RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 797 RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. DAVID ALEXANDER, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is one of the prominent and influential farmers of this township. He was born Jan. 23, 1825, in Preble Co. His father, John Alexander, was born in Ireland, where he learned blacksmithing, and soon after his marriage to Jane Creelman started for the New World. He lived a short time in Canada, and from there came to Preble Co., and worked at his trade and on the farm till 1834, when he moved to Indiana, and died there Aug. 29, 1878. When 6 years old David went to live with his uncle, James Wright, who had no children, and ever after made his home with him. His uncle moved to this county when David was 16 years old, and settled on the farm on which he lived till his death. His uncle gave him 100 acres of land when of age, and at his death he became possessor of all the real estate. He now owns 300 acres of good land, forming one of the most valuable and attractive homes in the township. He was married Nov. 8, 1855, to Susannah J., daughter of Hugh and Sarah H. Hervey; she was born April 14, 1835, in Pittsburgh, Pa., and was brought to this State during her childhood, living most of the time in Licking Co. Their union has been blessed with eight children, six of whom are living-Sarah J., Nancy W., Martha M., Anna M., Rosanna E. and Ellen L. The three eldest have attended Geneva College. David attended there when a young man, and was a member of their first literary society. He has always been interested in the success of the school, and was a member of the executive board for many years. He joined the R. P. Church in early life, and still belongs, as do his wife and three oldest children. GEORGE R. ARCHER, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is one of the most courteous and promising young farmers of this township, and is thoroughly. respected by every one. He is the second son of John Archer, who was born in Hull, England, Dec. 7, 1815, and came to this country when 8 years old. His father had come here three years previously, and was followed by the wife and five children. They settled in Massachusetts, where John worked in a factory, and when 16 years old he learned the blacksmith trade. He worked in an ax factory sometime, and in 1837 he came to Xenia, O. He was married Oct. 15, 1840, to Lydia Baldwin, who was born in Greene Co., June 26, 1816. They lived in Greene Co. till 1849, with the exception of a few years that they were in Madison Co. In that year they moved to a farm near Bellefontaine, on which they remained ten years, and have since resided in this town ship. He died Feb. 23, 1877. By their 798 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: marriage seven children were born-Mary A., Sarah L., Emily W., Joseph B., George R., John Newton and Lydia Ellen. Mary and Joseph are dead, the latter being killed in a railroad accident on the "Bee Line" road Jan 6, 1880. He had been fireman on the road nearly eight years, and stood high in the estimation of his employers, and held a high office in the Masonic Order, of which he was a faithful and valued member, and to which both his brothers belong, George A. being the Worshipful Master. MILTON L. ANDERSON, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is the youngest son of a family of eight children, and was born May 25, 1817, in Fayette Co., O.; his father, Gershom Anderson, was born in Virginia, and with the rest of the family moved to Ohio during his boy rood; they settled in Ross Co., when Chillicothe consisted of a few rude cabins, and were intimate friends of Gov. Tiffin; his father was a wheelwright by trade, and also made chairs and spinning wheels; he was an officer in the war of 1812, and lived in Ross Co. till 1837, except a short time that he lived in Fayette Co.; he was married to Mary Jamison, a native of Kentucky, whose parents were opposed to slaver, and moved to this state to get beyond its influence; she died Oct. 2, 1836, and the next year he moved to Northwood, this county, and engaged in "farming; Milton came here with his father and kept store at Northwood for several ,years; he afterwards taught school, and in 1846 came to Belle Centre and sold goods for Pollock & Johnson for two years, when he married Nancy Steele, daughter of Adam and Rachel Steele; she was born in Pennsylvania in 1826, and soon after her parents moved to Fayette Co.; Milton settled on a farm one mile east of Belle Centre, on which he lived till 1864, when he moved to his present home. He was an officer in a company of minute men who went to the defense of Cincinnati in 1862. His wife died Oct. 17, 1863, leaving six children - Lanvere P., Alice O., Agnes M., Luella R., Robert S. and Dora E.; the oldest three are married. He was then married to Martha A., widow of Merrit Jamison; she was born Oct. 22, 1822, in Fayette Co.; he was County Commissioner six years. and candidate for the Legislature on the Abolition ticket; he held local offices, voted for James G. Birney for President, and is an advocate of progressive reform; the whole family belong to the M. E. Church, which he joined in 1828; he has been a subscriber to the Christian Advocate since 1832. JOHN BICKHAM, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the prominent farmers of this township ; he was born May 26, 1841, in McArthur Tp., and has always been a resident of this county. His father, Robert Bickham, was born May 17, 1805, in Bourbon Co., Ky., and served under Gen. Wayne as a spy during the Indian troubles. He came to this county at a very early day, and helped his parents to clear and improve a farm near where Huntsville now stands. He was married to Mary Prater, of West Liberty, who was brought there by her parents when she was 5 years old ;they lived on leased and rented farms for several years, and soon as able bought a farm of new land in this town ship, on which they ever alter lived. She died Nov. 20, 1865, and he was afterwards united to Elizabeth Bennett, of this county; he died June 20, 1879. John commenced for himself when of age, and soon after enlisted in Company I, 96th Reg., O. V. I., and served nearly three years ; he was in nine battles, and on receiving his discharge returned to this county, where he has since been a farmer., He was married Nov. 3, 1865, to Kate H. Bennett, daughter of James and Dolly Bennett; she was born April 17, 1844, in this county. Seven children have blessed their union-Mary E., Dolly E., James R., John R.. Emanuel B., Benjamin L., and Fannie A. Both he and wife are members of the Disciple Church ; he is a member of the Patrons of Husbandry, and has held every office but Secretary ; has always been a Republican and a member of the County Central Committee for fifteen years. GUILFORD CARNES, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is one of the enterprising and reliable farmers of this township; he was born Sept. 10,1833, in Madison Co., O. His father, Benjamin W. Carnes; was born and raised in Cincinnati, where be learned the trade of a hatter; when of age he commenced doing for himself, and for two years worked as a journeyman; he then married Sarah McCoy, of Fayette Co., and had a shop there a short time, RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 799 when he moved to Madison Co., and worked at his trade until about 1845, and was ever after a farmer; he died March 12, 1875, his wife having died Oct. 22, 1857. Guilford worked out from the time he was 16 until his marriage-Feb. 1, 1859 - to Arminta A., daughter of Elijah D. and Cellists (Stamats) Zimmerman. She was born July 1, 1839, in Hardin Co. They lived in Auglaize Co. until 1865, when he moved to where he now lives; it was all forest, and he has now over 70 acres of cleared land, and good improvements for a new farm. Their union has been blessed with four children, the eldest and youngest of whom are dead; the living are Edgar E., and Byron R. He owns 150 acres of land, and town property at Belle Centre. Has always been a Republican. JAMES D. CAMPBELL, hardware; Belle Centre; is one of the most enterprising and accommodating business men in the township. He is the second of a family of seven children, and was born June 19, 1847, in York Co., Penn. His parents were natives of that county; his father's name is William, and his mother's maiden name was Jane A. Creswell. They lived there till 1851, when they moved to this State; lived in Highland Co. one year, and from there came to Hardin Co., where they now live, on a farm. James commenced clerking in a store when 16 years old; was one year at Roundhead, and then came to Belle Centre, and for several years clerked in the store of W. & A. C. Ramsey. He remained in the store and warehouse till the fill of 1872, when he went into business for himself. He keeps all kinds of hardware, and sewing machines, and has been Express Agent since Aug. 1, 1875. He has been Township Clerk, and is a member of the Masonic Order, and has always been a Democrat. Oct. 2, 1872, he was married to Mary E. Smith, daughter of John and Mary (Miller) Smith. She was born in this county to 1852. By this union four children here been born-Hugh M., Lacha L, Carl C. and Mark F. WILLIAM L. COLMERY, limekiln and stone quarry; Belle Center; is the youngest member and only son of a family of six children but two of whom are living, and was born Oct. 10, 1848, in Morrow Co., O. His parents were natives of Washington Co., Penn.; his father's name was John and his mother's maiden name was Rebecca Murdock. They lived in Washington Co. several veers after marriage and then emigrated to Morrow Co., O., where they ever after lived, except for two years they lived in Allegheny City, Pa. He bought a farm of military land in Canaan Tp:, which he kept improving till his death, at the ripe old age of 75. William commenced doing for himself at his father's death, and has made farming his chief occupation till this year. In 1876 he moved to Logan Co., and bought the farm on which he now lives. For four years he had the stone quarry and limekiln conducted by George Fenn while he attended the farm, but he is now superintending the entire business. He has a good common school education, having finished his school life at the Ohio Central College at Iberia. His household affairs are conducted by his only sister, and they are both members of the Presbyterian Church, to which denomination their parents belonged. His father was Elder in the church for nearly thirty years. HENRY M. CLINE, Justice of the Peace and Notary Public; Belle Centre; was born March 12, 1834, in Cleveland. His father, Joseph Cline, was born Jun. 14, 1790, in