BIOGRAPHICAL - 625 broke down. a year previous to his death. Although possessed of only a common school education, Mr. Cooney became an unusually well-informed and well-read man, by dint of close study and application. His literary tastes led him to the classic masterpieces, and poetry in particular delighted and charmed him. His library, gradually collected through a considerable period, is one of the finest in Toledo and embraces many volumes of the highest historic and scientific authorities. Mr. Cooney was endowed by nature with a high order of business sagacity and intelligence and was soon recognized as a man of sterling worth by the city. of Toledo. Politically, he was a loyal and enthusiastic Democrat, although he never allowed his better judgment to be obscured by partisanship. Twice he was elected alderman from the Second ward, usually strongly Republican, and he served three terms as president of the City Council. an excellent evidence of his general popularity. In 1887 Mr. Cooney filled a vacancy as county auditor. In the discharge of his public duties, as in his private affairs, Mr. Cooney was punctillious. honorable, broad-minded and energetic. His work was accomplished in a quiet, unassuming manner and with unfailing fidelity to duty. He was in every respect a self-made man, and his career illustrates most forcibly what can be accomplished by firmness of character and industrious effort. Although Michael J. Cooney has passed from earth and his kindly face is seen no more, his name lives in the city of his adoption in the affectionate memories of those for whom he faithfully labored. Mr. Cooney was a consistent and devoted member of St. Francis De Sales Roman Catholic Church. a trustee of that congregation and a liberal contributor toward church enterprises, both parochial and missionary. He prized most highly a medal presented to him as a special appreciation of his efforts toward lessening the church debt and his liberal contribution toward that object. The medal was one issued by the Pope to commemorate the visit of Father Quigley to Rome. In 1861 Mr. Cooney married Miss Joanna McCarthy. Seven children blessed the union, all of whom were present at the bedside of their father before his death, except William F. Cooney, of Chicago. who was unable to reach home before the final parting of the spirit from its earthly habitation. Mrs. Cooney is still living at the old home, at 712 Ontario street ; she is a woman highly esteemed for her benevolence, generosity and sympathetic nature and is an object of the greatest devotion on the part of her children. Geo. A. Dennis, an enterprising and progressive railroad man of Toledo, was born in Boston. England, May 6, 1865. He is the son of Andrew and Sarah (Johnson) Dennis. both of whom were born and have always resided in England. their present abode being at Lincoln, Lincolnshire. The paternal grandparents of the subject of this review were Granger and Elizabeth (Epton) Dennis, the former of whom was born Jan. 3, 1803, and died May 28, 1887, and the latter was born Aug. 12. 1805, and died Sept. 11, 1885. The paternal great-grandparents were Andrew and Sarah Dennis, the former born Jan. 23. 1775, and the latter Oct. 626 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY 24, 1779. The maternal grandparents of our subject were James and Sarah Johnson, the grandfather having been connected with a grain warehouse at Boston, England, where he died at the age of thirty-two, and his wife was born at Sutton-on-Trent, England, and died in Boston, England, at the age of eighty-four. Granger Dennis and wife were the parents of seven children : Richard, deceased, was a farmer and resided at Owosso, Mich.; John, who was a sailor, was drowned at sea ; William, deceased, was a farmer and resided at Owosso, Mich.; Andrew is the father of the subject of this review, and is living retired at Lincoln, England ; Elizabeth is the deceased wife of William H. Epton, of Henderson, Mich., and Joseph and George are farmers and reside at Owosso, Mich. Andrew Dennis, our subject's father, was born on a farm near Stickney, England, Aug. 30. 1833, and his wife was born in Boston, England. March 13, 1841. Andrew assisted his father on the farm until he had reached early manhood, and then he was employed by the Great Northern railroad, in the engineering service, a position from which he retired in 1900. He has lived a very religious life, having been a class leader and member of the Wesleyan Methodist church over sixty years. His people were all farmers and resided near Boston, England. To him and his good wife there were born eight children, of whom the following specific mention may he made : Elizabeth is deceased ; Geo. A. is he to whom this review is more particularly dedicated ; William is deceased ; Joseph is in Alliance, Neb.; Robert and James are both in the employ of the Great Northern railway, in. England, Robert being a station agent and James a signal fitter ; Albert is deceased, and Jennie is the wife of a Mr. Blyton, of Lincoln. England. Geo. A. Dennis received the educational training afforded by the public schools of Lincoln, England, and until his voice failed he sang in the choir in St. Mary le Wigford Episcopal Church. .At the early age of fourteen years he began his independent career by obtaining the position of claim tracer with the Great Northern railway, at Lincoln. England. He was promoted to assistant clerk at the age of fifteen and was given a position in the ticket office at Nostel. England, and later at Thackley, England. He resigned this position at the age of sixteen and went to sea, sailing with Pappianna & Company, on their vessel "Agia Sofia," between Liverpool. England, and Alexandria, Egypt. Odessa, Russia, and other Mediterranean ports. Later, he was with the West Indian & Pacific Steamship Company, on their vessel "Australian," sailing between Liverpool, the West Indies, and Spanish main ports. Tiring of a sailor's life, he came to America, through the port of Galveston, Tex.. to visit relatives in Michigan, and soon thereafter, in 1888. secured employment with the Ann Arbor railroad, as freight brakeman. . The following year he secured a position in the office of the same company, but resigned it to accept a more lucrative one with the Wabash railway, and was with that company until 1890. He then resigned to accept a position with the Pennsylvania company, as assistant cashier, later being promoted to cashier and still later to chief clerk. He resigned the BIOGRAPHICAL - 627 last named position in December. 1902. to accept the one which he at present occupies, that of agent of the Manufacturers' Railway Company. Mr. Dennis is stanch in his allegiance to the men and measures of the Republican party, and in 1908 he was the candidate of that organization for representative in the State legislature, receiving 12,325 votes for the office and being beaten by the small plurality of seventeen. Fraternally, he is the Worshipful Master of Rubicon Lodge, No. 237, Free & Accepted Masons, at Toledo, is a member of Fort Meigs Chapter No. 29, Royal Arch Masons, and also of Toledo Council of the National Union. He has membership in and was president of the Toledo Local Freight Agents' Association for the years 1908 and 1909. His religious views are in accord with the Episcopalian creed. On Oct. 22, 1890, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. J Dennis and Miss Elizabeth P. Mettler, the daughter of Peter J. Mettler, a real estate, insurance, and steamship agent of Toledo. Mr. and Mrs. Dennis have two children : Flora E., aged nineteen years, and Irene A., aged seventeen years ; both of whom graduated at the Sherman School and are now in the Toledo High School. The family resides at 2105 Cherry street. Avery W. Boardman, general manager and secretary of the East Side Iron Elevator Company, of Toledo, and who for many years is Leen a prominent figure in railway circles of the State, owes his success and prestige in the commercial and industrial world entirely to his own assiduous, honest endeavor, and is a "self-made man" in every sense of that term. He is a product of Summit county, Ohio, having been born in the city of Akron, Jan. 6, 1848, and is a son of John C. and Priscilla P. (Granger) Boardman, natives of the old Empire State. Thomas Granger, the maternal great-grandfather of the subject of this review, was a fifer in the American army during the Revolutionary war, serving in the Fifth Massachusetts infantry, under the command of Colonel Loomis. His son, Lemuel Granger, maternal grandfather of A. W. Boardman, migrated to Ohio in an early day, locating in Akron, where for many years he was a contractor and builder, and he supervised the construction of the nine canal locks at that place. The paternal grandfather came to Ohio. in 1812, and purchased government land in the immediate vicinity of the present city of Springfield. where he attained to success and prestige as a breeder" and grower of cattle. He was robbed and cruelly murdered while returning from Cincinnati, whence he had driven a drove of cattle across country to market. John C. Boardman, father of Avery \V., of this record, was born in 'Washington county. New York. April 2, 1803. was a stone cutter and contractor by occupation, and migrated to Summit county. Ohio. in an early day. where he continued to make his residence until his demise, in 1869. Avery W. Boardman received his educational training in the common schools of Akron, Ohio, and commenced his independent career as a newsboy on the old Atlantic & Great Western railway, which is now a part of the Erie, in which capacity he served for several years, after which he became a brakeman on the same road. On Feb. 5, 628 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY 1872, he entered the employ of the Wabash Railroad Company, in the same capacity, and after some years received the appointment of yard-master in this company's freight yards, in Toledo, and later was transferred to Danville, Vermilion county, Illinois, where he officiated as yard-conductor until he suffered the loss of a limb. He then removed to Toledo. and was employed in the freight offices of the Wabash company there for a period of five years, at the expiration of which he was transferred to the elevator offices of that company, in Toledo, where he remained continuously for twelve years. In 1894, he was the first secretary and manager of the Iron Elevator Company, in Toledo, which concern enjoys the distinction of having been the first in the world to erect an iron elevator. In 1895, in connection with several others, he incorporated the East Side Iron Elevator Company, of Toledo, becoming the secretary and general manager of the same, which position he occupies today. He is a member of Wapaukonica Lodge, No. 38, Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; Toledo Encampment. No. 118 ; Aurora Lodge, No. 3, Daughters of Rebekah ; Kremlin Ufa, No. 4, Imperial Order of Muscovites ; Toledo Produce Exchange, Chamber of Commerce, Transportation Club, Business Men's Club. and the Toledo Settlement Association. The members of the Boardman family are affrliated with the Washington Street Congregational Church, of Toledo, in the affairs of which they are prominent figures. Mr. Boardman, for fourteen years, has been treasurer and a member of the board of trustees, and at present is also superintendent of the senior department of the Sunday school of that church. On April 29, 1873, he was happily united in holy wedlock to Miss Fannie M. Funk, a daughter of Christian and Mary (Shoff) Funk, of Danville, Ill., and of this union have been born five children, namely : Ethel, born Feb. 26. 