged in the automotive business at Zanesville. Charles E. Justus was reared in Lancaster, Ohio, and attended the public schools, graduating from the Lancaster High School in 1899. He then came to Columbus and was employed in the Hocking Valley railway office for two years, when he entered the employ of the Garry Iron & Steel Company, of Cleveland, and acted as their representative in four states for seven years. He then went with the Bigsby Manufacturing Company of Cleveland as sales manager until 1913. At that time he and his associates organized the Justus & Parker Company, of Columbus. Mr. Justus became president and general manager of the corporation. The store was located at 29 1182 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY North Third Street and they dealt exclusively in automobile supplies. Later they moved to 139 East Gay Street. In 1927 Mr. Justus retired from this company and organized a company of his own under the name of the Justus Auto Supply Company, and located at 51 East Spring Street, where he has since been located. He is a wholesale dealer in automobile supplies, carrying a complete line in every particular. His business has been successful from the start and extends over most of the state of Ohio. In 1906 Mr. Justus was married at Lancaster to Ethel Samson, of Newark, Ohio. She is a daughter of Oscar B. and Belle (Clemmons) Samson, the former a native of Newark, and the latter of Granville. They now reside in Columbus. To Mr. and Mrs. Justus have been born the following children : Frances A., born March 7, 1909, was graduated from North High School in 1926, and is now a student at Ohio State University ; Marian Rose, born February 16, 1911, was graduated from North High School in 1928, and is also a student at Ohio State University ; Margaret, born in September, 1914, is a student in North High School ; and Charles Edward, Jr., born November 25, 1927. All of the children were born in Columbus. Mr. Justus is a Democrat and takes an active interest in political affairs. He served on the city council of Columbus from 1920 to 1924, and is now (1930) a candidate for state representative. He is a member of the Columbus B. P. 0. Elks, having been a member of that organization for thirty years, and has been a member of the United Commercial Travelers for twenty-five years. E. E. Nitrauer, vice president of The Herman H. Johnson Company, is one of the widely experienced and successful real estate men of Columbus. He was born at Harpster, Ohio, September 25, 1888, a son of David T. and Ella (Palmer) Nitrauer. David T. Nitrauer was born near Lebanon, Pennsylvania, a son of Daniel Nitrauer, a Civil War veteran. David T. Nitrauer was reared near Lebanon, where he received a common school education, and when twenty-one years of age he came to Ohio and for a number of years was in the employ of the Hocking Valley Railroad. He HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1183 then bought a farm near Upper Sandusky and followed farming until 1905, when he engaged in the milling business, having a flour mill at Upper Sandusky. He operated that until 1922 when he retired and he and his wife now reside at Upper Sandusky. Her father, J. G. Palmer, also served in the Civil War. To David T. and Ella (Palmer) Nitrauer were born the following children: Harry E., lives in Columbus ; Edward Y., Marion, Ohio ; E. E., the subject of this sketch ; Grant C., is a World War veteran, having served in France twenty-six months and took part in a number of major engagements ; May, lives at Findlay, Ohio ; and Margaret, died in infancy. E. E. Nitrauer was reared at Harpster, Ohio, and attended the public schools there. He then attended Ohio Northern University at Ada, after which he was a student at Ohio Wesleyan University for three years. He then began his career as a salesman for Townsend & Townsend Company, wholesale marble and granite works, at Mansfield. He remained with this company about three years when he went to Upper Sandusky where he was associated with his father in the milling business for eight years. He then engaged in the real estate business with the George B. Ricaby Company, of Toledo, in the capacity of salesman, and later as assistant sales manager and finally sales manager. During his connection with this company he was connected with their offices at Akron and Springfield, and had charge of their Buffalo, New York, office until February, 1928. He then came to Columbus in the capacity of sales manager for The Herman H. Johnson Company, and in 1929 became vice president and sales director of the company, which position he now holds. In 1917 Mr. Nitrauer was married at Upper Sandusky to Miss Opal Simpson, of Forest, Ohio. She is a daughter of Edward and Jennie (Morris) Simpson. Edward Simpson was born at Jackson Center, Ohio, and died in 1929. His wife was also born at Jackson Center and now resides at Forest, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Nitrauer were born the following children : David Edwin, born at Upper