Winchester, Va., and his mother was born exactly ten years later at the same place, her maiden name being Leah Secrest. His father was a wheelwright by trade, and lived in Guernsey Co., O., when he was married. He lived in Cleveland six ,years, and in 1834 he moved to Auglaize Co., and entered a farm of Government land where the village of New Hampshire now stands. Both he and wife died near there in 1856. Henry was married Oct. 23, 1853, to Martha .T., daughter of James and Nancy Mahin. She was born Nov. 4, 1834, in Wayne Tp., Auglaize Co., and her father was the first Justice of the Peace in that township. One year after marriage he moved to Iowa, where he farmed four years and then returned to this State and bought part of the old homestead. At the breaking-out of the war he enlisted in Co. B, 45th Regiment, O. V. I., and was captured in his second engagement. He was a prisoner for two years, being at Andersonville most of the time, and he alone lived through, out of twenty-seven captured from his company. He came }come in poor health, and commenced keeping grocery at 800 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES New Hampshire; here he lived till 1875, when he moved to Belle Centre. He dealt in grain one year and then engaged in the mercantile business. He is one of the many men who were unable to stand the financial crisis, and in 1878 he made an assignment. His creditors hall such faith in his integrity that he was permitted to settle up the business; he has been elected Justice of the Peace, and held that office in Auglaize Co.; he received the nomination by the Republican party, for Sheriff, in the spring of 1880, over seven other aspirants; his wife died April 30, 1867, leaving five children-Sarah D., Ella, Volney H., Ettie B. and Elizabeth. Feb. 13, 1868 he was married to Margaret A., daughter of John and Eliza Conley: she was born May 25, 1844, in Auglaize Co., and has borne him four children, George H., Charles H., Blanche and Clara. SAMUEL COVINGTON, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the most intelligent and respected citizens in this township, and was born Sept. 22, 1819, in this county. His father, Henry Covington, was born in Maryland, and soon after his birth the family moved to Delaware, where they remained till he was 17 years old, and then came to Montgomery Co., Ohio. He served in the war of 1812, and in January 1815 was married to Anna Kavanagh, in Champaign Co. She was born in Kentucky, and her parents moved to this State in 1805. After his marriage Henry lived a short time in this county, and then went back to Champaign Go., and lived there until 1832, when he returned, and bought a farm near Lewiston. He soon after traded property with Judge Shelby, receiving a farm in Liberty Tp., on which he lived till his death, in 1850. Samuel lived under the parental roof until his marriage, Jan. 27, 1842; to Ruth Watson. She died Jan. 7, 1849, leaving four children , two of whom are living-Perry D. and William H. The eldest is practicing medicine in Bellefontaine, and the youngest is living on the homestead. Feb. 7, 1850, he united fortunes with Margaret Beacom. She died Dec. 21, 1850, leaving an infant child Sarah A. He was again married March 31, 1853, to Sarah Watson. By this union six children have been horn; three are living - Eliza M., Fanny B. and Laura A. He owns over two hundred acres of land, 160 of which he himself has cleared; this being the third farm he has thus improved. He was once a Democrat, but is now a Prohibitionist. LYMAN DOW, physician and surgeon; Belle Centre; is one of the best known sod thoroughly respected men in this township, although he has been among us but a few years; he was born in this county Aug. 21, 1843. His father, Peter Dow, was born in Scotland, and emigrated to this country when 12 years of age; he was married to Sally Campbell, a native of Washington Co., O., and always followed farming until 1855, when he moved to Bellefontaine; he was engaged in the drug business for some time, but is now living a retired life; he is one of the School Examiners for this county, and has held that position many years. Lyman commenced clerking in the drug store in 1861, and at the same time studied medicine; he graduated at the Cincinnati Medical College in March, 1865, and immediately enlisted in the U. S. N. as assistant surgeon; at the close of the war he commenced practicing in Belle Centre, and remained two years, when he engaged in the drug business at Bellefontaine, and then at Wooster; he returned to this place in 1875, and has built up a good practice, he was married May 17, 1866, to Martha J., daughter of T. B. and Hannah McCracken, of Urbana. Their union has been blessed with six children-James A., Jessie E., Samuel W., Nellie A., Charles T. and Sallie H. Both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. He has always been a Republican. LEWIS T. EMERY, farmer; P. O., New Richland; is one of the most promising and energetic young farmers of this township, and was born Dec. 11, 1850, in Lancaster Co., Pa. His father, James Emery, was born in that county and married Eliza A. Eagle, a native of Chester Co. Farming has been his only occupation, and in March 1854, he moved to this county, settling in Harrison Tp., here he lived until 1878, and has since been in Bellefontaine. He owns several farms in this county, which are conducted by his sons, His wife died Sept. 20, 1867, and he has since married Mary J. Arrowsmith. Lewis graduated at Eastman's Business College March 22, 1872, and refused several business positions for the more congenial pursuit of farming. RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 801 Lewis was married Oct. 7, 1875, to Columbia A., daughter of Jacob and Eliza (Laney) Horn. She was born Aug. 11, 1856, in this county. Their union has been blessed with one child, Nellie E., born Aug. 25, 1879. He and his brother own the farm on which he lives, and this he manages as well as the farm adjoining which belongs to his father. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and he also belongs to the Knights of Pythias, Independent Order of Red Men, Commercial Council and Patrons of Husbandry. He has always been a Republican. JAMES K. ELDER, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the prominent and rising young farmers of Richland Township, and is a son of Robert J. and Martha (Keers) Elder. He was born April 27, 1846, in McArthur Tp., and has always been a resident of this county. His father's a son of Abraham Elder, Sr., mentioned elsewhere in this work, and was born at Somerset, Perry Co., in 1818. When 10 years of age he came to this county with his parents. He was reared to and has always followed agricultural pursuits, and his only capital when he commenced in life was willing hands and a determination to succeed. The results show for themselves, as he now owns two good farms, the product of his own industry and good management, besides other possessions that make him comfortable for life. Mr. Elder lost his only daughter-Mary E., February 7, 1876. She was a gifted and much esteemed young lady, and her premature death undoubtedly hastened the departure of her feeble mother, who died the following March. Mr. Elder resided at Huntsville at the time of this double affliction, but now lives alternately with his two sons. James K. worked out by the month in early life, but for a number of years has been farming for himself. He has already secured a pleasant little farm, and is one of the largest and most successful grain growers of the township. He was married Jan. 19, 1871, to Anna C., daughter of John W. and Elizabeth Dyche. She was born Sept, l3, 1853, in Morgan Co., now West Virginia. Her parents lived here a short time, but are now in Kansas. Three children have blessed this union-Mary L., James K. and Robert F. Both he and his wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church. Mr. Elder has always been a stalwart member of the Republican party, and takes an active interest in their proceedings. He is a gentleman of decided worth, and whose purity and integrity of character are above reproach. PRESTON O. ELLIS, retired merchant ; Belle Centre, is the oldest of a family of twelve children, and was born July 31, 1822, in Greene Co., O.; his father, Samuel Ellis, was born in the year 1800 in what is now West Virginia, and when 9 years old accompanied his parents to this State, where his father bought 1500 acres of military land, being one of the first settlers of Greene Co. He has never left the county of his adoption, but was there married to Elizabeth Oglesbee, who was also born in Virginia, in the year 1802, and came to this State at an early day He has always lived on the old homestead, which has grown dear to him as it has slowly but surely changed from its primitive state to a beautiful and highly cultivated farm. His earthly companion departed this life more than forty years ago, but he is still living in the full possession of all his faculties ; was united in wedlock Feb. 3, 1844, to Lucy A., daughter of Hiram and Henrietta (Crow) Dakin ; she was born. Dec. 28, 1824, in Clinton Co., O. They lived successively in Greene, Clinton, Warren and Franklin Co's, but most of the time in Warren, an for perhaps sixteen years he was engaged in lumbering, and previous to that was a farmer. In 1866 he bought a farm of 700 acres east of Belle Centre, partly in Hardin and partly in this county. It was a large forest and on that he ran a saw-mill for two years, when he moved to Belle Centre and engaged in the mercantile business which he followed ten years with fair success ; he now superintends the 300 acres of land, which he yet retains, and is a contractor on pikes. By his marriage four children have been born-Mary E., Elizabeth A., Lewis M., and Edwin F. All are married. He has held the offices of Treasurer, Mayor, and Councilman, and has been Republican since the organization of that party. ADAM C. GOSSARD, retired farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is the eldest of a family of ten children, and was born in Ross Co., O., May 1, 1816. His father, Jacob Gossard, was born in Germany and came to this country in 802 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: his boyhood. Farming was his only occupation and support in life. He was married to Mary Calar, a Virginian by birth, and fired in Ross Co., four years after marriage, when he moved to Fayette Co., and bought a farm of military land, which he improved and resided on till death. Adam was entrusted with all his father's business from the time be was 10 years old and displayed remarkable business tact. May 11, 1836, he was married to Jane, daughter of William and