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SEABURY FORD.

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1807. GOVERNOR OF OHIO IN 1849 AND 1850.

With a sense of sadness, in writing of him, one comes to a duty, which should be most impartially done, and yet, the sketch should be portrayed, with all the gentle delicacy of loving hands. Sad, because it requires the drafting of an unfinished work. The writer sees before him a column, resting upon a solid foundation, built of purest material, of artistic proportion, but incomplete. For some mysterious reason, the Great Architect has veiled from human eyes the perfection of his work. Again, abler pens have made record, in other pages, of the prominent events of his short life. It is the unwritten history, the things unrecorded of men, that furnish the true criterion by which they should be judged. Oftentimes, as men are known at home, and, in their private life and daily walk, are estimated, is their real value of character and qualities fixed, with more correct judgment than in the public ways. Eminently true was this of Governor Ford. As his neighbors knew him best, to be a true man in that broader sense of home kindness, and high citizenship, so was he.

He was the third son of John and Easter Ford, and was born at Cheshire, Connecticut, October 15, 1801. Hon. A. G. Riddle, in his admirable sketch for the Williams History, says: "The Fords were of good Scotch extraction, and trace back their pedigree through two or three centuries. His father, John Ford, was a man of large and vigorous mould, and great enterprise. His mother, Easter Cook, was daughter of Elam Cook, and sister of Judge Peter Hitchcock's wife. This branch of the Cook family were from Kent, England, and settled at Plymouth prior to 1640." Earlier than this date, there came, in one of the ships landing at this "Port of the Pilgrims," a widow Ford and her children.

The story of his infant journey of 700 miles, through an almost unbroken wilderness, in 1807, has been often told in sketches of himself, as well as of others. Of his youthful days in school, some things have been related, whether correctly or not. It is the writer's opinion that until sixteen or seventeen years of age, his school facilities were very limited, and that almost his entire life had been spent with his brothers, in clearing up the large tracts of land owned by his father, John Ford, and in ordinary farm labors, a portion of each winter only, being spent in school. At eighteen, he determined upon a collegiate course of study, which in those days was considered very much more of an undertaking than now. At the academy, in company with Rev. D. Witter, under the tuition of David L. Coe, he prepared for college, and in the summer of 1821, bade farewell to associates and home, for an absence of four years, and with his companion, Mr. Witter, started for New Haven, Connecticut. Their "sleeping car" was a one-horse wagon, with baggage piled in the rear, and motive power ahead in shape of a good stout horse. After a journey of many days, the events of which are not recorded, the classic shades of "Old Yale" were reached, successful examinations were passed, and the two were the first students from the new State of Ohio, in that historic college, Mr. Witter entering the sophomore class and Mr. Ford the freshman.

He early took a prominent position in his class and in the college, and was chosen commander of the college forces and presiding officer in " Bully's Hall," which position he retained during his entire collegiate course. The " Bully," so called, was not only commander of the college forces, in all matters of warfare between

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Yale and her ancient enemies, but he was the arbiter or judge, before whom all matters in difference between stuoents were tried, and his decision was held by their laws to be final. Among his classmates, were men who have since adorned the ranks of every profession, some have been prominent as lawyers and statesmen. The southern States were well represented in Yale at that time, and in a " Libellus Memoralis" in possession of the family, are found sentiments written by men who were prominent on the Confederate side of the late civil war. His room-mate, during the college course, was William Rutherford Hayes, of Brattleboro, Vermont, afterwards United States consul at the Barbadoes. He was the uncle of President Hayes (after whom the president was named).

Ford spent the long summer vacations with Hayes at his Vermont home, and a warm friendship existed between them, which the lapse of years, cares, affections and ambitious of after life, served not to abate in the least, as their frequent and voluminous correspondence, up to the date of the death of Mr. Hayes, is witness. Hayes died at Barbadoes only a year prior to the death of Ford. In 1847, twenty-two years after graduation and parting, they arranged to meet again at New Haven. In a letter, dated Barbadoes, June, 6, 2847, Hayes writes to Ford: "We shall, if we meet, no doubt see great changes in each other, produced in the course of 22 years. I feel as young as I did then, and must say, that, so far as this world goes, I have been more prospered than I ever expected to be. I long to see you and yours, and shall feel as proud of your honors, as though they were my own. However others may regard you, to me you are my dear old chum. May God bless and keep you, and may we be permitted, ere long, the great satisfaction of looking upon each other's faces again." The long desired and looked-for meeting took place as arranged, at New Haven, in September, 1847.

Graduating in 1825, he returned to Ohio, and immediately began the study of law, in the office of Samuel W. Phelps, esq., at Painesville. Mr. Phelps died soon afterwards, and Mr. Ford returned to Burton and completed his studies with his uncle, Judge Peter Hitchcock. He was admitted to the bar in 1827, at about the same time that Edward and Benjamin F. Wade began practice, and two or three years preceoing the admission of his cousin, Reuben Hitchcock. Mr. Ford opened an office at Burton, where he always continued it. He paid more especial attention to chancery cases, than to general practice. As a counsellor he was regarded safe and conscientious, always avoiding litigation at the expense of his own pocket, rather than encouraging it. His love of home, early associations and country life, prevented him from yielding to urgent solicitations to form partnerships in larger places, where the practice would be of a different character and more remunerative.

His love of military affairs led him to an active and prominent part in organizing and disciplining the militia. The "general trainings" of those days called together the people of several counties, and they were considered never-to-beforgotten rand affairs. He attained the rank of major-general. Of his public life Mr. Riddle has written:

"He had from the first a relish for politics, and an aptitude and ambition for affairs. His bias, surroundings and training were with the friends of Henry Clay; and although not a mason, he was not of those who deemed it advisable to organize a party in opposition to masonry, and the anti-masons defeated him in his first canvass for the legislature. He was necessarily a Whig, and the party took final form and name in 1834. In 1835 he was elected a representative to the legislature, and, with the exception of a single year, served in that body until 1848 when he was elected governor. He served two or more terms in the senate; was once speaker of the house, and twice of the senate, as the presiding

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officer of that body was then called. [Under the old constitution, representatives were elected yearly, so a campaign had to be fought each season.]

"Few men in Ohio had so long a period of service in the legislature. No one was, on the whole, so useful to the State. Within the limits of a sketch which cannot be passed, one can hardly bring within the intelligent appreciation of the newer generation, the extent and value of his labors in this field. At his entrance upon public life, the State was groaning under an enormous debt for extensive, unfinished and generally unproductive canals. She was without any system of finance, either as to banks or taxation, and her scheme of common schools was hardly rudimentary."

A matter of great interest and importance to her people was, in his judgment, that the State should establish and maintain a banking system that would furnish a uniform currency. He mastered all the known sources of information, and studied with care various reports relating to finance, and was conversant with the rights of the people and of the banks. In 1839, when the bill to prevent the banks from issuing notes of a less denomination than five dollars, was before the legislature, he took the floor against the measure. Extracts from his speech, here given, not only illustrate his comprehensive knowledge, and his power as a debater, but are similar to ideas used in the present day, and show how history is repuated. He said:

"SIR :—I am for bank reform, I am for securing bill-holders, protecting the rights of the people and restricting the issues, and bringing the banks within the limits to which they may go and do business with safety—whenever and where-ever it can be constitutionally done—and in n0 instance would I give power to corporations to work an injury to the people. Take the gentlemen upon their own ground, that there is issued three dollars in bills for every dollar of specie. What are the consequences which must inevitably follow? If the specie be taken out, the banks must curtail their discounts in proportion, because you will not allow them, and they ought not to issue more than they have a sure basis to sustain. You then withdraw from the State, a circulation of one million, five hundred thousand dollars and supply its place with five hundred thousand only. Thus, the capital of the merchant, the mechanic, the manufacturer, and the farmer is reduced two-thirds, and just in proportion as their capital is reduced, so is their business decreased, and in proportion to the destruction of business, so is reduced the demand for laborers. But it is said that this measure is for the benefit of the poor and laboring classes of community. It is not so: when you have destroyed two-thirds of the business done in community, by taking away the capital which sustained it, you throw out of employ so many of the hands engaged upon your canals, in your manufactories, and in every other branch of business, and deprive them of the means of sustaining themselves and families, and thus take the very bread from the mouths of the hungry. Shall we be told that the banks will yield to this restriction, and when their means of doing business are taken away, that they will procure a new supply? From whence and how shall they procure it? Does not every one know that he or they who would have money, must buy it, and must have something to buy it with. It is a well established fact that there are but $800,000,000 in all Europe and America, of which the United States have their full proportion of $80,000,000, all of which is circulating in the hands of individuals, and must of necessity remain there, except the amount heretofore shown to be in the vaults of the banks. Whence can this additional supply of specie be obtained? Not from Europe, because we have not the means of purchasing it. But suppose that our exports should for a time, so far exceed our imports, as to produce a large increase of specie in this country, this would only destroy the just equilibrium n Europe, and some reversion of trade must take place which would again withdraw it, because money,

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as naturally as water, will seek its proper level. I now pass to the other branch of the subject, in which I propose to show, that the legislature has not the constitutional power to pass a bill of this description. If the dangerous doctrine, which we so often hear advanced in this place, that the legislature is omnipotent, and cannot be b0und or controlled by any precedent or law, and that every man shall construe and be bound by the constitution, as he understands it is to prevail, you have no anchor of safety, but are left to the fury of political faction; or if the doctrine, that every man shall construe the constitution as he understands it, be recognized, then you may have for the government of this house, in its duties, seventy-two constitutions of this State, and seventy-two constitutions of the United States, and according to the number of voters at the last election, you may have two hundred and seven thousand constitutions, for the government of the State, and anarchy and confusion uncontrollable would inevitably follow. Sir, this will not do; power must be vested somewhere-there must be a fundamental law for our guide, beyond which we ought not, and cannot pass, without revolution. Have we no such fundamental law? We have. Our ancestors formed the constitution under which we have so long existed as a government. By this instrument, in the 3d article, the judicial power of the United States is vested in the supreme court, and such other courts, as shall, from time to time, be established, and this power is expressly declared to extend to all cases, in law or equity, arising under the constitution.' Thus, then, we find where the constitution itself has placed the power of deciding upon constitutional questions, as a last resort, which decision must be binding and final. The tenth section of the first article of the constitution declares, that no State shall pass any ex post facto law, or laws, impairing the obligation of contracts;' and the same is the language of the constitution of this State. A contract may be defined to be an agreement between two parties able to contract, willing to contract, and having subject-matter ab0ut which they contract. How is the case here? A part of the people of the State (for the stockholders are a part of the people) have made a proposition to the other part of the people, through their agent, the legislature, which proposition was duly considered, accepted, and the agreement entered into, with all its terms, and conditions, fully expressed, in form of a charter. Here, then, are all the ingredients of the contract—the parties, the ability, the subject-matter, and the assent of the parties. What is the consideration? may be asked. I answer, the subject-matter is the consideration; that is, the objects for which the corporation is created. * * * If the banks have been guilty of the enormities, with which they are charged, on the stump, and elsewhere, take the legal course to bring them to justice, and I will go along with the foremost. I stand here as the advocate of the rights of the people who have placed me here; and how can I better sustain their rights, than by defending, against inroads, that constitution which I an bound to support. Sir, the vandal hand of the destructives must be stayed. If these pernicious doctrines are suffered to prevail, the mighty fabric of free government, reared by the sacrifices and wisdom of our forefathers, will crumble into dust, anarchy will succeed to law, and despotism will eventually usurp the place of constitutional liberty.

Of this speech. the Columbus Journal and Register, of January 9, 1839, said, editorially: "Our first page is occupied by the clear and forcible argument of Mr. Ford, against the Small Note bill.' We •deem this speech conclusive of b0th the constitutionality and expediency of the measure. It should be circulated widely by the Whig press of the State, to the end that the people may see and know how they are being humbugged by the pretended Bank reformers."

The greatest known period of financral disaster fell on the American world in 1837, during Mr. Ford's third term as representative, and the financial ruin of the

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State seemed almost inevitable. Under a law which was then called the " Plunder Act," the State had been obliged to be a partner in the building of canals, railroads and turnpikes, with private and public corporations. The southwest portion of the State was checkered by public improvements, that the entire State had been, and was being, taxed to pay for. Geauga county, without a railroad, or canal, or turnpike, or public institution of any kind, within miles of her borders, was paying equal tribute with those who received the direct benefit. In 1840, this act had enabled the manipulators of Locofoco legislatures to incur a debt of over eighteen millions of dollars, with the immediate prospect of its being increased to over twenty-six millions. The interest of the debt alone exceeded the entire revenues of the State, which could be lawfully applied to its payment.

