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GUILFORD TOWNSHIP.
JOSEPH L. BECK. farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. River Styx ; was born in Northampton Co.. Penn., Feb. 10. 1818. His father. Ludwig Beck. was a native of that county. being a son of Jacob Beck. who came there from Germany when in his youth. The country was then under English dominion, and the family were often compelled to flee from their homes when the country was harassed by the Indians. Ludwig secured his father's farm. and, being an energetic man, possessed at his death a fine property. His companion through life was a native of Bucks Co., Penn.. her maiden name being Elizabeth Shuch. He died July 22. 1841: and his wife May 18. 1876. At the death of his father. Joseph commenced doing for himself, and afterward he and his brother secured the old homestead. He afterward sold his interest to his brother, and. coming to Medina Co.. Ohio. in the summer of 1850, bought the farm on which he now lives. The following April, he moved here, and has since been one of the leading farmers of the county, having done more, perhaps, than any other person for the improvement of stock in Medina Co. He brought the first Cotswold sheep here in the spring of 1853. and is one of the leading breeders in other kinds of stock, such as horses, cattle and hogs. That he is one of the honorable and conscientious breeders, is known to all, the herd books of Ohio bearing us out in the testimony. He is a stockholder in the Medina County Agricultural Society, and one of the leading fair men of Northern Ohio. He was married. in October. 1841. to Eliza Long. She died Dec. 24, 1874. leaving seven children—Sarah, Catharine Jane, Maria, Mary, Jacob, Josephine and George. Jan. 10, 1878. he was united to Sarah Berry, of Northampton Co., Penn, where she was born Oct. 30, 1836. The family are all members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been Elder for the last fifteen years. He is a Republican.
ROBERT BELL, farmer ; P. 0. Seville. Among the early pioneers of Medina Co. who had to forego the luxuries, and, in many instances, the necessaries of life in order to securehomes for their families, we take pleasure in mentioning the Bell family. who were among the first settlers of Guilford Township. The first of whom we have any record is William H. Bell, who was born in Vermont, and from there accompanied the family Cortland Co., N. Y.. where he was married to Miss Harriet Owen, who was born in Massachusetts. leaving there a few years previous to her marriage. In the year 1819, they came to Medina Co.. and, being among the first adventurers, had to endure many hardships before their farm became sufficiently productive to render their situation one to be envied. Mr. Bell died in July, 1829, leaving a family of five children. four of whom grew to maturity and are now living. Mrs. Bell was again married, to John Bell. a brother to her first husband. and, in 1844, removed to Wisconsin, where she passed the rest of her life. Robert. one of the sons, was born Sept. 28. 1827, and followed the family fortunes until of age. when he returned to his native county of Medina, and has since been one of the respected citizens. During the winter of 1850-51, he clerked in a store in Medina, and. then coming to Seville. followed the same vocation until 1863. when he went to farming, and is one of the successful tillers of the soil. He was married. April 17, 1854, to Margaret, daughter of Isaac and Mary L. (Russell) Gray. She was born March 20, 1828. in Salem. Washington Co., N. Y., and came to this county in the year 1831. Their union has proved a happy and prosperous one, and has been crowned with two children—Elbert J. and Helen M. Death, the common enemy of alL has visited the family and robbed it of one of its brightest ornaments. the daughter being taken from them Aug. 21, 1879, when in her 19th year. The son is associated with his father in the management of the homestead, and already possesses a farm of his own. Mr. Bell cast his first ballot for John P. Hale, and is a strong adherent of the Republican party.
PLATT E. BEACH, physician and surgeon, Seville ; is the eldest son of Dr. A. P. Beach, and was born Sept. 13, 1855. in Wayne Co.,
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Ohio. He received a good common-school education. and, when only 15 years old, commenced clerking in a store. He followed this business for three years, when he resolved to adopt the medical profession, and entered the office of his father. Here he was a careful student, and, less than two years later, he entered the medical institute at Pittsburgh, Penn., where he remained about one and one-half years, and then attended the University of Michigan nearly the same length of time. Wishing to complete the course at an Eastern institution, he entered the Long Island College and Hospital, from which he matriculated June 21. 187 7. Contrary to the general rule, he located in his native village, and soon established a lucrative practice, which he yet retains. He was married. April 18, 1878, Miss Sue Loveless becoming his wife. Their union, although a happy and interesting one, was of brief duration, her death occurring April 2, 1879. She was born in London, Ontario. Province of Canada, on the same day as her husband, Sept. 13, 1855. Dr. Beach is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican.
J. C. BOISE, druggist. Seville : was born Oct. 23. 1843, in Milton Township. Wayne Co.. Ohio. His father. William P. Boise, was born in the Empire State. and. when 12 years old. with his father's family, came west to Huron Co.. Ohio, being among the early settlers of that county. where they remained for several years, when they came to Medina Co., and, after a few years' residence, the father returned, and passed the rest of his life in Huron Co. William P. was married at Seville to Lydia Savercool, who came here from New York State when 10 years old. With the exception of two years, he lived in Wayne County shortly after his marriage. Mr. Boise lived in this county until recent years, when he moved to Lorain Co., where he now lives. The subject of this sketch was one of the patriotic young heroes who hastened to the defense of his country in her hours of peril. He was only 17 years old when he enlisted in Co. B, 42d O. V. I., under Col. (afterward General) Garfield. After serving two years. his health became so much impaired that he was discharged and sent home, Ind, although he receives a pecuniary recompense. it is only a slight compensation for his great loss. He was engaged in the manufactureof carriages, buggies, etc., at Spencer Center, a short time, but relinquished that for his present business, keeping one of the finest lines of drugs to be found in Medina Co. He was married, Aug. 12, 1865, to Lorinda, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth (Lance) Wideman. She was born in Medina Co., Chatham Township, March 13, 1847, and has crowned their union with one child—Lura, born Dec. 26, 1867. Mr. Boise is a successful business man, and in politics is found in the Republican ranks.