Margaret McGowen. She was of Irish descent and was born May 17, 1814, in Butler Co., Penn. In 1845 he moved to Hardin Co. and bought over 200 acres of military land which he improved and lived upon for many years. His wife died Oct. 11, 1866, having borne him four children, one died in infancy-Francis J. was lost in the late war at the battle of Franklin; William H. and Nancy J. are yet living. Both are married, the son living on the old farm. In 1873 Adam retired from the farm and moved to Belle Centre, where he has since lived. He was married Oct. 1, 1874, to Sophia E., daughter of Christian and Sarah Cocklin. She was born Jan. 14, 1840, in Cumberland Co., Penn. He has been Trustee and Treasurer, and a member of the Masonic Order over thirty years. He joined the M. E. Church in 1825 and was connected with that denomination till 1878; since that time he and his wife have been members of the Presbyterian Church. RICHARD A. GRAHAM, merchant; Belle Centre; is the eldest son of the family, and junior member of the firm of Ramsey & Graham; was born in Bloomfield, Coshocton Co., O., March 19, 1848. His father, Robert W. Graham, was born in the Emerald Isle, and emigrated to this country when 8 years of age; he came direct to Coshocton Co., where he has ever since lined; he was married to Mary Ramsey, a native of that county; and for some time he was engaged in business in Bloomfield; he manufactured boots and shoes, kept store, and owned a mill for a few years, but is now living on a farm. His wife died in June, 1852, leaving three small children for him to protect and rear to maturity. When 15 years old Richard came to Belle Centre, which has ever since been his home; he clerked for W. & A. C. Ramsey, attended college one year, each, at Berea and Hayesville, O., and was in a hardware store at Brooklyn, Ia., for one year; in 1869 he succeeded A. C. Ramsey in the store, and has since been in business for himself; he was married April 19, 1877, to Emma R., daughter of Darnel and Phebe A. Mackinnon. She was born June 1, 1854, at Huntsville, in this county. By this union one child has been born-named Fred. His wife belongs to the Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and is a Republican. THOMAS HOSACK, farmer; P. O., Belle Center; was born March 24, 1819, in Mercer Co., Pa. His father, Thomas Hosack, Sr., was a native of Adarns Co., Pa:, and served as a Colonel in the war of 1812, he and Colonel Christy commanding Fort Erie. He was married to Margaret Johnston, and soon after moved to Mercer Co., where he farmed and ran a mill. His wife died after having borne him ten children, and he then married to Susan Bainbridge, of Crawford Co., Pa. He died in 1852, being burned in his own house, and having considerable money by him, foul play was suspected. Thomas came to this county when 19 years old, and worked at the carpenter's trade for several years near Richland. He was married Feb. 23, 1843, to Mary J. McClure, a native of Ireland and a resident of this country, after she was 7 years old. They lived in Richland till 1848, when he bought a half interest in the mill south of Belle Center, and after running it four years moved on the farm on which he now lives. It was all heavy forest, and he now has 60 acres cleared, good buildings and other improvements to make it attractive and valuable. Their union has been blessed with seven children, five are living, Robert M., Elizabeth J., Martha H., William J., and Ebenezer W. The four eldest are married; all the family are members of the of the R. P. Church, except the eldest son, who belongs to the Presbyterian denomination. T. NEWTON HARROD, druggist; Belle Centre; is the eldest of a family of four children, and was born March 6, 1838, in McArthur Tp.; the Harrods were the first settlers in McArthur Tp., two brothers coming there with their families from Kentucky, and settling on the very land on which the Cherokee Indians were then living; it was RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 803 there that Sanford Harrod, the father of Newton, was born and reared to his maturity, and in early life became inured to the trials that beset the first pioneers of a new country. He was married to Sarah J. Piatt, whose parents were also very early settlers, and in 1845 he moved to a farm of new land one mile east of Belle Centre; this he cleared and improved as fast as possible and lived on it most of the time until 1872, when he sold it and moved to Terre Haute, Ind., and engaged in gardening and the small fruit business; he followed that until the death of his wife in 1876, and has since been traveling in various parts of the great West; Newton commenced business for himself when 25 years old, and first bought the mill south of Belle Centre, which he conducted for two years; he sold that and engaged in the grocery trade at this place, doing a good business for one year, when he quit and soon after went into the drug business, in which ire is yet engaged, keeping the largest and most complete stock in town; he was married Feb. 11, 1864, to Margaret .J. Smith; their union has been blessed with eight children, including three pairs of twins, one of each couplet being dead; the living are-Orion L., Elmer H., Theo. C., Gusta B. and one unnamed. He was in the service a short time, and has served several terms as Township Treasurer and Councilman; is a member of the I. O. O. F., and has always keen a Republican. URIAS HOYT, retired farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; was born Sept. 4, 1808, in Stillwater, Rensselaer Co., N. Y.; his parents were natives of Westchester Co., that State; his father's name being Jesse and his mother's maiden name Sally Weed. His father was a shoemaker by trade, and died in that State in 1855. Urias learned the trade with his father, and when 18 years old commenced for himself; he followed "jour" work till 1839, and then had a shop of his own in connection with a store; he lived in Michigan seven years; one year he was a circuit minister, and six years was engaged in clearing and improving a farm; he has also lived two years m Illinois, where he was engaged in the mercantile business, and from there he moved to Urbana, and after a residence of two years he secured a farm in Hardin Co., on which he lived until April, 1880, when he moved to Belle Centre, to secure that freedom from care that a lifetime of usefulness has surely earned. He first married Dec. 29, 1831; this wife died April 29, 1868, having borne one child that died when 17 years old. He was married Oct. 15, 1868, to Mrs. Sarah A. Weaver, whose maiden name was Sloan; she was born Jan. 5, 1830, in Ireland, and emigrated to this country during her childhood. By this union two children have been born - Joseph U., born Sept. 3, 1869, and John J., April 10, 1871. Both he and wife are members of the M. E. Church, in which he has been local preacher forty years, and also an Elder. He has been Justice of the Peace, and was Postmaster at Walworth, N. Y., for seven years: has always been a Democrat. R. H. JOHNSTON, farmer ; P. O., Belle Centre ; is one of the energetic and reliable farmers of this township, and was born in Harrison Co., March 2, 1832, ; his father, John B. Johnston, was one of the most prominent and influential men in the township. He was born in 1802 in Indiana Cu., Pa., and worked on the faun and at the tanner's trade until 21 years old ; desiring a good education he attended college at Carrnonsburg, Pa., and then at the Theological Seminary at Pittsburgh City. He received license to preach and was soon after married to Sarah Bruce, a lineal descendant of that renowned Scotch family. He moved to Logan Co., in 1833 and was the first pastor of the Old Miami Congregation at Northwood ; he was the founder of Geneva College and manifested a warm interest in the success of that institution of learning. He was one of the first advocates of abolition and held many spirited debates in different parts of the county. In 1859 he moved to St. Clairsville, Belmont Co., where he has been Postmaster most of the time, and until lately preached in the United Presbyterian Church. Hamilton commenced for himself when 23 years old, and has always been a farmer. He farmed in Michigan two years, and then went to Iowa and bought a home ; he returned to this State for a housekeeper and was married Oct. 13, 1857, to Hannah M. Clyde ; she was born April 12, 1835, and is the daughter of Joseph and Anna (Jameson) Clyde ; her parents moved to Belle Centre in 1857, lived there ten years and have since been in Iowa. 804 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Hamilton lived on his western land a short time and has since lived in this county where he has cleared up a good and valuable farm. They have five children-R. Clyde, E. Bruce, Elmer B., Minnie O. and John B. Both are members of the R. P. Church. CORNELIUS JAMESON, retired farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; was born March 8, 1801, in Ligonier Valley, Indiana Co., Penn. His father, William Jameson, was born in Scotland, and was brought to this country when 4 years old; he always made farming his occupation, and was married to Mary Hutchison , a native of Pennsylvania. They lived in Indiana Co. until 1832, when they moved to this State, and ever after lived in Crawford Co. Cornelius commenced for himself when married; this was March 8, 1825, to Miss Phebe Davis, a native of Connecticut, but raised in Pennsylvania. He farmed five years, and then taught school two years at Blairsville, having taught during every winter season for nine years previous; he came to this State in 1832, and lived five years in Crawford Co., and has ever since made this county his home; be owned a tan-yard near Cherokee for three years, and kept a boarding-house and store at Northwood for the same length of time; he has owned two different farms near Belle Centre, but is now living a retired and quiet life. His wife died Aug. 8, 1848, leaving eight children, seven of whom are now living-Elizabeth, Mary, Sylvia, Emily, Martha B., Louisa and Eunice A. He was married Sept. 18, 1849, to Christiana McClure, a native of Ireland. She died Sept. 26, 1861, leaving two children-Phebe D. and Ulric Z. Nov. 20, 1862, he united his fortunes with those of Mary J. Carter, widow of Dr. John Carter. She. was born in Harrison Co., and had one child. Both he and his wife are members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, of which he has been ruling Elder thirty-two years. WILLIAM JOHNSTON, farmer; P. O., New Richland; was born July 7, 1810, in Beaver Co., Pa. His father, who also answered to the same name, was born in Co. Antrim, Ireland, and accompanied his parents to this country when 