ZANE TOWNSHIP - 629 ZANE TOWNSHIP. WILLIAM M BLACKBURN, farmer, stock-raiser and shipper; P. O., West Middleburg; came from that beautiful island across the sea, which has sent so many stalwart and progressive sons to Zane Tp., Ireland, and especially King's County, is well and honorably represented in the farming interests of this section, and the industry and zeal of these sons of Erin speak volumes for the Mother Country, William was born in County Kings. Parish of Clarrey, Feb. 1, 1819;. his parents, William and Ann (Allen) Blackburn, raised a family of nine children, of which William was the youngest. The subject of our sketch received a common school education, but was compelled to remain a large share of his time on his father's farm. However, he had the good fortune to attend a good agricultural school for two years, and applying himself with the perseverance of one who realized the privilege that he was enjoying, he made most excellent progress, and considers these two years the most, beneficial spent while a boy; a short time after he was appointed Superintendent for a rich Quaker, named Robert Goodbody, having from 50 to 100 men under him; he remained with Mr. Goodbody for two years, When he returned to help his father, remaining with him until he emigrated to America in 1849; he came to Zane Tp., and began to work at the meager salary of 50 cents per day, and besides not having work more than half the time, he was compelled many tunes to accept store bills in lieu of payment in cash; he worked in this desultory manner for two years, and then, having accumulated a small sum of money, bought a farm; he continued to add to his original purchase, until he owned at one time some 335 acres; at present his farm consists of 171 acres, well cultivated, well cleared and well drained, he being the first man in this township to ditch. Upon his farm, which is well adapted to the raising of stock, he raises corn and wheat to a considerable amount, but pays especial attention to his stock, having very fine sheep and as good cattle as can be found in this locality; he has a camp of 1,300 trees which also add to the value of his farm. As an incentive to labor and industry be it known that: when he commenced he had just $2 in his pocket. In 1846, he married Miss Maria Wilson, who was born March 3, 1825, and the sketch of whose father appears in another portion of this work. From this union one son, Talford, was born Aug. 19, 1848. Telford has followed faithfully in the footsteps of his father, and imitating his industry and prudence, has accumulated considerable property, and with his father does a large agricultural business. They are bout good citizens, and although frequently solicited to hold office, have ever kindly but firmly declined. JAMES W. BALLINGER, contractor and builder; West Middleburg: was learn at Camden, New Jersey, August 21, 1827 and at the age of 18 came with his parents to Parry Tp. His father, William, and mother, Beulah (Ward), were natives of New Jersey. The subject of our sketch received his education partly here, and partly in his native State, but his present broad and liberal culture comes from assiduous reading, and his keen observation of men and facts. His father by trade was a carpenter, and James when 16 years of age, also began to learn the trade, working for his father for several years after becoming of age. On November 17, 1850, he married Angeline Curl, a sketch of whose father appears in another portion of these biographies, and from this union there were ten children-Warren, Joseph, Bulah, Lewis, 630 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. Ulysses. Asa, Ira, Perry, Jose and Maria Gertrude. Although a carpenter by trade, he owns a farm of 42 acre, good land, well improved, and upon which he makes a speciality of raising fruit; James W. was in the 132nd O. V. I, under Col. Haines. He is a Mason, Lodge 247, Chapter 60, Logan Council, No. 34; he is at present Township Trustee, and is eminently respected by both parties for his honesty and integrity. In politics he is a Republican. SAMUEL BALLINGER, farmer; P. O., West Middlebury; a son of one of the earliest settlers of Logan Co., was born No Nov. 2, 1835. His grandfather, Samuel Ballinger, was a native of the Old Dominion, and was one of the pioneer settlers of Logan Co., settling in Zane Tp., on the edge of what is now Middleburg, as early as 1810. He raised a family of nine children. Joshua, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Virginia in February,1803. He married Miss Delilah Inskeep, the eldest daughter of John Inskeep. He first settled on the farm upon which Samuel Ballinger now lives in 1826. This farm, consisting of 450 acre, is one of the best farms in Logan Co. Well watered, with an excellent under-drainage consisting 1,200 rods of tile, it is adapted to the raising of all cereal, besides being especially favorable able to the propagation of stock. Samuel Ballinger and his brother Oliver run the farm conjointly, owning and sharing everything in common. They are farmers in all drat that word at present implies. They are energetic, taking a deep interest in all that appertains to the welfare and growth of agriculture. In 186l Samuel married Mary Runyon, who was born in Pennsylvania, April 9, 1839, and came with her parents to Ohio, settling at Troy. He has a family of six children-two boys and four girls. Jenny, born in 1862; William, 1863; Edward Everett, 1864; Edith, 1873; Gertrude,1874; Lydia Jane, 1878. He has occupied several positions of trust and honor, and in politics is a Republican, having cast his first vote for Fremont. GEORGE W. CREVISTON, farmer; P. O., Mingo; was born Dec. 3, 1832., and at an early age evinced that deliberation of manner and thought, now so characteristic of him; his father, John Creviston, was born June 18, 1803, and came to Zane Township as early as 1820. In 1830 John Creviston married Miss Elizabeth Miller, a native of Ohio, who was born April 16, 1806, and at the tune of her marriage was living in Champaign Co. John located in the southwestern part of Zane Township in 1840, where he resided the balance of his life, George W., the subject of our sketch, received a common school education, spending one term at the Union School at West Liberty; when .he arrived at his majority he " struck out'' for himself; he married, February, 1852, Miss Mary E. Stewart, a native of this county, born in May, 1833, and who is now dead; her parents came to this locality from Virginia at an early date. George located on a part of the same farm that his father occupied immediately after his marriage; he has raised a family of four children. The subject of our sketch is a man held in high respect by his neighbors, and, although often solicited to accept office, has persistently refused to dabble in politics; he is a member of Jericho Grange, No. 277; his daughter Viola Jane, is married to Talford Blackburn. His oldest son, Thomas J., born Dec. 31, 1855, is farming in connection with his father; he married Miss Mary A. Connolly, Jan. 1, 1878; they have one child-Sylva May, born Jan. 9, 1879. HARRISON CURL, farmer and harness-maker; P. O., West Middleburg; in the front rank of those who by their labor and industry deserve special and honorable mention as progressive citizens of Zane Tp., stands the above name. He was born in Zane Tp., Oct. 24, 1840; his father, Joseph Stratton Curl, was born on July 28, 1797, in the immediate vicinity of Lynchburg, Va., and moved with his parents to Columbiana Co., 1801. The tatter's father's name was Joseph Curl and his mother's name Sarah (Stratton) Curl; they were both natives of Virginia, and purchased the farm now owned by Harrison Curl of Job Sharp in 1809 and located upon it immediately. The father eventually moved to Green Co., where he died, and Joseph bought the home farm; he married Miss Hunt and by her had three children; he next after her death married Lillah Gregg, one child blessing this union; after her death he married Hulda Culver, and had the following children-Jose H., Angeline, Huldah Ann, Harrison, Sarah Rebecca, and Asa. At 30 years of age Joseph ZANE TOWNSHIP. - 631 drove stage from Urbana to Springfield; he was elected Township Trustee, and took an active interest in educational matters. Harrison received a good common school education, teaching school when a young man for a few years, He remained at home until he was 21, when he enlisted in 1861 in Company C, 17th O. V. I; he participated in various battier during the war and was slightly wounded at the battle of Chickamauga; he marched also with Sherman to the sea. The brothers, Jose H., Marion and Asa, were also in the war; his brother Marion was especially noted for his bravery; he was one time taken prisoner, but not until he had killed five of his assailants; he was killed at the battle of Winchester, Va. He upon his return from the army went to Iowa, but remained there only a short time, and then returned to Zane Tp., and married Miss Arrena McCampbell, whose parents were Robert and Elizabeth McCampbell; she was born in Union Co., in 