One of the traits of Mr. Ford's character, not generally known, was that of self-depreciation and despondency. He had introduced in the house his bill to repeal the " Plunder Act." On Saturday, January 7, 1840, he writes to an intimate friend: " I am fully sensible of my own weakness and deficiency, and am consequently gloomy and despondent, and am aware, too, that this feeling destroys my self-reliance, and makes me timid and hesitating. While I know that this is my own character, I am sure that the public do not know it.

No one knows how much I suffer from this feeling. My fellow-members suppose I arise to speak with the greates ease, and without fear or hesitation, when, in fact, nothing but force of circumstances could drive me to it." On the following Monday, the bill being on its passage, he made a speech, the report of which is bef0re me, and fills an entire page of the triweekly Ohio State Journal of that date, and of which the Columbus correspondent, in the Cleveland Herald, of January 18, 1840, said: " I wish that every man on the Western Reserve could read this argument. It is clear, analytical, argumentative and convincing, and shows beyond all cavil, the inequality and absurdity of the operation of this law. It shows, too, that Mr. Ford is a treasure to the State in these times. Mr. Ford (although young in years) is an experienced member, talented, industrious, of the most unbending integrity, and possessed of a most determined and unflinching spirit of opposition to all demagogues and their measures. His enemies fear him as much as they 'also respect his talents."

Parts of this speech, so widely published, have been copied here, giving briefly his Views upon so important a measure, and, in his own clear and forcible language, leaving the impress upon the page of history, more perfect than any one can write. His words were as follows:

"What, when some large portions of the State have been benefitted and enriched by the construction of public works, wholly at the expense of the State, then say to the other portions, it you will still pay taxes for the interest of the costs on these works, and contribute one-half or two-thirds out of your own pockets for the construction of your works, the State will then contribute the other one-third or one-half, according to the kind of work in which you wish to engage! Such is the equal and exact justice proposed by this law, which it is now sought to repeal. Sir, the law itself bears up0n its very face, the impress of inequality, injustice, and wickedness, in too glaring a manner to be mistaken. It needs only an examination of the map which I hold in my hand, to show that its operation has been most unequal and worked the most flagrant injustice. A small portion of territory in the southwestern section of your State, is almost entirely covereo with turnpikes, railroads, and canals, in which the State is a partner under this law. Yes, it has even become proverhial that farmers are becoming alarmed, lest there should not be any lands left for them to cultivate. And here it is, that the beauties of this boasted law of equality and justice are most clearly developed. That portion of

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the State which you had contributed by your public works to enrich, has only done what others of our people would have done under similar circumstances. The uniform tendency of the law is to place additional burdens upon those who have before paid heavy taxes, to add additional wealth to those whom your works had before made rich; or, in other words, to make the poor poorer, and the rich richer. * * * As I have before said, the period has arrived when absolute necessity compels us to enter into a system of retrenchment with regard to our public expenditures, and this law is one of the most fruitful sources of expenditure, and that of the most extravagant kind, and its repeal is loudly called for from all parts of the State.

The prospective debt, if we continue in our present course, is $26,995,350. Let us then look back to the debt of $18,431,900, which we must have hanging over us without any new State works, or new subscriptions under the plunder act, and see if we are in a situation to increase that debt. The interest is $1,105,914 per year, and to be paid semi-annually. The means for the payment of this interest must be provided. How is it to be done? Can you pay it by borrowing money, thereby adding to the principal to pay the interest? So far as we are now informed, even this miserable resort has failed us. Your commissioners, during the past season, have traversed not only the United States, but England, and perhaps Europe, to procure the fund required, but they have failed, most signally failed in every attempt. What then is the next and last resort. It must be raised by taxation. How shall the installment that becomes due on the first day of July next, be met? Near $300,000 must be paid for that purpose; the plighted faith of the State must be sustained; I repeat it, the faith of the State must be sustained. I ask, has any member devised a plan by which this payment can be met, unless it be raised by taxation? Sir, the prospect is gloomy. In this town, where, last year, there were twenty thousand barrels of pork put up, and sent off on the canal, there will not, in all probability, be three thousand this year; equally so throughout the State. Look along the whole_ length of your canals—see the storehouses, where, last year, at this time, there were hundreds of thousands of bushels of wheat waiting for the opening of navigation; now, you may safely say there is scarcely thousands. Why? Because there are no purchasers, for the want of means to purchase. ErN another and an alarming difficulty meets us here. In what funds shall it be paid? It must be specie. Brokers and money-shavers are also carrying out specie for the purpose of selling it at a premium. Add to this the amount necessary to pay the interest on our public debt, and it will drain every dollar of specie from the State. Let this process continue till the first of July next, and it is a matter of doubt whether there can be obtained convertible funds in the State, sufficient to pay the installment then due. Who, from present appearances, can predict any better times? A debt hanging over the nation to foreign countries, exqusiye of mercantile debts, on State bonds, canal and railroads, and city corporation bonds, to the amount of $200,000,000—drawing away, for the payment of interest, the very life-blood of the whole country. Grievous taxation, with the prospect of increasing burdens, stares us in the face. Near $400,000 is now due to contractors and laborers on our public works, and who are now suffering for the want of what the State justly owes them for their labor, and not a dollar in hand to cancel the debt. The anticipated reverse has fallen upon, and affected alike, the finances and policy of the State—and our extended business, deranged our money matters, reduced the value of our lands, our labor, and the products of our agriculture, which must still further decrease, as thousands of hands are thrown out of employ on the public works, and become producers instead of consumers. Sir, the times and circumstances demand that every one should come firmly to the work, discarding all selfish motives, and, meeting the

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crisis with a patriotic desire to protect the interests of the State, promptly adopt such measures as will relieve the people, or at least prevent the increase of the burdens under which they are laboring."

He had acquired a fund of information, relating to public affairs, equaled by few men of his time. His public standing is well expressed in the words of another: "In the house he was recognized as one of the most valuable members, and was placed on the most important committees. He shrank from no labor; avoided no task. He seldom addressed the house, and then only on thorough preparation and upon some matter of business legislation, and, as be invariably had some much-needed information, he was always listened to with interest and close attention."

The Whigs having obtained possession of the State government, the objects of legislation, for which Mr. Ford spent his time, strength and energies, from 1837 to 1842, were accomplished, namely: "A new system of banking upon secure foundations was constructed, a new scheme of taxation created, and the common schools were placed on an enlightened and liberal, basis. This gave to the State the form and structure of policy, under which she began and continued to prosper, and from which she has never departed. And it is no more than just to Mr. Ford, and no injustice to others, to say that Ohio is more indebted to him than to any other one man, for the fashioning and adoption of these wise measures. The discussions which they gave rise to, contain no abler or more forcible productions than the speeches delivered by him while they were under discussion—speeches widely read, justly admired, and which largely contributed to the success of this policy with the people."

In 1838, he was the rival of Joshua R. Giddings, for the Whig nomination for congress, and failed by one or two votes only. In 1844, he was returned to the house. It was during this year that the memorable presidential contest between Henry Clay, of Kentucky, and James K. Polk, of Tennessee, occurred. Mr. Ford was a conspicuous supporter of Clay. He entered into the fight with a full determination to carry Ohio for his favorite leader, He spoke day and night for many weeks, in all portions of the State. Although the Whigs were defeated in the general election, Ohio was carried for Clay.

In 1845 he was again sent to the senate from his old district, and was chosen speaker of that body. In the session of 1847, he took a prominent part in remodelling the tax laws of the state, "so as to levy taxes upon all property in the state according to its true value, and the same as to bank capital." The papers of that date speak in the highest commendatory terms of his efforts in this work. Mr. Ford had twice been widely named as a suitable candidate for the chief executive office of Ohio. The time was approaching when a successor to Governor Bebb was to be chosen, and the eyes of the Whigs were at once turned to him as the man to lead them in the campaign of 1848. The Whig convention of February, 1848, recognized his great popularity and strength, and placed him at the head of their ticket. That was the fatal year of General Taylor, of the Buffalo convention, the secession of the Whigs of the Reserve, and the formation of the Free-soil party. It was mainly by the efforts of these Whigs that Mr. Ford was nominated. They controlled the new party, so far as to prevent the nomination of a Free-soil candidate for governor. They knew and trusted General Ford.

Among those brought into notice by the Free-soil movement, was the Hon. Albert G. Riddle, then a young lawyer of recognized talent, who had studied law under General Ford, and who felt as devoted to him and his cause as he could have done were he a son. His influence among the leaders of the party of his adoption, secured to Mr. Ford a strong support from its ranks ; and when the result of the election disclosed the small majority by which the Whigs had pre-

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wailed, it could almost with certainty be said, that an absence of Mr. Riddle's efforts would have left the majority on the other side. The canvass of votes in the legislature was an exciting affair, and has been often referred to in the public press and by public speakers, during the late Tilden vs. Hayes presidential contest ; but, as it is a matter of rocord in so many other places, further mention of it will be omitted here.

Of Governor Ford's inaugural address the Cleveland Herald, of January 20, 1849, in an editorial, says: "The subject matter of the inaugural is in excellent taste, and every word falls into its proper place, like a block of granite, from the builder's bands. General Seabury Ford is a true representative of that glorious race of pioneers, under the influence of whose sound judgment, profound sagacity and moral excellence the Buckeye State—this young Hercules of the west— has reached its present commanding position. He sets up no claim to empty, superfluous accomplishments, but in the more solid virtues of prudence, foresight, integrity, and strong practical common sense, he is pre-eminent. We commend the address to the careful attention of our readers as a model in every essential particular."

Mr. Riddle says of him in that connection: "His inaugural and annual messages are among the clearest and ablest of the Ohio State papers. His discharge of the duties of Governor was among the most useful and honorable to the State, of all the able men who have filled that position. The old constitution left but a narrow field to the executive; every part of it was fully improved for the public good."

In 1849 the cholera made its appearance, in a malignant form, at the State capital, and amid the consternation and flight which ensued, Governor Ford went to the capital and devoted himself, with all his individual faculties and executive powers, to the arrest of the disease in the city, and the numerous and crowded public institutions of the State. On this subject, the writer quotes the following from an article written by Hon. Charles B. Flood, formerly editor of the Ohio Statesman (and a bitter opponent of General Ford), and published ins recent number of the Cincinnati Enquirer:

"Seabury Ford made many friends. He was a man of sound sense. While Governor, the cholera broke out in the Ohio penitentiary. The governor was absent. 'l'o be used in extraordinary cases, he had left a small number of blank pardons with Mr. Galloway, the secretary of State. The scene in the penitentiary and in the city was fearful. Galloway could not withstand the piteous appeals for liberty, and he soon exhausted the pardons and wrote to Ford for more. This the governor refused, but wrote Mr. Galloway that he would visit Columbus immediately. He did so; went to the prison, examined the hospital and patients, and assembled the convicts and told them that no pardons would be issued while the cholera was in the prison; that to those who behaved well nursed the sick and aided in cleaning the prison, pardons on the recommenda ' tion of the officers would be freely granted when the danger was passed. Even those who had homes to go to, could not be half as well nursed or attended as in the prison hospital, and that the appearance of a single man in a neighborhood who was known to have been in prison and pardoned because of the cholera, would create alarm, and perhaps produce the much dreaded disease. The men were satisfied, The effect in the city was good, and the heroism and good sense of Governor Ford were much commended. He left office with the kind feelings and good will of the entire community, as a sensible and honest governor. It is pleasant thus to speak words of deserved praise of one who was a life-long political opponent."

Upon resignation of Thomas Corwin of his seat in the United States senate, to take a place in President Fillmore's cabinet, Mr. Ford at once tendered the

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position to Thomas Ewing, between whom and himself a warm friendship existed.

Soon after the expiration of his term of office in 1851, he was stricken down with paralysis, a dread disease. The.physician's art could not restore life and vigor to the palsied frame, but possessed of an iron constitution and resolute will, he fought it by sheer force, for four years before he yielded and passed over to the "silent majority," May 8, 1855. His grave is in the little cemetery east of the village. During that four years he realized that death had fastened his hold upon him, and he sought to malcè amends to his estate, by personal attention to its affairs. The great State of Ohio at that time, paid its chief magistrate eighteen hundred dollars a year and "no perquisetes." His entire public service was comparatively unremunerative, and he found that in a pecuniary sense his life had been thrown away. His advice to his oldest son--Seabury—in a letter written while he was Governor, is in the following words: * * * " Avoid politics and public life, until by a careful and industrious attention to a legitimate and honorable calling, you have accumulated a fortune sufficiently large to entitle you to the respect and confidence of your fellow-men, as a business man and a man of integrity, and sufficiently large, to render you thoroughly and entirely independent of any offieial salary."