WILLIAM BIGHAM, physician and surgeon. Seville; was born in Holmes Co., Ohio, Sept. 11, 1834. A family of this name emigrated to Wayne Co.. Ohio, as early as 1812. James Bigham being the head of the family. He bought a farm near where Wooster now stands, but which then contained only a solitary cabin, and commenced the battle of making a home in the dense forest. The following year. they became alarmed at the reported ravages of the Indians, and, burying their cooking utensils, returned to their native county in the Keystone State, where they passed one year. and then again ventured to return to their pioneer home in the wilds of Ohio. They lived here the remainder of their lives, and passed away peacefully many years ago. Ebenezer. one of their sons, was about 10 years old when they came here, and his early life did not differ materially from that of other pioneer children, and, after arriving at manhood. returned to Westmoreland Co.. Penn., and married Mary Cunningham. They lived in Wayne Co. one year, and then removed to Holmes Co., where they passed the rest of their days developing a fine property and creating a truly interesting home. She died in 1858, and was followed by her husband in 1876. The subject of this sketch received a good common-school education, which was supplemented by a business course, and in 1855 he went to Cumberland, Va.. where he was book-keeper for Cyrus Prentiss. a dealer in fire-proof brick in the New Orleans market. In the political campaign of 1856. he was one of the twenty Free-Soil citizens that resided in that county, and these were all men of Northern birth or else Northern education. This handful of patriotic souls raised the first pole ever dedicated to their cause in Virginia soil—a monument to their fearlessness and heroism. He commenced the study of medicine in 1858, and during the winter of 1861–62 attended the
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University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. In April. 1862. he located at Seville. where he has since practiced. except daring the time he was in the army. He was Captain of the 166th 0. N. G., Co. F, and located at Fort Richardson. He secured the right of way for the C.. T. V. & W. R. R. through this section of country, and was instrumental in securing the necessary local support. He was surgeon of the road from 1872 to 1875. and was elected Mayor of Seville in 1862. and again in 1864 and 1878. His marriage was celebrated May 27. 1856. Amanda L., daughter of Solomon and Martha (Davis) Geller becoming his wife. She was a resident of Mt. Gilead. Ohio. They have one child—Mattie M.. born Aug. 7. 185 7. He is a Republican.
VAN BELL, hardware. Seville ; was born in Guilford Township. Medina Co.. Ohio. Feb. 3. 1835. His father. Nathaniel Bell. came here from New York State at a very early day. perhaps in 1819, being a single man at the time. He was prominently identified with the growing interests and improvements of the county during the pioneer times. and was married to a lady reared under like circumstances as himself coming to the county during her early life. and also schooled to adversity. Her name was Sarah L. Cook, and. in 1837. they gathered together their worldly effects and moved to Wisconsin. where they passed the rest of their lives. she dying in 1849 and he in 1868. When 15 years old. Van returned to this county from Wisconsin and attended school for three years. and then. after living at home one year longer, came here and learned the carpenters trade. He remained three years, and the same length of time he passed successively in Wisconsin and Illinois. The golden land of California next attracted his attention. the journey being made by the overland route. There he worked at the trade of millwright for three years. and. having been successful. he resolved to again visit Ohio. He came to Seville. and. after five years' experience in the furniture business. he engaged in the hardware trade. which has proved successful. He was married. in February. 1857. to Emeline Caughey. at Seville. She died in May. 1871. having borne three children —Wallace (who died when young). Mary and Maggie. In 1876. he was united to Nellie Harper. a native of this county. Mr. Bell was a Democrat in early life. and cast his first Presidential ballot fur Stephen A. Douglas. He is now a Republican.
LEVI J. CONKEY, farmer ; P. O. Seville. Among the early settlers of Medina Co. that located in what is termed Guilford Township. we take pleasure in mentioning the Conkey family, who first came here in 1828. Ezekiel Conkey, Sr.. with his family. were residents of Hampshire Co., Mass., and, wishing to better his circumstances in life, lived a short time successively in the States of Vermont and New York. He finally removed to Ohio in the year 1818, and located in Jefferson Co., where he lived ten years before he came to the county of Medina, and even then lived here only a short time. during which they erected a cabin and started a home in the forest. Returning to Jefferson Co.. they remained there until 1S33, when they once more removed to this county, where they ever after lived. Ezekiel Conkey, Jr., who was born about the year 1796. followed the fortunes of the family and bought the farm in Medina Co., which he himself developed, there being 250 acres at first, a part of which he sold. Oct. 25. 1841, he was married to Elizabeth Haughey. She was born in Allen Creek Township. Jefferson Co., Ohio. March 9, 1819. her father being a native of New Jersey, and her mother of Erie Co.. Penn. In 1837, they removed from Jefferson to Wayne Co., Ohio. where he entered a tract of land, on which he lived until 1864. when he removed to Indiana. where he died. After his marriage. Mr. Conkey settled on the farm he had secured, where himself and wife struggled bravely and successfully with the world. and were bountifully rewarded for their labors. He died Nov. 8. 1868, having devoted the greater part of his life toward the improvement of Medina Co. Their union gave four children—Robert F. (born Aug. 19, 1845). Hannah M. (born July 9, 1847). Levi J. (born March 12, 1849) and Caroline L. (born March 18, 1851). The oldest son is married and lives in Williams Ca. Ohio. The daughters died young. and the youngest son still lives under the parental roof. Both mother and son are consistent members of the United Brethren Church. and have recently erected a tasty and attractive residence in the northern part of Wayne Co., to which they removed in the spring of 1880. They still retain the old homestead. and thus the county of Medina contains many associations dear to them.
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MARY E. COOK, Seville ; was born July 30, 1840, in Medina Co.. Ohio. Her father, Charles C. Mead. was born and reared in Cayuga Co., N. Y.. and learned the trade of tanner and currier in the city of Auburn. He was married to a lady by the name of Nancy Lyon, who was born at Saratoga, N. Y.. and went to Cayuga Co. when 10 years old ; she was a daughter of David and Nancy (Cotter) Lyon, both of whom were natives of Westchester Co., N. Y. Her father served in the Revolutionary war, and at one time both he and his father were captured, but managed to escape shortly afterward. In the spring of 1S29, Mr. Mead moved to what is now known as Medina Co., Ohio, and built a tannery. which he conducted as long as his health would permit. He then became a farmer, cleared a farm from the dense forest, and followed agricultural pursuits until November, 1857. when he moved to the town of Seville. where he ever after lived, following the trade of painter. He died Feb. 14. 1876, and his wife and two children survive him. The younger, who is the subject of this sketch, received a good common-school education. which she completed at Medina, and commenced teaching when 17 years old. Dec. 12, 1860, she became the wife of Lambert E. Cook, who came here from New York State when only 8 years old. He was born May 27. 1809, and throughout his life was an industrious and frugal man. He passed the latter part of his life a resident of Seville, having a pleasant home in the suburbs of the town. He died July 20, 1876. Their union had given two children, one dying in infancy. The one living is named Bert A. Mrs. Cook is a member of the M. E. Church, her husband also having been a member many years before his death.
