816 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. CATHARINE AIKIN, farmer, P. O., Northwood ; was born in April, 1825, in County Donegal, Ireland ; her father, William McKinley, was a farmer by occupation, and there married a lady by the name of Frances Maulseed. In 1836, with his family, which then consisted of eleven souls, he emigrated to this country, and settled in Adams Co., O., near Winchester. Never having worked in the timber, and despairing of success in the dense forest, he bought 80 acres of the best improved land he could find. He lived on it until 1864, when (his sons having embarked for themselves, and not wishing to rent to strangers), he sold it and came to Northwood where he died in 1869, acrd his wife in November, 1874. Catharine was married Dec. 1, 1854, to James, son of James and Hannah Aikin ; he was born in Ireland, and in 1832, being then 15 years old, came to this country with his parents. They lived in Philadelphia one year and then in Beaver Co., Pa., until 1836, when they carne to this township and bought 80 acres of land. James supported his parents until their death, and made all the improvements that are now to be seen on the farm, as it was then a dense forest. He was first married to Maria Irwin, and two children are now living who are the fruits of that union. Mrs. Aikin is the mother of five children-Sarah A., William J., Mary, Fannie J., and David S.; all have attended Geneva College, the eldest graduating in May, 1878. Mary taught school one term and then was married to Dr. Kennedy, who is now located at Mansfield. Mr. Aikin died July 31, 1873, and he and wife belonged to what they term the original Covenanters. WILLIAM W. BEATTY, attorney; Huntsville; was born Sept. 12, 1820, in Loudoun Co., Va.; his father, John H. Beatty, was a native of that state, and served in the war of 1812; he was married to Elender Sutherland, and worked at the trade of carpenter and joiner through life: in 1833 the family moved to this State and settled permanently in Moorefield, Harrison Co., where they remained until 1844, when they moved to this county; the mother died at Bellefontaine, and the father at this place in 1873, being then in his 86th year. The subject of this sketch received a fair, common school education, and learned the trade with his father and worked at it some tune after their removal to this county; however, be commenced the study of law with Allen C. Turner, at Cadiz, before coming here, and did most of the studying after completing his days' labor; he studied eighteen months with the above named gentleman, and after coming here entered the law office of Judge Lawrence, from which he was admitted to the bar; he moved to Belle Centre in 1850 and lived there five years, when be came to this place. Besides his profession he has several times engaged in mercantile speculations, and each McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 817 time retired with loss until taught by experience; he now devotes his entire time to his chosen profession; in 1874 he was elected to the Legislature from this county, and two years later to the State Senate; he is a stalwart Republican, and cast his first ballot for Gen. Harrison; in 1838 he was married to Mary Wilkins, who bore trim four sons and one daughter The sons were all in the service of their country, and one, David W., of the 1st Ohio, was killed at Mission Ridge; but one of these sons, John H., is living, he being in the mercantile business in Kansas; the daughter Kate is married and lives at Kenton; he was afterwards married to Jane Vansickles, and their union has produced three children-Mary M., Alice and Charles F.; the daughters are married; the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. CHRIST B. BRESTLE, merchant; Huntsville, is one of the most energetic and thriving business risen in this town, and is, withal, quite a remarkable man. He was born Sept. 16, 1835, in Middletown, Penn., and when scarcely 2 years old the family moved to Tiffin, in this State. His father, John Brestle, was a tanner and currier by trade, and married a lady named Catharine Witz. When 13 years old Christ took "French leave" of the old home, coming to Urbana and working in an eating house for John Gump. He had been with him about one year when a show came through the place, and then it was that Christ threw up a good position to follow their varying fortunes. Being naturally adapted to this kind of business, he soon took a conspicuous place among the curiosity men, and traveled extensively through this country as well as Mexico and the British Dominions. He took the first curiosity troupe into California, and from there went north over-land to Sitka, returning by vessel to Portland. He came to this place on a hunting trip in the fall of 1873, and liking the place he determined to make it his future home. He kept hotel and livery stable two years, when he quit the former and went into the grocery business; he had less than $20 capital, and from that has grown the large stock he now carries, doing a large and rapidly increasing trade. He was married while in Grass Valley, California, to Zobedia Luci, who was born in Russia July 15, 1846, and is said to be the first "Circassian beauty" ever exhibited in this country, having been brought here by Barnum. She is highly educated, and can readily use seven different languages. They have three children living-Lulu, Tena and Christ B. BURRELL S. COLLINS, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville ; was born Oct. 27, 1820, in Perry Co:, O.; his father, James Collins, was born in Miflin Co., Pa., and when near his maturity came to Perry Co., and was there married to Catharine Mills, of Virginia birth. He was a wheelwright and chair-maker by trade, and worked at these until 1833, when he moved to this county and engaged in farming ; he located at Cherokee, part of the town being on the land that once belonged to him. His wife died in June 1835, having borne him nine children, and in April 1836 he was married to Mrs. Mary Mahan ; he died in 1849. Burrell lived under the parental roof until his marriage, Oct. 31, 1843, to Margaret Mahan, and has since lived on the farm where he resides at present ; she was born in Franklin Co., and died Nov. 13, 1850, leaving two children-Mary and Isabella ; the first is married to John C. Brown and the other to John M. Graybeal, and both are living in Missouri. Mr. Collins was again married to Eleanor, daughter of David and Margaret (Beatty) Ghormley; she was born March 15, 1829, to Fayette Co., and came here a short time previous to her marriage. Their union has produced eight children, seven of whom are living-James B., David G., Sarah, Emma, Alma J., John B., Olive A., and Anna E.; the eldest is married and David is attending college at Wooster, O. The parents and five eldest of these children are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he has served as Elder since 1849. Is now a Republican, and voted first for Henry Clay. MATTHEW K. COYINGTON, farmer; P. O., Huntsville;. is the only child born to Matthew P. and Mary Covington, and was born in this county Jan. 7, 1850; his grandfather, Henry Coyington, was a native of Ireland, and after coming to this country served in the war of 1812; he was a Dunkard by faith, and married Anna Kavanaugh. She was born in Kentucky, and accompanied her folks to Champaign Co., in this State, at a very early day, there being only two houses 818 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES in Cincinnati when they crossed the Ohio river at that point. Some time after their marriage they moved to the vicinity of Lewistown, in this county, and bought a tract of Government land, but after a short residence traded it to Judge Shelby for a farm in Liberty Tp.; on this he died in 1850, and his faithful wife in 1874. Matthew P. was born in 1823, while they were yet in Champaign Co., and remained under the parental root until his marriage to Mary Stiles, when he settled on a portion of the old homestead. She was as born in Athens Co., and is of New England descent. Shortly after their marriage the vigorous young husband was taken from the bosom of his family. Mrs. Coyington was afterwards married to William Cooper, and bore him three children. Matthew, the subject of this sketch, commenced for himself when 7 years old, and farmed on the old homestead until the fall of 1879, except one year that he kept livery stable at De Graff; he now owns over 100 acres of land in this township; he was married in October, 1870, to Mary E. Guthrie, and on May 9, 1871, she died; he united his fortunes with those of Catherine Brown April 5, 1878. She was born Aug. 24, 1862, in Union Co.; is a daughter of John and Rebecca (Cooper) Brown; her parents died when she was quite young, and from the time she was 11 years old until marriage she was a hired girl. Their happy union has been blessed with one child -Charles F. He belongs to the Masonic Fraternity and Ancient Order of Workingmen. Has always been a Democrat. THOMAS COOK, Jr., farmer; P. O., Bellefontaine; was born April 7, 1830, in Knox Co., O. His father, Thomas Cook, Sr., was boat in Harrison Co., O., in 1801, and always followed farming. He was there married to Jane White, who was born in Ireland in 1800, and came to this country when 16 years old, her father aging in New York two weeks after their arrival. Thomas Cook lived it Harrison Co. until the year 1825, when with his family he moved to Knox Co., and resided there until the fall of 1833 when he moved to this county and bought 125 acres of land, mostly forest. He was captain of a militia company, and lived but a short time after coming to this county, dying in February, 1838, leaving a family, of six children, the eldest of wham was only 14 years old. The widowed mother reared these all to a useful and honorable life, and is now living with her eldest daughter in Iowa. Thomas, Jr., was married Dec. 20, 1849, to Jane, daughter of Peter and Sally (Campbell) Dow. She was born near Bellefontaine April 18, 1830. After marriage they lived on a farm one year and then moved into Bellefontaine where Thomas worked at the carpenter's trade seven years, when he traded his town property for the farm on which he now lives; this he has improved and cleared, until it bears but a slight resemblance to its farmer appearance. He now owes nearly 250 acres of land, forming a-model and productive farm. Their union has produced seven children, five of whom are living-Charles C., Mary L., Nannie J., Thomas J. and Orrin L. D. The eldest daughter is married to James E. McCracken; Charles E. and Nannie are among the successful school teachers of this country. Mr. Cook has served as Trustee and Assessor and is a member of the Agricultural Society. He