Attractive in person and manners, with intellectual forces well trained, it is not strange that he was a great favorite with the girls, but among them all,

Harriet Cook—was the one favored with especial attention. She was a daughter of John Cook, esq., was born August 20, 1807, and raised with many early' advantages. She was scarcely fifteen, when the young student left for college, was just budding into womanhood, with much promise of rapid development and early maturity. He carried with him the young girl's fancy, and though in the years of his absence she matured to a tall, slender woman of much beauty and grace, and was much sought after, her maiden ear remained closed until he should return to speak words he had not hinted, but which when his course was ended, he was not slow in uttering. In 1824, Seabury came home during his junior vacation. He was to visit Warren, Austinburg, Harpesfield, and elsewhere, and he invited Harriet to accompany him. He was near twenty then, and she seventeen. The consent of her mother obtained, and each well mounted, with a small portmanteau attached to the saddle, in which were the needed changes and finery, they rode away. What a preparation was this for visiting the aristocracy in Warren, by this young girl, hereafter to be the wife of the Chief Executive of the State. What a magnificent wardrobe must have been hers, all packed in a small valise? It was early September, when, full of spirits, those two pushed their horses down through Parkman and the big, dense woods of Southington, reaching Warren the first night, where they remained two days. Harriet stopped at R. P. Spalding's, while Seabury staid at Parkman's. They remained two nights, and had two parties made for, and much attention paid to, them. •

From Warren they rode to Austinburg, forty miles or more, in a single day, and remained a week, the guests of the Austins. The eldest of the Austin sons was a great stage proprietor, and one day a four-horse coach bore them to the lake, and afterwards to other points. At the conclusion of their visit, they again took horse for Burton hill, riding through the fearful swamps of Windsor. While trailing along in a quaggy wallow of mud, the saddle of the young maiden turned, and to save herself from a worse mishap, she sprang from it, alighting upon her feet. The gallantry of her companion was put to the test of pulling her from the mire, readjusting and aiding her to remount. This was done with grace by him, and acknowledged by her with many blushes. At the same time the incident afforded both parties much amusement, as they rode. After this excursion. Seabury returned to Yale, and wrote a minute account of the trip, but said noth-

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ing ere he went. There was no need, though seventeen, and mature of her age —an age when girls are eagerly sought for, her heart taught her what, and whom, she might wait for, and trust.

They were married September to, 1828, and there is abundant evidence that their married life was a happy one. Mrs. Ford had a loyal admiration, as well as true love, for her husband. He always to her, remained the one man to look up to, and be ambitious for. She was always ready to do all in her power to aid his advancement, and sat at his side, when chief magistrate, with just womanly pride. She still survives him, a widow, cherishing his memory with a true and christian loyalty. She lives at the old family mansion, in Burton, surrounded by loving friends and children, patiently awaiting the message, which, as she firmly believes, will reunite her to her beloved husband. There are elements in his home life and character which ought not to be overlooked. Ambitious, and fond of public life, as he was, yet, at home was given full play for all the best traits of his character. Both he and Mrs. Ford were of Puritan stock, and at their home were kept alive and vigorous many of the lovely virtues, charities, truths and wisdoms coming from that ancestry. Mr. Ford was much admired by his home friends and neighbors for his kindness of heart, his obliging manners, and his readiness to aid any needing it, and especially to give his personal assistance in caring for the sick and suffering.

The words of Hon. A G. Riddle who knew him well, and who was intimately associated with him during much of his public life, seem fitting tribute with which to close this record:

"Seabury Ford owed nothing to accident or luck. He achieved nothing which he did not earn twice over, and nothing ever came to him that was not overdue. He made no proclamation, or assertion of himself, and was no seeker of high places. He began, and, with intelligent labor, patiently constructed every step of his way in open light, from his own door, through years of hard, faithful and valuable public service, to the head of a great State, at the age of forty-seven; and except his uncle, the late Chief Justice -litchcock, whose career his own resembled, few men have rendered more intrinsically valuable services to the State, with so small a return of emolument and fame.

"The monument to his memory is the solid, enduring, useful work of his own hand so unostentatiously placed in the working machinery and structure of the State, as scarcely to be identified, and so long ago as not to be within the memory of the younger generation. In person he was about five feet eight, deep chested and heavy shouldered. He had a remarkably well-formed head, brow and eyes, with a striking manly face; in manners unaffected and simple, a man of wide and varied reading, especially in early American history, familiar with all current politics, well versed in the studies of finance and political economy. The characteristics of his mind were clearness and force; rather slow, but with a power to grasp and fix a subject, until its utmost secret and quality were mastered. His mind was logical, and he came to be a capital good speaker. Master of his subject, master of a terse style, and nervous language. Speaking from intense conviction, without a suspicion of insincerity, he never failed to command attention and respect, and never left a subject without enlightening the minds of his audience. Of warm temperament, his passions, though ardent, usually lay powerless under his will. A sincere, uncalculating friend, a good deal of a partisan in politics, he was a most sincere and devout hater; a hater of all things mean, sinister, or indirect ; a hater of all manner of shams, with which he classed the. Democracy of his day. With them it was bitter, utter, interminable war. He was reared an orthodox Congregationalist, and his religious sentiments partook of the sincerity of his nature and character, finding expression in life and action, rather than profession and creed.

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"At fifty-three, his death was untimely ; just at the maturity of his faculties, at a time when he could be most useful, when the State was full of his name, when he had rounded a most complete and honorable career—second to none in value to the public—when he might have successfully looked to higher fields, in the broader arena of the nation, he was stricken down, leaving his sons in their unformed character and lives, and a country, which needed his head and hand.

" It seemed like the economy that shatters a strong, well-formed column, just as it is completed, leaving a public edifice unsupported that required its strength."

The children were five sons—

William R.—the eldest son, was born July 5, 1829. He is remembered as being a noble-hearted youth. In mind, as in person and manner, much like his father, he was greatly beloved by his associates. He died April 19, 1847.

Samuel M.—second son, born December 6, 1831, died march 9, 1835.

Seabury C.—third son, born September 6, 1834. A boy of vim, used to love a four-horse team of boys and the Jehu crack of the whip, and likes a good horse now. The "old family mansion" stands next door to the store so long occupied by George Boughton. He had no children, and after the father's death, interested himself in the rearing of these boys. Seabury had a fair academical opportunity for schooling. His tendencies were to business, and he was bred to it by his uncle George, soon becoming a partner with him in trade. September 19, 1859, he was married to Mary A. Gilmore. In 1864 they removed to Cleveland, where he engaged in the wholesale boot and shoe business, with A. E. Adams, under the name of Adams & Ford. After a time they manufactured goods for their trade. Mr. Ford attends to the buying, and to the financial part of the business. From a small beginning, with untiring energy and care, he has seen their trade increase until their house is one of the largest in the city. His wife, an intelligent and social lady, always light of heart in the home circle, wasted, under the winds of this lake shore region, and passed away September 5, 1867. His second marriage, with Miss M. Estella Barney, occurred June 13, 1878.

George Henry—fourth son, born March To, 1842. [See sketch.]

Robert Neil—the youngest son, born May 7, 1846, was a hearty boy, and when he came to study, went down to it with a will that would have placed him in the front rank as a scholar. He was in the classes of the Eclectic, at Hiram, in August, 1864 and remained two terms. Going from there the following April, he entered the preparatory department of the Western Reserve College, in Hudson, and afterwards was in the college class nearly a year. The older brother, Seabury, going into business in Cleveland, gave opportunity for him to be with his uncle Boughton in business. The college course was abandoned. With his brother, George H., he entered into partnership with George Boughton, in the mercantile business, to 1864, in which they continued until 1872. This year a banking business was commenced under the name of Boughton, Ford & Co., and he became the working member of the firm. Under his care it has grown to cover an extensive field. His genial face smiles on the patrons, who always find him at the counter ready for deposit or loan. Of solid body and cool head, his ambitions will lead towards wealth. In music he is an enthusiast. Work pertaining to it is recreation to him. His marriage with Maly A. Tuttle occurred September 16, 1867, and with his mother, they still keep up the warm glow of hospitality in the old Ford home.

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GEORGE HENRY FORD.

This gentleman enjoys the rare good fortune, as it is thought, of being usually spoken of by all three of his names. The first and second he derives from, his uncles, his senior partners. The third he inherited from a man to whom his native State is as much, or more indebted, than to any other of her public men. He is third son of the late Governor Seabury and Harriet Ford, born at Burton, Ohio, March 10, 1842, and now (1879), thirty-seven years old.

Of such parentage, and reared in a town quite as New Englandish, as any in the section of that name, deriving from his parents, as he did, a vigorous and healthy frame, and a vigorous mind; he grew through a vigorous healthy child and boyhood, to a vigorous and healthy manhood, bodily, mentally and morally. I am not certain but that the rather strait orthodoxy of his native atmosphere, may not, in his case, have produced a natural recoil, resulting in views, if not original with him, certainly not taught in the religious pale in which he was reared.

Of the course of his early education, as, indeed, of his whole life, the scanty data before me, do not permit me to speak. That it was largely the district school of Burton, is undoubtedly true. That his facilities were ample, is shown by the fact that he entered Western Reserve College at sixteen, where he graduated in 1862, at twenty years of age. I have not a scrap of his college course.

During the late war, he served several m0nths as a volunteer in the 85th Ohio volunteer infantry. On his return from the war, he became a law student in the office of Messrs. Hitchcock & Estep, of Cleveland, where he remained for a yet;, and then became one of the present firm of Boughton, Ford & Co., of Burton, where he has since resided, He afterward finished his legal studies and was admitted to the bar. He was elected a justice of the peace in 1864, and re-electeo in 1867 and '70.

In 1871 he was elected by the Republicans to the old seat of his father, in the Ohio house of representatives, and re-elected in 1873. In the house he was at once recognized as one of the most thoughtful, practical, useful and modest members of that body, seemingly unambitious, and rather avoiding occasions which would bring him into favorable notice, such as his talents would naturally command. Among the measures advocated by him, was a bill which he introduced, for the creation of the Ohio State University. This proposed to consolidate the three weak State institutions, and produce one large, strong? liberally endowed university. The scheme attracted the favorable notice of liberal-minded educators, and had it been adopted, would have placed Ohio by the side of Michigan, in this respect. Mr. Ford has always been an enlightened and most pronounced Republican, liberal, but not tolerant of those who would work miracles by other than the true faith.

He has usually been on the committees of his county, senatorial, and congressional committees, has been several times at their respective heads, was a delegate in the national convention which nominated President Hayes, and made himself felt in that body. Frank and outspoken, he has left no doubt as to his estimate of the president's course and policy. He has been more liberally endowed by nature, than the majority of his fellows. Finely formed, of manly symmetry, a large, well developed head, unusually good eyes, large and lustrous, and well featured, he has manners and address, especially wining, when he cares to please. He possesses a singularly, well balanced mind, of large capacity, and well developed faculties. Quick in perception, able and logical, a good speaker, and he puts himself well on paper when he will. He never cares to be showy. He is a man to be liked, and is largely, personally popular, though he never seems to think it worth his while to care much how he

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he stands. This very indifference may be one of the sources of the general liking for him. It often wins with women when active 'court fails. Of course, he has the full measure of the Ford personal integrity.

There is something a little puzzling, not to say exasperating, in Mr. Ford's career, to many of his friends. With his ability, personal popularity, the prestige of his name, and having opportunities, he appears quite indiffent to the openings to a man's ambition, and instead of reaching forth his hand and grasping what seems within his easy reach, he leaves them to others. This younger generation of men may be wiser, and set less value upon the ordinary objects of pursuit than their fathers. They may have less faith, less self-sacrifice, do not care to pay the price in hard work and self-devotion, which alone win, and are quite content to have it thought that they could if they would. He is still quite a young man, not yet at the maturity of his powers, stands well at the bar, in the legislative halls, is becoming widely known and trusted in the higher business circles. Is still laying, extending and solidifying his foundation; has a long, useful and, if he wishes it, a conspicuous career before him. That it will be full of individual honor and integrity, is already assured.

In 1866, Mr. Ford was united in wedlock with Corinne E., daughter, and only child, of Carlos and Electa Williams, of Burton. On her mother's side, the descendent of a race, the women of which, are distinguished for their beauty of person, and possessing the qualities which go to form excellence and perfection in the feminine character. This favored woman fully sustains their high character in all those respects. Of this fortunate union five children have been born —Seabury W., Helen R., Louis Jay, Carl Boughton, and George H. Seabury W. died October 10, 1868, and George H. died August 4, 1879. Their cottage home, in the village of Burton, is one of rare felicity; was it less blessed, its master might be more actively ambitious.