Sandusky in 1919, and died in 1920 ; Thomas Ellsworth, born in Toledo, August 10, 1921, is a student in Fairwood School, Columbus ; and a daughter died in infancy. Mr. Nitrauer is a Republican and he and Mrs. Nitrauer are members of the Methodist Church. He belongs to the B. P. O. Elks, at 1184 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Upper Sandusky, and Chi Phi fraternity of Ohio Wesleyan University. He is a director of the Drexel Park Realty Company, vice president of the Gibson Park Realty Company, and vice president of the Sunwick Realty Company. He is an enthusiastic dog fancier and his chief recreation is fishing. He lives at 1372 College Avenue, Berwick, on Spring Lakes. His home is known as "Triple Gables." L. J. O'Donnell, of the O'Donnell Insurance Agency, located at 16 East Broad Street, is one of the successful young business men of Columbus. He was born in this city, April 20, 1893, the son of James J. and Mary (Sullivan) O'Donnell. James J. O'Donnell, a native of Canada, died in 1907 and is buried in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Columbus. He was reared in Delaware, Ohio, but spent practically his entire life in Columbus, where he was a mail carrier for more than a quarter of a century. Mr. O'Donnell was a Democrat and a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Columbus. His widow, born at Troy, Ohio, lives in this city. To Mr. and Mrs. O'Donnell the following children were born: Margaret, unmarried, lives at home ; Anna Moore, lives at El Paso, Texas ; Helen, married Charles H. Bancroft, lies at Miami, Florida; Grace, married Patrick J. O'Neal, lives at Miami, Florida ; Bessie, died at the age of twelve years ; R. J., attorney, lives in Columbus ; and L. J., the subject of this sketch. L. J. O'Donnell attended St. Patrick's Parochial School and Aquinas High School, conducted by the Dominican Fathers of Columbus. He has always been interested in the insurance business and for a time was associated with his brother-in-law, C. H. Bancroft. In May, 1913, he established a business for himself in his present location. Mr. O'Donnell handles all forms of insurance and surety bonds and is general agent for some of the largest casualty companies in America. Mr. O'Donnell is a Democrat, a member of St. John's Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus, Council No. 400, of HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1185 which he served as Grand Knight in 1929 and 1930. He also is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and Catholic Order of Foresters. Perry E. Rutherford is one of the dependable business men of Columbus, where he is well known as a funeral director, his establishment being located at 2383 North High Street. Mr. Rutherford was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, May 6, 1887, the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Rutherford, both deceased. They are buried in Union Cemetery, Columbus. Perry E., the subject of this sketch, was their only child. Perry E. Rutherford attended the public schools of Columbus and was graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University School of Business in 1905. He completed a course at the Columbus College of Embalming in 1922 and since 1923 has been located in this city. He purchased the interests of the old Hill Top Undertaking Company in 1924 and at that time the business became known as the P. E. Rutherford Undertaking Company. In the summer of 1925 he moved his business to his present location, 2383 North High Street. It is modern in appointments and equipment and is recognized as one of the finest funeral homes in the city. On February 17, 1909, Mr. Rutherford married Miss Ruth Grove, of Columbus, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward C. Grove. They have three children: Edward, born December 4, 1909, married Miss Cleona Dever, and he is associated in business with his father; Ruth Elizabeth, born March 3, 1916, lives at home; and William P., born March 2, 1923. In politics Mr. Rutherford is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the North Methodist Episcopal Church, and is affiliated with Neo-Acacia Lodge No. 595, Free and Accepted Masons, and was master of this lodge in 1918. He is a charter member of York Chapter Royal Arch Masons and also of Columbus Commandery No. 63, Knights Templar ; Columbus Council ; Aladdin Temple ; Ancient Arabic Nobles A. A. O. N. M. S. ; Excelsior Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; Crestview Lodge, Knights of Pythias ; Deer-foot Tribe of Red Men ; Corinthian Chapter Order of the Eastern 1186 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Star. of which Mrs. Rutherford is also a member. He also belongs to the Co-operative Luncheon Club. Thomas D. Santurello, M. D.