has always been a Republican, and cast his first vote for John P. Hale. The whole family belong to the U. P. Church. CHARLES W. COOK, farmer; P. O., Bellefontaine; is the seventh of a family of eight children bore to Thomas and Jane Cook, and first saw the light of day Nov. 23, 1833, on the farm on which he now lives. The father departed this life when Charles was only 4 years old, and he was early inured to the toils that beset the paths of pioneer children. His education was meagre, but the deficiency was in part supplied by a complete knowledge of clearing, and the other branches that accompanied that essential art. He was married Nov. 16, 1854; to Martha., daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (Hosack) Patterson: She was born March 19, 1834, in this township, to which her parents moved in 1830; her father being a native of the Emerald Isle, and marrying the above named lady in Pennsylvania. Charles did not leave the old farm at his marriage; and although he possessed but a single gold dollar after the ceremony was performed, he soon after bought ht the old homestead, relying on his own efforts for success. He now owns 100 acres of land, on which he has erected large and beautiful buildings, and has one of the neatest and most tasty houses in the township. He was in the service, McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 819 being in Co. C., 132d O. V. I. His marriage has been blessed with eight children, six of whom are living-Mary A., Anna M., Thomas H., Ida B., Ira E., Charles K. The second daughter has attended Geneva College, and taught school several terms, with good success. The parents and the four eldest children belong to the U. P. Church, of which Mr. Cook has been Deacon. He has always been a Republican, and cast his first vote for John C. Fremont. JOSEPH P. CRETCHER, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the youngest of a family of eleven children, and was born Oct. 12, 1832, in this county; his rather, Jabez Cretcher, was a native of Kentucky and there married Nancy Pollock; in 1813, when there were only four members in the family, they moved to this county and settled near Lewistown;, they lived there only a short time, however, when they moved to Champaign Co. and bought a farm; five years later they again came into this county and bought 240 acres of land in Miami Tp., on which Mr. Cretcher and sons found ample scope for their energies for many years; he died Jan. 28, 1872, and his companion Feb. 19, 1874, having lived together over sixty-one years. Joseph lived under the parental roof until his marriage, March 25, 1858, to Catherine L., daughter of Paul and Mary (Carothers) Huston; she was born June 28, 1836, in this county, to which her parents moved as early as 1829; her father died April 13, 1868, in his 82nd year, and her mother some four years later. Joseph followed farming until 1868, when he moved to De Graff and worked at the harness trade, and afterwards manufactured brick; in 1874 he moved to where he now lives, owning a. farm of 100 acres; six children have blessed their marriage, whose names are- William H., Jabez McLaine, Paul Clarence, Homer G., Frank Burton and Joseph O.; Mr. Cretcher is a member of the Masonic Fraternity and of the Patrons of Husbandry; both he and his wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church; be has been a Democrat since the beginning of the war. M. DUDLEY DITZLER, physician and surgeon; Huntsville; is the fourth of a family of five children, and was born Oct. 12, 1853, in this township. His father, John Y. Ditzler, son of David and Anna M. Ditzler, was bore in Adarns Co., Pa., March 14,1815, and reared to the occupation of farming; he studied medicine, however, and graduated from the Jefferson Medical College, and many years after at the Sterling Medical College, at Columbus, O.; on receiving his first diploma he came West, seeking a location, and stopped first at Kenton, and then at Marseilles; he was married April 25, 1843, to Jane Dudley, and soon after came to this place, where he ever after lived; he had a large practice, and was loved and respected by all with whom he came in contact; he died June 26, 1878. Mr. Dudley clerked in the drug store, which belonged to his father, and there studied medicine; he graduated from the Cincinnati Medical College in June, 1876, and is now practicing his chosen profession; he was married Oct. 11, 1877, to Ida M., daughter of J. H. and Emma Harrod. She was born Oct, 23, 1855, and is now conducting a millinery store at this place. One child has blessed their union, Ida M. He is a stalwart Republican, and cast his first vote for R. B. Hayes. CHARLES DEAN, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the eldest child of Linsy and Nancy (Weaver) Dean, and was born June 12, 1842, on John Warwick's plantation, near Lynchburg, Va. According to his will, all were made tree at his death, and in 1849, they were brought to Stokes Tp., this county, and colonized on a large tract of new land which was purchased for them. The Dean family consisted of the father and three children, the wife and mother having died in Virginia. The father was again married, and is now living at Springfield, O., and works at the carpenter's trade. Charles enlisted in the army and helped make up the quota of Massachusetts, serving in Co. E, 55th Infantry. After the close of the war he returned to this county, and was married Dec. 9, 1865, to Mrs. Sarah Jane Harvey. He has devoted his whole attention to agricultural pursuits, and now owns a home of his own. He has a family of six children- Mary Alice, Ida Rosa, Elrena, Maggie, Harvey and Nancy. Mr. Dean and family belong to the United Presbyterian Church. He has always been a Republican. JOHN DENNY, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the eldest child and only son of three children, and was born July 14, 1802, near 820 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Allegheny City, Penn. His father, Dennis Denny, was born in county Donegal, Ireland, and was there married, and after having been blessed with two children he emigrated, in 1784 to the New World, with the intention of sending for his family, if favorably impressed with the country. His wife soon died, however, and he returned and brought over his two sons. He was here married to Eunice McLaughlin, a native of the Emerald Isle, and in 1814 moved to Warren Co., O., where he lived five years, and then came to Clarke Co., where he died Oct. 29, 1826. The mother and one sister always made their home with John from that time, and he supported them until their death; the mother departing this life Aug. 18, 1844. He bought a farm there on which he lived until 1837, when he came to this county and bought a tract of land, mostly new. He has from time to time added to this, and also bought in other localities. He has not neglected improvements, and, without doubt, has the finest house in this part of the county, as well as other valuable and tasty buildings. He was married Jan. 1, 1833, to Lucinda James; she was born Nov. 12, 1810, and died May 24, 1845, having borne six children, only two of whom are living- Dennis, who is married to Sally A. Nichols, and is living on the old homestead; and Sarah, now the wife of William McKinnon. Mr. Denny was married Sept. 18, 1856, to Mrs. Rebecca Robertson. She died April 25, 1859, and he has since been a member of his son's family. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he held the office of Steward for forty years. He is a Republican, and cast his first vote for Henry Clay. ABRAHAM ELDER, Jr., physician and surgeon ; Huntsville ; is the oldest practicing physician in this place, and has a large and lucrative practice ; he was born April 20, 1821, in Somerset, Perry Co., O.; his father, Abraham Elder, Sr., was a native of Lancaster Co., Pa., and was there married to Jane Johnston (he served in the war of 1812), and moved from there to this State, and lived a while in Perry Co., and came here in 1833 ; he lived one year in Bellefontaine and then moved on a farm near Huntsville, where he died in 1845. He had always been a heavy dealer in horses, taking them to Philadelphia, and bringing back goods, which his son sold in Bellefontaine. He was Associate Judge from the time he arrived until his death. Abraham commenced for himself when 21 years old ; be and a brother buying a farm which they conducted two years. During this time he was studying under Dr. Main at Richland, and then went into the mercantile business in Hardin Co.; while there the B. & I. R. R. was completed, and he built the first store room at what is now known as Ridgeway ; he kept drug store there, his partner being Dr. McCandless, with whom he studied until he entered the Starling Medical College, from which he graduated in 1854; he practiced two years at Ridgeway, and since at Huntsville. He was married March 11, 1845, to Mary A. Wallace ; she was horn May 13, 1826, in Pennsylvania, and came here when 10 years old ; by this union six children have been born, four of whom are living-Arra, Caroline, Vada, and Wallace. He and wife are consistent membersof the United Presbyterian Church. He voted first for Van Buren on the Free Soil ticket, and has since been a Republican. WILLIAM EDMISTON, dealer in wool, grain and lumber; Huntsville. Among the first settlers of this township, who were obliged to forego the advantages of an older and more advanced county be emigrating to one comparatively unsettled, was the Edmiston family, which consisted of Robert and Rebecca Edmiston, with their family, and came here from Ross Co. at a very early day, and settled on the farm now owned by D. B. Harrod. One of their children, whose name was also Robert, was born in 1813, in Ross Co., and was yet in his boyhood when he came to this county; he learned the trade of a cooper, and besides-working at this, he also conducted a farm; he was united in marriage to Narcissa Herren in 1836. She was born in 1818, in Queen Anne's Co., Md., and came to this county a short time previous to her marriage; in 1860 she was deprived of her earthly companion by the hand of death, leaving her with a family of five sons and three daughters, all of whom are yet living. The eldest son entered the service froth this place, and whets his time expired enlisted in the 20th Illinois, and for meritorious service was promoted to the office of Major; he was at Andersonville McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 821 a short time. William, the subject of this sketch, was in the 132nd O. N. G.; he was born April 19, 1845, and was the oldest son at home at the tune of his father's death; for several years he conducted the farm, and in 1867 came to Huntsville, where he soon engaged in business for himself; he was in the grain trade at first, and in 1872 went to Franklin Co., where he had a large wood contract, and remained there two years; he then returned to this place, and has been dealing quite largely in grain and wool, and has lately been doing a good business in lumber; he was married March 10, 1868, to Esther, daughter of James Cassil. Her father was one of the early settlers, and for many years was Justice of the Peace and Postmaster. William's marriage has been blessed with three children, but one of whom is living. Her name is Mabel, and, being of a buoyant and lively disposition, brings sunshine into their home. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and a Republican in politics. SIDNEY B. FOSTER, merchant; Huntsville; is one of the principal business men of this town, and is well and favorably known throughout the township. He was born in Orange Co., N. Y., Feb. 8, 1826, and in 1828 his father moved to what is now Rochester, where Sidney passed his early life. His father, Forris Deayre Foster, was a native of New Hampshire, and did not come to York State until several years after his marriage. He was a book-keeper, and worked several years in a printing office, and engaged for some time in the drug business. In the latter part of his life he lived with his eldest son at Grand Rapids, Mich., dying there in 1871, being 88 years old. That son was none other than the Hon. Wilder D. Foster, who died during his second term in Congress, having first been elected to till the unexpired term of Ferry, who was elected to the U. S. Senate. Sidney learned the trade of tinner, and in 1846, came to this State, working in several cities for two years, when he went into the business for himself at Sandusky. From there he came to Fremont, and in 1850 to this place, where he has since lived. He at first followed his special business, but in 1861 commenced dealing in dry goods, and has since added drug and clothing departments. In the meantime he studied law, and was admitted to the bar, but has paid most of his attention to the management of private business. He has held the office of Justice, and is now Mayor of the village. For several years he has been a strong Prohibitionist and an active worker in that cause. He was married in March, 1851, to Mary E. Dix, a native of Medina Co., where she was born Dec. 13, 1830. Their union has been blessed with nine children, six of wham are living - Harriet, Ovy, Fannie, Wilder D., Laura and Sidney; the eldest is married, and the parents and eldest children are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. JOHN S. HUNTER, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; was born Nov. 15, 1826, in what is now Noble, but was then Morgan Co., O.; his parents were natives of Westmoreland Co., Pa., his father's name being James and his mother's maiden name Martha Marshall; his father was of Irish descent and accompanied his parents to this State when near 16 years old, and after helping clear his father's farm, bought one for himself in the immediate vicinity; he always followed farming, and died there in Sept., 1866, his companion having died fourteen years previous. John lived under the parental roof until his marriage, March 14, 1850, to Mary L., daughter of Robert and Rebecca (Wallace) Barton; She was born in 1827 in Washington Co., Pa., and came to this State when 10 years of age; after his marriage John worked in a saw-mill five years, and then in a flouring hill the same length of time, in the latter of which he owned a half interest; he has since been a farmer, and in Sept., 1865, bought the place where he now lives; his marriage has been blessed with eight children-Rice V., Constance L., Ella G., Jennett R., Anna T., George C., Arthur and Martha; the eldest graduated at Wooster in 1877, and is now at the Theological Seminary at Alleghany City; he was tutor in the college at Waveland, Indiana, for two years before going to the Seminary; the two older daughters are also teachers; the whole family belong to the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Hunter is a well respected and esteemed citizen, and one of the earnest temperance men of the township. JOHN H. HARROD, postmaster; Huntsville. The history of Logan Co. would be 822 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: incomplete without the subjoined sketch of the Harrod family, who were undoubtedly the first permanent settlers of McArthur Tp. We shall first notice Thomas Harrod, who was born Feb. 10, 1760, in the "Old Dominion," and was married Jan. 13, 1785, to Jane Bowen, and the 17th of December of the same year John was born. Samuel was born Feb. 4, 1788, and June 17th, 1791, the mother died. Mr. Harrod remained unmarried until June 5, 1798, when he was united to Esther Templin, who bore him two children-Jane, born Sept. 24, 1800, and Mary, Feb. 16,1803. He was one of the first pioneers of Ohio, coming to Ross Co. in 1796, and securing a farm in the prairie below Chillicothe. He was a man of worth and influence, and was elected Captain of a military company, and usually went by the name of Captain Harrod. May 20, 1803, some hunters discovered his dead body in the field in which he had been working. He had been scalped and tomahawked, and while some blamed the Indians for the heinous act, others doubted their guilt. His younger son Samuel was married March 10, 1811, to Elizabeth Carder; she was born Oct. 16, 1795, in Fayette Co. Mr. Harrod was a private under Gen. McArthur in the war of 1812, and a few years after its close himself and brother, with their families, moved to Champaign Co. Having purchased 466 acres of military land in this township in 1820, the following year Samuel and family moved thither, and the brother came six months later, being accompanied by his two sisters. They all lived in the same house at first, but their families becoming larger and rather too numerous for one pioneer home, they divided the farm in 1832, and each went to himself. Samuel died May 5, 1852, and his loving companion Nov. 17, 1859. Both of these pioneers were highly esteemed and respected, and left an interesting family of children-Nancy, born Jan. 4, 1812, who married H. Sutherland; Rachel, born Dec. 25, 1814, and died when young; Jane, born June 21, 1817, and married to A. Patrick; Mary A., born June 21, 1822, and who married John Platt; Sanford, born April 18, 1824; Phebe A., born Dec. 27, 1827; John H., born Feb. 16, 1832, and James S., born Sept. 21, 1834. Only two of this family are living-Sanford and John H. Rachel was buried at Bloomingsburg; Phebe A. at Covington, Ind., and the ashes of the other four repose in the old "Harrod Cemetery." The subject of this sketch taught school in the winter of 1850 in what is now termed the old Dutch College, and the following year in the Harrod school. He clerked most of the time from that until 1856, when he began business on his own account. He was Railroad Agent at Huntsville, and at the same time was engaged in the mercantile and grain business, and was Postmaster under Lincoln's administration. He was Captain of Co. C., 132d O. N. G., and in 1864 was appointed Railroad Agent at Kenton, where he remained seven years, during which he was Express Agent most of the time and then filled the same position for three years in Illinois. He returned to Huntsville, and is now Postmaster. He was married Feb. 13,1855, to Emily M. Lewis, daughter of Dr. Lewis, deceased. She has borne him three children-Ida M., married to Dr. Ditzler; Willis E., who has been on the railroad in the far West for six years, and a son deceased. He has always been an energetic business roan, and is Republican in politics. DAVID B. HARROD, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville ; is one of the much respected citizens of this township, in which he was born Nov. 5, 1831 ; he is a son of John and Phebe (Carder) Harrod, and was married Feb. 19, 1855, to Sarah E. Lewis ; she was born in what is now Wyandotte Co., Nov. 1, 1831, and is a daughter of John and Sidney (Sweet) Lewis ; her father was a native of Virginia, and a blacksmith by trade. In 1820, at which time he was residing at Springfield, O., he was appointed smith for the Indian tribes at Upper Sandusky ; accepting the position, he moved there with his wife and only child, and was the second white man that came to the place to live. He remained in the Government employ for twelve years, and then relinquished the trade and settled on a farm near by, which commands a view of the spot made memorable by-the burning of Col. Crawford. He died Oct. 28,1841, and then the family moved to this county. After his marriage Mr. Harrod continued to live on the old homestead until October 1869, when himself and brother dissolved partnership, in part, and he came to where he now lives, although they still conduct much of their McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 823 business jointly. By his marriage he has four children - Frank W., Stella, Guy, and Jay. Mr. Harrod belongs to the Patrons of Husbandry and considers their principles to be for the improvement of the condition and elevation of the farm ; he joined the Methodist Episcopal Church when young, and has always been a consistent member 'is well as an ardent supporter of the Sabbath Schools, which he attends closely and is one of the teachers, most of the time ; his wife and daughter are also members of the same church. He served in the 132nd, O. N. G.; has always been identified with the Republican party. RANDOLPH HAMPTON, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the only surviving member of a family of seven children, and was born April 15, 1840, on John Warwick's plantation, near Lynchburg, Va.. His father; Lot Hampton, was born in Rockbridge Co., now West Virginia, and when only 11 years old was sold from his family to John Warwick, on whose plantation Ire lived and labored until the master's death, when he received iris liberty. This occurred in 1849, and the next year he became a member of the colony in Stokes Tp.; he was married in Virginia to Clara Harvey, and since her death, in July, 1878, he has lived with his only son- "Uncle Lot," as he is commonly called; he worked at the blacksmith's trade in Virginia, but has been a farmer since he came here. Randolph served as Corporal in Company E., 55th Mass. V. I., and was wounded at James Island, near Charleston, S. C.; he returned near the close of the war, and was married Oct.. 25, 1866, to Catherine Payne. She was born Feb. 15, 1845, in this county, and has borne three children-named Ella M., Walter Bunyan and Clara Leota. Mr. Hampton and wife are members of the Baptist Church. He has always been a Republican. DAVID HARTZLER, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; one of