JOHN COOLMAN. farmer ; P. O. Seville ; was born April 15. 1815, in Stark Co., Ohio. His father, George Coolman, was born in Dauphin Co.. Penn., and from there went to Center Co., where he married a lady by the name of Susannah Emrich, who had also come there from Dauphin Co. Farming was his principal occupation in life, although he worked occasionally at some trade. being somewhat familiar with several different ones. In 1811, he removed to Stark Co., Ohio. and, while living there, entered the army as a musician, serving two different enrollments in the war of 1812, one being as a substitute for his brother. In the autumn of 1817, he removed to Wayne Co., Milton Township, and remained there until the spring of 1826, he came to Guilford Township, Medina Co., where he passed the rest of his life, dying in 1828, having just got his clearing fairly started and an independent life assured. There were eight children then living, and the eldest sons developed the farm and finished the work left by the father, thus assuring an independence to their mother, who died November 17, 1880. John commenced doing for himself when 18 years old, and worked out for two years at $10 per month. With the wages received. he bought his first farm, where he now lives. consisting of 54 acres, at $4 per acre. It was all forest except enough for a potato patch, and, heeding the old command of " It is not good for man to be alone," secured a companion in the person of Miss Anna King, the ceremony being performed in February, 1836. Together he and wife battled with the elements of nature, and were successful from the first. He now owns 220 acres of land, much of which he has cleared himself, besides assisting his children when starting in life. With the exception of' two terms, he has been Justice of the Peace for thirty years. and held other township offices much of the time. In such business as administrator, guardian, etc., he has had more experience perhaps than any other man in the county. His wife died Nov. 1, 1874, having borne six children, four of whom are living, and all are married—Jacob, Ephraim, Sarah and Susannah. All the family are members of the Lutheran Church, which Mr. Coolman joined when 18 years old, and in which he is. Elder. He is a Democrat, and voted first for Van Buren for President.
C. C. DAY. editor and proprietor of the Seville Times, Seville ; was born March 6, 1842, in Susquehanna Co., Penn., and is the youngest of a family of thirteen children born to Lysander and Hannah (Smith) Day. Both were natives of the " Old Bay State," from which they moved after their marriage to Pennsylvania, and there passed the rest of' their lives. His father was a wagon-maker by trade. and at the same time conducted a farm. The subject of this sketch went into a printing office when 14 years old, but shortly after quit to attend school, as he saw the necessity of a more thorough education if he wished to succeed in his chosen profession ; accordingly, he attended two years at Homer. N. Y.. and then finished
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his education at the "Mount Rose Normal School," conducted by Prof. Stoddard. While in the latter school, he worked in a printing office during vacations, and has ever since been engaged in the business. He has conducted a number of different papers, the first he ever owned being at Corry, Penn. In January, 1875. he came to Medina. Ohio, and was manager of the Medina Gazette one year. He then bought the Seville Times. and, under his careful management. it has prospered as never before. He was married at Jamestown. N. Y., July 4, 1865. Miss Mary E. Harris, of Corry. Penn., becoming his wife. They have four children living—Eddie. Frank. Mellie and Ross.
JOHN DE WITT. marble-dealer. Seville ; was born at Cleveland, Ohio. Feb. 20. 1849. and is a son of William and Hannah De Witt. both of whom were reared in Germany. His father was born in the city of Berlin. received a splendid education, and for some time was one of the Government officers. He came to America soon after his marriage. and settled in Cleveland, Ohio. where he ever after lived ; for many years he was a contractor in carpenter work in that city, although he did not work at the trade himself; he relinquished it for the practice of law, for which he seemed fitted by nature. as well as adoption, and which he followed about fifteen years before his death. He died in 1878; his wife survives him. John went to work in a marble-shop when 14 years old. and thoroughly mastered the trade, which he has since followed, although he has done little work in the last few years. In the latter part of the year 1876, he came to Seville. Ohio, where he has conducted a shop of his own to good advantage. He was married Dec. 28, 1872. to Miss Emma Cannon ; she was born Feb. 7. 1850, and is a daughter of I. J. and Margaret Cannon. In 1873, Mr. De Witt engaged in the mercantile business, keeping dry goods. notions and millinery goods, the business being conducted principally by his wife. Their union has been crowned with one child. a boy named Frank. Both he and wife are members of the Grace Reformed Church of Akron, Ohio. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and has held municipal offices. He is a Republican.
JOHN GEISINGER, farmer; P. 0. Seville ; is one of the enterprising and prominent farmers of this township, in which he was born April 2, 1849. His father, whose name was also John Geisinger, was born Oct. 18, 1792, in Northampton Co.. Penn. He learned the trade of weaver. and also to run a saw-mill. He married a lady there by the name of Susan Histand, who bore him one son, named Nathaniel. In 1833, he came to Medina Co., Ohio, where he had previously bought 832 acres of land, paying for the same the sum of $3.300. It was all located in Guilford Township. and, being forest land, he erected a saw-mill on a small stream that passed through the farm, which he conducted for a number of years. It is said that he had his loom in the mill. and. while the saw was slowly making its way through the log. improved the time by weaving. His wife having died,. he conducted his own household duties for several years. when he secured another companion in the person of a Mrs. Briner. He was an energetic. thriving and successful man, clearing the greater part of his farm before his death, at that time being the largest landholder in the township. He died Feb. 25, 1854, and his wife, March 30, 1856. John, being the only child. and then only in his childhood, passed through various ordeals before reaching manhood. He lived one year with his guardian, Samuel Miller. and then eight years in Summit Co.. when he returned here. where he has since lived. He owns over 400 acres of land, on which he has placed improvements that render his home one of the best in the township. He was married, Sept. 16, 1870, to Amelia T.. daughter of Joseph A. and Margaret Overholt. She was born June 3, 1851, in Medina Co., and has crowned their union with four children—George G., Edwin F., Isaac N. and Samuel A. Both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. He has served as Constable four years, and also as School Director. He is a Democrat.
J. T. GRAVES. Mayor and attorney, Seville ; was born June 22. 1838, on the banks of the Erie Canal. in Niagara Co., N. Y., and is a son of Ansel and Sophia (Leland) Graves. His father was a practical farmer, and, in 1846, moved to Medina Co., Ohio, and located on a farm in the southern part of Guilford Township, near Wayne Co. He lived there until recently, when he disposed of his farm and moved to Seville. The subject of this sketch received a good common-school education, which he improved by attending the Medina High School.