A. G. R.

HENRY HINE FORD,

The youngest son of John and Easter Ford, was born February 27, 1814. His first recollection dates back to the story of being rocked in a cradle made out of a hollow log, in the old red house that stands southeast of his present home. It is said that he was so good natured as to go to sleep without rocking, and that trait of good feeling is strong at the age of 65. Neri Wright—afterwards Judge—taught school in a log house just over the line in Claridon, north of the brook, and his tact kept this boy advancing in reading, spelling and arithmetic three winters. Wright was justice of the peace, and left the school in charge of his step-daughter, Adiresta, one day, while he went to hold court at his house. Some big boys asked to go out. Full of mischief, they beset a flock of geese, and caught a white gander. One climbed the logs and stood on the roof by the big mud and stick chimney, while the others handed up the gander, which was dropped down the chimney, flapping the soot and ashes with his wings through the room, and, "squawling" loudly terrifying the teacher and child-. ren, who thought a ghost had come. His schooling was finished in the academy under the instruction of Reuben Hitchcock and Mr. Witter.

At the age of 14, a singular accident occured, and even in the far away distance of years it brings the tinge of sadness. It was so strange an event it should be recited here. In the road south of the house, with a smooth-bore rifle, loaded with a loose ball, he stood and aimed at a turkey in the garden east, shooting its

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head off. The ball struck a frozen stump and glanced to the left, on a quarter angle, and passed through two half-inch pannels of a wagon box, grazing the felloe of the wheel, and struck Heman Truman, a boy 13 years old, in the abdomen, He died from the effects of the wound. It was a great sorrow to the young Ford,

Manifesting more interest in steers than books, at the age of 6, he was put in charge of his father's farm, 160 acres, and also looked after.the Griffith farm of 60 acres, over the river, where Albert Tuttle now lives. Of this, 50 acres were cleared. Here they kept about twenty head of cattle, and, in the winter mornings, he would get up, put a string of sleigh-bells on his horse, get into the saddle, and ride before light, awaking the sleeping neighbors with the rattling bells, and sometimes would blow a horn to awaken the people along the way; feeding his cattle, and returning "from over the river," to breakfast at home, at six o'clock. A cheery nature, like his, made fun of the snow and storm, He had no need of a soap-stone for his feet, nor a white bear robe to protect him from the sharp frosts of 1830. This early care kept him, and after he was 12 years old, he had but little schooling, except in winter. In the division of his father's property, lot 66 fell to him, and he went on and cleared 1oo acres, on the farm now occupied by Leander Taylor. The frame house, with its two rooms, on the side hill, where Thomas Brown now lives, was of more than ordinary interest to him, and a mile by the wood-paths was very short, when, regii- larly, of a Sunday night, he had jumped the logs by the way, and appeared at the kitchen door, and the latch was lifted by a keen-eyed maiden, of 20 years, who smiled when he came. Pretty and charming, with a face expressive of refinement, she had a power over the rolicksome' ways of this youth, but the heartiness of his laugh would get beyond her bounds sometimes; nor has his ludicrous storying been quite controlled since. The visiting was not always done by two in this kitchen, while the old people slept. Frederick, a brother of the girl, used to amuse, as well as annoy, this young couple, by sitting up, and talking about steers, until 12 o'clock, when she was obliged to politely request Henry to go, and not stay later, However, these interruptions did not break the attraction, and a wedding took place, at the residence of Rev. Dexter Witter, February 2, 1836. Miss Sarah Welton, youngest daughter of Johnson F, Welton, was the bride. Charles Warren, with two horses and a sleigh, accompanied them to Warren, and to Cleveland, on their wedding tour. Having lived together two years, :they were prepared to enjoy the pleasures of a journey, and appreciate, in company with each other, the ways of travel, and in the spring of 1838, started on a real wedding visit, accompanied by Mrs. Welton, then 70 years of age, and Esquire Merriam's oldest daughter, Mary, afterwards Mrs. Thrasher. Going by Pittsburgh, they crossed the Alleghenies to Harrisburg, and, by Easton, went on to New York, and Waterbury, Connecticut; being three weeks on the way, going 600 miles,. Their conveyance was a light two-horse lumber wagon, with seats resting on suspended poles for springs, The team and wagon were sold, east, and they returned by stage, to Albany, taking the first railroad in the United States from Albany to Schenectady. The cars, built like stage coaches, ran on flat bar rails, spiked to stringers, and carried twelve persons each. From there, by canal, they came to Buffalo; thence, by lake, to Fairport, and home, a trip of nine days.

He was greatly interested in raising fine cattle. The first Durham bull brought into Burton was bought by him and "Amy" Beard, in 1835, of Bushnell, of Hartford, Trumbull county. He weighed 2,200 pounds. From Blish's herd, of Mentor, the Devons were added, and the choice red cattle so famous in Burton were bred. The great bull, "Zack," was bought by him and Peter Hitchcock, afterwards sold and went to Minnesota. Andrus Durand, an old

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friend of Ford's living in that State, went a hundred miles to see the animal, Oxen from this stock sold for $225 and $275 a pair, and cows from $60 to $90 each.

He was elected lieutenant of the first company of independent light infantry in the fall of 1833, and continued until elected captain in 1835, at the age of 21. This company, uniformed with red coats and white pants, was very showy, and their drill was superior. He continued captain about six years. In 1844 he was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of the first light infantry regiment, first brigade, and twenty-first division Ohio volunteer militia. He kept account of men subject to military duty, and reported to the adjutant-general at Columbus up to 1850, He was then made captain of a squad of light artillery, and a cannon awakened the people of the county, on public occasions, for years up to 1856. In the winter of 1857-8, being the highest officer in command, he received orders from Secretary Floyd, of treasonable memory, to deliver up the arms in the county. The cannon was shipped to New York, and went into the hands of the Confederates in their preparation for rebellion. At the outbreak of the war in 1861, being familiar with the tactics, he began drilling men in Newbury, Chardon, Middlefield and Burton, finally organizing a company known by their uniform as "Yellow jackets," This company was in three drill contests, and won the prize each time. The prize sword, presented by the people of Chardon, to the company, was accepted from the hand of judge Milton Canfield, and the company made it a gift to Colonel Ford, and it is now in his possession. It is a bright reminder of those war-preparing drills. In August, 1863, he was elected col0nel of the d Ohio militia, and that fall they went into camp on Willson avenue, in Cleveland, eight days. His list of volunteers, and men from Burton, is valuable in making up the history. All through the war he was active in raising volunteers, and paid largely to save the town from draft, and in genuine patriotism, he gave of his money and time, all through those terrible years.

A worker for the public good, he, with Thomas M. Bayard, of Chagrin Falls, secured the carrying of the mail, and, a passenger hack, ran three times a week from Cleveland, via Burton and Kinsman, to the Pennsylvania line. In 1864, with the aid of Peter Hitchcock and S, C. Ford, a daily mail was established from Chardon to Burton and Garrettsville, and he, with George Boughton, put on the hack and teams from Burton, to connect with passenger trains.

In 1871 the town was half destroyed by fire, in the business part. With a spirit determined to re-build, he subscribed $3,000, being one-eighth of the stock for the entire block of 7 stores. In 1872 a partnership was formed with George Boughton, G. H, and R. N. Ford, in the banking business, which is still continued.

When the Painesville & Youngstown railroad was being built, competition along the line for depots caused anxiety, lest the road, being laid so far east of Burton, should pass by and leave the town without a depot. In the storms of that fall of 1873, he mustered men and teams; they hauled all the timber for a building, and some ties, and laid the first rails of the track in Burton. When the building was finished he paid $1,000, and cleared it from debt—leasing for 99 years the large spring of George Adams, to fill the tank for the benefit of the company. When the track was laid, his promise to President Wick was, that he would have a hack there to meet the first train, or would be there himself with a cart and four oxen. This rapid work, pushed through in sixty days, in much bad weather, told upon his health. In 1875 the Carlton grist-mill was burned, J. S. Cook being owner at the time. Joining with George Boughton, they furnished about $8,000 in money, and what is now known as the "Center mill," was built on the old site.

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He has been a religious member of the Masonic fraternity for many years, and one of the first in paying to the Congregational church, all his life, which, with his wife, he joined in 1854—liberal, however, in his theology. He was one of the founders of the Odd Fellows lodge in Burton. A man friendly to everybody, kind in thought to the poor; a good neighbor, with his social wife, makes the John Ford homestead, which he has always occupied, a genial mansion to all visitors. It has been the home of eight orphan children, who look back to it with memories of kindness, They adopted a daughter, now Mrs. Edward Johnson, of Middlefield, They had only one child, a daughter, Annette Virena, born December 3, 1836, and died February r0, 1838,

He looks after the farm, but is growing old, and, in his own words, "Neither holds nor drives," and knows the first of that old proverb of the plough: "He that would thrive." As a public benefactor in the use of time and means for the benefit of his town, he stands pre-eminent—has always aided those who needed help, when called upon. Of him the Hon. A. G, Riddle, of Washington, D. C., a life-long friend, writes:

On quite my first witnessing a regimental muster at Burton, the old fashioned "general trainin," of that early trme I was struck by a small squad of boys, from 7 to 10 or 11 years of age; in uniform, armed with neatly painted w0oden guns, and to my militia eye quite perfect in equipment and drill, At their head was a fine spirited lad of the age of the seniors, in person, bearing and action, every inch a soldier and leader. I followed them about for two or three hours, and while they were at ease approached and addressed the captain, whom I found very accessible and pleasant. On inquiry I found he was Captain H. H. Ford of light infantry. Several years later, on a similar occasion, and when he was 17 or 18, I saw him again, then, with a bass drum in the drum corps, in a rifleman's uniform, and as I think, belonging to Capt. Ira Hoadley's company. Of this last I am less certain, In the spring of 1838, I began the study of law under the late Governor Ford, and boarded at the Brooks', opposite Deacon Cook's, just below the old homestead, and became acquainted with Cheshire Street. Col. Ford was then married, a thriving and driving young farmer, Charles Warren, a nephew of Mrs. Ford, worked with him that summer, and he and I quite at once became warmly attached young men, friends of the callow and plastic years of 21 and 22, I then, for the first time, became acquainted with Mr. Ford, an acquaintance that grew into a confirmed friendship, to continue unwaveringly to the end. For, among these years, when in Ohio, he has been the standard and type of excellence used by me in the estimate of other men I know, but few to be thus compared with him, of some I have said, "he is a Col. Henry Ford, kind of a man," and esteem this the best praise I can bestow. To me he always seemed the frankest and most transparent, natured of men, A man about whom no questions were ever asked, who never had to give references, who never had to contradict or explain things, who never had to take affidavits to support any statement of his own. In short, a man through and through every hair and fiber, a man one does not have to study to find out, nor to learn to like, but to be liked and trusted offhand and forever.

Nature was kind to him in the uncommon gift of rare, common sense, and in good measure. He might have enlarged its scope by more study. It could hardly have been more vigorous or more useful, a strong, tenacious, healthy natured man, who took hold of life with an honest, vigorous grasp, wrought and moulded things to good purposes, and applied them to good uses, who had an abiding faith in God, human nature and in doing right. A sagacious man, with enterprise and courage, kindly, just and generous. It has seemed to me that he is a type of men never too numerous, who are growing scarce and are

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passing away. The lien of my years are apt to look with distrust on those of the new generation—men of new thought, new views and new methods. They will, doubtless, grow, develope and meet all the requirements of their time and in their way. The cities, the railroads and the new enterprises have robbed Geauga county of some of the choicest of them. Of those who remain, how many will reach the standard, fill the place and do the work of Col. H. H. Ford?"

1811, DOCTOR ERASTUS GOODWIN.

This gentleman was born in the town of New Hartford, Connecticut, about the year 1786, He only had the benefit of a common school education, and he studied medicine with his brother-in-law, Dr. Thomas Brinsmade, and emigrated to Burton, Geauga county, Ohio, as we think, about the year 1811, for the practice of his profession. At this time the country was almost an unbroken wilderness, and he was compelled to thread his way through the wilderness, only guided by marked trees, and, as he said in after years, when night overtook him, he would often be compelled to dismount from his horse, lay down on the ground, with his saddle-bags under his head, and thus await the morning. During the earlier years of his practice, his ride was very extensive, being frequently called as far north as Painesville, and as far south as Warren, and about the same distance east and west, The worst enemy to encounter in pioneer life was sickness. It was much worse in Ohio than it has since been upon our western prairies, Ohio was covered with a heavy growth of timber, and as it was cut down, and the sun let in onto the ground, and the soil upturned and exposed, it caused about the worst kind of malaria for the generation of diseases. Almost everybody was sick, and must have a physician, and the result was that Dr. Goodwin was compelled to visit almost every house and hamlet. He was compelled thus to endure a great amount of hardship and fatigue, and this told fearfully upon his vital powers in after life, during the last few years of which, though not so old as to have caused any very great amount of mental decay, yet his mind was much impaired. In one of these long rides, he was one night lost in the woods west of Punderson's, but worked out to that hosprtable house, rested, and went from there home in the morning.