1846. Five children bless this union-Alice, Luis, Mary, Robert Bruce, French G. Harrison has an excellent farm and is in every sense a progressive and wide-awake, farmer; he has a fine sugar camp, and cultivates choice apples and pears. He is in politics a Republican. EUREM CARPENTER, carriage and wagon maker; West Middleburg; was born in Randolph Co.., Va., April 21, 1813; he is of German descent, and is one of the oldest citizens of this place, having come here Dec. 9, 1835, and begun business: he learned the wagon-maker's trade in Virginia with his father, and came to Ohio at the age of 20, and was followed two y ears later by his parents, Solomon and Catherine Carpenter; he worked a short time in Guernsey Co., and July 9, 1835, married Miss Betsey Ann Allen born in Union Co., July 9, 1819 and a few months later located here. Mr. Carpenter owes his success in life to his close attention to business and the superiority of his work, every piece of which, if not made by himself; passes under his close observation, hence the superiority of his work is far-famed. One of the first carriages made by him was for Waller Marshall, one of the earliest settler, and has keen in constant use in the family for about forty years. Can another carriage-maker cite a like example? He continued to follow his business here with good success until 1858, when he moved to North Lewisburg, where he remained until 1875, when he returned to Middleburg, and is now giving his exclusive attention to his business; he has had a family of five children, three of whom are now living-Franklin, a wood-worker and painter at Watseka, Ill.; George, a black-smith, with Warren & Gommer, Urbana, and Albert, foreman in the wheel department of Columbus Buggy Co. His daughter died in her 35th year, leaving four children. He has not aspired to lead in anything except his legitimate trade, in which he has made uncommon success, He has in addition to his business, a farm of 78 acres in the outskirts of the village. As a citizen he is highly esteemed. JOHN BISHOP COWGILL, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., North Lewisburg; identified himself with the agricultural interests of tlris county, and by his force of character and honesty of purpose has done a great deal to give his community its present enviable reputation. He was born in Union Co., Sept. 15, 1835. His father, Elisha, was born in Columbiana Co., in 1804, and came to Zane Township with John Cowgill, his father, about 1806. John Cowgill was a native of Culpepper Co., Va. Elisha raised a family of ten children, having married Mary (Bishop). John Bishop received a common school education, and when he was 21, such had been his industry and economy, he purchased 85 acres of land. By cat careful investment, but more by arduous toil, he added to his original purchase, until he became a large land owner. He possesses a farm of 198 acres in Logan Co., with fine water privilege, being well watered by two branches of Darby Creek, besides a number of limestone springs. The land is well ditched and under-drained, 500 rods of tiling being used in the latter. He has a good barn and out-buildings, He has a fine sugar camp of some 1,500 vessel, and manufactures annually about 3,500 pounds of sugar. Besides this farm, John Bishop also possesses 240 acres in Allen Township, Union Co., used more particularly as a stock farm, to which latter occupation he has been devoting more especially his attention. The Logan County farm is rich and very productive, both of wheat and corn. In the spring of 1867, John married 632 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. Miss Anna Sharp, daughter of John and Alcy (Bowker) Sharp. Her parents were natives of the East. She was born in 1833. From this union there are two children, Elisha John, born April 10, 1869, and Mary Alcy, born Sept. 25, 1871. JORDON DOWNS, retired farmer; P. O., North Lewisburg; was born Oct. 26, 1824; his father, Joseph Downs, was born in New Jersey, Jan. 23, 1795, and his father's name was Samuel, and his mother's name Abigail Downs. Joseph Downs came to Ohio in 1818, and located on Kings Creek, Champaign Co.; on March 25,1819, he married Esther Williams, who was born April 20, 1797, and came to the North Fork of Kings Creek with her parents in 1814; her parents were Silas and Mary (Hunt) Williams the latter being of Scotch extraction. Joseph Downs was a farmer by occupation, but by trade was a. spinner, and assisted in establishing probably the first carding and spinning mill in either Champaign or Logan Co., and resided in the vicinity until his death. The subject of our sketch remained with his father until his 24th year, when he "struck out" for himself. At the age of 25 he had but $500 to invest in land in Zane Tp.; he continued to work earnestly and faithfully until he possessed 202 acres of land on the Limestone Belt, a part of the rich wheat and corn land of Zane Tp., a worthy tribute to his integrity and hard work. He is now a farmer in excellent circumstances surrounded with all the comforts of life, and living in the light of a Christian gentleman who has identified himself with the progress and improvement of his township. February 5, 1852, he married Miss Hester Inskeep, daughter of John Inskeep; she was born Dec. 31, 1828, and has materially assisted him by her counsel and prudence. They now reside in North Lewisburg, in an elegant home, enjoying the fruits of a life of industry, surrounded by all the comforts to which such a life entitles them. They are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. CHARLES. E. EVANS, farmer; P. O. North Lewisburg; was born in Franklin County, Ohio, March 26, 1839; his parents, Isaac Evans and Mehala (Gray) Evans, were natives of Maryland; he remained on the farm until he was sixteen years of age, when his father having died at the advanced age of eighty-seven, he came to Logan County, and immediately went to work for ten dollars a month; a year or two after coming to this county, he began to learn the tinner's trade at Quincy, working at the same some time in DeGraff; in 1858, having served his apprenticeship, he opened a shop in Lewisburg, and by prudence and economy he was able to add to his stork, until he had a fine store and an excellent line of hardware; he continued in this business until 1878, when not being able to withstand the strong influence of his earlier training, he traded his stock for the farm upon which he now resides, however, he worked at his trade and remained with his successor for some time. In the spring of 1880, he moved on his farm, and is at present busily engaged in its improvement. On Sept. 19, 1862, he married Miss Frances J. Underwood, a native of Ohio, born May 29, 1844; from this union there were eight children-Sarah Etta, Amos, Emma, Catherine, Leroy, Fannie, Henry and Edna; of these, Amos Emma and Catherine are dead. The subject of this sketch served in the 132nd O. V. I, and did garrison duty at Bermuda Hundred, and also participated in the siege before Petersburg. All he is, and all that he possessed, comes from his own individual exertions, A careful business man-he has done much to promote the interests of his community. HIRAM GARWOOD, farmer; P. O., West Middleburg; was born in Zane Tp., Nov. 12, 1827, and began his education in the first schoolhouse built in the township. His father, Jose H. Garwood, was born in the County of Culpepper, Va., Sept. 13, 1794, and at the age of 11 he came to Ohio with his father, who stopped near Milford in 1805, and came to Zane Tp. in 1807: Jose soon after he came to Zane, followed mill-wrighting until he arrived at his majority, when his father died and he took charge of the farm. He early identified himself with the interests of the township: was the first Postmaster, was Justice of the Peace, etc. He served in the war of 1812, and on account of his superior mental acquirements was held in high esteem by his neighbors. He married Nov. 12, 1826, Miss Angeline Culver, born in Clinton, N. Y., Aug. 29, 1805, and who came to Ohio, via Pittsburg, in 1810. He was a very ZANE TOWNSHIP. - 633 successful farmer, owning at one time 427 acres of land. He died March 10, 1879. The subject of our sketch engaged in surveying for some time, but when the "gold fever " broke out, he, in 1849, left for California, and was gone for nine years. He returned, after a varied experience, to Ohio in 1857. He was booked for the fated ship Central America, but by a Providential accident failed to take passage. On his rerun he engaged in millwrighting for one year when he went to Texas, but remained there but a few month, when he went to Missouri, and there located, marrying Miss Mary Smith on Dec. 18, 1859. He engaged in the lumber business for some time, but in December, 1861, he returned to Ohio. He again returned to Missouri, in 1863, but after spending a few months he lade adieu to that country, and, coming back to his old home, located on his farm of 156 acres, and by perseverance he has improved it so that it is one of the best in the township. Mr. Garwood is one of the best posted men in pioneer