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When 18 years old. he commenced teaching school. which he followed for many years during the winter season. In 1864, he served a short time in his country's service, being in Co. F. 166th 0. N. G. He commenced reading law about the year 1861, although he had no idea. at that time, of practicing the profession. His health would not admit of close application to study. and he ultimately came to the conclusion. that. for his own good. he had best forego the completion of his studies. However, he was admitted to the bar in 1871. and, in the summer of 1875. entered Johnson's office at Seville. The same year, he received the nomination of the Republican party for Prosecuting Attorney, unsolicited on his part, and held the office for four years. He was elected member of the Town Council in 1879. and, the following spring, was elected Mayor of Seville.
JOHN P. HARRY. physician and surgeon. Seville : was horn in Lewistown. Mifflin Co.. Penn.. Dec. 21, 1816, and is a son of Joel and Hannah (Chorel) Harry. both of whom were natives of the Keystone State. In 1818. they removed to Ohio, and settled in Wooster. Mr. Harry. being a man of business tastes and habits. at once embarked in the mercantile business. which he followed the rest of his life. dying about the year 1825. The mother, with the assistance she received from her sons, kept the family bonds unbroken, and reared her family to maturity. She died in 1877, at a ripe old age. John received a good common-school education, and. while yet in his youth. commenced clerking in a store. His health becoming somewhat impaired. he commenced reading medical works for the purpose of better understanding the nature of his disease and the remedy therefor. He subsequently resigned his position in the store and entered the office of Dr. Overholt, of Wooster. with whom he remained two years. and then entered the Eclectic Medical College at Cincinnati, from which he graduated in 1844. Locating at Wooster. he practiced there some eight years. and then came to Medina Co., where he has since resided. and enjoyed a lucrative practice, his first location in this county being at River Styx, afterward at his present home north of Seville. In 1848, he was married to Mary Sheller. of Wooster, Ohio. her birthplace being in Pennsylvania. By this union, two children have been born Franklin and Mary Jane, the younger of whom died in infancy. The son is married, and conducts his father's farm. Dr. Harry cast his first Presidential ballot for Gen. Harrison, and is now a Republican.
JOHN N. HIGH, hardware, Seville; was born Sept. 1, 1834, in Onondaga Co., N. Y. His father, Nathan High. was born at Sandy Hill, Washington Co., N. Y., Jan. 25, 1799, and was a son of an emigrant from Scotland. He was a saddler by trade, and married while residing in the Empire State, Maria Gray. In the month of May, 1836, he removed to Ohio, and passed the rest of his life a resident of Seville, one of the flourishing villages of Medina Co. In 1852, he followed his eldest son to the Golden State of California, and remained there two years, when he returned to Seville. He died Aug. 27, 1879. His companion preceded him several years on that "mysterious journey from whose bourn no traveler returns," dying March 28, 1872. John learned the trade of carriage trimmer, and worked for E. Briggs, of Medina, six years, and afterward at various places throughout the country, but, wishing to engage in business of a more permanent nature. he relinquished it and went into business at Seville. He first engaged in the boot and shoe trade, and, after following it two years, engaged in the clothing business for the same length of time. He again went to work at his trade, and, in the latter part of the year 1869. secured an interest in his present business with J. C. Steaks, as partner. In 1871, Mr. Bell became a member of the firm, and, Mr. Stoaks withdrawing in 1876, the business has since been conducted under the firm name of High & Bell. They have undoubtedly the best assortment of goods as well as the best trade in Medina Co. Mr. High was married, Oct. 16, 1856, Miss Rebecca Ross becoming his wife. She is a daughter of Thomas and Lucinda (Shane) Ross, and was born Oct. 22. 1836, near Steubenville, Ohio. Laura Wilson, now the wife of William Dodge, was the recipient of kindness from them, and reared by them from her childhood. Both Mr. and Mrs. High are members of the Presbyterian Church.
THOMAS HUNTER, physician and surgeon, Seville ; is a son of John and Mary (Patton) Hunter, and was born Jan. 14. 1814, in County Donegal, Ireland. His father was a physician
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and dispensary surgeon in that place, and was a man of generous impulses and kindness of heart toward all. He died in 1843, and his companion two years later. The subject of this sketch, possessing a mind both intuitive and retentive, passed the required examination in Latin and Greek to secure his apprenticeship to an apothecary, when only 15 years old. Three years later, he entered the Medical Department of the Trinity College at Dublin, where he remained two years, and then passed the same length of time at the University of Edinburgh. April 17, 1837, he graduated at Glasgow, and. although a good situation was open to him in his native land, he shortly embarked for America. He landed at New York, and, making his way from there to Baltimore, passed his first winter in an apothecary store. Determining to locate and practice his chosen profession, he came to Ohio, and, after remaining a short time in Zanesville, he pushed on to Seville, in Medina Co., where he has since remained, except a short time that he was in Trumbull Co. He has here had a large and lucrative practice, although he has of late years been endeavoring to get on the retired list. He was married, Dec. 10, 1846. to Martha R., daughter of Daniel and Sophia (Gray) Terboss. She was born Sept. 11. 1824, in Salem, Washington Co., N. Y., and was living in Mahoning Co., Ohio. when she accepted her Irish lover against the wishes of her parents. Their union has given two children—Martha A. and John T. The daughter died Nov. 6, 1868. Dr. Hunter is a man of mature judgment, and one who has made his way unaided through the world. He is a Democrat.