the most intelligent and respected citizens of this township, is surrounded by many friends; he was born Aug. 4, 1816, in Mifflin Co., Penn., the youngest of a family of ten children born to David and Mary (Yoder) Hartzler; his parents were natives of Berks Co., but came to Mifflin soon after their union, and resided there till their death, the father dying in 1856, and the mother June 25, the following year. David commenced for himself, when of age, and has always been a farmer; he came to Fairfield Co., this State, in 1841, and Dec. 2, the same year, was married to Barbara, daughter of Jacob and Nancy Yoder; she was born May 22, 1822, in Huntington Co., Penn. Mr. Hartzler lived in Fairfield Co. until the fall of 1853, when he moved to Noble Co., Ind., and there developed a farm, and after residing there twenty-one years he moved to where he now lives; he owns a farm of 160 acres of land, and is quite pleasantly situated; iris union has been blessed with eleven children, eight of whom are living. They are Joseph, Mary, Jacob, David, Jonathan, Christian, Nancy and Menno. All are married but two. Mr. Hartzler has been a minister in the Mennonite Church since 1848. His whole family are members of that denomination, and his son Jonathan is a minister. Mr. Hartzler cast his first vote for Harrison, and is now a Republican. JOHN HARROD, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the popular and intelligent farmers of this township, in which he was born April 3, 1825. His father, John Harrod, Sr., was born Dec. 17, 1785, in Virginia., and was a son of Capt. Thos. Harrod, of whom appropriate mention will be given elsewhere. He was married to Phebe Carder, who was born in Virginia. Her father served in the Revolution with credit, and while Phebe was yet in her childhood he emigrated to Kentucky, where he lived a few years and then came to this State, living successively in Ross and Fayette counties, in the latter of which she was when married. He served with credit in the war of 1812, being an officer, and his history is substantially the same as that of his brother Samuel. which is given in this work. He was kind and hospitable to the needy and deserving pioneers who came here in more indigent circumstances than himself. He died Oct. 14, 1840, and his amiable and exemplary wife March 24, 1874. The subject of this sketch was married in 1859 to Sally Johnston, a native of Pennsylvania. She died in March, 1865, leaving two children-Carrie J, and Ralph L. Mr. Harrod was married in November, 1866, to Minerva J. Donnell, who was born in Clarke Co., O. This union has been blessed with two children-Mamie E. and Addie M. He served in the 132nd O. N. 824 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES G. during the late Rebellion. He is a member of the Masonic order, and Patrons of Husbandry, in which he is warmly interested. Mr. Harrod has an interesting family, and is devoted to his home interests. His integrity and judgment may be estimated from the fact that he has been Trustee of the Township most of the time since he arrived at legal age. He is a Republican, and stands high in his party, and cast his first vote for Gen. Taylor. JAMES E. JUMP, harness and saddlery; Huntsville; was born May 2, 1819, in Queen Anne's Co., Md., but lived most of the time in the county of Kent. His father, Samuel Jump, was a native of that State, and was there married to Kesiah Busick; he served in the war of 1812, and died in 1828, having always been a tiller of the soil. The mother was left at the head of a family of six children, of whom James E. was youngest but one; she was married to David Herren, and several years later they carne to this county and settled near Huntsville, where she died in September, 1853, having borne him two children. James came here in 1838, and, after a residence of two years, be returned to his native State; he came. back, however, in the spring of 1841 and commenced working at the harness trade, which he has since followed, in this township, with good success; he was married Oct. 30, 1844, to E. S. Wright. She was born April 22, 1822, in Fauquier Co., Va., and carne here in the fall of 1837, living till marriage near East Liberty. Two children have blessed this union-Columbia and Mary E. The eldest married Rev. J. W. Rusk, and after a few years of happiness, both died, leaving a young child to the care of her parents. The younger became the wife of Joseph Graham. Both of these daughters attended the Seminary at Delaware, O. He has been Treasurer of the Corporation, and also member of the School Board. JOHN N. KERR, physician and surgeon; Huntsville; is one of the rising professional men of this township, and during his brief residence here has built up a good and growing practice; he was born in Harrison Co., O., Sept. 3, 1852; his father, John C. Kerr, is a native of that county, and owns the saw, flour and woolen mills at Unionvale, a village near Cadiz; he also owns a farm, which he superintends along with the other business; he has been Representative to the Legislature two terms, but now devotes his whole attention to his private affairs; he was married in early life to Mary Henderson, who bore him three children, and after her death be was united to Sarah Newell, a native of Washington Co., Pa.; by their union eight children were born, the subject of this sketch being the second son living; his mother died Sept. 5, 1862, and when he arrived at the proper age he attended college, first at the Hopedale Normal School, and then at Athens. He was Superintendent of the schools at Harrisville, O., one year. He studied medicine with Dr. Beadle, of Cadiz, and from there went to the Starling Medical College, where he completed the course in March, 1877, standing high in all his classes and receiving one of the prizes. Before graduating he practiced one summer at Midway, Pa., but came to Harper immediately after receiving his diploma, and in January, 1878, to this place; he was married Nov. 3, 1879, to Emma H., daughter of Samuel and Margaret (McCracken) Hover; she was born Aug.. 14, 1854, in this township; both are members of the Presbyterian Church, to which he has belonged since he was 11 years old. He is a Republican, and cast his first vote for R. B. Hayes. ALEX. C. MILLER, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville ; is the eldest child born to David and Esther (Cassell) Miller ; he was born Jan. 7, 1832, in Washington Co., Pa.; his father was a native of that State, and there learned the blacksmith's trade, but failing health induced him to take a sea voyage and he was soon engaged as a sailor ; he followed the sea for several years, and when he quit was one of the officers. He was married Feb. 2, 1831, and in 1834 moved to this county and bought a farm of partly improved land on which he lived until his death Oct. 7, 1852; and his wife July 28, 1868. Alexander went to Iowa in 1857, and was soon engaged in the saw-mill business and returned to this State in 1861, on business of a private character. While here he enlisted in Company A, 2nd O. V. I., and served for three years ; he was wounded at the battle of Hoover's Gap, and from that time was in the invalid corps. He farmed until 1869, when he became interested McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 825 in a saw-mill and followed that business until quite recently, when he rented it and moved to his Łarm. He was married Aug. 31, 1870, to Nancy M., daughter of Thomas and Naomi Alexander ; she was born in Carroll Co., and was living in Hardin Co. at the time of her marriage. Their eldest child died, and those living are-Naomi Ann, and Laura Edith. Mr. Miller and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican, and cast his first ballot for John C. Fremont. HENRY MERCHANTELL, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the only son of a family of six children, who were reared to maturity; he was born Dec. 14, 1834, in Hesse-Cassel, Germany. His father, Dietrich Merchantell, was a miller and millright by trade, and Iris father owned a fine mill property which was confiscated and destroyed during the " Seven Years' War." Henry was apprenticed to a shoemaker when 14 years of age, and served him three years, and after working for another party nearly two years, induced his parents to let him come to America, as he wished to escape service in the regular army. He landed at New Orleans in December, 1853, with only $3 in his pocket, and as soon as possible returned the price of his passage to his parents, who had paid it for him. The following March he came to Cincinnati, and stayed there only six months, when he came to Greece Co., and lived there until 1865, when he moved to where he now resides. He worked at his trade in Greece Co., and did a very good and successful business, keeping as high as eight hands during the antsy season. He worked at it, also, after coming to the farm, but has paid most of his attention to the improvement and cultivation of his land. It was a dreary and desolate looking place, and many predicted that the " Dutchman would starve to death.'' And although he knew nothing about farming, he paid strict attention to his business, and has now one of the most valuable and interesting homes in the township. He was married Sept. 11, 1856, to Martena, daughter of Samuel and Emily Thatcher. She was boru Oct. 17, 1838, in Greece Co. They have two children living -Ernily M. and Lucy .J. He is a member of the Patrons of Husbandry, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for many years has been well connected with the Sabbath School as Teacher and Superintendent. He has been unfortunate in his family relations, and a man of less will power would have broken down financially as well as morally. But he has been remarkably successful, and is now wealthy. He has always been a Republican. EBENEZER MILROY, farmer; P. O., Northwood; was born July 9, 1822, in Livingston Co., N. Y.; his father, James Milroy, was born in Scotland, and bred to the occupation of farming; he was married to Mary McJerrow, and about the year 1819 emigrated to this country with his family, which then consisted of five members, and settled in the above named county. The country was quite new, and they endured many privations, which mere incident to early settlers in that country. Ebenezer remained under the parental roof until the fall of 1847, when he started West for the purpose of securing himself a home; he traveled by water to Milwaukee, and after rambling through parts of Wisconsin and Illinois, he returned to this township, intending to spend the winter with a brother who had come here several years previously; receiving intelligence of his Lather's sickness, and desiring to reach home as soon as possible, he bought a horse and made the trip on horseback, but did not arrive until after his father's burial; Sept. 28, 1848, he was married to Mary A., daughter of David and Mary A. (Ross) Morrow; she was born in Wyoming Co., N. Y ., Sept. 20, 1846. After marriage they united with the Reformed Presbyterian Church, and then set out for Wisconsin to establish their own home: after years of patient labor and industry they accumulated a handsome property, but wishing to be more convenient to a church and school, they moved to this township, in June, 1876, and bought a farm convenient to both. Mrs. Milroy died March 2, 1877, having borne six children, the four eldest dying in 1864, all within six weeks. Those living are Ebenezer and Mary Agnes, named for their parents. Mr. Milroy has already made a vast improvement on his farm, having built a beautiful and commodious house, besides other buildings of a convenient and tasty character, and now surrounded by his family of interesting children, he can look forward to a happy future. 