—One of the most prominent of the younger physicians and surgeons of Columbus is Doctor Santurello, who has engaged in the practice of his profession in this city since 1925, with offices at 244 East State Street. He was born at Asbury Park, New Jersey, January 5, 1898, the son of Peter and Louise (Musto) Santurello. Peter Santurello was born in Naples, Italy, August 23, 1876, and his wife was born there February 17, 1879. Throughout his life Mr. Santurello has been identified with the hair dressing business and since his arrival in Columbus in 1925 he has proven his ability as an expert in this particular line. He and his wife successfully operate two beauty shops for women in the city, 104I/9 South High Street, and another shop at Gay and High Streets. They employ a large number of operators and have a well established clientele. Mr. and Mrs. Santurello had two children : Thomas D., the subject of this sketch ; and Blanche, who died at the age of four years. Thomas D. Santurello received his early education in the public schools of Columbus and in 1924 received the degree of Bachelor of Science from Ohio State University as well as the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the same institution. He served as an interne at Bethesda Hospital, Zanesville, Ohio, and in 1925 established his present practice in Columbus. On December 25, 1922, Doctor Santurello was married to Miss Angela Corradini, a native of Italy, who came to the United States in 1919. They have two daughters, Emma Louise and Blanche Belle. Doctor Santurello is identified with the Columbus Academy of Medicine, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He is a Republican, a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, and belongs to Eastgate Lodge Free and Accepted Masons, Scioto Consistory, Aladdin Shrine and Achbar Grotto and Alpha Phi Delta fraternity. He is also president of the Dante Club, an Italian organization. He holds a commission as a reserve officer in the Medical HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1187 Corps of the United States army and in this connection is a member of the Reserve Officers Association and National Sojourners. Doctor Santurello and his family live at 715 Bryden Road, Columbus. Herman H. Tischer is an enterprising and progressive business man of Columbus, where he is well known as a manufacturer of picture frames and moldings. He was born in Berlin, Germany, September 8, 1863, and lived there until he was fifteen years of age. Mr. Tischer was educated in his native land and after his arrival in New York in 1878 he was employed by Nownbachelor & Sons, manufacturers of picture frames. He went to Chicago in 1880 and later to Evansville, Indiana, where he was employed by Smith & Butterfield Company for twenty-seven years. He then returned to Chicago and remained in that city until 1919, when he located in Columbus, where he was employed by Lee Roessler, picture frame manufacturer. In 1920 Mr. Tischer established his own business at 214 East State Street. He has been interested in this work for half a century and thoroughly understands the business. On August 26, 1890, Mr. Tischer was united in marriage with Miss Gertrude T. Theime, of Chicago. They have three children : Herman A., associated with the Westinghouse Electric Company, Cincinnati, Ohio; Herbert E., associated with an ink manufacturing company at St. Louis, Missouri ; and Gertrude B., who lives at home. Mr. Tischer lives at 1139 Fair Avenue. Eber T. Tuller, deceased, was a prominent citizen and successful business man of Dublin, where he spent his entire life. He was born there, October 9, 1864, and died April 6, 1912. Throughout his life, Mr. Tuller engaged in the general mercantile business at Dublin. He was a graduate of Kenyon College. Mr. Tuller took an active part in local politics. He was a descendant of Ele W. Tuller. The Tuller store at Dublin has been in the family for three generations. 1188 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY On June 8, 1899, Mr. Tuller was united in marriage with Miss Nelle Davis, mention of whom is made below. They had a child, Ele, who died October 14, 1902, at the age of two years. Nelle (Davis) Tuller was born at Dublin, Franklin County, December 28, 1866, the daughter of Joseph S. and Amanda (Sells) Davis, both deceased. Joseph S. Davis was born in Washington Township, Franklin County, near Dublin, September 20, 1840, and died January 4, 1909. His wife was born in the same township, December 4, 1844, and died October 13, 1914. Both are buried in Dublin Cemetery. She was a direct descendant of Ludwig Sells, who was one of the first settlers and founders of Dublin. Mr. Sells came to Franklin County in 1790 and settled with his family at Dublin. He had lived in Huntington County, Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio by way of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When he reached Pittsburgh he purchased a flat boat and floated down the Ohio River to Portsmouth, Ohio, and from there to the Scioto River and up to Franklinton. In 1802 he built a log cabin. Mr. Sells married Catherine Deardorf. They were the parents of six sons and three daughters : Samuel, John, Benjamin, Peter, William H., George, Mary, Sophia, and