MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 475 more than thirty years he was connected with the Madison National Bank, of which his father so long was president, and 'during this time was active in all movements designed to advance the best interests of London and Madison county. A notable characteristic of Mr. Minshall was the systematic and exact methods employed by him in the transaction of his extensive business affairs. Mr. Minshall was an earnest and active member of the Methodist .church at London and at the time of his death had been for years a member of the official board of that church. His death occurred at his home in London on Monday, December 29, 1902, and was the occasion for wide mourning throughout the county, for he, .even as his father had been, had been a good citizen. tried and true, faithful in all his relations with his fellow men. To the union of Wyatt and Elizabeth (Fisher) Minshall there was born but one child. a daughter. Minnie, now the widow of the late Charles Cheseldine, for many years a prominent merchant of the city of London and president of the Madison National Rank. who is living with her two sons, Raymond and Kenneth, in their pleasant home in London. JOHN C. BRIDGMAN. No man in Madison county, or indeed in all central Ohio, has a wider acquaintance and a more devoted following of faithful friends than has John C. Bridgman, the venerable president of the Madison National Bank, of London, this county. Though long past the octogenarian stage, Mr. Bridgman is still a man of remarkable vigor and activity. the energy which forced him to the front of affairs in this county having sustained him long beyond the time when most men are content to lay down the cares of business and retire to the calm of their firesides. With mind as alert as ever and with bodily lowers unimpaired by the weight of years, Mr. Bridgman still continues his life of ceaseless and tireless activity and is still regarded, as he has been for many years, as one of the most important factors in the commercial and financial life of this section. John C. Bridgman, who has been prominently identified with the affairs of Madison county for the past seventy years, traces his ancestry back beyond the time of the British protectorate, the Right Hon. Sir Orlando Bridgman, English knight and baronet, having been lord-keeper of the Great Seal of England prior to the Cromwellian period. Sir Orlando's son. James Bridgman, came to America in 1640, escaping the turmoil which preceded the establishment of Cromwell's dictatorship, and settled at Hartford, Connecticut. later removing to Springfield, Massachusetts, and thence to Northampton. New Hampshire. where he established his family. John, his only son, had six sons, John. born in 1674; James, 1677; Isaac, 1680; Ebenezer, 1683; Thomas, 1686, and Orlando, 1701. John, the eldest, had a son Jonathan, born in Connecticut. who located on a farm on Moose mountain, near Hanover. New Hampshire. He, too, had six sons, Isaac. John, Asa, Abel, Gideon and Orlando, all of whom became ministers of the Baptist church. The ,Rev. Abel Bridgman married a Miss Fowler, a cousin of 0. S. Fowler. the celebrated phrenologist, and their son, Erastus, born at Hanover. New Hampshire, in 1796, married Mary Flagg, a native of Massachusetts, daughter of Dr. Razelle Flagg, to which union were born seven children, Mary Frances, John C., Nathan C.. Adeline, Charles, Augusta and Mendal, all of whom are still living save the latter three. The father of these children died in 1874, his wife having preceded him to the grave in 1868, and both are buried near Hanover, New Hampshire. John C. Bridgman, fifth child and second son of Erastus and Mary (Flagg) Bridgman, was born at Hanover, New Hampshire, on March 24, 1831, and was there reared. He obtained a fair common-school education, which he supplemented by a part of an academic course. and on January 19. 1853, was united in marriage to Lucy R. Pelton. 476 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. who was born in New Hampshire on May 2, 1834, daughter of David M. Pelton, was born in Lyme, New Hampshire, on November 26, 1804, son of David M. and L (Stone) Pelton. Upon the death of David M. Pelton, Sr., his widow married the fat of Millard Fillmore, and thus became the stepmother of the thirteenth President of United States. David M. Pelton, Jr., married Sally Ross, who was born in Hanov New Hampshire, to which union five children were born, namely: Lucy B., who marri Mr. Bridgman, born on May 2, 1834; Isabelle F., August 3, 1840; David C., June 1843 ; Brewster, August 23, 1848, and Franklin R., August 20, 1852. David M. Pelt Jr., died on April 3, 1872, his wife having predeceased him a little more than one yea her death having occurred on February 8, 1871. The latter's father, Thomas Ross. wan soldier in the patriot army during the Revolutionary War, having enlisted at the age eighteen. The year following their marriage, John C. Bridgman and wife came to this coun arriving in London, the county seat. on April 13, 1854. Mr. Bridgman then was twen three years of age, full of energy, enterprising, industrious and far-sighted; posse boundless confidence in his ability to make a firm place for himself in his new ho He was for a time employed in the dry-goods store of W. W. Fellows, as a clerk, remain ing there, however, only six months, at the end of which time his services were secu by Samuel Tetley, from whose store he went to the store of Shaw & Toland, where remained about a year. In 1856, two years after his arrival in this county. Mr. Br man recognized the possibilities in the calling of the crier of public sales, and eute actively into the business of auctioneer, in which he was destined to achieve a remar able success. This was at the beginning of the famous stock sales in Madison coun and for many years Mr. Bridgman devoted his whole time to this business, his sue as an auctioneer becoming little short of phenomenal ; the name of "Jack" Bridgm becoming well known all over central Ohio, his jovial manner, free and ready wit sterling common-sense qualities winning for him the friendship of all. In the year 1 as an instance of his wide success. Mr. Bridgman's sales aggregated more than three hundred and fifty thousand dollars. In 1908 Mr. Bridgman was elected president of Madison National Bank, of London, and ever since has occupied that responsible positi long having been recognized as one of the leaders in financial circles hereabout. Tho past eighty-three years of age at this writing (1915), he retains the heartiest inter in affairs and is generally acknowledged to be one of the strongest personal forces the entire community. To John C. and Lucy B. (Pelton) Bridgman were born seven children, four of who are still living, namely: Franklin R., of Muskogee. Oklahoma, prominently identified with the Nowata county oil field, in which he has large holdings, as well as being t owner of eight thousand acres of fenced land in Oklahoma, on which he annually rai more than a thousand head of cattle, besides being connected with large interests and about London, Ibis county, being the owner of seven hundred acres of land in northern part of Madison county. married Laura Wilson. daughter of Taylor Wil of this county. to which union three children have been born, Dorothy. Orlando Janice; Marian Frances, who married William Chrisman, of London. this county, which union was born one child, a daughter, Lydia. who married Graham Denmead, West Liberty, this state, and has one son, Robert G-.; Mary' Stratton, who married Davis, of Columbus, Ohio, to which union two children have been born. Marian Robert, and 011ie, who married John S. Adkins, an architect, living at Norwood. a su of Cincinnati, to which union two children have been born, daughters, Elizabeth Marcia. Mrs. Bridgman died in 1906, and Mrs. Chrisman keeps house for her verse father, she and her family living in the old Bridgman home in London. MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 477 John C. Bridgman was a. member of the London city council during the period hich witnessed the construction of the water-works system and the gas plant and in ny other ways has demonstrated his public spirit, ever having been foremost in all rks looking to the city's progress. He is a Mason of high degree, having attained to h the chapter and the council in that ancient order. Few bankers in Ohio have wider personal acquaintance than he and for years he has stood very high in financial les throughout the central part of the state, his associates having the most unbounded confidence in his sagacity and sound business judgment. Throughout his home vicinity ere is no one who is held in higher regard than he, the whole community paying hint e willing tribute of its utmost esteem and affection. JUDGE FRANK J. MURRAY. Literally "born to the law," Judge Murray, one of the best-known and most popular figures on the bench in this section of Ohio. has fulfilled every expectation his early career created and there are many in this county who confidently predict for him much greater things in the pursuit of his honored profession. Son of one of the most scholarly and dignified members of the bar of Madison county, Judge Murray was bred in an atmosphere that inclined him to the law even from the days of his earliest conception of things. and his arduous course of studies was based from the first on the expectation of taking his place in due time at the bar which his father so long had honored. These studies were completed in 1910, and in that same year he was admitted to the bar by the supreme court, entering -Practice in the office with his father. head of the distinguished firm of Murray & Emery. The young attorney. at once found favor, both at the bar of the court and at that higher bar of public opinion, and immediately his friends began to predict that he would go far in the practice of his chosen profession. An early realization of these predictions came in 1912. when the young attorney was elected to the important position of probate judge for Madison county, an office upon which he entered in February following his election, since which time he has been executing the exacting duties of that office with the utmost fidelity to the public weal and the most scrupulous regard for the high trust reposed in him. On another page in this volume. in the biographical sketch relating to Judge Murray's father, the Hon. Michael S. Murray. of London, there is set out in full a history of the Murray family in Madison county. to which the reader is respectfully referred for details regarding the genesis of the subject of this sketch, it being sufficient to say here, in that connection, that Frank J. Murray is the second child and first son of Michael S. and Anna (Gallagher) Murray. the former of whom is the son of Martin and Bridget (Roddy) Murray. natives of County Mayo. Ireland, who emigrated to America and in 1854 settled in Madison county, locating on a farm near the village of Solon. in Stokes township. where they remained until 1890, in which year they retired from the farm and moved into the city of London. where they spent the remainder of their days. the death of the grandmother occurring in 1910 and that of the grandfather in 1911. They were the parents of eleven children, seven of whom are still living, of whom one. Michael S. Murray, of the firm of Murray & Emery, attorneys at London, this county. for years has been regarded as one of the leaders of the bar in this section of Ohio. Frank J. Murray. son of Michael S. and Anna (Gallagher) Murray was born in the city of London. county seat of Madison county. Ohio, on October 19, 1884 and was graduated from the London high school in 1904. He then entered. Ohio State University, taking the classical course, and was graduated from that excellent old institution with the class of 1905. In his senior year at the university, Mr. Murray received the high 478 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. honor, coveted by all scholars, of election to Phi Beta Kappa, the honorary fraternity Membership in which is based exclusively upon scholarship. Following his course in the university, Mr. Murray spent the term of 1908-09 at the University of Minnesota La School, at Minneapolis, after which he entered the law school of Ohio State University, from which he was graduated in 1910. In June of that year he was admitted to practice at the bar of the Madison circuit court and entered upon the practice of his chosen profession, in association with his father, in the office of Murray & Emery, at London. He continued thus in practice until his election as probate judge of Madison county on November 5, 1912. Judge Murray entered upon the duties of this office on April 23, :1913. and since that time has been devoting his full energies to the service of the public. On April 23, 1913, Frank J. Murray was united in marriage to Florence Weisz. of Columbus, Ohio, daughter of F . B. Weisz, a prominent coal merchant of that city. and to this union one child has been born, a. daughter, Elizabeth Ann, born on June 28, 1914. Judge and Mrs. Murray are devout members of the Catholic church, in the various beneficences of which they are deeply interested, as well as in all good works hereabout. They take an active and prominent part. in the social affairs of their home city and are extremely popular among their large circle of friends and acquaintances. Judge Murray is. a Democrat and has taken his place very rightfully as one of the leaders of that party in this county. He is a member of the influential London Club and a member of the Knights of Columbus. in the affairs of both of which organizations he takes an active interest, his genial ways and cordial manner in his relations with his fellowmen making Hint a prime favorite with his associates. Scholarly, diligent and industrious; a line student of the law, observing with the utmost nicety full' regard for the high traditions of his honorable calling and scrupulously attentive to his duty to the public; Judge Murray is doing well the part to which the community has called him. HON. WILLIAM M. JONES. "In Memoriam." No two words combine in more meaningful expression than these. How much of respectful consideration; how much of tender devotion, and how much of sincere regard for the memory of one who has gone before, is implied in the use of the term with which this paragraph is introduced. In a monumental work of the character contemplated by the compilers of this extraordinary volume, it seems eminently fitting that there should, here and there throughout these pages, be presented for the consideration, not only of the present generation, but for those who, perchance, shall have occasion to review these pages in generations yet to come, a brief and modest summary of the lives of those departed fathers of the commonwealth who long since have passed front the scenes of present worldly activity. In following this design, the biographer surely would be remiss in his duty to the people of Madison county if this book were permitted to go forth without an epitome of the life and of the works of the gentleman whose name heads this particular chapter of the biographical section of the history of the county, a name which has the power to recall many pleasant memories on the part of those now surviving, who, in his day here. knew so well and respected so highly the subject of this respectful memoir. The late Hon. William M. Jones, for years one of the best-known and most prominent citizens of Madison county, was a man eminently qualified for the important position he so long occupied in the civic life of this community and the value of his service to the public never can be properly estimated, for such service does mit end with the life of him who renders it, but goes on, gathering weight as it goes, enriching the lives of future generations. Faithful in all his relations in life, a tried and trusted public MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 479 servant and a good citizen, Mr. Jones was found to be worthy of high rewards and he became a man of large substance. Rich as he was, however, in worldly possessions, he was far richer in those more valuable possessions, the esteem and confidence of his fellowmen, and his passing, in 1907, was widely mourned throughout this section of the state. where he was so well known and where he had labored so intelligently and so usefully. William M. Jones was born on a farm near the village of Yankeetown, Fayette county. Ohio, on December 5, 1850, son of James and Sarah (White) Jones, pioneer residents of that county, the former of whom was born there in the year 1813. Reared on the farm, William M. Jones attended the common schools of his home township until he had acquired sufficient education to matriculate at the old Bloomingdale Academy, from which he later was graduated. He then entered Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, and was graduated from that excellent old institution in 1872, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. The extensive farming interests of his father requiring his attention. he returned to the farm upon receiving his diploma and was thus engaged at the old home in Fayette county until 1880, in which year he came to Madison county, locating at Mt. Sterling, where he lived for two years, at the end of which time, in 1882, he moved to the county seat and made his home in London the rest of his life. Upon his arrival in London. Mr. .Tones engaged in the grain business and until the day of his death was thus engaged. Ills enterprise and energy were exerted most successfully in this business. and he prospered largely, owning. it the time of his death, in addition to his extensive elevator interests at London, partnership interests in grain elevators at Mt. Sterling, Denby and Orient. This form of endeavor was but one outlet for Mr. Jones' boundless energy, however, for he was interested largely in various other enterprises. In addition to his extensive farming interests, for he was the owner of a farm of nearly one thousand acres of fine land in Fayette and Pickaway counties, he was prominently identified with. the affairs of the Madison National Bank and the London Exchange Bank. of London, for nine years prior to his death, having been president of the former institution and for many years one of the most influential directors of the latter. Ever deeply interested in enterprises which had as their object the advancement of the general interests of the community, he was also president of the London Home Telephone Company and director in numerous ether enterprises. When London's beautiful new library was completed he was chosen a member of the board and for several years served as president of this useful public service body. his service in that connection having proved of large benefit to the library. In his public services the Hon. William M. Jones brought to the commonwealth a most valuable equipment, his large business experience and training admirably fitting him for the important public duties to which his admiring fellow citizens repeatedly called him, and it is undoubted that he performed a very great service in this community. It was not long after his arrival in London that Mr. Jones was called to serve as a member of the city council, and he was kept there several years, his service in that connection being of large benefit to the city at large. He also was called to act on the city board of education, and in that capacity performed equally meritorious public service, his interest in the school system and his well-trained mind giving to his duties in that connection unusual value. In 1886 Mr. Jones was elected county treasurer. his manner of administering the affairs of that office commending him so highly to the public that he was re-elected in 1888. In 1895 he was elected, by a plurality of more than four thousand votes, to represent the senatorial district of Madison, Clark and Champaign counties in the seventy-second Ohio General Assembly. and he was regarded as one of the foremost members of the upper house during that session of the Assembly, his sound judgment and clear thinking, coupled with his acute and comprehensive 480 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. knowledge of public affairs, giving to his counsels in that body a weight and solidity that his confreres soon learned to rely on and he exerted a wide influence upon the deliberations of the Senate in that memorable session.. Upon completing this term of service, Mr. Jones declined further political honors and devoted himself thereafter to his large and growing business interests. On February 22, 1877, William M. Jones was united in marriage to Lucy Pancoast of Pancoastburg, Ohio, and to this union five children were born. Mr. Jones death occurred on Wednesday, April 17, 1907, after an illness of eleven weeks, and was widely mourned, for be was a good man, who had done well his part in life. Mrs. Jones is still living in her beautiful home on North Main street, in the city of London. and enjoys countless evidences of the esteem and affection of many friends. The Hon. William M. Jones was a progressive, enterprising and public-spirited citizen, faithful in the performance of manifold duties, and his memory long will he cherished in this community. He was a kindly man, a true neighbor,, whose genial. ever-ready smile greeted one and all, and few men in this county ever enjoyed a larger measure of public popularity than he, his gentle spirit making him literally a friend of all the world. HIRAM WHITE RICHMOND. Prominent as a private citizen in the history of this county. and connected by marriage with the famous Wilson family of Madison county, Hiram White Richmond, who died on October 14, 1888. was one of the pioneer horse dealers in this section of Ohio and one of the large landowners of Madison county. Associated with his brother for many years in the horse business, he built up a large fortune which was invested mostly in farm lands. Hiram White Richmond was born on May 7, 1824, in New Jersey, and died at his home in London. this county, to which he had moved in 1870. He remained active in business until about the time of his death, and for thirty-five years was a large dealer in and shipper of horses. having sold most of his purchases in the Philadelphia market. The horses were gathered up through the country in lots of thirty or more and taken to Philadelphia by. the way of the national road, under the care of three or four men. He specialized in coach horses and found a ready market in the East for all he was able to buy in this section of the state. He had an estate in New Jersey and, when going to that state to look after his land,. was accustomed to take with him a number of horses. Hiram W. Richmond came to Ohio in 1827, with his widowed mother and family. when he was about three years old, the family locating at Cincinnati. They later settled near Dayton, in Montgomery county, moving to that county, in 1842, when Hiram White Richmond was about eighteen years old. His mother married secondly. Robert Hutchinson, by whom she had one daughter. Laura, who married Estus K. Turpin of Newtown, Hamilton county, Ohio. The Richmond children were. Hiram W.. the subject of this sketch: Eliza J.. who married Charles Arbuckle, and William, who for many years was associated with his brother in the purchase and sale of horses. Altogether Hiram W. and William Richmond were in partnership for about thirty-five years, William Richmond buying horses in this section of Ohio, his brother giving particular attention to their sale in the East. William Richmond lived with his mother at Summerford, this county, and later went with her to a farm near Dayton. There he married and spent the rest of his life there, dying in Montgomery county at the .age of nearly eighty years, a wonderfully well-preserved man at the time of his death. He owned a farm in Somerford township, a part of the farm which he MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 481 had owned in partnership with his brother, Hiram W. Richmond, and to which he added until he owned abont three hundred acres. He was accustomed to return to Madison county .once a mouth, giving his personal attention to the farm and maintaining his earlier relations with the people of Madison county. His son, Edward Richmond, became a resident of the farm and operated it after. his father's death until the farm was sold. It is now a part of the present Richmond farm owned by Miss Richmond. The first husband of Hiram W. Richmond's mother was David Richmond, who died at Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Hutchinson, her second husband, died at Summerford. She later married Gardner Lewis, the father of Schuyler Lewis, who was the father of Howard Lewis. During the latter period of her life, she lived in Madison county. She died at London while visiting her son Hiram, and her remains were buried in the Richmond lot in Kirkwood cemetery. In company with his brother, William, Hiram W. Richmond purchased a great deal of land in this county, and