AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 479 ception under his fostering care, and many a struggling enterprise was placed upon a sound basis through his helpfulness. This honored and beloved citizen passed from this life June 30, 1865, being survived by a number of his children and by his second wife, whose death occurred in 1887. Colonel Wick was first married January 1, 1816, to Rachel Kirtland, who was a daughter of Jared Kirtland, of Poland, Ohio. Two children of this marriage are deceased, and Mrs. Wick died in 1820. On November 3, 1828, Colonel Wick married, second, Maria Adelia Griffith, who was born at Caledonia, New York. Of this marriage ten children were born, seven of whom reached maturity. Two of his sons, Caleb B. and Henry K., rank with the leading business men of Youngstown. The former is largely interested in real estate, coal and iron, and has offices, as has his brother, Henry K., at Nos. 404-405 Dollar Bank building, Youngstown. Henry K. Wick is president of the great coal firm of H. K. Wick & Company. Both brothers have handsome residences on Wick avenue. WILLIAM H. McGINNIS, whose achievements in the field of scientific investigation have made his name familiar all over the country wherever interest is fostered in such studies, is a prominent resident of Youngstown and is now serving in his second term as recorder of Mahoning County. He was born at New Middletown, Ohio, December 21, 1847, and is a son of William and Lydia (Welk) McGinnis. The McGinnis family in America was founded by William McGinnis ( 1), who was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1750, came to America in 1782, and died in Pennsylvania, prior to 1817. He left a son, William (2) and a grandson, William (3), the latter of whom was born at Staunton, Virginia, September 12, 1796, and died at Mt. Jackson, Pennsylvania, in 1873, leaving a son, William (4). This William McGinnis, father of William H. McGinnis of Youngstown, was born at Mt. Jackson, Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, July 4, 1824. On March 4, 1847, he married Lydia Welk, who was born at New Middletown, Ohio, and died August 29, 1848. In 1857, William McGinnis went to Kansas, where he took part in the border troubles prior to the opening of the Civil War, and his death took place March 6, 1899, at Valley Falls, in that state. William H. McGinnis attended school at New Middletown up to the age of 13 years. He then came to Youngstown, finding employment in the iron mills of this city, first as a practical workman and later as a skilled mechanic. For 25 years prior to 1896, he traveled extensively in the interest of various business houses. In the last named year he was elected clerk of Youngstown township and through re-election, served four years in that office. His political affiliations have always been with the Republican party to which he has always shown his fealty and by which he has been many times honored by appointment as delegate to important councils and conventions. On November 5, 1901, Mr. McGinnis was elected recorder of Mahoning County, and he has since conducted the affairs of his office with the promptness, efficiency and courtesy which have insured him the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens. Almost from boyhood and on through the years when his opportunities for study and investigation were limited, Mr. McGinnis has been deeply interested in scientific discoveries, particularly in geology and mineralogy. Considering the few advantages he had and the erudite learning necessary to establish scientific facts, Mr. McGinnis' achievements must be considered very remarkable. All of his leisure time was taken up in tudy on his favorite subjects and for years his careful conclusions were accepted by scientific bodies to which they were submitted. When, in April, 1899, he was elected a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, those competent to judge, felt that this honor 480 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY was well bestowed. It was a pleasant but unexpected recognition of worth, to Mr. McGinnis, doubly valued, as he was the first Eastern Ohio scientist to be so recognized. He has continued to contribute much of value to the scientific institutions of Ohio and also to the Smithsonian Institute, at Washington. While Mr. McGinnis has devoted so Much careful study to geology and mineralogy, he has not confined his attention to these subjects, his mind and activities taking in all scientific knowledge. He has exhibited many most interesting specimens at various expositions and a remarkable collection was displayed at the World's Fair at Chicago. His discoveries have settled many scientific points and he has been recognized as an authority in the highest scientific circles. Perhaps his most notable discovery was the specimen of fossil head of the musk ox, which is now on exhibition in the State University at Columbus, in reference to which we are permitted to append portions of a letter received by Mr. McGinnis from Professor Edward Orton, State Geologist of Ohio, under date of February 26, 1899. After friendly congratulations upon this discovery, Professor Orton continues: "This is the third specimen of this kind ever discovered in the United States and the only one ever found in Ohio. This species has been extinct now for over four thousand years. You have the. honor of having discovered one of the rarest and most valuable fossils ever found in Ohio, and by and through you, this Institute is greatly enriched. You have the sincere thanks of the board of managers of this institution for your valuable gift." At various times, Mr. McGinnis has consented to address gatherings on scientific topics, and an interesting occasion was the meeting of the State Horticultural Society, at Ravenna, April 19, 1902, when Mr. McGinnis, as the principal speaker, delivered a scholarly address on Mineralogy as a Moral Scienee. In this address he set forth with clear reasoning and scientific demonstration the value of this branch of science, including, as it does. the study of all inorganic substances in or on the earth, to the sum total of human knowledge, and dwelt especially upon its connection with the advancement of agriculture and the development of useful arts. On February 23, 1865, Mr. McGinnis was married to Mary Morgan, who accompanied her father, Morgan Morgan, from their native land of Wales, when a child of eight years. Morgan Morgan was born at Ebbew, Wales, and with his family. came to the United States, in 1855. Mr. and Mrs. McGinnis had children, as follows : Charles E., who was ac- cidentally killed, at the age of 22 years, while engaged in his duty as assistant miller at the City Flouring Mills, at Youngstown : Grace May, who married Jesse E. Woods; Ford B., who married Annabel Kennedy; William Wade, residing at home ; and two children who died in infancy. Mr. McGinnis and family reside in an attractive home to which the pleasant name of Violet Banks, has been given, which is situated at No. 1018 Orange street, Youngstown. Among the many attractions of this home, not the least is the comprehensive museum which Mr. McGinnis has collected, a visit to which and study of the same, is a liberal education along scientific lines, and to the ordinary student, is a lesson which may be of encouragement to those who, like Mr. McGinnis, find it necessary to meet and overcome many obstacles in order to grasp success. Mr. and Mrs. McGinnis are b0th members of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, he being a member of the official board. He is principal of the junior department of the Sunday-school, in which he has always taken a deep interest. Mrs. McGinnis is also active in church work and is a member of the Ladies' Aid Society. His fraternal connections include membership in Robert E. Johnson Lodge, No. 614, Knights of Pythias ; the Junior Order of United American Mechanics : and the Maccabees. With interest he has watched and taken part in the growth and development of Youngstown