history, and is a worthy son of his most worthy father. He is a member of the Masonic Order, Lodge No. 247. GIBSON GARWOOD, retired; P. O., West Middleburg; was born Nov. 21, 1834, and is the son of Jonathan Garwood, who was born in Culpepper Co., Va., April 1, 1802. His parents Daniel and Polly Garwood, whose ancestors came from the county of Northumberland, Eng., in 1698, and located in New Jersey, and in 1768 in Virginia; came to Ohio in 1805 and settled near Milford Centre, and two years later came to Zane Tp., then a part of Champaign Co. Jonathan Garwood married Miss Catherine Spears, Jan. 26, 1834. She was born in Madison Co., Dec. 29, 1815, and her father was a soldier of the Revolutionary War. There were two children, the subject of this sketch, and Marion, born Feb. 27, 1846, who joined the 17th O. V. I, Co. C., and died at Chattanooga, Tenn., March 1,1865, after faithfully serving his country. Jonathan Garwood was a successful farmer and one of the best citizens of the township. He is spoken of as a man of most uncommon public spiritedness and liberality. He died March 19, 1875, lamented by all who knew him. His widow still survives. Gibson married Miss Eliza Euans, a native of this township, on Sept. 9, 1857, and shortly after moved to Bates Co., Mo. His wife died March 20, 1861, and his only child, Ella Kate, Aug. 20, of same year. He, returned to his old home in 1865, and continued to farm until 1879, when he retired from active business, and moved to Middleburg, where he enjoys such a life as his ample means enables him to do. His agreeable ways, and kind and obliging disposition, makes him the friend of every one who knows him, and the writer of these sketches feels particularly indebted for the many contributions of items of history he has given him. He has for many years kept an accurate daily record of such things as came under his observation, which for dates, etc., is often consulted by others, and has been valuable in the completion of the history of Zane Township. He has served the township as Trustee, and was the first Superintendent of the Bellefontaine and Columbus Pike. He is a member of East Liberty Lodge F. & A. M., La Fayette Chapter N o. 60, R. A. M. and Logan Council No. 34, R. S. M. AMOS GRIFFITH HUMPHREY, carpenter; West Middleburg. Prominent among the mechanics who have added materially to the, interests of this community, may be mentioned the gentleman whose name heads this sketch; was born in Westmoreland Co., Penn., Feb. 16, 1817; he came to Garwood Mills, now East Liberty, with his parents when he was a babe; his father, Richard, and his mother, Nancy (Evans) Humphrey, were both born in Wales, the former in 1774, and the latter in 1779. They emigrated to America with two children in 1802, where the father of the subject of our sketch followed farming until his removal with his family to Ohio. Amos remained in the vicinity of Garwood Mills until 1828, when his father dying, he was compelled to seek his own living in ether directions. He worked around at farming, until 1839, when he learned the carpenters' trade, at which he has worked ever since; of his brothers, Richard enlisted in the Mexican War, probably the only man who entered that service from this locality; he enlisted in a regiment organized at Dayton, Capt. King commanding; 1st Lieut. John B. Miller. Richard died at Pariote, Mexico. His brother Jacob was a first lieutenant in the late war, and assisted in raising Company 634 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. C, 17th O. V. I; he died in December, 1862. Amos has raised a family of three children, only one of which is now living; the oldest daughter, Melissa Ann, married D. R. Sharp, of East Liberty; his son, James Stones Humphrey; married Bertha Aiken, from which union there was one son, James Allen, born Aug. 18, 1866. Amos Griffith has been a resident of Middleburg for over forty years, and has been complimented by his neighbors with several positions of trust and honor. He was a Whig in the halcyon days of that party, and then joined the Republican party; at present he is a Prohibitionist. He is a member of the Christian Union Church; he was married Dec. l3, 1840, to Hepsabeth Stokes, who was born July 1, 1816. COLONEL JOEL HAlNES, merchant: West Middleburg; was born here June 9, 1814, and is now the oldest citizen of this township, who was born here, and has always resided here; reared amid the vicissitudes of pioneer life, his advantages were limited, but with a natural genius and an indomitable will, he has kept steadily abreast of the times, leading in every advance movement for the benefit of Middleburg, and it is safe to say no man shows a more public spirit or has done as much as has Colonel Haines, for the improvement of this thriving village. Being of an inventive turn of mind he early took up the cabinet-maker's trade, at which he has worked with success for many years. He started the first woolen mill in the township, but he especially deserves credit for the many useful articles he has invented and patented, and have given him a great notoriety abroad. The first was a washing machine which gave him a start, and this was followed by about fifteen others, among which were a cheese-box, which will accurately weigh and divide the cheese, and three styles of fruit jars. He has very recently invented and applied for a patent on a show-box, for exhibiting shoes on the shelves a contrivance that will commend itself to any merchant. Previous to the civil war he had been a colonel in the militia, and when the rebellion came he raised a company, composed of the very flower of the youth of the township, which was assigned to the 17th Regt. O. V. I, as Co. C., under Col. John M. Connell, and was mustered into service Sept. 7, 1861, at Camp Dennison, and in October joined the Army of the South under Gen. Thomas, and fought Zollicoffer Oct. 21 at Camp Wild Cat. He served until June 6, 1862, when he was honorably discharged at Corinth, Miss., for physical debility. On his return home he opened a dry goods and grocery store in Middleburg; he had previous to this been elected Colonel of the 38th O. N. G., and when this regiment was called into the service, he was compelled to leave his business in the hands of one of his sons, who had been with him in the 17th regiment, and accompanied by his other boys he went with the regiment to Bermuda Hundred, where they did garrison duty. He married, Dec. 31, 1836 Miss Mary Haines, who was born Sept. 9, 1820, and whose people were among the earliest pioneers of this county; they have raised a family of four sons and one daughter - John W. born Jan. 11, 1838: Ali, Nov. 7, 1841; Isaac W., Aug. 7, 1844; William P., Feb. 14, 1846, and Clara Burton, June 8, 1864; the latter named after the lady who so kindly and tenderly nursed her father during his dangerous sickness in the hospital. She is a talented and accomplished young lady, and as a singer possesses a voice of rare sweetness and power. Col. Haines is a prominent Mason, a member of Lodge 247, Lafayette Chapter No. 60, and Logan Council No. 34 of Bellefontaine. He is at present engaged in the mercantile business at Middleburg, and is Postmaster, a position he has held many years. THOMAS J. HELLINGS, merchant; West Middleburg; for business enterprise coupled with success, no one deserves more credit in the history of Middleburg than Thomas J. Hellings, who, although a young man, is well known in this part of the county. In writing the industries of this township it is only just to say, Mr. Hellings' store, for the elegance of the goods, for the carefully selected variety and exquisite taste in the display of everything, has few equals in the county. This is all the more remarkable when it is known that it is all the growth of the past eight years. In 1872, Mr. Hellings, in connection with his father, opened a small stock in a part of the room he now occupies, which in connection with his father, and since the father's death, which occurred Sept. 1, 1878, ZANE TOWNSHIP. - 635 he has gradually increased the business until his annual sales amount to about $12,000 per year, and still increasing. To those who are acquainted with Tom's careful business habits and his very obliging disposition, treating every customer with the utmost attention and courtsey, his remarkable success is not surprising. He is the only son of Sarah Ann (Euans) Hellings, and was born in Middleburg, Oct. 8, 1848, and after receiving a common school education, he graduated at Nelson's Business College, Cincinnati, in 1866; his father, Harrison Hellings, was born in Bucks Co., Penn., Dec. 20, 1814, and was the son of John and Margaret (James) Hellings and came to Ohio in 1833, locating with his parents near Mt. Moriah Church, and a year later in Middleburg, and married Miss Sarah Ann Euans, April 4, 1838; she was born in Zane Tp., March 1, 1820; her parents, Joseph and Rhoda (Heppard) Euans, were among the first settlers in Zane Tp. From this union there were two children-Catharine Ann, born Oct. 7, 1840, and married to I. M. Sharp, a native of this township, whose family history appears elsewhere, and Tom J. the subject of this sketch. For the twenty years succeeding his marriage, Harrison followed the carpenters' trade, which he had learned in Pennsylvania: in 1858 he engaged in the saw-mill business and run a farm, continuing this about twelve years: in 1871 he opened a grocery in Bellefontaine, in connection with his son, and after about six months, removed to West Middleburg, where he continued in business as above stated, under the firm name Hellings & Son, until the time of his death. Thomas J. married Miss Amanda C. Marquis, Dec. 27, 1870. She was born in Zane Tp., Jan. 2, 1850, and is the daughter of Thomas and Mary Ann (Stephenson) Marquis, the history of whose family appears in full elsewhere. From the; union there is a daughter -Edna G., born March 18, 1874. Should you think our description of Mr. Helling's store the least overdrawn, just drop in and look through his large stock and get prices, and you will be convinced that the tenth has not been told you. He is at present the Treasurer of the township; he is also a member of East Liberty Lodge No. 247, A. F. & A. M., Star Chapter No. 126, North Lewisburg, and Logan Council No. 34, R. & S. M. LEVI INSKEEP, farmer and stock-raiser. P. O., West Middleburg. The Inskeeps are an old pioneer family who were among the first to settle in this locality, coming from Virginia; Job, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Culpepper Co., Va., and came to Ohio when he was 11 years of age. He received a, common education at the old Quaker church, and when about 25 years of age he married Miss Sarah Sharp, daughter of John Sharp and who was born in Chillicothe. Job located in Zane Township on a woody tract of 60 acres, and immediately began to improve it, adding as his financial condition would allow, until at one time he owned 510 acres of land. He served seven years as captain of militia, and was for a short time in the war of 1812. The subject of our sketch was born Sept. 5, l821, and, when 25, married Miss Sarah Jane, daughter of Henry and Rachael (Wells) Reymer. She was born in Perry Tp. May 4, 1827 and her parents were early settlers in Logan Co. Three children have blessed their union-Lucinda C., married to William A. West; Lycargus, married to Viola Grubbs, and Frank, who lives at home. Levi has an excellent farm on the famous limestone belt, rich, well watered, and possessing all the natural resources necessary to a, fine farm, it being one of the best in the township. Two hundred rods of hedge adds its attractiveness to the farm and a sugar camp of 3,000 vessels forms a paying industry. He is a successful farmer and a man that stands well in the community. RUSSELL BIGELOW JOHNSON, farmer; P. O.. West Middleburg; was born in Union Co., April 9, 1841; his father, John Johnson, was a native of Fleming Co., Ky., and in 1809 came to Ohio, settling at the head waters of the Mackachack; his first wife's name was Abigail Southard; he is a local preacher in the Methodist Protestant Church, and a large land owner. The subject of our sketch received a common school education, and after working for some time on the farm, he moved to Logan Co., settling on the line of Monroe and Zane Tp's. On April 20, 1862, he married Miss Lucetta French, who was born Nov. 27, 1841, and is a native of Logan Co.; her parents were Elijah and Hulda (Marmon) French. From this union there are two 636 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. children living-Paris Franklin, born Jan. 13, 1867, and Cassius Ellery, born Nov. 7, 1872. Russell Bigelow owns a very fine farm, well watered and with a superior under-drainage; although his land is well adapted to the raising of wheat and corn he pays more particular attention to the raising of stock; his farm also contains a sugar camp of some 500 trees, from which annually about 2,000 pounds of sugar are produced. He is a good citizen, and is esteemed by all who know him. THOMAS MARQUIS, farmer; P. O., West Middleburg; descendant from the old Irish family of that name; was born in Knox Co., O., Jan. 27, 1813. In his day they had not the advantages of a school educational system that are possessed by the children of today. His schooling was received in the little old pioneer log cabin which sat in a small clearing surrounded by the necessary concomitants of early times. His father was a farmer, and Thomas followed in his footsteps. At the age of 22 he married Miss Mary Ann Stevenson. Shortly after his marriage he moved to Zane Tp. and rented a small farm; he soon bought the farm where he now resides; when he first came into possession of the farm he found only five acres deadened all the subsequent improvements he has put on himself; he possesses 95 acres, of which 65 acres are under excellent cultivation and produce abundantly; the land is well watered and drained; he has on the farm a fine orchard, and a "camp" of 350 tree, manufacturing annually about 800 pounds of sugar; he, however, pays attention to stock-raising. He has raised a family of eight, seven of whom are living-William Stevenson and Elizabeth Jane are married and living in Iowa; Melissa is dead; Newell, Samuel and Oliver are married and Live in Zane Tp.; Amanda C. and Silas W. also live in this township. Newell, conjointly with his father, parries on the farm. Thomas Marquis has achieved all his success from hard work. He has held various positions of trust in the township, and enjoys the happiness of an industrious Christian farmer. JAMES MARQUIS, retired farmer; West Middleburg. Men are a success who win, and of those who by their industrious and intense application to business have now not only a large share of this world's goods, but what is better the golden opinion and guard of their neighbors. The subject of this sketch and his loving wife stand second to none. He was born in Knox Co., Ohio, Aug. 27, 1810, and entering Logan Co. in 1827, located at Bellefontaine, which at that time contained but few houses, and was not as large as West Middleburg; he received what education he then possessed in Knox Co., and after reaching Bellefontaine, began to learn the black-smithing trade; he worked at his trade for a number of years, and it was while working at his vocation drat he assisted in the task of shoeing the Indian ponies belonging to the Wyandot Nation, on the departure of drat tribe for the far West; in 1834 he bought the land he now own, and in 1840 moved upon the same. At the time there were but few improvements on the land, and he immediately began to fix things up, and has continued to carefully cultivate the same until he has an excellent farm, well drained and well watered. He also possesses valuable property near Middleburg; he married, Dec. 9, 1840, Lydia Ann Dickinson, born Sept. 10, 1821, and it must be confessed that a large share of his success in life is attributable to her energy, economy and loving interest. Her grandfather was an early settler in Ohio, entering the State in 1806. Her father, Richard, and mother, Margaret (Henry) Dickinson, were married Oct. 27, 1817, and are still living, probably the oldest couple that have always lived in this county. Lydia Ann gained her education by going to a. subscription school three miles from her house, where, inn log cabin, with greased paper over an aperture in lieu of glass, instruction was given to the whites and Indians. They have raised a family of two boys and two girl, namely-Richard Addison, born in 1841; Erastus, 1846; Bell, 1849; Retta, 1860. Mr. and Mrs. Marquis, with their youngest daughter, now reside in the village of Middleburg, but Mr. Marquis' active disposition still impels to devote a good share of his time to the care of his property. SAMUEL MARQUIS, deceased; was born in Shenandoah Co., Va., June 16, 1807 and was the son of William and Elizabeth (Newell) Marquis, who moved to Knox Co., O., when Samuel was a babe. He married Miss Lucinda Axtell, who was born March 29,1808. Her parents, Lincoln and Sarah (Martin) ZANE TOWNSHIP. - 637 Axtell, were born in New Jersey, and as well as Mr. Marquis' parent, were of Irish descent and moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio and settled near Martinsburg, where she was married Dec. 30, 1828. They moved to Logan Co. and settled on the farm where Mrs. Marquis now lives, where they raised a family of ten children, nine of whom are now living-William Maxwell, Sarah Ann (married to Daniel Gorham) Thomas Newell, Daniel Martin, Elizabeth (dead), Julia (married to Samuel Ray), Francis Marion, James Harvey, Samuel Hamilton and Argus Jackson. Here Mr. Marquis cleared up his farm of 70 acres and an adjoining one of 80 acres. He was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, and died May 1, 1865. With Mrs. Marquis resides her granddaughter, Mary Francis, daughter of Thomas and Hulda (Curl) Marquis, who was born a mute, March 16, 1866. She went to Columbus in 1874 to receive instruction in the asylum, and now writes readily, and is above the average in intelligence, and can do all sorts of work. It was not discovered that she was a mute until