Margaret. The town of Dublin was laid out and given by the son, John Sells, in the spring of 1808. He also kept the first tavern there, and at that time it was thought by the settlers that Dublin would be the capital of Ohio. The Sells family was prominent in pioneer days and took an active part in the life of those times. Indians were neighbors to the family, and Ludwig Sells became their counsellor and advisor. He particularly befriended the Indian, Leather Lips, and when the latter was condemned to death it was Mr. Sells who interceded for his life to no avail, although he offered a handsome reward to spare his friend from the penalty of death. The sons of Ludwig Sells became outstanding citizens of Franklin County. Benjamin Sells served as the first county commissioner, being elected to that office in 1804. He was also the first justice of the peace of Washington Township, and held that office for many years. His brother, Peter Sells, was one of the contractors in charge of the building of the Ohio Canal in 1827. In the early history of the HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1189 Ohio Penitentiary it was Peter Sells and his son, Cyrus A. Sells, who were prominently connected with its management. Captain Samuel Davis, paternal grandfather of Nelle (Davis) Tuller, was a soldier during the Revolutionary War, and also served during the War of 1812 with the rank of captain. He was born at Litchfield, Connecticut, in 1763, and became one of Franklin County's prominent pioneer citizens. He died in 1849 and is buried at Dublin. His children were : Asa, Orange, George, Anson, Moses, Beriah, Samuel, James, Elizabeth, and Smith. Captain Davis had settled in Chillicothe, Ohio, but in 1814 he settled on the Scioto River in Norwich Township, Franklin County, where he owned a large tract of land. He and his son Asa were mining for salt and discovered the sulphur springs along the Scioto River in Delaware County. Mrs. Nelle (Davis) Tuller is widely known throughout Franklin County as a teacher, and was identified with the public schools of Dublin for a period of twenty-four years. She retired from the profession in 1929, and was given the honorary title of emeritus professor. Throughout her life Mrs. Tuller has been an active member of the Congregational Church, and has held practically every office in the church. Her home is one of the beauty spots of Franklin County and she is widely known for her hospitality. She has ably succeeded in carrying on the traditions of her esteemed ancestors and is a worthy descendant of both the Sells and Davis families. In 1890 Mrs. Tuller became a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. George E. Bazler and his brother, Frank H. Bazler, are owners of the Bazler Transfer & Storage Company, 310 Dublin Avenue. George E. Bazler was born at Mt. Sterling, Ohio, June 24, 1863, the son of Thomas and Eliza (Blain) Bazler. Thomas Bazler was born in Ross County, Ohio, in 1831. He followed farming throughout his life and was an early settler of Franklin County and the owner of a well improved farm in Jackson Township. He died in 1914 at the age of eighty-three years, and is buried 1190 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY in Mt. Sterling Cemetery. Mr. Bazler held the office of trustee of Darby Township, Pickaway County, for twenty years, and was an active member of the Methodist Church. Eliza (Blair,) Bazler was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, near Mt. Sterling, in 1868, and died at the age of eighty years. She is also buried in Mt. Sterling Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Bazler were born ten children, nine of whom were boys. George E., the subject of this sketch, was the fourth in order of birth. George E. Bazler obtained his education in the district schools of Pickaway County and took a normal school course at Valparaiso, Indiana. He remained on his father's farm until 1886, at which time he was employed as a clerk in a grain elevator office at Morgan Station. Later, he carried mail from Morgan to Harrisburg, and also conducted a livery business for five years. In 1890 Mr. Bazler came to Columbus, where he was employed as a conductor on the first electric street car operated in the city. He was thus employed for two years, then spent two years as a member of the Columbus Fire Department. Since 1895 Mr. Bazler has owned and operated the Bazler Transfer & Storage Company, of which he is president. It is one of the largest transfer companies in the city and handles local and long distance moving, as well as storage. On March 16, 1889, Mr. Bazler was united in marriage with Miss Lacey M. Sifrit, of Harrisburg, Ohio, the daughter of L. W. and Louellen (Wilson) Sifrit, both deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Bazler were born four children : (1) Paul S., born April 13, 1890, division civil engineer with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, lives at Columbus, married Miss Leona McColister, and they have a