11 years of age. He was married Feb. 5, 1799, to Mary M. Shearer, a native of Pennsylvania, and lived in Beaver Co., until 1813, when they moved to Wayne Co., in this State. In 1813, they moved to Logan Co., and settled in this township, where they improved a large and valuable farm. William lived under the parental roof until 25 years of age, assisting his father in clearing the farm and attending to the comforts of the family. He was married Dec. 10, 1840, to Elizabeth, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Fulton) Scott. She was born March 15, 1819, in Licking Co. Her father served in the war of 1812, and was one of the first settlers in this township, coming here in 1824. Having no children of their own, William and wife have at different times taken children into their kind and tender care until no less than six are under grateful obligations to them for the benefits acquired in a Christian home. They have always lived on the same farm since marriage, and both are members of the R. P. Church, which they joined near 1840. ALEXANDER KING, farmer ; P. O., Mew Richland; is among the early pioneers of this township, who have seen the heavy forests replaced with beautiful and valuable farms, and has taken an active part in the growth and development of this county; he was born in Cumberland Co., Pa., Oct. 14, 1798; his father, James King, was a native of Ireland, and there married Nancy Gass; they soon after emigrated to this country and lived in Pennsylvania until 1810, when they came to this State; they lived in Trumbull Co. seven years, and ever after in Licking Co.; his father was a wheelwright by trade and made it his chief occupation, although he owned a farm. Alexander learned the trade with his father, and commenced doing for himself a short time before marriage; this occurred March 24, 1824, her name being Margaret Fulton; in 1829 he moved to this county and settled on the farm on which he now lives; the only improvements were a log-cabin and a few acres of partly-cleared land; he worked at his trade five years after coming here, and has since been a farmer; he now owns nearly 300 acres of land in this township and has valuable property in the far west; his wife died July 29, 1833, leaving three children-Nancy G., Sarah L., and Margaret G. April 6, 1836, he united his fortunes with those of Mary, daughter of William and Mary Johnston; she was born April 26, 1808, and has borne him seven children- James, Martha L, Mary E., William, RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 805 Lovina, Marion A. and Benjamin L. The eldest was killed in Utah, where he was employed on the railroad. His wife and daughters are members of the United Presbyterian Church; he has been a Republican since the organization of that party. ASBERY F. LYLE, merchant; Belle Centre; is the youngest son of John and Mary Lyle, and junior member of the firm of Lyle & Bro.; he was born May 6, 1858, in Muskingum Co., O.; he worked on the farm until his father engaged in the mercantile business, when he commenced clerking in the store. His father soon withdrew from the business, and he has since been a member of the firm. May 25, 1876, he joined his fortunes with those of Frovolia G. Porter, daughter of J. C. and Elizabeth Porter. She was born November 15, 1855, in this county. By this happy union two children have been born Franklin O. and Elmer W. She is a consistent member of the Disciple Church at this place. He has so far been identified with the Democratic party. JOHN W. LYLE, merchant; Belle Centre; is one of the prominent and enterprising citizens. of the town of Belle Centre, and, although he has lived here only a short time, has rapidly advanced to the front, and is now among the foremost business men; he is the second of a family of ten children, and was born March 28, 1842, in Muskingum Co., O. His father, John Lyle, a native of that county, was born in 1812, and his mother, Mary (Baird) Lyle, was born in 1814; his father was a farmer by occupation, but manufactured stoneware for ten years, and worked a coal bank for fourteen years. In 1872 he moved to Logan Co., and bought a farm one-half mile east of Belle Centre, on which he lived five years, and then engaged in the mercantile business with his son for two years, and has since lived a retired and quiet life. His wife died June 17, 1879. John commenced for himself when of age but worked at his father's business till 1872, when he moved to Hardin Co., and engaged in farming. The following summer one of his legs was crushed in a horse-power, and was amputated in March, 1874; he removed to Belle Centre the following fall, and kept Grocery two years, when he went into partnership with H. M. Cline, keeping a general stock. After one year's business he withdrew, and kept a grocery at Roundhead for nearly two years, when he returned and has since been in the mercantile business at this place. Lyle & Bro. keep a good assortment of groceries, dry goods, boots and shoes, hats, caps, notions, etc., and have a large and rapidly increasing trade. He was married April 15, 1867, to Hester A., daughter of Henry and Prudy (Rambo) Thomas; she was born in Muskingum Co., March 13, 1850. Six children are the fruits of this union-Lily V., Addie B., Myrtie M., Florence M., and the twins-Harry Earl and Gracie Pearl; he was in the war a short time, and is now a member of the I. O. O. F.; he has always belonged to the Democratic party. OLIVER LIGGITT, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is one of the energetic and promising farmers of this township, in which he was born April 4, 1847. His father, John Liggitt, was born in 1813, in York Co., Pa., and accompanied by his mother and two sisters settled at an early day on that historic piece of property known as the "Solornon's Town" farm. He married Susan Core, who was born in Fayette Co, in 1822, but was then living with her grandparents at Northwood, her parents having died during her in fancy. By industry and energy he soon possessed one of the best improved and most valuable farms in the township. He died May 31, 1848, in the very prime of his life, leaving four children, of whom, Oliver was the youngest. The widowed mother was afterward married to James McClure, a native of Ireland, with whom she lived till her death, Nov. 11, 1875. Oliver commenced for himself when 18 years of age and has always followed farming in this township, except two seasons, he was with his uncle in Clarke Co. He was married Sept. 5, 1871, to Catharine J., daughter of Robert and Jane (Torrence) Shields. She was born Jan. 3, 1847, in this county, and has borne him four children, the three youngest of whom are yet living - David A., Robert J. C., and John W. He owns nearly 100 acres of well improved land, and for several seasons he and his father-in-law have run a threshing machine with good success. Both he and wife are members of the R. P. Church. T. CLARK LAUGHLIN, farmer; P. O., 806 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Belle Centre; was born in this township Aug. 13, 1834. His father, Hugh Laughlin, was born in Erie, Penn., and was brought to Guernsey Co., O., in his infancy. He was a farmer by occupation, and married Maria Clark, a native of Beaver Co., Penn. A few years after marriage they moved to this township and cleared up and improved a good farm. She died in 1857, and he is now living with his youngest son in Rushcreek Tp. Clark lived with his father till 28 years old, working on the farm, and teaching school during the winter for several years. He then commenced doing for himself on the farm on which he now lives. It was all timber, and he has changed its appearance greatly, having cleared over 100 acres of heavy forest and erected beautiful and commodious buildings. He was married April 26, 1864, to Martha Jeffers. She was born in Pennsylvania and raised in this State; she died March 12, 1865, leaving one child-Hugh C. Feb. 6, 1868, he was married to Fannie Henry, a native of Champaign Co., where she was born Aug. 18, 1844. By this union five children have been born - Margaret M., June E., Rhuda H., Edna G. and Carrie M. He has been Township Clerk, Assessor, and was Land Appraiser in 1880. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and has always been a warm adherent of the Republican party. JOSIAH R. LAUGHLIN, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is one of the prominent farmers of this township, owning a large farm, on which beautiful and commodious buildings have been constructed, making a convenient and tasty home; he is the second child of Alexander and Sarah (Robe) Laughlin, both of whom are still living on a farm in Guernsey Co., where they were born. His father is the eldest of a family of seven children, all of whom are living, the youngest being near 65 years old. Josiah lived under the parental roof until his marriage-Oct. 20, 1854-to Martha, daughter of John and Mary (Burns) Johnson. She was born Sept. 1, 1834, in what is now Noble Co., O. He followed farming in his native county until 1863, when he moved to where he now lives. By their marriage seven children have been born-Robert J., Anna M., Sarah A., Edwin J., Jennie A., William, and Clara M. The eldest graduated at Wooster in 1878, and is now attending the Theological Seminary at Princeton. The second has lately finished a course at Geneva College, in this county. Their third child-Sarah Alice-was most foully murdered near Lewiston Reservoir, in 1875, by James Shell. He paid the penalty with his life, being taken from the jail soon after by a body of enraged citizens and hung to the nearest tree. The parents and the three eldest children are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he has been Elder for several years. He takes little interest in political affairs, and so far has been a Democrat. SAMUEL LAMBARD, farmer ; P. O., Belle Centre. This hardy pioneer was born in Augusta Co., Va., Aug. 18, 1804, and of eleven children is the only living representative of the family. His parents were natives of Augusta Co., and were German descent ; his fathers name was Abraham and his mother's maiden came was Barbara Hamaker. His father was a farmer by occupation and manufactured his own implements of husbandry. He emigrated to Ohio, in 1815, and settled in Ross Co., where he lived one year and then moved to Fayette Co., securing a farm in what was termed the "New Purchase; " this he cleared and improved till 1832, when he sold it and came to Logan. Co.; he bought nearly 300 acres of new land which he divided among his three children then living, letting each one clear and improve his own home. Samuel has always been a farmer anti commenced doing for himself as soon as married, although