At the breaking out of the war of 1812, there was a great call for volunteers, and a regiment was raised and started out about the month of August, 1812. It was commanded (as we believe) by Colonel Hayes ; the brigade was commanded by Gen. Simon Perkins, and all under the command of General Wadsworth.

Of this regiment, Dr, Peter Allen, of Kinsman, Ohio, was the surgeon, and Dr. Goodwin, surgeon's mate. The regiment marched up into the vicinity of Sandusky, and was there for a time, but did not join Harrison's army. Dr. Goodwin was in the vicinity of Sandusky for some time, located at Judge Abbott's, which was at the old county seat of Huron county, a few miles above the mouth of Huron river, near where Milan now stands, He was there at the time of Hull's surrender of Detroit. After that surrender, some of Hull's soldiers, released on parole, were sent down the lake in open boats, and they landed at the mouth of Huron river, Some of the settlers there saw them landing, and mistook them for hostile Indians. The news that a large body of Indians had landed at the mouth of the Huron, was speedily communicated to the settlement at Abbott's, and they all prepared to flee. Dr. Goodwin was at the time lying sick of fever, and unable to go, Lyman Farwell came to him in the evening, just as the inhabitants were about leaving, and asked him what

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they should do with him. The doctor told him they would have to leave him, and let the Indians have him. He remained there that night, and all the next day alone—the only human being in the settlement. Towards evening, he heard the cows lowing, and the calves bleating, and he got up and crawled out to turn the cows in with their calves, when a man came along and told him of the mistake, and soon after, the citizens returned. At another time, he was riding across the prairie in the vicinity of Sandusky, and a shot was fired by an Indian, from the tall grass, and the bullet whistled past his ear. He turned his horse, and rode to the spot from where the firing came, but the Indian had gone.

It was while in the vicinity of Sandusky that he became acquainted with his wife. She was a Miss Dotia Gilbert, the daughter of Judge Gilbert, who had emigrated to Newburgh, in Cuyahoga, county, from Vermont. Miss Gilbert was teaching school at the time, and was the first female who ever taught school in the town of Milan. They were married at Esquire Ford's, in Burton. She died on the i 1th of November, 1846, and he afterwards married, as his second wife, Miss Lucy Wilder, of Painesville, and wrth her he was living at the time of his death. Dr. Goodwin had not the advantages for a medical education that are now afforded to young men, but he had what, at that time, was considered a good medical library, and always to0k some medical journal, by which he was enabled to keep abreast of the times, in medical knowledge. He was always considered one of the first physicians of the country, and was sent for, far and near, in critical cases, both as attending physician and counsel to other physicians. He had been practicing over thirty years before he ever lost a case of parturition, puerperal fever. One of the ridiculous stories t0ld of those marvelous days, is that a colored man died, was a good subject, and the doctors pickled his body in Edson's pond.

Dr, Goodwin had six children by his first wife;—

Sherman Goodwin—who studied medicine and practiced in Burton, until 1848, when his health failed, and being threatened with consumption, moved with his family to Victoria, Texas, where he has since lived, practicing his profession,

In the office, as this goes to print, is a .gentleman, W. H. Chapman, of Troy, who was at the post-mortem examination of Truman Allen, of Montville, in 1845, and then, a medical student. He says that Sherman Goodwin was regimental surgeon of the Geauga militia, and, in that capacity, conducted the autopsy. Allen's body was taken to Jonathan Brooks' harness shop, where the post-mortem revealed an ugly wound in the heart, The cut was one and a half inches deep. The excited crowd had to be kept from the building by a strong guard. At the preliminary trial, helo in the church, which was packed with spectators, the excitement was intense. At the autopsy, Dr, Goodwin acquitted himself to the satisfaction of all parties.

Erastus L. Goodwin,-the second son, now resides in Cleveland.

Homer Goodwin and Lewis H. Goodwin,—third —third and fourth sons, both of whom, after going through college, studied law, are practicing together in Sandusky,

His eldest daughter, Marry, married Porter Peters, and lived in Wabash, Indiana, where she died in the summer of 1875.

Margaret,—his youngest daughter, married E, S. Ross, and is now living at Wabash, Indiana.

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1814. ASAHEL BARNES,

Sold his property in East Haven, Connecticut, fitted out a wagon, often called a stage, when on the road, hitched to it three dark gray horses, and on the 1fith of September, 1814, set out for the west. Being first to start from that place, near New Haven, some of the wise people, who had not enterprise to go themselves, called him crazy.

The maiden name of his wife was Patty Ives, The children, Eliza, 10 years old; Julia, 8, and Elias, 6, walked much of the way, while little Charley, 3 years old, sat in the wagon, and oftentimes sang the hours away. Henry was a baby in his mother's arms. On the mountains the quakers helped their team, and when offered pay, said "Nay; when thou seest thy brother in like condition, help thou him." At Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, they found Judge Kirtland with his wife, who was sick of consumption. In the house opposite where they stopped she died that night. Mr. and Mrs. Barnes went to render the Judge all the aid they could, and brought the sad news back to Poland and Burton. From Warren, it was woods, and the teams mired. A pair of stags, from a cabin in the woods, pulled the wagon out, and the family staid with the owner, a Mr. Walden, at the cabin, that night. Coming on to Young's, six miles from Burton, the next day, they put up, and on the day following were met by a team, from Burton, to help them through. Ephriam Cook and his wife came to meet them, and Julia rode behind her "Aunt Sukey " on horseback; one of the hardest rides of her life. They visited with "Uncle Ephriam's" people a while, then moved into John Ford's old house, for the winter, and finally settled, in the spring, on the Dr. Miner place, lot 55, towards the West branch ano Oak Hill. It was also called the Noyes place—where T, Brown now lives. The log house had part of a floor laid in it, and no chimney, so they cooked by a fire, on stones, and the smoke went out at the hole cut for a chimney, until after plowing and planting, when there was time to finish the house, They set out flowers, and soon had bloom on the hillside. Julia remembers hearing that Dr. John Miner, who was killed at Chester, often said he hoped to die suddenly.

It has often been told, that the children saw so few white people in the west, that when a stranger came, they hid away under the bed. Samuel Hughes and Mr. Atwater called at the open door one morning, on their arrival from the east, and began looking under the bed. Mrs. Barnes understood their motions, saying with a laugh, as she met them, you won't find my children unoer the bed.

Mr, Utley and Mr. Riddle are mentioned as men of fine appearance, and very intelligent, with whom the family formed friendships. Esquire Riddle worked in harvesting for Mr. Barnes. Grists went to mill those days, with two of the girls, holding the ends of the bags, and walking beside the horse to balance them, 5 miles in the woods to Punderson's. So they would go with wool cardings to "Hauchet's" in Parkman. Harriet and Meritta Cook often went with them.

The little boy, Charles, shelled some rye in the field one day, and swallowed a beard, choking badly. Everything was done for his relief, but it was only for a time. He coughed, and a year afterwards;in August he died. He would say, "Don't feel bad, I'd rather die now. If I lived to be a man, I would have to die then."

Other children were born here—Addine, Caroline, Charles and Lucius.

Mrs. Barnes was a woman of fine, social and intellectual qualities, and the children's love was great for her. In the sickly season of 1823, she fell ill, and died September rfith, and was carried to rest by the river, east 0f their house.

Henry and Caroline went to live with Eliza, who had married Anson Ford,

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whose house was always a home to the children. After a time Mr. Barnes married again. He did the first shop work in coopering, in town, in the ground floor, side hill part of his house. Elias was a manly youth. He went with Esquire Hickox as clerk, to Coshocton, where the canal job was being worked. He died there. Henry became a millwright, finally moved west, and was lost on a steamer he was taking to St. Paul, being blown up on Lake Peoria, Illinois. He was much loved by all his friends. He was a fine mechanic, and obtained a patent on tools for mortising and tenons on timber, in 1838,

Lucius fell from a building in Munson, and was killed.

Charles was a captain on the Ohio river boats, and went into the war of 1861. He was, at one time, a colonel of the famous Pennsylvania Bucktails, a regiment of athletic men, and was breveted brigadier-general for gallant service in the eastern campaigns. His body carries scars from the fields of battle. A brave soldier and a generous hearted man, he resides with his family in Pittsburgh,

Julia married Langdon Chase, of Concord, and moved to Painesville. She now lives with her daughter, Rosalie, in Hastings, Minnesota, and has, at the age of 73, furnished valuable written memoranda for history,

Adaline married Merwin Hoadley, and they live in Garden Grove, Decatur county, Iowa.

Caroline married Andrus Durand, a blacksmith in Burton, for some time, but who finally moved to Minnesota, where she survives him. He died in 1864, Mr. Barnes died at Mottville, St. Joseph county, Indiana, March 29, 1851,

1816. ROBERT EDSON

Secured the endorsement of his townsmen, before setting out for the west, and, in accordance with custom, had the signature of the justice, to be understood, in effect, that there were no debts or judgments against him, of the selectmen, that there were no charges, and of the inn-keeper, on fair, and gentlemanly conduct. It reads as follows:

"We the subscribers—having been acquainted with the bearer, Robert Edson; for several years past, do certify, that he has served a regular apprenticeship at the blacksmith business, and acquired a handsome knowledge of his profession; that he has hitherto supported a character fair for honesty and integrity, and is a young man of regular and correct habits.

"We therefore recommend him to the public, as a young man who merits public patronage.

"Rockingham, May 11th, 1816,

"STATE OF VERMONT, }

WINDHAM COUNTY.

"Joseph Weed, Justice of Peace

"Daniel Kellogg, Justices of Peace,

"Mansell, Brent, Selectman.

"Assa Blair, Inn Keeper."

This strong recommend is given here, as an interesting document of the "old-fashioned" days, when such a paper was good capital to a young man.

He was born at Bellows Falls, Vermont, in the year 1794, and learned his trade in Chester village. On arriving in Burton, he started a blacksmith shop —the year 1816—and went at the work of building a grist-mill, in company with James Gilmore. He afterwards had a saw-mill, and also a distillery. A man of great executive ability, and of untiring energy, he could carry on the different branches at the same time, looking out for the feed in the hopper, then

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crossing the race to the saw-mill, "set a log," and go on to the distillery, across the road, then to the shop—set a shoe, or "pint nails,"—then again to the mill, attending all at once, and for himself. The first blacksmith sh0p was under the first mill, and the family lived up stairs, over the mill. With the new mill, built about 1835, was used the ox-tread power, when the water was low. The mills and the shop, worked by the enterprise of this active man, were blessings to the people of that early day.

He married Polly Umberfield, The first house was a log one, north of the east and west road, and near the bank above the creek. A large frame house, built later, stands by the spring, south, and is now occupied by Caleb Johnson's family, here his family of four daughters was raised,

Flora A,—who married William Ballard, and, afterwards Lewis A. Brown, now living in Chicago,

Emily P.—married John R. Briggs, of Iowa, is a widow now, and resides in Washington, D, C.

Augusta—married Martin Paulson, ano survives him, living in Chicago. Leonora A.—married Dr.

Truman W. Miller, a surgeon during the war, and now conducting an extensive practice in Chicago.

Mr. Edson was an uncommon governor of his family, never harsh, but in kindness having obedience. His parents died when he was 11 years old, leaving him to struggle on alone in the world. He came to be a reader of books, a clear-minded thinker, and debater of public questions in a friendly way, with those who came to his mill. In politics a Democrat, he is spoken of by Ellison Sperry, then a strong abolitionist, with this kindly feeling and memory, as a man who was too much of a gentleman to ever get angry when discussing with his opponents,

Watching the advance westward, in 1840 he set out for Chicago. With broad views, he went north of the city, and obtained an eighty-acre farm, about one mile north of what is now Lincoln park. His first house was on the corner of Clark and Superior streets, being almost the only house between that point and the bridge. Now, the city extends three miles beyond. He spent much of his time on the farm, and kept there a blacksmith shop, with tools, while he lived. When a young man, he made, with skill, a long hunting rifle, mounted with silver figures of deer, etc. It went, as a trusty companion, to Chicago, but was lost in the great fire, which swept down some of his buildings. In 1854 the family moved to Chicago, where Mrs. Edson died March 17, 1857.

Exercising a clear business judgment, he bought and sold real estate, and did something in the loaning of money. At one time he had property where the court house stands. His purchases and sales amounted to millions, and were conducted with profit.

He died in Chicago, May 21, 1870, and was noticed by the press "As a man of marked and peculiar character, of great energy and resolution, and came to be called eminently a' peacemaker, a man of remarkably clear and just judgment." He became, without doubt, the wealthiest man that ever migrated from Burton, his estate being valued at more than half a million dollars. Thus, the youth, starting out with a simple paper of character, gained a great capital, and the respect of men.

A more complete sketch, from another pen, was hoped for, but it did not arrive in time.