and in all that represents its solid worth he is a representative citizen. It AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 481 is with pleasure that the publishers present the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. McGinnis in connection with this biographical outline. FREEMAN H. BEARD, one of Beaver township's best known residents, who has served as township trustee, was born on his present farm in Mahoning County, Ohio, January 22, 1856, and is a son of John and Hannah (Ertzinger) Beard, biographical mention of whom will be found elsewhere in this volume. Freeman Beard was reared on the home farm and has always lived, with the exception of one year spent on an adjoining farm, in his present residence. He was educated in the schools of Beaver township. and everything, concerning its public management and material advancement has been of interest to him. In 1893 he accepted the office of township trustee, to which he was elected on the Democratic ticket, and has served continuously ever since, with the exception of one term, from 1896 until 1899. It is conceded by both parties that Mr. Beard has made an efficient and conscientious public officer and he enjoys the confidence of his fellow citizens. He has always devoted himself to general farming and dairying, as an occupation, and owns 157 acres of as valuable land for agricultural purposes as lies in Mahoning County. On January 30, 1877, Mr. Beard was married to Wilhelmina Moff, who was born in Knox township, Columbiana County, Ohio, May 3. 1856. and is a daughter of Philip and Catherine (Perren) Moff. Her father was born in Germany and her mother in Switzerland. The grandfather, George Philip Moff, emigrated to America and located at North Georgetown, Columbiana County, Ohio, where his family was reared. The mother of Mrs. Beard accompanied her parents to America when she was young. They were Jacob and Susanna (Swartz) Perren, natives of Switzerland, and they too located at North Georgetown. The father of Mrs. Beard died in 1872, but the mother still survives and resides upon her valuable farm of 145 acres, situated in section 6, Beaver township. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Moff were : William, residing at Atwater, Ohio; Wilhelmina; Albert, who died young; Rosa Louisa (deceased), who married Frank Rinkenberger; Edwin, residing at New Buffalo; and Charles, also a resident of New Buffalo. Mr. and Mrs. Beard have had children as follows : Eldora, born September 14, 1878, who married Elmer Ramsey, and resides with her husband at Struthers; Cora, born July 21, 1881, who became the wife of Daniel Mellinger, residing at Youngstown, and has one son —Herbert Daniel, born May 21, 1906; Clinton, born January 25, 1883; Herbert, born March 29, 1890; and Lester, born January 25, 1897, all residing at home. One babe died unnamed. Politically Mr. Beard is identified with the Democratic party, with which his father was also connected until within recent years. He belongs to the fraternal order known as the .Patrons of Husbandry. Both he and wife are members of the Paradise Reformed Church. JOSEPH FEARNLEY BONNELL. The name of Bonnell is so closely identified with the leading industries of the Mahoning Valley, and it has been one so long connected with honorable achievement in and about Youngstown, that interest centers in every one fortunate enough to be of kindred. Joseph Fearnley Bonnell was born at Bradford, Yorkshire, England, a scion of a family which could trace its ancestry back for many generations. For Youngstown the name of Joseph Fearnley Bonnell possesses interest because of his personal relationship to one who for thirty years was connected with the great iron and coal interests of this section, the late John Meek Bonnell, a sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this volume, and to another no less distinguished in the same field, Henry Barmen, of whom also biographical mention is herein made. 482 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY For some 300 years at Bradford. England, grew and flourished a harness and saddlery business, one which had descended from father to son. This business came, in the course of human events, to Joseph Fearnley Bonnell and in it he remained interested until the close of his life, dying December 1, 1875. He married Alice Elizabeth Duffill, also of Yorkshire, and they reared a family of seven children, namely : John Meek (deceased). who in life was a prominent citizen of Youngstown; Elizabeth, Jane Ellen and Mary, residing- in England; Alice, wife of T. J. Storey, general manager of the international Salvage Company. of London; Harry, a well known citizen of Youngstown. extensively interested in the iron industry ; and William Fearnley. one of the partners in the firm of Otis, Bonnell & Company, iron agents, Cleveland. Ohio. Mr. Bonnell is recalled as one of the leading members of the Lister Hills Congregational Church. in which, on account of his exemplary life, he was chosen to the office of senior deacon. HON. GEORGE FRANCIS ARREL, formerly judge of the court of common pleas, and for many years a prominent member of the Mahoning County bar, has been in active practice at Youngstown for over thirty-five years. Mr. Arrel was born October 1840, on his father's farm in Poland township, Mahoning County, Ohio, and is a son of David and Martha (Moore) Arrel. John Arrel, the grandfather of Judge Arrel was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, of Irish parentage and came to Ohio in 1800. He participated in the war of 1812. David Arrel, the eldest son of John and Martha ( Stewart) Arrel, was born in Poland township. Mahoning County, Ohio, May 6. 1803, and his whole life was devoted to agricultural pursuits in that locality. In 1830 he married Martha Moore, who died in June, 1872, Mr. Arrel surviving until 1888. They had these children : William. Margaret (wife of James Pence ), John and George Francis. George Francis Arrel spent his boyhood and early youth on his father's farm and prepared in the local schools for Westminster College, New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, to which institution his father sent him when he was 18 years of age. There he was graduated in general literature, science, and mathematics, in Tune, 1865. He then engaged in the study of the law at Warren. Ohio, until the fall of 1866. when he entered the law department of the Albany University, where he was graduated in 1867. In August the same year he was admitted to the bar, and in 1\1 ay following located for practice at Youngstown. In 1870 he was elected city solicitor and served in that office for four successive terms; in 1880 he was elected to the common pleas bench. in the second sub-division of the ninth judicial district, on which he served until February 9, 1887. Since retiring from judicial life he has continued his private practice. which includes a large amount if railroad and corporation work. Since January 1. 1(;c6. he has been senior member of the law firm    Arrel, Wilson  Harrington. The firm has convenient offices in the Dollar Bank Building. Youngstown. On October 18, 1876. judge Arrel was married to Grace Tod, who is a daughter of that beloved and honored son of Ohio. the late Governor David Tod, of whom a sketch will he found in this work. Judge and Mrs. Arrel have two children. David and Frances Maria. They have a beautiful home situated at No. 124 Lincoln avenue. Youngstown. WILLIAM CHAMBERS. residing on as well improved farm of 116 acres in Boardman township. was born on his present farm. July 13, 1871. son (,f John and Louisa M. ( Andrews) ) Chambers. His grandfather, Thomas Chambers. a native of Ireland, came to America at a very early period. and the vessel in which he made AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 485 the voyage was followed for nearly a week by pirates, but finally managed to reach New York in safety. He first settled in Washington County, Pennsylvania, and later near Pittsburg, in a block house just across the creek. They, with his family and other settlers, were often attacked by the Indians. On one occasion after standing a siege by the latter, he volunteered to go on a hunt for deer. He saw a strange and unfamiliar object in the water and shot what proved to be a catfish weighing 115 pounds. His wife was in maidenhood a Miss McCollough. They reared a large family of children, namely : Thomas, Samuel, James, John, and several daughters. John Chambers, son of Thomas and father of William, was reared in Washington County, Pennsylvania, and when about 15 years old started out in life for himself, working on different farms for his relatives. While still quite young he engaged in the cattle business, in which he was very successful, and which he followed during the greater part of his life. He was married in Crawford County, Ohio, to Louisa M. Andrews, after which he removed to Mahoning. County, settling on the present farm of his son William. He first purchased a tract of 80 acres, to which he later added more land and spent the remainder of his life in Boardman township, his death occurring in 1894 at the age of 78 years. His widow survived him until 1906, dying when 72 years of age. They had five children : Mary (Mrs. William McClaron, residing in New Castle, Pennsylvania) ; Anna, who is unmarried; James B., John and William Andrew. William A. Chambers spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, with the exception of a short period during which he worked in the Lloyd Booth & Company pattern shop at Youngstown. After attending the district schools and also the Northeastern Ohio Normal Institute at Canfield, he worked for some time for his brother J. B. Chambers, in the cement business. He bought his farm from his father's estate in 1901, and makes a specialty of dairying, keeping from fifteen to twenty milk cows. He was married April 21, 1896, to Glendora McCullough, who was born in Poland township, and is a daughter of Josiah and Rosanna Mary (Dobbins) McCullough. Mrs. Chambers has a brother James, who is connected with the Poland Hardware Company. Her father died in r888, and her mother makes her home with her. Mr. Chambers is agent for the Sharpies Tubular Cream Separator and also for all kinds of farm machinery. Mr. and Mrs. Chambers are both members of the Presbyterian Church. SIDNEY DE LAMAR JACKSON, formerly prosecuting attorney of Mahoning County, and a member of the prominent law firm of Norris, Jackson & Rose, at Youngstown, was born April 9, 1855, at Hubbard, Trumbull County, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph M. and Rebecca L. Jackson. The parents of Mr. Jackson came to Mahoning County during his childhood, settling on a farm in Coitsville township, where he later was educated and where he still retains his home. On leaving the public schools Mr. Jackson entered upon the study of the law, under D. M. Wilson, at Youngstown, and was admitted to the bar when 22 years of age. He has continued to practice until the present time, becoming a member of the strong firm of Norris, Jackson & Rose, in November, 1900. The offices of the firm are at Nos. 608-613 Dollar Bank Building. In 1896 Mr. Jackson was elected prosecuting attorney of Mahoning County, and served one term; his administration of this important office proving him to be an able lawyer, and a faithful, conscientious public officer. He retired from the position with honor attaching, to his incumbency and with the continued confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens. While in office he labored indefatigably in the interest of Youngstown, and it was largely clue to his efforts that favorable action was taken in regard to the city's bridges, espe 486 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY cially the viaduct bridge. He is very prominent among the members of the bar. In 1890 Mr. Jackson was united in marriage to Miss Lelia G. McBurney, a daughter of the late Henderson McBurney. Mrs. Jackson for many years was a teacher in the Youngstown public schools. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson have three children---Joseph H., Mary Lorain, and Sidney De Lamar, Jr. Fraternally Mr. Jackson is an Elk and an Odd Fellow. The old family homestead of 160 acres in Coitsville township, is owned by him and here he has a fine summer home. The publishers present Mr. Jackson's portrait in connection with this sketch. JOSEPH HARROLD, a prominent and influential citizen of Beaver township, I residing on his finely improved farm of 113 acres, was born on this same farm, in Mahoning County, Ohio, July 18, 1856, and is a son of Samuel and Susan (Crumbacher) Harrold. David Harrold, the paternal grandfather, came to Ohio over the mountains from Pennsylvania, with the early pioneers of Ohio, and settled in Columbiana County, where he was greatly assisted in his clearing of the forest by his wife, who was a woman of unusual strength and endurance. It is told of her that she could shoulder three bushels of wheat, standing in a half-bushel measure, a feat few men were able to accomplish. Samuel Harrold, father of Joseph, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, near New Waterford, July 16, 1816. He inherited many of his mother's characteristics and much of her robust build. He was able to shoulder five bushels of wheat, and was always foremost in feats of strength. He remained on the old farm in Columbiana County until 24 years of age and then located on the Nicholas Firestone farm, where he lived for five years. He then removed to the old Crumbacher farm, of which he received thirty acres for caring for his mother-in-law while she lived. Prior to her death she divided the 139 acres, and Mr. Harrold purchased the rest of the land from the heirs. Samuel Harrold was an excellent farmer and a very intelligent man. His wife, Susan Crumbacher Harrold, who was born on the old Crumbacher farm, was a daughter of John and Esther (Oberholser) Crumbacher. Her father enlisted from Mahoning County for service in the Mexican War and never returned. As there was no head to the family and no one to provide, little Susan was bound out in her childhood to Nicholas Firestone, the understanding being that she should come in. for her share when the property was finally divided, but troubles arose and she never secured her just portion. The children of Samuel Harrold and wife were eight sons and four daughters, all of whom reached maturity : They were as follows : Simon, who died at Beaver Falls,. aged 62 years, was a successful contractor and builder there ;. Maria, who married George Detrow, resides in Beaver township; Rebecca, who died in Columbiana, aged 45 years, married Samuel Mellinger, who is also deceased ; John is a resident of Columbiana; Anna, who married Valentine Grove, also resides in Columbiana ;. Samuel resides on a farm adjoining that of his brother Joseph on the north; Jacob is a resident of Warren ; Amos resides in Lima ; Joseph is the subject of this article; Susan, who died, aged 29 years, was the wife of Jacob Detwiler; Albert W. is an elder in the German Baptist Church; Elmer resides in Leetonia. . The mother of the above-mentioned died in 1885, aged 66 years. Samuel Harrold, the father, was a Republican in his political views for some years, but later became a Prohibitionist. He was reared a Lutheran, but subsequently united with the Dunkard denomination. Joseph Harrold was reared on the old home farm, and although in hisyouth he contemplated leaving it, he was persuaded to stay, and he now feels that he did wisely in remaining- at home. His youth was spent in very hard work, and, on account of his early advantages having been so limited, he was permitted to attend the district school until he was 22 years of age. He owns 113 acres. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 487 of the 170 which his father left at his death, and has always given careful and industrious attention to farming. He built the first concrete silo in this part of the country, and in many ways has kept up with modern methods. His land has been well improved. In 1880 he built his comfortable 11-room house, in 1881 his substantial barn, 40x70 feet in dimension, and in 1901 a straw shed 50x49 feet. For five years he had worked for his father for $100 a year, and this $500 was his capital when he started out. Mr. Harrold is one of the directors of the Beaver Township Telephone Company and a director and one of the original stockholders of the Columbiana Banking and Savings Company. On February 26, 1880, Mr. Harrold Was married to Melissa C. Miller, who was born in Springfield township, and is a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Lower) Miller, extended mention of whom will be found in this work in the sketch of W. L. Miller. Mr. and Mrs. Harrold have two children : Elsie, who is a graduate of the Columbiana High School class of 1904, and Vera, who is still a student at the Columbiana High School. Mr. Harrold supports the prohibition party. He is just the kind of reliable citizen whom his friends would like to see in office, but he has never consented to serve in any position outside of the German Baptist Church, in which he has been very active, being now a member of its board of trustees. He is also a trustee of the cemetery. PAUL JONES, a retired manufacturer, of Youngstown, Ohio, who has been identified with many of the great industries which have made this city an important business center, was born here in November, 1838, a son of William and Mary (Clark) Jones. The paternal forefathers of Mr. Jones were natives of Ireland. His grandparents were William and Fanny (Stinson) Jones, both of whom were born in County Tyrone, Ireland. William Jones, the father, was born also in County Tyrone, Ireland, December 10, 1810, and came to America with his parents when about 20 years of age, landing at Philadelphia, where his mother had relatives. They shortly after came to Ohio and settled at Lisbon, Columbiana County, William Jones coming to Youngstown about 1830. Here he attended school in the academy, which stood on the site of the present Diamond Block, and which afterwards became the Disciple Church. He learned the trade of bricklayer and stone mason and he was one of the builders whose mortar was good and whose corners always plumb, which expression might be applied both actually in regard to his occupation and in a figurative sense as indicative of his character. On August 9, 1835, William Jones was married to Mary Clark, who was born June 24, 1818, in Coitsville township, Mahoning County, Ohio, and was a daughter of Thomas and Jane (Brownlee) Clark. Thomas Clark was born in Marshall township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, on November 22, 1782. His wife, Jane Brownlee Clark, Mrs. Jones's mother, was a daughter of William and Margaret (Leman) Brownlee, and they settled in Coitsville township, Mahoning County, Ohio. William Brownlee was born in Scotland and came to America before the War of the Revolution. His wife was a native of Ireland. They settled in Washington County, Pennsylvania, where the maternal grandmother of our subject was born. William Jones and wife had two sons, Nathaniel Mitchell and Paul. The father died at the home of his eldest son, at Memphis, Tennessee, on January 27, 1867, and was buried in the family lot at Oak Hill cemetery, Youngstown, by the side of his wife, who passed away on July 14, 1866. Paul Jones was reared and educated at Youngstown, and in 1856 he began his business career as a bookkeeper for Charles Howard of this city. For ten years Mr. Jones continued in this position, and then, with C. D. Arms, C. B. Wick and N. E. Brown, he entered into an iron business; but as this yen- - 27 - 488 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY ture did not prove successful, it was abandoned and Mr. Jones became manager for William Tod & Company. When the company was incorporated he became its secretary and treasurer. In January, 1905, he resigned his offices with the company and retired from active business life. He is vice-president of the Youngstown Steel Company, of Which he is a director, and has had other interests. February 5, 1868, Mr. Jones was married to Minnie Pollock, who was a daughter of Thomas. and Susannah Pollock. Mrs. Jones died on May 20, 1881, leaving one son, Frederick Dennis. Mr. Jones owns a fine residence on the corner of Broadway and Millicent avenue. EPHRAIM RUHLMAN, one of the highly respected, venerable citizens of Beaver township, who has lived practically retired for some years, remains a representative of one of the sturdy old pioneer families that established itself in Ohio seventy-six years ago. He was born in Manheim township, York County, Pennsylvania, November 29, 1821, and is a son of Lewis and Margaret (Hinkel) Ruhlman. Lewis Ruhlman was born also in Manheim township, York County, and was a son of George Ruhlman, who was probably of German ancestry. George Ruhlman was a farmer in Manheim township, and his other occupations were hulling clover and operating a flaxseed oil mill. He married Margaret Riegle, who survived him many years. Lewis Ruhlman continued his father's enterprises and to these added distilling, doing a large business and making many trips to as distant a point as Baltimore, with his whisky. Lewis Ruhlman married Margaret Hinkel, a native of York County, Pennsylvania, and daughter of Anthony Hinkel, who was born in England. As a family began to gather about them, Lewis Ruhlman and his wife decided to dispose of the old farm in Pennsylvania. and move to Ohio,. where, it was re- ported, plenty of good land was awaiting settlers. On May 1, 1831, the family reached New Franklin, Stark County, where they met with disappointment. The building- of the canal had advanced land values to such an extent that Mr. Ruhlman became discouraged at the outlook and decided to make the long journey back to Pennsylvania. In the meanwhile he went to Columbiana on a visit, and while there he was informed of an improved farm which was for sale, near North Lima, the same being now known as the Hollibaugh place. After investigation, he found the land desirable and the price, including farm implements, within his means, $2,000, for the 156 acres, and closed the bargain. He then returned to North Franklin and settled on the farm after transferring- his family and belongings. Lewis Ruhlman was a man with excellent business perceptions. He carried on general farming in all its branches, was one of the first to start a horse-power thresher through this section and continued his manufacture of whisky. To his land he added twenty-two acres and made it a very valuable property, and continued to live on it until the death of his wife. He then sold it and moved to the home of a daughter in North Lima, where he died from the effects of a paralytic stroke. In politics he was a Democrat, and in his day he was elected to various township offices. The children of Lewis and Margaret Ruhlman were : Jesse, who died at Goshen, Indiana ; Amos, residing southeast of Greenville, Pennsylvania ; Ephraim, whose name begins this sketch; Sarah (deceased), who was the wife of Henry Buzzard, of North Lima ; Matilda,. who married Solomon Clinker, and resides at North Lima ; George, who died in Beaver township; William, residing in Marion County, Ohio; Henry, who died at the age of 20 years; Lewis, who died in Springfield township; and Eli, a resident of Poland township. Ephraim Ruhlman remained with his father, giving him very valuable help until he was 21 years and 6 months old, when he started out for .himself.. He had the reputation of being one of the best teamsters in his locality, AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 489 when a mere lad being able to conduct a six-horse team with a loaded wagon, over the mountains to Pittsburg. For seven years he hauled whisky for his father to that point and never had a serious accident. Those were the days when really good horsemanship was required, for such work, and nerve, good judge ment and physical strength were necessary equipments. There are those who still recall Mr. Ruhlman's feats of horsemanship. When he had unloaded the whisky at Pittsburg, he brought goods back, teaming at all times with from four to six horses. He has always been interested in horses and has been able to manage them, keeping stallions on his farm even up to some six years ago. He started out with two fine animals and at one time kept five. Mr. Ruhlman began threshing while working with his father, who owned an outfit, and then went into partnership with Valentine Wentz, with whom he worked for fourteen years. After that he was associated for two years in the threshing business with Snyder & Fosnacht, to which firm he later sold out. Later he worked at threshing for one season with Solomon Paulin, but in this enterprise he lost heavily, and that was the last threshing he did with horse-power. Subsequently he operated a steam thresher for about fourteen years. Like his father, Ephraim Ruhlman developed into a good business man, one who was able to see opportunities and take advantage of them. In 1846 he bought a hotel at North Lima, paying for it the sum of $600, and this he operated until 1870, when he traded it for 160 acres of prairie land in Marshall County, Iowa, getting $750 to boot. Mr.. Ruhlman went to Iowa to inspect the property, but on account of the invalidism of his wife, he never settled on it. Subsequently he sold. it and bought fifty-five acres in Beaver township, on which his. eldest son, Jacob, settled and remained on it until after the death of the latter's mother: Mr. Ruhlman kept the property, renting until some two years ago, when he sold it at a good figure. In October, 1842; Ephraim Ruhlman was married to Rebecca Buzzard, who was born in Manheim township, York County, Pennsylvania, in March, 1821, and died in Beaver township on her birthday anniversary in 1886. She had been a patient sufferer for some time previously, having experienced three strokes of paralysis. Her parents were well-known York County people, Jacob S. and Catherine (Thoman) Buzzard. The children born to Ephraim Ruhlman and wife were the following: Jacob, who died at North Lima, married (first) Elizabeth Ritter, and (second) Angeline Burkey; William H., biographical mention of whom will be found in this work; Dr. Lewis B., late a prominent physician, whose sudden death occurred some years since at Youngstown; Margaret Samantha, who died aged 5 years; and John H., residing at Youngstown. After the death of his wife, the eldest son of Mr. Ruhlman came to North Lima and made his home with his father. Later he opened a boarding house and still later took charge of a hotel, which he operated for three years, and died while its proprietor. His widow continued the management of the hotel for six months longer and then moved to Mr. Ruhlman's farm and has kept house for him ever since; Mr. Ruhlman is getting to be an old man, but gives no indication either in mind or body that 86 years have passed over his silvered head. The clearness with which he remembers the events of long ago, and the pleasant way in which he relates concerning them, makes a friendly visit with this octogenarian very enjoyable. Since 1856 he has been a stanch Republican and has served four terms as township assessor, elected first on the Democratic ticket, but later on the Republican. SOLOMON ELSER, up to, the time of his death on June 3, 1907 one of Beaver township's most prominent and respected citizens, was a resident of North Lima froth., 1899, and had been identified with the township's official life for a great Many years. Mr. Elser was born in Springfield township, two and one-half miles south of Poland, June 24, 1832, and 490 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY is a son of Jacob and Margaret (Greenamyer) Elser. Mr. Elser's ancestors on the paternal side were German Huguenots, who were driven from their native land in the troublesome times of religious persecution. On the maternal side his forefathers were Scotch. In 1806 George Elser, the grandfather, founded the family in Springfield township, which was then in Columbiana County... The great-grandfather, Peter Elser, who was of German parentage, came from Alsace-Lorraine with other Huguenots, and settled in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The family records tell that the grandmother of George Elser came to America in 1749, with three sons and two daughters. George Elser, born at Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, married Catherine Summers, and when they came to Springfield township they had three children, the youngest of whom was the father of Solomon Elser of North Lima. Great-grandfather John Summers was married twice and had twenty-three children, sixteen of whom were married, and each were given 100 acres of land, with the exception of the youngest, who, in lieu of land, received $300 in cash. He came to Springfield township in 1802, from Maryland, and took up half a section where the town of Leetonia now stands. His son ran the first grist and saw mill, at Leetonia, the only one in this part of the country at the time, which was built for him by George Elser, his brother-in-law. The children of George Elser and wife were : John, George, Jacob, Peter and Samuel. The last named died young, but the others all reached the age of 80 years, with the exception of Peter, who almost reached it. Jacob Elser, father of Solomon, was born at Hanover, Pennsylvania, and had not reached manhood when his father came to Springfield township. Not long after his marriage he removed to Beaver township, locating in the southern part, where he engaged in farming. He sold that farm at a later period and purchased a smaller one near Columbiana, where he and his wife lived some years. They then, went to the home of their eldest daughter, in the village, where both died. Jacob Elser married Margaret Greenamyer, who was born in Unity township, Columbiana County, Ohio; and was a daughter of Jacob Greenamyer, whose father was an early settler and ran a mill, coming to Ohio from the neighborhood of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. The children of Jacob and Margaret Elser were: Samuel, whose death at the age of four years was the result of an accident; Sarah, who married Henry Werner, residing south of Columbiana ; Solomon, whose name begins this sketch ; Tobias, residing at North Lawrence ; George, who died aged 21 years; Catherine, who married Jacob Keller, residing south of North Lima ; Jacob, a resident of North Lima ; and Elizabeth, who died unmarried at the age of 21 years. Jacob Elser was a stanch Jacksonian Democrat. He served as supervises and as trustee of Beaver township. Solomon Elser passed his boyhood on the home farm in Springfield township and accompanied his father to Beaver township in 1849. He considered it his duty to remain with his parents until he was 21 years old, and then worked for neighboring farmers and for several years hired out by the year. In 1859 he began to farm for himself, but the season was even more backward that year than that of 1907, the time of the present writing. He recorded the fact that wheat, grass and corn were frozen solid on June 5, 1859, and the promise of an abundant crop was thus dissipated. In 1862 Mr. Elser bought a farm in the southern part of Beaver township, through which the railroad now runs, known as the David Whipple farm, and he resided on that place for three years and then lived on his father-in-law's place for three years, in the meantime selling his own farm and buying a place located one and one-half miles northwest. Mr. Elser continued to 0perate that farm until the spring of 1899, when he moved to North Lima, selling the farm and purchasing a comfortable home in the village. On October 14, 1858, Mr. Elser was married to Margaret Witter, who was born in AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 493 Springfield township, and who is a daughter of David Witter. This marriage was blessed with four children, namely : Louisa, Enos Walker, Laura and Alice. The eldest daughter, Louisa, married C. A. Snyder, and resides in Pittsburg. She has four children, namely : Volney, who took a course with the International Correspondence School and is now employed in the Westinghouse plant at Pittsburg; Goldie, of whom there is no special mention ; Claude, who is also employed at Pittsburg; and Mernie. The second daughter, Laura, is the wife of Isaac Yoder, residing, south of East Lewistown. The third daughter, Alice, married John Pfau, residing at North Lima, and they have one son, Kenneth Solomon. Enos W. left home for the west in 1880, and was last heard from at LeMars, Kansas; it is not known if he is living. From early manhood Mr. Elser was greatly interested in politics and was credited by his neighbors with most excellent judgment. Thus, on many occasions, he was called on to accept positions of honor and responsibility, and after coming to North Lima was continuously in office. In 1863 he was elected a trustee of Beaver township, on the Democratic ticket, and served as treasurer, clerk, assessor, land appraiser and during one year of the Civil War was register of deeds; he served also for one year as district commissioner. In 1867 he was elected justice of the peace and has held that responsible office up to the time of his death, with the exception of four years, when he declined to serve. After his resignation another justice was appointed, but he was so unfamiliar with the details of the office that not many cases were placed in his charge. It was then that Mr. Elser took Out notarial papers and transacted much business in that line. Through careful study he prepared himself for official duties and rarely had a decision rendered against him in this long period. He acted in the capacity of assignee. executor and administrator, and satisfactorily settled up numerous estates. His official life covered more than forty years; he was familiar with law and its proper conception and administration as fully and completely as many a gradu ated attorney. In the performance of his many duties, he handled many affairs in so just, yet so diplomatic a manner, that each party to the contention has been satisfied, on many occasions, without any prolonged litigation, and this quality gained for him the respect, confidence and esteem of people all over the township. He was one of the leading members of the Reformed Church at North Lima. HON. BENJAMIN F. WIRT, one of Youngstown's most prominent and respected citizens, formerly a member of the state senate, who has been identified with the Youngstown bar for many years, was born March 26, 1852, at West Middlesex, Pennsylvania, and is a son of William and Eliza J. (Sankey) Wirt. His great-grandfather, Peter Wirt, served in the War of Independence, enlisting from Pennsylvania. Peter Wirt, son of Peter and grandfather of Benjamin F., was born at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, served in the war of 1812, and was the founder of the family in Mahoning County, Ohio. 'William Wirt, his son, and the father of Benjamin F., was born in 1826, at Youngstown, and was here engaged in business as a contractor and builder for many years. In 1849 he married Eliza J. Sankey, who died September 23, 1881, leaving but one child, Benjamin F. As his tastes led rather toward a professional life than the one in which his father had achieved a competency, Benjamin Wirt prepared for the law with Hon. L. D. W0odworth, was admitted to the bar in 1873, and practiced in partnership with Judge Woodworth until 1880. In 1896 he entered into partnership with M. A. Norris, but since 1900 he has been practicing alone. His legal ability is generally recognized throughout eastern Ohio, and he has successfully handled some of the most important litigation ever brought before the courts of this section. His office is located in the Second National Bank Building. 494 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY Since early. manhood Mr. Wirt has been active politically., and is accorded the honors of Republican leadership. In 1889 he .was elected to represent the 23rd senatorial district in the state senate and was returned for a second term in 1901.. For fifty-three years he has been a resident of Youngstown, and he is personally .popular all over Mahoning County. His portrait, which accompanies .this article, will be quickly recognized by his numerous friends. In 1881 Mr. Wirt was married to Mary M. McGeehen, a daughter of Daniel, McGeehen, who is a resident of New Bedford, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Wirt have a pleasant home at No. 31 West Rayen avenue, Youngstown. BRUCE S. MATTHEWS, a successful farmer and extensive breeder of Delaine sheep, with which industry he has been identified almost since boyhood, owns 165 acres, of fine land, which .is .situated in Boardman township, about five miles. measuring south from the Diamond in Youngstown. He was born in a house then standing on his present farm in Boardman township, Mahoning County, Ohio, May 1, 1846, his parents being Thomas and Cynthia (Shannon) Matthews. The Matthews family, has an interesting history and is one of the old and .substantial families of this part of Ohio. The grandparents of Bruce S. Matthews were Thomas and Jane (McClurg) Matthews, well-known names in County Down, Ireland, where they were born. Thomas Matthews followed, the trade, of stone mason in Ireland until after his marriage and the birth .of one child,. when he decided to emigrate, to America, where he hoped to better his. condition. In 1813, accompanied by his family, he took passage on a sailing. vessel, which safely landed, its voyagers at Castle Garden, New York, in July, after a. passage of six, weeks. Mr. Matthews proceeded to Pittsburg; where he worked at his trade for about a year, and afterwards at other points up to, 1822,. when he came to Poland, Mahoning County, where, there Was much work in his line to be done at that time. Thomas Matthews built the abutments of the old Poland bridge, which stood until within three years ago. He died at Poland, aged 80 years,. and was buried in the old burying-ground here. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Jane Matthews moved. to Sheakleyville, Pennsylvania, where she died in advanced age. Their daughter, Ann Jane, who had been born in Ireland, married in America John Wishard. Five more children were born in the United States, the eldest of these being Thomas, father of Bruce S., whose birth occurred August 17, 1813, at Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania, six weeks after the family reached there, the site being that of the .old garrison. He accompanied .his parents when they made the overland journey to Poland, and when his father died he went to live with Richard Hall. Mr. Hall found in him a youth he could trust and his reliability was proved when he was sent alone, with a six-horse team and a load of clover seed, from Poland to Buffalo, New York, where he transacted his business and returned within the specified time, bringing back. a load of salt. ,He remained with Mr. Hall until he attained his majority. On December 29, 1841, Thomas Matthews was married to Cynthia Shannon, who was, born in Youngstown township, Mahoning County, Ohio, April 48, 1824. Her father, Major John Shannon, an officer in the war of 1812, was born in Ireland, came to America and settled first at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, but later moved to Youngstown. After his marriage, Thomas Matthews resided for a short time in Poland township, where he rented farming land, and then bought, in 1844, the farm now owned by his sons, from Dr. Wick. At that time all this surrounding country was heavily timbered, but a two-story hewn log cabin stood on the place, which had been built in i811. This remained the family borne until the winter of 1863, when the present commodious ten-room frame dwelling was erected. In this home Thomas Matthews died, AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 495 June 2, 1883. He was survived a number of years by his widow, her death occurring November 21, 1896. They were people of real worth and their lives were connected closely with the growth of the section in which they lived for so many years. They reared a family of six children, the two survivors being Bruce Shannon and Charles Wick. Those deceased were : William S.; Ellen Jane, who died April 1, 1855 ; Ella Day, who died December 16, 1863; and Cora Cynthia, who died at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, January 29, 1866. Dr. William S. Matthews, the eldest brother of Bruce S. Matthews, was born October 30) 1843, practiced medicine at Youngstown, and died May 9, 1888. When but 17 years of age he entered the Federal service as a member of Company I, both Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was made orderly sergeant and for unusual bravery was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and then to that of captain. The particular occasion which brought promotion so rapidly was told at the time in the public press, but will well bear repeating. In a charge on a fort one of the members of his company, of which he was then lieutenant, was wounded so that he could not escape with his comrades. When Lieutenant Matthews realized the danger of his companion, he quickly called for volunteers to assist him to carry the wounded soldier from in front of the enemy's fire to a place of safety. One man, Andy Barger, a private, was the brave comrade who, with Lieutenant Matthews, faced the bullets whistling around their ears, and safely conveyed the helpless soldier to the breastworks of the Union lines. It was so valorous a deed that the Confederates could not restrain their admiration and set up a great cheer which united with that of all who witnessed this act of devotion. Both participants received well-deserved promotion. Bruce Shannon Matthews was reared in his native township and went to school in an old log log house which stood in the woods. Its furnishings were rough-hewn logs with wooden pins driven in for seats, while the desks were built along the walls, a slanting plank resting on more wooden pegs. At first a fireplace gave heat to. the loosely built building, but later a hugh cannon stove was installed. Nevertheless Mr. Matthews can remember when the children would frequently find the floor covered with ice and no winter passed without many hapless little ones getting frozen feet. As far as he was concerned, he was given little time to attend school, work always pressing on the farm, and before he reached man's estate he had done a' large amount of clearing. His father was a large sheep grower also, and from his boyhood he has been haying experience in this line. For 17 years he has stood in sheep pens at county fairs, exhibiting fine specimens. He makes a specialty of raising the Delaine strain, keeping about 200 head. In 1871, Mr. Matthews went out with a paty of surveyors who were working in the interest of a railroad. His idea was. to spend a few days with the party, more for experience than anything else, but he remained out for two years, working between the lake and the Ohio River. He was recalled to the farm by his father's failing health, and has remained in Boardman township ever since. Few men are better or more favorably known. He has done business with the larger number of farmers all over Mahoning County, and they are ready to affirm their respect for him as an honest, fair-dealing man. On February 28, 1888, Mr. Matthews was married to Myrtle Harris, who was born on her father's farm in Boardman township, and is a daughter of Hamilton and Candace (McFarlin) Harris. Hamilton Harris, now living retired in Youngstown, was born in Coitsville township, Mahoning County, Ohio, July 1, 1833, and was married in April, 1857, to Candace McFarlin, who was born in Coitsville township, May 23, 1831, and died August 8, 1874. They had six children, three of whom died young. Those living are : Myrtle (Mrs. Matthews), William, and Minnie. Mr. and Mrs. Matthews have one child, Jessie Harris, who is attending the Boardman High School. Mr. Matthews, like his father, has always 496 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY been a strong supporter of the principles of the Republican party. He has served three terms as township trustee. His father served as second lieutenant of the old home militia company. Mr. Matthews and family belong to Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church at Youngstown. ISAEL E. ADAMS president of the Dollar Savings & Trust Company, of Youngstown, Ohio, is one of the representative business men of this city and has been identified with this financial institution since 1895. Mr. Adams was born at Cleveland, Ohio, October 25, 1867, son of Comfort and Catherine (Peticolas) Adams. The father of Mr. Adams was a native of Connecticut, and for a number of years was a large manufacturer there, but subsequently removed to Cleveland, where he died. He had four children. Asael E. Adams was reared and educated at Cleveland and received his collegiate training in the Case School of Applied Science. For a large part of his business life he was engaged in an abstract business in Cleveland, and after coming to Youngstown, in 1893, he continued thus engaged until called to the presidency of The Dollar Savings & Trust Company. This institution has a capital of $1,500,000. Its officers are. Asael E. Adams, president ; John C. Wick, vice-president; Henry M. Garlick, vice-president; Rolla P. Hartshorn, treasurer ; E. Mason Wick, secretary; Paul H. McElevey, assistant treasurer; Charles J. Wick, cashier ; and E. H. Hosmer, assistant cashier. The large amount of capital represented and the prominence of its officers have done much to sustain confidence in this bank, while its honorable methods and prompt business dealings have made it justly popular. Mr. Adams was married to one of the fair daughters of Youngstown, Anna J. Shook, whose father, Silas Shook, is one of this city's most prominent citizens. They have two chil dren, Asael E., Jr., and Comfort A. Mr. Adams and wife belong to the Westminster Presbyterian Church. They have a beautiful home on the corner of Fifth avenue and Broadway, Youngstown. In political opinions Mr. Adams is a. Republican. Fraternally he is identified with the Elks. JAMES A. BROWNLEE, one of Boardman township's most venerable and highly respected citizens, resides on his valuable farm of 172 acres and owns also 60 acres situated just across the highway, but in Poland township. Mr. Brownlee has been an American citizen for many years, but this is not the land of his birth, that having taken place on Turfoot Farm, near the village of Strethhaven, 12 miles from the city of Glasgow, Scotland, February 4, 1825. His parents. John and Margaret (Wilson) Brownlee, were natives of Scotland, quiet, virtuous people whose main object in life became a wise provision for their five children. It was this desire that caused John Brownlee to make arrangements to follow the example of his two brothers, Alexander and David, who had emigrated to America previously, and who had both become possessed of valuable farms, Alexander owning 400 acres in Mahoning County, and David an equally large tract. Still another brother, William, had emigrated and settled in New York, as early as 1812, and subsequently become a minister in the Reformed Church. In 1832, John Brownlee had about completed his arrangements to sail for America with his family, when he was stricken with illness and died before the time arrived. The mother of James Brownlee was a woman of great resolution and of admirable character. When left a widow. with the future welfare of her children subject to her sole guidance, she resolved to carry out the plans of their late father and when the appointed time came, took passage with them on the sailing vessel which landed them all safely in the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 497 port of New York after a voyage of some eight weeks. By canal and lake they reached Ashtabula County, and, thence came in wagons to Mahoning County, finally reaching the farm now owned by Mr. Brownlee, which had probably been selected by one of his uncles. The land had been partially cleared and a six-room stone house was standing and thus immediate shelter was found. The surrounding country was better settled than in some other localities although considerable small game still remained. In spite of the many pioneer hardships to which Mrs. Brownlee was necessarily subjected, she lived a widow for thirty-three years after coming to America, dying on this farm in 1865 at the age of 84. Her children were: Alexander, Thomas, William, David and James Archibald. James Archibald Brownlee, the youngest member of the above family, is also its only survivor. He was but seven years of age when he accompanied his mother from his native land, but is able to recall many events of that long journey. He grew to manhood on the present farm and obtained his education in a little log-school house which stood near his home. He remembers the rough slab benches and the big fireplace in which it was the duty of the boys to take turns in lighting a fire and also in procuring fuel from the nearby forest. He grew up industrious and obedient to his mother, and remained on the farm with her after the other boys went out into the world to shift for themselves. On March 16, 1855, Mr. Brownlee was married to Rebecca Gilchrist, who was born November 16, 1832, at Allegheny, Pennsylvania, and was a daughter of James and Grace (McGraw) Gilchrist. Her father was a well known carpenter and contractor. Her mother was the widow of a Mr. McGraw, her maiden name being McClelland. Eight children were born to this marriage, as follows : Mary and James H., who both reside at home; John and Edward, twins, the former residing at home, the latter a physician practicing at Struthers, a graduate of Poland Union College and of Dartmouth College, who married Ella Geddes; Eva, who married David Blunt, and resides on Loveland Hill; Irvin, residing near Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, who married Minnie Lormer, of Detroit, and has four children—Lormer, Ruth, Irvin and Robert; Ralph, of whom there is no special mention; and Grace, the wife of George Hunter, residing near Pittsburg, who has two children—Margaret and Wallace. Mr. Brownlee and family belong to the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Brownlee has always followed farming and stock-raising as his occupations, and at one time he supplied almost all the meat used in Youngstown. He obtained a part of his land from his mother's estate (it having been purchased from the heirs of John Zedeger), and 53 acres from Peter Webber, on Which tract stands his comfortable I-room house. Coal has been found on Mr. Brownlee's property, two veins having been developed from which many tons of fine fuel have been secured and doubtless many more will be mined. Politically, Mr. Brownlee is a Republican; he has held a number of township offices, serving as township trustee, assessor and for two terms as land appraiser. Both he and his wife are widely known, and have long been noted for their hospitality. Mrs. Brownlee, like her husband, is the youngest member and only survivor of a large family. Her parents died at Coitsville. Her brothers and sisters were : Isabella, who married Robert Morris; Jane, who married Samuel Shaffer ; Nancy, who married William Cooper ; Margaret, who married James Harvey ; Ellen, who married Thomas Kirk ; Mary, who married James D. Shields; James, Alexander, and Elizabeth. JOHN BEARD, a highly esteemed and one of the most venerable residents of Mahoning County, who has resided on his present farm since 1848, was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, July 2, 1818, and is a son of Jacob and Frederika (Unkauf) Beard. The parents of Mr. Beard came to America from Wittenberg, Germany, in 1817, locating 498 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY first in Westmoreland County., Pennsylvania. In the following the birth of Mr. Beard, they moved to Springfield township, Mahoning County, Ohio, where. Jacob Beard purchased a 40-acre tract of `timber, to which he subsequently added two 80-tracts, all of which he cleared up. He was a typical German pioneer, possessing all the sturdy characteristics of his race, and he reared a family which has reflected credit upon their parentage and the country in which they were reared. In 1839, Jacob Beard sold his possessions in Springfield township and purchased section 5, Beaver. township, which is still known as the Beard section and is largely owned by his descendants. He built a home on the part now owned by Alvin Thoman and later built where G. S. Beard lives. When his days of activity were over he moved with his wife to Canfield, where they resided to the end of their lives, passing away honored and respected by all who knew them. The children born to Jacob Beard and wife were : John; whose name appears at the head of this sketch; Jacob, extended mention of whom will be found in the sketch of Monroe Beard, printed on another page of this volume; Susanna (deceased), who married Dr. Louis Zeigler; Frederika, who married Joseph B. Miller, of Boardman township and is now deceased; Henry and Jacob, both deceased; Lydia, who married Gabriel Klyne, residing at Youngstown ; Hannah (deceased), who married Peter Klyne, and David, who resides in Newton Falls, Mahoning County. John Beard was reared in a very practical manner and from childhood was taught that industry is the price of success. As he was the eldest of the sons, he became his father's chief assistant. He remained at home until 1848, when he purchased 50 acres of partly cleared land, on which then stood an old log cabin. Later he bought 18 acres and still later 24 acres, both of which he subsequently traded in a bargain for a 100-acre farm adjoining his original purchase. He then built the comfortable home in which he has lived ever since, having also erected other substantial buildings in connection therewith. During his active years he was a successful agriculturist and was. considered one of the township's most useful and substantial men. Although he has passed his 89th birthday, he retains his vital powers in a w0nderful degree. In January, 1844, Mr. Beard was married to Hannah Ertzinger, who was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1823, a daughter of John Ertzinger. Mr. and Mrs. Beard had two children, Lydia and Freeman H. The former, born April 15, 1845, married Andrew Lynn, of Beaver township, and died in 1897. Freeman H. Beard resides in section 7, Beaver township, where he has a valuable farm of 157 acres. Politically, Mr. John Beard is a Republican. He is a member of the Paradise Lutheran Church. Mr. Beard's memory being excellent he can recall many interesting events and conditions pertaining to this section. He remembers when Youngstown had but one store, and but a few cabins, and when the location now occupied by the Diamond was nothing but a rank pond. At that time Poland was a more thriving place, having three stores and a larger population. Wages paid for labor during his early manhood and the price of commodities furnish food for reflection. In his day. work began as the sun peeped over the hills at dawn and continued, with a brief "nooning" until the stars shone at night, when a choice was given the laborer of a bushel of wheat or the sum of 25 cents in money, this scale being only operative, however, during harvest days, at other times the pay being but 18 cents. Mr. Beard recalls the time when a barrel of salt cost 48 bushels of shelled corn, eggs were worth from two cents to but 0ne and one-half per dozen, butter was three cents per pound, chickens were three cents each and for coffee 65 cents a pound was demanded. It is a long distance to look back over 89 years and wonderful events have happened within the span of his life. He still keeps himself well informed concerning public affairs and takes an interest in local happenings and the welfare of his neighbors and kindred.