the was 3 years of age. A. W. MORTON, farmer ; P. O., West Middleburg. Among the prominent and successful farmers Mr. Morton ranks with the first. He was born in Columbiana Co., O., July 3l, 1832. His father, Israel Morton, was born in Pennsylvania, and mother, Hannah(Conn) Morton, in New Jersey. When A. W. was 6 years old his father moved to the village of Westville, where he kept a hotel nine years. He then moved to his farm, and one year later to Zane Tp., which was in 1848, and located on the farm now owned by Edmund Outland. The subject of our biography was married July 4, 1861, to Miss Sarah A. Inskeep, daughter of Job Inskeep, a native of Culpepper Co., Va., and came here among the very first settler, with his father, Joshua, who figured prominently in the early history of Zane Tp. Mrs. Morton was born March 5th, 1840. They have a family of three girls-Etta May, Rosa Myrtle and Edna Gertrude. Mr. Morton had an offer for an education for the law, but chose rather to follow the plow, in which he has achieved uncommon success. At the time of his marriage he had no land, and after purchasing a farm he found himself in debt to the amount of about $5,000, with assets only about $1,200, but by careful attention to hi business he managed in the course of four and a half years to clear his entire indebtedness, His farm now consists of 263 acres of good land, well watered and under-drained, and especially adapted to wheat-growing, in which he has been an exceedingly successful producer. He has a sugar-camp of about 2,000 vessel, and produces about 4,000 pounds annually, He is a member of I. O. O. F. Lodge No. 268, North Lewisburg. As a citizen, everyone speaks in the highest terms of Mr. Morton. EDMUND OUTLAND, farmer and stock raiser; P. O., West Middleburg. Of the self made men of Zane Tp. who have "dug their property out of the ground," Edmund Outland occupies a prominent and leading position. Commencing with only 75 cents, his success and present high position is but a just tribute to his industry. His father, Josiah, was one of the pioneers of this locality, and was a large land owner. He raised a family of eleven boys and gave each of them a farm, with the single exceptions of Edmund, who, for some reason, was left without a start, and to-day Edmund may attribute his success in a great measure to the fact, that he was compelled to work and save. Edmund was born November 29, 1814. At the age of twenty years and six months he married Rachel Stratton who was born in Zane Township, Oct. 7, 1813. Her parents, Joel and Rebecca (Ray) Stratton, were among the earliest settlers in this locality, coming from Culpepper Co., Va., as early as 1806. The result of the union of Edmund and Rachael was six sons and six daughters. Amizetta, Henry, Olive, John, Caroline and Charlotte are married and well settled in life. When Edmund first began, he rented the farm where he now lives for two year, and managed, in the meantime, to raise enough money to make one payment. He began $6,000 in debt and in eight years Iraq liquidated all incumbrances. At present he clears $1,000 a year. He owns 254 1/2 acres in one body of excellent land, being one of the best watered farms in this locality, there being no less than twenty-two running springs on his land. The land is also well drained and being part of the limestone belt, possesses the richness of that famous ridge in 638 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. the production of wheat and corn. His farm, however, is the leading stock farm in this township, he making a specialty of hogs and sheep. There is a "camp" of 3,000 vessel, which produced in the spring of 1880, 9,000 lbs. of sugar. He has good fruit and all the comforts of a well-kept and productive farm. He is an exhorter in the Quaker Church, while his wife is a Free Will Baptist. ISAAC PAINTER, farmer; P. O., North Lewisburg. "Uncle Isaac," as everybody calls the generous, warm hearted old gentleman whose name , heads this sketch, was born in Frederick Co., Va., Dec. 5, 1809, and is one of the few survivors of that noble band of pioneers who helped make this country what it is to-day. His father, Abraham Painter, was born Nov. 1, 1781, and Sarah (Branson) Aug. 8, 1785. When he was two years of age his parents started to Ohio in a one-horse cart, and came as far as Lancaster, O., where they remained over winter, and where another son, Walter, was born; his father then came to Garwood's Mills, now East Liberty, and engaged in the mill here; his father's family consisted of five boys and three girls, of whom Isaac was the only one who ever located in Zane, as it is now; his father moved to Jefferson Tp., where he died, Sept. 4, 1834, having been one of the first pioneers in Perry Tp.; then a part of Zane, and was also one of the first in Jefferson, and was a soldier of the war of 1812, as mentioned in the history of the township. Isaac married Miss Hope Ballinger, Sept. 22, 1833, who was the daughter of Henry Ballinger, a pioneer; she was born Dec. 11, 1811. They forthwith located on the farm where he now resides, consisting of 50 acres, then entirely in the woods, and which he paid for with his own tabor. From this marriage there were four sons-Henry, born May 22, 1835, Thomas L., July 26, 1837; Isaac B., March 26, 1845; James Wesley Dec. 20, 1846; all now married, and the two oldest now settled in this township. His first wife dying, he married Miss Augusta Martin, Feb. 2, 1852; she was born Aug. 21, 1832, and is an accomplished and estimable Lady, and formerly a teacher. They have two children-Elizabeth Jane, born Feb. 20,1853, and Benjamin Eeverett, July 18,1867. He has served as Township Trustee, and is a member of Lodge 546, I. O. O. F., North Lewisburg; he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1830, and he and his wife are members of Mt. Moriah Church. ISRAEL POOL, carpenter and contractor; West Middleburg. To maintain the confidence and respect of one's fellow citizens to such a degree as to be continuously kept in one office for more than twenty years, is certainly creditable to anyone; such is the history of the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. He was born in Beaver Co., Pa., Oct. 8, 1826. His parents were Phineas and Ann (Young) Pool, natives of Pennsylvania, the latter of Bucks Co., and came to Columbiana Co., O., when Isreal and his twin brother Joseph were 18 months old, where both were brought up to the carpenter trade, which they still follow in partnership, and many of the best public and private buildings in this township were built by them, among the former Union Chapel, Christian Church, and Mt. Moriah rebuilt, which attests the superiority of their workmanship. He married Miss Mary W. Fast, .daughter of Joshua and Susanna Fast, in 1849. She was born in Virginia, June 7, 1831. From this union there are five children, as follows - Isaac N.; Sarah Jane, married Oliver Marquis: Joseph E.; Charles Sumner, and Lewis Mc. He came to Zane Tp. in 1855, and was elected Justice of the Peace soon after, a position which he has ever since held. Of late years he has acted as peacemaker more than the presiding officer of the court, in every case, whenever it was possible, inducing his neighbors to settle their disputes without coming to trial, thereby saving costs and unpleasantness. Although Squire Pool received only a common school education, he has by careful reading and study, aided by a wonderfully retentive memory become one of the best informed men of the country on history, law and general literature, aud his advice and judgement are frequently sought. Although not a professional politician, he is well posted on the issues of the day, and occasionally takes the stump for the Republican party, of which he is an ardent supporter; and being a close thinker and clear reasoner, his speeches are spoken of as credit able affairs. He served several months as a member of the 132nd O. V. I, in the capacity Regimental Clerk. ZANE TOWNSHIP. - 639 I. M. SHARP, deceased. Culpepper Co., Va., has furnished its quota to the solid farming citizens of Zane, and the sons of the Old Dominion reflect credit and honor upon their Mother State. Among the pioneers who came to this locality about l803 was John Sharp, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, who, moving from Virginia at the beginning of the present century, settled first in Ross Co., and at about the above-mentioned date, came to what is now Zane Tp.. John Sharp's son, Isaac, was born in Virginia, and came to this section with his father. His wife: was Jane Sharp, the subject of this sketch was born Dec. 21. 