1874 ; Grace, born Feb. 22, 1879 ; John C., born Oct. 20, 1881: Whitman A., born Dec. 7, 1886 ; and Frederick A.. born Jan. 2, 1892. Charles Henry Blayz, one of the young and highly successful business men of Toledo, now vice-president and superintendent of the Buckeye Paint Company of that city, has achieved success and prestige in commercial circles entirely through his own persistent. honest endeavor. .He is a native of Toledo, born Dec. 23, 1877 a son of John and Katherine (Nichols) Blayz, the former a native of St. John's, Canada, and the latter of Toledo. The father came to Toledo in the early fifties of the last century and for several years was employed as a submarine man. Later. he became a member of the city fire department, in which he served continuously for twenty years, at the expiration of which he retired from active service and is now enjoying the fruits of a long and exceptionally useful career. He was a gallant soldier in the Federal army during the Civil war, enlisting as a member of an infantry regiment, and for some time was stationed at Detroit, Mich., capturing deserters from the ranks of the union army who attempted to escape to Canada. Charles H. Blayz acquired his educational training in the public schools of his native city, St. Patrick's Academy there, and in the evening sessions of the chemistry depart- BIOGRAPHICAL - 629 ment of the Manual Training High School of Toledo. At the age of fifteen he entered the employ of the Buckeye Paint Company, of Toledo, where he has been engaged ever since, and because of his careful, painstaking and exceptional devotion to duty he was promoted from one position to another until he attained to the offices of responsibility which he today occupies ; and here as in all other capacities in which his extremely industrious career has placed him. he brings to the discharge of his duties pronounced capability, integrity and absolute fairness. He enjoys the unreserved confidence, respect and esteem of his business associates, the many patrons of the establishment, his subordinates, and all with whom he comes in contact. Mr. Blayz and family j; are loyal adherents of the church of the Roman Catholic faith, in the affairs of which they are very active, and he is also a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association. In his political views Mr. Blayz is very liberal and broad-minded, and, though he is not aligned in the ranks of any political party, he never fails to perform the duties of good citizenship at the polls and elsewhere, but reserves the privilege of casting his ballot entirely independent of any political affiliations or party ties. On April 20, 1901, was solemnized his marriage to Miss Louise Bennett, an accomplished young woman of Port Huron, St. Clair county, Michigan. of which union have been born three children. namely : Cyril J., Raymond Charles, and Gwendolyn Ann. George A. Weber, assistant postmaster at Toledo ; for many years a conspicuous figure in commercial circles in Lucas county ; founder of the Toledo Tinware Manufacturing Company ; formerly cashier of the Ohio Savings Bank & Trust Company ; -later secretary and treasurer of the M. I. Wilcox Company, and closely identified with various other business concerns of Toledo, was born in West Toledo, March 8, 1860. His parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Kuebler) Weber, were both natives of Switzerland, and upon their migration to America came to Lucas county, where they passed their remaining days and were ever known as thrifty, enterprising citizens. The father was a carpenter by trade and aided in the erection of many of Toledo's finest residences. During the later years of his career he embarked in the flour and feed business in Toledo, in which he was engaged at the time of his death. One of his sons. Otto, brother of George A., of this review, was a gallant soldier in the Union army during the Civil war. enlisting rn the Ninety-sixth Ohio infantry and remaining with the regiment until it was mustered out at the close of the war. The immediate subject of this sketch received his early education in the schools of Williams county, Ohio, and later pursued a course of study in the Davis Business College of Toledo. He commenced his independent career at the age of twelve, by entering the employ of a wholesale millinery concern, in the capacity of errand boy, and here his promptness, aptitude and fidelity soon won for him the approbation of his superiors, which led to his promotion to the position of bookkeeper. After serving in this capacity for several years, he resigned and became a bookkeeper in the employ of the R. & J. Cummings Company, wholesale dealers in boots and shoes. In 630 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY 1884. he was made teller in the National Bank of Commerce and was thus engaged until 1895, when, in company with others, he organized the Toledo Tinware Manufacturing Company, with which he was for several years associated, after which he disposed of his interest therein. He then became teller in the Ohio Savings Bank & Trust Company, of which he later was elected cashier. In 1906, he resigned the last named position to become secretary and treasurer of the M. I. Wilcox Company. In November, 1909, having disposed of his interest in the Wilcox company, he was appointed assistant postmaster at Toledo. and here, as in all the other capacities in which his enterprising career has found him, he has brought to the discharge of his duties exceptional capability, fidelity and absolute integrity, and all who come in contact with him receive kindly, courteous treatment. Mr. Weber is financially interested in several concerns in Toledo and is a member of the boards of directors of the National Bank of Commerce, the Buckeye Paint & Varnish Company, and the Express Publishing & Printing Company. He is a prominent figure in the affairs of the Toledo Credit Men's Association and the fraternal order of the National Union. In politics, he is a stanch Republican, and for two years. 1884-1886. he was deputy treasurer of Lucas county. In his religious faith he is a Baptist. On Nov. 9, 1892, Mr. Weber was united in marriage. to Minnie Louise Redding, daughter of Philip and Babette (Wirth) Redding. the former a native of Bavaria and the latter of Wurtemburg, Germany. Of the happy union of Mr. Weber and wife have been born three children, namely : Robert R., Spencer G., and Ford R. The subject of this review is a fine example of a "self-made" man. Beginning his career as an errand boy at the tender age of twelve, he has steadily mounted the ladder of success to his present enviable position. He has made his way in the world through his own industry, frugality and intelligence, as well as a strict adherence to the correct principles of life. He is one of the sterling citizens of the community and commands the unqualified respect and admiration of all who know him. John H. Reynolds, one of the founders and promoters of the Reynolds Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of saddlery hardware specialties, and now general manager of the Toledo branch of that establishment, merits consideration in this work by reason of his status as a prominent and influential business man. He is a native of the old Empire State, having first beheld the light of day in Buffalo, N. Y., Sept. 15, 1850. and is a son of George W. and Elizabeth (Allen) Reynolds, the former a product of the Emerald Isle and the latter born in Ipswich. county of Suffolk, England. George W. Reynolds came to the United States when nineteen years of age and located, in Buffalo, N. Y.. where he was successfully engaged in the meat business until 1855, when he retired from active work and removed to Toledo. His wife, the mother of John H., of this review, in the days of her childhood came from her native land to Montreal. Canada. in company with her parents. and there her father pursued his vocation of cabinet-maker. The subject of this record became a resident of Toledo when five years BIOGRAPHICAL - 631 of age, and there he was reared and received his educational training. Upon the passing of his school days, he entered upon his independent career by embarking in the meat business, which he followed until 1887, when he became a traveling salesman. He continued as a "knight of the grip" for fourteen years, at the expiration of which, in 1901, in company with his brothers. Lawrence G., George A., and Horace J. Reynolds, he established and organized the Reynolds Manufacturing Company. with which he is still associated, as stated above. Like many other industrial and commercial enterprises, this concern was launched on a modest basis, but through the persistent, enterprising endeavor of its proprietors was soon placed on a sound footing. and. advancing step by step with the material development of Toledo and vicinity, it has attained to a foremost position among institutions of industry and commerce in this section of the State. In his political allegiance, Mr. Reynolds is aligned in the ranks of the Republican party, though he reserves the privilege of acting independently in local affairs when his better judgment dictates such a course ; and in his fraternal affiliations he is a member of the Free & Accepted Masons. In 1874, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Reynolds to Miss Lettie Leybown, an accomplished young woman of Toledo, and a daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Jefferds) Leybown. Of this happy union have been born three children : Cary, Mable, and Raymond. Justice H. Bowman, president of the Toledo Elevator Company and the National Elevator Company of Indianapolis, and director in the American Hominy Company of the latter city, is a product of the Empire State and her institutions, having r been born in Otsego county, New York, May 1. 