he never left his father's farm. He was married April 18, 1826, to Learna H., daughter of William and Rebecca Dickey ; she was born Jan. 18, 1809, and lived in Fayette Co., when married. Her father was a Presbyterian preacher ; by this union eight children were born, only three of whom are living-James R., Rebecca J. and Mary E.; they are married, the eldest living on the old homestead, the second in Missouri and the daughter in Champaign Co. His wife died July 13, 1846, and June 25, 1847, he was married to Ellen, widow of William Edmiston ; she had two children - David and Mary, who are now married and living in Clinton, Ill.; she was born June 15, 1812, in York Co., Penn. To them three children have been born, one is living-John W., who is engineer on a railroad and lives RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 807 at Grand Island, Neb. The whole family belong to the Presbyterian Church. He has always been a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Jackson. JOSEPH LILES, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; has been living in this county since his childhood, and was raised on the farm on which he now lives. He was born Aug. 19, 1826, in Ross Co., O. His father, Lernuel Liles was born in North Carolina near the year 1780, and when 12 years old moved to Tennessee, where he lived till 1812, when he enlisted in the army, and served nearly two years, and was at the battle of Sandusky, and received his discharge when at Sackett's Harbor. He walked from there to Beaver Co., Penn., and stopped for the purpose of replenishing his purse; while here he became warmly attached to a young lady by the name of Hannah Deringer; her parents were opposed to their marriage, but love surmounts all obstacles, and they started on a wedding tour down the Ohio river in a "dug-out" canoe, which contained their worldly effects, their objective point being Tennessee. They stopped in Ross Co., to visit an uncle, and having only $7 in money, they were induced to make that place their home. He leased a farm for a number of years, but sold his lease in 1831, and moved to Logan Co., where he bought 100 acres of military land, on which he lived till his death, in 1876. He helped each of his children to a home, and was for many years a licensed preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church, which he joined soon after marriage. Joseph learned the mason trade when 14 years old, and followed it for near 14 years, when he relinquished it, and has since made farming his chief occupation. In 1865, he bought the mill south of Belle Centre, and controlled it till 1878, when he and his son built a large and commodious structure in the town, and moved the machinery to that place. He was married March 16, 1878, to Anna, daughter of James and Rebecca (Tucker) Farout. She was born Jan. 6, 1826, in Champaign Co. By this union three children have been born-George W., John B. and Osmun. The two eldest are married-George W. living in Hardin Co., and John B. in Belle Centre, superintending the mill. Has been identified with the Republican party since its organization. ALONZO C. McCLURE, farmer; P. O., New Richland; is one of the enterprising farmers of this township, and was born Oct. 18, 1839, near Detroit, Mich.; his father, Andrew McClure, was born near Belfast, Ireland, where he learned the trade of shoemaking; when 19 years old he came to this country, and after a short residence in York State he went to Canada, where he was married to Samantha A. Crandell, whose father had served in the war of 1812. Being of an impulsive and patriotic disposition he was captain of a company in the " Patriot war," and to escape capture fled to Michigan; he soon returned to Canada, however, where be remained until 1855, and then returned to Michigan and was the first Justice of the Peace in Gratiot Co.; he was engaged in various kinds of business during his life and for many years was a heavy dealer in marble, followed farming, and died in 1873. When 12 years of age Alonzo left home to live with his uncle, William McClure, and remained with him until 1860, in the meantime learning the shoemaker trade; he clerked in a store, kept a shop of his own, and during the war enlisted in Company D, 34th O. V. I., and served until the close of the war; he has since been a farmer and now owns the old "Solomon's Town " farm, which he has brought to a fine degree of cultivation; he was married Sept. 25, 1862, to Sarah J. Liggitt, daughter of John Liggitt; she. died April 7, 187 3, leaving four children - M. Cora, Eva C., Nathaniel, James L.; March 23, 1876 he was united to Adella C. Johnston, daughter of James S. and Mary (Hyndman) Johnston; they were among the first settlers of this township and are now living at Northwood, where Adella attended college; this union has been blessed with two, children-Frank W. and Mary A. Mr. McClure has always been a stalwart Republican and is now Trustee; his wife is a consistent member of the R. P. Church; they have a beautiful and interesting home, and we bespeak for them a happy and prosperous future. JOHN McKIRAHAN, farmer; P. O., Northwood; is the seventh of a family of thirteen children, nine of whom are living, and was born Feb. 13, 1843, in Belmont Co. His father, John McKirahan, Sr., was born in Washington Co., Penn., in 1806, and came to 808 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Belmont Co., O., when 5 years old. He learned the shoemaker's trade at which Ire worked in early life, but has made farming his chief occupation. He was married to Eliza Porterfield, a native of Lancaster Co., Penn., and a resident of Ohio since her child hood. He moved to this county in 1864 and has since lived in Northwood. When only 18 years old John enlisted in Company D, 25th Regiment, O. V. I., and served nearly five years. He was wounded at the second battle of Bull Run and again at Gettysburg. On receiving his discharge he came directly to Northwood and has since been farming. He was married Dec. 31, 1874, to Matilda, daughter of Isaac and Jane Downs. She was born July 16, 1853, in Mercer Co., Penn., and came here in 1864. They lived in Rushcreek Tp. three years and have since been at Northwood. By their union three children have been born-Ida Ethel, Frank F. and Walter W. He owns 90 acres of land adjoining the village, and he, wife and parents are members of the United Presbyterian Church. He has always been a Republican and his father has been identified with that party since its organization. JOHN M. McKINLEY, druggist; Belle Centre; is among the most promising business men this town affords, and already has built up a good trade, although he has been in business but a short time; he is the eldest of a family of three children, and was born Nov. 12, 1857, in Adams Co., Ohio; his father, David S. McKinley, is a native of the Emerald Isle, came to this country during his childhood in company with his parents; they settled in Adams Co., where he was married to Mary J. Hemphill, a native of Philadelphia. He followed farming till 1865, when he moved to Belle Centre, and engaged in mercantile business for some three years, and has since been keeping a tin and stove store; his wife has been engaged in the millinery business since they carne here, having, no doubt, the best trade in the town. John received a good common school education, and in 1877 be secured a half interest in the drug store he now owns. Dr. Wilson, of this place, was his partner for two years, and since then he has been sole proprietor; he keeps a good assortment of drugs, schoolbooks, etc., and is kind and obliging to all, thus securing hosts of friends. He has always been an advocate of the principles of the Republican party. ALEXANDER F. McCONNELL, harness maker ; Belle Centre ; is the eldest of a family of four children, and was born June 25, 1841, in Greene Co., O.; his father, Adam McConnell, was born and raised in Allegheny Co,, Pa. On arriving at manhood he came to this State, where he soon after married Mary E. Foster, a native of Greene Co. He worked at the carpenters' trade most of the time, and at the death of his wife in 1849, he placed the children in care of his mother-in-law, and started for the gold fields of California where he soon after died. Alexander lived nn the farm most of the time till 1861, when he commenced the trade of harness-maker with Jacob Earick at. Belle Centre ; he remained with him till the fall of 1862, when he enlisted in Company K, 121st Reg., O. V. I.; was at the battles of Perryville, Chickamauga, Resacca and other engagements, and was wounded in the heel at Chickamauga., and in a skirmish near Avonsborough, N. C., his knee was shattered which resulted in amputation. On receiving his discharge he returned to Greene Co., and worked at his trade ; the next spring he went to Muskingum, Co., and set up a shop of Iris own which he kept two years, when he came to Northwood and kept grocery. In 1873 he came to Belle Centre and soon after went to work at his trade and is doing a good business. He was married Nov. 15, 1866, to Mattie E., daughter of Robert and Eliza J. Wylie ; she was born in June, 1842, in this township. By this union three children have been born -Mary E., Ada B. and Robert F. He and wife are members of tire Reform Presbyterian Church. JERRY McALEXANDER, livery stable; Belle Center; is the youngest living member of a family of twelve children, and was born Nov. 27, 1850, in Champaign Co., O. His father, David McAlexander, was a native of that county, and was married to Elizabeth Idle, who was born in Virginia and lived in. Champaign Co. after she was 10 years old. They had only 75 cents with which to commence housekeeping, but by hard labor and economy they acquired a valuable property. He owned over 200 acres of land at his death, in 1864, RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 809 his wife having died three years previously. Jerry commenced for himself at his father's death, and lived the two first years in Indiana. He returned and worked on a farm till his marriage, Sept. 14, 1870, to Melissa J., daughter of John and Mary Goslee. She was born Nov. 20, 1849, in Hardin Co. Her mother was a cousin of the famous Simon Kenton, and died when Melissa was quite small. From that time till her marriage she lived with an uncle, the last ten years being in Champaign Co. They lived in that county five years and then moved to Hardin Co., where he followed farming four years and has since been in Belle Centre. He owned the bakery and restaurant one year, and has since kept livery stable, owning no doubt the best and most complete in the town. They have one child, a girl named Oro. His wife belongs to the Disciple Church. CHARLES