son, Paul S., Jr. (2) Ralph Lawrence, county farm agent of Morrow County, lives at Mt. Gilead, Ohio, married Miss Bessie McColister, sister of Mrs. Paul S. Bazler, and they have two children: William, born in 1920 ; and Patricia, born in 1927. (3) Janice Louise, married Harry B. Smith, lives at Columbus, and they have a son, Donald Brice, born in 1927. (4) Carroll, a senior in Ohio State University, taking a course in landscape architecture. In athletics he ranks high as a swimmer, having at one time held the championship of the state of Ohio. The two older sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bazler are graduates of Ohio State Uni- HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1191 versity, and their daughter, Mrs. Harry B. Smith, is a graduate of Fairfax University in Virginia. Mr. Bazler is a Republican, a member of the official board of the King Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias. He lives with his family at 355 West Seventh Avenue. Frank H. Bazler, brother of George E. Bazler, is the youngest of the nine sons of Thomas and Eliza Bazler. He is treasurer of The Bazler Transfer and Storage Company. He became connected with the company in 1900. He married Miss Ethel Munson, of Derby, Pickaway County, Ohio. To this union have been born two children : Margaret, who is a graduate of Ohio State University, is now secretary of the Alumni Association, and Edwin, a student in Ohio State University. Mrs. Ethel Munson Bazler died in 1924 and is buried in Mt. Sterling, Ohio. In 1927 Mr. Bazler was married to Miss Minnie Rucker of Pedlars Mills, Virginia. To this union one son has been born. Mr. and Mrs. Bazler reside at 2403 North Fourth Street, Columbus. William L. Bonnell.—Numbered among the progressive young business men of Columbus is William L. Bonnell, who is vice president of the B. & T. Company, dealers in linoleums and floor coverings. He was born at Bucklin, Missouri, March 24, 1895, the son of Mark and Anna (Saucer) Bonnell. Mark Bonnell engaged in the general mercantile business throughout his life. He was born in Indiana in 1849, and spent his early life there. He later went to Missouri, however, and conducted a general mercantile establishment at Mansfield for several years. He died in 1914 and is buried at that place. His wife, also a native of Indiana, died in 1901, at the age of forty-one years, and is buried at Princeton, Kansas. Their children were : Mrs. Mellie Morgan, lives at Albion, 1192 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Michigan ; William L., the subject of this sketch ; and Mrs. Leila Olsen, lives at Albion, Michigan. William L. Bonnell received his education in the public schools of Mansfield, Missouri, and as a young man learned the machinist's trade. In 1921 he came to Columbus and at that time took an active part in the organization of the B. & T. Company with William Thompson. Mr. Bonnell is vice president of the concern, which is located at 135 North Front Street. Their business is wholesale, as well as retail, and extends throughout a large area in Ohio. On September 10, 1915, Mr. Bonnell married Miss Willa Davis, at Springfield, Missouri. They have a son, Walter L., born September 6, 1919. Mr. Bonnell is independent in politics. He holds membership in the First Presbyterian Church, but has no club or lodge affiliations. The family lives at 76 North Princeton Avenue, Columbus. John Zuber, who is identified with the Franklin Loan & Savings Company as secretary, is recognized as one of the substantial citizens of Columbus, where he has lived for many years. He was born in the village of Obergerlafingen, near Solothurn, Switzerland, May 15, 1856, the son of John B. and Elizabeth (Spati) Zuber. John B. Zuber was born in Gunsberg, Switzerland, and his wife was born at Obergerlafingen. He was a farmer and also served as mayor of the village of Obergerlafingen for a period of twenty-five years. He died October 30, 1899, and his wife died September 21, 1879. Both are buried in Kriegstetten, Switzerland. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Zuber : Francis J., born July 25, 1848, died April 26, 1900 ; Marie, born March 24, 1851, died April 3, 1928 ; Regina, born June 3, 1854, died November 13, 1874 ; John, the subject of this sketch ; Lina, born August 22, 1859, lives in Solothurn, Switzerland ; and Theodore, born November 2, 1862, died July 15, 1906. John Zuber received his education in the schools of Switzerland and France. After coming to the United States he attended Otterbein University, at Westerville, Ohio. He held the office of chief HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1193 clerk in the Franklin County treasurer's office for fifteen years, and served as secretary of the Columbus Water Works for three years. His next connection was as secretary for the Columbus Brewing Company for five years, after which he was secretary for the Hoster-Columbus Brewing Company. Mr. Zuber has held his present responsible position with the Franklin Loan & Savings Company for the past thirteen years. On September 10, 1881, Mr. Zuber was united in marriage with Miss Delia F. George, who was born at Antwerp, Ohio, September 14, 1858, the daughter of Henry and Caroline (Bauer) George, natives of Germany. Mr. George died February 8, 1900, and his wife died January 7, 1918. To Mr. and Mrs. Zuber were born seven children, as follows : Leo H., born June 10, 1882, accountant, lives in Columbus; Caroline, born December 10, 1884, a Sister of Charity, Fort Thomas, Kentucky ; John A., born August 13, 1886, contractor, lives in Columbus ; Fred E., born June 29, 1888, bank employe, lives in Columbus ; Arthur T., born May 25, 1890, a priest, lives at Portsmouth, Ohio ; Loretta, born July 17, 1891, lives at Lakewood, Ohio ; and Walter M., born May 2, 1893, accountant, lives in Columbus. Mr. Zuber is a Democrat, a member of the Catholic Church, and is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Catholic Foresters, Columbus Maennerchor, Swiss American Societies, and Olentangy Club. Mr. Zuber's three sons, John A., Fred E., and Walter M., are veterans of the World War. Robert J. Wilson is one of the best known young lawyers of Columbus, where he is engaged in the practice of his profession, with offices at 1082 Parsons Avenue. He was born in this city, February 15, 1903, the son of William R. and Elizabeth (Kasper) Wilson. William R. Wilson was born in Birmingham, England, in 1868. At the age of fourteen years he came to this country with his parents and located in Columbus, where he has been a leading citizen for many years. He has served as a member of the Board of Censorship, secretary of Motion Picture League of America and as deputy county 1194 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY clerk of Franklin County. He has also been superintendent of Columbus city charities. Mr. Wilson now lives retired at 39 Thurman Avenue, Columbus, Ohio. His wife is a native of this city. Their children are: David W., insurance, lives in Columbus ; and Robert J., the subject of this sketch. Robert J. Wilson grew up in Columbus and received his education in the public schools. He was graduated from South High School in 1921, after having spent two years at Hughes High School, Cincinnati, Ohio. He then entered the law offices of John F. Carlisle, Columbus, with whom he spent four years. During this time Mr. Wilson also attended the Y. M. C. A. night school. He was admitted to the Ohio bar in June, 1926, and spent one year in practice with Mr. Carlisle. He has been in his present location since January 1, 1928, and has already established an excellent practice. Mr. Wilson married Miss Sylvia T. Schenz, of Columbus, April 3, 1929, the daughter of Theodore and Minnie (Gillis) Schenz. Mr. Schenz is deceased, and his widow lives in Columbus. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have no children. Politically, Mr. Wilson is a Republican, and he was an unsuccessful candidate for the Ohio Legislature in 1928. He is a member of the South Congregational Church, and belongs to South Gate Lodge No. 692, Free and Accepted Masons, and Scioto Consistory, Thirty-second degree. He resides at 323 Thurman Avenue. Otto C. Wilson, druggist, who has successfully engaged in business in Columbus for the past twenty years, is a native of Ohio. He was born at Raymond, Union County, February 21, 1881, the son of John F. and Dora (Hodge) Wilson. John F. Wilson and his wife were natives of Ohio. Both are deceased. Their children were: Otto C., the subject of this sketch ; and Zelma, married William Hall, lives at Raymond, Ohio. Otto C. Wilson attended the public schools of Raymond, Ohio, and lived there until he was eighteen years of age. He was graduated from Starling Medical College, Columbus, with degree of Doctor of Pharmacy, in 1908, and spent two years as a clerk in the employ of HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1195 a local druggist. He then established his own business at 1090 Parsons Avenue in September, 1910, and has since been recognized as one of the dependable druggists of the city. On July 25, 1906, Mr. Wilson was united in marriage with Miss Rose Lehman, of Columbus, the daughter of Louis and Yetta (Lovenberg) Lehman, both deceased. Mrs. Wilson was born at Richmond, Virginia, May 28, 1881, and was ten years of age when her parents came to live in Columbus. Louis and Yetta Lehman were the parents of six children, as follows : Max, Theodore, and Julius live in Columbus; Rose Wilson, wife of the subject of this sketch ; Fannie, who died in 1929, was the wife of Samuel B. Myers, of Columbus ; and Jean, who died in 1916, was the widow of Joseph J. Gutzwiller, who died in 1914. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have a son, John Edward, born July 6, 1913, now a senior in South High School. Mr. Wilson is a member of Thurman Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to South Gate Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons, of which he is treasurer. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias Pythias and South Side Civic Association. Mr. Wilson and his family live at 791 Thurman Avenue, Columbus. George W. Williams.—Foremost among the prominent pioneer lawyers of Franklin County is George W. Williams, who has engaged in the practice of his profession in Columbus since 1878. He was born at Homer, Licking County, Ohio, May 18, 1855, the son of Edwin and Catherine (Searle) Williams. Edwin Williams was born at Wilkesbarre, Pennsylvania, July 26, 1822. He was a soldier in the Mexican War and served with the rank of captain. He became a successful merchant of Licking County, Ohio, and served as sheriff of that county from 1870 until 1874. He was also a school teacher in early life. Mr. Williams became a noted orator and public speaker and was widely known throughout the section in which he lived. He died in October, 1890. His wife was born July 11, 1827, and died June 26, 1912. They were the parents of the following children : James Searle, deceased ; George W., the subject of this sketch ; Mary, married Dr. Rouse, of Licking County, Ohio ; 1196 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Clara, married William Burner, of Columbus ; Helen D., unmarried, lives on the old homestead in Licking County ; Elizabeth, married Frank Yoakum, of Homer, Ohio ; Benjamin Franklin, deceased ; and John S., who died in infancy. George W. Williams was educated in the schools of Newark, Ohio, and was a student of Denison University. He was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1877 and spent the following year in practice at Homer, Ohio. In 1878 he came to Columbus and was known as the "boy lawyer." He practiced his profession with such important pioneer lawyers of the city as Judge Baldwin, Harrison, Meyers, English, Chauncey Olds, Colonel Holmes, Judge Wood, Benjamin Woodbury, Booth, Keating, George Peters, and Judge Oakey. Mr. Williams served as squire of Clinton Township, now Columbus, being elected to that office about 1900. On October 2, 1879, Mr. Williams was united in marriage with Miss Eva Leona Shoemaker, who was born in the old Shoemaker homestead in Columbus, where she still resides, September 14, 1856. She is the daughter of Christopher and Sarah Ann (Belknap) Shoemaker. Mr. Shoemaker was born in St. Albans Township, Licking County, Ohio, and came to Columbus in 1844. Five years later he purchased the Shoemaker homestead, which is now numbered among the interesting landmarks of the city, located at 1192 Cleveland Avenue. Mr. Shoemaker died March 17, 1891, and is buried in Green-lawn Cemetery, Columbus. His wife was born at Marietta, Ohio, April 13, 1825, and died in 1901. Mrs. Williams was a student of Ohio Wesleyan University. To Mr. and Mrs. George W. Williams were born four children : (1) James Edwin, M. D., a graduate of Starling Medical College, Columbus, in 1907, engaged in the practice of medicine at Denver, Colorado. He married Miss Alenette Austin, of Denver, and they have two children : Edwin Austin, attending the Law School of Denver University ; and Alenette Evelyn. (2) Ruth Ambretta, married Dr. Frank Gardner, physician, lives in Columbus. She is a D. A. R. and a member of Sunflower Society. They have three children : Louisa S., Joan, and Arnold. (3) Florence Leona, who died at the age of twenty-one years. (4) Cyrus Carl, who died at the age of three years. Mr. and Mrs. Williams celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on October 2, 1929. HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1197 Mr. Williams has always been a Democrat in politics. He is a member of Goodale Lodge F'. & A. M. and the Sons of the American Revolution and also of the Mayflower Society. He was one of the organizers of the Columbus & Westerville Railroad. The family homestead, "Sunnyside," is one of the attractive and highly interesting estates in Franklin County. The home was built by Mr. Shoemaker, father of Mrs. Williams, more than eighty years ago, as was previously stated, and was built entirely of walnut and yew-wood, which was brought to Franklin County by Mr. Shoemaker from Licking County. Wooden pegs were used for nails, and the entire structure is of pioneer architecture and design. Leonard M. Rodenfels, law printer, who has successfully engaged in business in Columbus for almost thirty years, is a substantial citizen of the community. He was born in Columbus, July 10, 1885, the son of William and Amelia (Lang) Rodenfels. William Rodenfels was born in Franklin County, September 1, 1858, and died in Columbus in July, 1928. He is buried in St. Joseph's Cemetery. He was the son of Joseph Rodenfels, a native of Germany and prominent pioneer citizen of Franklin County. He owned and operated one of the first grist mills in this section, located at Canal-Winchester on the canal. Later, he lived on a farm in Delaware County, Ohio. Amelia (Lang) Rodenfels was born in Columbus, November 29, 1861, and still lives in this city. Her father, Mathias Lang, a native of Germany and an early settler