1849. Progenitors of his on the paternal side were numbered among the pioneer settlers of Otsego county, and there the Bowman family was for several generations prominently identified with the agricultural industry. The parents—William H. and Elsa (Bullis) Bowman—were both native of New York State, the former having first beheld the light of day in Montgomery county and the latter in Otsego county. The father was a pedagogue by profession and for many years was principal of a school in Albany, N. Y., though the later years of his career were spent in Toledo. Justice H.. to whom this review is dedicated, secured his educational training in the school at Albany, of which his honored sire was principal, and at the age of sixteen left school and entered the United States army, enlisting Sept. 14, 1865, as a private in Company H, Fourth United States infantry, with which he served for two years and five months, receiving his honorable discharge from .the service, Feb. 14, 1868. Later in the same year he came to Toledo and entered the employ of the firm of George W. Reynolds & Company (millers), the title of which was three years later altered to Reynolds Brothers, when the concern embarked in the grain dealing business. Mr. Bowman continued with the above firm until 1889. when he entered the employ of Paddock & Hartsock, with whom he remained until 1898, though from 1892 on he also officiated as president of the Toledo Elevator 632 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY Company. which position he has occupied continuously from that time to this. He is also interested in other enterprises, among them the National Elevator and the American Hominy companies, of Indianapolis, being president of the former and a member of the board of directors in the latter, as is stated above. On July 20, 1870, Air. Bowman and Miss Alice Leelloyd, daughter of Daniel Tompkins and Sophia (Whitman) Leelloyd, of Boston, Mass., were united in holy wedlock, and of this union have been born two children, namely : Fannie L. and Charles R. The Bowman family is associated with Trinity Episcopal Church of Toledo, and Mr. Bowman is a member of Sanford L. Collins Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons, the Royal Arcanum, the Toledo Club, the Country Club and the Toledo Chamber of Commerce. Politically he is a Republican, and his standing in the community is unassailable, as he is one of the liberal and public-spirited residents of the city, and holds the unqualified respect and esteem of citizens in every walk in life. James E. Bancroft, for many years engaged in the manufacture of rubber goods, and founder and promoter of the Bancroft Manufacturing Company. of Toledo, of which he was formerly president, is a native of the Wolverine State, having been born in the township of Palmyra, Lenawee county, Michigan, and he is a son of James H. and Lydia (Collins) Bancroft. both of whom were born in the vicinity of Canandaigua, Ontario county, New York. The parents were reared in their native State and their educational advantages were those of her public schools. They migrated to Michigan in an early day, locating in Palmyra township, Lenawee county, where the father purchased a tract of government land, which he cleared of its native timber and reclaimed to cultivation. Here the subject of this review was reared, and at an early age became inured to the sturdy discipline of farm life, learning the exacting lessons of hard work and self-dependence. He acquired his early educational training in the public schools of the city of Adrian, upon the completion of which he attended Evans' Business College at that place, pursuing a complete course of study. Soon afterward, he entered upon hrs independent career by familiarizing himself with the rubber-goods manufacturing industry, which he has continued to make his life vocation. In his early manhood he was engaged in this work in Michigan and Ohio, and later in the State of Kansas. In 1905, he established and placed upon a sound basis the Bancroft Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of rubber goods, of which he officiated as president until 1908, when he disposed of his interests therein. He has made several inventions of note. among them a contrivance for the rapid repair of pneumatic tires, a hydro-carbon burner, a canning machine, and various other contrivances and machines employed in the manufacture of rubber products. In his political faith he renders allegiance to the Republican party. He is a broad-minded, public-spirited citizen, and commands in fullest measure the unqualified regard and esteem of his fellow-citizens. In July. 1882. he was happily united in marriage to Miss Flora Ewing, daughter of Cornelius and Sarah (McCarty) Ewing, of Hudson, Lenawee BIOGRAPHICAL - 633 county, Michigan, of which marital union one child was born—Claude H., now a resident of Toledo, Ohio. Mrs. Bancroft, his first wife, passed away in November, 1886, and on Aug. 26, 1891, Mr. Bancroft was united in holy wedlock to Miss Lillie L. Blakeslee. daughter of Dr. C. H. Blakeslee and Josephine (Cross) Blakeslee, of Kansas City, Kan. John J. Rooney, founder and proprietor of the John J. Rooney Company, of Toledo, is another of the native sons of Toledo who has attained to gratifying success and prestige in the industrial world, entirely through his own assiduous enterprise. He was born in that city, a son of Capt. James and Mary (Warnick) Rooney, the former of whom was a native of the Emerald Isle, and the latter of whom first beheld the light of day in Canada. John J., to whom this article is dedicated, was reared and educated in Toledo, and commenced his real work in life by associating himself in the dredge business with his father, being thus occupied until the latter disposed of his dredging machinery and apparatus and retired from active work to enjoy the fruits of his long and exceptionally industrious career. John J. was then engaged in looking after his father's extensive business interests until the death of his honored sire, which occurred in 1904, shortly after which he founded and organized the John J. Rooney Company and launched forth in the manufacture of brushes of numerous varieties, in which business he has since been continuously engaged. In 1898, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Rooney and Miss Mary D. Kohler, daughter of Anthony Kohler. of Toledo, who was one of the first of the gallant sons of the North to respond to President Lincoln's first call for volunteer troops and to go forth in defense of the Union, serving throughout the entire war. Mr. and Mrs. Rooney have no children, and they reside at 543 Avondale avenue. He is a loyal member of the religious faith in which he was reared, holding membership in St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church. In politics, he is not aligned in the ranks of any of the parties, and, though he is interested in questions of public policy, especially those of a local nature. he has but little time to devote to public affairs. though he never fails to perform the duties of good citizenship at the polls, and exercises his prerogative for the good of the community at large: The best efforts of his later years have been devoted to the upbuilding of a business which would yield him a fair return on his investment and at the same time gratify the wants of his patrons and render general satisfaction- to all concerned, and how well he has succeeded those who are acquainted with his business affairs are best qualified to judge. He has the unreserved confidence and esteem of his neighbors and patrons and is numbered among the progressive and public-spirited citizens of Toledo. Edward J. Wehrly, general manager of the Arbuckle-Ryan Company, of Toledo, which deals in threshing machines and agricultural implements, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, April 16, 1846, a son of John and Eugenia (Chatelain) Wehrly, both of whom were natives of Switzerland. The father was born in the city of 634 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY Aarau, capital of the canton of Aargau. and the mother in the beautiful city of Geneva, the metropolis of Switzerland. They were reared, educated. and united in marriage in the land of their nativity, and in August, 1831, immigrated to this country, settling in Wayne county, Ohio, where they became numbered among the early inhabitants of that region. The maternal grandfather of the immediate subject of this sketch served as a captain in the French army under Napoleon Bonaparte, with whom he crossed the Alps into Russia, participating in the celebrated siege of Moscow, and, though he survived the many hardships and privations incident to the campaign, he suffered the misfortune of losing all of his toes through freezing in the retreat from Moscow. By occupation he was a manufacturer of silk ribbons and was a prominent figure in local politics, holding for a number of years in his home town the office which in the United States is termed "judge." Mr. Wehrly, to whom this sketch is dedicated, was reared in his native county, and his rudimentary education was acquired in her public schools. after which he entered Oberlin College, graduating in that institution as a member of the class of 1865. He commenced his real work in