826 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES WILLIAM McKINNON, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the most prosperous and well-known farmers in the township, and a descendant of one of the early settlers of the State. His grandfather, Daniel McKinnon, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was there married to Nancy Harrison, a cousin of Gen. Harrison. Mr. McKinnion was a close connection of Col. Crawford's, and moved to Kentucky, where he lived a short time, and then came to what is now Clarke Co., when there were only two houses, where now is Springfield, O.; he settled on Buck's Creek, and served as Sheriff, when his territory embraced several of our present prosperous counties. His eldest son, William H. McKinnon, was there married to Kittie Foley, a native of Rockingham Co., Va., and who was brought to that county when in her childhood. William served in the war of 1812, was an officer, and helped build several block-houses in the present limits of Logan Co.; he moved here in 1839, and was ever after a resident of the county; he served as Associate Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and was also Justice of the Peace, an office be had held in Clarke Co. for twenty-four years; he died in 1861, his wife having died in 1855. Their son, who is the subject of this sketch, was born Jan. 16, 1829, and has done for himself since his majority; as a farmer and stock dealer he has been uniformly successful, and now owns over 500 acres of laud, although he has decreased his real estate nearly one-half during the last few years; he was married March 13, 1856, to Sarah, daughter of John Denny. She was boar Dec. 19, 1837, and has been a wise and efficient helpmeet to him. Their union has been blessed with eight children, six of whom are living-John D., Lucinda, Dennis, Fannie, Willie G. and Carrie. The eldest three have attended college at Delaware, O. The parents and three children are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the eldest son is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. McKinnon is identified with the Republican party. JOHNSON MORRIS, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the prominent farmers of this township, and comes of a highly respected family. His grandfather, Joseph Morris, was born in Maryland, and although raised to fanning pursuits, when yet young commenced preaching in the Old School Baptist denomination, which he followed through life, but did not relinquish farming. He was married in New Jersey to Levina Drake, and came to Kentucky soon after, where, be lived many years, and then came to Clarke Co., O., and entered a piece of Government land, on which he lived until his death, having reared a family of fourteen children. One of these, James, was there married to Martha Henry, who was born in Kentucky, and came to that county the same year as the Morris family. He always devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, and died there April 11, 1846; his companion, who yet survives him, lives on the old homestead. They were blessed with eleven children, the eldest of whom is the subject of this sketch, and was born Jan. 12, 1825. At his father's death he became the chief supporter of the family, and did nothing for himself until his marriage, Feb. 3, 1851, to Rebecca, daughter of Jesse and Polly (Morris) Dalryrnple. She was born Sept. 11, 1827, and two years after their marriage they moved to this county and bought a farm in Washington Tp., on which they lived until October, 1871, when they moved to their present home. Their union has produced four children- Martha E., James E., Mary Minerva and Allie B. The eldest is married to J. B. Collins. Mr. Morris owns over 300 acres of land. He is a member of the Agricultural Society, and is now serving his fifth year as Trustee. He served in Co. C., 132d O. N. G., and is identified with the Republican party, having cast his first vote for Gen. Taylor. S. KENTON MILLER, farmer; P. O., Bellefontaine; is a son of James and Jane (Harrod) Miller, and was born April 16,1835, in this county. He is a self-made man, and now owns over 200 acres of land, obtained by his own industry and good management; be ran a threshing machine for many years, and has dealt quite largely in stock, although he was never a shipper; has always been connected with farming, and, in 1862, he and a brother-in-law rented the James Stewart farm for three years, which proved a paying venture. He was married April 24, 1866, to Sarah E., daughter of Elias Shawver. She was born June l5, 1846, in this county. They have been blessed with four children, three McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 827 of whom are living-Udora L., William Arthur and Luther B. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He 'has always been a Democrat, and voted first for James Buchanan. Mr. Miller has a pleasant home and a fine farm on which he has erected commodious and convenient buildings. ROBERT MILLER, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the prosperous and energetic farmers of this township, and is a thorough business man; he was born March 26, 1829, in Champaign Co,; his father, James Miller, was reared in Kentucky, and came to Ohio at an early day and settled in Champaign Co.; he was married, however, in this township, to Jane Harrod. This was the first marrige in this township, and he took his wife back to Champaign Co., where they lived for several years, and about 1835 he moved to this county, which was ever after his home. He did not buy a farm, however, until some ten years later, and then bought a tract of new land in thenorthern part of Harrison Tp., on which he died in May, 1879; his wife died in 1838, and he was then married to Mrs. Amelia Thompson, who survives him. Robert commenced working out when quite young; and by the time he was of age had secured a team, and then commenced farming and running a threshing-machine, the latter of which he dropped some five years ago; he has now more than 200 acres of land here, besides Western property, the result of his industry and economy; he was married March 1, 1855, to Martha Ann, daughter of James and Dorothy (Tillis) McPherson; she was born July 3, 1834, in this county, and has borne six children, five of whom are living- James A., Alice J., Ids May, Lottie A. and John. R.; Mr. Miller is a charter member of the Patrons of Husbandry, and is identified with the Democratic party, having cast his first ballot for Franklin Pierce. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have a pleasant home, which is surrounded with many attractions, and their acquaintance and friendship, as well as that of their children, is cherished by a large number. WILLIAM McCLEARY, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville ; was born Oct. 26, 1821, in Perry Co., O., and is the youngest son of a family of seven children ; his father bore the same name, and was a native of Chester Co., Penn., where he was married to Mary Steele. He was a farmer by occupation, and went to the defense of Baltimore in 1812 ; he moved to Perry Co., this State in 1814, and bought a tract of new land on which he lived until his death, July 13, 1828, having unproved it as fast as possible. Two of the children died about the same time, and the mother cared for the others until the sons were able to conduct the farm. In the spring of 1852 William came to this county and bought the farm on which he now lives, and in the following Sep tember he and his mother moved to it. He was married Nov. 4, 1852, to Mary J. Arthur; she was born in Jefferson Co., July 12, 1833, and has helped to render their home attractive and valuable; his mother died at their house May 8, 1868. Mr. McCleary is Deacon in the United Presbyterian Church, of which both he and his wife are consistent members. He cast his first vote for James K. Polk, but has ever since been united to the opposite party . LANFORD PRATER, physician and surgeon; Huntsville; was born Aug, 1, 1840, in this county, and is a descendant of one of the early settlers; his grandfather, Newman Prater, was born in Virginia in 1745, and was there married to Nancy Robinson; he was a farmer by occupation, and although an old man, served in the war of 1812, receiving injuries from which he died; the family, which then consisted of wife and six children, soon after started for this State, moving all the way on pack-horses, and four of them were obliged to walk the whole distance; they settled permanently in this county and the sons went to work for different parties, in order to support the family; John, the youngest but one; was born Jan. 1, 1800, and has always been a tiller of the soil; he was married to Mary Pope, who was a native of North Carolina, and came to this State the same year as the Prater family, and lived five years in Highland Co. before coming here; he retired from the farm in 1876 and has since lived with his son, losing his earthly partner Feb. 4, 1880. Lanford taught school several terms in different parts of the county and served with credit in the war, being in different regiments, and having four discharges in his possession; he graduated at the Indiana 828 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES Medical College in 1871, and practiced in Grant Co., that State, until October, 1879, when he located at this place; he was married March 5, 1863, to Isabel, daughter of Joseph and Eliza Watson; she was born Dec. 18, 1844, in Tyrone, Ireland, and emigrated to this country when 8 years old; by their union six children have been born-Charles, Harriet, Charlotte, Eliza J., Mintia and Lanford; the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church; he is a member of the I. O. O. F., and has always been a Republican. SIDNEY A. PRATT, druggist; Huntsville; was born March 14, 1837, in Sheffield, Mass. His father, Martin Pratt, was a native of the above State, and was married to Harriet Beach, a native of Connecticut. He was the owner of large woolen mills, and devoted himself exclusively to that business. When Sidney was six years old the family moved to Litchfield, Conn. and in 1847 the father died leaving a family of 11 children, of whom Sidney was the seventh. From that time he has done for himself, and for several years was employed at farm labor. He worked at the carpenter's trade for three years, and then entered Colt's Armory, where he was employed at the commencement of the war. Being of a patriotic disposition, he left a paying position and entered the service. He. enlisted in Co. E, 20th Reg.., and served three years, passing through all the various hardships endured by that regiment. When discharged he went to Lewistown, Pa., and remained there one year, and then came to West Liberty in this county. He was during this time engaged in the notion trade, being mast of the time on the road. But in October, 1878, he came to Huntsville, where he has since been engaged in the drug business. He was married in January, 1865, to Melinda, daughter of John and Agnes Miller. She was born in June, 1835, in Wayne Co., O., and was living in West Liberty at the time of her marriage, where her father was engaged in the notion business. Two children have blessed this union-Mary I. B. and Harry M. The daughter is married to William J. Still, and resides in Franklin Co. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity, I. O. O. F., and Independencedependent Order of Red Men. DAVID PATTERSON, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the early settlers of this township, to which he moved more than half a century ago; he was born May 15; 1810, near Belfast, Ireland. His father, Abraham Patterson, kept store until the breaking nut of the Irish Rebellion, in which he served as Captain; be was married to Martha Gourley, who bore him nine children, and in 1818, with his entire family, emigrated to the New World, settling in Mercer Co., Pa., where they lived until 1830, when he moved to this township; he and two sons bought 500 acres of military land, which they divided equally; he was an ardent believer in the doctrines of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, and the first one of that denomination in this community; he helped build the first church, and attended Church Synod at Pittsburgh on horseback; he died in 1855, aged 89 years, his wife having died three years previous, aged 80 years. David cleared his father's farm, doing most of it himself; he would often go five miles to raisings and log-rollings, and often went thirty days during one spring; he has never left the old homestead, but brought his wife there when married, Jan. 9, 1837, to Jane, daughter of John and Betsey Wylie. She was born April 5, 1810, in Beaver Co., Pa., and came to this county in 1834. Their union was blessed with three children, one of whom is living. Believing in the abolition of slavery, he helped many of them on their way to the North, once going as far as Sandusky; he lost his earthly companion Nov. 5, 1874, and now lives with his son, A. Gourley, who serve: a short time in Company C, 132nd O. V. I., and married Sarah E. Gray, who has borne him six children. They are members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, to which Mr. Patterson has contributed financially as well as spiritually; he owns nearly 300 acres of land, which has changed from a dense forest to a valuable and beautiful property through his industry. JOHN H. RENICK, Farmer; P. O., Huntsville; was born Jan. 4, 1804, in Clarke Co., O. His father, Robert Renick, was a native of Greenbrier Co., Va., and was there married to Mary Hamilton. She was of Irish descent, and her father, William Hamilton, served as Colonel in the Revolutionary war. In the spring of 1799, Robert came to Clarke Co. this State, and raised a crop, and the following winter moved his family, which then consisted of his wife and three children, to his new home. He died there Oct. 23, 1828, and McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 829 his wife, April 4, 1814. When 16 years old, John commenced working nut, and for six years gave his earnings to his father. He was married Dec. 18, 1828, to Elizabeth Rea, who was born in Kentucky in 1806, and was brought to this State the same year. He came to this county in 1833, and bought a farm of new laud near Lewistown, nn which he lived until the spring of 1872, when he moved to where he now lives. His wife died Oct. 12, 1876, having borne him eight children, four of whom are dead. The eldest, James H., died in Cleveland, where he was engaged in the stave business, and Robert H. from disease contracted in the army. Those living are - Nancy J., Mary E., Louisa I, and John R. All are marriecl, the sun living on the old homestead. He was again. married June 28, 1877, to Mrs. Sarah Stevenson, widow of William Stevenson. She was born May 16, 1828, in Licking Co., beings daughter of Alexander King. Mr. Renick has served as Trustee and Treasurer, and he and his wife belong to the United Presbyterian Church, in which he has been Elder many years. He is a Republican and cast his first vote for Henry Clay. ROBERT A. REID, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville; ; was born Nov. 1, 1838, in Clarke Co.; his father, Robert Reid, was born in Greenbrier Co., Va., in 1791, and was of Irish descent; his parents came here a short time before his birth. In 1801, the family which then consisted of mother and eight children, moved to this State and secured a quarter section of Government laud in Clarke Co., which was cleared and improved by the united labor of the sons. Robert, Sr., served in the war of 1812, and was soon after married to Miss Snodgrass. He bought a tract of new land and commenced carving out a fortune for himself and family, but death robbed him of his companion, and a few years later of his only daughter, Sarah Jane, who had then reached maturity. He afterwards was united to Louisa Rea, who was born in that county in 1809. In 1853 he moved to this county and bought 480 acres of land near Lewistown, a part of the section given to James McPherson by the Government, according to their treaty with the Indians who wished to reward him for serving them ; he lived on the farm until the spring of 1865, when he moved to where the sons now live, having acquired all his property by his own exertions and wishing to retire from active labor. He died July 15, the same year, and his faithful wife some five years later. They reared four sons-William J., John T., Robert A., and Joseph G.; all but John were in Company B, 88th, O. V. I., and served nearly three years ; the eldest son died in 1867, and the other sons are conducting the farm jointly. Robert was married June 1, 1876, to Josephine Ditzler, daughter of one of Huntsville's must respected physicians ; she was born April 18, 1850, and has borne two children-Rea D., and Ivo. Politically the family have always been Democratic, although they supported Lincoln during the war. JOHN B. RUDE, mill; Huntsville; is the youngest of a family of seven children, and was born Jan. 11, 1831, in Hamilton Co., O. His father was born in New Jersey, and when 11 years old he came to Cincinnati, with his parents,, the place then consisting of a few rude houses, being nothing more than a military post. He learned the trade of shoemaker, and for many years a large business in the boot and shoe trade. Failing health induced him to relinquish a successful business for that of farming, and he settled in that county, where he died in 1864. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary Laughlin, and a native of that county, died in 1859. John worked at the carpenters' trade two nears, and when of age went to the far West. He was in Mexico, Oregon and California about tour years, but spent most of that time in the latter State, where he was engaged in mining. He then returned to his native house and was married to Rebecca A. Brown. He moved to Darke Co. in the spring of 1860, and remained there four years, working at his trade most of the time; he has since been engaged in the mill and lumber trade in several different counties, and located at this place in 1866, where he has since lived. His wife died soon after he came here, having borne five children, three of whom are living-Jennie, Anna and Laura. The eldest is married to Morgan Solomon, and lives at Springfield. He was married Jan. 2, 1879, to Anna E. Richardson. He has been quite successful in business, and has done much toward the improvement of this town. He is a member of the Methodist 830 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Episcopal Church, and his wife of the United Presbyterian Church. He has always been a Democrat. ROBERT S. REED, retired; Huntsville; was born Feb. 16, 1821, in Union Co. O.; his father, Thomas Reed, was born and raised in York Co., Penn., and was there married to a Miss Robinson; he was a cooper by trade, and soon after his marriage moved to this State, and settled in the above named county. His wife died, and he was united to Jane Snodgrass, and secured for this marriage the first marriage license ever issued in Union Co., as it had just been organized. She has three brothers that have celebrated their golden weddings, and have always lived in Union Co. Mrs. Reed died near 1827, leaving five children, of whom Robert S. was the eldest. Mr. Reed was afterwards married to Hannah Graham, a native of York Co., Penn., and near 1830 moved to Greene Co. He died April 14,1858, in this county, to which he had removed some years previous. Robert was apprenticed to a wool manufacturer when in his 17th year, and remained with him over three years, learning to "full cloth" while there. He then went to Springfield and worked some four years. March 4, 1845, he came to this county and bought a saw mill, which he conducted for eight years, and then went to farming. He has developed a fine farm from the dense forest, and his health becoming quite poor, he moved to Huntsville in 1876, to obtain quiet and rest, although he has performed no hard labor in the last twelve years. His marriage was solemnized Nov.13, 1845, the other party being Martha, a daughter of George and Mary (Moore) Hoover; she was born May 10, 1822, and has borne seven children, three of whom are living-Mary J., wife of D. G. Wallace; George C. and Robert Gill. Mr. Reed has been connected with township offices. The whole family belong to the United Presbyterian Church, in which he is Elder, and held the office of Deacon some fifteen years