MAINS, lumber dealer; Belle Centre; is one of tire most prominent and well-known citizens in this county, and ,was horn March 12, 1824, in Washington Co., Pa. His father, Edward Mains, was a native of Ireland, and emigrated to this country after he arrived at manhood; he settled in Washington Co., Pa., and was soon after married to Margaret Young, of Brooke Co., Va.; he was a farmer by occupation, and in 1832 he moved to Richland Co., O., the mother riding on horseback and carrying the youngest child; he died Dec. 24, 1835, and from that time Charles took care of himself. He lived on a farm until 1839, when he commenced the trade of carpenter at Mansfield; he soon quit and went to Reynoldsburg, O., where he drove a team on the National road a short time, and then walked back to his old home; he followed various occupations for several years, and then secured a place with a railroad contractor at Shelby; in 1845 he came to Kenton, and had only 25 cents when he arrived at that place; we soon find him furnishing timber for the construction of the old Mad River &: Lake Erie R. R., now known as the C., S. & C. R. R.; he followed this business on different roads until his marriage, in December, 1850, to Frances Zauller, of Hardin Co.; he soon settled in Belle Centre, and engaged in the mercantile business, and dealt in stock, grain, timber, etc., until 1861; he went into the army as Captain of Company E, 82nd, Reg., O. V. I.; was unfit for military duty, and soon returned, and joined the Squirrel Hunters at the defense of Cincinnati; he moved to Hardin Co., where he lived until 1870, and has since lived at this place; he was agent fur au agricultural firm nearly three years, and has since dealt in lumber, doing an extensive business. Two of his children died in infancy; four are living-Edward H., John C., Charles R. and Munson L. He belongs to the Masonic Order, has been Justice of the Peace, and for two years was Director of the Reform School for Boys, being Chairman of the Board the last year. He is a strong Democrat, and leader of that party in this township. M. M. McINTIRE, hotel; Belle Centre; is the eldest of a family of four children, and was born May 6, 1859, in Roundhead, Hardin Co., O. His father, Edward D. McIntire, is a native of this State, and many years ago was united by marriage to Melinda Oldaker. He has worked at the carpenter's trade, but of late years has paid most of his attention to farming, living in Hardin Co. Miller was married Dec. 29, 1878, to Samantha, daughter of John and Mary Lyle. She was born Sept. 28,1856, in Muskingum Co. They commenced housekeeping in Belle Centre, and for a while kept a boarding-house, and in April, 1880, he became the manager of the Belle Centre Hotel, the only public house in the place. Their union has been blessed with one child-Osta Blanche. His wife belongs to the Disciple Church. He is a member of the Democratic party. E. E. NAFUS, carriage and buggy manufacturer; Belle Centre; is one of the most enterprising and energetic business men to be found in this township, and, although he has lived here but a few veers, he has built up a good and rapidly increasing trade; he he was Born June 15, 1849, in Sunbury, O.; his father, Joseph S. Nafus, was a native of Luzerne Co.., Pa.; was born near the scene of the Wyoming massacre, in which some of his relatives were killed; he came to this State during his boyhood, and learned the trade in a wagon and buggy shop at Delaware, O.; he was married to Mary A. Ports, and owned a shop at Delaware, and then at Sunbury. In 1850 he moved to West Liberty, this county, and resided there eight years, when he came to Huntsville and conducted a good 810 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: business, till his death, in 1867. Ed. learned the trade with his father, but at his death, the bright vision of a classical education and a professional career vanished like mist before the rising sun, and he immediately became the business manager; he followed the trade three years, and then sold out and went to Kansas; he soon returned to Huntsville, where he lived one year and then moved to Louisburg, Champaign Co.; he was engaged in manufacturing buggies and carriages at that place with Levi Warner, and in 1873 he moved to Belle Centre, where he has since lived; he was married March 17, 1871, to Martha L. Anderson; she was born Nov. 23, 1847, in this township. Her father, John B. Anderson, was one of the early settlers, and a very prominent man; he was Justice of the Peace twenty years. They have one child living, Mary Gertrude; their twins died in infancy. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he has been Superintendent of the Sunday School four years; has served as Township Clerk several ,years, and is elected each year with an increased majority ; he is the presiding officer of the I. O. O. F., and corresponds for the Bellefontaine Republican and Cincinnati Daily Gazette, and has always taken an active part in the proceedings of the Republican party, of which he is a stalwart member. WILLIAM REED, farmer; P. O., New Richland; was born Nov. 27, 1823, in Lancaster Co., Pa.; his father, Robert Reed, was a native of the Emerald Isle, and in his ,youthful days learned the trade of weaver; he was married to Mary Ann Gibson, and was blessed with two children; he emigrated to the New World; this was in 1818, and their first permanent home was in Lancaster Co., from which they moved to near Pittsbug; in 1833 they moved to Guernsey Co., Ohio, where the wife and mother departed this life in 1845; her companion remained there until 1856, when he moved to Iowa and died in 1859. William commenced for himself when 26 years old, and has always been a tiller of the soil; Oct. 13, 1853, he took unto himself a helpmeet in the person of Mary J. Gray, who was born Aug. 25, 1831, in Belmont Co., O.; her parents were natives of Ireland, and lived in this country several years before their marriage; her father's name being James and her mother's maiden name Ellen Walkinshaw; they moved to this township in 1837, and settled on the farm on which his son, Robert Gray, now lives; after marriage William lived in Guernsey Co., until 1862, when he moved to this township, where he now owns nearly 200 acres of land in a good location and an attractive home; nine children have blessed this union, two of whom died in 1874, one being an accomplished young lady, the other a sprightly youth; those living are-Sarah E., Mary A., Lizzie N., Robert G., Lydia. J., James R. and Lora E.; the first four children have attended Geneva College; the parents and three eldest daughters are members of the R. P. Church. WILLIAM RAMSEY, merchant; Belle Centre; is one of the most successful and enterprising business men this town contains, and has contributed much to its advancement as an important trading point. He is the eldest son of a family of six children, and was born Feb. 5, 1831, in Keene, Coshocton Co., O.; his father, Henry A. Ramsey, was born in Ireland where he learned the trade of cabinetmaker. On reaching man's estate he emigrated to this country, and soon after was married in Guernsey Co., O., to Margaret Cullen, daughter of William and Mary Cullen ; she was of Irish birth and came here when quite young. They always lived in Keene, where he was engaged in the mercantile business; and where he died in 1840. At the age of 15 William left home and commenced clerking in a store at Kilbuck, in Holmes Co.; he remained there two years and then came to Belle Centre and clerked for Reuben Tousley two years, when he entered into partnership with Charles Maines in the grocery business, they soon enlarged their stock and kept dry goods, hardware, etc.; dealt in grain, live stock, staves, hoop-poles, furs and nearly everything that was offered for sale. After ten years of business Mr. Maines withdrew, and was succeeded by A. C. Ramsey, who in turn yielded to R. A. Graham in 1869: Ramsey & Graham do a large business, keeping a full stock of dry goods, groceries, hats, caps, boots, shoes, notions, read-made clothing, etc. He was married June 15, 1858, to Margaret E., daughter of William and Polly Wallace ; she was born in RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 811 this county in 1834. Their union has been blessed with sic children, Four of whom are living-Robert G., Helen A., Earl W., and William B. He owns a farm near town and has land in the west; he was Postmaster over sixteen years, and is a member of the Masonic Fraternity. Politically he is associated with the Republican party. JACOB SESLER, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is the only son now living of a family of ten children, and was born July 25, 1836, in this township. His father was a native of Fayette Co., and came here shortly after Iris marriage to Nancy Carter; he was always identified with the best interests of the county, and did his part toward developing and improving it; he cleared a farm of new land, on which he lived until his death, on May 9, 1866. Jacob commenced for himself when 23 years old, and has always followed farming in this township; he was married on Dec. 31, 1860, to Rebecca, daughter of John and Mary McCoy. She was born July 19, 1840, in Clermont Co., and when 10 years old her parents moved to this place, where they lived one year, and then went to Hardin Co., where her mother died; she lived with an aunt three years, and from that time until her marriage made her home with the persons for whom she worked. They have one child dead. and seven living-Mary, John M., Agnes, Scott, Jessie, Bertie and Freddie. He has always voted the Democratic ticket. WILLIAM M. SCOTT, farmer: P. O., Belle Centre; is the third of a family of eight children, and was born Oct. 21, 1835, in this township, upon the farm on which he now lives. His father, Robert Scott, was born Jan. 4, 1800, in Kentucky, and when 16 years old accompanied his mother to Fayette Co., this State, and engaged in farming. He was there married to Jane McKee, who was born in Pennsylvania, June 22, 1802, and while yet young was taken to Kentucky, where she lived eight years, and then came to Fayette Co. Soon after their marriage, while they yet had only one child, they moved to this county in a wagon, and settled on the farm on which part of the family now reside. This was in 1833, and a more inhospitable and dreary place would be hard to find than near the "slough" where they located. By years of patient toil, in which he was nobly assisted by his ever faithful wife, he succeeded in transforming the dense forest into a beautiful and valuable farm, on which he erected good buildings as first as he was able. He died Oct. 1, 1858, and his companion