life in the ensuing year by embarking in the retail hardware business, at Wooster, Wayne county, Ohio, in which he continued for six years. He then engaged in the real estate business in Southwestern Virginia, in which line of endeavor he was employed for another six years. In 1881, he removed to Toledo and became associated with the Arbuckle-Ryan Company, and in 1896. at the time of the incorporation of this concern, he became its general manager, in which capacity he has since continued to officiate. In his business affairs, Mr. Wehrly has been keen, sagacious and active, and. the present standing of the Arbuckle-Ryan Company in the commercial world is due in no small _measure to his executive ability and indefatigable industry. As a citizen he enjoys the unqualified confidence and esteem of his neighbors. business associates and acquaintances, and as a business man he is generally looked upon as one of the most progressive in the city. He was married, in October, 1873, to Miss Elizabeth Greer, daughter of Thomas W. and Elizabeth (Wilson) Greer, of Virginia. and of this happy union have been born four children, namely : Charles and Burtie, both deceased ; Clarence, and Florence. In his political views Mr. Wehrly was formerly a firm advocate of the principles of Democracy as laid down by Thomas Jefferson and so gallantly upheld by Andrew Jackson, but when the party split upon the money issue, in the memorable campaign of 1896, he aligned himself in the ranks of the Republican party, of which he has been an adherent ever since, though when local issues are at stake he reserves the privilege of acting independently, when his better judgment dictates such a course. He is a member of Rubicon Lodge. Free & Accepted Masons, and the new Commercial Club of Toledo ; and he is a communicant in the Presbyterian church. John G. Coleman is one of the prominent young business men of Toledo, in which city his entire life has been spent, and where his legion of friends have observed with satisfaction and pleasure BIOGRAPHICAL - 635 his climb up the ladder of success. Mr. Coleman was born in Toledo, Aug. 3, 1876, and was educated in the public schools, graduating in the Toledo High School and finishing his scholastic training with a business course at Steadman's Business College. At the completion of this commercial course he entered the law offices of Judge P. A. MacGahan and Judge Gilbert Harmon, but finally decided upon a business rather than a professional career, and in 1903 he engaged in the foundry business. In partnership with Henry Wildman he came into possession of the Globe Boiler Works, Water street and Jackson avenue, and as secretary-treasurer of the company he has contributed in no small way to the success achieved by the firm. A very extensive business is transacted, and special attention is given to marine work, repairing of boilers, making gas engines, etc. Mr. Coleman is an expert accountant and general stenographer and his services have been in demand at conventions and other important gatherings. In politics he gives allegiance to the platform expressions of the Republican party and he held the position of deputy city auditor for a period of three years. He also served for a time as chief clerk marine inspector of Northern Ohio, Ninth district ; he is a member of the Toledo Chamber of Commerce, and during the life of the now defunct Lincoln Club he took an active interest in its work. Fraternally, Mr. Coleman has membership in the following societies : Lucas Lodge, Knights of Pythias ; Toledo, No. 402, Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; the Toledo Accountants' Society ; Rubicon Lodge, No. 237, Free & Accepted Masons ; Toledo Chapter, No. 161, Royal Arch Masons ; Toledo Council. No. 33, Royal and Select Masters ; Toledo Commanders, No. 7, Knights Templars ; Zenobia Temple Shrine, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine ; and he has taken the Thirty-second degree of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Masons. Francis A. Duncan, founder and head of the Duncan Forge Company, of Toledo, was born in London. England. Oct. 3, 1869. a son of Frank and Margaret (Burns) Duncan. the former a native of England and the latter of Scotland. The father made the forge business his chief occupation and for a number of years owned and operated a foundry in Liverpool, in his native land. Francis A., to whom this sketch is dedicated, is the seventh in order of birth of the sixteen children born to the parents, and the only member of the family who came to America. One of the sons, William, served in the British army. Francis A. Duncan's early opportunities to acquire an education were very limited. but the nationality which has produced a Cromwell. a Wellington and a Gladstone, is not easily discouraged, and by self-study he has supplemented the meager educational training of his boyhood days and has gained a practical education. At an early age he learned the forge business in his father's foundry, and, in 1889, when in his twentieth vear, he emigrated to Medicine Hat. Assiniboia. Canada, where he spent his first winter in America as a blacksmith in the employ of the Canadian Pacific Railroad Company, after which he went to work for the Northwestern Coal & Navigation Company, with 636 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY which he remained for several years. In 1899, he removed to Seattle, Wash., and embarked in the machine foundry business on his own account, and, in 1903. he came to North Baltimore, Wood county, Ohio, engaging in the foundry business. During the two years following he followed his trade in several cities of Ohio, spending a year and a half at Findlay. Hancock county, as superintendent of the Co-operative Boiler & Machine Company's plant. In 1903, he took up his residence in Toledo, where for brief intervals he was associated with various concerns, among them being the Pope Motor & Universal Machine Company, at the foot of Summit street. Later, he purchased the Globe Machine Forge Company's shops at 510 Water street, which he has since continued to operate under the title of the "Duncan Forge Company," doing forge work of various descriptions and enjoying a large and extensive patronage. Mr. Duncan has invented and patented several exceptionally useful contrivances, among them being a horseshoe; a hollow steel ingot, employed in the manufacture of seamless tubing; and a cheese block, which he sold in Seattle. He has been twice married. On July 2, 1892, was solemnized his marriage to Miss Florence Stackhouse, and after her death he married, Nov. 10. 1897. Miss Anna Kaiser. He has four children : two sons—Frederick Francis and George A.—by his first wife and two—Frank and a small babe—by his present wife. Mr. Duncan is a prominent figure in fraternal circles. being affiliated with the Free & Accepted Masons ; Toledo Commandery, No. 7, Knights Templars : the Protected Home Circle ; and the Modern Woodmen of America ; in all of which he is very popular for his genial disposition and his readiness to assist in the advancement of every charitable and benevolent work undertaken by his lodges. He is distinctly a self-made man, and in his various undertakings he has been guided by quick perceptions. cool judgment, undaunted courage, absolute confidence in his own abilities, firmness, and above all an unflinching honesty and a strict adherence to correct business principles. While he has worked for his own financial profit, he has not been unmindful of the public welfare, and Lucas county can boast of no more public-spirited citizen, no one more profoundly interested in the general prosperity, than Mr. Duncan. John McArthur, general agent for the Detroit & Cleveland Navigation Company, in Toledo, for the past sixteen years, is a native of the Wolverine State, having been born in the city of Detroit, Mich.. Oct. 21, 1866, of Scotch parentage, as both his father and mother. Archibald and Elizabeth (Galloway) McArthur, were natives of Scotland. They were reared, educated and married in their native land. and, about six years prior to the birth of the subject of this review, emigrated to this country, locating in Detroit, Mich., where they maintained their residence throughout their remaining years. the death of the father occurring in November, 1901. and that of his devoted wife on April 18 of the same year. Archibald McArthur was a machinist by occupation, which he followed continuously from the later years of his youth up to the time of his death, and he and his wife became the parents of five BIOGRAPHICAL - 637 children, of whom two survive. John McArthur was reared in the city of his nativity, and there he acquired his education in the public schools. He embarked in his independent career by entering the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad Company, at Detroit, in the capacity of billing clerk, with which company he remained for about seven years. In 1889, he obtained a position with the Detroit & Cleveland Navigation Company, at Detroit, in whose employ he continued in that city until 1894, when he came to Toledo as the company's official representative, and there he has officiated in that capacity ever since. In the various positions which it has fallen to the lot of Mr. McArthur to occupy, he has brought to the discharge of his duties punctuality, sagacity, and absolute integrity, and in his social relations his kindly, courteous demeanor has won him hosts of friends in every walk in life, and no man stands higher in the estimation of friends and neighbors. In politics, he is a stanch supporter of the men and measures of the Republican party, and he is widely known as one of the public-spirited and progressive residents of the city ; and in his religious views he is a Presbyterian. On March 4, -1902, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. McArthur to Miss Hettie Oliver, a native of Iowa, but a resident of Toledo at the time of her marriage, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Francis M. Oliver, who were numbered among the pioneer settlers in the Hawkeye State, and the former of whom was a gallant soldier in the great Civil war. Mr. and Mrs. McArthur have one child—Mary Elizabeth. George J. Seiss is one of the younger manufacturers of Toledo. both as regards age and length of time engaged in business, but the high standing which he has attained and the extensive patronage which is being accorded him is a sufficient augury of his ultimate success in his chosen field of industry. He is a native of Toledo, his birth having occurred there on July 25, 1876, and he is a son of Jacob and Ernstina B. Seiss, both of whom were born in Germany. In an early day the parents left the "Vaterland" and immigrated to Toledo, where the father engaged in the teaming business and continued to follow that occupation during the greater portion of his residence in this country : and his death occurred in Toledo. in 1888. The mother is still -living. Of their union were born nine children, of whom seven are now living, and four of the sons are associated in business with George J., whose name initiates this review. The last named was reared and educated in Toledo and at an early age commenced his independent career by learning the machinist's and the tool-maker's trades, which he followed until early in the year 1903, when he engaged in business for himself. embarking in the manufacture of various specialties, including dyes and novelties. The establishment was first located at 427 Vance street. but in October. 