JUDGE HENRY HOSMER, retired farmer ; P. 0. Seville. Among the emigrants to America from County Kent, England, were three brothers by the name of Hosmer, who settled at Cambridge, Mass., and one of these was a member of the Hooker colony that went from there to Connecticut. The subject of this sketch is a descendant of that emigrant. His father. William Hosmer, was born at Hartford, and he and seven brothers entered the Continental Army, and fought gallantly for the cause of American Independence, one laying down his life at the battle of White Plains. and another (lying in hospital from wounds received in battle. William married Elizabeth Barker. it native of his own State, and for many years was engaged in the manufacture of coaches and chaises ; buteventually relinquished it for farming. In 1814, he moved into Southern Massachusetts, where he remained until his removal to this State, where he died July 18, 1839, lacking only three months of being a centenarian. His wife departed this life, the 19th day of August the previous year. The subject of this sketch, whose portrait appears in this history, was born May 2, 1793, and was apprenticed to a black-smith when in his 17th year, and worked for him two years after coming of age. On his 23d birthday, he started for the great West with a single companion. accomplishing the whole journey of over 600 miles in eighteen clays, on foot. After prospecting through several counties. he selected it tract of land where the village of Seville now stands. and returning home on foot by the way of Pittsburgh. told the story of the new country. The last day of December, 1816. together with his brother Chester. sister Mary and Shubael and Abigail Porter, he again made the journey to this place. It being mid-winter. they bought an Indian cabin for $1, in which they lived until better accommodations could be prepared, and immediately went to work clearing away the forest and getting ready for a spring crop. Henry returned once more to the Old Bay State, and brought the rest of his father's family to the pioneer home. He has done much for the improvement and advancement of this part of the county, and is a respected and esteemed citizen. He has held various township offices ; was the second Coroner of the county ; served as County Commissioner, and for five years was Associate Judge of Medina Co., being on the bench when the present Constitution of Ohio was adopted. He was married, Oct: 30, 1820, at Avon, Lorain Co., Ohio, to Lucy Hayes. She is of Scotch descent, and was born April 10, 1798, in Hampden Co., Mass. Her mother dying when she was young, she was reared by her grandparents, and came to her sister's home in Ohio after reaching maturity. Their union has been fruitful of ten children. five of whom are living. viz., Louisa M., Henry H., Julia J., Mary Y. and Leavitt K. Judge Hosmer is still living on a part of the farm he secured when he first came here. He served in the war of 1812. and has been a member of the Masonic Order since 1824. He is a stalwart Republican.
HON. J. C. JOHNSON. attorney. Seville. Among the members of the bar of this county,
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who have risen to prominent positions from the humble walks of life through their own exertions, we mention Mr. Johnson. who was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, in 1820 ; a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Crabtree) Johnson, who were natives of the State of Maryland. His father moved to Ohio in 1804 ; served in the war of 1812. and. in 1832. moved to Medina Co. He was a farmer by pursuit, and passed the rest of his life here, dying in 1857, and his companion in May. 1874. James passed his early life on his father's farm, receiving only an ordinary common-school education, and, in 1840, commenced studying law. Some three years later, he was admitted to the bar, and has since been one of the leading practitioners at the Medina County bar. He was first elected to the State Legislature in 1848, and has served three terms there as member of the lower branch. being Speaker of the House the last term. For many years, he has been prominently identified with the Ohio Farmers' Insurance Co., at first as a Director, but latterly as President of the board. He is a Democrat.
ISAAC KULP, boot and shoe dealer ; Seville; among the enterprising and prosperous business men of this town, we mention the gentleman above named, who was born in Northampton Co.. Penn.. Aug. 3, 1813, and a son of Samuel and Lydia (Naragang) Kulp, both of whom were natives of Bucks Co., Penn. His father was a shoemaker by trade, and, in the spring of 1827. moved to Ohio and settled in Wadsworth Township, Medina Co., where he developed a piece of land. besides working at his trade. He passed the rest of his life in this county. living successively in Wadsworth, Sharon. Montville and Guilford Townships, dying in the one last named. Isaac received only a meager education, as one might judge from the schools here when he was a youth, but, in all the elements that relate to labor, he obtained a proficient drilling. Learning the trade with his father, he commenced doing for himself when 18 years of age. and would travel through the country from house to house, carrying his kit of tools," and perform all the work pertaining to his trade before leaving. He at length settled clown in Guilford Township, where he has since lived. His marriage was celebrated June 4. 1832. Miss Elizabeth Walker becoming his wife. She was born in Center Co.. Penn.. September 3, 1813. herfather, Matthias Walker, being a native of Germany, coming to America when in his youth, and her mother, a native of Maryland. her maiden name being Elizabeth Zigler. They moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1818, where they passed the rest of their lives. Mr. Kulp continued to work at his trade a number of years after his marriage. when he relinquished it for the pursuit of farming, as he desired to bring up his family of children to habits of industry, and wisely considered the farm the most desirable place. After their growth to maturity, he again returned to his old vocation. and conducted a large business in manufacturing, but now is only a dealer. Mr. Kulp's marriage has been fruitful of seven children, six of whom are living—Mary Ann, Samuel, Elizabeth, Sarah, Lovina and Rebecca. All these are married, except the youngest, who is attending the Cleveland Homoeopathic Hospital College. Mrs. Kulp is a member of the Lutheran Church.
HON. ALVAN D. LICEY, attorney at law; River Styx; was born Sept. 13, 1832, in Hilltown Township. Bucks Co.. Penn. His father, John Licey, was a native of the same township, and was born Sept. 20, 1798, being a descendant of an emigrant from Alsace, Germany, who bought his land from William Penn. He married a lady by the name of Catharine Derstine, who was born Feb. 28. 1810, in Bucks County. In the spring of 1849, he removed to Medina Co., Ohio, where he ever after lived a respected and useful citizen. Death, the common enemy of mankind, deprived him of his companion, Dec. 12, 1874, and Nov. 3, 1880, he, too, passed away. The subject of this sketch had few advantages for obtaining an education, his school life terminating when he was only 12 years old. He then engaged as Clerk in a store, and, finally, entered the mercantile business on his own account at River Styx, Ohio, in which he was eminently successful. While thus engaged in April, 1857, he was elected Justice of the Peace for Guilford Township, and, recognizing the utility of a better knowledge that study. Upon of law, he employed his leisure time in of merchant, his ability had already been recognized as an Attorney, and he immediately entered into a lucrative practice. He served as Justice for a period of eighteen years, and, in 1870, was a member of the State Board of Equalization. In 1879. he received the nomination of
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the Republican party for Representative to the Ohio Legislature. and was elected by the strongest majority ever given in Medina County. He was married Oct. 19. 1858. to Martha, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Sweet) Wilson ; she was born in Medina County, Feb. 17, 1829. Her father, one of the first settlers of the township, was, for eighteen years. Justice of Guilford Township. He died Nov. 30. 1861. Their union has been crowned with four children—Desdemona, Ilzaide. John O. and Kate. His wife is a member of the Disciples' Church. and he of the I. 0. O. F.
GEORGE P. LEE. farmer ; P. 0. Seville : was born in Guilford Township. Medina Co.. Ohio. Aug. 6. 1840. His father. Henry Lee. was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, Aug. 30. 1812. and is a son of John and Sarah (Lance) Lee. who came to Wayne Co. in 1821. where they underwent the usual hardships and privations that fall to the lot of early settlers. Henry received but little schooling. and the experience he obtained while helping develop his father's farm. fitted him for the task of clearing the one he now owns in this county. He bought it in 1833, and, in 1836. was married to Eleonora Bowen. who was born in Pennsylvania Dec. 8. 1819, and came to Wayne Co. in her youth. Mr. Lee's farm was covered with a dense forest. which he cleared away as fast as possible, and, by a lifetime of industry, created a valuable and productive property. He is now living a retired life, enjoying the . reward that usually follows a well-spent and industrious manhood. Both he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church. George remained under the parental roof until his marriage to Aldisa, daughter of R. B. Squires. of this township. He has resided on the one farm ever since his marriage. erected substantial and tasty buildings, and surrounded his home with many attractions. On his farm we find one of the finest orchards in the county, and other evidences of thrift and industry. When 20 years old. he learned the trade of broom-maker, which he has since followed with favorable results. His marriage has been fruitful of seven children, viz.. Judson (deceased). Chester R.. Richard. Gracie. Bertie. Earnest, and one unnamed. It is the purpose of Mr. Lee to give his children a good and thorough education. wisely considering this of more value than riches. He is an earnest advocate of the cause of temperance. and a member of the Baptist Church, of which he is Trustee. He is a Republican.
JACOB MILLER, farmer : P. O. River Styx ; is the youngest son of Samuel and Elizabeth (App) Miller, and was born Nov. 12, 1842, in Medina Co., Guilford Township. He received a good common-school education, and. having a natural taste for music. he cultivated this. and. for three summers, was a music teacher. He also has acted as agent for the Estey Organs for several years. but does not allow this business to interfere with the management of his farm. His marriage was celebrated Feb. 3. 1867. Miss Laura Rasor becoming his wife. She was born in Wadsworth Township. Medina Co.. March 22. 1848. and her father. Eli Rasor son of' Christopher and Christiana Rasor born June 15. 1813. is said to be the first white child born in Wadsworth Township. As may he inferred. his educational privileges were poor. the greater part of his youth being devoted to the improvement of his father's farm. He was married Nov. 21. 1834 to Eliza. daughter of James and Sabilla (James) Boak. She was born Aug. 29. 1813. in Dauphin Co.. Penn.. her parents removing to Wayne Co.. Ohio. in 1824. After his marriage. Mr. Rasor developed a farm. their first home being a cabin, and, for some time. she did the cooking by a fire out of doors. as they possessed neither stove nor fireplace. They were, in later years. in quite pleasant circumstances. and had a valuable home, created through their early labor. He died Dec. 20. 1871; his companion is yet living, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Miller, since 1878. Mr. Miller has a pleasant home. and is noted alike for his hospitality and sociable disposition. Their union has been blessed with one child—Edwin J., born Dec. 27. 1867. .Both are members of the Lutheran Church. in which he fills the offices of Treasurer and Organist. He is a Republican.
JOSEPH H. MILLER. veterinary surgeon, Wadsworth ; is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (App) Miller. and was born in Northampton Co., Penn.. Feb. 28, 1836. His father was a carpenter by trade in early life, and, in the fall of 1837, removed to Ohio. where he has since lived, being a resident of Medina Co.. Guilford Township. For a few years after his arrival, he worked at the trade, but relinquished it for the pursuit of farming. himself and eldest sons developing a large farm. He withdrew from
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the active duties of farm life several years ago, and is yet a vigorous and well-preserved man ; his companion departed this life April 6. 1879. The subject of this article was reared to the pursuit of farming, which he followed in the main until 1869 ; he, early in life, evinced a great desire to understand the nature and diseases of the horse, and. whenever possible. would buy books treating on this subject. Be soon, through his own exertions, became well informed, and, his services being demanded much of the time, he withdrew entirely from the farm to follow the profession for which he seems designed by nature. He has been uncommonly successful, and after a two years-course, graduated in the spring of 1879, from the Ontario Veterinary College, at Toronto. Canada ; he was married in February, 1859, to Miss Emeline Greisemer; she was horn November 28, 1840. in Bucks Co.. Penn., and came to Medina Co. in the spring of 1853, being a daughter of Isaac and Mary Greisemer ; their union has proved fruitful of eight children, of whom the youngest three are living—Isaac Gilbert, Clayton Forest and George Franklin. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Lutheran Church ; he is a Republican.
H. E. MATTESON, clothing store and insurance agent, Seville ; was born Oct. 11. 1826, in Cortland Co., N. V., and is son of Cyrus and Catharine (Maydole) Matteson. His father was a farmer by occupation, and in 1836 moved to Medina Co., Ohio, and settled in Litchfield Township, where he cleared over 200 acres of forest land. being ably assisted by his sons ; he was a frugal and industrious farmer and devoted to his chosen pursuit. He died in 1870 in his 71st year, and his earthly companion is yet living, being in her 82d year. The subject of this sketch commenced teaching school when 18 years old, a profession he followed during the winter season for several years. He commenced as agent for the Ohio Farmer's Insurance Company," in May, 1848, and has the honor of writing the first application ever presented them. A few years later he commenced carrying various kinds of silverware and jewelry on his tours through the country, at the same time attending to his duties as insurance agent ; he followed a business of this nature for twelve years, when he engaged in the mercantile and clothing business at Seville. keeps a grocery store. boots andshoes, etc., and for the last eight years has been a heavy dealer in wool. He has been uniformly successful in his undertakings, and is an energetic and prosperous business man. He was married in 1852, to Mary, daughter of Halsey and Betsey (Moses) Hulburt, of Westfield Township, Medina Co. Their union has been fruitful of seven children—Ida M., Charles F., 1 Claude L., V. Clifford, Halsey H., Mary and David M. ; the eldest is married. Mrs. Matteson is a consistent member of the Baptist Church ; he is a stalwart Republican, and cast his first vote for James G. Birney, for President.
JAMES S. PALMER, farmer ; P. O. Seville. Among the successful farmers and enterprising citizens of Guilford Township, we have no hesitation in ranking the above-named gentleman as one of the first in the county. He was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, March 20, 1829, his father, George Palmer, being also a native of the same county. Nathaniel Palmer, George's father, was one of the first to secure a farm there of Government land, and died when but little of it had been cleared, leaving a family of small children to the mother's care. George was reared in the family of a neighboring farmer, and, after reaching maturity, he secured the whole of his father's farm, by purchasing the interests of the other heirs. He was married to a lady of that county, by the name of Elms, Coulter, and passed his life in the development and care of his farm, dying in October, 1863. His companion is yet living on the " old homestead " with her youngest son. James passed the early part of his life on his father's farm, and has always been devoted to agriculture and stock-raising. His marriage was celebrated Nov. 21, 1850, Miss Margery Grafton becoming his wife. She is a daughter of Isaac and Jane (McFarland) Grafton, and was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, March 30. 1830. Her mother died in the fall of 1863, her father is yet living. March 20, 1851, Mr. Palmer removed to Guilford Township, Medina Co., where he has since resided, owning a pleasant and attractive farm north of the village of Seville. Their union has been crowned with one child, Stella, born Jan. 15, 1855. Death has visited this family once, taking their only child, the 12th day of June, 1862. Mr. Palmer is independent in his political views, being at present identified with neither of the leading parties.
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JACOB N. REESE, farmer ; P. 0. River Styx ; was born in Stratford Township. Montgomery Co., N. Y.. Jan. 26, 1814. His father. Nicholas Reese. was a native of that county. and was married to a lady by the name of Anna Putnam, her parents being emigrants to that county from New England. He was a farmer by pursuit. and in 1834 removed with his family to Ohio. settling at Middlebury, in Summit Co.. where he passed the rest of his life, dying at the advanced age of 75 years. His companion departed this life in the month of October. 1872. in her 82d year. Jacob has always been a tiller of the soil. Dee. 31. 1835. he was married to Jane S., daughter of William and Aurelia Phelps. She was born May 22, 1S19, in what is now Summit Co.. Ohio. her parents coining there from Vermont in 1815. and thence to Medina Co., in 1836. settling in Wadsworth Township. In the spring of 1837. Mr. Reese removed to Medina Co., where he has since resided, owning a valuable and attractive farm. on which he can pass the rest of his life a contented and happy man. By the union of this couple, twelve children have been born. viz.: Aurelia A.. born Dec. 1. 1837: William J.. born Sept. 2, 1840 ; Elizabeth J.. born Dec. 25. 1842 ; Newton N., born April 2. 1845 ; Lucia V.. born Sept.. 15. 1847 : John B., born Dec. 4. 1849 ; Jacob L.. born Dee. 23, 1851 ; Clara J., born Jan. 5, 1854; John C. Fremont. born June 13, 1856 ; the twins, Frederick S. and Frank S., born Aug. 5. 1860 ; Gertrude J.. born Nov. 27. 1862. John died Feb. 14. 1854: Frederick, Oct. 28, 1860 ; and Fremont. April 20, 1875. The two eldest sons served in the army during the late war. and all are married except the youngest two. Mr. Reese has served as Justice of the Peace, and held other local offices, being now one of the Trustees of Guilford Township. He is a Republican.
RICHARD B. SQUIRES, retired farmer ; P. 0. Seville ; was born July 10, 1819, at West Windsor, Conn. His father. Sherman Squires, was a native of that place, and son of Abner Squires, one of the heroes of the Revolutionary war, and a life-long resident of Windsor. Sherman was a farmer by pursuit. and married a lady of his native place by the name of Aldisa Blanchard. In May. 1824. he removed to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, where he conducted a saw-mill for Henry Newberry, and boarded the hands engaged in the mill, living in the firsthouse ever built there. In 1826, two years later. he came to Medina Co. and settled on a small tract of land in Guilford Township. which he had previously secured. He developed this. and added materially to its size as well as value. He taught school during the winter season for a few years in order to assist him financially, and in his latter days relinquished the farm entirely. His wile died June 10. 1862, having borne two children—Henry and Richard. He was again married. and himself passed away in 1869. at the residence of his youngest son. with whom he was living. Richard commenced teaching school when 20 years old, and followed this during the winter season for six years. The rest of his life was devoted to agricultural pursuits. He was married. Feb. 3, 1842. to Caroline Miller. She was born Sept. 15. 1817. in New York State. her father. Jacob Miller, coming to this country from Holland when 14 years old. and. his father dying soon after. he was compelled to de for himself: He served in the war of 1812, and lost his property through reverses that overtook him at that time. He was married to Sally May, who died after having borne one child. also named Sally. He was then united to Emma Dix. who was born in Massachusetts. and was fruitful of twelve children. In 1837. they came to Ohio. and settled in Medina Co.. which was ever after their home. He died in 1860. and his companion Sept. 13. 1876. After his union. Mr. Squires lived in Montville Township for some time, and there partly improved a farm. He sold it. however. to buy the old homestead when it was offered him by his father, and re-sided on it until May, 1879, when he removed to his present residence in the suburbs of Seville. Three children have blessed their union —Victoria A.. Amy Aldisa and Sherman B. All are married. and the oldest and youngest have taught school. In this profession. the family is somewhat remarkable. the father. mother, son. daughter and grandfather having. at various times in life, been teachers. Mr. Squires has served as Trustee for several years. He is a Democrat, and cast his first ballot for Wilson Shannon.
JAMES C. STOAKS. planing-mill and lumber-dealer, Seville ; was born March 13. 1827, in Steuben Co., N. Y. His father, John Stoaks, was born in New Jersey, reared in Orange Co.. N. Y., and is a son of Alexander Stoaks, who
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came to America from Ireland. He was a school-teacher by profession, and served with distinction in the Revolutionary war. John was a wagon-maker by trade, and married a lady by the name of Clarissa Sutton. a native of Orange Co. Her father, William Sutton, was of Scotch descent, and one of the heroes of the Revolutionary war, in which he was taken prisoner, and suffered without a murmur in defense of his country. In 1844, John Stoaks, with his wife and family of nine children, removed to Seville, Ohio, where he died the following year, being then in his 50th year. His wife died in 1852. James learned the trade with his father. but, unlike many others who leave the parental roof when of legal age. he supported the family until the death of his mother, which separated the family. He followed the trade, and was doing a good business in Seville. but. in 1864. he closed his shop, and he and his thirteen hands. with one exception. entered the army, that one being unfit for military duty. He enlisted in Co. F, 166th O. N. G.. and was detailed for duty in the commissary department. On his return. he farmed four years. and then engaged in the hardware business. which he followed until recently. when failing health induced him to withdraw and enter into his present business relations. His marriage was celebrated Sept. 26, 1851. Maria L. Cook becoming his wife. She was born July 4. 1830. in Medina Co.. Ohio. being a daughter of Alva and Lydia (Cooper) Cook. old settlers of the county. Mr. Cook died in 1860, and Mrs. Cook in February, 1880. Mr. Stoaks' union has been fruitful of three children—Hattie (wife of William Cunningham). Mary E. (teacher in the Seville schools) and Sarah B. They are members of the Presbyterian Church. which Mr. Stoaks joined when 14 years old, and in which he has been Elder twenty-five years. Is a Republican. and voted first for Van Buren, on the Free-Soil ticket.