1834, and remained with his father until his 26th year. On Feb. 7, 1861, he married Miss Catherine Ann Helling's, who was born Oct. 7, 1840; he located upon the farm which he occupied at the time of his death in 1861, and, aided by the industry of his wife, cleared and improved the farm, consisting of 63 acres, until at present it is in good condition, well drained and exhibiting the care and prudence of a good farmer in the out-buildings, fences, etc. On July 22, 1879, Mr. Sharp died, leaving his wife the care of four children-Mary E., born Dec. 19, 1861; William M., Sept. 20, 1863: Charles M., Dec. 4, 1864, and David M., May 20, 1866. She also has entire care and supervision of the farm which, with its large sugar "camp'' of 1,100 buckets, is no small matter. She ships her own sugar, sells her own corn and wheat, and, in fact, transacts all the business appertaining to a flourishing farm. At the time of his death Mr. Sharp was a Trustee of the township, he was also Steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which denomination he had been a member since his 14th year. JOHN DOWNS SHARP, farmer; was born in Zane Tp., Aug. 29, 1831. His father, Job Sharp was born in Culpepper Co., Va.. June 14, 1792. and came to Ohio with his father, John Sharp, an old Revolutionary soldier, as early as 1802, settling in Ross Co., from thence removed into what is now Logan Co., about 1803, where his father, John Sharp, died at the advanced age of 98 years. Job Sharp married Miss Sarah Ann Haine, a native of New Jersey, who was born Oct. 15, 1803. From this union there were nine children. He was in the war of 1812, was a successful farmer, having at one time 237 acres of land, and in politics he was an old line Whig: John Downs Sharp, remained with his father until the 26th year of his age. In l857 he married Amanda E. Kennedy, a native of Logan Co., whose parents came from Brown Co. at an carly day. From this union there were three children, two only surnamely-Job Nelson, born June 8, 186l, and James Owen, born March 26, 1872. John Downs Sharp has a farm of about 100 acres, well under-drained, forming excellent wheat land. He has a camp of 400 trees and a fine orchard. Part of this farm is surrounded by a hedge, which, together with other improvements, materially increases its value, which at present is about $65 an acre, J. D. Sharp is a member of Lodge. 546, I. O. O. F., and in politics is a Republican. CARMAN CHAMPION STOKES, physician; West Middleburg; was born in East Liberty, O., June 2, 1849, and is descended from one of the oldest and most in families in this township, and in his successful professional and business career sustains the family reputation in every respect; his grandfather, Joseph Stokes, came here from Culprpper Co., Va., in 1808, and located on the farm where the father of Dr. Stokes, Joseph Stokes, Jr., was born, Oct. 25, 1825; his mother: Susan (Austin) Stokes, was also a native of Logan Co. When he was four years of age his parents moved to Zanesfield, and here young Stokes attended school, and in 1861 they again moved to Middleburg, where he completed his common school education, and entered the Ohio Wesleyan University Delaware, O., in 1867, where he remained about a year. The year following. he entered the office of Dr. William T. Sharp, and spent two years in the study of medicine and then went South and spent a year to regain his lost health; here he visited numerous battlefields and other points of war interest. Returning with renewed health, he entered the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, where he graduated, June 20, 1874 he located in the practice of medicine in Newton, where he remained two years and yielding to the entreaties of his numerous friend, he came then to Middleburg, where his well-known abilities as a physician soon gained him a large practice. His business increasing 640 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. beyond his abilities to give it proper attention, he invited his brother-in-law, Dr. D W. Sharp, to share it. He was induced by the demand for a drug store to open one here, in the spring of 1870, which at once commanded a good patronage, while at the same time he retains his large practice, Dr. Stokes married Miss Mary Sharp, Sept. 4, 1873. She is the daughter of Joshua B. and Catharine (Norviel), whose history appears under the sketch of Dr. D. W. Sharp, and was born April 20, 1850. They have one child, Estella, born July 9, 1874. He is a member of Lodge 247, A. & F. M. Much of the history of this township is the result of Dr. Stokes' research. DAVID WICKLIFF SHARP, physician; West Middleburg; a great-grandson of Job Sharp, the first white settler in Logan Co., was born April 24, 1848, on the farm of historic fame, first settled by his ancestors; his father, Jonathan B., was also born here, Oct. 18, 1821, where he followed farming and afterwards mercantile pursuit, and for a short time served in the late rebellion, and was, prominently identified with the history of the township; he married Catharine (Norviel) April 26, 1843, who was born in Medina Co., O., March, 11, 1825. They raised a family of whom four grew to the estate of man. Dr. Sharp received an education in the schools of this vicinity, and attended the Ohio Wesleyan University during the years 1864 and 1865, after which he returned to engage in business in this place with his father, who was in the dry goods trade; he began the study of medicine in 1870, under Dr. Sharp, of this place, and entered the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery in 1873, and graduated in 1874; soon after this he entered upon the practice of his profession at Pottersburg, Union Co. locating there July 14,1874; he married Miss Mary Charlotte Stewart, Oct. 15, 1874; she was born in Lowell, Mahoning Co., Ohio., Nov. 2, 1852. There is one child from this union, Willie Howard, born July 15, 1876. In 1879, he left Pottersburg, and returned to Middleburg, and has had a growing practice among the people with whom he was reared, and although they familiarly address him as "Wick," yet as a physician he has their utmost confidence and is recognized as one of the most promising members of the profession in which he takes so much pride, and in which he has been in the highest sense successful; he has many of the qualities which peculiarly adapts him for this particular calling, as well as the elements which would make him successful in any undertaking. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, of which his father was also a member, and belongs to Lodge No. 247, at East Liberty. GEORGE W. STOKES, farmer and teacher; P. O., North Lewisburg. " Full many a gem, of purest ray serene. The dark, unfathomed caves of ocean bear." We often find persons with tact rather than talent, filling the learned professions, where merit should be the measure, while those whose natural gifts and acquirements really fit them for such position, quietly pursue a retired life. Of the latter comes to our mind the name of George W. Stoke, whom we first met at college. He early evinced more than an ordinary aptness for learning, which, with a studious disposition, soon placed him far in advance of the boys of his age. Having exhausted the curriculum of the country school, he spent two years at the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, and even here what was a task of hours to others was but a few minutes' work to him, such was his power to grasp the most intricate subjects. Indeed, in his mind there is a remarkable combination of the power of close mathematical reasoning and an exceedingly retentive memory; hence, it would be difficult to find one so familiar as he with the details of ancient and modern history, so accurate is he as to dates and statements. He was born in Union Co., Sept. 17, 1847. His father, John Stokes, was born in Zane Tp., Nov. 18, 1818, and married July 4, 1840, Miss Emma Holly, born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., May 18, 1818. Four children blessed the union-Oliver, George Weaver, Abram Holly, and Arminta Jane. The first is a well-to-do farmer of Union Co.; the second is the subject of this biography, and the two younger are still with their parents. George, on his return from college in 1868, taught school, which he has followed up to the present time during the winter, excepting two year, and almost exclusively in his home district; such is the attachment of his neighbors among whom he ZANE T0WNSHIP. - 641 has grown up. On Independence Day, 1874, he led to the altar Miss Maria Elizabeth Cowgill, who was born in Union Co., Nov. 20, 1850, a descendant of one of the pioneers and an accomplished, amiable woman, of more than ordinary intellectual acquirements. Two sweet children came to their home to gladden their hearts-Willard Byron, born Nov. 9, 1879; Florence Gale, Jan. 20, 1873. Six years of happy married life was given the m, but ere the seventh had begun, early in the spring of 1880, George Stokes was called to see pass from this life she who had been to him all a true and loving wife could be. The shock was almost greater than he could bear, and it was months ere he recovered from the effects of the ordeal. His residence is on the farm originally improved by John Warner in1809. The Stokes are from the very best families of "Old Virginia," and his grandfather, who had married Phoebe Euan, came to Zane Tp., it is said, as early as 1805, when there were not a dozen white settlers here. He was one of the first to engage in sugar making on a large scale. He served with distinction in the war of 1812; and was a stirring, successful man, and was usually known as Capt. Stokes. He raised a family of three sons and five daughters, SAMUEL WARNER, retired ; Pottersburg. Of all that noble band of pioneers to whom Zane Tp. owes so much of what she is today, none remain of those who came here at the dawn of civilization, except "Uncle Sam Warner." He was born near the little town, Lumberton, on the Naucopus River in the State of New Jersey, May 28, l803, and in May, 1809 his parents started for Ohio, then the "Far West," with their family, consisting of Isaac, then fifteen years old, and David and Jesse, younger than Samuel, and daughters Polly, Hannah and Ann, landing at John Warners, in Zane, July 26, 1809, sick and tired. Of what they, in common with other pioneers suffered, we of to-day, surrounded by the luxuries of the 19th century, have no conception. He attended school about two weeks at the old schoolhouse at Inskeep's Mill, with its batten door and puncheon floor, and this completed his schooling, but not his education; his was too active a mind not to surmount such disadvantage, hence we find him well informed on all subjects and an encyclopedia of pioneer life. In 1812 he moved to the north part of the township and followed shoemaking awhile, but in his own language, his principal occupation has been to follow the plow. On July 4, 1826, he married Miss Plebe, eldest daughter of Joshua Sharp, born May 29, 1809, and the second female child born in Zane Tp. Here he resided over forty year, raising a family of three children; Abaishai I., born Dec. 12, 1828 ; Keturah, Oct. 13, 1830; married D. S. Norvill, and died Jan. 25, 1880; and Miller, born Sept. 6th, 1832. In 1873, Sam Warner sold his farm and went to live with his younger son at Pottersburg. The latter married Frances Norvill, Dec. 28, 1854. She was born Dec. 2, 1835, in Medina Co. Her father William, was a native of Connecticut and her mother, Diantha (Holly) Norvill, of New York State, and were married January 1, 1834. He followed farming until 1871, when he moved to Pottersburg and opened a dry goods store the following year, just as the town was opening up. His business career, which opened under so favorable auspices, was most seriously interfered with by three years' sickness. His disease was diphtheria, which, after trying many remedies, he found one which effectually cured him, and which he generously offers free to any one. He, however, continued to sell goods, and farmed until 1875. He then sold his store, and has since then been giving especial attention to farming and breeding thorough-bred cattle, hogs and sheep. He is familiar with the stock business, having been engaged in that business when a young man he has a good farm of 100 acres in Allen Tp., Union Co., and town property. He is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican party, as is also his father, who, like his father Abaishai to whom reference is made in the general history of Zane Tp., was an old line Whig. For generosity and hospitality the Warn are fine exponents of the customs of pioneer life. BENJAMIN WILSON, farmer; P. O., West Middleburg. Among the influential and prominent citizens of Zane Tp., whom it is a pleasure to note, have always occupied a front position in the rapid advance of this section. 642 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. Benjamin Wilson, by his energetic application to business, and the promotion of the industries of his community, deserves more than passing notice. Descendant from that good Irish family of Wilsons who have added so much to the wealth of Zane Tp., he of course, necessarily partakes of their signal energy. He was born in County Kings, Parish of Gillen, Ireland, Nov. 7, 1815. The sketch of his father will be found in another portion of this work. In his father's family there were four boys and seven girls. The unfortunately was left fatherless at an early age, and receiving a common school education, he began to work to help support his mother and sisters, and continued to help support them until 1839, when he came to America and worked in New York about a year. He then came to Milford Centre. In 1842 he married Elizabeth Curl, daughter of Charles Curl, whose sketch appears in another section of this work. For about twelve years he rented his land and then, having accumulated a sufficient sum of money, he bought out the farm upon which he now resides. The farm consisted of 100 acres, to which he added until at one time he owned about 400 acres. He has since, however, given to his children and bought land, so that at present he owns 365 acres of excellent land, well wattered, with three miles of under-drainage The land is well adapted to the raising of corn and wheat: Mr. Wilson being the largest wheat grower in this township; he has "camps" of 4,500 vessels. He started with just $5, and his farms pay homage to his prudence. He has a family of five children - Thomas A., Charles C., John E., Freeland and Maneti, who married Sylvester Devore, Benjamin is a member of the Episcopal Church, and is strong in the faith of the Mother Church. He is Republican. THOMAS M. WILSON, retired farmer; forth Lewisburg: was born in Parish Gillen. County Kings, Ireland, Dec. 27, 181 9, and by occupation is a farmer; he emigrated to America at the age of 27, and after his passage was paid, had not a cent of money, owing for the clothes he had on his back; he worked his way to Zane Tp., where his brother resided, and worked for him and various other parties for some time. When the "gold fever " broke out he started for the diggings, crossing the plains with a wagon train, consuming three months and twenty-one days in his passage to California he remained there for two years, and having accumulated $3,500 in gold; he returned by steamer to New York, and from thence to his home in Zane Tp.; he, true to his instincts, immediately bought a farm of 110 acre, to which he has since added as his pecuniary condition would allow until he now possesses the best improved and most valuable farms in this locality, where a good farm is the rule and a poor one the exception. Upon his farm is a valuable sugar camp; he has put in 1,000 rods of tiling which forms an excellent drain, while to add to the attractions of the farm he possesses, in the Big Branch, a supply of water indispensable to a stockman, Sept. 18, 1858, he married Miss Maria L. Moore; she was born in New Jersey, her parents coming to Zane Tp. when she was a child; her parent were among the first pioneers of Zane, and among the first Methodist, and have always identified themselves with the growth of-the township; his brother, Edmund Moore, and her brother-in-law, Job Bishop, being especially noted for their zeal and progressive spirit, the latter especially being a wide-awake, intelligent and enthusiastic farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are now enjoying their well-earned ease at their home in North Lewisburg, contributing their share to every good work; are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. ALONZO P. WEST, farnier: P. O., West Middlebnvrg. In noting among the younger men those who independently, by their industry ans strict business principles, have accumulated wealth and added to the reputation of Zane Tp. Alonzo P. West is especially distinguished for the prominent position he has taken in the material advancement of his township. He was born in Liberty Tp., May 11, 1846. His father was born May 14, 1818, in Massachusetts and came to Ohio with his father, where he married Miss Ann Norvill, also a native of Massachusetts; Alonzo received a limited education, attend school about two months in the year until he was 17 years old, when he entered the army. He joined Co. C., 17th O. V. I, and served two years. He participated in the battles of Mission Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Resacca, Kenesaw Mountain, and a number of ZANE TOWNSHIP - 643 minor engagements in North and South Carlina. While on picket duty near Atlanta, Ga., he was wounded, and remained one month in the hospital. He relates an amusing incident of a foraging expedition soon after his recovery. He and a few others left the camp, and, after scouring the country, returned with quite a load of provisions. While crossing the river near Galesville, the boat upset and the men lost all their provisions, the heavier articles going to the bottom and the ducks, etc. going down stream with the current. The same night they reached the camp and for some time the joke was on them. On his return from the war he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University, where he remained but a short time, and then attended Northwood College for one term. After this he taught school for four winters. He bought the present farm from his father, in connection with his brother Allen, and after running it awhile conjointly with him, bought him out and became sole proprietor. Mr. West. was married Feb. 5, 1871, Miss Hettie Inskeep, who was a native of Van Buren Co., Iowa, but whose parents, Edward and Isabelle (Downs) Inskeep, were early settlers in Zane Tp. Mrs. West was a teacher about five years previous to her marriage. Alonzo's farm consists of 120 acres of excellent land, and is one of the oldest improved farms in Zane Tp., having been settled in 1807. The buildings, although built as early as 1820, are in good preservation, having been built by Joshua Inskeep. There are about 250 rods of hedge around the farm. He has a camp of 1,200 trees, from which he produced about 5,000 pounds of sugar annually. He pays, however particular attention to stock-raising. He has two children- Earl, born Jan. 21, 1872, and Fred, Jan. 2, 1880. JOHN WILSON, Partner; P. O., forth Lewisburg; was born in County Kings, Parish of Glllen, Ireland, April 3, 1824. Hrs parents were John and Mary (Murphy) Wilson, and he was reared a farmer; be received a moderate education in Ireland, but was compelled to give the greater share of his attention to the farm, upon which he remained until he was 26 years of age, when he emigrated to America on the steamship Silas Greenman; he landed at New York amidst all the bewildering influences of that bustling city. Keeping steadily in view, however, the grand purpose of his life, he started for Ohio, reaching Zane Tp. about a year after his handing at Castle Garden. In three years after his arrival in Zane Tp., such was his indefatigable zeal and energy, he had saved enough money to purchase a farm of 50 acres, paying $800 down and liquidating the balance by working his farm. Soon after locating in this township he married Ann Lowe, also a native of Ireland. From this union there are six boys and one girl-Thomas, Mary, John, George, Benjamin, James and Edward, all now living and residing at home. About 1871 he purchased the farm on the Lewisburg Pike, formerly belonging to Widow More, paying for the same $6,000, mostly money down, which he had made on his farm. Aug. 28, 1873, his wife, to whom he was devotedly attached, died. She was an estimable lady, and no small share of his success is attributed to the care, prudence and economy of his faithful companion, and in justice to Mr. Wilson be it said that he ever recognized her character and felt her loss as only a loving husband could. Mr. Wilson's farm is at present under excellent cultivation. He has a fine home, with all the comforts of a thrifty and well-to-do farmer. His sugar camp consists of 800 trees. JOHN R. WILSON was born in Ireland,. July 9, 1846, and came to America with his mother when he was 8 years of age. His father, Edward Wilson, was born in County Kings, Parish Gillen, June 11, 1814. The father of the subject of our sketch, in his 26th year, married Margaret Larkin, and in 1851 he emigrated to America leaving his family at their home in Ireland compelled to do so from a lack of funds to pay their passage to this continent: For the first few months after reaching America, he remained in the East, earning by daily labor, money to support his wife and family in Ireland; but gradually working westward, he in October, 1851, reached Zane Tp. After becoming permanently settled he sent for his family, and they came over, reaching here about 1854. Settling to work with all the ardor and zeal of a man who appreciates the privilege of independence America, he soon accumulated quite a sum of money, which unfortunately was lost. Coming from a stock which knew 644 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. no such word as discouragement, he, thanking God for his good health, set to work again, and in 1861 had earned and saved enough money to buy a. farm of 133 acres, excellent land, now one of the best in the township. John R. Wilson, partaking of the energetic character of his father, has a fine farm of 137 1/2 acres, upon which he lives with his wife, a charming lady, whom he married June 6, 1878. Her maiden name was Miss Susan Ann Fox, and her parents came from Penn at quite an early date. Mr. Wilson is a member of the Lewisburg Lodge of Free Masons, and of Maple Grove Lodge of Grangers. SETH S. WlNDER, farmer; P. O., North Lewisburg; was born December 11, 1841. His father, Thomas Winder, was born Dec 24, 1804, in Ross Co., Ohio: The latter's father, Abner Winder, came from Pennsylvania and was one of the pioneers of the Northwestern territory, settling in Ross Co. about the beginning of the present century. His wife was a Ballinger. Thomas Winder came to Logan Co. in 1841, purchasing 317 acres of land. The only improvements upon the same consisted of a double log cabin, and two old log stables. He married Hannah Wildman, who was born in Clark Co. Sept. 12, 1802. By this union there were ten children. Seth S. was reared amidst all the influences of a primal but progressive farming district. He received a common school education, spend six months in the High School, besides one term at Earlham College, Richmond, Ind. Returning home he again entered upon his father's farm, remaining with him until he was 27 years of age, when he married Maggie A. Linville, who was a native of Champaign Co., and whose parents J. H. Linville and Ann (Pennington) Linville were respected settlers of that county. The subject of our sketch now possesses a farm of 108 acres, well watered, very productive and adapted also to the raising of stock. He has two children-Aldina born Sept. 28, 1873, and Seneca, Jan. 23, 1879. The Winders have always been among the first to promote and encourage all those improvements which are necessary to the advancement, growth and ultimate wealth of any community. Being Quakers they partake of the integrity and industry so characteristic of that sect, and their excellent and valuable farms are fitting tributes to industry and perseverance. Thomas Winder is still living, a hale old man of 76. Time has dealt lightly with him and to-day he enjoys the robust health which a long life of temperance and happiness, together with honest toil naturally gives a man. On every hand he beholds his sons, progress and influential farmers. Our Edward Winder has done much to increase the reputation of the county as a breeder of fine wool sheep. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN WIRICK, deceased was born Aug. 7, 1833; in Columbiana Co., and came to Logan Co. when he was 10 years of age, locating in Zane Tp. On Feb. 7, 1856, he married Mary E. Green, born in Logan Co., Dec. 17, 1834. She was the daughter of George R. Green, who was born in Kentucky in 1798, and who came to Logan Co. with his father in 1806. George Green married Ruth Williams, a native of Virginia, who settled in Logan Co. with her parents in 1811, and raised a family of thirteen children. George Green was a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife was raised a Friend, but joined the Methodist Episcopal Church. The result of the union of B. F. Wirick and Mary E. Green was two children-Sarah Jane and Benjamin Franklin. Sarah Jane married George Bushong, and had by him two children- one only, Lulu Ellen, surviving. The mother died Jan. 16, 1880. B. F. Wirick was a member of the 180th Reg. O. V. I, and served eleven months to the close of the war. He died Oct. 9, 1877. His wife lives on a beautiful farm of 141 acre, well watered, and contains a fine sugar camp, from which annually about 4 000 pounds of sugar are produced. There is an excellent orchard, producing abundantly fruits in their season, and the buildings show the care of a well regulated farm. J. W. YOUNG, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., West Middleburg; was born in Columbiana Co., June 11, 1838, and came to Logan Co., when he was 12 years of age; his father was of Irish extraction and was born in 1810, in Beaver Co., Penn.; he followed teaming over the mountains until about his twenty-first year, when he located in Columbiana Co., Ohio, and married Miss Ann Walton, born Aug. 25, PERRY TOWNSHIP - 645 1813. They raised a family of nine children, of whom four are now living; J. W. Young married Miss Amanda P. Outland, April 13, 1862; Robert, her father, was born in Zane Tp., Nov. 27, 1808, and died Sept. 1, 1871; her mother, Martha (Freer), was horn in Virginia, Dec. 26, 1808, in Gates Co., and came, to Ohio with her parents when a small child, and located in Warren Co., and died in Zane Tp., April 21, 1880. The former was raised a Friend and the latter a Methodist. Mr. Young's farm consists of 108 acres, well watered and under drained, and under the very best state of cultivation, with good buildings. He belongs to the most advance class of progressive farmers, and never hesitates to take advance's of any improvement; he has raised as much as seventy-two bushels of corn to an acre; he has lately turned his attention to fine wool sheep, and has, perhaps, the best flock in the township, the majority them costing about $100 each, and are registered in the Vermont Register; he has a choice collection of fruit, especially cherries and plums; he served about four mouths in the 132nd O. V. I, and was Township Trustee five years; he is a member of East Liberty Lodge F. & A. M. No. 247, and Star Chapter No. 126. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) |