1903. it was removed to 437 Dorr street. The remarkable growth and volume of business soon demanded greater facilities, and in 1907 Mr. Seiss erected a more adequate building at 433 Dorr street, where the concern is still located. In October. 1908, a joint stock company was formed. with George J., of this sketch, as president. and in which four of his 638 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY brothers are associated. Leonard A. being vice-president, August J. secretary and treasurer, and Frederick H. and Ernest C., directors. The business has been gradually expanded and now includes the manufacture of bicycle lamps and other specialties, and its patrons are to be found in all sections of the United States. Mr. Seiss was united in marriage, March 4, 1908, to Miss Emma Adams, daughter of Theodore and Mary Adams, who were among the earlier settlers in Toledo. Mr. and Mrs. Seiss have no children, and they reside at 1121 City Park avenue. Both are communicants in the church of the German Lutheran faith, in which they were reared, and he is affiliated with Rubicon Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons. In his political views. Mr. Seiss is an independent. and, though he has never aspired to the honors or emoluments of public office, he has encouraged by his influence and financial support various undertakings for the upbuilding of the community and for the promoting of its industrial, social and religious life. He is an active force in the commercial life of the city and is widely recognized as one of the more progressive of the younger citizens of Toledo. D. Charles Hart, for many years prominently identified with various commercial enterprises in the city of Toledo, was born Dec. 11, 1863, in the city whrch has been the scene of his business activities. He is a son of George W. and Amanda (Burgert) Hart, the former of whom was a native of Castile, Wyoming county, New York, and the latter of New Bedford. Coshocton county, Ohio. George W. Hart migrated west to Ohio in early manhood, locating in Toledo, though his marriage to Amanda Burgert was solemnized in New Bedford. For some years he was engaged in the wholesale boot and shoe business as a member of the firm of Burgert C. Hart, but upon the dissolution of this partnership he embarked in the manufacture of brick, which occupation he followed continuously until his death, in July, 1895. He was a prominent figure in Masonic circles, having attained to the Thirty-third degree, and being a charter member of Scottish Rite Masonry in Toledo, and also belonging to the Toledo Commandery, Knights Templars. His widow is still living, and they were the parents of three children, of whom two survive. a son having passed away in 1884. D. Charles Hart, whose name initiates this memoir, received his education in the public schools of his native city, and about two years afterward launched forth in the candy business on his own account as a member of the firm of West & Hart, which was continued for three years. at the expiration of which he entered the brick manufacturing business, becoming associated with the Collingwood Brick Company, with which he remained for two years, and then became treasurer of the Fremont Furniture Company, at Fremont. Sandusky county, Ohio, in which capacity he continued for five years, after which he returned to Toledo and embarked in the life and accident insurance business, becoming general agent for the Pennsylvania Mutual Life and the United States Casualty insurance companies, in which capacity he was engaged for ten years; and in March, 1908, he assumed his present positions as BIOGRAPHICAL - 639 president and general manager of the Darling Candy Company. The growth and volume of business of this concern has been remarkable, and today its patrons are to be found as far west as the Rocky mountains. as far south as Kentucky and Tennessee, and as far east as the Atlantic seaboard. When operating to its full capacity about seventy-five hands are employed, and it is housed in a commodious structure at 20 South Ontario street. In politics, Mr. Hart, like many another business man of large affairs, is aligned in the ranks of the Republican party, though he is by no means an "offensive partisan," and among his host of friends are numbered many Democrats. He was married, Jan. 1, 1894, to Miss Bessie R. Andrews, daughter of William H. and Carrie A. Andrews, of Fremont, Sandusky county, Ohio, the former of whom for several years prior to his death was auditor of the Ohio Central Railroad Company. Mr. and Mrs. Hart have one child, George Andrews, and they are both members of the Unitarian church. Hugo Bickel, for the past six years associated with the Bauroth Machine Company. of Toledo, which he helped to found and organize. is one of the progressive and enterprising citizens of the county who came hither from a foreign land and became the architect of his own fortunes, winning a worthy success and attaining to a high rank in the industrial circles of the city. He is a native of Germany, and was born Jan. 18, 1870, a son of Benjamin and Margaret Bickel, both of whom are also natives of Germany. In 1882, when the immediate subject of this sketch was twelve years of age, the Bickel family left their home in the "Vaterland" and immigrated to the United States, locating in Springfield, Clarke county, Ohio, where the father was for many years a highly successful follower of the blacksmith's trade, and where both of the parents still maintain their residence. Of their marital union have been born four children, of whom three are now living. Hugo Bickel. to whom this article is dedicated, secured his early education in the public schools at Springfield, Ohio, after which he pursued studies in Nelson's Business College in the same city. He commenced his real work in life by learning the machinist's trade, in Springfield, which occupation he continued to pursue there until 1904. when he took up his residence in Toledo and aided in the establishment and organization of the Bauroth Machine Company, with which he has been associated continuously from that time to the present. Though this concern was launched on a modest footing, it was soon placed on a substantial basis, and the remarkable growth and volume of business rapidly demanded greater facilities than those afforded in the original establishment, leading to the erection of the present structure, at 454 Earl street. Though Mr. Bickel has been a resident of Toledo but six years, he has in that brief period of time attained to gratifying success and prestige in his chosen vocation, and his name has come to be a synonym for indomitable energy and rugged integrity. In his political proclivities he renders allegiance to the principles expounded by the Socialist party, which evinces his sympathetic nature and his desire for the uplifting of the human race in general. In his religious 640 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY views he is a faithful adherent of the faith in which he was reared, being an active member of the German Lutheran church, and he has given liberally of his time and means to various charitable and benevolent objects. He was united in marriage, March 7, 1893. to Miss Millie Pfeiffer, a native of Ohio. and daughter of Adam and Caroline Pfeiffer. Mr. and Mrs. Bickel have three children. namely : Margaret and Millie, who are pupils in the ward schools of Toledo ; and Marian, the youngest, who has not yet attained to school age. William Grogan, deceased, for many years associated with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railway, and later manager of the Toledo Car Service Association, was born in Toledo, Jan. 1, 1856, the son of Michael and Mary (Cauley) Grogan. Both parents were natives of County Roscommon. Ireland. Michael Grogan came to the United States when but seventeen years of age and settled first in New York State. Upon leaving the Empire State. in 1850, he came direct to Toledo and secured employment in the service of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railway. Subsequently, he became yardmaster for the same corporation in the Toledo yards, and by thrift and industry he managed to accumulate enough of a competence to enable him to retire from active labor in his later years. His death occurred in February, 1892, and his widow breathed her last some three years later. He was a stanch Democrat in his political ideas, but never held nor aspired to public office of any nature. His religious nature found expression in attendance upon the services of. and membership in. St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church. Eight children came to bless the marriage of the parents. George, the first born, is now living in Gardner, Ill.; Michael is deceased ; Margaret is a resident of Toledo ; Mary is deceased : William is the subject of this memoir : Sarah is the widow of Dennis Hart. of Toledo ; James has passed away ; and Elizabeth, the youngest, is the wife of Charles Hodgkins. of Toledo. William Grogan's scholastic training was received in the parochial school connected with St. Patrick's Church. While still a youth he entered the offices of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railway, as an employe of the telegraph department, and there mastered the art of telegraphy. Two years later, he was transferred to the offices of Superintendent Curtis, where he labored for several years in a clerical capacity. His ambition to get ahead. his careful, businesslike methods. soon won him promotion and he was sent to Cleveland to become confidential clerk to J. G. Paine. the general superintendent of the road. Subsequently, he was again located at Toledo. as chief clerk in Mr. Curtis' office, and as the incumbent of that position he served under several succeeding, superintendents. In 1891, he severed his connection with the railroad corporation to become manager of the Toledo Car Service Association. This position he filled efficiently and acceptably to all concerned until the time of his death, which occurred Oct. 2. 