C. A. STEBBINS, druggist. Seville ; is one )f the energetic and successful business men that we find in the pleasant town of Seville, and a desirable acquisition he is in all respects. He was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, June 6, 1852, and his father, W. P. Stebbins, is also a native )f the same county and a descendant of one of he early pioneers. He was reared to the pursuit of farming. which occupation he followed until recently, when he engaged in other business, being at present in the banking business at Seville. He secured for his companion through life, a lady by the name of Mary Glime, who was born in Niagara, N. Y., and came to Wayne Co.. Ohio, during her childhood. The subject of this sketch passed his early life on his father's farm, but, considering a business career more suited to his taste, he embarked in the drug trade at Pike Station, in November. 1877, where he remained until February, 1879. when he came to Seville. He was married, Jan. 29, 1874, to Mary E., daughter of Henry M. and Jane (Cook) Viets. She was born Oct. 12, 1854. Both Mr. and Mrs. Stebbins are members of the Presbyterian Church, and, although they have no children of their own, have befriended a motherless child named Winnie Hull. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and is identified with the Republican party.
L. B. WILSON. farmer; P. 0. River Styx. Among the early settlers of Medina Co.. who underwent the hardships and privations incident to all pioneers, we have the pleasure of chronicling the Wilsons as the first to settle in the township of Guilford. David Wilson was born Oct. 12, 1790 in Ohio Co., Va., and is a son of William Wilson. who came to America about the year 1775. from County Antrim. Ireland, and at that time was a single man. He espoused the cause of his adopted country in her struggle for independence, and fought gallantly till the close, except the one year he was a prisoner, having been captured at the battle of Brandywine. He married a Pennsylvania lady by the name of Jane Martin, and in the year 1806 removed to Trumbull Co., Ohio, where he passed the rest of his life. David served one year in the war of 1812. In the latter part of the year 1816. accompanied by his brother John, came to Medina Co., and together they started a clearing in the northeastern part of Guilford Township, the site having since been known as " Wilson's Corners." They remained here only a few weeks, however, then returned to their home in Trumbull Co., where they passed the winter, coming again in the spring, making this their permanent home. The first marriage in the township was celebrated Dec. 15, 1818, Abigail Porter becoming the wife of David Wilson. She was born July 5, 1792, and was a member of the Hosmer colony that settled in this township soon after the Wilsons. Their union extended over a
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period of nearly fifty years, her death occurring July 19, 1866. Mr. Wilson is yet living. The subject of this sketch was born Nov. 22, 1833, in Guilford Township, Medina Co.; is the youngest son born to the above couple, and received a good common-school education, which he completed at the Baldwin University. He chose the pursuit of farming, as it seemed congenial to his tastes, and in this he has been quite successful. He was married, May 27 1873, to Jane Sabilla Colbetzor, of Wadsworth Township. She was born July 6, 1845, and has blessed their union with two children. viz.: Hallie Kathleen, born Aug. 17. 1874; David Dudley Lamar, born March 16.1876. In April, 1876, Mr. Wilson was chosen Justice of the Peace for Guilford Township, an office he has since held. He was a Republican at first. but has been identified with the Democratic party since the administration of Andrew Johnson.
GEORGE H. WUCHTER, physician and surgeon, River Styx ; was born in Wadsworth, Medina Co., Ohio, Sept. 4, 1858. His father, Jonas H. Wuchter, was born and reared in Lehigh Co., Penn., and there learned the trade of cabinet-maker. He was married to a lady by the name of Mary A. Brobst, and, coming directly to Ohio, located in Medina Co., where he has since resided and worked at his trade, for many years having kept a cabinet and furniture store at Wadsworth. The subject of this sketch, like most other sons in similar circumstances, passed an uneventful and quiet youth, graduating from the Wadsworth High School in 1877. He studied medicine successfully in the offices of Dr. Briggs and Dr. Lyman, and, in September, 1877, entered the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in March. 1880. The following May, he located at River Styx, where his ability and worth were soon recognized, and will undoubtedly secure him the practice he so well deserves.
A. D. WELDAY, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. O. Seville ; was born in Wayne Co., Ohio. Jan. 14, 1831. His father, Abraham Welday was born and reared in Jefferson Co.. Ohio, and enlisted to serve in the war of 1812, but the war closed before he reached the scene of action. He married a lady by the name of Jane Hoffstatter, who was born in Virginia, and, when young. accompanied her parents to Jefferson Co., Ohio. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Welday moved to Wayne Co., and settled on a farm of forest land. He worked at his trade of' carpenter and millwright during the summer, and cleared on his farm in the winter season. In the course of years, after enduring many hardships; the farm became one of the most arable in the county, and annually rewarded him for his early toils. He died in the fall of 1866. his companion some two years previous. The subject of this sketch commenced doing for himself when of age, and earned his first money at the carpenter's trade. receiving $9 per month for six months. The next winter he went East with a horse dealer, for the purpose of seeing the country. and paid his way by leading and helping care for the animals. Going to work at his trade again, he soon broke his leg. which disabled him permanently for that business, and he has since followed farming and stock-dealing with good success. making at present a specialty of thorough-bred cattle. He assisted in securing the right of' way for the C.. T. V. & W. R. R.. and Superintended the fencing of the road as well as repairs and constructions. He moved to this county in 1864, where he owns over 200 acres of land. besides having Western property. He was married, Oct. 16, 1S56. to Mary E., daughter of Oren and Dorcas (Croak) Foster. She was born Aug. 3. 1834, in Essex Co., N. Y. In 1836, the family moved to Pennsylvania where they lived four years, when they removed to this State. Their union has given seven children—Francis L., Willis W.. Elsie H. (deceased), Charles B., Leslie L.. Mary Effie, and Ray. The eldest is married. He is a member of the Masonic order and Royal Arcanum, being Regent of the latter order. He is a Democrat.