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1818 ABEL CRAMTON

Came from Guilford, Connecticut, to Batavia, Genessee county, New York, in the year 18ir. The spring of 1818 found him with pack on his back wending his way on foot to Batavia, Ohio, now Middlefield, where he took up eighty acres of land, at $1.25 per acre. His location was near where Harvey Robb now lives, and afterwards in Burton, east of Erastus Johnson's, on lot 70.

In raising his log house, he had three fingers cut off. In the fall he returned to "York State," and sent his wife and four children, with their gooos, through in a lumber wagon, while he stayed and worked all winter, to pay the teamsters for moving the family to Middlefield. The spring of 1819 he came on the "Walk in the Water," the first steamer on Lake Erie, on her first trip, and was four days from Black Rock to Fairport. The next spring he made 400 pounds maple sugar, which was sent to Buffalo, and sold for three cents per pound, bringing $12, $10 of which was paid for a barrel of salt. Nails were worth 25 cents per pound, and wheat 25 cents per bushel.

Mr. Cramton was a joiner by trade, and also an undertaker, and made coffins for one dollar each. In fastening the lids, he nailed them down, as screws could not be had. In building his second log house, he took a novel way to get mud for the chinks. He shoveled up the ground, penned it around, threw on water, and turning in his hogs, gave them shelled corn, The hogs rooted the mud, and mixed it. He raised hogs to work.

He donated 45 days' work in building the Congregational church, and his family came often to church with cart and oxen. The children were Truman, Marcus, Garry, Abel, Fanny, and Eunice Ann. Marcus still lives across the river. Garry, always an active business man, resides in the village.

In the academy, southeast of the square, Priest Humphrey preached Garry's funeral sermon, about 1825. The story was told by one Blrnn, to annoy a girl living in Madison, Lake county, that an ugly black horse had kicked and killed Cramton. It was not contradicted, and the sermon was preached. Garry came home, after a while, and his mother sprang up, saying, "Garry, are you alive?" When traveling in Mississippi, with a menagerie, the end of the lion cage was smashed in, by the wagon upsetting. Garry sent on the proprietor, for the lioness' cage, and he stood in front of the broken cage, with a black whip, and kept the lion in until the other cage came. He rode the horses to water one night, and when in the deep gulley, he heard a panther scream overhead. The horses were frightened, and went out quick, escaping the beast after it yelled. Garry says there were but six frame houses when he came here (1818), and of all the men who were of age at that time, only Colonel Stephen Ford is now living in Burton. Teachers were paid six shillings a week, and taught in log school-houses.

1827. JOHN L FOWLER

Came, with his wife, to Willoughby, and rented Wert's mill; afterwards moved to Mentor; thence to Burton, the year 1827, and located on the Ferris farm, lot 84, on Oak hill, where he remained most of his life. Their children were: Phebe Ann, Margaret, William, Eliza Jane, Andrew L., Simeon, Cordelia, Jenette, and Wheeler. For many years members of the Presbyterian church, they now both rest beneath the hill.

Andrew L.—the second son, was born in Willoughby, July 12, 1821. He was on the farm to the age of 20; then, in March, 1841, went to Cleveland, where he learned the wagon-maker's trade. In the Carltons' shops, on the

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corner, he carried on the trade for several years, and was successful, doing at one time quite an extensive business. Having a large interest in the cheese factory at Andover, Ashtabula county, his time is now much engaged there. His musical talent was utilized by the church several years.

The grandfather of this Fowler family was Andrew L., and he lived in affluence, on a large estate, at White Plains, in the time of the Revolution. Washington's headquarters was in his house. The general was at breakfast, when the bugle sounded for the battle. He said to his officers: "We are to have a hard fight to-day," and surely they did. The Federals used everything in the house, emptying feather beds and taking the ticks to use in dressing the wounded. The fight waged fiercely. Mrs. Fowler went to close a door, when a cannon ball struck the post, and carried it into the room, the ball falling spent upon the floor. The farm was large, and the battle swept up towards the house. The negro servants in charge of the "plantation," confiscated what the soldiers had left, and one, mounted on Fowler's own horse, rode to the door, and, in a commanding manner, inquired "If Andrew L. Fowler was at home?" The old man leveled his rifle, but the darkey dashed off. The hogs, from a large lot, were driven into the cellar, and were all killed for the troops. His daughter had married a British officer, and while Mr. Towler was, in principle, with the Colonies, the relationship caused him to stand neutral, and, between the Continentals and red-coats, his property was sacrificed.

1829. JAMES PEFFERS.

The men who early took hold upon this land, to possess it, were of strong will and unflinching courage, brave in lonliness, in resistance to suffering and disease, determined to overcome and to enjoy. Of such was this comer to Burton, in 1829, James Peffers. Born in Kingsbury, Washington county, New York, September 4, 1800, at the age of 21, he packed all his effects in a handkerchief, and with 50 cents in his pocket, started west. With his brother Michael, they pitched upon a tract of land, near Chautauqua lake, cut a field, and s0wed it to wheat, were dissatisfied, sold the crop, and moved on towards sunset. Relatives had preceded, and gone on to Illinois. He traveled on to the great prairies, and in several of the western States, but finally returned to Warren, Ohio, about 1827. He taught school one winter in Champion. A wagonmaker by trade, he worked at building plows, and April 15, 188, went into Mr. Adams' employ, at $12.00 per month, in the store in Warren, and in buying stock. With the family of Mr. Adams his attachments were strong and life-long. November 26, 1829, he married Julia Boughton, a lovely lady, sister of George Boughton, and soon after moved to Burton. In company with George Boughton, he set up store, in the house where Dr. Lawyer now resides. "Eb" Stickney thinks he could have transported their entire stock in trade, that early day, in three wheelbarrow loads. 'Small beginning upon which to build a competence, such as these men both acquired. His wife died August 15, 1834, leaving three children; Julia, who married E. J. Estep, a lawyer of large practice, in Cleveland; died there December 2, 1878; Emily, married to D. J. Merriman; and Ellen, married to James Herendeen, both living. In October, 1831, at Franklin (Kent), O., he married the second wife, Amanda Wright, a lady highly esteemed, who now survives him. Lucy, their only child, was married to W. P. Russell, in 1863. They remained with the old people, in the care of the farm.

His family occupied a frame house, where the Hickox brick now stands, during the building of the present home on the five acres southwest of the square.

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He continued in merchandizing about 25 years. Through the influence of Elisha Whittlesey, he was appointed postmaster, successor to Peter B. Beals, and continued 6 years, through four administrations, beginning in Jackson's time, 1830. Eighteen years he served the township, as justice of the peace. On Rocky run, he built a saw-mill. Long after it went down he tilled his farm, along the bank of the stream, Part of the Rose property, and finally the Hickox farm, was his purchase. In later years, his time was much given to agsiculture, He was an interested supporter of the county fairs, served as chief of police several years, and always had cattle or something to exhibit. From Maryland, in 1858, he brought a full-blooded Devon heifer, and bred the stock. Since then, he has also raised Ayershires and Alderneys, doing much to improve the breeds. A man of integrity, and good judgment, the esteem of his townsman was expressed by his long continuance in office. In the State militia of New York he was an ensign. In that State he had membership with the Baptist church.

October 21, 1879, suddenly, in the night, scarcely awakening him, the lungs were paralyzed, and death came, claiming another of the early pioneers.

His funeral was attended, October 23d. Many citizens gathered at the house, to pay their last respects to the dead. Had he been sleeping, the face could have worn no pleasanter look thaii it did in this last rest, at the age of 79, In the closed hand were leaf and blossom, and on the coffin, a cross. of flowers, Old men came to look upon him, who had long been one with them. Tears ex. pressed unwritten words, "passing away."

The old pastor, Rev, Dexter Witter, conducted service. To this home had come the angel of death, and at the midnight hour the shadow had fallen, bringing sorrow and lamentation to the household. Text—Psalms, xc : 10, After service, beneath the hill, the young people sang sweetly, when he was laid to rest.

1829. GEORGE BOUGHTON.

In Danbury, Connecticut, a trading town, a trader was born April 6, 1808. This was the merchant whose name heads the page. His father, Eli S. Boughton, moved into Canfield, Mahoning county, in 1809, and carried on tailoring, employing several journeymen, and finally went into general merchandising. At the age of 10 years, George was clerk in the store, and at 14, book-keeper. Thus early he developed the talent of managing, which afterwards brought success, With one of his father's men, he crossed the mountains, at the age of 18, taking to market fourteen horses. When the country was yet rough and wild, the girls were equal to many a brave performance. The Hon, Judge Newton's wife, now living at Canfield, used to aid George most heartily in breaking colts to ride. In the stable, she would hold a colt for him to get on, and in time, he would quiet and pet the 3-year-old, while she mounted for a ride. She took a seat in a wagon behind a wild Kentucky horse, and he began rearing. She was told to get out, but naively replied: "No, not until the horse gets in." A quick and active youth, he took delight in training young horses. One winter, his father had 40 horses in keeping, and a large number of cattle. George took two droves east, for market, encountering the rough life and exposure with vigorous energy, and doing the business well. In December, 1829, he reached Burton. In the store, then kept in Dr. Lawyer's present house, he was in company with James Peffers about two years, when they were joined by Richard Beach for a year, About the close of the year, Mr, Peffers sold out to Boughton, who continued on with Mr. Beach some ten years in the old Beach store. Finding reas0n f0r change, a cabinet-shop was bought of David Hitchcock, and in the

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small front room of it, Boughton opened store. Diligent and obliging, his trade increased, and he built up a fortune in this same store, which he enlarged to be a very convenient and roomy concern.

Lola Cook—born February 25, 1814, a lively girl, tall—with preposessing dignity and wondrous eyes—attracted the young men to John Cook's, and among others, Henry Ford, whose mischief and fun were irrepressible. Boughton, dressed with taste, and a Sunday neatness of style, wandered that way, of an evening, with some show of regularity, and visited at "Uncle John's." The owls, when the evening grew long, hooted and disturbed Lola. He took down the old gun, and the woods echoed with reports of burnt powder, and the " terwhoots—her-whoo," were echoed again and again. The boys charged that Henry needed no more night sleep than an owl, and Lola knew it. Boughton continued his attentions, and they were married September 10, 1834. With him, much in the store, when he was east for goods, she used to direct affairs at home, and often tried lard, and worked the butter, in those days of a cash and barter store. She foddered the cow, milked, looked after the chores; and did anything to help him along, but he oid the breaking of colts. It was no less a credit then, to do all these things, "to make way in the world," than now, to make embroidery, and delicately touch the piano, to aid the husband along. She remembers the deer jumping the logs on the square, when she was a school girl, in the second academy. The pine trees, standing in front of their pleasant home, and opposite from the Dr. Goodwin brick, they brought from Oak hill, in 1835, in a buggy.

Somewhat of a hunter, he shot deer on the Umberfield lot, west. Harry Umberfield called him early one morning, and, east of Burton hill, his rifle brought from a tree a hen turkey. Imitating the call of the mother, he decoyed four of the young ones from their hidings, and the unerring rifle added them to his morning count, Under the old militia system, he was aid to General Ford, and, on .the staff, did duty in the "general muster days."

In the saddle, he was master. No horse, though often it was tried, dismounted him. Many will recall those times, and his style, as a fine rider and good officer. On one occasion he and the general made a brilliant display, both mounted and dashing away on cream-colored horses. The trips East for goods were long and tedious, taking four or five weeks to get around, and were made by boat on the lake, and by stage. On one trip, the stage was 12 hours making 14 miles, in the Cattaraugus woods. He handled all kind of produce, pork and cheese. In the early making of cheese, he paid 4 and 434 cents per pound for it. After Mr. Beach, Silas Gaylord was in company with him; then Joseph Johnson, afterwards S. C. Ford, and then Marcellus Cook, and lastly, G. H. and R. N. Ford. He was postmaster for some time, The position of secretary and treasurer of the agricultural society was tendered him, and, on acceptance, he found 18 cents in the treasury. When he retired, the debts of the society were paid, and there was a balance of $500 on hand, The only suit ever brought against him, was by a railroad company, that came to be known as the "Clinton Air tight." He defended twice, and was sustained, but did not appear in court, only by his attorneys.

Members of the Congregational church, both he and his wife are its liberal supporters, and' they gave quite a sum when the building was remodeled, in 1876. Having no heirs, they live quietly, in the enjoyment of a liberal income, and are much interested in the two nephews with whom he is associated in banking. He closed business as a merchant in 1872. With others, he has done much for the upbuilding of the town.

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1831, MATTHEW D. MERRIAM.