when the division was made he received two hundred and twenty-nine acres. To this tract of land he added from time to time until he personally owned three hundred and forty acres. When his wife's land was included, there were six hundred acres in all. Late in life, he purchased a farm near London consisting of about one hundred acres, to which he moved in 1870. He added to this farm until it included. one hundred and twenty acres, and his widow, since his death, has added more land until it now comprises one hundred and and eighty acres. A little. however, has been sold for town lots. Hiram W. Richmond also purchased a (aria in Union township of three hundred acres, and, about the same time, another in Paint township, of eighty acres; the Richmonds owning at the time of Mr. Richmond's death. thirteen hundred acres. Hiram W. Richmond was a self-made man in every respect. Ile was not only an extensive dealer in horses, but he likewise dealt in all kinds of stock, especially fat cattle. On September 21, 1852, Hiram White Richmond was married to Emeline Wilson, the only survivor of the nineteen children born to Valentine and Nancy (Roberts) Wilson. Mrs. Richmond was born in the old brick house on the bank of Deer creek, Somerford township. September 12, 1831 and received, as her share of the estate of her father, some three hundred acres in Somerford township, about three miles below the old home. Soon after her father's death, she began to add to this tract of land as a nucleus until it has become a tract of six hundred acres, the present Richmond farm in Somerford township. She inherited from her mother a tract of land o which she has added from time to time until this farm now includes one hundred and sixty acres, located on the national pike, west of Lafayette. Mrs. Richmond has managed her own farm, not only the farm in Somerford township, but the London home place, as well as the place on the national pike, west of Lafayette. She keeps a great deal of stock, and employs tenants to do the work on the farm. Mrs. Richmond has many thoroughbred horses on the farm, and had, at the end of the current season, (1915), about one hundred head of cattle of her own raising, also a large number of horses. To Hiram W. and Emeline (Wilson) Richmond, were born four children, namely : Alice. who married Edward Armstrong, of London, this county, and who died on August 17, 1913. at the age of fifty-eight; Charles S., of Columbus, who owns the Union township farm and is an extensive horse dealer, and R. E. and Emma, who live at home with their mother. Miss Emma Richmond has bought her Uncle William's farm, making in all about six hundred and fifty acres, and rents for cash, (31) 482 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. but keeps up the improvements on the farm. She also owns the Paint township farm of three hundred acres, which her sister formerly owned. Mrs. Richmond was president of the ladies' aid society of the Methodist Episcopal church for twenty-five years, and was one of the leading members of the missionary society. She has also been prominent in the Woman's Literary Club and in the Franchise Club of London. Miss Emma Richmond has been an active worker in the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and is ex-president of the county organization. She is also active in literary clubs. Mrs. Alice Armstrong was the president of the London Library Association at the time of her death, and had held that position for several years. She was also active in all the woman's clubs of London, especially so in the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and the Franchise Club. Mrs. Alice Armstrong's home was built for her by her father near his own home. The present Richmond home has been remodeled by Mrs. Richmond. Many entertainments have been held in this old house, which for years has been the social center among the gentler folk of the city. Mr. Richmond was a life-long Democrat, but never aspired for town or county office. lie was a great "home man" and possessed of a very sociable disposition ; a man well known and well liked throughout this section of the state and a great entertainer, his home being noted far and wide for the charming character of its hospitality. PROF. JAMES A. RUNYAN. The people of Madison county have good reason for indulging a proper degree of pride in connection with the excellent school system which obtains in this county. In few, if any, counties in the state are the schools conducted on a higher plane,. or is the standard of education maintained at a higher point than in Madison county. With an earnest and public-spirited board of education, a loyal and devoted corps of teachers and a singularly painstaking and capable county superintendent of schools, there is little reason why the schools should not be conducted on a high plane; and with these several potent forces all operating in harmony. each with an eye single to the common good,. there is little reason why the present high standard of the schools should not be advanced to an even higher degree of efficiency. To the accomplishment of this very desirable end, Prof. James A. Runyan. the present efficient superintendent of schools in Madison county, is definitely pledged, and it is gratifying to note that all the virile forces of his high office are being exerted in that direction, constantly and consistently advancing in every way the cause of education in this county. Professor Runyan is an educator of many years practical experience, with a wide and comprehensive knowledge of the needs of the public schools. and since he has been occupying his present position as superintendent of schools has revealed administrative abilities of a very high order. He is a firm believer in the modern centralization system of the rural schools and has committed himself to a general campaign of improvement that is certain to be productive of the most gratifying and far-reaching results. James A. Runyan was born in the pleasant town of Catawba, Clark county. Ohio, on December 19, 1866. son of J. M. and Mary (McClenen) Runyan, the former a native of the same County and the latter of Harper's Ferry, Virginia ; both of whom are still living at Catawba. where, in March, 1916, they will celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage. J. M. Runyan is a large landholder in Clark county, being the owner of several fine farms there. and is living in comfortable retirement in his pleasant home in Catawba, he and his good wife enjoying in the evening of their lives the ample rewards of their earliest endeavors during the more active period of their lives. They are the parents of six children, all of whom live in Clark county save the subject of this sketch, MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 483 named, in the order of their birth, as follow: James A., Clarence. Edward, Percy, Charles and Maude. James A. Runyan received his elementary education in the public schools of Catawba, Ohio, and after finishing the high school course there began teaching school and later entered the Ohio Northern College at Ada, from which excellent institution he was graduated in 1891, with the degree of Bachelor of Science. Not content with these scholastic honors, Professor' Runyan later entered Antioch College, from which he was graduated in 1906, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and later received from the Ohio State University his Master degree. Professor Runyan's teaching career began in 1885, and for five years he taught in the district schools of Clark county at points not too remote from his home in Catawba. He early developed abilities of a high order in the teaching, profession and presently was called on to accept larger responsibilities, and for twenty years his services were in demand as superintendent of city schools in Ohio, these several superintendencies comprising the following periods of service: At Milford Center, five years; Fairfield, six years; Lawrenceville, three years, and Plain City, six years. In 1914 the Madison county board of education called Professor Runyan to the office of superintendent of the schools of this county, and since that time he hashed' devoting his best abilities to the faithful performance of the duties thus involved. Professor Runyan has held a state high-school certificate for many years, and for two terms served as a member of the county board of examiners and is at present ex-officio clerk of the Madison county board of education. On May 30, 1892, Prof. James A. Runyan was united in marriage to Ola Sholty, of Putnam county, Ohio, and to this union two children have been born, daughters, Helen, a student at Ohio Wesleyan College, and Hazel, a student in the high school at London, this county. Professor and Mrs. Runyan are earnest members of the Presbyterian church at. London. the professor being a member of the session of that congregation, and both are warmly devoted to all good works in London and throughout the county, being held in the very. highest esteem by all. Professor Runyan is a Republican, and is a member of the popular order of the Knights of Pythias. He has a wide acquaintance among educators throughout the state and is very properly regarded as one of the leaders in his honored and useful profession, possessing the utmost confidence of all who know him. HERSCHEL L. McCAFFERTY. A record of sixteen years of faithful service in one, public office in a great commonwealth such as that embraced in Madison county certainly may be accepted as a proper warrant of fitness for the performance of the duties devolving upon the incumbent of such office. It is such a period of service as this that has given Herschel L. McCafferty. county surveyor of Madison county, not only the gratifying record above mentioned. and to which his friends refer with so much pride, but a prestige in county affairs second to none. Mr. Herschel McCafferty was literally "born to the business," his father having been a civil engineer of wide attainments. and his service in behalf of Madison county has been such that his friends may be very readily pardoned for expressing pride in his record. It is but proper, therefore, that there should be presented in this volume of history relating to the county in whose behalf he has performed such faithful service, a brief and modest resume of the life record of County Surveyor McCafferty. Herschel L. McCafferty was horn at Mt. Sterling. Madison county. Ohio, on January 15, 1871. son of Jason L. and Mary A. (Proctor) McCafferty, the former a native of Pickaway county, this state. and the latter, of Grant county, Kentucky. Jason L. McCafferty. a civil engineer and educator of parts, came to this county in 1869 and 484 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. located at Mt. Sterling, where he afterward became superintendent of schools of that pleasant village. Both he and his wife are still living, enjoying in the "sunset time of their lives the fullest confidence and respect of their hosts of friends, having done very well their parts in the community life of that fine neighborhood. To Jason L. and Mary A. McCafferty three children were born, of whom the subject of this sketch is now the only survivor, his sister, Lida, who was the wife. of Enoch Morris, and his brother, John H., both being deceased. Reared in an atmosphere of culture and refinement, amid ideal home conditions for the cultivation of his natural talents, Herschel L. McCafferty evinced unusual aptitude for his studies and upon completing the course in the excellent public schools of .Mt. Sterling, supplemented by his careful home training, he began teaching school and was thus engaged for three years, this form of useful publice service being performed in the schools of Pickaway county and of Madison county, one year in the former and two years in the latter. In the year 1892 Mr. McCafferty was elected county surveyor of Madison county, he having been well grounded in the technical details of civil engineering, as applicable to the public service, by his capable and painstaking father, and was re-elected, serving continuously in this important public capacity from January 2, 1893, until September, 1899, a period of nearly seven years. In 1904 he again was elected to take charge of this important branch of the public service, and entered into his old office in September, 1905, his four terms of office concluding in September, 1915. Faithful to the exacting duties of his office, Mr. McCafferty proved a most valuable public servant, his services ever having been rendered with an eye single to the good of the commonwealth, with the result that he has gained over and over the approbation of the people of I his county, who have every confidence in his ability and the exactness of his surveys. On May 16, 1899, Herschel L. McCafferty was united in marriage to Maud Malin. of Marysville, Ohio, daughter of W. C. Malin, a prominent resident of that place. Mr. and Mrs. McCafferty occupy a prominent position in the social life of London, the county seat, and are extremely popular among their friends. They are devoted to the general interests of the community, doing much, in their way, to advance the same in all proper directions, and are held in the highest esteem by all who know them. Mr. McCafferty is a Republican and for years has held a high place in the councils of that party in this county, his political associates having much confidence in his judgment and sagacity. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge at London, of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and of the Loyal Order of Moose, in all of which organizations he takes a warm interest. Public spirited and energetic, he is much interested in the general affairs of the county and is held in high regard in business circles hereabout, being regarded as one of the mainstays of the local commonwealth. CHARLES CHESELDINE. In his day and generation there were few men who exerted a wider or more wholesome influence in the commercial, financial and moral life of Madison county and of London, the county seat, than did the late Charles Cheseldine. for years one of London's leading merchants, and at the time of his death the president of the Madison National Bank, of London. Mr. Cheseldine was a good, clean man ; an enterprising and progressive merchant and a public-spirited citizen, who ever was found favoring such movements and measures as would tend to benefit mankind and his home community; helpful in all good works. His position in London as a merchant and as a banker gave him large prestige in commercial and financial circles in this part of the state, and he was very properly regarded as one of the most substantial citizens of the county, his business associates and the entire community reposing in him the utmost confidence, his long-tried integrity of character having commended him to MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 485 all. It is but fitting, therefore, that a brief resume of the life of this good man presented here, in this collection of the biographies of the prominent citizens of dison county, a task which the biographer essays with pleasure. Charles Cheseldine was a native of Clermont county, this state, born on April 10, 1863, who came to this county when a child with his father, Posey Cheseldine, who in 1873 established the well-known dry-goods establishment of that name in the city of London. Charles Cheseldine therefore was reared in London, receiving his education in the excellent public schools of that city. Upon completing his schooling in 1880, he immediately entered into the business with his father, later being made a partner in the firm, and after his father's death became sole proprietor, continuing the business with much success until the fall of 1907, when failing health compelled him to retire. His death occurred on Sunday, February 23, 1908, and was much mourned, for he was a good man, faithful and true in all the relations of life. Mr. Cheseldine was a farsighted and sagacious business man and was interested in several other enterprises besides his extensive dry-goods store, having been, at the time of his death, the president of the Madison National Bank, his influence in the affairs of that sound old financial institution undoubtedly having lent much to the solidity hich has made it such a power in financial circles hereabout. In the social, civic and religious life of the community, Charles Cheseldine was equally active and earnest and in his position on the London city school board was able to render a service to his home city which shall not soon be forgotten, for he was untiring in his efforts to advance the educational interests of the community, his influence ever being exerted in behalf of the right. On September 11, 1890, Charles Cheseldine was united in marriage to Minnie Min-shall. daughter of the late Wyatt Minshall, one of London's most prominent citizens, a biographical sketch of whom is presented elsewhere in this volume, and to this union two children were born, both sons, Raymond and Kenneth. Mr. Cheseldine was a member of the Methodist church, as is his widow, and was ever active in the various beneficences of that church, for years occupying the useful position of superintendent of the Sunday school, a labor of love to which he devoted himself unselfishly and ungrudgingly. Charles Cheseldine left many pleasant memories in and about London and his name will long be cherished in the county in which for years he was so active and so prominent a citizen. W. H. CHRISTOPHER, M. D. In the golden sayings of Epictetus there is no nobler utterance than this: "What wouldst thou be found doing when overtaken by Death? If I might chose, I would be found doing some deed of true humanity, of wide import, beneficent and noble. But if. I may not be found engaged in aught so lofty, let me hope at least for this—what none may hinder, what is surely in my power—that I may be found raising up in myself that which had fallen; learning to deal more wisely with the things of sense; working out my own tranquility, and thus rendering that which is due in every relation of life. * * * If death surprise me thus employed, it is enough if I can stretch forth my hands to God and say, 'The faculties which I received at Thy hands for apprehending this Thine administration, I have not neglected. As far as in me lay. I have done Thee no dishonor. Behold how I have used the senses, the primary conceptions which Thou gayest me. Have I ever laid anything to Thy charge? Have I ever murmured at aught that came to pass, or wished it otherwise? Have I in anything transgressed the relations of life? For that Thou didst beget me. I thank Thee for that Thou hast given : for the time during which I have used the things that were Thine, it suffices me. Take 486 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. them back and place them wherever Thou wilt ! They were all Thine, and Thou gayest them me.—If a man depart thus minded, is it not enough? What life is fairer or more noble, what end happier than his?" The above thoughts are recalled by a review of the life of the late Dr. William: Howard Christopher, whose passing on April 2, 1915, at his home in London, this county, proved a shock to the entire community, which had been confidently and expectantly awaiting his return, to the activities which had made him a beloved figure in London for twenty years. In the language of Epictetus, above quoted, Doctor Christopher, indeed, ever was found "doing some deed of true humanity, of wide import, beneficent and noble." He, truly, had rendered that which is due in every relation of life and had dealt wisely with the. things of sense, never neglectful of his God given faculties; and thus, had worked out his own tranquility, as far as in him lay, doing his maker no dishonor. Since coming to Madison county, in 1895, Doctor Christopher had been identified with every measure calculated to uplift the moral status of the community or to further its betterment along all lines of public improvement. The splendid new public school buildings at London are monuments to his particular care, as on them he had expended the thoughtful energies of the best years of his life. In all his comings in and goings out Doctor Christopher ever had been mindful of the best interests of the people. Wise in the administration of his public duties, skillful in the practice of his noble profession, devoted to his church and social obligations, this kindly physician and earnest public servant had done his part well and had ever commanded the respect and admiration of the entire community. The various activities of his busy and useful career had brought him into close touch with life on its many sides. His greatest passion was his profession and his untiring zeal for better things is now all the better appreciated because it is missed. His cheery smile, his hearty handshake and his willingness to do for others at a cost of much to himself endeared him to all who came in contact with him, and though his death left in the life of the community a place that cannot easily be filled, his life had made the world the better for having been touched by it. William Howard Christopher was born on a farm in Allen county on November 9. 1854, and his early life was spent on the farm, his elementary education being received in the township schools in the neighborhood of his home. He was an ambitious student and improved his opportunities so well that he presently secured a license to teach school, and for several years was thus engaged in Allen county. He early conceived the desire to become a physician, and to this end entered Michigan University at Ann Arbor and in 1875 was graduated from that university. He then resumed teaching for a time and later entered Starling Medical College. at Columbus, Ohio, from which institution he was graduated with high honors; finishing his studies in medical science with a post-graduate course at New York Polyclinic, in 1884. Upon completing his collegiate work, Doctor Christopher began the practice of medicine at Waynesville. Ohio, later moving to Van Wert, where he remained for a number of years, during which time he became associated with many public enterprises and proved his worth as a public-spirited citizen. During his residence in Van Wert an epidemic of smallpox devastated the city. Hundreds died and many fled from the city. Through it all, however, Doctor Christopher remained the calm, masterful man and physician that Madison county people later came to know and to love. In 1895 Doctor Christopher came to this county, locating in the county seat, where in a very short time his high worth as a man and as a physician was recognized. His interest Sp municipal matters led to many honors being conferred upon him by the people of London. He was elected to the school board in 1899. and, for fifteen years served faithfully and unselfishly on that important board. He was an active member MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 487 of the Madison County Medical Association, a thirty-second degree Mason, a member of the official board of the Methodist church, an enthusiastic member of the Twentieth Century Bible Class, a former president of the London Club, a member of the Ohio State Medical Society and of the American Medical Association and a delegate to the auxiliary committee of the State Medical Society on public policy and legislation. In 1879, on the day of his graduation from Starling Medical College, Dr. W. H. Christopher was united in marriage to Nancy Evelyn. Patrick. of Bellefontaine, this state. who, with the only child of this union, Dr. H. V. Christopher, survives. Mrs. Asa Shadley. of Ada. Ohio, and Miss Jennie Christopher, of London. are sisters of the deceased. ELISHA S. GORDIN. Elisha S. Gordin's business activities have been marked by steady progress, due to his splendid executive ability, which, in building up his own fortune, has also increased the commercial prestige of the town in which lie has lived and has been favorably known for many years. Mr. Gordin is an alert and capable business man. a conscientious public official. and a public-spirited citizen. As former sheriff, county treasurer, and member of the school board, as well as president of the People's Commercial and Savings Bank. of London, this county, Mr. Gordin has had a share in the making of local history for a number of years. Born in Bethel township. Clark county, Ohio, on November 30, 1853, Elisha S. Gordin is a native of the state in which his father, Frederick Gordin, also was born. His mother, who. before her marriage, was Hulda Barrett, was born in New Jersey and lived there until her sixth year. Frederick Gordin was a farmer, and in 1859 removed from his early home to Stokes township. this county, where he spent the remainder of his life, becoming eminently successful from the financial viewpoint. He was a Republican in politics, and a devout member of the Baptist church. He died on November 6, 1897. His wife had passed away on December 31. of the preceding year. Of the eight children born to Frederick and Hulda (Barrett) Gordin, only four are now living, namely: R. B. Gordin, of Springfield, Ohio; Mrs. Malissa Olin, of Muncie. Indiana ; Mrs. Amanda Brock, of Stokes township, and Elisha S. Gordin, the subject of the present biography. E. S. Gordin was born on a farm and was educated in the local common schools, having had the privilege also of one year of schooling in Clark county before his parents moved to Madison county. At first, following the line of least resistance, he joined his father in the farming and live stock business, and then engaged in business for himself until 1898. The preceding year, having interested himself in local politics, he was elected sheriff of Madison county and entered upon that office in 1898,. serving for two terms, or four years. At the expiration of his official term, he went to England, in quest of a prisoner, and while abroad spent five days in Paris. On his return he formed a business partnership with M. L. Bunham, in the livery and horse business, which partnership continued six years. But Mr. Gordin could not be content. with merely a commercial life, and again be was elected to public office, becoming county treasurer of Madison county in 1906. He held that office for five years—two elective terms and one year appointive, on account of a change of the law. His next undertaking was in the mercantile and grain business at London, in which business he engaged in 1910 as a partner of V. E. Jordan. which partnership' still continues. That same year witnessed the completion of the organization of the People's Commercial and 'Savings Rank, of London, and Mr. Gordin was made the first president of the bank, a position he has retained up to the present time. On March 28. 