is still living on the old homestead, her kind children minister ing to every want. Burning with indignation at the insult to his country's flag, enlisted in Company D, 66th O. V. I, and hastened to the field of action. He was first wounded at Port Republic, and shortly after at Cedar Mountain, but at the ever memorable field of Gettysburg he received a bad face-wound on the last day's fight and was discharged the following December. He now superintends the farm, and is a very prudent business manager and well respected citizen. He has always been a Republican, and cast his first vote for John C. Fremont. ROBERT J. SHIELDS, farmer; P. O., Belle Centre; is the only son of David and Catharine (McBeth) Shields, who were among the first settlers of Liberty Tp.; his father was a native of Kentucky, and came to this State after he arrived at manhood; he served in the war of 1812 under Capt. Black, and owned 200 acres of Government land, on which he lived till his death, near 1826; his wife was then married to Henry Fulton, and they lived in Liberty Tp. till 1851, when they moved to Northwood; they resided there about five years and then moved to Michigan, where she died in 1866. Robert lived under the parental roof till his marriage, December 12, 1842, to Jane, daughter of Joseph and Jane Torrence; site was born May 24, 1824, in Philadelphia, and lived in this township at the time of her marriage; Robert farmed the old homestead till 1853, , when he sold it and moved to Adams Co., where he remained thirteen years; he was induced to invest in a store at Belle Centre with .J. B. Torrence, and soon after moved to this place to help conduct the business; he was not adapted to mercantile life, and three years after he again commenced farming, which he has since followed; this marriage has been blessed with nine children, five of whom are living - Catherine. J., Martha L, Nancy E., Mary R. and Amand L.; the two eldest are married, and the third is a successful school teacher; the two eldest children and the parents belong to the R. P. Church. 812 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES HARRISON SPENCER, farmer; P. O., Huntsville; is the fourth child of Thomas and Mary (Roberts) Spencer, and was born Oct. 29, 1826, in Clinton Co.; his parents moved to this county when he was 1 year old, and he was reared to manhood in a pioneer home subject to the privations of all the first settlers; he was fond of the chase, and the country being full of game, his desires were easily gratified, many a deer falling before his trusty rifle; he lived under the parental roof until his marriage in Jan. 1850, to Ellen Hill, when he commenced doing for himself. He has always been a tiller of the soil, and for many nears has been irnproving the farm on which he now lives, having cleared nearly 70 acres himself; his wife died in Feb. 1866, leaving six children, four of whom are living- John, Franklin, James and Lincoln. In March, 1869, he was married to Nancy Wagner, a native of Clarke Co. By this union two children have been born-Bertie and Clara. His wife belongs to the Disciple Church. He owns nearly 300 acres of land, and has always been a Republican. WASHINGTON SPENCER, farmer; P. O., New Richland. Among the early pioneers of this county, we take pleasure in naming the Spencer family, who came to this township in 1827, and settled on a farm of heavy forest land, which afterwards developed into a valuable property, under the aggressive strokes of the woodman's ax. Thomas Spencer, the head of the family, had an erratic disposition when a young man, and visited most of the important places of interest in this country; he served in the war of 1812, as also did his father, William Spencer, who was one of the Revolutionary heroes. After the war Thomas settled near Cincinnati for a short time, and was married to Ellen Johnston, who died in Clinton Co., after bearing him eight children; he was then united to Mary Roberts, a native of Adams Co., who accompanied him to this county ; he died in 1848, and his wife two years later. Washington was born in Clinton Co., Oct. 21, 1822, and never left the family fireside; at the death of his parents his sister kept house for him, and on Oct. 23,1856, be was married to Ellen Hazel, daughter of William and Hannah Hazel. She was born Oct. 20, 1835, in this county, to which her father came from Maryland, when 10 nears old, his only relative being a younger brother. Eight children are the fruits of this union, six of whom are living- Allen, Eva, Horatio, John, Mary and Willis. He has been Trustee many years, and is identified with the Democracy. He owns 141 acres of land near Richland, on which he is placing good buildings. ROBERT B. SIMPSON, farmer; P. O., New Richland; is the eldest son of a family of seven children, and was born May 24,1824, in Ross Co., O.; his father, Matthew Simpson, was born in Huntington Co., Penn., and accompanied his parents to Ross Co. while yet in his boyhood; he served as a drum-major in the war of 1812, at which time he was living in Ross Co.; he was married to a lady by the name of Elizabeth Dean, who was born in Pennsylvania; having learned the blacksmith's trade he moved to Fayette Co. and followed that business for six years, when he returned to Ross and engaged in farming; in the fall of 1837 he moved to this county and bought a farm consisting mostly of heavy forest, which yielded slowly but surely to his sturdy blows, in which he was ably assisted by his son Robert; he died Sept. 30, 1859, and was followed by his wife in March, 1871; Robert was married March 13, 1848, to Deborah Thompson; she was born April 8, 1823, in Guernsey Co., and was a daughter of James and Mary (Carothers) Thompson, who moved to this county in 1831; her mother died soon after their arrival, and the children kept house for their father until his death in October, 1869. In 1851 Robert commenced working on the railroad, first as a fireman and then as engineer; he followed this five years, when he relinquished it for farming, which is more congenial to him; by their marriage five children have been born, the youngest dying in infancy; those living are-James H., who is married and living near home; William S., now at Leadville, Col.; Matthew Franklin, who still lives at home, and John L., who lately joined his brother at the West; Robert and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church; he and Frank belong to the Masonic Order, and has been a Republican since the organization of that. party. JAMES S. SIMS, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville; ; was born Feb. 19, 1811, in Clarke Co., O. His father, Jeremiah Sims, was born and RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 813 raised in Virginia, where he learned the trade of blacksmithing, and was there married to Sarah Millhollen, They emigrated to this State in 1801, settling in Clarke Co.. where they soon secured a home of new land, and on this they lived till death ; making improvements and beautifying their surroundings. He served in the army of 1812, having a captain's commission, and paid his whole attention to his farm after corning to this State. He died Jan. 12, 1824, and his wife in 1839. James lived on the old homestead until the death of his mother when he moved to this county; he cleared different farms, but since 1855 has been where he now lives, on which he has cleared more than 50 acres. He was married Aug. 12, 1832, to Jane Sides ; she was born Oct. 17, 1813, in Maryland, and died Oct. 2, 1854, leaving seven children-William R., Jeremiah T., Peyton S., Sarah F., Mary, James M., and Joseph D.; all lived to maturity and married ; Jeremiah and Mary are dead. William, Mary and Joseph have all taught school, the first being now mail agent on the railroad, and James is Postmaster at Bethany, Mo.; Joseph D. graduated at the Ohio Wesleyan University, and has been a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church six years. He was again married Oct. 2, 1857, to Jane Lewis, who was born in Gallia Co., in 1816 ; one child has blessed this union-Adelia B., now dead. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He has been Justice of the Peace fifteen years, and was Assessor when this was in McArthur Tp. He has been a Republican since that party was organized. THOMAS C. SPEER, carpenter and joiner, Northwood; was born Nov. 13, 1828, in Lawrence Co., Pa.; his father, Thomas Speer, was born in Ireland in 1788, and when he was four years old the family emigrated to North Carolina, where they lived fourteen years, and then came to the county above named; he served in the war of 1812 and was married to Mary Shields, of Westmoreland Co.; he was a farmer by pursuit, and died after a life of usefulness in his 80th year, his companion dying some eight years later in her 86th year. Thomas C. left the parental roof when 18 years of age, and came direct to this township, where he had a brother, and with him learned the carpenter's trade he has ever since lived in this county, except one summer that he was at his old home, and has worked at his trade all the time except four years that he was interested in a saw-mill; he was married May 28, 1850, to Nancy Wylie, and June 12, 1865, she died leaving four children-John W., Mary M., Elizabeth M. and Adella J.; these children. have all attended Geneva College, the eldest having graduated, and was professor of mathematics in that institution last year; Mr. Speer was married to Mary J. Downs, Nov. 13, 1866, and less than two years later she was taken from him by death; March 22, 1870 he secured a companion in the person of Mrs. E. J. Love, a native of Butler Co., Pa.; he owns a pleasant little farm convenient to the village of Northwood, and all are members of the R. P. Church, in which he is ruling Elder; for twenty-two years he was treasurer of the second Miami Congregation, and has been a delegate to the Synod on two occasions, and five times a delegate to the National Reform Convention. JOHN B. TEMPLE, undertaker and furniture; Belle Centre; is the second of a family of five children, and was born Aug. 8, 1836, in Westmoreland Co., Penn. His parents were natives of that county and lived there till their death. His father's name was Samuel W. Temple, and his mother's maiden name was Nancy Boyd; his father always followed farming, and died there in 1860, and his mother died Aug. 15, 1873. John lived on the farm till 1855, when he came to this State and attended college at Geneva; he was here two years, and then he returned to his native State, but while here he became quite strongly attached to a young lady by the name of Martha B. Jameson. daughter of Cornelius and Phoebe (Davis) Jameson. Oct. 15, 1857, he