In the seashore State of Connecticut, at Watertown, this unpretending man was born August 26, 1801, Beginning with the century, in his quiet way, he has lived up to the front of its advancement, in that he has seen some of the early purposes of his heart accomplished. He has known the resistless sweep of the oncoming tide of human events, bearing high on its waves, all races and classes of men, however proud, or however humble, to a common shore and common level, and thereby made equal before the highest tribunal of his country, and so recognized before all mankind.

Far back, when the doctrines of abolition began fermenting society, and pulpit and bar were hurling anethamas on the "Old Advance Guard " in the days of Garrison, Gerrit Smith and Douglass, he was on the picket line. From his house acrosss the way, he brought candles, got fuel, and "lit up" Carlton's wagon shop for the first Abolition meeting. Rev, Isaac Winans is said to have been the speaker. Men came miles to hear, and they began to think. A newspaper, published at Oberlin, came to his house, and to two or three other families who were inquiring for light. The matter was serious, and excited his church to discussion. In one of their religious meetings, these Congregationalists debated the advent of the Oberlin papers in town, and charged that the "Devil with his cloven foot had come." The old Whigs stood off with dignity, and went "by on the other side," fearful that a Free-soiler might stain their gar- ments, and the Democratic party laughed at so weak a thing.

Elder Peepoon came and spoke of the nation's sin, admonishing that the year of jubilee was coming, He went home with others of the then despised few, and dined with Esquire Merriam and his family. In some sense the family felt ostracized from society by the stand they had taken, but it was right, and they stood firm. Willard Beals, of Troy, was early with them in the work. Squire Benton, Mansel Wicks, Sperry and Taylor, with him, made a vanguard of strength, in the new debate that was finally to silence all opposition, and at last, to still the cannon's roar on the field of battle. Along the ways of his neighbors, when they met, the squire argued for man, equal before God, and at the shops talked of wrongs, oppression and fugitives. The suns rolled on, and a score of years went by. The squire's hairs were grey, and the bloom of youth had faded from• the patient face of the wife, but the victory had come. The sword and the shield of the Onion was the black man's weapon, freedom his boon, and the ballot, the right he had won before the world. The early Abolitionists were often sneered at in this intelligent town of the Reserve.

His wife, Emeline, a daughter of Johnson F, Welton, was born March 14, 1803, The marriage occurred January 1, 1823, and they emigrated to Burton in t831, settling in the woods south, on lot 67, where M. Adams now lives. After a time, they moved from this farm to the Seth Hayes place, east of Russel's, and afterwards to the Beal's tavern. He built a commodious house, and now resides there. He had the contract of rebuilding the lower bridge over the Cuyahoga in 1853, doing a large job that summer. Always held in high esteem by his townsmen, he served them, in the office of justice of the peace, from 1837 to 1846, and several years as assessor.

One night Elisha Carlton hitched his oxen to a sled, Merriam, Marc Dickerman and Marc Cramton each a pair on a head, and, with their wives, drove to town and attended a temperance meeting held in the old academy. Squire Merriam was called to be president of the society when organized. The pledge was circulated and signed by the women and others. Dickertnan and Cramton would 'not sign, and the women refused to let them ride, but the two Mares" guided the team off by Umberfield's tavern, and went in to get the drinks, and

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"steam up." The other drivers started the team on, and left the thirsty ones to overtake them as best they could. As they were left behind that night, so the influence of the tavern has ever held men o n the road of life. Write it now-, on the finger-board by the wayside, to be read of all men—the bar-room walk is the way of ruin to every young man who seeks it, In the various efforts favoring temperance, he was always ready, and opened the "upper hotel" without a bar, and kept it strictly on principle, a good and well patronized house, a public benefit and honor to his town, The children are:

Mary A.—born November 8, 1823. She married Arthur H. Thrasher [see biography], December 19, 1850, and to thelrn was born a son, Albert J., May 3, 1858.

The second daughter was born November 26, 1825, and was named

Martha K.—Girls at home, in the unrestrained freedom of the farm, these two sisters grew up bright of eye and light of heart, with a natural ease Of manner to which culture gave the tone of gentility. Firm in their opinions, they came to the support of the father in his decided stand for human rights, and were not ashamed to be known as abolitionists.

Joseph R. Johnson, son of the old hunter, John Johnson, of Middlefield, came to be a clerk in George Boughton's store. A young man of larger views than many of his friends knew, he was too broad, in mind and disposition, to be cutting ribbons and tape, but he had stepped into the work, and how much ever he might have dreamed of the wide world and the walks of higher cultivation, his duty must first be well done here. His bold, heavy pen stroke, still drawn on the store books, denotes how strong a main he was. By and by he became a partner with Mr. Boughton. Martha might have deftly culled the newest styles of prints, the gay patterns of which he was happy to show to so pleasant a customer. I don't know as to that, only the record is, that one of those balmy days of spring, they were married. It was May 24, 1849, and this is true, that in one of the coziest little limes, next south of the store, they were happy and content. To them was born Anna, February 24, 1853, now grown to womanhood, a young lady of culture, and possessed of the good sense inherent in both father and mother, and that rare independence of the grandfather, which held him to principle rather than policy. Joseph Johnson was a friend to the youth* of his time, and ever ready to aid any one, having pure motives, to rise higher, Sickness came, and he died, when his work had just begun, alas too soon. The day was September 9, 1856. He sleeps east of the village, and the afternoon of the maple tree's shade falls on the grave of one of the best of men, who went down in the morning of life. The widow is at home in the house of her father, and the granddaughter enjoys the old mansion and its stories of yore.

WILLIAM CAY.

Yes, sir ! "Grandpap" Umberfield brought the first pigs into town from Warren, and the first cat. Getting up early one winter morning he found seven Indians lying on the hearth. They had crept in, said they didn't want to "sturb white man Umberfield." One of them and claimed to be pious, and said "grace" at breakfast that morning. On a hunt, they shot a bear and he fell into the crotch of a tree, one Indian tied his feet together, and climbed up the tree like a squirrel. He poked away with a pole, and the bear was so fat as to split open when he fell. " Pos-t-i-v-e fact,". One day lightening struck a cherry tree with scythes in it, and dashed things flying, knocking Harry Umberfield into the mud. Grandpap came hurrying out and saw the young man before he

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had come to—singing out in his peculiar way, "Swear, could stand more of a knock than that myself."

Mr. Cay was born in Cheshire, Connecticut, August 3, 1803, and Mrs. Cay in Watertown, September 17, 1804. The children, Frederick and Willis, were born in Cheshire, and John in Burton, whither the family arrived June 28, 1833, The goods were put in a one-horse wagon (weight 1,100 pounds), and with the family came down every hill to Albany, Buffalo and Painesville without locking a wheel. In crossing Grand river the water ran into the wagon. With $63, less expense of journey, buying one meal a day, at taverns, and bed at night, they made the journey in 6 days, sound and right, and stopped at a house just north of Deacon Cook's. In early winter he moved to a log house by a spring, half a mile east of his present home, on the Bently farm, His first purchase of good land was a farm of 60 acres, at $5 per acre, and afterwards upwards of 40 more at about $20, or 100 acres at $1,200. Present value of 140 acres, he estimates at $9,000. He cleared, by means of his own hand-labor, 75 acres of his farin, and some 100 acres for other people.

With his wife, who had ague one season, he went east in 1837, by lake and canal, and returned in September. Working by the day, he was at Deacon Cook's early in January, called him up in the morning, threshed out 9 or 10 bushels of wheat in a day, with a flail, bound the straw, and at sundown, would walk home, 3 miles, and feed his cattle. What would some of the hard worked laborers of this day, who begin at 8 and quit at 5, say to 50 cents a day for such work. In his early morning calls, from his house over the river, he was mortified in disturbing Deacon Cook at family prayers. At the age of 64 he dug from one-third of an acre, in one day, 92 bushels of potatoes. " Pos-t-i-v-e fact; leave it to Fred." This was in 1867, and the potatoes sold for $1 25 per bushel.

Hunting was fat on his side of the river. Mr. Stull killed 15 deer one morning, and in all he shot 1,100.

Mrs. Cay was a respected member of the Congregational church, She died July 30, 1878, and was buried in the village cemetery.

1833 CALEB JOHNSON

Rested, on the 26th day of May, and gathered his family about him in Burton, How much of misgiving laid clouds above the green wood of that day, or how much of hope was in the sunshine and rainbow of promise that came with the passing showers, it matters not. In the high noonday of his life, this great worker, strong in experience, changed from the business of the East to Ohio, with a large family, determined to raise them well, on that noblest field of development, the farm. One hundred and sixty acres of lot 68, where Albert Tuttle now lives, was bought at $8.00 per acre, and on it he settled. In "old Worcester," Mass., that beautiful city of the grand New England hills, he was born, in 1779. Thirza Tredway's birth was ten years later-1789, Their wedding took place in 1804, In Rutland, Jefferson county, New York, they owned a large farm, and, in connection with it, he conducted an extensive trading and store business. He was a "cutter" by trade, and "did away" with piles of goods, busying several hands at the tailor's bench. He did something at it here, and careful was the clip of his shears, even in the coarser homespun of this new country. In the society's rooms is an il!ustrated "fashion plate," of the styles used when he was in trade, The fit of a gentleman was drawn as closely then, as now.

Some 20 years he served as magistrate in New York State, and was a high

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Mason in the time of the excitement created by the mysterious disappearance of Morgan. A faithful and attendant member of the Methodist church, and a strong leader, it came about that the brethren decided he must give up Masonry, or be cut off from the church. He did neither, but demanded a letter from the church, which could not be refused to him or his wife. On coming to this country, it was not presented to any organization, but he kept his religious faith firmly to his death, which occurred December 5, 1846. He had reading of the Bible and family prayers. Mrs. Johnson survived him many years, dying April 16, 1874. They sleep by the river.

The children of the family were: John T., Benjamin, Caleb B., Daniel L., Garry C., Henry S., Sarah C., Levi L., DeWitt C., and Thirza Maria. Ann was married to Dr. Buckley and remained east.

Daniel L.,—the 4th son, married Minerva Brown, March 1, 1846. He began the cabinet business, and worked first in what had been Jonathan Brooks', jr,, harness shop, on the spot where Slitor's store now stands. What changes in life. Two sons were born to them—William, athletic like his grandfather Brown, and Charles, a bright boy who died young, and the mother, a few years later, April 10, 1874, followed him to the long rest. The father married her sister, Harriet Brown, January 22, 1877, and now the shop in which he first worked, stands across the street, north of the brick block, remodeled into a neat little cottage house, and in it he finds the quiet of home.

He continued in the furniture business, with success, for t6 years; was 22 years postmaster, coming in after Mr. Sherwood, who was a partner in the cabinet work; elected justice of the peace in 1874, he served three years. At one time he conducted a flourishing trade in general merchandising, but in the depressing times after the war, troubles came. A fair-minded man of high tone, he has held the respect of his fellow-men and their suffrage, more than once, as justice and trustee. His time is now engaged in one of the brick stores, in the employ of S. Ehrlich & Co. With the first band, he was ready to do his part, as now he is with the Citizens' band, and was always a lover of music. His step behind the great bass drum, is always••with the tremendous beat of its heavy resound. In the service of his country, with the 100 day men, he was ready and prompt to duty, in the 171st Ohio national guards. He holds his certificate from Abraham Lincoln, expressing the thanks of the president to each of the members of the regiment for their patriotism in the days of the nation's great peril.

1833 OBED WARREN WICKS.

The middle name of this man, dates back to the blood of the revolution, shed on bunker Hill. General Warren, who fell in that battle, was an ancestor on the mother's side. His great-great-grandfather was one of the original settlers at Providence, Rhode Island, and lived in those dark days when houses were supposed to be "bewitched." He was captured by the Narragansett Indians and burned alive. His wife's father, Edward Ellis, was in the battle of Bunker Hill, and recollected seeing Putnam ride back and forth, urging the raw militia to cross the neck onto the hill. Mr. Wicks was born in Halifax, Vermont, December 15, 1786. He emigrated to the Blackriver country in New York, and volunteered in defense of Sackett's Harbor, in the war of 1812. Going to Massachusetts about 1808, he found Miss Sabra Ellis in Deerfield whom he married, and the newly made pair rode to the Blackriver country on horseback. In the fall of 1832, he came to Bundysburgh, Ohio, and during thcmonth of March, in the following spring, settled on lot 40, in Middlefield, just east of, and near Abel

580 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO,

Cramton's, and was considered a citizen of Burton. He began clearing the deep woods, and was helped by his youngest son Obed, in turning the wilds into a well-improved farm. From the woods north of Eli Fowler's, the deer had a run-way to the south woods—a heavy body 0f timber lying east of Monroe Moore's, Jolly's and the Bartholemew's farms. This run-way was about sixty rods east of Wick's house, and the beech trees now standing by the roadside, were used by the hunters to hang the deer on. One day James Pierce, fr0m the east, went out with John Johnson, who had loaded Caleb Johnson's shot-gun with seven balls. Pierce was no hunter, but took the place assigned him, to wait for the deer when started up. Obed, then a boy, who was with the party, took the hounds away north, and drove out the deer in a herd. When they came in sight, along the runway, Pierce was told to fire. The flash of the gun blinded him, and its kick laid him on his back. Getting up, he growled out something about his shoulder being broken, but John, at this moment sang out, "you've killed a deer." His shoulder was well in an instant, and he ran to the fallen animal. He felt extremely proud of the gun that brought down game at both ends.

Mr. Wicks left the farm in the care of his son, Obed, and was for some time in the employ of George Boughton. A quiet man, full of stories, and a smoker, his pipe will be remembered in that store.

His trips, of 1,000 miles, to visit his s0ns, at Council Bluffs, Iowa, were often made; and on the last round, returning from there the twelfth time, he stopped at the call of a Higher Power than that of man. From the wilderness of Ohio to the wild prairies of the west, by boat and by river, he went, and when railroads were built, he took the trains. Returning home; to see his youngest son, at Cleveland, he left the cars, on the night of July 3, 1866, and becoming bewildered, walked off the dock, near the old depot, into the lake, and was drowned. The body was found on the 7th, and the writer, then living in Cleveland, was called, with S. C. Ford, to identify the remains, which had been placed in a room on Water street. Word was immediately sent to his son, Obed, at Burton, who came quickly on the sad errand, and returned with the remains, which were buried in the cemetery, at Middlefield, on July l0th. He was a generous man, and always kind to his family. His wife died February r0, 1837.

Stuteley Wicks—the oldest son, went with the Pottawattamie Indians, as agent, to Council Bluffs, and was the first white settler there.

Mansel—the second son, went to the same place, in 1847, and still lives there. He was one of Squire Benton's converts to the Liberty party, and stood, a first and fearless advocate of equal rights. He was prominent in the building of the Union Pacific railroad, and is now quite well off. When here, he worked at tailoring, over Boughton's store, and could argue, with his legs crossed, as well as sew, and the boys used to go in and beg him to tell stories of whaling voyages, and the sea.

Obed—the youngest son, was born January 11, 1825. He kept the old farm for many years, and cultivated it in an intelligent way—reaping profits therefrom. Finally, after having sold, he located on the place where Ira Hoadley so long lived, on lot 49, where he now resides. The clearing of this lot was commenced by Deacon Fabian Beard, who had worked for Squire Law until it was paid for. Obed has cleared up the swamp part of the farm, which was utilized by hunters and trappers only, and has made of it a large pasture field.

Probably the biggest day's chopping ever d0ne in this t0wnship was by Obed Wicks. It is remembered by William P. Russell. Wicks having bought a pair of fine boots from Russell's father, which were to be paid for in chopping, he started for the woods at sunrise, chopped until noon, and, without stopping for dinner, concluded he could finish the job in one day. When night came, he

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 581

had cut, split and piled seven cords of stove wood. He was a very tired youth, but the fact was, the boots were paid for by one day's work.

1834 - JOHNSON F. WELTON

Came this year and located on the Barnes place, and afterwards moved where Corlos Williams lives, on the square, where he died in 1844. He did considerable business in the loaning of money. Frederick occupied the farm many years. Lewis J. lived on lot 18, near the gulf, where he died in 1846. Mr. Welton was married to

Sarah Bronson—the year 1794. She was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, December 5, 1767. At the residence of M. D. Merriam, esq., December 18, 1867, there was a family gathering to celebrate her centennial birthday. She was active and lively, enjoying the occasion, in good health, and having a clear eyesight. Sixty friends sat down to dinner with her, and beside her sat Susan Bronson, a maiden sister, aged 84, who had come on from Connecticut to be with her at this centennial gathering. Many letters and sentiments were sent in and read on the occasion. At so advanced an age, a few days later, she rode one day comfortably in a sleigh, with her son Frederick, from Chardon to Colamer, a distance of some 22 miles. She was the mother of ten children, eight of whom survived her. Mrs. M. D. Merriam and Mrs. Sarah Ford, two of the daughters, live in town. Her death occurred March 23, 1870, at the remarkable age of 102 years, 4 months and 8 days, the oldest person ever dying in the township. Her age was exceeded by Mrs. Waters, mentioned by Judge Taylor as dying in Claridon, at the age of 104 years and 10 months. At the time of her death, the oldest of her children was 72 years, the youngest 55. Her grandchildren were 40, great-grandchildren 56, and great-great-grandchildren 3, makrng, in all, living and dead, 109 lineal descendants. She was a member of the Episcopal church.

1834 - SILAS GAYLORD

Came this year, in the fall. Edward Griswold was first on the ground, and built a shop, where Mrs. Cleveland's house now stands.

Mr. Gaylord was born in Cheshire, Connecticut, in the year 1812, and at the age of 22, was married in Cheshire, October 8, 1834, to Miss Mary, a daughter of Capt. Stephen Tuttle, who had decided to share, with this well proportioned, fine looking and resolute young man, a wedding trip to Ohio, and help to build his fortunes in the west. How the days of the honeymoon went swiftly by, as they journeyed on the "Old Canawl in York State," with a gay and social party, in the cabins, and on the decks of the famous regular line packets. When past Erie, the woods and rough staging, had in it much of adventure, while hopes for the future, kept bright the pathway of the young couple. They went east the next spring, and he traveled and sold goods in New York. In 1836 he was again with Mr. Griswold, and they carried on an extensive tin business, keeping several teams, busy selling through the country. Jamison, of Warren, worked for him, and William Gaylord learned the trade in their shop. His brother, Raymond, built the house, afterwards ovnied by John A. Ford, west of the square. Silas and his wife boarded there.

There was great demand for brass kettles, and this enterprising firm sold them extensively. The Mormon settlers at Kirtland were large purchasers, and paid

582 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

for the kettles in Mormon bank currency, the sum of $500. This was presented at the bank counter, and the coin demanded. It was paid, and the bank soon failed, creating great excitement in the country. Gaylord found it convenient to be in the east until the storm was over. He always claimed that this $500 gold, removal, "scooped the bottom rock," of that famous institution.

In 1841 he lived in Chardon, and conducted a tin-shop, On account of health, he went to Maine, and off the coast in a cod-fishery excursi0n, and also went south. Returning, he employed Mr. Miller, an Englishman, and set up the tanning business in John Cook's shop. To compel out-door labor, as he needed, for some years he bought and kept stock on the farm north of Chapman's, on Oak hill, and worked there. Going again into trade, his partner was Nathan Tuttle, and they occupied a new store, on the east side of the street. Afterwards he was in a Farmers' store, in the Beach building, then in company with Mr. Beach, and, later, with Mr. Boughton. Finally, he built the new store, next to Boughton's, and, in partnership with his son-in-law, C. A. Hawthorne, occupied it. During the war, they carried on an extensive general mercantile business. Henry Tuttle was last in company with him. Elected commissioner, he was very active and useful to the county in the time of the war, spending money and labor in the recruiting service.

With persevering industry, and by large business capacity, he labored faithfully through all the "ups and downs" of life, and gained a competence. Occupying the old homestead, where his father lived, with a house full, of three families—the father's, wife's father's, and his own—his choicest nature shone out at home. Genial in his social intercourse with all, they gathered about the fire, when he came in the evening, for the later hours' chat, or for reading of books, aloud, as was often done by one of the family, for the circle, and in that finer, and more exclusive sense, were happy with him at home, where all real social life should find its foundation and its enduring strength. Independent in action, he was a good citizen, and his social ways drew to him many a traveler along the roads of trade and commerce, for enjoyment in story-telling, whiling away the moments of rest.

An only daughter, Ellen, born in Chardon, December 31, 1842, was married to Charles A. Hawthorne, September 10, 1861,

A little son, Freddie, born September 17, 1860, was prostrated, as were the whole family, by dysentery. He died August 24, 1865. Old Mrs. Gaylord followed hrm, September 9th; then, Elizabeth Tuttle, at 9 P. H., September i4th, and young Hawthorne at 10 P. M. the same day. Captain Tuttle died September 26th, and Silas Gaylord, sr,, November 17th, the same fall, and Mrs. Tuttle the next spring—May 31st. This awful desolation left only Silas, his wife, and daughter, Mrs, Hawthorne-only three of a family of ten. He died June 2, 1872. The older ones, from the care of his strong manhood, so kindly given them, had gone first. Vacant the places, the circle swept away, and in the shadow only two—the mother and daughter—remain, still expressing to the passers at their door, in cheery way and act, the influence of independent culture in that home. Mr. Gaylord, and the three families, were all members of the Congregational church. They were laid to rest in the upper cemetery.

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 583

ALMON B. CARLTON

Was born on lot 79, in a log house, February 19, 1815. The loss of his father occasioned a change in the family, and Almon went to live with Hiram Cook, when he was 7 years old, and remained with the family until he was 6. His uncle, Hiram, was a kind man, and cared for him as a father, and his boyhood recollections of " Aunt Lorinda," in those far away years, bring to his heart, the home-feeling of care and sympathy in that family.

With Rufus Hulburt, in Claridon, he worked to learn the carpenter's trade,. at the age of 19. In the winter of 1835-36, he helped finish the inside of the Congregational church. An energetic workman and builder, he was the contractor in the construction of the last academy, and also built the Brewster house, and many privateresidences, continuing to do something at the trade until about 1860.

His first marriage was with Caroline Herendeen, January 9, 1842. Their children—a son, Charles, and a daughter, Marcia-are living. Three others died young. The wife died May 29, 1858. After four years, he was married to Mrs. Clarissa Case, of Randolph, Portage county, February 23,1862. On the spot where the second academy stood, on the east side of the square, he put up a neat dwelling in 1863, where he now lives, enjoying, quietly, the autumn of life, From the first he has made headway in the world, and has always been a good liver. Offices of the town were frequently pressed on him, but, desiring to be free in action, and independent in the expression of opinion, he would not accept office, only serving as trustee a short trme,

In 1863, while Salmon P. Chase was secretary of the treasury, Mr. Carlton was appointed assessor of internal revenue, for the south part of the county. The duties were so faithfully performed, that, in a subseqUent change of officers, he succeeded to the charge of the whole county. He served in the latter capacity four years, making a total of eight years of public service. The secret service agents made no call on him, and while all just dues went direct to his superiors, the delicate points were so well adjusted with tax-payers, as to leave Mr. Carlton strong and faithful friends throughout his district.

Always active in the up-building of his town, he has given five years of service, as agent for the Building company, free of charge, and has always been ready to act for what he deemed the public good. Taught temperance by his father, he has helped many a poor fallen one up, and encouraged them to regain position, and has been an active worker in nearly all societies for the suppression of the liquor traffic and intemperance.

A mason, in religion orthodoxy is more of that church than any other, and, though not always a regular attendent, his money has been given in support of the regular churches. His early recollections of the people here, have cast light upon many facts for the Pioneer History, and revived the story of occurrences long since forgotten.

In politics, first a Whig, then a Republican, he has stood firm with the party, a known "wheel-horse" in caucases and conventions.

584 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

JACOB B. COFFIN.

The subject of this sketch was born in Hudson, Columbia county, New York, May 4, 1842, and was the eldest son of Simeon L and Phebe A. Coffin, who were lineal descendents of one of the oldest and most respectable families in the city. The ancestrial line of the father, follows back to the "Old Admiral Coffin," of the British navy. His father went to California in 1848, and died there a few weeks after his arrival. His mother, thus widowed, was left with meager sreources on which to support herself and only son (two other children having died), and was compelled to labor hard in order to provide the necessities of life, hoping in the future he would be able to lift the burdensome load from her shoulders—a hope which she lived to see fulfilled. He was apprenticed to the printer's trade at the age of 12, entering the office of Alexander M. Webb, of the Hudson Daily and Weekly :Star. Here he served his time, and then accepted a position on the America, (N. Y.) Times. When the war broke out, he became restless, and finally, in August, 1862, enlisted in the 128th New York v0lunteer infantry. This regiment served with distinction under General Banks, in Louisiana, and General Sheridan in the last Shenandoah valley campaign in Virgina. Coming out of the war somewhat shattered in health, Mr. C. sought rest, and by careful treatment regained his usual good health. He once more entered upon his professional duties. He was married November s0, 1866, to Cornelia G. Miller, and the year following, moved (with her father's family) into Onedia county, New York. He continued at his trade until August, 1873, when he came to Ohio and became a partner in the publication of the Andover Enterprise. The following year he disposed of this interest, came to Burton, and founded The Geauga Leader, the first number of which was issued December 18, 1874. He has been successful in business, and is now free of debt. Truth and honesty have been his guiding stars, and consequently he has a reputation that none can gainsay.