1872, Elisha S. Gordin was united in marriage to Caroline Frances 488 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. Thomas, daughter of O. W. Thomas, of Stokes township, to which union two children have been born, Louie Belle, wife of Harry Howard. of Port William, this county, and Fred Pearl Gordin, of Port William. Mr. Gordin's life has been a very active one. Besides his personal activities as a business man, he has taken time to serve as a member of the Stokes township school board for sixteen years and has served in the same capacity in London. Added to local business enterprises, he has large landed interests in South Georgia, and is a director of the Farmers' and Traders' Bank, of South Solon, this county. His political influence, which has been considerable, has been cast on the side of Republicanism. Mr. Gordin is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge in South Solon, to which place his business takes him frequently, and is an attendant on the services of the Presbyterian church in London, and is president of the business men's bible class of the Sunday school of that church, to this cause giving much time and earnest thought. Because of his sterling worth as a man of character. his kindliness and consideration, and his genial disposition, he has won the warm regard of his many associates. CHESTER EDWIN BRYAN. Chester Edwin Bryan, editor and publisher of the Semi-Weekly Madison County Democrat (published by father and sons for fifty-eight consecutive years), was born on the 29th day of October. 1850, at. London, Ohio. His father, Marcellus Leroy Bryan, was a native of Batavia, Clermont county, Ohio, while his mother, Martha Sidney Materson. was born in Castlebar, County Mayo, Ireland, and came to America with her parents, an infant in arms. Prof. Ormond Masterson, Mr. Bryan's grandfather, taught languages at Trinity University, Dublin, and came to America in 1831, settling at Columbus. Ohio, where he established the first private school in that young city. Professor Masterson, during the summer vacations, engaged in surveying and assisted in establishing the line for the National road through central Ohio. Marcellus L. Bryan was editor and founder of the Madison County Democrat, which paper he published from its establishment in 1857 until 1898, and the history of which is given elsewhere in this work. He died on May 26. 1902, and was succeeded by his sons, Chester E. and Ormond M. The latter died on September 7, 1908, and his interest in the business was purchased by Chester E., who has since controlled it. Marcellus L. Bryan was born in Batavia, Ohio, March 23, 1829, and was a representative of one of the oldest families in the state. His grandfather, David Chester Bryan, was born on Long Island in 1771, was united in marriage to Ruth Bryan in 1792, and came to Ohio before the opening of the nineteenth century. He died in Batavia, July 31. 1829. He was a prominent man in the early history of southern Ohio, and laid off the village of Williamsburg, Clermont county, afterwards, in 1825, removing to Batavia, which town he platted and named. In 1806 he was elected a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, but his seat was contested and given to Thomas Morris, who afterward became United States senator. Mr. Bryan was subsequently chosen member of the House, 1806-1807, and served as state senator, 1807-1811. Marcellus Bryan's father was also named David Chester Bryan, and on July 14, 1828, he was married to Mary Melvin Moore, a daughter of Capt. Charles Moore, who was a sergeant in the Revolutionary War gild an officer in the War of 1812. He was one of the earliest settlers in Clermont county, having come from Philadelphia, and bought a large tract of land near Batavia, on which he erected a flouring-mill and a distillery. David C. Bryan, Jr., was a man of prominence in the community in which he lived, and for some years he was the leading merchant of Batavia. He served as auditor of Clermont county and died there in 1859. Marcellus L. Bryan left five other children besides Chester E., Mrs. James Livensperger, Charles Moore Bryan, Mrs. Mattie Tenny Bryan, MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 489 wife of Walter Bryan, and Martell Bryan, all of London, and Addison Watson Bryan, of Marion. Chester Edwin Bryan, present editor and publisher of the Democrat, and who was named after both his grandfather and his great-grandfather, was educated in the London public schools. being a member of the class graduated in 1878. His life work, up to this time. has been spent. in conducting the newspaper which he so loves. He is well known by. newspaper publishers throughout the state, having been honored as president of the Ohio Editorial Association, the Hocking and Ohio Valley Editorial Association, and the Buckeye Press Association, the latter of which he was instrumental in farming by merging the other two organizations while serving as their presiding officer. For ten years he was a member of the executive committee for Ohio of the National Editorial Association and was elected a life member of that organization. In politics, Mr. Bryan has always been a stanch Democrat. He has served as chairman of the Madison county Democratic committee for a number of years and also 'as a member of the Democratic state committee. In 1902 he was a candidate for Congress from the seventh Ohio district. In 1900 and again in 1904 he was a candidate for presidential elector on the Democratic ticket. He was appointed president of the board of trustees. of the State Institution for the Deaf. by Governor Judson Harmon, a position which he held until the boards of all Ohio state institutions were abolished by the passage of an act in 1910, placing their control under the state board of administrations. Mr. Bryan was largely instrumental, during Governor James M. Cox's administration, in securing the location of the Ohio penitentiary farm at London. With but two exceptions, he has attended all the Democratic national conventions which have been held since he reached his majority. He served as alternate delegate at the Kansas convention in .1901, also in a similar capacity at the Baltimore convention in 1918 when President Woodrow Wilson was nominated. He was president at the Democratic convention in Chicago in 1890 and heard William Jennings Bryan's famous "Cross of Gold" speech, which he considers the greatest oratorical feat of all times. He has served as a trustee of the Carnegie library board of London for the past six years and is now president of the London Board of Trade. Mr. Bryan was married. February 25, 1880. to Maria Daley. of Monroe township. To this union four daughters were born: Hazel, wife of Warren A. Stevens, of Columbus; Beulah Marie. deceased, wife of Godfrey Strauss. of Cincinnati ; Uarda. wife of Harold Robertson, of Fulton, New York, and Naomi, at home WILLIAM D. WILLIAMS, M. D. Who can estimate properly or convincingly the influence for good upon the life of a community wielded by the conscientious physician? What record. save that of the great Recording Angel, ever Will contain a complete transcript of the unselfish labors of the healer who goes about his business in behalf of ailing humanity. all uncomplainingly, patiently. devotedly and sincerely giving himself, the strength of his hand. of his mind and of his heart, to all who call for such relief of bodily suffering as may be therapeutically possible? A mere historical and biographical work of this character is highly informative and instructive, and to future generations of this county this volume will be held as a priceless heritage of the past. but there is very much the future generations ought to know of the doings of their forbears that cannot be put down in cold letters and figures on a printed page. Among these phases of communal life that only can be recorded in the hearts of men here below, that relating to the unselfish labors of the devoted physician properly may be considered as of paramount importance. While no attempt will be made to convey a further message of sentiment in that connection on this page. It is but proper that, in a work of this nature, something of the life's record 490 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO of the late lamented, former well-known and popular physician whose name forms the caption for this sketch, shall be here presented for the information of those generations yet to come who will want to know all that is obtainable of the history of the devoted men and women who wrought, giving the best that was in them, in order that richer material blessings than they had ever known might descend upon those who were to follow. The late William D. Williams. M. D., in his day one of the best-known and most substantial citizens of Madison county, and at the time of his death the oldest resident physician of London. was born in Granville, Licking county, Ohio, on July 1b, 1836, and died at his home in London, this county, on March 22, 1906. Doctor Williams was a good man and an exemplary citizen, and when the word was passed along in this county that the scenes in which he so long had played an active part would know him no more, there was general and sincere mourning hereabout, for he was held in the highest regard throughout this whole community, as there were few who had not, at one time or another, come under the kindly influence of his gentle ministrations. A physician in the truest sense of the word, whose sympathetic interest in the welfare of those committed to his professional care was one of the great secrets of his remarkable professional success. Doctor Williams had endeared himself, throughout years of ceaseless endeavor, to the entire community and the general grief expressed at his passing was heartfelt. The professional career of Dr: William D. Williams was begun in London, this county, in the year 1864, when, a newly-diplomaed doctor, fresh from the scenes of his graduation from a Homeopathic college at Cleveland, Ohio, he came to this county and entered upon the practice of his chosen profession. From that time forward, until a few years before his- death. Doctor Williams devoted his best talents and his utmost endeavors to the welfare of the community which he had selected as the scene of his life's labors, and in the proper fulness of time became known as one of the ablest physicians and most public-spirited citizens of this section of the state. There were few movements of large public import hereabout which were not given further impetus by the fostering influence of his intelligent attention and by such unselfish and ungrudging personal service as this he became known as one of the largest personal factors in the development of this region. As a very fitting and proper reward for his painstaking and conscientious professional services, Doctor Williams was enabled to prosper in a material way and. being a far-seeing and prudent investor, acquired large landed and other interests in Madison county, being accounted, at the time of his death. one of the county's most substantial citizens. He was faithful in his practice. as he was in all the relations of life, and continued his professional service in the community up to a few years .of the time of his death, his later years having been spent in practical retirement from the cares of a long and busy practice. An intelligent and diligent reader of the world's best literature. Doctor Williams was a cultured and broad-minded gentleman and had traveled extensively, having made several comprehensive tours in both hemis pheres. He was a devoted member of the Presbyterian church and ever displayed a hearty interest in all good works. being a leader in many of the best movements ever designed to advance the common weal in this county. Madison county has had few, if any, more popular citizens than was Doctor Williams. and he enjoyed the highest esteem of all. In 1866, Dr. William D. Williams was united in marriage to Delia Chrisman, to which union there was born but one child, a son, Lee H. Williams, now and for many years past prominently connected with the Central National Bank, of London, this county. Mrs. Williams died in September, 1902, a little more than three. years before the death of her husband, and she also was widely mourned, for she was a good woman, for MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 491 many years having been devoted to all that was best in the community, a very earnest and influential factor in the social and religious life of the county seat. Doctor and Mrs. Williams left many very pleasant memories, and it is but fitting that their names should be held in remembrance in this volume of history relating to the county in which they had so long and so earnestly labored. a respectful tribute to their worth and a proper recognition of the value of their services to the community. JAMES F. BELL. Engaged in the practice of law for many years in London, the county seat of this county, of which-town he was at one time mayor, James F. Bell is not only a prominent lawyer, but has identified himself with so many of the important organizations of the community that the influence of his strong personality has been widely felt. He is a man of excellent scholarship and legal training. James F. Bell was born on a farm in Oak Run township, this county, on January 12. 1872, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Amos) Bell. The family for several generations back were prominent in the agricultural industry, and took pride in their work. as is exemplified. by the remark once made by William Bell, great-grandfather of James F. Bell, who boasted of 'tending ten acres of corn when he was ninety years old. James D. Bell, grandfather of James F., was also a farmer, as well as a school teacher of Ross county, of which county he was a pioneer settler, having located there with his father. James D. Bell married Elizabeth Dewey, and to that union were born seven children, of whom but two are now living. Benjamin, who lives in Columbus, Ohio. and Ann. the wife of Leven Trout. of Terre Haute, Indiana, those now deceased having been William, Jane, Joseph, George and James. Joseph Bell the father of James F., was born in Fairfield township. this county, April 21, 1831, in the neighborhood where he passed his entire life. He was only eleven years old when both of his parents died, and after that he lived with an uncle and learned the business of farming and stock raising. Elizabeth Amos, his wife, lived in this county, and it was here that they met and married, the marriage ceremony taking place on September 23. 1852. He and his brother, William married the only two daughters of Robert C. Amos. a pioneer of the county. who came here from Maryland. Joseph Bell became a successful farmer, although he lived a plain, quiet life. He died on June 11, 1907. Benjamin and Margaret (Conn) Amos were the parents of Robert' C. Amos. The paternal great-grandparents of James F. Bell were William and Sins (Wilson) Bell. The maternal grandmother of James F. Bell was Mary Wilson, the daughter of Richard and Elizabeth (Rea) Wilson, the latter of whom was the daughter of Joseph and Betsie (Conn) Rea. To Robert C. and Mary (Wilson) Amos. the maternal grandparents of Mr. Bell, were born five children. as follow: Margaret. who became the wife of William Bell; Elizabeth, the mother of James F. Bell; and three sons. John, Robert and William, all three of whom died in childhood: The mother of these children died when the girls were of a tender age, and the father. Robert C. Amos, later married Hannah Rush. of Baltimore. Maryland. who conferred the greatest of motherly attention on the children who were entrusted to her care. She died in 1886. There were no children by the second marriage. The mother of Mr. Bell was born on January 18. 1833, and died on May 2, 1900. To Joseph and Elizabeth (Amos) Bell were born eight children, as follow: Wesley H., born on September 18, 1853. who died on October 2, 1860; Mary E. July 9.1856. wife of R. N. Mowry, who left at her death. on October 4. 1885. a son, Joseph B. who died On April 19. 1893 ;. Emma: J. May 31, 1859. who died on March 22, 1866: Eva A. September 28. 1861, who married A. L. Fitzgerald. of Wester- 492 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. ville, Ohio, and is the mother of a married son, Fred ; Minnie F., February 25, 1864, who married William Edmund Taylor and until recently lived on the home farm in Oak Run township, this county, with her husband and three children, Robert, Ollie and Fay, but now resides on a farm near Plainview, Texas ; Sallie M., August 30, 1866, who died an May 2, 1876; James F., the subject of this biographical sketch, and Lee A., October 24, 1875, of Columbus, Ohio, who married Belle W. Alkire, and has one Son, Joseph Maxwell. Until his fifteenth year, James F. Bell attended the district schools and then assisted his father on the farm, in the meantime continuing his studies during the winter months until he was nineteen. It would seem that from early boyhood this lad had dreams of the future, for before his school days were finished, he was preparing to teach, and at the age of nineteen, having procured a teacher's certificate, he began teaching in the same school which he had attended as a pupil. The following eight years he spent in teaching and in attendance at college, thus preparing the foundation for his later career. He taught at intervals in his old home school during eight years, and never had to apply for the school but once. Following his graduation from the College of Law, Ohio State University. with the class of 1899, on June 7, of the same year, he was admitted to the bar by the supreme court of Ohio, and in December 1902, was admitted to practice in the United States courts. Mr. Bell's marriage to Rowena Moore, of Columbus, Ohio, formerly of Batavia, took place on June 27, of the year of his graduation from college; his wife being the daughter of W. B. and Mariamna Moore. Mrs. Bell was born on March 11, 1880. To Mr. and Mrs. Bell have been born four children, as follow : Martha Frances, born on October 26, 1902 ; Virginia, March 7, 1905 ; Joe Amos, September 12, 1911, who died on December 9, 1913, and James Finley. Jr., January 12, 1915, his father's birthday. Mr. Bell located in London in the spring of 1900, and at once began the practice of law, his office being in the Union Block, opposite the court house. Mr. Bell applied himself assiduously to the practice of his profession and soon became recognized as one of the ablest young attorneys of the community. He had been before the public before entering on his profession, his first public office having been that of clerk of Oak Run township, this county. Mr. Bell has always been allied with the Democratic party, and it is a singular and splendid testimonial of his character that his election to all public offices which he has held has been as the candidate of a minority party, his success being largely attributable to his eminent qualifications and personal popularity. During the years 1908 and 1909 he was mayor of London, and in 1911 and 1912 was the prosecuting attorney of Madison county. He was his party's nominee for judge of the common pleas court in 1914, but was defeated by a slight plurality. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bell have taken a prominent part in the life of the church of which they are members, the First Presbyterian church of London, the church in Which the former's grandfather, Robert C. Amos, was, in his day, one of the ruling elders. Mr. Bell is now an elder, and was formerly a trustee. He is keenly interested in the work of the Sunday school, in which he has been the teacher of a Bible class for many years. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Bell, 166 Washington avenue, which is a modern one, having been erected in 1913 is frequently opened for the social functions of the church, as well as for the reception of their friends. and many thus enjoy the hospitality of this amiable couple. Mr. Bell is the owner of three-quarters of the home farm and other valuable land near by and is regarded as one of London's most substantial citizens. Besides his affiliations of a professional nature, Mr. Bell is a member of Madison Lodge No. 70, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a past grand and past district deputy of that lodge. He is a member of the influential London Club and of the London Board of. Trade. Brief as has been the present record, it may serve to indicate the fact that its MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 493 object has received no inconsiderable part of the respect and honor which every community bestows upon the men who serve it with honesty and fidelity. He has been true to every public trust, conscientious in the discharge of his duties, whether of a public or private nature, and true to his ideals. OMER E. JONES. In a biographical sketch presented elsewhere in this volume, relating to the life and, the public services of the late Hon. William M. Jones, of London, this county, there is, set out at some length the history of this well-known family in Madison county. It will, not be necessary, therefore, in this connection to review the genealogy of the gentleman, whose name is noted at the head of this brief biography, the reader being respectfully referred to the sketch above mentioned for further essential details. Omer E. Jones, a worthy son of his distinguished and lamented father, is doing well his part in the life of this community and it is but fitting that there should be set out here some brief and modest mention of his active career. Having been a resident of the city of London. county seat of Madison county, since he was three years of age, Mr. Jones has been a most interested witness of the later development of that thriving little city, and properly enough may be said that he has been a no small factor in that development. Identified with the banking interests of the city since he was twenty years old, Mr. Jones has acquired an acquaintance with the business interests of the county which gives to his service in the bank with which he is connected. as well as to the community at large, a special value, and it is not too much to say that he is regarded as one of the leaders among the younger set of enterprising business men who have done so much in recent years to bring about better conditions hereabout. Omer E. Jones, teller of the London Exchange Bank. of London, this county, was born on a farm in Fayette county, Ohio, on September 4, 1879. son of the late Hon. William M. and Lucy A. (Pancoast) Jones, proper mention of whom is made elsewhere in this volume. Being but three years of age at the time his parents moved to London, in 1882. Mr. Jones has spent practically his whole life in that city. Receiving his early education in the excellent public schools of London. he entered Duffs Mercantile College, a high-grade commercial school at Pittsburgh. Pennsylvania. and was graduated from that institution. Upon receiving his diploma. Mr. Jones returned home and at once entered upon his business career as a bookkeeper in the London Exchange Bank. with which his late father at that time was prominently connected. That was on September 1. 1899. and Mr. Jones ever since then has been Connected with this, bank. He rapidly rose to the position of teller in the bank, which position he now is holding, much to the satisfaction of the customers of the bank, with whom, it is not improper to say, he is exceedingly popular, as he is with his business and personal associates generally throughout the county. In addition to his connection with the above bank, he also is secretary of the Citizens' Loan and Savings Company, of London. On November 2. 1004. Omer E. Jones was united in marriage to Carrie W. Warrington. of South Charleston. Ohio. daughter .of William 0. Warrington. a prominent citizen of that place. and to this union one child has been born. a daughter, Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are members of the Methodist church and are earnestly interested in the various good works of the community. They are prominently identified with the social life of the town. and their many friends are pleased to regard them as among the leaders in London's pleasant social activities. Mr. Jones is a Republican, as was his honored father before him, and takes a good citizen's interest in the political affairs of the county. though never having been included in the office-seeking class. He is a Mason of high degree, being a member of 494 -MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. the chapter and. of the council of that ancient order in London, as well as a Knight Templar and a member of the Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, being affiliated with Aladdin Temple of the latter order at Columbus. He also is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge at Loudon and is treasurer of the three Masonic bodies at London. In addition to his banking interests, Mr. Jones owns a fine farm in Oak Hun township, this county, to which he gives considerable personal attention, he being much interested in the wonderful developments recently made in the science of agriculture. Enterprising, energetic and public spirited, Mr. Jones is performing admirably his part in the complex life of his home city and very properly enjoys the ntmost confidence and the high regard of all With whom he comes in contact. XERXES FARRAR. Each generation necessarily builds upon the foundation laid by preceding generations. According to the firmness of the foundation, the superstructure will be substantial or not. The future, of course, must be the judge of what character of foundation has been laid for the social, moral, civic, commercial and financial edifice being erected by the citizens of Madison county. However, from what the present historian notes of the high character, the determination of purpose and the exalted standards of conduct maintained by the leaders of thought and action in this part of the state, in their work of carrying on the labors of those who wrought so wisely and securely in the past, it hardly may be doubted that the superstructure of the coming civilization of this region will be all that the present generation may hope for those who shall come after. It is partly the purpose of this volume to preserve for the future some account of the lives and the labors of those who now are doing so well their part in bearing aloft the torch of civilization in this region, and it therefore is fitting and proper that brief biographies be here presented of those who are leaders in this noble work. As such a purpose would be but incompletely carried out without the introduction of the gentleman whose name forms the caption of this modest sketch, it is a pleasure for the biographer here to present for the consideration of the future historian a brief resume of the life history of Xerxes Farrar, cashier and practical head of the Central National Bank. of London. this county. Xerxes Farrar, son of John and Sarah (Holway) Farrar is a native of Madison county. as was his father before him, the Farrars for several generations having been prominently identified with the best interests of this county. in the affairs of which they have ever taken a conspicuous and prominent part; the influence of this family having been exerted for good almost since the days of the beginning of the social order herea bout. John Farrar was born on the old Farrar homestead on the Mt. Sterling pike, seven mil& south of London. in Madison county. Ohio. and in his day was one of Madison county's most useful citizens. He was the leading figure in the organization of the Central National Bank, and was connected with it as president until his death in 187s. He was a stockman and farmer of prominence in his day and lived in London and in this county all his life. John Farrar was united in marriage to Sarah Holway, a native of England, who came to this country with her parents when she was about eighteen years of age, and to this union eight children were born, six of whom are living, as follow : Josephine Hortense wife of Fred Webster, now deceased, who was a well-known attorney of Oberlin, this state:. Kate, wife of H. C. Wilson, of this county; Dr. William Farrar. of Pittsburgh. Pennsylvania ; Dr. Kilby Farrar, veterinary surgeon, of London, this county; Dr. H. D. Farrar. of Columbus, Ohio. and Xerxes, the immediate subject of this biographical review. MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 495 Xerxes Farrar has been identified with the Central National Bank of London for more than a quarter of a century. His father and his uncle, William Farrar, having been leaders among the organizers of this sound old financial institution, Xerxes, when a young man, became associated with the interests of the bank and has continued in active connection with the same ever since that time, for years having occupied the important position of cashier, a position which, in this case, carries with it practically the duties of general manager, giving Mr. Farrar a very high station in financial circles in this section of the state. Mr. Farrar is a man of much strength of character, of great mental and physical vigor, and is generally recognized as one of the dominant forces in the community in which for so long he has worked unceasingly for the common good. Loyal and devoted to his friends, he has an extraordinary personal following and is held in the very highest regard by all who know him. In financial questions his voice carries great weight throughout this part of the state, bankers and merchants generally recognizing and admitting the soundness of his judgment .and the accuracy of his analysis in matters affecting the financial situation hereabout. On February 14, 1888, Xerxes Farrar was united in marriage to Jennie Hubbard, who was born in the city of London, in this county, daughter of the late S. J. Hubbard, a prominent banker and influential citizen of London, and to this union two children have been born John Farrar, of Columbus, this state and Margaret. Mr. and Mrs. Farrar take part in all good works in their community, their strong personal influence ever being cast in favor of all movements designed to elevate standards of living hereabout. Mr. Farrar is a thirty-second degree Mason and is a member of Aladdin Temple, Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine at Columbus. No man in the county possesses in a higher degree the confidence and esteem of his business associates than does he and he is regarded as one of the dominant forces in the community. LEE H. WILLIAMS. On another page of this volume there is presented a very proper tribute to the memory of the late Dr. William D. Williams, who for years was one of the best-known men in Madison county and who, at the time of his death, was the oldest resident, physician of London, the county seat. Though the good Doctor Williams long since has gone from the scenes which once knew him so well, his name, as well as the good memory he left in this county, survives, and in the third generation offers a very fit representative of this sturdy stock. Lee H. Williams. one of London's best-known and most influential citizens, the only son of the late Doctor Williams, has a son. William I).. who bears his worthy grandfather's name most worthily, cherishing it as a priceless legacy. Lee H. Williams, only son of the late Dr. William D. and Delilah (Chrisman) Williams. the former of whom died on March 22, 1906. and the latter of whom died in September. 1902, was born in the city of London, Madison county, Ohio, on November 23. 1870, and has lived all his life in the city of his birth. L. H. Williams received his early education in the excellent public schools of London. and upon completing the course there prescribed was given .a supplementary and finishing course in a private school in New York City, following which he returned home and shortly thereafter entered the service of the Central National Bank, of London, with which sound. old financial institution he has been connected most of the time since he was twenty years of age, and of which he now is one of the directors. In addition to his banking interests. Mr. Williams has extensive farming and other interests in London and Madison county and gives his personal attention to the operation of his fine farm south. of London. On June 24, 1895, Lee H. Williams was united in marriage to Mary Watson, 496 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. daughter of David Watson, of Paint township, this county, and to this union three children have been born, Constance, William D. and Robert C. Mr. and Mrs. Williams are persons of broad culture and fine taste, and their home is one of the pleasantest ;Ind most hospitable in London: They take a deep interest in all measures looking to the advancement of the community's best interests and enjoy the sincerest esteem of very wide circle of friends. Mr. Williams is deeply concerned in the developmen this section of the state along all proper lines,. and very properly is regarded as on the most substantial and influential men in Madison county, being looked upon as of the strongest personal factors in the community life hereabout. JOHN R. TANNER. John R. Tanner, one of the leading members of the London bar, has spent ma years in the service of Madison county, during eight of which he was probate jud Fortunate in having had the educational opportunities to prepare him. for a life more than usual service, as well as prominence, he early learned that "knowledge power," and, therefore, allowed nothing to interfere with its acquisition. Ilk la years, which have been conspicuous for achievement, both in legal practice and Pub life, have proved his early wisdom,, and have rewarded him for the labor then expended in faith. The subject of this biography was born on a farm near Mt. Sterling. t county, the date of his birth being October 2, 1874. The parents of Mr. Tanner were Courtney and Esther (McDowell) Tanner. t former, a native of this county and the latter of Pickaway county, Ohio. Count Tanner, who was a farmer, was born in 1835, and moved to Pickaway county about 1875. He served with distinction as county commissioner and later returned to farm after having lived in Circleville during the time he was in official life. To the worthy people, were born three children; the subject of this sketch and two daughters who died in infancy. Their mother lived until the year 1879. Their father married again, having by his second wife, three children, Clarence B. Tanner, of Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Ella Loofburrow, of Columbus. and Mrs. Alwilda Strader, of Los Angel California. Courtney Tanner died on his farm on June 11, 1907. John R. Tanner was reared on his father's farm ; attending the district schools and prepared himself by arduous study for his later collegiate training. which he acquired at the Ohio State University, from which institution he received t he degree of Bachelor of Laws in 1900. Admitted to the bar in December of the same year he began the practice which later became one of the most extensive in the state. Previous to this, however, he had had four years' experience in the banking business at the Citizens Bank, of which he was assistant cashier, and also at the Second National Bank of Circleville, in which he served in a clerical capacity. Beginning the practice of law at Mt. Sterling, he lived there until 1000, in which year he moved to London, the county seat, as he had been elected probate judge the previous year on the Republican ticket. He was re-elected in 1908 and his service as judge did not expire until February, 1913. Upon the expiration of his official tenure, he opened a law office in London and has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession ever shop. Judge Tanner has never quite lost his love for the country and he still owns a large farm in Madison and Pickaway counties, the same being on the county line near Mt. Sterling. On February 21. 1895, John R. Tanner was married to Alice Ingrim. of Mt. Sterling, daughter of John W. Ingrim, to which union three children have been born. Esther Margaret, who is attending the Western College for Women at Oxford, Ohio and two sons, John Robert and Charles C., both of whom are in the London public schools. Judge Tanner is noted for his patriotism. He served in, the Ohio National Guard as first lieutenant of Company L, Fourteenth Regiment, from 1895 to 1898. inclusive, MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 497 It is evident that Judge Tanner believes in the effectiveness of organization, for besides being a member of the Presbyterian church and a member of the Republican party, he is a member of the Masonic, the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows lodges, having attained to the shrine in the Masonic order, by way of the commandery. To the student of human life, membership in the above organizations alone would attest the mental caliber and sterling character of such a man as the biographer here has attempted to portray. Although successful in material affairs, this distinguished gentleman has not limited his time nor his intention to the acquisition of wealth. He saw life whole and he saw life well, and with the vision of the mountain top, descended into the plain to carry out in daily life the revelation. It is a significant fact that at the time of his election to the bench Judge Tanner was the youngest man ever elected to the position of probate judge in the state of Ohio. MAJOR JAMES M. DUNGAN. Among his friends who have investigated the matter it is maintained that Major Dungan, of London, county seat of Madison county, is the oldest native-born son of that city now living there; at least this claim on the part of the major's old friends has not been conclusively disputed in any quarter. Not only does Major Dungan modestly bear this local distinction, but he bears the far more prideful distinction of having been the first young man. in London to enroll his name in the service of the Union upon President Lincoln's first call for troops on that amazing day in April, 1861, when the people of this country awoke to the stern fact that the nation actually was facing a state of war. It is not too much to say that no man in Madison county has a wider acquaintance than Major James M. Dungan or is held in higher esteem by the community at large. With the exception of ten years, when he was engaged in business at Lima, this state, Major Dungan has spent his entire life in this county and in all that time has been so scrupulously observant of the finer amenities of social and commercial intercourse, that he has endeared himself to the community as few men here have ever done; enjoying in the genial sunset time of his life the highest confidence and the utmost respect of his very wide circle of friends, who delight in applying to him that choicest. of human titles, "a perfect gentleman." Now living in his seventy-fifth year, the son of a native son of Madison county, Major Dungan has witnessed the development of his home county from pioneer conditions to its present high state of social, moral and material Progress, and possesses a fund of reminiscences of the earlier days hereabout that makes him a most entertaining and engaging companion in an hour of ease and leisure. James M: Dungan was born in London. this county, on June 13. 1841, son. of John and Susan (Blue) Dungan, the former of whom was born in this county on August 6, 1814, and the latter, near Chillicothe, Ohio, on February 8. 1818. John Dungan. son of one of the earliest settlers of Madison county, for many years was one of the leading merchants of London being engaged in the hardware business. He and his wife were earnest Members of the Methodist church and their children were reared in that faith. There were ten of these children, four of whom are still living, namely : James M., the immediate Subject of this sketch; Martin W., of London, this county; Mrs. Bettie D. Davis, who also lives in London and Mrs. Elizabeth Bebee, of Detroit, Michigan. As a boy, James M. Dungan depended upon his own resources for a living from the time he was twelve years of age, 'working at the printing and tinner. trades, but at the age of seventeen, recognizing the need of further education, entered the old academy and was a close student up to the time of the breaking out of the Civil War. On that memorable morning, April 15; 1861, when the news was :flashed over the country (32) 498 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. that President Lincoln had issued a call for seventy-five thousand volunteer soldi to aid in overthrowing the confederacy of seceding Southern states, James M. Dung and a schoolmate, William Fickey, unfurled the flag on the old academy building an then young Dungan straightway enrolled himself as a volunteer in defense of cause of the Union, being thus the first young man in London so to declare himself It was nine o'clock in the morning when James M. Dungan signed the roll of recruits and at noon of that day, while the family were sitting at dinner, his father object strenuously to his going to war, basing this objection upon the lad's age, he then, lacking three months of being twenty years of age; this, at that stage of the war, being regarded as entirely too young for such service. The youthful recruit thought differently, however, and strongly expressed his determination to go, "skipping out" that afternoon for Springfield, this state. On his arrival there he found that the two companies being recruited in that city had been filled. Undaunted, however, by this failure to find a place under arms in his nation's service, he boarded the first train leaving for Columbus and succeeded in that city in getting a place in the ranks of an old military organization, known as the "Columbus Videttes," under Capt. Henry B. Thrall. This company was fully organized and was ordered East at once, leaving Columbus on the afternoon of April 18, reporting to Suffolk Park, Philadelphia, where for several weeks it was drilled with the Second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. From Suffolk Park this regiment was ordered to Washington City, thence to eastern Virginia, where, at Camp Upton, it was placed in the brigade of Gen. Robert Schenck, of Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Dungan served in this regiment until after the first battle of Bull Run, when he was mustered out, his term of service having expired. He at once returned to London and, in connection with Capt. James Watson, recruited Company D, Fortieth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, going out as a lieutenant in this company. After eighteen months of service in this command, Lieutenant Dungan resigned, on account of a falling out with the colonel commanding, but straightway returned to the service, for the third time, as a sergeant in Company I, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which regiment he saw much active service until it was mustered out in 1864. Upon returning from the service, Mr. Dungan was given a partnership in the hardware business of his father, John Dungan, and continued in this business in London until January, 1880, at which time he moved to Lima, this state, where for ten years he was engaged in the same form of mercantile business. His health failing, on account of overwork and rheumatic affliction, he sold his store in 1890 and for several years sought relief from his affliction by spending the winters in the South. Southwest and in California. Returning to London about ten years ago, Mr. Dungan entered the insurance business, locally representing several high-class companies, and has since then been thus engaged, also doing a considerable business as fiduciary in the matter of rentals and other property matters of a local character. On January 8, 1863, James M. Dungan was united in marriage at Catlettsburg, Kentucky, to Sarah C. Peteet, of that city, and to this union five children were born, Flora K., J. Frazier, LePaul, Jesse U. and James W. All these children save J. Frazier, who died at the age of three and one-half years, have been living at Oakland, California, for the past twelve or fifteen years. Mrs. Dungan passed away at Lima, Ohio, on March 9, 1886. Though now in his seventy-fifth year, Major Dungan continues to take an active interest in local affairs and no man in London is more deeply concerned in the progress of the county seat than he. As a veteran of the Civil War he has taken a warm interest in the affairs of the Grand Army of the Republic in this state and for eight years has been quartermaster of Lyon Post No. 121, of London. For several years MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 499 he has been secretary of the Kirkwood Cemetery Association. Major Dungan is held in the highest respect throughout this whole section of the state and commands the full confidence of all who know him. CHARLES B. ANDERSON. How dependent a community is upon its internal commerce ! How helpless we should be without the wonderful medium of exchange which has been evolved by man out of the wonderful experiences of the ages for the convenient merging of the interdependent relations of supply and demand ! A local community is well judged by the condition of its commercial establishments and it may properly be taken for granted that all is well with that town whose business houses are well ordered, well equipped and well managed, conducted with a view to the best and most helpful accommodation of the patrons of the same. The merchants of a city well may be considered its ablest conservators; for upon them so much depends in the way of keeping the "tone" of the city up to its highest pitch. The city of London, county seat of Madison county, is fortunate, indeed, in the possession of an unusually high grade of local merchants, all of whom ever have the best interests of the city at heart. Among these typically representative citizens few are better known or more deservedly popular than the amiable gentleman with whom this biographical sketch is to treat more directly in the succeeding paragraphs, a sketch so well meriting a place in this historical work that the biographer takes pleasure in here presenting it for the consideration of the readers of this volume. Charles B. Anderson, senior member of the well-known firm of Anderson & Hume, hardware merchants, of London, this county, was born at Irontown, Ohio, on October 9, 1865, son of Thomas Stewart and Candice (Hysell) Anderson, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania and the latter a native of this state. Thomas Stewart Anderson was a tinner and lived at Pomeroy, this state, for more than thirty years, but in 1881 moved to this county, locating at London, where his death occurred in 1893, he then being fifty-one years of age. His widow is still living in London. T. S. Anderson and his wife were the parents of three children, the subject of this sketch having two sisters ,Mrs. Walter J. Dwyer and Mrs. Boyd Byers, both living at Columbus. Ohio. When his parents moved to London, Charles B. Anderson was twelve years of age, consequently his education was completed in the schools of London. For seventeen years he was employed in the store of Jones & Thomas, which firm later was changed to Thomas & Cryder. In the year 1900 Mr. Anderson engaged in business for himself, succeeding C. W. Farrar, in the hardware business, under the firm name of Anderson & Speasmaker, the firm later changing its name to Anderson & Ganschow and still later to Anderson & Hume, its present style, a mutually agreeable and very successful partnership. Anderson & Hume being one of the best-known firms engaged in the hardware business in this section of the state, the store being one of the largest of its, kind in central Ohio. In May, 1899, Charles B. Anderson was united In marriage to Anna Biedenbach, of London, to which union one child has been born, a son, Stewart. Mr. Anderson is a member of the London lodge of the Odd Fellows and of the Modern Woodmen. For years he has been one of the most energetic leaders In the commercial life of the county seat and few names in this county are better known than Ms. With a reputation for fair dealing, enterprise and activity in the business life of his home city. Mr. Anderson has the confidence and respect of his business associates and is held in the highest esteem by all hereabout.