1904. Reared in the Catholic faith, he gave unswerving allegiance to its tenets all his life, and worshiped at St. Patrick's Church. in which he had been confirmed. He was a Democrat in his political BIOGRAPHICAL - 641 belief, but never mingled in the activities of campaigns, and, with the exception of a term as a member of the University Board, never held public offrce of any nature. Fraternally, he was allied with the Knights of Columbus, the Modern Woodmen of America and the National Union. On Feb. 15, 1881, was solemnized, in St. Patrick's Church in Toledo, the marriage of Mr. Grogan and Miss Elizabeth A. Donohue, the daughter of Sylvester and Catherine (McQuillen) Donohue, of Toledo. Nine children were the issue of this union. Mary Elizabeth and George. the first two born, are deceased; William, who is employed by the Wabash railroad, makes his home with his widowed mother ; Elizabeth is deceased, as is Sylvester ; and Edwin, Katherine Florence, George Francis, and Margaret Helen are at home. Mrs. Grogan's father, Sylvester Donohue, was born near Dublin, Ireland, in 1827 ; and his wife first saw the light of day in County Monoghan, Ireland, on Christmas Day, 1832. When but seventeen years of age. Sylvester Donohue left the Emerald Isle to seek his fortune in the United States. During the first few years of his residence in this country he found employment in New York city, and, in 1856, came to Toledo. Here he secured employment with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railway, as an express messenger. In 1870, he left the company's employ to accept a position on the Toledo city police force. Two years later, with the money he had saved by thrift and frugality, he established himself in the grocery business at the corner of Dorr and Division streets. This enterprise weathered the financial difficulties which come to newly established concerns, and gradually developed its activities until it became known as one of the most modern and sanitary stores in the city. Mr. Donohue was still active in the management of the business when death claimed him. Jan. 11. 1880. His funeral was held from St. Patrick's. which was filled to overflowing with grief-stricken friends and relatives, and the remains were interred in Calvary cemetery. Mrs. Donohue is now a respected resident of Toledo, living on Parkwood avenue. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Donohue, of whom Mrs. Grogan is the eldest. The others are : John T., of Chicago ; Helen. the wife of Charles Christy. of Toledo ; Catherine. the widow of Joseph P. Hanly, now residing in Toledo ; Sylvester. who is deceased ; and Loretta, the wife of Dr. T. E. Burgess, of Toledo. All the children were reared in the Roman Catholic faith and are now devout communicants of the church. Mrs. Grogan and her children have a beautiful home at 2107 Washington street, which Mr. Grogan planned and superintended the construction of some years before his death, and in which many of the happiest hours of his life were spent. Frank Pierce Thomas, deceased, for many years a prominent figure in railroad circles in Toledo, more latterly as assistant traveling auditor of the Wheeling & Lake Erie road. was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jan. 24. 1853. and was a well known and influential member of the Oratorio Society of Toledo. He was the son of Zalman and Harriet (Valentine) Thomas. The father was- a large dealer in lumber in Cincinnati, but later retired and came to Toledo 642 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY to live, and died there. His wife also passed away while a resident of this city. Two children were born to the parents. of whom the elder was the subject of this sketch. The other is Lyda, the wife of Fred J. Buckwell. of Toledo. Frank Pierce Thomas took advantage of all the educational opportunities afforded by the Toledo public schools, and completed the high school course. After his graduation, he accepted a position as bill clerk in the office of the Wabash railroad, under James Ritchie, doing the work acceptably and efficiently for a number of years. When he left the employ of the Wabash road it was to accept a position as bookkeeper for the Wheeling & Lake Erie company. His industry and energy. and his careful, business-like methods, soon won him promotion to the position of head clerk in the local office. Subsequently, he was again honored by the directors of the company with promotion to the position of assistant traveling auditor of the company, and for eight years seryed as deputy to Samuel Ayres. Believing that his long years of labor entitled him to a respite, he retired from the company's service and lived quietly until the time of his death, which occurred March 27, 1888. The funeral, which was held at his home, brought many sorrowing friends to pay their last respects to his memory, before all that was mortal of him was interred in Woodlawn cemetery. In politics. Mr. Thomas was a Democrat. but in local affairs he supported the men whom he considered best adapted to the position sought. Mr. Thomas' wife was formerly Miss Anna A. Allen, only daughter of James J. and Susan (Kling) Allen, of Fort Wayne. Ind. Mr. Allen was a native of the Empire State and a direct descendant of Ethan Allen. famous in the history of this country as the captor of Fort Ticonderoga during the war of the Revolution. James J. Allen was one of the four children born to his parents and the third in order of birth, the others, now all deceased, being George W.. a former resident of Rochester. N. Y.; John Frederick. of Louisville. Ky.; and Fannie, who was married and living in Lockwood. Cal., at the time of her death. James J. Allen came west when a young man and settled in Texas. Ohio, where for a number of years he did contracting work and operated a farm within a short distance of the village. His death occurred April 9, 1860. His widow afterward removed to Fort Wayne, Ind.. but later came to Toledo. where she lived until death claimed her, July 28, 1898. Both Mr. and Mrs. Allen were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Allen was a Republican in his political views, but never sought .any office of public trust. Fraternally, he was allied with the Blue Lodge of the Masonic order. Mrs. Thomas now lives quietly retired at 113 Indiana avenue, Toledo, Ohio. Charles Andrew Harley, deceased, prominent for a number of years in the mercantile circles of Toledo, was born at Florence, Erie county, Ohio. Oct. 25. 1847. the son of Christian and Repine (Steltzer) Harley. The father was a native of the Fatherland, having been born at Baden-Baden. Germany, Feb..22, 1822. and early in his life came to the United States. His first permanent location in this country was in Erie county, where for a number of BIOGRAPHICAL - 643 years he was prosperously engaged as a retail dry-goods merchant. "believing that the then rapidly developing city of Toledo offered better opportunities in a business way, he came -here and established himself in the same line of merchandise. From Toledo, he removed, during the period of the Civil war, to Defiance, Ohio, and opened another store, in the management of which he continued until he retired from active participation in business and returned to Toledo to live. His demise occurred Aug. 2, 1905. The mother was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, in 1827, and is also deceased. Thirteen children were born to the parents. Helena. the eldest, is the widow of Louis Tiedeman and makes her home in Toledo : Caroline is the wife of John Bertsch, of Grand Rapids, Mich.: Charles Andrew, the subject of this memoir, is deceased ; Alonzo is a merchant in Defiance ; Henry is a resident of Toledo ; Perry resides in Defiance ; Mathilda is the wife of Robert T. Whitaker ; Edward M., Clinton, and John are deceased : 'William lives in Pioneer, Ohio ; and Nellie and Jay D. are residents of Defiance. All the children were brought up in the tenets of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which the father was for years an influential member. Charles Andrew Harley received an excellent preparatory education in the Berea Academy. When he was still a youth he entered the employ of his father, and, after a few years, his parent made him a partner in the Defiance concern. He continued in that relation until 1875, in which year he removed to Toledo and established himself in the business of dealing in furs, hats and caps. His industry and thrift enabled the enterprise to prosper beyond his best hope, and in a few years he had accumulated a sufficient competence to enable him to retire from active participation in business. This he did by disposing of his interests to his brother Edward, in 1894, and from that time until his death, which occurred Nov. 24, 1901, he devoted himself to managing the affairs of his stock farm, which was located at what is now the corner of Monroe street and Central avenue. In the matter of politics. he was allied with the Republican party, but never sought nor held public office of any nature. He continued in the Methodist Episcopal faith, in which he had been reared, being a regular and devout communicant of St. Paul's Church. Fraternally, he was affiliated with the