married her and took her to his Eastern home, where they lived one year, and then returned to Belle Centre, which has since been their home. He taught school fur nine years, mostly in Hardin Co.; be has taught in the villages of Roundhead, Dunkirk and Richland. He sold goods one year for Torrence; & Shields, and was in the army a short time; on his return he taught school for two years, and then worked at the carpenter's trade till 1877, when he went into his present business with Ulrich Z. Jameson. They have 814 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: also kept stoves and tinware. In June, 1880, Jameson withdrew, and the business is now conducted by Mr. Temple. By their marriage two children have been born, the eldest died in 1876, and would soon have graduated at Geneva College, where the youngest, Harry W., is now in attendance. Both are members of the R. P. Church, of which he has been deacon twelve years. ELIZA K. TEMPLETON, farmer; P. O., Northwood; was horn April 7, 1830, in Rochester, N. Y. Her father, James Keers, was a native of Ireland, and there learned the trade of weaver; he was married to Elizabeth Young, and in 1828 emigrated to this country, and settled at Rochester, where he worked in a mill; in 1840 he moved to this county, and bought a farm of new land, on which he lived until 1859, when he traded property with John Archer, near Bellefontaine; he lived on that one year, and then moved to this township. His wife died April 25, 1858, and he then married Monemia Maxwell, a native of Livingston Co., N. Y.; he died at Northwood, Dec. 4, 1878. Eliza taught school several years in this county, and on May 1, 1862, was married to Samuel Templeton, son of Alexander and Mary A. (Wallace) Templeton. He was horn Sept. 20, 1824, in Perry Co. They lived on a farm in Auglaize Co., until his death, on Nov. 7, 1867, and she then returned to this township. She lived in Northwood nine years, and has since been on a farm. She has two children -.James A. and Sarah A. She belongs to the Reformed Presbyterian, and he was a member of the Presbyterian denomination. JOHN J. WRIGHT, restaurant and bakery; Belle Centre; was bore Oct. 17, 1844, in Clarke Co., O. His father, John Wright, was born in Massachusetts, and there learned the trade of ship carpenter at which he worked several years after reaching his majority; from there he came to Clarke Co., and settled on a farm and was soon after married to Julia Garfield, of Vermont. At the tender age of eight years John left the parental roof and went to work for a farmer for his board and clothes. He remained with him three years, when his father died and John returned to the home to comfort and contribute to the family support. They soon moved to Belle Centre, and after a residence of three years moved to Kenton. Being of a patriotic and impulsive nature, John was one of the first to fly to the defense of his country, starting the next day after the President's call for volunteers. He enlisted in Co. D, 4th O., and June 6, 1861, re-enlisted for three years. After serving 18 months he was transferred to Co. A, 4th U. S. Art., and when his time expired again re-enlisted for three years more, in the same company. He was in seventeen regular engagements and nineteen skirmishes, and never rode in an ambulance wagon or slept in a hospital during his entire service. He received his discharge Feb. 8, 1867, at Ft. Washington, Md. and six days after he was married to Johannah Callagan a native of Ireland, who had lately emigrated to this country. He immediately returned to Belle Centre, and has since been engaged in business at this place. For several years he kept livery stable, and was proprietor of the Belle Centre hotel, but has lately been engaged in his present business. By his marriage three children have been born- George H., Mary A. and Lily B. He belongs to the order I. O. O. F., and has held township and municipal offices. He has always been a staunch supporter of the Republican party. MOSES D. WILSON, physician and surgeon; Belle Centre; was born near the forks of Yough, in Alleghany Co., Pa. His parents were natives of that county. His father's name was Isaac, and his mother's maiden name was Cassandra Devore. He was a farmer by occupation, and lived in that county until 1853, when he moved to Iowa.. Moses commenced for himself when 17 years old, and for several years he taught and attended school was at Alleghany City and Concord one year each, and during the winter of 1850 and 1851 he attended the Jefferson Medical School at Philadelphia; he then practiced in Greene Co. two years, when he went to the Medical School at Ann Arbor, and graduated in 1854; he practiced at Northwood over one year, and has since been at Belle Centre, except a short tune that he was in the Jefferson General Hospital near Louisville; he was married Jan. 16, 1855, to Lydia C., daughter of John and Elizabeth (Wilkin) Pollock. She died June 22, 1875, leaving three children-Lizzie C., Maggie S. and Jessie O. The eldest is married to William F. Kuhn, Superintendent of Schools RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. - 815 at De Graff; the second is teaching, and the youngest is attending school at Ann Arbor. Oct. 12, 1876, he was married to Mary E., widow of William McLain, by whom were two children-Bunyan A. and Edgar M. She was born Jan. 4, 1833, in this county. He belongs to the Reformed Presbyterian and she to the Presbyterian Church. JAMES WOODS, farmer; P. O., New Richland; is the eldest of a family of nine children, and was born in Ireland in 1817; his father, Samuel Woods, was a mason by trade, and was married to a lady named Martha Mathars; in 1834 the family emigrated to the New World and lived one year in Canada, and then came to Rochester, N. Y,; in 1840 they moved to this State and settled in Logan Co., where he died in 1841 and his wife in 1846. James learned the blacksmith's trade in Rochester, and worked in some of the large Western cities, but soon after his father came to this State he relinquished it and has since been a farmer; he was married May 8, 1854, to Eliza J Young, a native of Palmyra, N. Y., and daughter of John and Eliza J. (Galbreath) Young; twelve children have blessed this union: eleven are living-Samuel, John, James, Andrew, Martha, William, Renwick, Joseph, Matthew. Charles and Martha J.; he owns nearly 150 acres of land, all of which is self-made property; he has been a Republican since that party was organized. WILLIAM C. WALLACE, farmer; P. O., Belle C'entre. Among tire first settlers of this township who hauled Bravely and successfully with the elements of nature, none deserve more favorable mention than the Wallace family, who moved Here in 1830.The family consisted of husband, wife and two children, and the only improvements were a log cabin and a small pied of partly cleared land. William Wallace, the head of the family, was born in Kentucky in 1796 and came to this State in 1814, settling in Fayette Co., where he learned the trade of a wheelwright; he was married in 1826 to Polly Campbell, who was also born in Kentucky in 1803, and came to Fayette Co. during her childhood. He always followed farming after marriage, and at his death, on Dec. 25, 1878, he owned a large and valuable farm, which had been brought to that condition by his own labor and care; his marriage was blessed with six children; the four eldest are yet living-Andrew J., Joann, William C. and Elizabeth M. All are married and settled convenient to the old homestead. where they can visit their aged mother, who is living with her son William. He was born Aug. 24, 1831, in this township, and has always been engaged on the old farm, except a short time that he was in the service, being in the 132nd Reg., O. N. G.; he was married March 17, 1876, to Cordelia A. daughter of William and Martha Ritchey. She was born in this county On July 5, 1839. He has always been a Republican, owns over 300 acres of land, including the old homestead, and pays his chief attention to the rearing of cattle and hogs. ALFRED H. WINDHAM, farmer ; P. O., Huntsville; is one of the largest and most successful farmers in this township ; he was born July 10, 1818, in Montgomery Co., Md. His father, Aquilla Windham, was a native of that State, and was married to Mary Howard. He served in the war of 1812, and made farming his chief occupation through life. While Alfred was yet in his childhood his father died, and he went to live with an aunt; he soon after learned the blacksmith's trade with his uncle, Leonard Howard, and after serving his apprenticeship he worked in Berkeley Co., Va., where he was married to Nancy Johnson, daughter of Joseph and Betsey (Murphy) Johnson. They lived there until the commencement of the war, when they moved to this county, and he has ever since been a. farmer. He now owns over 600 acres of land, most of which was acquired by his own industry and economy. Their marriage has been blessed with nine children, eight are yet living-Thomas H., James P., Joseph A., Nancy A., Aquilla S., Emma C., Lucety V., and George W.; all are married but three. He has always been a Democrat. THOMAS YOUNG, saloon; Belle Centre; is the fourth child of Archibald and Nancy (Hoey) Young, who were natives of Ireland, his father coming to this country when 17 years old, and his mother was born on the passage; his father was a farmer by occupation, and lived in Lancaster Co., Pa., till the death of his wife, when he moved to Cherokee, in this county, where he died in 1864. Thomas was born in Lancaster Co., Dec. 4, 816 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 1834, and lived under the parental roof till 15 years of age, when he commenced doing For himself; he worked on a farm one year and then commenced work on a railroad, which he followed for seven years; he soon after came to this State and labored at various occupations till the fall of 1861, when he enlisted in the 13th Regiment O. V. I., and served nearly one year; Shiloh, Corinth and Stone River were among the battles in which he was engaged; he was captured twice but got away both times; he returned to Bellefontaine and Dec. 24, 1862, he was married to Susan Duckson; he went on the railroad again and remained over two years, when he moved to Belle Centre; he was engineer for six years, watch at Kenton one year, and then went into the grocery trade; he followed that a short time when he went into the saloon business; his wife died Jan. 30, 1871, leaving one child - Robert; April 27, 1872, he was married to Martha Murphy, who has borne him two children- Odis M. and Munson C.; he is not a strong party man, but is generally Republican. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE)