650 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY Monarch rather than deny his faith. It was mainly on account of religious persecution that Daniel Sheehy was induced to turn his back on his native land, and in 1770, to emigrate to America. For a number of years he resided at New York and when the War of the Revolution broke out, he entered the Patriot army. and fought through the whole of the long struggle which resulted in American independence. At what date Daniel Sheehy came first to the Western Reserve is not definitely known, but probably very soon after the close of the war, and it is certain that he had made several horseback trips prior to locating in Mahoning County, Ohio, in 1796, when he bought the land which is now Mrs. Wilson's Oakland Farm. His former residence had been New York City and at Whitestown, New York, where also resided John Young, who later joined Daniel Sheehy in the Western Reserve, acquiring land which included quite a portion of Youngstown township. John Young gave his name to Youngstown, and in the early days the two pioneers were friends, but later business differences arose which separated them. Daniel Sheehy's first entering of land, it is said, amounted to 1000 acres, and he built a log cabin on the bank of the beautiful river which was even known then as the Mahoning. He then constructed at canoe, with a skill remarkable in a man whose early years had been devoted exclusively to intellectual pursuits and in this frail boat made excursions down the river to Beaver, Pennsylvania, to lay in necessary supplies. On one of these trips Ile met the beautiful 16-year-old Jane McLain. of Scotch ancestry, and won her consent to return with him to the little log cabin on the Mahoning, as his bride. His next trip to Beaver was made on horseback and when he returned his young wife was with him on the same horse. The home to which he took her was a primitive log structure, which stood only a stone's throw from Mrs. Wilson's present mansion, its main advantage, to modern views. being its ventilation, as it had no door or window. A quilt hung up at night. how ever, afforded protection from the wind and storm and there is no record but that this was a happy home. Later he built a much better cabin, a double log house, which he placed on a knoll about 150 yards from the first cabin, and there the family lived for a great many years, and there Daniel Sheehy died. He was survived many years by his widow, who was much younger than he, and she died at the home of her son James, who had built a frame house on the site of Mrs. Wilson's residence. John Young Sheehy, father of Mrs. Wilson, was born in the first home of his parents, on the bank of the Mahoning, and lived on the home farm all his life. He was the first white child born in Youngstown township. Daniel Sheehy named his son for his friend, John Young, who, at that time was so pleased at the honor, that he presented his namesake with two lots in the village of Youngstown, one of these being the present site of the wholesale house of John H. Fitch ; the other is the present site of the Lucretia Baldwin public school. These lots remained in the family until after the death of John Young Sheehy, when, in the settlement of the estate, they were sold. John Young Sheehy married Anna Kimmel, who was a daughter of Isaac and Anna Kimmel. Isaac Kimmel was a native of Switzerland and his wife of Amsterdam, Holland. They were married in Pennsylvania and when the came first to Ohio, settled in Trumbull County, but later removed to what was known as Senator Wirt's place at Brier Hill, in Youngstown township, which they subsequently sold and moved to Coitsville township. Their home was on the present sit, cf the Iron, Sheet and Tube Company's plant. John Young Sheehy and wife had five children, namely : Robert, deceased (who left two sons, John Young and William W.) : Ellen Sheehy, widow of George C. Wilson ; Lois. who married (first) Charles Medbury and (second) James \V. Ross. and resides on Lincoln avenue, Youngstown (she had one son Frank B. Medbury) ; Anna S., who is the widow of Thomas J. Lewis, and who resides with her sister, Mrs. Wilson; and Daniel J., residing on Wilson avenue, at Youngstown. John AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 651 Young Sheehy died in May, 1844. Mrs. Sheehy was later married (second) to Alexander Truesdale, who gave the name of Truesdale avenue to one of the beautiful thoroughfares of Youngstown. Mrs. Wilson, formerly Ellen Sheehy, was. born on the beautiful property which she has appropriately named Oakland Farm, a view of which appears on a neighboring page, and although many years of her married life were passed in other surroundings, this place was always "home." She was educated in the excellent schools at Youngstown, proving a very intelligent pupil, and when but 16 years of age, she was given a certificate which entitled her to teach. She taught first in the district schools through the township and later at Youngstown, and continued until the time of her marriage, in October, 1859, to George C. Wilson, who died June 10, 1897. GEORGE C. WILSON, one of the prominent citizens of Mahoning County, was born on his father's farm near Weathersfield, south of Girard, Trumbull County, Ohio. He was a boy of resolute character and very early in life decided to take care of himself, and with this end in view, he left home and went to Niles, Ohio. While there he attended school with a companion who later became President William McKinley. Mr. Wilson went from Niles to Warren and thence to Youngstown, where he engaged in clerking for a time and then entered the railroad business which necessitated his going to the south. After becoming established there he returned to Youngstown, where he was married, in 1859. to Ellen Sheehy, and together they went to Panola County, Mississippi, where they spent the first winter. Mr. Wilson was employed in the construction of the Memphis and Ohio Railroad which was then in the course of building, and his family residence was changed from Panola County to Memphis, Tennessee, and to Henry County, in the latter state, as the work progressed. In the latter county Mr. and Mrs. Wilson remained some time in the home of Senator Harris, a prominent man of that section. Subsequently Mr. Wilson became attached to the pay-master's and quartermaster's department in the government offices at Louisville, Kentucky, where he continued until the close of the war. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson then settled on the Sheehy farm, where Mr. Wilson resided until his death. He raised fine stock and also served as bookkeeper for several years for large corporations. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson, having no children of their own, adopted a daughter, Elizabeth T. Wilson, who is Mrs. Wilson's able assistant in managing her large property interests, which include the selling of lots from a large plat on Wilson avenue, a choice location of the city, which bears the name in honor of the late George C. Wilson. Mrs. Wilson has many social duties to perform, being very prominent at Youngstown. The publishers take pleasure in presenting her protrait with that of her late husband, in addition to the view of the farm as mentioned in the preceding sketch. ALVIN THOMAN, residing on his valuable farm of 140 acres in Beaver township, where he carries on general farming and dairying and operates a sawmill and cider-press, and also owns a threshing outfit, is one of the substantial and representative men of this section. Mr. Thoman was born April 11, 1860, on the home farm in Beaver township, Mahoning County, Ohio, and is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Heintzelman) Thoman. Henry Thoman, grandfather of Alvin, born in 1792, in York County, Pennsylvania, came from Pennsylvania to Mahoning County, about 1829, locating in Beaver township near East Lewistown, on a tract of 90 acres, which is now the farm of G. W. Harter. After living there for 37 years he moved to the farm just across the road from the farm now owned by 652 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY Alvin Thoman, but later removed to Canfield township, where he died in 1885. He had served in the War of 1812. For some years he operated an old fashioned sawmill. His wife, in maidenhood, was Nancy Motter, born in 1794, in York County, Pennsylvania. They were the parents of eleven children, as follows: Harriet, born in 1816; Daniel, 1817; Catherine, 1819; Lewis, 1822; Henry, 1824; Margaret, 1826; Isaac, 1828; Samuel, 1832; Jesse, Amanda, the dates of w=hose birth are not given, and one other whose name has not been ascertained. Samuel Thoman, father of Alvin, was born at Fast Lewistown, Mahoning County, in 1832. After reaching manhood he was engaged in farming and in operating a sawmill and then embarked in a mercantile business at New Buffalo. where he remained for three years and carried on the same business at Green ford for four years, coming from there to Beaver township, where he lived for ten years. He then removed to Canfield township where he died October 28, 1891. aged 59 years. 9 months and 28 days. He married Elizabeth Heintzelman, who was born in Beaver township, and is a daughter of Jacob and Rebecca (Lynn) Heintzelman. She still resides on the old homestead in Canfield township. Samuel and Elizabeth Thoman had six children, as follows: Ora Alice, deceased at three years ; Alvin, whose name begins this sketch ; Viola. who married G. L. Millard, residing in Canfield township; Melville, who died young; Cora. who married W. C. Geis, residing in Boardman township ; and an infant son, who is deceased. Politically, Samuel Thoman was identified with the Republican party. He was a man of excellent judgment and of good standing in his community, and for some years he served as township trustee. Alvin Thoman was educated in the district schools and remained under the parental roof until his marriage, at the age of 27 years. He then moved to a place east of East Lewistown, where he operated a grist mill for two and one-half years, removing then to New Buffalo. He then moved to a farm in Beaver township, situated west of the John Beard property, where he. resided seven years and also lived two years on his grandfather Miller's farm. In 1895, Mr. Alvin Thoman came to his present farm, the Old Miller home place and here he has devoted himself to the various lines of agricultural industry. For a number of years he has had the threshing season filled with contracts, owning a complete outfit for this important work. On October 21, 188o, Mr. Thoman was married to Hattie E. Messerly, who was born in Beaver township on what is now the Lynn farm, a daughter of George D. and Mary Ann (Miller) Messerly, and a granddaughter of Joseph B. Miller. Joseph B. Miller was born February 2, 1818, in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, and is a son of Isaac and Catherine (Lynn) Miller, whom he accompanied to Canfield township, Mahoning County. where he was reared. When he married Fredericka Beard, a sister of the venerable John Beard, he bought the place where George Miner lived and later bought what is now the Thoman place, on which, in 1849, Ile built a barn, erecting a house in the following year. At that time Mr. Miller worked for his own interest, but when he started out for himself he earned but $6 a month. He now owns what is reputed to be the best farm in Boardman township, a tract of 200 acres of rich, well-improved land. In 1880 he erected his substantial barn. and in 1884. the present residence. Mr. and Mrs. Miller had three children, namely : Mrs. Messerly ; George W., who died young; and Dorothy, who married William Hilbish. George D. Messerly, father of Mrs. Thoman, was born in Beaver township, Mahoning County, and was a son of John Messerly. After his marriage to Mary Ann Miller he settled on the farm which is now occupied by Andrew Lynn. but later moved to Canfield township, where he died September 5. 1893. aged 62 years. Mr. and Mrs. Messerly had three children, namely : Hattie E. ; Joseph, who died young; and Charles. who, with his mother, resides 'with the aged grandfather. Charles Messerly married Frances Reel and AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 655 they have one .son, George D. In this home live four generations. Mr. and Mrs. Thoman have six children, Leroy Eugene, Blanch May, Myrtle Pearl, Effie Hilda, Bertha Ethel and Ivan Arthur. Blanch May married Frederick Sprinkle, resides in Canfield township, and has three children—Russell Alvin, Mildred Mary, and Hazel Agnes. Leroy Eugene, Myrtle Pearl, Effie Hilda, Bertha Ethel and Ivan Arthur, reside at home. Mr. Thoman and family belong to the Reformed Church. Politically he is a Republican and was elected a justice of the peace, but refused to serve, being willing to hold no other office than that of school director. He is a member of the Grange and of the Patrons of Husbandry. JAMES H. SHIELDS, formerly sheriff of Mahoning County and one of the representative citizens and capitalists of Youngstown. was born in Canfield township, Mahoning County, Ohio, November 12, 1840, and is a son of Andrew and Jane (Price) Shields. Andrew Shields was born in Boardman township, Mahoning County, Ohio, October 16, 1808, and was a son of Thomas Shields, who was a native of Staunton, Virginia. In 1798, Thomas Shields came to Ohio with a colony of Virginians. He was a miller by trade, and in 1800 he operated what was known as Baird's mill, on the site now occupied by the old Lanterman mill, in Mill Creek park. Although he worked the above mill he lived in Boardman township, and in 1812-14 was the only man exempt from military duty, on account of his occupation, which was considered one of public necessity. He lived to be 70 years of age, dying suddenly of apoplexy, while assisting a neighbor to cut wheat in the harvest field. Andrew Shields. father of James H., was a twin brother of Archibald Shields and one of a family of five children, in which there was a second pair of twins. Andrew Shields was reared in Boardman township and became a large stock dealer and farmer, and in early days drove his own stock to Pittsburg. He was also a member of the firm of Conklin Brothers & Company, large dealers in cattle and drovers, who had business dealings as far east as Albany, New York. Andrew married Jane Price, who was a daughter of James Price, a pioneer of Youngstown township, a sketch of whom will be found in this work. Four children were born of this marriage, namely : James H., Lois M., deceased, who married O. B. Hopkins, and who is survived by one son, Bert, who lives on the Shields home farm in Boardman township; Louisa M., who married W. S. Anderson, a well-known attorney at Youngstown; and Wallace A., who died aged two and one-half years. Andrew Shields purchased a farm in Canfield township, on which his son, James H. was born, but the family subsequently returned to Boardman township when the latter was five years old, and there Andrew' Shields died June 20, 1880, his widow surviving until June, 1901. James H. Shields was reared in Boardman township and secured a good district school education, and in 1859 he taught through that district. From the time he was 12 years of age until he was 19, he drove cattle during the season, and could make three trips from April to September, to Little Valley, New York. When 13 years of age he went to Illinois to purchase 200 head of cattle, riding on horseback and carrying $7,000 in his clothes. He drove them back to Columbia County, New York, going down the very street in Youngstown on which he now lives, safely reaching Hudson, New York, his destination, after being on the road 87 days. He continued to follow the business of a drover for nine years, during the summers, up to the age of 19 as above noted, when he settled down on the farm, but still continued to deal in stock, in which he remains largely interested. He owns five farms, one of 65 acres in Youngstown township, which he is platting into town lots; one of 34o acres in Boardman township which is a combination of three farms; one of 280 656 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY acres in Clay County, Kentucky, and one of 200 acres in Portage County, Ohio. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Mr. Shields was one of the first to enlist in the first company raised at Youngstown, but he was rejected on account of his previously having accidentally broken both arms. Although a fine horseman and accustomed to the saddle from childhood, Mr. Shields has had a number of serious accidents at different times while trying to manage vicious animals. Both arms, one leg, collar bones, and five ribs have been the sufferers on various occasions, but he is still more robust than the average of men, his early out-door life having been very beneficial in building up a fine constitution. On September 16, 1863, Mr. Shields was married to Lois M. Starr, who is a daughter of Russell F. Starr, an old resident of Boardman township. Mr. and Mrs. Shields have had four children, namely : Maud M., who married M. Shively, an attorney residing at Akron; Budd K., who died in 1885, aged 22 years; Mate, a beautiful little girl of eight years, who was accidentally drowned in Mill Creek, July 9, 1873; and Allora C., who manages his father's farm in Boardman township. The last mentioned was married (first) to a Miss Kelly, who at death left one daughter, Marian C., and he married (second) a Mrs. Wooley, and they have two children, Howard W. and Nellie. In 1883, Mr. Shields removed from the farm to Youngstown and resided for a time on Glenwood street. In 1882 he embarked in a meat business at No. 17 Phelps street, which he conducted there until 1885, when he moved to the Andrews block, which was ruined by an explosion of gas, January 7, 1886. He then established himself at No. 129 East Federal street, where he remained until January 1, 1897, when he closed out this business and returned to farming and shipping cattle, but retained his residence at No. 1040 Mahoning avenue, Youngstown. For many years Mr. Shields has been a prominent factor in Democratic politics. He has been a member of the Democratic county committee and has served as chairman and has been active in directing the party's poli cies on many occasions. In 1898 he was elected sheriff of Mahoning County and served until 1900, with the greatest efficiency. His election was remarkable, as Mahoning County has a normal majority on the Republican side. As a citizen he is well and widely known all through Mahoning County and as a cattleman all over this section of Ohio. A portrait of this enterprising citizen fittingly completes this sketch. GEORGE M. BASHAW, formerly one of the prominent citizens and highly esteemed men of Goshen township, was born in Perry County, Ohio, October 28, 1838, and died in Goshen township, February 12, 1894. Be was a son of Raleigh and Hannah (Wirt) Bashaw. The parents of Mr. Bashaw were natives of Georgetown, D. C. For some time after marriage they resided in Culpeper County, Virginia, removing from there to Perry County, Ohio, and some years later to Delaware County, where the father died. Rey. Raleigh Bashaw, the grandfather of the late George M., once was a noted preacher in the Methocli It Episcopal Church, South. George M. Bashaw was reared in Perry and ticking counties. It was from the latter that he enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering Company I, Second Ohio Heavy Artillery, which operated mainly in Tennessee. Mr. Bashaw was honorably discharged from the service, on account of disability, after being out almost one year. He then returned to Licking County, but subsequently removed with his parents for a short time to Delaware County. He had enjoyed common school advantages and taught for some terms in Licking, Delaware and Columbiana counties, and came to Mahoning County from East Rochester in 1872. He settled in section 29, Goshen township, and continued to teach school for a time, but later devoted himself to agricultural pursuits, and to performing the duties of the various township offices to which he was frequently elected. On July 14, 1870. Mr. Bashaw was married to Catherine E. Hole, who was born in AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 657 Carroll County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Lemuel and Unity (Stanley) Hole, the former of whom was born in Carroll and the latter in Columbiana County. On both sides, the ancestors of Mrs. Bashaw came from Virginia. To the above marriage four sons were born, namely : Lemuel R., residing at Salem; Otto-well W., residing in Goshen township; J. Hebert, residing at Salem, and Clyde L., remaining with his mother on the home farm, a tract of more than 50 acres. Mrs. Bashaw was formerly a successful teacher in the public schools in Stark County, having been carefully educated at the Damascus Academy and Mount Union College. She is a member of the Society of Friends. In the death of George M. Bashaw, Goshen township lost one of her best citizens. He was public spirited to a large degree and was a stanch friend of the public schools. His political affiliation was with the Republican party and for several years he served as a trustee of the township and on other occasions as clerk. He was a man of hopeful, helpful presence, one who was loyal to his friends and one whose charity was extended to those in need. CONRAD F. BRENNER, vice-president and treasurer of the Equity Savings & Loan Association, of Youngstown, Ohio, has been a. prominent business man here for more than a quarter of a century and has been a resident of Youngstown for forty years. He was born May 23, 1858, in Columbiana County, Ohio, and is a son of Conrad Michael and Catherine (Siegel) Brenner. Conrad Michael Brenner was born in Baden. Germany, in 1824 and came to America in 1851, shortly afterward locating in Columbiana County, Ohio. He was an educated man and followed the profession of school teacher in various parts of Ohio, and also invented and manufactured the first barometers used in this section of the country. In 1855 he married Catherine Siegel, who was born in Wurtemberg, Germany. In 1872 he came to Youngstown, where he died in 1875. One of the early Abolitionists in this section, he was a supporter of John Brown and took a prominent part in conducting the Underground railway, having headquarters at Salem, Ohio, and personally aided many fugitive slaves to freedom. When the Civil War was precipitated he was anxious to take up arms in the hope of helping to settle the slavery question, but was not accepted as a soldier, on account of physical disability. He then occupied himself in recruiting soldiers, and making Union speeches throughout the North. He recruited several companies, one of which was a company of colored troops, which he took to the Governor of Ohio, who refused to accept them. Thereupon Mr. Brenner shook his fist in the Governor's face and told him the time would come when the state would be glad to accept the services of the colored soldiers. His words were prophetic, for indeed the time soon came when was called upon to recruit another company of colored soldiers whose services were gladly accepted. He was a man of more than usual ability and proved a true and loyal citizen of his adopted country. Conrad F. Brenner remained at home until he was ten years of age and then started out to take care of himself. He had an aunt who was then living in Youngstown and the barefooted boy walked the distance to her home. He soon found employment with John Manning, who conducted a greenhouse, and remained with him for four years, during which time he attended night-school and also took a course in Hall's Commercial College. Following this, Mr. Brenner worked for three years in a milk and cream depot and then was in the grocery business for a year. In 1881 Mr. Brenner entered into partnership with Fred C. Weller in a mercantile venture at Brier Hill, which proved successful, and which was continued until 1885, when Mr. Weller retired. Mr. Brenner continued the business alone for five years longer. In 1890 he disposed of it there and entered into a real estate and insurance business. In 1900 he organized the Equity Savings & Loan As- 658 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY sociation, of which he became the first sec.- retary and, after the first year, vice-president and treasurer. The little barefooted boy of 40, :years since, is one of the city's capitalists and important men. Mr. Brenner has always taken an active part in politics and has been identified with public affairs in Mahoning County to a large degree. 'He has been chairman of both the city and county Democratic executive committees, and in 1890 he was made his party's nominee for the office of county commissioner. He was defeated by only 96 votes in a county usually giving a Republican majority from 1200 to 2000. In 1892, he was elected auditor of Mahoning County by a majority of 1,008 votes and was further honored by a re-; election in 1895. Mr. Brenner has always kept local interests in view and in 1882 he secured the establishment of a post-office at Brier Hill, four years later being appointed postmaster there, by President Cleveland. In 1880, Mr. Brenner was married to Rebecca M. Bayer, daughter of Capt. John 'Bayer, of Youngstown. He is a member of the Lutheran Church. Fraternally, Mr. Brenner belongs to the Odd Fellows, the Elks, the Knights of Pythias and the Tribe of Ben Hur. TILMAN WEAVER, whose farm of 75 acres of fertile land, comprising the old Weaver homestead, is finely located in Beaver township, along the Youngstown and Southern Railway, is one of the modern, progressive and successful agriculturists of this part of Mahoning County, and a representative of a family which was founded here in 1834. Mr. Weaver was born on what is now known as the David Good farm, in Beaver township, Mahoning County, Ohio, October 21, 1855, and is a son of Henry and Anna (Metzler) Weaver. The Weaver family in early clays emigrated from Switzerland to Pennsylvania. Samuel Weaver, grandfather of Tilman, was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, July 10. 1788, and there married Annie Bauman, whose ancestors came from Holland. In 1834 he came to Mahoning County and settled on what has since been known as the Weaver homestead. Here he died February 8. 1852. His wife died September 11, 1843. Their son, Henry Weaver, was born in Berks .County, Pennsylvania, June 24, 1821. By trade a shoemaker, he combined this occupation with farming, spending his life on the present farm, where he died February 3, 1900. His wife, Anna, was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, July 28, 1819, a daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Witmer) Metzler. Her family had come to Ohio before the Weavers, locating south of North Lima. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Weaver had three children—Menno, Tilman and Lydia M. Lydia has never married, but has remained in the old home and keeps house for her brother. She is an admirable woman and is highly esteemed by all throughout the neighborhood. Mr. Weaver has always devoted himself to agricultural pursuits, directing his efforts along modern lines. The land vas mainly cleared by his grandfather and his sons, and he has made many improvements. One of the original buildings, the barn, was erected some 80 years ago, by Adam Wealand and its old logs and timbers are still strong and in good condition. Mr. Weaver has repaired it at various times and has added to its compass, but the old, foundations still remain. Modern conveniences have been introduced into the home and Mr. Weaver and sister keep in touch with their friends through a telephone. The Youngstown & Southern Railway runs along the east boundary of his farm and a stopping point has been arranged, which is called Coal Mines station. With such easily available connections with other points, Mr. and Miss Weaver are able to enjoy the advantages offered by the city and still retain the rural pleasures of the country. Politically, Mr. Weaver is a Republican, but has never consented to hold office. He is a director in the Gilt Edge Creamery at North AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 659 Lima, and is vice-president of the company, and is also a stockholder in the local telephone company. MONROE BEARD, general merchant at New Buffalo, carrying a well assorted line of dry goods, groceries, hardware, boots, shoes, and a few drugs, is one of the leading citizens of Beaver township, and a member of a fine old Mahoning County family. Mr. Beard was born on the old Beard home place, May 8, 1853, and is a son of Jacob and Sophia (Leitsey) Beard. Jacob Beard, grandfather of Monroe, came to America from Wittenberg, Germany, in 1817, settling first in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. In the fall of 1818 he moved with his family to Ohio, locating in Springfield township, Mahoning County, where he purchased a tract of 4o acres of timberland, to w hich he subsequently added 160 more. In 1839 he sold his possessions in that township and bought section 5, Beaver township, which is still known as the Beard section, about all of it being still owned by his descendants. The Lutheran Church to which Monroe belongs, and of which he is a liberal supporter, stands on an acre of the Beard section which was donated to it by Franklin Beard. When the time came for Jacob Beard and wife to retire from business activity, they removed to Canfield, where they passed the remainder of their worthy lives. Their children were : John, Jacob, Susanna, Frederika, Henry, David, Lydia, and Hannah. Jacob Beard resided on his father's farm until his death, at the age of 43 years. His portion of his father's large estate was 25o acres, and he built the house now occupied by G. S. Beard. He married Sophia Leitsey and they had the following children : Catherine, who married Henry Flickinger, and, now with her husband is deceased ; Franklin V., also deceased ; George Sylvanus; Mary Ann, who married Byron Hendricks, residing at New Buffalo ; Jefferson, who died aged 21 years ; Monroe and Cyrus F. Until he was 17 years of age, Mr. Beard attended school and assisted on the home farm. He then went to Allegheny, where he worked for six months at the butcher's trade, being afterwards engaged for three years in a meat business at Youngstown. For the following two years he was associated with a brother in the stock business, after which he took a trip through Woodson and Allen Counties, Kansas. He then returned to Ohio with the intention, however, of going back, but illness preventing, he became again associated in the stock and farming business with his, brother, with whom he continued to be associated for 22 years. Both owned much land of their own and had no difficulty in renting more, and during this long period they operated largely. Mr. Beard owns a farm of 190 acres in Beaver township and one of 64 acres east of Paradise Church. With his brother he purchased 325 acres in Green township, and when the fraternal partnership was dissolved, the brother took this latter purchase as his. portion and Monroe Beard selected his present. farm, coming here in the spring following his second marriage. On this farm he carried on general farming and dairying until November 19, 1903, when he settled at New Buffalo, having purchased the store property in. the month of June previous. On September 12, 1883, Mr. Beard was. married (first) to Alice Starr, who died in Green township, November 23, 1885, she had a son Ai, who died three months previous to her death. Mr. Beard was married (second) December 9, 1886, to Ella R. Heintzelman, who was born in Canfield township, Mahoning County, Ohio, and who is a daughter of George and Hannah (Kaercher) Heintzelman. They have had four children, namely : Olive. M., born November 19; 1887, who is engaged in teaching in Boardman township; Clement J., born November 24, 1888, who died September 3, 1889 ; Hazel M., born August 28, 1890, who is a student at Dana College, at Warren; and Bertha H., born March 4, 1892. Mr. Beard and family attend the services of the Lutheran Church at New Buffalo. Politically he supports Democratic nominees in 660 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY National campaigns, but in local affairs he votes as his judgment dictates. He is a member of the order of Patrons of Husbandry. REV. EDWARD MEARS, rector of St. Columba's Catholic Church, at Youngstown, Ohio, has been an honored and esteemed resident of this city for more than a quarter of a century. Rev. Father Mears was born in Ireland, July 18, 1844, a son of Patrick and Hannah (Earley) Mears. His parents, natives of Ireland, emigrated to America in 1853, settling in Toledo, Ohio, where the father died in 1862. The family in all numbered 12 children. Rev. Edward Mears was primarily educated in the parish schools of Toledo. In 1857 he entered St. Mary's College, at Cleveland, and in 1859 he became a student at Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana, where he was graduated in the class of 1862, and in that year entered the Seminary at Cleveland, to pursue his theological studies. Father Mears was ordained in March, 1869, by the Right Reverend Bishop Rappe, following which he became the Bishop's assistant at the Cathedral, where he served until 1872. He was then placed in charge of the church at Bellevue, in Huron County, Ohio, and also attended to the needs of the people at Clyde. In 1874 he was transferred to Crestline and later was sent to St. Augustine's Church at Cleveland. Two years after he became secretary to the bishop, retaining that position until July, 1877, when he was placed in charge of his present parish. The new St. Columba's Church, which stands on the corner of Wood and Elm streets, Youngstown, is one of the most imposing and beautiful structures in this city. Its congregation is made up of about 90o families, many of these being the most intelligent, cultured, and wealthy in the city. The school attached to St. Columba has 900 pupils and the teachers are 14 sisters of the Ursuline order. Rev. erend Father Mears has two assistants, Father A. A. Crehan and Father James Higginbotham. While Father Mears has devoted himself with Catholic zeal to the best interests of his own people, in his long residence here he has taken a leading part in public movements when the issue meant the advancement and prosperity of the people at large. ANDREW KNESAL, one of Springfield's old and honored citizen's residing on his valuable farm of 136 acres, which he purchased as far back as 1855, was born May 6, 1828, in Wurtemberg, Germany, and is a son of Andrew and Catherine (Schwartz) Knesal. The parents of Mr. Knesal left their native land in 1832, taking passage on a sailing vessel for America. For 81 days the vessel struggled with the rough waters of the Atlantic, but finally landed the weary voyagers at the port of Philadelphia. The captain of the ship had died after leaving the German port and his successor lost his bearings, and it was only by great good fortune that the colonists ever reached the United States. The first winter after their arrival, was spent by the Knesal family at Urey, Pennsylvania, from which point they started, in the spring of 1833, for Springfield township, stopping first at New Springfield. The father had but little capital and was not prepared to purchase land, but rented the farm now owned by A. Haller, on which he died in 1838. his wife having passed away in the previous fall. They had brought four children with them to Springfield township and one was born after settling here. Andrew Knesal still recalls the long wagon journey from Urey, Pennsylvania, to Springfield township. He was only about five years old but the various unusual experiences made a lasting impression on his childish mind. He remembers wearily tramping behind the wagon. over the rough roads. through the wild country. and doubtless was well pleased when AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 663 the journey came to an end. The surrounding country was but partially cleared and he remembers seeing a huge bear cross the farm, during- his father's life-time, the latter pursuing but not succeeding in killing it. The death of both father and mother within five years after settling in Springfield township, broke up the family and each member was obliged to look more or less after his own interests. Andrew secured work in a distiller), which was operated just over the Pennsylvania line, where he remained for two and one-half years, and he is justly proud of the fact that he never learned to drink liquor, although coming into daily contact with it. As soon as he was able he left the distillery and learned the trade of shoemaker, at Petersburg. For 17 years he worked at this trade, a part of the time at Pittsburg, where he was considered an expert maker of fine shoes, which he made a specialty. That was before the days of shoe factories. In August, 1853, Mr. Knesal purchased his present farm of 136 acres, which was not improved. Two years later he built the residence which he still occupies, one of the substantial old buildings, fashioned of seasoned timber which withstand the stress of wind and storm for many years. It is a comfortable; attractive old home, no change ever having been made in its original plan except as to the windows and veranda. The land had all been cleared when he took possession and he soon had it under a fine state of cultivation. It was formerly the property of Judge James Wallace. On October 9, 1836, Andrew Knesal was married to Sarah E. Moore, who was born near Enon Valley, Lawrence County. Pennsylvania, about three miles from Petersburg. Mrs. Knesal's parents were David and Jane (Smith) Moore, belonging to old families of that region. Her paternal grandparents were Andrew and Margaret (Banks) Moore, and her maternal grandparents were Thomas and Mary Smith. The Smiths came originally from Ireland and settled first in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, removing subsequently to Lawrence County. Grandfather Smith had an exciting adventure with a bear in his young days which cost him the loss of a toe. The brute attacked him. in a small clearing and to escape it he climbed a sapling but was not able to draw his feet high enough to keep them out of the way of the animal, who chewed off the toe before assistance arrived. To Andrew Knesal and wife were born children, namely : Mary Jennie, residing in Springfield township, who married J. W. Robinson, and has five children, Emma, Andrew, James, Tyrell Moore and Helen Dunlap; Stanley, who died aged 26 years; James A., residing at Petersburg engaged in farming, who married Marcia Koch, and has two children, Emeline and Edith Leora ; Icephena, who died at the age of Seven years; Emma Leora, who died aged four years; Charles Edward, who died aged one week ; Alberta Viola, who died at the age of three months; Frank Edwin, who died aged two years; Willis Herbert, who died aged seven years; and John and George Evelyn, who are members of the prominent hardware firm of Knesal Brothers, at Petersburg. On October 9, 1906, the surviving. children and many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Knesal gathered at their hospitable home to assist them in celebrating the anniversary of their Golden Wedding. It was a most enjoyable occasion which will long be remembered by all who were permitted to be present. REV. JOHN KLUTE, pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Youngstown, has been in charge here since August 11, 1883, a term of nearly 24 years. Father Klute was born October 17, 1847, in Westphalia, Germany, and he is a son of Henry and Gertrude Klute. He is the only one of his parents' family of seven children to reside in America. Father Klute completed his collegiate course at Cologne before coming to America. He reached Cleveland, Ohio, in June, 1870, and entered St. Mary's Seminary, where for 664 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY four years he pursued the studies which fitted him for the priesthood, being ordained August 8, 1874, by Bishop R. Gilmore. For the following six years his duties were confined to various missions in Paulding, Defiance, Ottawa and Sandusky counties. In May, 188o, he was placed in charge of the churches at Hubbard and Vienna, Trumbull County, where he continued in parochial work until August 11, 1883, when he was transferred to Youngstown. Since Father Klute took charge of St. Joseph's parish, many remarkable changes have come about. The beautiful church on the corner of Wick and Rayen avenues has been built, a fine school edifice has been constructed, and in material as well as in spiritual matters St. Joseph's has kept pace with churches of the same size in other cities, and is a credit to pastor, people and town. The parish is made up of 240 families. In June, 1900, Father Klute bought Dr. Mathew's residence for a parsonage. His former parsonage on Nick avenue was given to the Sisters of Notre Dame, who in September, 1903, took charge of St. Joseph's Parochial School, which now has 280 pupils. Personally Father Klute is known to almost every resident of Youngstown, a large number of whom belong to his congregation. He is held in the highest esteem by Catholics and Protestants alike. A portrait of Father Klute is published in connection with this sketch. ELSON P. BOYLE, whose carefully cultivated and well improved farm of Too acres is situated one and one-quarter miles west of Poland, in Boardman township, is a prosperous farmer of this section and a man who owes his success to his own efforts. He was born in the province of Munster, Ireland, November To, 1846, and is a son of Robert and Katherine (Berry) Boyle. The parents of Mr. Boyle spent their lives in Ireland, where the father was a small farmer. They had five children, namely : Lena, who came to America, but afterwards returned to her native land where she now resides; Robert, who is engaged in farming the old home place in Ireland ; Elson P., whose name heads this sketch, and Margaret and Catherine, both of whom remained in the old country. Elson P. Boyle was about 18 years of age when he decided to leave home and try his fortunes across the Atlantic, in America. Those who know the Irish character well, need not be told that it was a wrench to leave behind the old parents and brother and sisters. The youth landed in the city of New York with little capital in money, but he was robust and industrious and felt sure that if opportunity was given him he could prove his usefulness to any farmer. For a number of years he remained in the state of New York, working on many farms, but after his marriage, desiring to acquire land for himself, he turned his attention to the west. For a short time he was employed on a farm near Cleveland, Ohio, from which he came to Mahoning County. Assisted by his frugal wife he succeeded in saving enough to purchase enough to purchase a small farm of 25 acres, in Canfield township, and in a short time, purchased another parcel of land, both of which he subsequently sold to advantage. During a residence of six years in Canfield village, he made many friends. He later invested in land in Boardman township, which he sold, and in 1896 he bought his present farm of zoo acres from the Heasley heirs. This is a good property and when he came into possession was improved with house and barn. He takes a great deal of interest and successfully carries on general farming, and with the assistance of his capable wife, operates a first-class dairy. The milk of 11 cows is all disposed of at Youngstown. While living in the State of New York, Mr. Boyle was married to Mary Flarity, a native of Ireland, and daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Dolen) Flarity. The father of Mrs. Boyle was a small farmer in Ireland, where he died when she was a child. Later she accompanied her mother to America, the latter dying in New York, in 1901, aged 75 AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 665 years. There were seven children in the Flarity family, as follows : Edward; Margaret, who married Thomas Galliger; John; Catherine, deceased, who married John Horigon ; Nora, who died young; Mary ; and Delia, who married John Cohen. Mr. and Mrs. Boyle have had five children, namely : Lena who married John Kane, the well-known detective of Youngstown, and has six children—William, Mary, Margaret, John, Madeline and Helen; Edward, who is engaged in railroad work; Margaret, who died young; Mary Florence, who died on Christmas Day, 1905, aged 22 years; and Ethel, who graduated from the Boardman High School, in 1905. Mr. and Mrs. Boyle and family belong to St. Columba's Catholic Church at Youngstown. He has never taken any active interest in politics and votes independently. He is a fine type of the self-made man, one who has made his own way in the world and has won what he owns by hard and honest toil. MADISON J. POWERS, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Austintown township, residing on his father's estate, four miles southwest of Youngstown, is a large shipper and buyer of cattle and is engaged also in a wholesale butchering business. Mr. Powers was born on his father's farm in Vienna township, Trumbull County, Ohio, December 20, 1867, and is a son of Wilson and Catherine (Stewart) Powers. Abraham Powers, the great-grandfather of Madison J., was the founder of the family in Ohio. He was of Scotch-Irish extraction. At a very early clay he settled in the deep woods that then covered the site of Youngstown, where he cleared up a farm and spent the remainder of his life. His children were : Isaac, Abraham, Madison, Milton, Nancy and Mary. Madison Powers, grandfather of Madison J., was born on the farm his father had wrested from the forest, which he assisted to de- - 35 - velop. With his brother Milton he became a stock dealer, and on many occasions they drove their cattle over the mountains and sold them in eastern markets. Later he moved to Trumbull County, where he acquired so much property that at the time of his death, when aged 85 years, he was the largest land-owner in that county. He married Elizabeth Wilson and they had four children, namely : Washington, deceased; Wilson, father of Madison J.; Albert, residing at Warren, Ohio; and Mary Jane, deceased, who was the wife of John Hults. Wilson Powers, father of Madison J., was born in Hubbard township, Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1844, and now lives retired, on his wife's farm, in Fowler township, Trumbull County. Like his father he became a successful dealer in live stock and in his early manhood often drove his herds over the mountains to sell. After the death of his father, he purchased the old home place of 417 acres, which he subsequently sold to M. C. Wick. Later he bought the farm of 175 acres, in Austintown township, on which his sons now reside, its former owner having been Jefferson Moherman. He also purchased 25o acres of land in Enon Valley. Wilson Powers married Catherine Stewart, a daughter of Armstrong and Isabel Stewart, who were pioneer settlers of Vienna and Liberty townships, Trumbull County. Seven children were born to Wilson Powers and wife; Madison J., whose name begins this sketch; Emma, who married W. Shoaff ; Floyd, who resides on a part of his brother Madison's farm; and Clinton, Etta, Walter and Mary, all of whom are deceased. Madison J. Powers was educated in the district schools, and was thoroughly trained by his father in the stock business. He was 17 years old when the family moved to Enon Valley, and he resided there until after his marriage. He then took charge of his grandfather's farm of i000 acres, in Trumbull County, remaining there until the tragic death of the latter, which resulted from an attack made on him by a vicious member of one of the herds. Mr. Powers still continued to raise stock on this place for some five more years, 666 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY coming to his present farm after it was purchased by his father. He buys his cattle in Chicago, and ships a car load about every three weeks, doing a large amount of business. On February 28, 1887, Mr. Powers was married to Emma E. Swisher, who was born August 27, 1868, in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Powers is a daughter of Philip and Martha (Sampson) Swisher, whose children were as follows : Herbert, deceased; John and Ira. of whom there is no special mention ; Bird, who married William Patterson; Harriet, who married Frank Bush; Mary, who married Wiley Kennedy; Laura, who married Ralph White; Frederick, deceased, and Emma, who is the eldest. Mr. and Mrs. Powers have nine children, namely : John, deceased ; Anna, Grace, Pearl, Jean, Walter, Mary; Mabel, deceased ; and Clara. Mr. Powers is one of the representative Democrats of this section and has served in various local offices, for three years being trustee of Hubbard township, Trumbull County, and also assessor. He is a member of Lodge No. 112, Knights of Pythias, at Coal-berg, and of the Eagles, at Youngstown. EDWARD MILLER, who owns a valuable farm in Springfield township, devotes about 135 acres to general farming, under the best conditions, having a well cultivated and finely improved property. Mr. Miller was born February 22, 1857, in Poland township, Ha-honing County, Ohio, and is a son of James D. and Susan (Kriner) Miller. James D. Miller, father of Edward, was born at Downingtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania, August 24, 1820, and died October 2, 1890, aged 70 years, one month and eight days. He had reached his majority when he accompanied his father, James Miller, to Poland township, where the latter purchased the 100-acre farm now owned by Cyrus Detcheon, who bought it when Mr. Miller was ready to move to Youngstown, where he died. After coming to America, James Miller located at Philadelphia and for a time drove a four-horse stage over the route between Philadelphia and Pittsburg. James Miller had the following children : Alexander, who died in Youngstown; Mrs. Margaret McGee, who also died in Youngstown ; Mrs. Mary Holton, who died in Niles ; Mrs. Jane Knott, the only survivor, who resides at Rock Island, Illinois ; and James D. James D. Miller had but few educational opportunities in his youth, but through reading and observation, he became a well informed man, having a specially good knowlege of history. He lived in different sections, on various farms, leading an agricultural life. After serving in the 100-day service in the Civil. War, as a member of Company D, 155th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, he returned to his farm in Poland township, where he remained until 1867, removing then to Lowellville, where he lived until 1870. Thence he moved to Hillsville, Pennsylvania, afterwards to a farm near Lowellville, and thence to a farm near Mt. Jackson, Pennsylvania. In 1890 he moved to a farm near New Springfield on which he lived until his death. He was twice married, (first) to Elizabeth McGowan, by whom he had three children, namely : Alexander, who died at the age of three years; Jennie, deceased, who married Horace Brown; and Elizabeth, who married Barnabas Reed, residing two miles south of Lowellville. Mr. Miller married (second) Susan Kriner, who was born October 14, 1827, and who died April 2, 1893, aged 65 years, five months and 19 days. The children of this marriage were : Clara, deceased, who resided at Fayette, Ohio; Charles G., an instructor in the High School, at Archibald, Ohio, and owner of a fine farm and home in Fulton Couty, Ohio; Edward, whose name begins this sketch ; Sophia, who married Cyrus Martin, residing at Hillsville. Pennsylvania ; Frederick, who died aged three years ; George W., AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 667 residing at Penn Station, Pennsylvania ; and Fannie, who married J. S. White, residing in Columbiana. Edward Miller was about ten years of age when his parents moved from Poland township, where he had already made a good record at school. Later he attended the Normal School at Worthington. He remained at home until he was 31 years of age, assisting his father in the management and operation of the farm. Prior to purchasing land of his own, he rented for three years near Lowellville and one year near Mt. Jackson, and then bought 8o acres in Springfield township. To this he added a piece of over eight acres and subsequently 47 acres more. In 1896, before coming to his present farm, he removed to New Springfield, and later spent three months in Florida, settling on his present place in the following year. He made many improvements in what was previously a good property, with a comfortable residence and a barn 32 by 56 feet in dimensions. The latter he enlarged, making the dimensions 86 by 70 feet, and it is now one of the handsomest and most substantial structures of its kind in Springfield township. On October 18, 1888, Mr. Miller was married to Permilla Jane Martin, who was born near Middlesex, Mercer County, Pennsylvania, February 25, 1859. Her parents, Thomas and Elizabeth (Robinson) Martin, moved -to Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, in 1861, and both died near Hillsville, on a farm now owned by their son. Hugh Martin, the grandfather of Mrs. Miller, came from Ire- land, settling at Mauch Chunk, Pennsylvania, from which point he moved to North Beaver township, near Mount Jackson, about 1829. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Miller were James and Jennie (Lusk) Robinson, who were married in 1808 and settled on a farm near Mount Jackson, Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, where they died. The parents of Mrs. Miller had six children,' she being the youngest. The others were : John S., residing, at New Castle, Pennsylvania; James R., residing at New Castle ; Mary S., deceased, who married John W. Gailey ; Cyrus L., residing on the old homestead at Hillsville ; Anna E., deceased, who was the wife of William T. Gilmore. Both Mr. and Mrs. Miller take an interest in old and historic objects, particularly when connected with their own family history. They possess several valuable relics which would be gladly accepted by any museum. One of these is a sugar bowl, of old design, which was a part of grandmother Robinson's wedding outfit, and the granddaughter values it very highly. Another relic in the family is an old dish, shaped in the form of a duck, which is of an age difficult to compute. It was purchased of some Swedish emigrants on the docks at that far-away date when the great city of Philadelphia had but three houses on her water front. Another very interesting object in the Miller home is a mounted snow-white owl, measuring 63 inches from tip to tip of wings which was captured by Mr. Miller about a year ago. This magnificent specimen, now almost extinct in this section, Mr. Miller has preserved under glass, and it is a beautiful and very interesting ornament. In politics, Mr. Miller is a Democrat. Both he and his wife are valued members of the Baptist Church at Hillsville, Pennsylvania. J. R. THOMAS SONS, proprietors of an immense wholesale flour and dairy products business, occupy spacious quarters on the corner of Holmes and Commerce streets, Youngstown. The firm is made up of the two sons of the late J. R. Thomas, B. Frank and Arnold D. B. FRANK THOMAS was born in Portage County, Ohio, and was educated in the common schools, and at Mount Union College, where he took a commercial course. After three years spent in teaching he went into his father's business, in 1887. The business had been established by the elder Thomas in 1865, in Paris township, Portage County, and was confined exclusively to cheese. On June 13, 1887, the founder moved his business to Youngstown, at the same time enlarging his facilities and including other commodities, mainly flour. The business was carefully man- 668 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY aged by Mr. J. R. Thomas, and has been as carefully conducted by the two sons, and stands now at the head of its line in Youngstown. Until the death of J. R. Thomas, in 1891, it was conducted under his name, but was then changed to J. R. Thomas Sons which style is still continued. B. Frank Thomas is a member of the Board of Health of Youngstown, although he takes no active interest in politics. He is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Credit Men's Association. His fraternal relations are with the Free Masons. ARNOLD D. THOMAS, the other member of the wholesale firm of J. R. Thomas Sons, was born also in Portage County, and was graduated from Mount Union College in 1891, immediately afterward entering the firm. He has done more in the organization of the Youngstown Chamber of Commerce than any other citizen, is a member of its insurance committee, and formerly served as president of the Credit Men's Association. He is treasurer of the Good Roads Association and he is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. Both members of the firm of J. R. Thomas Sons are enterprising, progressive men, public spirited to a large degree and most excellent citizens. JOHN A. SHANK, a well known resident of Beaver township, Mahoning County, Ohio, was born February 24, 1860, in this township and is a son of John and Maria (Barb) Shank. John Shank, also a native of Beaver township, was a son of John Shank, who came from Rockingham County, Virginia, at an early period and settled on a farm of 50 acres in section 16, Beaver township, residing there until his death. John Shank, father of John A. resided on that farm all his life. He married Maria Barb, a daughter of Abraham Barb, a resident of Trumbull County. He died over forty years. ago at the age of 37 years. His widow still resides at East Lewistown. They reared a family of three children—John A., the subject of this sketch ; William, a resident of Geauga County, Ohio; and Margaret, who married William Sahli and resides in Pennsylvania. John A. Shank was reared in Beaver township on his father's farm and attended the township schools. He now owns and operates a small farm at East Lewistown. He was united in marriage to Diana Cummings, who was a daughter of Noah and Sarah (Holdreed) Cummings, and a native of Beaver township. Mrs. Shank is now deceased. Her parents resided at East Lewistown. Two children, Edna and Essler, both residing at home, were born of this marriage. Politically Mr. Shank is a Republican and has served his township as supervisor and constable. He is a member of the Reformed Church. W. H. KALE, president of the Board of County Commissioners, of Mahoning County, Ohio, resides on his fine farm of 111 acres in the vicinity of Berlin Center. Ben township. Mr. Kale was born in 1860, in Berlin township, Mahoning County, Ohio. and is a son of Andrew Kale. The father of Mr. Kale was born in 1839, in Springfield township, Mahoning County, and is a son of Andrew Kale, who was one of the earliest settlers in this county and his father, Martin Kale, was one of the pioneers of Berlin township. Andrew Kale, father of W. H. Kale, entered the army during the Civil War, in answer to the last call of President Lincoln, becoming a member of Company G, 155th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained in the service until the close of the war. Although he returned alive,. he is still suffering from the effects of his exposure. W. H. Kale was reared on his father's farm in Berlin township, and was educated in the district schools. After his marriage he purchased a small farm of 29 acres to which he subsequently added until now he owns 111 acres of the best land in Mahoning County. It is well improved and here Mr. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 671 Kale has carried on general farming and stock-raising and has been also an extensive dealer, manufacturer and shipper of lumber. He has always taken an active interest in political matters and is identified with the Republican party. He has served on different occasions as a member of the county central committee and other organizations. In the fall of 1902 he was elected a member of the board of county commissioners and was re-elected in the fall of 1905, with a handsome majority of 3,466 votes, this being 2,266 more than at his first election. In many capacities he has served Berlin township for four years was constable, for six years a member of the school board and for six years trustee. For a like period he has served as a delegate to state conventions of his party, and is an indefatigable worker for it. For the past 23 years Mr. Kale has been a member of Canfield Lodge, No. 155, of the order of Odd Fellows, this lodge being the second in financial standing in the state, and he is past chancellor in the order of Knights of Pythias, and belongs also to a number of purely social organizations. In 1886, Mr. Kale was married to Ella Harman, who is a daughter of David Harman, a prosperous farmer of Berlin township, who was born on the banks of the Mahoning river, in 1841, and is a son of one of the earliest settlers of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Kale have one child, Addie M. JAMES NEILSON. In the varied industries which have served to make Youngstown the great business center of this part of the state, no one man had more to do with their firm founding than had the late James Neilson. He was born in December, 1842, at Glasgow, Scotland. The mother of James Neilson died when he was an infant and this possibly weakened home ties and he grew to young manhood cherishing the desire to come to America. When 24 years old he joined his uncle in the vicinity of Columbus, Ohio, and his subsequent life was passed in this state, to which he became as closely allied as if he had been native born. The first position held by him in the state of his adoption was that of bookkeeper at the Powers coal mine. Later he secured a position in one of the furnaces operated in connection with the coal mines and in 1866, he entered the employ of Andrews Brothers, remaining with them as bookkeeper and manager of the blast furnace at Haselton, for some ten years. His faithful services were recognized in 1880 when he was taken in as a member of this important firm. Seven years later, upon the incorporation of the Andrews Brothers Company, he was elected vice-president and general manager of their mines and great iron plant, a position he continued to fill until his death in 1893. Mr. Neilson from the beginning of his career had displayed those rare business qualities which could not fail to inspire confidence and possessed the foresight which made his opinions and plans of the greatest value. In 1889 he organized the Youngstown Bridge Company and became its president; he was also president of the Mahoning Ore Company, which operated mines in Minnesota; he was a stockholder and director in the Youngstown Car Manufacturing Company; a stockholder in the Morris Hardware Company, the G. M. McKelvey Company, the Dollar Savings & Trust Company, the Commercial National Bank and the Ohio Steel Company. In 1892, when the Mahoning Ore Company was organized, it was the expressed wish of the late H. 0. Bonnell that its vast interests should be entrusted to the capable hands of Mr. Neilson. Probably the faithful performance of this wish, considered almost sacred by Mr. Neilson, was the real cause of his death, as it was while visiting the various ore properties that he was prostrated by an attack of influenza from which he never really recovered, and his death occured on May 24, 1893, of heart failure. His loss was deeply deplored not only at Youngstown, where as man and citizen he was honored and esteemed, but all over the country where the firm, sure 672 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY control of his hand had been felt in so many industries and whose upright character lent value to them. A vital factor in Mr. Neilson's many enterprises was the employment of labor, and that so little friction occurred among the hundreds in his employ was mainly' because of his attitude toward them. Although a strict employer, expecting every man to perform his full duty, he was a just one and readily recognized superior value or talent and rewarded it. He was universally beloved by those in his employ and no more sincere expressions of sorrow were heard on the occasion of his death than from those who worked in his mills and mines and foundries. It was no question with them of capital and labor, simply one of man and man, and it was so because Mr. Neilson had made it so. Mr. Neilson was married in 1866 to Eliza E. Gibson, a daughter of P. D. Gibson, who was an early pioneer of Mahoning County, coming here with his parents at the age of 14 years. His wife became a resident of .the county at nine years of age. After their marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Gibson settled near Gibson Springs, where they had a farm of about 200 acres. Mrs. Neilson by a former marriage had two children, namely : L. Lola, deceased, and R. D., who is a specialist in medical practice at Youngstown. For many years Mr. Neilson was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church and during his long enjoyment of its spiritual assistance he was a ready and willing contributor to its needs. He was charitable to a large degree and was particularly interested in work of the Young Men's Christian Association. His fraternal connections included all the higher branches of Masonry, Hillman Lodge, No. 481, F. & A. M., of which he was past master ; Youngstown Chapter, No. 93 St. John's Commandery, K. T., No. 20 ; Alcoran Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Cleveland, Ohio, and of Lake Erie Consistory of Scottish Rite Masons. Mr. Neilson left a large estate which is capably managed by his heirs. The beautiful family home is at No. 318 Wick avenue, that delightful, spacious thoroughfare of Youngstown on which the city's finest mansions stand. The publishers take pleasure in presenting a portrait of Mr. Neilson in connection with this biographical outline. JOHN S. MITCHELL, the manager of Twin Oaks Farm, a valuable property consisting of some 50 acres, situated in Youngstown township, is a prominent and reliable citizen of this section. He was born in Canada, April 22, 1850, a son of John and Elizabeth (Forrest) Mitchell. The parents of Mr. Mitchell were born, reared, educated and married in Scotland. The father carried on farming to some degree, in his native land, where he remained until after his marriage and the birth of one child, when he emigrated to Canada, locating in Toronto, Ontario, where John S. Mitchell was born. He afterwards moved to Seneca township, Haldemand County, where he bought a farm of 100 acres. John S. Mitchell spent his boyhood in Canada and attended the district schools near his home. When he was about 15 years of age his parents came to the United States, settling in Hartford, Trumbull County. Ohio, at the home of a relative, with whom they remained until the following spring. They then rented a farm near Clarksville, Pennsylvania, where they remained several years, when they removed to and settled on a farm near Cedar Corners, Trumbull County. One winter was spent there, but in the succeeding spring Mr. Mitchell removed to the John Kimmel farm in Youngstown township. Here the family lived for five years, and then the father bought a small place in Liberty township, Trumbull County. While living on the above-mentioned farm John S. Mitchell was married to Mary Armstrong, who was born August 20, 1851, and who died of bronchial consumption, August 19, 1900, leaving no children. She was a AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS- 673 daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Robb) Armstrong, and a woman of rare qualities of mind and heart. After marriage John S. Mitchell moved to the Armstrong farm, which was then occupied by the widowed mother of Mrs. Mitchell, and her sister, Miss Nancy A. Armstrong. Mr. Mitchell has resided here and has operated the farm ever since. It originally contained 106 acres, but all but 50 acres have been disposed of advantageously. Mr. Mitchell carries on .farming and dairying on this place, as he also does on his own farm of 50 acres, which is situated in Coitsville township. In his political views Mr. Mitchell is a Republican, and has been elected a delegate to many Republican conventions. He has served for ten years as a member of the school board, was appointed its first president under the new law, and is serving his third term as such. He is a prominent Odd Fellow, belonging to the lodge at Youngstown, to Phoenix Encampment and the Canton Royal. He belongs also to the auxiliary order of Rebeccas and to the Home Guards of America. Miss Nancy A. Armstrong, who owns the Twin Oaks Farm, which her brother-in-law, John S. Mitchell, has managed for many years, was born March 8, 1844, at Youngstown, Ohio, and is one of the three children born to Samuel and Nancy (Robb) Armstrong. Of her two sisters, Rebecca died in infancy, and Mary, the wife of John S. Mitchell, died, as above noted, in 1900. The Armstrong family is one well-known and highly respected all over Mahoning County, and was established in Youngstown township by the father of Miss Armstrong, prior to his first marriage. Samuel Armstrong was born in Pennsylvania and died on Twin Oaks Farm in February, 1853. He was a son of David and Sallie (Harris) Armstrong, the former of whom was born in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, in 1747, and died in 1811. David had ten children, namely : . Thomas, George, David, Rebecca, Polly, Roland, Archibald, Samuel, Betsey and Anna. Samuel was a builder and contractor and opened one of the first brickyard at Youngstown, and the product of his kilns entered into the construction of many of the substantial old buildings of the city. He continued active in business until 1847, when he disposed of his interests at Youngstown and purchased a farm of z00 acres, situated in Youngstown township, paying $2,000 for this property, and immediately began improving it. Samuel Armstrong was married (first) to Jane Erwin, by whom he had five children, as follows : Henry, born in July, 1830, married Harriet Murry, and they had one son, Henry ; Henrietta died in childhood ; Rachel, residing at Youngstown, is the widow of Thomas Jacobs, and her three children are : Rev. Dutton C. Jacobs, of Detroit; Rosella, deceased, who was the wife of George Gerwig ; and Thomas A. Jacobs, cashier of the Mahoning National Bank at Youngstown; Sarah, who married L. J. Jacobs of Youngs town, died and left four children—W. Lloyd, Mrs. Carrie Heasley, Elmer E. and Mark; William, who married Sarah Kimmel, had two children, Luella, who married William Frease of Youngstown, and Cora, who married Robert Stevenson. Samuel Armstrong was married (second) in June, 1843, to Mrs. Nancy (Robb) Loveland, who was the widow of Amos Loveland. She owned a farm at Weathersfield, which she sold in order to assist in the purchase and development of Twin Oaks Farm, which she thus named on account of the noble twin oaks which particularly marked the farm, one of which still stands-and shelters the cool spring in the yard. She was born August 16, 1807, and died April 10, 1894. The old home in which Miss Armstrong has spent the greater part of her quiet, happy, useful life, is of historic interest, the house being one of the oldest in the township. It still stands, fully one hundred years old, having long outlived its builders. It was replaced as a residence by a modern structure, in 1904. It is beautifully located, and no traveler through this region, who has any artistic perceptions, ever passes it without stopping to enjoy the picture of rural attractiveness. Nat- 674 - HISTORY OF MAHONING COUNTY urally this old place is very dear to its owner, for in and around it are clustered the memories of a half century. Miss Armstrong is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. JACOB BOOHECKER, one of the substantial men of Smith township, residing on his excellent farm of 150 acres, situated in section 4, was born in Unity township, Columbiana County, Ohio, January 5, 1839, and is a son of Peter and Elizabeth (Switzer) Boohecker. The grandfather of Jacob Boohecker, also Jacob Boohecker, was born in Pennsylvania and settled with his family in Columbiana County, Ohio, when his son Peter was a child of four years, and there he lived until his death. Peter Boohecker was reared on the pioneer farm in Unity township, where he lived until after his marriage and the birth of some of his children, when he removed to Mahoning County and settled on the farm in Smith township, which his son Jacob now owns. At that time the land was covered with heavy timber and there were but few settlers in this neighborhood. The first home in Smith township was a two-room plank house, which served for many years. Peter Boohecker died in 1884. Three of his children still survive, as follows : Jacob, named for his grandfather ; Daniel, residing in Smith township; and Adam, residing at Sebring, Ohio. Jacob Boohecker spent his boyhood and early youth on his father's farm, where he was thoroughly trained in all agricultural work. When the Civil War came on the country, he immediately became interested and in the second year of its progress, on August 11, 1862, he enlisted in the service of his country, becoming a member of Company H, 105th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was attached to the Army of the Cumberland. Mr. Boohecker saw much hard service before he was honorably discharged, June 3, 1865, and can recall from personal observation, many of the most terrible battles of the great conflict. He participated in the battles of Perryville, Missionary Ridge, Jonesboro, Milton, Chickamauga, the siege of Chattanooga, and marched with Sherman on that memorable trip to the sea. Mr. Boohecker has the record of being at all times a brave man and obedient soldier. After the close of his army service, he returned to peaceful pursuits, first engaging in the mercantile business at Columbiana. and then came to Smith township, where he followed farming, but subsequently resumed merchandising, settling for this purpose at Beloit, where he resided for sixteen years, after which he was interested for several years in a hotel business at Mt. Union. In 1895 he settled permanently on his farm in Smith township, where his wife owns also a farm of fifty acres. Mr. Boohecker was married to Sarah E. Woods, who was born in Columbiana County, and they have two surviving children : James P., residing at Salem, and Mary L., who married Walter L. Miller, residing in Smith township. Two daughters are deceased : Luella and Loretta J. Politically Mr. Boohecker is identified with the Republican party. He is one of the leading members of the Presbyterian Church at North Benton, Ohio. MRS. SUSANNAH R. DUNN. widow of the late William Dunn, residing on section 33, Green township, on her well-improved farm of 72 acres, is one of the most highly esteemed ladies of this section. Mrs. Dunn was born at Franklin Square, Columbiana County, Ohio, September 25, 1841, and is a daughter of Thomas and Christena (Row) Post. The father of Mrs. Dunn was a native of an eastern state, and he came to Columbiana County, with an aunt, Mrs. Susan Zimmerman, who was an early settler. The mother of Mrs. Dunn was born near Wellsville, Ohio, and taught school for a time in Columbiana County. Mrs. Dunn was seven years of age when