National Union and was one of the influential members of the order. Mr. Harley's wife was formerly Miss Emma Pearson, daughter of Horan K. and Catherine (Kern)" Pearson, of Defiance. Ohio. Two daughters were born to bless this union. Grace, the elder, is the wife of H. B. King, of Chicago, Ill., and Florence makes her home with her mother, at 1804 Adams street, Toledo. Mrs. Harley's father, H. K. Pearson, was born in Heniker county, New Hampshire, Sept. 11, 1818, and his wife was born April 28, 1830, in Fayette county, Ohio. Mr. Pearson was the merchant of whom Christian Harley purchased his Defiance business, and when the former had disposed of his interest he went west and engaged in the livestock business. Subsequently. he retired and lived at Iowa Falls, Iowa, where his death occurred June 16, 1898, He was a Democrat in his political 644 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY belief and a member of the Universalist church. Mrs. Pearson passed away May 14, 1901. John Bancroft Bell, deceased, one of the prominent manufacturers of Toledo for several years, was born in Sylvania, Lucas county, Ohio, July 26, 1839, the son of William and Mary Miller Bell. Both parents were born in Scotland, where the father learned the trade of millwright. Soon after coming to the United States he located in Monroe county, Michigan, where he spent the most of his active life working at his trade. Some few years before his death he retired and removed to Buffalo, N. Y., where he and his good wife spent the balance of their lives. Mr. Bell, the father, joined the -Whig party soon after taking out his naturalization papers, and during his entire life he gave faithful service to that party. In religious matters both he and his wife were identified with the Presbyterian church. Fourteen children, all of whom are now deceased, were born to the parents. Their names were : Robert ; William ; Eliza, who was the wife of M. Ford ; Mary, the wife of Thomas Thompson. of Buffalo ; Rebecca, the wife of Hugh Thompson, also of Buffalo ; David ; Maria ; John B., of this sketch ; James A. H.; Charlotte ; and four others who died in infancy. John Bancroft Bell received his earliest educational training under private tutors, and later attended the public schools of Buffalo. N. V. When he had finished his preparatory work. he took up the study of dentistry, and in due time was granted the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery. Shortly after he had completed his course the war of secession had opened, and, fired with the same patriotic zeal which had enthused so many others of his fellow citizens, he enlisted in Company K of the Fifteenth Michigan infantry, and before the company had been mustered into the United States service, Nov. 14, 1861, he had been made a sergeant by the vote of his fellow soldiers. On -Oct. 1. 1862. he received the commission of lieutenant ; on Aug. 13, 1861, was made captain ; on Jan. 21, 1865, became a major ; and on May 25. of the same year. was commissioned brevet lieutenant-colonel for gallant and meritorious seryice on the field of action. Several months after the cessation of hostilities, on Aug. 13. 1865, he received his honorable discharge from the service. In its services for the Union the Fifteenth Michigan passed through some of the bloodiest contests of the war, and in all the battles Mr. Bell took a prominent part as a member of that organization. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth. Iuka, the siege of Vicksburg, the bloody Atlanta campaign, Sherman's famous march to the sea, and the campaign in the Carolinas. When he retired from military service he located in the city of Chicago. Ill., and established an office for the practice of dentistry. There he remained successfully engaged in the practice of his pro- fession until 1881, in which year he removed to Toledo. His removal to this city was that he might engage in the manufacture of soap with his brother. After a few years. he purchased the brother's interest in the concern and controlled and managed the business himself. He was eminently successful in the undertaking, due in large measure to his thorough and careful business methods, BIOGRAPHICAL - 645 his habits of industry and thrift, and his genial, wholesome nature. About 1896, he had opportunity to dispose of his business interests to good advantage, and doing so he retired from active participation in the field of business enterprise. Naturally, he was a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican party, and as the candidate of that party was at one time honored with election by his fellow citizens as their representative in the city council. In religious matters he was allied with the First Unitarian Church. On March 25, 1875, Mr. Bell was united in marriage with Miss Ada Marshall Johnson. the daughter of Francis Marshall and Susan Maria (Daniels') Johnson, of Newton, Mass. Three sons were born to bless this union—Marshall Johnson, Bruce Bancroft, and Lawrence Graeme—all of whom now live in Toledo. Marshall. the eldest, married Miss Frances Elizabeth Hatch, of Grand Rapids. Mich.. and by her is the father of two children—Rathbun Brewster and Ada Marshall. Mrs. Bell's father. Francis M. Johnson. was born in Kingston, Plymouth county. Massachusetts. and his wife was also a native of the same historic village. Mr. Johnson was a prominent commission merchant and dealt extensively in leather and hides, with headquarters in Boston. Mass. He had yarious other business interests at various times, and was always a prominent figure in the financial circles of the state. For several years he was the incumbent of the office of president of the Mount \Valliston Bank. of Quincy, Mass., and subsequently seryed several terms as a director and vice-president of the old National Bank of Redemption. of Boston. He was instrumental in organizing the Boston Safe Deposit & Trust Company, the first of its kind in Boston. and was its president for a long term of years, until the time of his death. July 6, 1878. Always a keen student of public affairs, he allied himself with the Republican party, in the belief that it was the best agency to call out his ideals of government. During his active life he was several times the candidate of his party for yarious public offices. and among others to which he was elected was that of representative in the lower house of the Massachusetts legislature. Subsequently he also held for several terms the office of railroad commissioner of the state by appointment of the goyernor. He also served with success and distinction in both branches of the General Court. In religious matters. he was an influential member of the Unitarian society throughout the East. Mr. Johnson's ancestry was of excellent Colonial stock, dating back through his grandmother to Elder Brewster. of the Mayflower Pilgrims. For several years after her husband's demise, which occurred at his home in Newton. Mass.. Mrs. Johnson made her home in Toledo with her daughter. Mrs. Bell. It was from the latter's home. in June, 1903. she took the long journey from whence there is no return. Mrs. Bell's residence continues to be in Toledo, where her two unmarried sons make their home. DeWitt Clinton Dewey, deceased. for many years one of the prominent figures in Toledo's history. was born in Rochester. N. Y., Feb. 23. 1826. the son of David and Elinor B. (Eaton) Dewey. The father, David, was born in Hebron, Conn., Jan. 6, 1773, and 646 - MEMOIRS OF LUCAS COUNTY during most of his active life was engaged in agricultural pursuits, having owned and operated a large farm near Rochester, N. Y. During the idle months of the year he supplemented his income by working as a cobbler, a trade which he learned when a boy. His demise occurred at the family home near Rochester, Feb. 21, 1826, just two days prior to the birth of the subject of this memoir. the youngest of his twelve children. DeWitt C. Dewey obtained his scholastic training in the public schools of Rochester, and before he had reached his majority it became necessary for him to earn his own living and to help in the support of the large family. Finding that the work of a sailor on the lakes offered the best remuneration, he secured a job and worked at it for some months. The labor was not congenial. however, and in the month of October. 1855, he came to Toledo. Here he learned the trade of painter and decorator, and served his apprenticeship in it in a surprisingly short time. As a journeyman in the vocation he was engaged when the great struggle against the secession of the Southern States broke out in 1861. Imbued with a deep feeling as to the right and justice of the Union cause, he determined to give his services to his country in an attempt to suppress the uprising against the peace and unity of the nation. Accordingly, he enlisted in Company F of the Sixty-seventh Ohio infantry, and was chosen by his fellow soldiers as the second lieutenant of the organization, and subsequently, by his acts of brayery and gallantry on the field, was promoted first to the position of first lieutenant and later to the captaincy of the company. The Sixty-seventh saw service in many of the hardest fought and longest drawn out battles of the war, and was part of the force that administered to the renowned Confederate general. "Stonewall" Jackson. his first defeat. In the latter part of 1863, Mr. Dewey received a serious wound, which, when it had healed, left him incapacitated for further active service in the army, and he received an honorable discharge. Returning to Toledo, he re-engaged in the trade which he had left to take up arms in behalf of the Union. After a few years he relinquished this work to become secretary for one of the county officials, with offices at the county courthouse. He was thus engaged until his retirement, some years before his death, which occurred Aug. 5, 1900. In the matter of politics Mr. Dewey was naturally allied with the Republican party from the time of its inception, but he never sought nor held any elective office. His religious ideas found expression in membership in the Congregational church. Socially and fraternally, he was allied with the local post of the Grand Army of the Republic, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Masonic order. Mr. Dewey was twice married. On Nov. 8, 1849. occurred his marriage to Miss Parmelia M. Plumb, the daughter of Miles D. Plumb, of Conneaut, Ohio. One son. Frank Dewey, was the issue of this union. He was born in December, 1853, and died just before attaining his majority.. in June. 1873. Mrs. Dewey passed away June 25, 1877. Mr. Dewey's second wife, who survives him, was Miss Sophia J. Wise, the daughter of Henry and Julia Ann (Young) Wise, of Toledo. No children were born of BIOGRAPHICAL - 647 this union. Mr. Dewey was a direct descendant of Josiah Dewey, and through this relationship was closely related to the naval hero of the battle of Manila Bay in the Spanish-American war of 1898. Mrs. Dewey now makes her home at 1939 Linwood avenue. Michael Whalen, who died at Toledo. 1 July 7, 1901, was a native of the Emerald Isle. having been born in County Clare, Ireland, in the year 1826. His father, Luke Whalen. was also a native of County Clare. where he passed his entire life, engaged in agricultural pursuits. Michael was educated in the parochial schools of his native land and worked on his father's farm until he was thirty years of age. He then came to America, landing at Quebec, Canada. where he found employment as a mail clerk on a steamboat line. at which he worked for some time. A few years later he came to Ohio. locating in Wood county. and here his first employment was with the Dayton & Michigan railroad. which afterward became the Cincinnati. Hamilton Dayton. In 1881 he removed to Toledo to work for the Cloyer Leaf railroad, and soon after becoming a resident of that city was placed in charge of the company's yards there, which position he held until the time of his death. on the date aboye mentioned. Mr. Whalen was a firm believer in the principles and policies- of the Democratic party, but he was never a seeker for public office. On Oct. 20. 1834, Mr. Whalen and Miss Bridget Greeley. a native of County Galway, Ireland. were united in marriage, and of this union were born eight children. James is the agent of the Empire Fast Freight Line at Toledo ; Martin, Patrick, and Mary Ann are deceased ; Ellen lives with her mother and sister in Toledo ; Michael and Margaret are deceased ; and Delia is the wife of Thomas Marlowe, of Toledo, with whom the mother makes her home. Mrs. Whalen is proud of the fact that she has nine grandchildren. Four of these—Colette, Alfred. Mary, and Norine—are the children of her son James ; four others—Harold. Raymond, Burke, and James—are the children of her son Michael : and her daughter. Mrs. Marlowe, has one daughter —Madeline. The family are members of St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church. Elijah Harper Norton, deceased. was one of the brave defenders of the flag who, after the Southern uprising had been suppressed and peace restored, demonstrated in the peaceful walks of life that the patriotic and fearless soldier possesses all of the qualifications that make the honest and useful citizen. Mr. Norton was a native born son of Ohio, haying first beheld the light of day in the village of Clyde. Sept. 18, 1843. His parents were Washington Adams and Caroline (Harper) Norton, whose marriage took place at Harpersfield, Ashtabula county. Ohio, in October, 1839. The father followed farming at Clyde during the greater part of his active career, but later in life he removed to the city of Cleveland, where he lived in practical retirement until he passed from the scenes of life's actiyities. And there the mother also passed away. Of their marital union there were born six children. the names of whom in the order of birth are given as follows : Jonathan D., who is a resident of Topeka, Ran.; Elijah H. was the second born ; John Adams 648 - MEMOIRS OP LUCAS COUNTY is deceased; Caroline T. is the wife of Robert Waterson, of Cleveland ; David Z. also resides in the Forest City ; and Frank J. is deceased. Elijah Harper Norton, to whom this memoir is more particularly dedicated, received his education in the public schools of the city of Cleveland, but early began his independent career as an employe of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway Company, accepting a position as clerk in the offices at Cleveland. He was thus employed when the call was made for men to defend the Union against the assaults of an armed insurrection, and at the organization of the Eighty-fourth Ohio infantry he enlisted as a private in Company E. This regiment was organized at Camp Chase, in May and June, 1862, to serve for three months, and on June 11 was ordered to Cumberland, Md., where it was employed in preventing transportation of supplies into the Confederate lines. Mr. Norton served valiantly with that regiment until his term of enlrstment had expired, and then with it received an honorable discharge from the service. But the great internecine strife was still in progress and to him it seemed that he had not fully discharged the debt that he owed his country; therefore he evidenced a desire for further military service. To that end the colonel of his regiment, William Lawrence, wrote a letter to Governor Tod. under date of Sept. 4, 1862, from Cumberland, Md., strongly urging the appointment of Mr. Norton to a position in another regiment. Colonel Lawrence wrote as follows: "Corp. Elijah Norton, of Company E, Eighty-fourth regiment, desires a place as adjutant in one of the new Ohio regiments. He is a young man of excellent morals and habits, energetic, of decided military taste, and one of the best drilled men in his company. He is, in my opinion, competent for the place and worthy of it. I recommend him accordingly. His mother, as I understand, is a widow in Cleveland, with three young children to support, and is a most estimable lady. He was for a considerable time employed in a railroad office and is regarded by me and his captain as one of the most meritorious young men in his company. I hope he may succeed." Although Mr. Norton's aspirations were not realized in this particular. his military ardor was not dampened. and soon thereafter he joined. as a private, Company C of the Ohio National Guard. After the war was oyer, and the need for his seryices in a military capacity was no longer urgent, he came to Toledo and again entered the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway Company, accepting employment in the freight offrces. He later was promoted to ticket agent in the Union station at Toledo. and he seryed in this capacity until 1868, when he severed his connection with the banking business. He then became identified with bank in pursuits. his first position in that connection being teller of the First National Bank of Toledo. in which position he served until 1871. He then became a member of the banking firm of Keeler. Holcomb & Company and remained so associated until the time of his death, Sept. 15, 1886. Aside from his banking interests, Mr. Norton was also connected with other business enterprises, among which was the Lenk Wine Company, in which he served as a member of the BIOGRAPHICAL - 649 board of directors. In politics. he gave an unswerving allegiance to the men and measures of the Republican party,. and, although he never essayed the role of an offrce-seeker, he seryed two terms as a member of the Board of Education, and was also for a time a trustee of the Toledo Public Library. His religious views were, as are those of his widow, expressed by an attendance at the First Congregational Church of Toledo, and he kept alive the memory of war times by association with his comrades in Toledo Post, No. 107, Grand Army of the Republic. In Masonic circles he was especially prominent, having taken the Thirty-second degree of that ancient order, and in 1879 he was the Grand Master of the State of Ohio. Socially, he was one of the founders and a charter member of both the Middle Bass and Toledo clubs, and his identification as a member with any organization was always gladly welcomed by his associates. On Aug. 18, 1869. Mr. Norton was married to Miss Mary A. Evans, daughter of John and Rachel (Evans) Evans, prominent citizens of Troy, N. Y.. and of this union there were born three children : Richard Evans. of Ardmore, Pa., and Julia Page and Harold Harper, both of whom reside at home with their mother. The father of Mrs. Norton was a native of Scotland and her mother was born in Troy, N. Y. Carl Churchill Knights, deceased, was born at Plainview, Minn., Noy. 10, 1867 ; received his education in Toledo, where his parents made their home from the time he was quite small, and graduated in the Toledo High School. In 1898. he enlisted as a private in Company H, Sixth Ohio infantry, and during his term of service was promoted to the rank of corporal. At the close of the Spanish-American war. he was mustered out and honorably discharged from the seryice and returned to private life in Toledo. On Oct. 10, 1901, he died at his home. 134 Seventeenth street. Mr. Knights was a devout communicant of Trinity Episcopal Church and active in the promotion of church work. He was married. April 28, 1896. to Miss Lucy Anna Washner. of Toledo. daughter of Edward and Mary Washner. Two sons were born of this union. Carlton and Norman. both of whom are deceased. The domestic ties, of such happy promise. were formed only to be broken, and the death of Mr. Knights. thus cut down in the prime of life, was inexpressibly sad. Besides his widow. Mr. Knights' father and two sisters survive him. Mr. Knights was educated as a bookkeeper and had already become known in Toledo as an unusually accurate and expert accountant ; at the time of his death a promising business career was open before him. In political sympathy. Mr. Knights adhered stanchly to the principles of the Republican party. He was a member of the Toledo Cycling Club. Mrs. Knights is a native of Cleveland. where her father was foreman of a factory ; the family moved to Galion. Ohio. where Mr. Washner accepted a position with the Erie railroad as engineer. Mrs. Washner has continued to make her home in Galion since the death of her husband. who was killed in a wreck, near Kent. Ohio, Jan. 18, 1890. The family is identified with the Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mr. Washner was a member ; he belonged to the Brother-