before he was elected Elder. He has so far been a Republican. SAMUEL G. ROGERS, farmer; P. O., Northwood; was born June 14, 1817, in Highland Co., O. His father, known as Col. Thomas Ropers, was born in Loudoun Co., Va., and when 7 years old the family moved to Kentucky; when 18 years of age he and a brother came to this State, and the same spring put out a crop. They helped erect the third log cabin in Chillicothe, and the year following their arrival the rest. of the fancily moved to this State and settled in Ross Co., on the farm on which the State Mills were built. Thomas was there married to Polly McCoy, and soon after moved to Highland Co., where his father had bought a large tract of land; by years of patient toil he at length cleared up a handsome home from the wild and primitive forest; he served as a Colonel in the war of 1812, and surrendered with Hull at Detroit; be died at Greenfield in June, 1875, in his 93rd year, having reared twelve children to maturity. One son, William, was a missionary to India ten years, and three others served in the late war. Samuel, the subject of this sketch, lived under the parental roof until his marriage, in 1840, to Ann Eliza Ghormley, who was born in Fayette Co. in 1823. In April, 1844, he moved to Stokes Tp:, in this county, and bought a small tract of slightly improved land; he kept adding to it until Oct. 1, 1863, when he moved to where he now lives; he cleared nearly 100 acres there, and cast the first Whig vote in that township; he has an interesting family of children-Maggie N., William C., David P., Levinia J., Robert Shepherd, Thomas A., Oscar, Mary A. and Clarence. Three of these are married. Oscar was shot accidentally a few years ago. The parents and children are members of the United Presbyterian Church. He cast his first Presidential ballot for Harrison, and is now a Republican. RACHEL SHELBY, Huntsville. The history of this county would be incomplete without mention being made of the Shelby family, who are well known throughout the whole county. The head of the family, John, but better known as Judge Shelby, was born in Pennsylvania, Aug. 9, 1783, and was of Welsh descent; his father, David Shelby, served with credit in the Revolutionary War, and in 1794 moved to Pickaway Co., O., and followed farming; he represented the people of that district in the Legislature for eighteen years, being in the Senate most of the time. John lived at home until his marriage in 1806 to Elenor Morris, who was born Aug. 2, 1786, in Pennsylvania, and came to this State in 1795; in the spring of 1809 he came to McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 831 this county and bought a farm, and having put out a crop he returned and brought his wife and two small children to his new home; he traded that for a farm near Lewistown, and when he had improved it he owned one of the best stock farms' in this county; he sold it, however, in 1854, and moved to this place and bought a small tract of land, as he wished for a retired life; he died Oct. 1, 1862, and Logan Co. thus lost one of her honored and respected citizens; he had served in the Legislature, being several terms in each branch and was there at the same time his father represented Pickaway Co.; for many years he served as Associate Judge, and was a Democrat of the most pronounced character; Ire was the Father of a family of seven children, only two of whom are living, the eldest son having been in Iowa many years, and Rachel, the fifth in number, is living with and taking care of her aged mother; she was horn in this county Dec. 14, 1820; the family have always been identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. SAMUEL STEWART, mill; Huntsville; is one of the most widely known and universitysally respected citizens of this township; he is a son of James and Mary (Dallass) Stewart, anti was born Dec. 23, 1814, in County Tyrone, Ireland; his father was a farmer by occupation,, and in 1820, with his family, which then consisted of seven persons, emigrated to America and settled in Champaign Co., O. In the spring of 1830 he moved to this county, where he had previously bought 625 acres of military land, mostly prairie, and all in this township; he paid personal attention to the farm during his life-time, although he built the well known " Stewart's mill," in 1836, but had no knowledge of the mill business and did not learn it; he died in 1856, and his companion died several years later. Samuel worked on the farm until the mill was built, when he entered it and has been connected therewith ever since, except a short time that it was owned by Jacob Austine. In 1873 be bought the mill built by Jonathan Woodward, and ever since he and his two youngest sons have conducted them, doing a large custom trade besides filling their many wholesale orders. He owns a large farm, also, which is conducted by the two oldest sons; he was married in 1839 to Nancy Liggitt, who died nearly one year thereafter, and in 1845 he was united to Clarissa Stevenson, at Kenton. She died in 1846, having borne one child, Cynthia A., now the wife of John M. McCracken; he was afterward united to Miss Nancy King, daughter of Alexander King; she died Dec. 4, 18 7 8, leaving six children - James D., William A., John K., Samuel L., Mary C. and Flora M.; William and Flora are married. Mr. Stewart is a member of the united Presbyterian Church, in which he is a Deacon. . He is a Republican, and cast his first ballot for Henry Clay. THOMAS SCOTT, Jr., farmer; P. O., Northwood; among the first pioneers of this township, we take pleasure in mentioning the Scott family, as among the prominent and well known. The head of the family was Thomas Scott, Sr., who was a native of Maryland, and from there moved to Pennsylvania. residing successively in three different counties, and in 1810 moved to Licking Co., O., where the subject of this sketch was born, March 15, 1812. In August. 1822, the family moved to this township, and settled in Cherokee, moving into a rude and hastily constructed cabin, and soon after their arrival, Samuel Scott, Thomas's father, died, being the first white man to die in this township. The spring following their arrival the township was organized, and the first election held, there being only thirteen voters. Mr. Scott was unanimously chosen Justice; an office he held about twenty years. About the year 1841 he moved to Allen Co., and lived there until his death, Feb. 18, 1852, except a short time that he returned to this county. Thomas, Jr., received most of his education before he came to this county, as there were no schools for several years after his arrival; the settlement being too sparse to support a school. He received a thorough drilling on the farm, however, and at his mother's death, when he was 17 years old, he commenced working out. Having a piece of new land, and wishing to improve it, he first secured a helpmeet in the person of Agnes, daughter of Abraham and Martha Patterson. Their marriage occurred Dec. 23, 1830, and both are still living. They have four children-Martha J., Thomas M., Sarah A. and Abraham P. Three of these are married, the youngest farming on the homestead. Both sons were in the service, and the 832 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES parents and three youngest children are members of the United Presbyterian Church. He is the discoverer of what is known as the "Scott" wheat, commencing with three heads, that he found while reaping, and by care he produced the justly celebrated variety that bears his name. He was a Whig in early life, but after the election of Harrison voted the Free Soil ticket, until the organization of the Republican party. He often assisted runaway slaves on their way to Canada; he now possesses the first clock ever brought to this township; it belonged to his father. GEORGE SHICK, farmer ; P. O., Bellefontaine; ; is the eldest of a family of ten children and was born July 2, 1830, in Carroll Co.; his father, William Shick, was born in Loudoun Co., Va., in 1806 and is a child of cue of the heroes of the war of 1812. About the year 1814 the family, which then consisted of six souls, came to Carroll Co., in a wagon and entered a piece of Military land. William was there married to Catharine Shawver, one of a family of fourteen children, all of whom grew to maturity and were married. They lived in that county until 1836, when they moved to where they now live, in Lake Tp., and bought a quarter section of land, the only improvement being a partly built cabin. The privations were not few, and George, being the eldest son, was compelled to work when young, and therefore, received only a meager education; his parents are both living, having enjoyed more than a half century's companionship. On reaching maturity he commenced working at the carpenter's trade and followed it seven years, when he commenced farming, but during this time he has conducted a saw-mill for twenty-two years, as well as the farm. He has been quite successful in business, now owning nearly 350 acres of land, nearly one-third of which he has cleared himself ; he was married March 19, 1857, in Champaign Co., to Mary Apple ; she was born there Feb. 17, 1838, and is a daughter of Solomon and Catharine Apple, who came there at an early day and secured a farm of military land, which is yet in the family's possession. One child died and two are living-Catharine and Margaret A. Both he and his wife joined the Lutheran Church before their marriage. He has always been a Democrat. JOHN M. TEN EYCK, physician and surgeon; Huutsville; is the youngest but one of a family of nine children, and was born Jan.. 25, 1849, in Wayne Co., Ind. His father, also named John, was a native of New Jersey, and was a veterinary surgeon by profession, but farmed some occasionally ; from there lye went to Montgomery Co., O., and then to the county before mentioned, where he was married to Louisa Pegg, a native of North Carolina, then residing in Indiana; he died in 1857, and his wife in 1878. John commenced reading medicine with Drs. Pennington and Sweney, of Milton, Ind., in 1869, and graduated at the Eclectic Medical College at Cincinnati in 1874; he practiced at Richland a short time, and in 1875 came to Huntsville, where he has a good and increasing practice; he was married Aug. 5, 1876, to Mary, daughter of James and Clarissa. (Cromer) Funk. She was born Jan. 18, 1853, in Ross Co., O. He has always been a Republican, and cast his first vote for U. . S. Grant. WILLIAM W. TEMPLTON, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the third of a family of six children, and was born Sept. 21, 1828, in Perry Co., Ohio; his father. Alexander Templeton, was born in Union Co., Pa., and was married to Mary A. Wallace, of Brooke Co., Va.; he