of Columbus, was a stone contractor. To Mr. and Mrs. William Rodenfels were born four sons : Leonard, the subject of this sketch ; Robert, who lives at Cincinnati, Ohio ; Leo and Walter live in Columbus. Leonard M. Rodenfels received his early education in the parochial schools of Columbus, but left school at the age of thirteen years to learn the printer's trade, which he has followed throughout his life. In 1902 he became employed by F. B. Toothaker, of Columbus, and this association continued until 1920, at which time Mr. Rodenfels acquired Mr. Toothaker's business, which is now located at 374 South Fourth Street, and Mr. Rodenfels is exclusively en- 1198 - HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY gaged in the printing of records and briefs for the State and Federal courts. On September 1, 1909, Mr. Rodenfels was united in marriage with Miss Clara R. Ey, of Columbus, the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Minert) Ey. They are the parents of three children : William Leonard, born September 25, 1910, a graduate of Westerville High School, now attending Ohio State University ; Mary Louise, born October 8, 1914, attends St. Joseph's Academy ; and Paul Frederick, born September 26, 1919. Mr. Rodenfels and his family attend the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The family residence is at 339 East North Broadway. Mr. Rodenfels belongs to the Brookside Country Club and enjoys playing golf. He is fond of flowers and spends his spare time in his flower garden at his home. Frank C. Amos has been engaged in the practice of law at Columbus for almost thirty years. He was born at Sidney, Ohio, May 16, 1877, the son of General J. O. and Nancy (Craig) Amos. J. O. Amos was a native of Belmont County, Ohio, born in 1833. For many years he was prominent in newspaper circles as publisher and editor of a newspaper at Sidney, Ohio. He was also active in politics and served as adjutant general of Ohio. Mr. Amos died in 1918 at the age of eighty-seven years. His wife, born in 1836, died in 1926. Both are buried at Sidney, Ohio. Frank C. Amos attended the public schools of Shelby County and was graduated from Sidney High School. He then entered Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of LL. B. in 1901. Mr. Amos immediately established his practice in Columbus, where he became a member of the Franklin County Bar. He has also been associated with the Hocking Valley Railway as Assistant Attorney since 1910. He has offices at 50 East Broad Street. On December 21, 1918, Mr. Amos was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Boyd, of Columbus, the daughter of James and Sarah A. Boyd. The former is deceased and the latter lives at Harrisburg, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Amos have a daughter, Nancy Ann. HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY - 1199 Politically, Mr. Amos is a Democrat. He is a member of the Bexley Methodist Church, and is affiliated with the Bexley Lodge, A. F. & A. M. and Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He is also a member of the Ohio State University Faculty Club. Mr. Amos and his family live at 2481 Bryden Road, Bexley. Edward Prior.—As president of the Columbus Ice-Supply & Coal Company, Edward Prior is perhaps one of the best known business men of Columbus, where he has spent his entire life. He was born in this city, May 27, 1864, the son of Henry W. and Amelia (Spannagel) Prior. Henry W. Prior was born in Germany in 1835. Early in life he came to the United States and settled at Columbus, where he followed his trade for more than forty years as a carriage maker. He died in 1898 at the age of sixty-four years and is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Columbus. His wife was born at Sugar Grove, Ohio, and died in 1912 at the age of sixty-seven years. She is buried in Green-lawn Cemetery. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Prior : Edward, the subject of this sketch ; Christian, deceased ; and Laura, unmarried, teaches in the Columbus public schools. Edward Prior received his education in the public schools of Columbus, the high school and business college. He then spent twenty-five years in the employ of L. Hoster Sons' Company, one of the largest business firms in the city. Later, he was active in the organization of the Gambrinus Brewing Company and subsequently took over the interests of the Ohio Brewery on High Street, with which he was identified until 1923. At that time Mr. Prior organized the Columbus Ice-Supply & Coal Company, which has developed into one of the city's leading business enterprises. It is located at 769 Frebis Avenue. On March 10, 1886, Mr. Prior was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth M. Engeroff, of Columbus, the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Glock) Engeroff, both now deceased. Elizabeth M. (Engeroff) Prior was born August 15, 1864, and died November 27, 1914. She is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Prior were born