was farmer by occupation, and came direct to Perry Co., when married. In 1831 he moved to this county, and kept a store in Bellefontaine one year, when he moved to Roundhead, in Hardin Co., and lived there until his death, in 1864; he was there engaged in the mercantile business, and also in farming; he was one of the first members of the Associate Presbyterian Church, organized at Bellefontaine, arrd held the office of Elder there, and also at Roundhead, after an organization was effected at that place. William received a good common school education, which he completed at Franklin College, New Athens, Uhio, and then took the course at the Theological Seminary, at Xenia, Ohio, from which be emerged in 1856; he was married May 12, 1859, to Mary, daughter of Rev. James Wallace; she was born in this county, Aug. 16, 1834, and has been a loving and faithful helpmeet to him. They have lived in this township since marriage, except a few years spent in Hardin Co. Both are McARTHUR TOWNSHIP. - 833 members of the United Presbyterian Church, in which he is Elder. Mr. Templeton has served as Justice of the Peace, and has so far been identified with the Republican party. He cast his first Presidential vote for John P. Hale. DANIEL WONDERS, farmer; P. O., Bellefontaine; is one of the most successful and well-known farmers in the county, and was born Sept. 10, 1829, in York Co., Pa.; he is a son of Jacob and Christiana (Lease) Wonders, both of whom were born in that county; his father followed teaming in early life, and was detailed as a teamster in the war of 1812; after his marriage, however, he went to farming, and in 1836, wooed to this county, where he resided eighteen months, and then went back to Venango Co., Pa., where his father had bought a large tract of land for the purpose of giving each of his children a farm. Jacob sold his in 1844, and carne to this county and settled in Zane Tp., where he died in 1877, and his wife one year previous. Daniel went to the blacksmiths' trade when 19 years old, and after an apprenticeship of two years returned to his father's, where he worked at the trade and on the farm-for two years, and then commenced dealing in stock; he followed that, together with farming, with the best of success for many years, and by his own exertions has accumulated a handsome property, owning two good farm:, and has built good and substantial buildings; he has not dealt in stock of late years, preferring a quieter life; he was married Sept. 13, 1853, to Elizabeth, daughter of Richard M. and Margaret (Henry) Dickinson; she was born April 5, 1826, in this county, her parents being among the first settlers of the county, and are both yet living, having been married sixty-two years. Daniel's marriage has been blessed with three children - Margaret M., George M. and Mary C.; the eldest is married to Wallace Jameson. He has beet a member of the Agricultural Society for nine years, and he and wife and two eldest children are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church; he was a Democrat in early life, but has been a Republican since the organization of that party. JANE WRIGHT, Huntsville; is the eldest of a family of 13 children, and was born April 28, 1798, in Kentucky. Her father, Thomas Irwin, was a native of Pennsylvania, and went from there to Kentucky, where he was married to Mary Thompson. In 1809 he carne to this State and settled in Champaign Co. He served as a guard at McPherson's Blockhouse during the war of 1812, and died near Bellefontaine. Jane was early inured to hard labor, and worked in a dairy eleven years. She was married to Joseph T. Wright March 1, 1827. He was a son of William and Jane Wright, and was born June 10, 1803, in Adams Co., O. After marriage they lived in Champaign Co. until 1835, when they bought a quarter section of land near Quincy, for $300, and on Christmas moved on their farm, the house having no door, window, chimney or chinking. In this they lived until the following summer, when it was made more comfortable. Mrs. Wright assisted her husband in the duties of the farm, and for many years took in weaving. In 1858 they moved to Quincy, and in January, 1865, sold their property and came to Northwood, where he died Sept. 18, 1868. Their union was blessed with two children-Mary J. and William. Both have taught school, the son graduating at Oxford College, and studied theology there, receiving license to preach in 1853. He was principal of the schools at Xenia, and at Richmond, Ind., one year each. He died in March, 1873, at Grand Rapids, O., where he was teaching school and preaching. The whole family became identified with the United Presbyterian Church many years ago, Mr. Wright serving as Elder about 25 years. DAVID G. WALLACE, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville ; is a son of Rev. James Wallace, deceased, and was born July 3, 1839, in this township ; his father was born in York Co., Pa., Nov. 10, 1801, and was son of David and Mary Wallace ; he was reared to the occupation of farming, but having embraced religion in early life, he determined to devote his life to the ministry, and after attending school at various places he graduated at Jefferson College, Cannonsburgh, Pa., in 1827; he received license to preach in 1830, and his first appointments were embraced in the, Carolinas. In 1832 he was called to the Darby and Bellefontaine congregations, and as a majority of the members lived in the vicinity of Cherokee, he bought a tract of new land near by which he cleared and improved, besides 834 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: attending to his professional duties. His latter years were devoted especially to the Huntsville charge, from which he withdrew in 1861. He was married Sept. 30, 1833, to Jane Pollock, of Washington Co., Pa.; she died Sept. 14, 1863, having borne five children, the eldest of whom, William P., was fatally wounded at Knoxville, Tenn., and is sleeping in a Southern cemetery. Mr. Wallace was married in 1866 to Mrs. Mary A. McKee and died Nov. 30, 1878. David is living on a part of the old homestead, and has always been a tiller of the soil ; he served in the 132nd, O. N. G:, and was married Nor. 1, 1869, to Mary J., daughter of Robert S. and and Martha (Hover) Reed ; she was born in this county April 4, 1847. Their union has produced six children-Nellie L, William R., James T., Martha J., Edward R., and Salina A. Both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church, of which he is Deacon. He has always been a Republican. MARY A. WATSON, Huntsville; was born July 7, 1817, in Hartford Co., Md.; her father, John W. Crawford, was a native of that county, and was there married to Rebecca Ropers; he was a blacksmith by trade, and in 1824 moved to this State and located in Belmont Co., and engaged in farming. Some ten years later be came to this county and secured a partly developed farm in the southeast part of this township, on which he lived until his death, April 14, 1861. Mary A. was married April 14, 1840, to William W. Watson, one of the energetic pioneer farmers of this county; be was born Jan. 13, 1813, in Favette Co.; his parents, William and Ruth Watson, were natives of the Emerald Isle, and came to this country in 1804; lived a short time in Pittsburgh, and then corning to Favette Co., in this State. In 1826, with his family, he came to this township, and secured a quarter-section of military land, which he developed as early as possible, but being unused to such business, the heavy part of it devolved on the son. After his marriage, William settled on a portion of the old homestead, and, at his father's death, he bought out the other heirs and secured the whole property, which had become dear to .him through old associations. He died Dec. 15, 1876; his wife still survives him. Their happy union was blessed with six children - the youngest daughter, Mary E., died Aug. 21, 1876. Those living are, Caroline, who was married April 24, 1860, to Elisha Lockhart, and after his death to Robert W. Jordan, Feb. 12, 1874; John C. married March 25, 1874, to Mantie E. Elder; she died April l5, 1878, and June 17, 1880, he was united to Callie Weiser; Rebecca C. is still living with her mother; W. Parker, who united his fortunes with those of Hattie Foster Dec. 31, 1874, and Georgiana, who celebrated her nuptials with Harry Whitworth, April 9, 1878. JONATHAN WOODWARD, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the most prominent and well-known men in this township, and has contributed as much towards its rapid advancement as any person now living; he was born May 16, 1801, in Chester Co., Pa., and his ancestors were among the early settlers of the "Keystone" State, buying their land of Penn's agents. His father, w hose given name was George, was a miller by trade, and was married to Miss Alice Buffington, who was born on the day the memorable battle of Brandywine was fought, her .parents living within a few miles of the scene of action. Mr. Woodward served a short time in the war of 1812, and for many years conducted his business in Delaware, and also in Pennsylvania; in 1833 he moved to this State, and located in Champaign Co., where he died in 1842, and his companion in 1851. Jonathan learned the trade of a millwright in early life, and worked in different parts of York State, as well as in the city of New York; he also followed this business along the Schuylkill and Brandywine rivers, and in a mill on the latter stream learned the trade of miller; in 1835 he came to Champaign Co. and rented a mill, and the next year bought 27 acres of the Mahin heirs in this township; its improvements were a log cabin and a badly wrecked saw mill, which be "fixed up" as speedily as possible, and commenced sawing lumber for the purpose of erecting a grist mill; this he completed, and commenced running it May 1, 1839, and he has the honor of packing the first barrel of flour in this township, although his was the third mill erected; in 1866 he sold his mill, and has since resided in the suburbs of Huntsville, where he has bought a farm; he was married in 1834 to Mrs. Sarah Robinson, PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. - 835 widow of John J. Robinson. She was born Aug. 25, 1804, in the State of Delaware, her father being Holton Yarnall; she had two children when married to Mr. Woodward, one of whom is living-the widow of the late Dr. Lawson, a professor in the Cincinnati Medical College. This happy union has been blessed with four children. Those living are-Charles C., a miller at Westminster, O.; George, who is a physician at Oak Harbor, in Ottawa Co., O., and Sarah A., wife of James A. Coulter, of Huntsville. Mr. Woodward is a Democrat in politics. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE)