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WADSWORTH TOWNSHIP.

DR. GEORGE A. BABBITT, physician and surgeon, Western Star ; received his first instruction in the common schools of Bethel, Windsor Co., Vt., the place of his nativity, afterward attending the West Randolph Academy, spending his vacations in assisting with the farmwork and learning the business connected with a printing office, becoming quite proficient, in a short time, as a typo. He was born Dec. 30, 1852. His ancestors were of that good old New England stock of English-Scotch descent. His parents, Simeon C. and Emily K. (McKinstrey) Babbitt, were also natives of Bethel, Vt. At about the age of 20 years, George began the study of medicine, in West Randolph, with Dr. C. L. Stewart, with whom he remained one year ; then attended one term of lectures at Dartmouth College ; then entered the Long Island College Hospital at Brooklyn, N. Y., from which place he graduated in June, 1875, receiving the appointment immediately of Resident Surgeon, which position he occupied for one year, treating, during that time. about twenty thousand cases. From Brooklyn, he went to Los Angeles, Cal., where he engaged in the practice of medicine for some months with a young medical friend ; but, on account of poor health, was compelled to seek a different climate. After visiting for a time in Northeastern Ohio, he came to his present location at Western Star in October, 1877, where he has established himself in an extensive practice. He is a member of the Summit County Medical Association, also of the Northeastern Ohio. He is a stanch Republican, at present holding an important office in the village, with the respect and good wishes of a large circle of friends.

A. M. BECK, of A. C. Beck & Son, boot, shoe and leather store, Wadsworth ; was born June 3, 1843, in Wadsworth ; is a son of A. C. and Mary (Miller) Beck, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter a native of Wadsworth. His father came to this place about the year 1842, and engaged in the tanning and currying business, in which he continued until about the year 1862, when he engaged in the boot, shoe and leather business, in a small frame building on Main street, north of where their large and commodious building now stands, in which they are now transacting business. They built and moved into their present room in 1870. The subject of this sketch attended school in Wadsworth until he was about 18 years of age, when he enlisted in Company I. 2d O. V. C., in which he served two and one-half years, then was transferred to the 103d 0. V. L. in which he served until his discharge, Aug. 20. 1864, after having served faithfully his term, with the exception of one month, in all parts of the invaded country. He was married in March, 1877, to Miss Jennie Fasig, daughter of John Fasig. of West Salem ; there have been no children. Mr. Beck has held the office of township Clerk, and is now serving his second term as Village Treasurer. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN A. CLARK, publisher, Wadsworth ; was born on the 7th day of January, 1837, in Guilford Township, Medina Co., Ohio ; he was the oldest son of Aaron Clark, who had married Susannah Rigelman. His father died in 1848, and his mother is still living. The care of the family largely devolved upon him, which, with the scanty means possessed by the pioneers of those days, limited his education ; Though his passion for reading, and strong desire to penetrate the mysteries that present. themselves to man, impelled him to acquire, at least, the rudiments of a fair education of a practical character. At the age of 20 years, he attended the Seville Academy, where he stood among the first in his classes. For about twelve years he taught school during the winter season, and labored on the farm during the summer. In May, 1860, he married Emily U. Calhum, from which union five children were born, three daughters and two sons, all living. In the spring of 1866, the family moved to Wadsworth, where Mr. Clark started the Wadsworth Enterprise, a weekly local paper, of which he has been the editor ever since. He has always been a close student, and active in all his efforts. The business grew gradually

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until 1874, when he purchased a child's paper, which added very largely to his business, and for a time he employed thirty hands, and made large investments. The hard times finally reached him, and, being unable to realize from his investments, the business rapidly fell off, and Mr. Clark suffered reverses, though he bore them with commendable fortitude during the winter of 1869 and 1870: he was employed as Principal of the village schools, and took the first steps toward organizing them under the Union system, with satisfactory results. Soon after his arrival in Wadsworth. he was chosen to the office of Village Clerk, and since then has constantly been honored with office of some kind—Clerk of village, Clerk of township, Councilman and Mayor of the village, from 1872 to 1874, and can point with pride to all his official records. The energy and public spirit that Mr. Clark has always manifested, is devotion to temperance and other moral and religious principles, have placed him in the advance on those questions ; but, as a matter of course, antagonistic interests are arrayed against him in all their power. He is also an active Republican, and stands as a conspicuous citizen ; he is at present editor of the Enterprise, member of the Village Council, and as a Notary Public gives some attention to law and conveyancing.

W. P. CURTIS. druggist. Wadsworth ; was born Oct. 26. 1822. in Onondaga Co., N. Y. He is a son of Cyrus and Orra (Lawrence) Curtis, who moved to the eastern part of this township quite early in its settlement, and engaged in farming for a few years. His mother died April 19, 1826, when he went to live with an intimate friend of hers, who came with the family to this State. He attended the district school until about 16 years of age, and afterward attended the academy at Sharon, this county, for several terms, then attended the academy at Wadsworth for a time, and then engaged in teaching for several terms, after which he began his mercantile pursuits, clerking in Sharon for about ten years, when he moved to Seville, where he engaged in the drug business, and lived for about seven years. At the expiration of that time, he sold out and moved to Wadsworth, where he purchased the property in which he is now transacting business. He was married. May 28, 1856, to Ardelia Lyman, daughter of Elijah and Margaret(Pope) Lyman, who resided in Cuyahoga Co., Ohio. By this union, there was born unto them one child—Willie Lyman, born Sept. 19, 1861, and died Nov. 26, 1871. Mr. Curtis has been a prominent and respected citizen of this place ever since his removal here.

D. E. CRANE, physician, Wadsworth ; was born Oct. 31, 1854 ; is a son of William and Mary (Druschal) Cranz, the latter a native of Pennsylvania, the former of Germany—both, how-ever, moving to this State in early life, residing, after marriage, in Holmes Co. for several years, afterward moving to Summit Co., where they now reside. Dr. Cranz enjoyed the advantages of a district school until about 17 years of age, and afterward attended Buchtall College, at Akron, two years, beginning the study of medicine with Dr. Childs, with whom he studied four years, graduating, in the meantime, at Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago, Ill., in February, 1877, and locating, March 14, 1877, in Wadsworth, where he has been practicing ever since, being the only homoeopathic physician in the place, and has established a large practice. He was married. Feb. 26, 1880, to Mary E. Butts, born July 28, 1857, whose parents were John and Mary Ann (Leacock) Butts, who were natives of Pennsylvania. They moved to this county in 1852, and engaged in hotel-keeping at Wadsworth until about 1864, when the mother died. The father then went to Ashland, where he engaged in the restaurant business. Mrs. Butts embraced the opportunity for educating herself, attending the Presbyterian Institute at Wyoming, Penn.; also, the Wyoming Seminary, at Kingston, Penn. Dr. Cranz is a member of the Reformed Church ; his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Both are consistent Christians, and esteemed by their neighbors.

THOMAS JEFFERSON DAGUE, minister, Wadsworth. Dague's Collegiate Institute is very pleasantly located in the village of Wadsworth. Its grounds consist of about 10 acres of land, a part of which is beautifully laid out in walks and drives, and ornamented with evergreens and other trees, and clusters of shrubs and flowers. The main building is a massive brick, 65x35 feet, three stories high above the basement, and contains about thirty rooms. The first floor is devoted to the use of the school, for recitation and waiting rooms ; the second contains the chapel and family rooms of

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the Principal ; the third is devoted to the use of the assistant teachers and boarding students. The original cost of the property was about $17,000. The total expenses of a student boarder in any department. exclusive of books, clothing and traveling expenses, are $200. The institute was organized in 1876. at Chillicothe. Ohio, and graduated its first class in 1877. The object of the institute is threefold :1 To prepare young men most thoroughly for admission to our best colleges. 2. To provide a thorough course of collegiate instruction for young ladies. 3. To train young men and women who may not have either the means or inclination to finish a collegiate course ; for the various avocations of practical life. The plan of organization adopted was that of the leading preparatory schools of the East. There being a felt need of a first-class institution of this kind in the West, a correspondence was opened with about twenty of the best Eastern schools for secondary instruction, which resulted in the present organization and course of instruction. Its subsequent history has justified the plan adopted. During the first three years of its existence, though laboring under great disadvantages in the way of incommodious grounds and buildings, it attained quite a reputation among the best educators of this State, and won for itself no low rank among the best of our preparatory schools. In 1879. the Institute was removed to Wadsworth. where the present elegant grounds and buildings were purchased for its use by Mr. M. D. Dague, of Doylestown. Ohio, giving it facilities which, with an able board of instruction, give it a first-class standing among the educational institutes of the State. Thomas Jefferson Dague, A. M., the founder and present Principal, is the second son of M. D. and Elizabeth K. (McElheim) Dague. of Doylestown, Ohio. His paternal ancestors were of German-English descent. His great grandfather Dague (or Deg, as it was then spelled) was born on the sea while his parents were en route from Germany to America. His grandfather. Gabriel Dague (or Dage, as he spelled it). belonged to the pioneers of this region. having settled among the first in Milton Township, Wayne Co.. Ohio, along with his two brothers. Michael and Frederick, accompanied also by other relatives, all emigrating from Washington Co.; Penn. He was a man noted for his sterling good sense. and many excellent qualities of mind and heart. In early life, he became a member of that branch of the Baptist Church called the Dunkards, in which communion he lived a humble, pious life. and died a triumphant death, at the age of about 80 years. His wife, Rachel Howe. was a niece of the celebrated English General of that name, who figured so conspicuously in the war of the Revolution. She was a lady of excellent sense and judgment, well educated, and of very refined manners. She was, through a long life, a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, and in that faith died a triumphant death, at about the same age as her husband having survived him some years. The maternal ancestors of Prof. Dague are of Scotch-Irish descent. His grandfather. Thomas D'Armon McElheim. furnishes the Scottish. and his grandmother. Margaret Aiken, the Irish, element. These. in their younger days. came also as pioneers to this region, from Center Co.. Peon.. and settled in Chippewa Township, Wayne Co. They both lived and died members of the Presbyterian Church. esteemed and honored by all who knew them. Mr. McElheim was a man of more than ordinary influence in the community where he resided. having held for many years the office of Justice of the Peace in Chippewa Township. Both died but a few years ago, at the age of more than 80 years. The father and mother of the subject of this sketch were, respectively, the second son and the second daughter of their respective parents ; both natives of Pennsylvania, but migrated with their parents to this State when quite small, were brought up in the same neighborhood. and in due time were united in marriage by Rev. Varnum Noyes. of Seville. They are still living, honored citizens of Doylestown, Ohio. Their second son, the subject of this sketch, was born Dec. 1, 1843, in Chippewa Township. Wayne Co., Ohio, on what is known as the Slagle farm. In early life, he displayed a fondness for books, being averse to farming pursuits, the occupation of his father. His first lessons at school were taken at the old north schoolhouse, in Wadsworth Township, his father having moved to what was then known as the Agard farm, about two and one-half miles northeast of Wadsworth Village. He afterward attended the village school. when 8 years of age, when his father purchased the old Griswold farm. in Norton. Summit Co., Ohio, near Western Star. He there attended the

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public school during the winter, his summers being spent on the farm, until his 18th year, when he set out as a teacher, his first school being near Arlington, Hancock Co.. Ohio. in an old log barn, at $22.30 a month without board. During this winter, the political troubles of the country reached their climax, and the war for the Union broke out. Fired with the enthusiasm of the times. he enlisted on the 22d of August following, as a private soldier in Company G. 120th 0. V. I., but was taken severely ill at Camp Mansfield, and was allowed to return home on furlough, where he remained for months, just on the verge between life and death. In the month of July, 1863. he rejoined the regiment in the rear of Vicksburg, arriving just the day before the surrender. From this time on. he served in the ranks, participating in the battles at Jackson, Miss., Snaggy Point, La., and Blakely. Ala. He was one of those on board the ill fated steamer City Belle, but was fortunate enough to make good his escape ;. he was then transferred to the 104th 0. V. I., and afterward to the 48th 0. V. V. L, where he remained until the expiration of his term of service ; he was mustered out on the 14th day of October. 1863. Engaged in business in the South until the fall of 1866, when ill-health obliged him to return North. During the whole of his army life, his fondness for books and study never left him, and even on the most tiresome marches there was found a place in his knapsack for his favorite books. He was also a regular correspondent of the press. Upon his return home, he devoted himself to teaching in the public schools for a time, and then opened a private academy in Doylestown. In the fall of 1869. he closed his institution, and entered as a student of Miami University, from which place he was graduated as a Bachelor and Master of Arts, in June, 1873. On the 26th of December preceding this event, he was married to Miss Martha Josephine Reid, daughter of the late Andrew Reid, Esq., and Sarah C. Kelso, of Rockbridge, Va. Immediately upon his graduation, he was elected Principal of the Old Salem Academy, which position he occupied nearly four years, when he resigned his position, and established what is known as Dague's Collegiate Institute, at Chillicothe, Ohio. Since removing to Wadsworth, he has been licensed to preach, by the Presbytery of Cleveland, with a view to fully entering the work of

the Gospel ministry, a work toward which he has long been drawn. In addition to his labors as Principal of the school for the past year has been engaged as supply to the La Fayette Church, situated near Chippewa Lake. As a writer, Prof. Dague is rapidly winning a high place among literary men. During his residence at Chillicothe, he wrote for the Scioto Gazette, principally, articles on infidelity, that were widely read, and excited much comment. As a lecturer and writer, he is gaining a flattering reputation. He was honored by being appointed one of the members of the Board of Examiners for teachers, of Ross Co., which office he held for three years.

W. N. EYLES, farmer ; P. 0. Wadsworth ; was born Jan. 31, 1838, in Wadsworth Township. in the house in which he now lives, and is a son of William M. and Matilda Newcomb Eyles. The former was a native of Connecticut, who moved to this State at 3 years of age ; the latter, of the province of' Nova Scotia, whose ancestors were noted for their Christian graces. His grandfather, Hon. William Eyles, settled on the farm now owned by W. N. Eyles, in 1820. The subject of this sketch attended district school in winter, and assisted in the general work on the farm until about 16 years of age, when he attended one year in Wadsworth, and then went to Hiram College four terms, a part of the time under the instruction of Gen. James A. Garfield. After severing his connection with Hiram College, he taught several terms ; then read law two years with Aaron Pardee, of Wadsworth ; he afterward attended the Law College at Cleveland for one term, and was admitted to the bar in Cleveland in 1860. From there he went to Hillsboro, Ill., where he engaged in practicing law and teaching school for some time, and afterward engaged in farming on account of his father's health ; at which business he has remained ever since. He was married Oct. 29, 1869, to Miss C. L. Hard, daughter of Dr. Hanson and Elizabeth (Whitney) Hard ; the former born in Middlebury, Summit Co., Ohio, the latter of York State. Their union has been blessed with three children. Frederick William, born Aug. 4, 1870; Caroline M., born Oct. 14. 1872 ; Harry Hanson, born Dec. 10, 1874, all of whom are living at home. Mr. Eyles and wife are members of the Disciples' Church, and much esteemed by the people of the community in which they live.

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SOLOMON. EVERHARD, farmer ; P. O. Wadsworth ; was born June 22, 1825. in a log cabin on the farm on which he now lives ; his parents, John and Ann M. (Harter) Everhard, were natives, he of Armstrong Co., Penn., she of Center Co., Penn ; they came to this State in about 1810, the former to Mahoning, and the latter to Stark Co. They were married and came to Wadsworth Township in 1814 ; John was in the employ of Gen. Wadsworth, after whom this township and village was named. engaged in farming and dairying in Mahoning Co. for some time ; afterward purchasing from him the heavily timbered farm upon which he worked, clearing and tilling the soil until his death in 1854 aged 62 years. His wife died on the same old place, in the care of her son Solomon, in 1876, at an advanced age. The subject of this sketch attended school but a short time each year until about 18 years of age, when he attended one term at McGregor's Academy in Wadsworth, then taught school and engaged in farming ; he was married in 1852, to Catharine A. Rensimer daughter of Jacob and Ann M. (Snyder) Rensimer, who were natives of Pennsylvania. There were fifteen children born to them, six of whom died in childhood ; those living are Alverna Alvira. .who married Andrew Keckler ; Frances Irene. married Rudolphus Heller ; seven are at home, named respectively, Otto 0., Solomon L.. Jacob A.. Effie A., Laura A.. Orpha D. and Nathan N. Mr. Everhard is a prominent man in the township. having filled the office of Justice of the Peace, and Township Trustee for a number of years ; he is also a member of the I. O. O. F., having passed the chairs in the subordinate lodge, and is a member of the Encampment ; he and family are members of the Lutheran Church.

ALBERT HINSDALE. farmer ; P. O. Wadsworth ; is a native of Torrington. Litchfield Co.. Conn.. where he was born on the 18th day of July. 1809. He was the fifth child. and only surviving one, of a family of six children born to Capt. Elisha Hinsdale. who was a son of Jacob and Mary (Brace) Hinsdale. also natives of Connecticut. and Elizabeth Holcomb. his wife. The Captain was in the war of the Revolution three years ; was also one of those who. in the most discouraging time of that struggle, wintered at Valley Forge under that great commander La Fayette. He was a member of the Connecticut Legislature ; also manufacturer of the celebrated Clover Leaf scythes and axes. in Torrington. Conn. He moved to Ohio in 1816, and settled in 1817. in Norton Township, Summit Co., formerly Medina. Co., on the Akron Road, where he set up a blacksmith-shop, which was resorted to for work for miles around. on account of the ingenuity of the proprietor. who was naturally a thorough mechanic. The year of their moving to this State was that memorable cold season, when the spots on the sun were visible with the naked eye ; they started in October. well equipped with two ox-teams. but suffered all the inconveniences attending such an extended trip. being nearly eight weeks on the journey. at such an unpropitious time. He was several times elected Justice of the Peace in Norton Township. where he acceptably served for many years as a peacemaker to the people. but was finally called by the great Peacemaker above. his spirit taking its flight June 22. 1827, he being in the 67th year of his age. Albert. the subject of this sketch, was married to Miss Clarinda Eyles ; moved to the northern part of Wadsworth Township. in 1835, where he still resides. a respected citizen. with his youngest son and a housekeeper. his wife having died April 28. 1880, aged 65 years. There were five children born unto them, namely : Asenath. born Oct. 2. 1834. died aged 13 years : Burk Aaron. born March 31. 1837: R. O.. March 27. 1840 ; Louisa. April 23. 1844. dying greatly lamented Sept. 8, 1876. aged 32 years. Hers was a beautiful life in every respect, it being devoted to thought and the careful preparation of her mind as a teacher, and for the upbuilding and elevation of humanity. Those coming in contact with her, seemed to catch the inspiration which characterized her, and rise up to nobler and purer purposes in life. Wilbert B., the youngest and only one living a single life. was born May 23.1850 ; he graduated at Hiram College. Rev. Burk A„ the oldest of the family living, was educated at the institution now known as Hiram College, and received the degree of A. M.. in 1871, from Bethany College, West Virginia. and from Williams College. Massachusetts. He entered the ministry of the Christian Church (called also Disciples'). in 1861 ; was Pastor in Solon, Ohio. and Cleveland, until 1868 ; also assistant editor of the Christian Standard from 1866–69 ;

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Professor of History and English Literature in Hiram College. in 1869-70, and became President of this College in 1870, performing the duties of Professor of Philosophy, History and Biblical Literature, where he continues to the present time. He is also assistant editor of the Christian Quarterly. Cincinnati. Mr. Hinsdale is the author also, of the Genuineness and Authenticity of the Gospel," published in 1873 ; also, " The Evolution of the Theological and Doctrinal Systems of the Ancient Church," and he has contributed much to periodical literature, also an essay on common school education. published by order of the Northeastern Ohio Teachers' Association. R. O. Hinsdale is a prominent farmer and fine-stock dealer in Wadsworth. The mother of the subject of this sketch died at his home Aug. 27. 1846, at the advanced age of 77 years. His youngest brother. George. a single man, also died at his home in March 1842, aged 25 years ; was a carpenter and joiner by trade, who, when stricken down by the disease which took his life. had the contract for building the Congregational and Disciples' Churches ; was a good mechanic. a young man of promise, loved and respected by all ; his *as the first funeral held in the Disciples' Church. The wife of Mr. Hinsdale was born on the present site of Akron when a wilderness. The family of this old gentleman are all people greatly respected.

P. C. HARD. lawyer, Wadsworth ; was born May 19, 1831. in Wadsworth. and is the son of Cyrus and Lydia (Hart) Hard, who moved to Middlebury, Portage Co., Ohio, in 1816, and, after a residence there of eight years, moved to Wadsworth Township in 1824. The father of our subject established the first carding and cloth-dressing factory in this part of the State, at Middlebury, Summit Co., in 1819, which place became noted for the manufacture of woolen goods, and which is still a manufacturing town in that class of goods. He also started a factory in this county in 1824, where it is carried on at present. The subject of this sketch attended the district school in Wadsworth until about 11 years of age, and then attended the academy until about 17 years of age, when he engaged in the study of law with William Cunningham, Esq., at Canal Fulton. While engaged in the study of law with that gentleman, he also learned telegraphy. which proved to be valuable knowledge to him in after life in a position which he occupied for several years after his return from the army—that of traveling agent for the A. & G. W. R. R. He graduated from the National Law School at Ballston Spa, N. Y., in August, 1832. He practiced law at Seville with James C. Johnson for some time, then went to Summit Co., Ohio, where he was a member of the bar for about six years at Akron. He then enlisted in the service of his country under the first call ; afterward came home, and recruited for and was a member of Co. D, 29th 0. V. I., known as Joseph Giddings' Regiment, until March, 1862, when he was discharged on account of disability. In 1871, he resumed the practice of law in Wadsworth, where he now lives. He was married Aug. 19, 1855, to Miss Sarah C. Wittner, daughter of Abraham and Jane J. (Metlin) Wittner, who were natives of Pennsylvania—the former of Lancaster and the latter of Newcastle—who came to this State, and are still living in Summit Co., Ohio, Mrs. Hard being the only child. Their union has been blessed with three children—Lydia Jane, Charles W. (who died in infancy) and Metlin W. Lydia was married to William Fedder, of Pittsburgh, Penn., who is interested in the steel works at that place. Mr. Hard is a member of the Republican Central Committee, and has taken a prominent part in the affairs of the community in which he lives, and in campaigning for Republicanism. He is also the inventor of the Imperial Spiral Spring Bed-bottom. which has been manufactured and sold extensively throughout the States.

WILLIAM KOPLIN (deceased) was born March 25, 1829, in the State of Pennsylvania. He was a son of William and Mary (Simpson) Koplin, who were natives of Pennsylvania, and of English-Irish descent. His parents moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, about the year 1831, where they lived for about eighteen years, and then moved to Rock Co., Wis., where they resided for about ten years, when they again took up their residence in Wayne Co., Ohio, where they lived out the remainder of their days. William received a moderate education, and assisted his father in the blacksmith-shop, where he learned the trade, afterward working at it several years in connection with farming, until within a few years of his death, when he engaged in the livery business. For two years prior to his death. which occurred Jan. 29, 1880. of that dread disease. consumption. he

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was unable to perform any labor at all. He was married, March 5, 1854. to Mary Long. daughter of John R. and Elizabeth (Rasor) Long, of German descent. By this union, there were six children, three of whom are living—Ella Letitia (born March 4, 1857), Reuben A. (Dec. 28, 1862) and Clara Belle. Sept. 28. 1865) ; all are living at home and assisting their widowed mother, who is proprietress of the Koplin House, situated on Broad street. Wadsworth, Ohio, which hotel she has managed for the past two years for the purpose of providing for her family. A distressing accident occurred to them about four years ago. which caused the death of one of their sons. a bright boy. who was much esteemed and loved by all who knew him. He was riding with his father. who was driving a team of young horses. which became frightened, throwing him out over the dashboard, entangling him in the wagon and dragging him over the rough roads until life was extinct. Mrs. Koplin and family are members of the Congregational Church of this village.

C. N. LYMAN, physician, Wadsworth : was born May 14, 1819. in Wadsworth Township, Medina Co.. Ohio, and is a son of George and Ophelia (Cook) Lyman. George moved to this county in 1816. his family following him from Torrington Township. Litchfield Co., Conn. They engaged in farming on the Connecticut Western Reserve. suffering all the inconveniences characteristic of a very early pioneer life in a wild, wooded country. The Doctor attended the common district school. as held in the township. and assisted his father, until about seventeen years of age. His parents being New England people. they were concerned about the education of their children. and gave them all the advantages that a new country could afford. After his 17th year. he assisted his father in the manufacture of fanning-mills, until about 19 years of age. when he entered the office of Elijah Kendrick, M. D., of Wadsworth, with whom he studied for two years, when he was deprived of the instructions of his old preceptor, on account of his having received the appointment of Superintendent of the Insane Asylum at Columbus, Ohio. He then pursued his studies with Dr. G. K. Pardee. of Wadsworth, with whom he entered into partnership, after attending lectures at Lexington. Ky., and graduating March 1. 1843. After thedeath of Dr. Pardee. he attended to their extensive practice himself. He is a member of the National Medical Association, the Northwestern Medical Association, of which he was President one term. and of the State Medical Association. He was married, March 3, 1844, to Miss C. E. Beach, (laughter of Luman and Lydia (Wright) Beach. By this union, there has been no issue. The father of Dr. Lyman is still living, in his 91st year. and they both advocate the principles of true Republicanism.

JUDGE JOHN LUGENBEEL. deceased: was born Dec. 26. 1792. in Frederick Co.. Md.. the son of' John and Sarah (Worman) Lugenbeel who were also natives of Frederick Co.. Md. He received a meager district-school education. which. with a great amount of natural ability, enabled him to reach the goal of success in his long and checkered life. He first engaged in farming. Was elected Judge of the Court in Frederick City. Md.. and also engaged in mercantile pursuits for several years. when he moved, with his family, to Delaware Co.. Ohio, about 47 years ago. and engaged in farming there for about fifteen years. He was elected Judge of the Probate Court there one year after his settlement in this county. which office he filled for seven years. He afterward sold the farm and moved to the city of Delaware, where he lived a retired life for a few years. and then moved to Cleveland. Ohio. where he resided in retirement four years. at the end of which he went to Akron, Ohio. where he was not permitted to live the retired life which he desired. but was elected to different offices of responsibility. which he filled creditably for a number of years, when he again withdrew from active life, and moved to Wadsworth, thence to Western Star, where his wife is now living at the advanced age of 84 years. a bright and interesting old lady, he having died Dec. 26, 1874, on his 80th birthday. He was married May 12, 1814, to Pamela Poole. who was born Sept. 27. 1796. and is the daughter of Brice and Achsah (James) Poole. By her he had five children—Ephraim, Henry. Pinkney, Susan C.. De Witt C. and Lucretia, three of whom are living—Col. Pinkney, a graduate of West Point, who is now located at New York Harbor ; De Witt C., a school-teacher in Delaware Co.. Ohio, and Lucretia, now Mrs. Burnham. a widow living at Burlington. Iowa.

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Mrs. Lugenbeel is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

E. G. LOOMIS. Wadsworth. The subject of this brief notice is the proprietor and Superintendent of the Silver Creek Coal Mines, and is also Secretary of the C. & T. V. R. R. He is engaged quite extensively in farming. and is the lessee of extensive coal fields in various parts of this and adjoining counties, which are not. as yet. in operation.

GEORGE W. LEONARD, farmer ; P. O. Western Star ; was born in Cuyahoga Co. June 1, 1857 ; is a son of Roland and Malinda (Norman) Leonard. the former a native of Stark Co.. and the latter of Coshocton Co. His grandfather. James F. Leonard. came to Stark Co. in about 1805. as a land-jobber and surveyor ; his great-grandfather on his father's side of the house came from County Fermanagh. Ireland, early in 1700. and settled in York State. The subject of this sketch attended the Cleveland Public Schools until his graduation at about 19 years of age, when he attended Mt. Union College one year, his vacations being spent in assisting his father in the dry goods business in the city of Cleveland. He afterward engaged in the grocery and meat business. shipping stock two years. with his brother-in-law. His father having retired from business in Cleveland, is now farming near Kent. Portage Co.. Ohio. George was married, Dec. 20. 1877. to Melissa Young. who was born in Stark Co.. Ohio. Oct. 14. 1858. and is a daughter of Cyrus and Margaret (Shaffer) Young. who were also natives of Stark Co., Ohio. by whom he has one child—Florence M.—born March 27. 1879. Mr. Leonard is engaged quite extensively in the stock business, and is also carrying on a large farm. He is of Irish-French descent. a Republican in his political belief, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

FRANK MILLS, farmer ; P. O. Wadsworth ; was born May 14. 1836, in a house built by his grandfather, on the farm which he settled in 1818, and in which Frank now lives with his family and aged mother, his father having died about two years ago. Frank is a son of Philo P. and Amoret (Bates) Mills, after whose father the village of Bates' Corners is called, the former born in Norfolk, Conn.. July 8, 1805, and the latter in Hartland, Conn., in 1808. Their parents were among the earliest settlers in this county. Frank received a district-school education, and attended a graded school at Western Star a few terms, till about 20 years of age, when he engaged in farming with his father, having, before that time, rendered him considerable service while out of school, and, being the only child, his sister having died at 15 years of age, the care and management of the farm would devolve upon him. He was married. Feb. 16, 1858, to Julia A. Grotz, born Jan 1. 1840, and daughter of Abraham and Caroline (Hayes) Grotz, of Copley, Summit Co. Ohio ; by this union, there are four children—Fred P.. born Dec. 28. 1.859 ; Edgar, born Dec. 16, 1860, and died Feb. 27. 1861 ; Mattie, born Oct. 14. 1862: Harry, born March 20, 1866 : all those living are at home. Mr. Mills was elected for a term of three years to the office of Commissioner of the county about two years ago. which office he has acceptably filled, as well as that of Township Trustee for several years. and is also Treasurer of the Village School Board, of which he has been a member for the last nine years. Mr. Mills is a strong Republican in his political views. He is an extensive stock dealer and shipper. in which occupation his time is diligently employed, in connection with the duties of his office. He is a prominent and enterprising business man, respected and esteemed by all who know him.

ELI OVERHOLT, Postmaster, Wadsworth ; was born Jan 23, 1842, and is a son of Martin L. and Elizabeth (Tinsman) Overholt. both natives of Pennsylvania, but moving to this county at an early date—forty-eight years ago —and bought a tract of land of about 244 acres, in the southwest part of the township. where the subject of this sketch was barn received his education and lived until his enlistment in Co. H. 29th 0. V. I., Oct. 28. 1861, serving two years and over, being discharged Dec. 3, 1863. on account of a severe wound in the leg, received in the battle of Chancellorsville. Va. ; he was also at the battles of Winchester and Port Republic, Va., being taken prisoner at the latter place on the 9th day of June, 1862, and sent to Belle Isle ; was released on parole and then exchanged after two months' confinement, and returned to his regiment, under Gen. Shields as division commander. He was married, Oct. 6, 1869. to Anna Baughman, of Wadsworth, daughter of David and Amelia (Deshler) Baughman, who were among the early settlers of the county ; their union

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was blessed with two children—Olive Bell and Albert—the former born Aug. 9, 1870, the latter Sept. 6, 1872. Mrs. Overholt died Nov. 23, 1877, after a brief illness of two weeks, leaving two small children and a loving husband to mourn her loss. Mr. Overholt was appointed to the office of Postmaster of Wadsworth, Oct. 1, 1871, which place he has filled creditably to himself and acceptably to the community. He is a stanch Republican, a member of the Congregational Church, a consistent Christian and a good citizen. His mother is living in his family, the father having died when he was quite small.

HON. AARON PARDEE, lawyer, Wadsworth ; was born Oct. 8, 1808, in Skaneateles, which was then Marcellus, in Onondaga Co., N. Y. He is a son of Ebenezer and Anna (Minor) Pardee, natives of Norfolk, Conn., the latter a daughter of Dr. Minor, of that place. There were ten sons and two daughters in the family, of whom Aaron was the youngest son ; his father died in December, 1812, leaving the mother with a large family in her care, the oldest 22 years, the youngest 2 years of age. Aaron attended district school in his native county until past 15 years of age, when he moved to this township with his mother and the family in wagons, one of which he drove. After coming to this county, he attended school one winter and taught two winters. He was married on his birthday in 1827, at 19 years of age to Eveline B. Eyles, daughter of Hon. William Eyles, who was prominent in the early legislation of the State, and Polly Derthick, his wife, who were natives of Litchfield Co., Conn. By this union, there were nine children —William, Henry. Charles. Don A., George, Evelyn S.. Almira, Fanny and Elle. Six are now living, four sons and two daughters. Don A. was a Major, and afterward promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, under Gen. James A. Garfield. He has also held the office of District Judge in New Orleans, where he located after the war. George K. was a Captain in the same regiment, under Gen. Garfield, and is now an Attorney at law in Akron. Ohio. Aaron Pardee began the study of law in 1833, in connection with farm labor. and was admitted to the bar in 1837, after which time he practiced law in Wadsworth, where he has been ever since. He was elected in the State Senate in 1850, was re-elected under the new constitution and serveduntil the expiration of his term. Under Abraham Lincoln's administration, he was appointed Assessor of Internal Revenue. at the adoption of that law. serving in that capacity until 1866. He was the first Mayor of Wadsworth. and has filled other responsible offices in the village and township. He is an old citizen, and is respected and esteemed by the community in which he lives.

JUDGE ALLEN PARDEE. retired ; P. O. Wadsworth ; was born Feb. 7. 1790, in Norfolk Township. Litchfield Co.. Conn.. awl is a son of Ebenezer and Annie (Minor) Pardee. who moved to Onondaga Co.. N. Y.. where the father died. Allen came to this State in July, 1818, to Wadsworth Township. where he has lived ever since. He worked in the capacity of farmer until about 1835. when he engaged in buying and selling stock. he and a younger brother. using the name of another brother in York State to strengthen the firm, engaged in mercantile pursuits. in which they were very successful. They afterward built a large flouring mill, and made flour for the New York market. filling a contract of 600 barrels of superfine flour, for which they received the sum of $6.50 per barrel. to be supplied in the month of June of that year. Another quite remarkable incident in the Judge's life. was that he. with his own hands. unheaded. packed and reheaded 600 barrels of pork in one season. which he sold at a good price. They also built several of the first buildings in the village. besides improving the country and building and manipulating mills. The Judge's education was very limited, having attended school but a few days after 8 years of age ; he acquired. however. by his own energy and remarkable ability. a good education. He served two terms on the bench (fourteen years) under the old constitution. and has been prominently identified with the early affairs of the county, and is probably better known in all parts of the county than any other man who ever lived in it. He was married in December, 1812. to Phoebe Foster. daughter of Thomas and Mary (Gage) Foster. who resided in Onondaga Co.. N. Y. By this union, there were the following children-William N.. Eugene. Lauratte. Ann S.. Norman C. and Editha. all of whom are living. except one who died in infancy. His wife died in 1842. and lie was remarried to Louisa Bates (Wilcox) in 1844. by whom he had no

WADSWORTH TOWNSHIP. - 715

children. She had two children by her former husband, who were well provided for by their stepfather, whom they loved. Their mother died in 1875. The Judge's children have all married ; his daughter, Ann S., who is a widow, is living at home with her father, in his old age. They are all respected and admired by the citizens of the community in which they live.

HORACE GREELEY SHEETS, farmer ; P. O. Wadsworth. Among the enterprising young men of Medina Co., a sketch of whose lives shall help to embellish the pages of this volume, is the subject of this sketch. No one is more widely known, none more deserving, and none more prominent in the respect, confidence and affections of the people than he. He was born Jan. 30, 1851. in Chippewa Township. in the northern part of Wayne Co., where his parents. John F. and Catharine (Schrautz) Sheets, now live, respected farmers. They came to this State from Pennsylvania ; he, when 18 years of age, and was born Jan. 24, 1821 ; she in 1835, and was born March 27, 182 7 : they were married in 1845, in Stark Co., where they both settled when first coming into the State, and moved to the place which they now occupy. His father learned the cabinet-maker's trade while yet in Pennsylvania, at which he was employed for some time, finally devoting his life to agriculture. His earliest ancestors were natives of Switzerland, emigrating to this country at an early day. Mr. Sheets passed the first twenty-two years of his early life on his father's farm. and was married on his twenty-second birthday to Rebecca Hildebrand, daughter of Manasseh and Rebecca (Hoover) Hildebrand, natives of York Co., Penn. ; her father died in 1854 ; her mother afterward married a Mr. Rohrer and came to Milton Township, Wayne Co. Mr. Sheets' marriage has been blessed with two children—John Franklin. born Dec. 30, 1875, and Clara Maud, born May 3, 1879. Mr. Sheets was educated in the district schools of his native place, with the additional advantage of two terms at the Doylestown Academy and two terms at the' Smithville High School, afterward teaching for a short time. During his school days, he was looked upon as a thorough student and an acknowledged leader, which, in after life, is being more thoroughly developed. He was elected Real Estate Appraiser of his township in thefall of 1879, the people thus showing their appreciation of his good judgment. He moved to Wadsworth Township, this county, in March, 1873.

WILLIAM STEVENS, hotel-keeper, Western Star ; was born Dec. 15, 1824, of English origin, in Middlefield, Conn. His parents, Ruben and Rebecca (Ives) Stevens, moved to Western Star in 1838, where they lived until their death. The father was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and a man noted in his occupation. William, the subject of this brief sketch, in his early life received a common-school education, and assisted his father, who afterward became a farmer. For two years after arriving at the age of 18, he assisted his brother in the mercantile business. At 21 years of age, he was united in marriage to Mary McDermott, daughter of Thomas McDermott, a Presbyterian minister and farmer at Doylestown, Wayne Co. By her he had one child, Francis U., who died in infancy. In 1853, he and his brother Henry started for California with a drove of cattle, arriving in the fall, after three months' traveling. Disposing of their stock, they engaged in the mercantile business, and meeting with considerable success in their enterprise. They then purchased a farm, and engaged in the stock business on the Sacramento River, where they remained for five years ; then sold their property, and went to Virginia City, where he engaged in hauling goods to Austin to sell to the trading posts there. One year later, he returned to California, where he again engaged in the stock business for a time ; then engaged in the mercantile business until his return to Western Star in 1857. His brother returned about four years earlier on the ill-fated Golden Gate ; was saved, being more fortunate than some of his companions. However, he lost several thousand dollars of partnership money. After his return home, he was remarried to Julia McDermott, a sister of his first wife, by whom he had two children—Willie C. and Malcolm Chisholm.

JOSEPH TYLER, farmer; P. 0. Wadsworth. This gentleman was born in Copley Township, Summit Co., Ohio, Aug. 14, 1822. His parents, Benjamin and Olive (Brown) Tyler, were natives—he of Uxbridge, Mass., she of Bennington, Vt. They were among the first settlers of Norton Township, formerly Medina Co., now Summit, settling in that vicinity in 1816. and uniting in marriage June 8, 1820,

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their union being blessed with six children, namely. Benjamin, Jr., Joseph (the subject of this sketch). Solomon, Mary, Rosanna and Abraham—three of whom are living, Joseph being the oldest. He takes great pride in the preservation of the history of the family, his record extending through seven generations, and dating back to the birth of his great-great-great-grandfather, Job Tyler. born in the North of England, but of Scotch descent. in 1620. emigrating to this country when a very young man. He died in 1700, being the father of five children, his son John. born in 1653. standing at the head of the second generation, dying in 1742, leaving seven children. his son Joseph. born in 1701, heading the third generation: he died in 1779. leaving ten children: one of whom was Solomon, born in 1757, head of the fourth generation ; he died, having twelve children, one. Benjamin, of the fifth generation. born in 1796: and father of the subject of this sketch ; died in 1875. Joseph received but a meager education, attending district school but a short time each year, until about 19 years of age, the remainder of his early life being spent in assisting on the farm. The following five years were spent in different occupations, in which he was quite successful ; also. in later life. his career has been one of signal success. the elements of which are found in an excellent judgment, a remarkable business tact. an indomitable energy and perseverance, a strict integrity in dealing, and a power, which few men possess. of commanding the respect and confidence of the people. He was married, Dec. 22, 1846. to Eliza Ann Williams, a native of Stark Co., and daughter of John and Hannah (Albright) Williams, by whom he has three children—Augusta T., born Oct. 16, 1847 ; Rush S., Oct. 15, 1851, married to Laura S. Stanard. by whom he has one child, Winifred Pearl. born June 21. 1876: he is engaged in farming in Wadsworth Township ; and Jessie R., born Sept. 17. 1856. now Mrs. J. W. Culbertson. living in Lorain, Ohio ; her husband is engaged on the railroad ; they have one child, Guy W.. born Sept. 26, 1878. Mr. Tyler is a prominent man in his township, having held the offices of Justice of the Peace and Township Trustee for a number of years, acceptably filling both, being a stanch old Republican in politics. and has been a member of the I. O. 0. F. for about thirty years. During the late rebellion, he enlisted in the naval service, but, after the lapse of three weeks as a sailor, was discharged. and appointed Paymaster Steward, with headquarters at Cairo. on the Clara Dolson receiving ship. After the surrender of Vicksburg, he resigned his position and returned home.

SOLOMON TYLER. deceased, who was born July 18, 1803, in the State of Massachusetts, came to Summit Co. in the year 1825. on foot. After prospecting a short time among the forest hills, he returned to his native State, making the journey the second time on fbot. Four years later, having been married in the meantime, he returned, and began clearing up the home selected by him on his first trip to this part of the State. which has since been made beautiful and fruitful by himself and his companions in pioneer life. who have long since gone to a more beautiful home than the pioneers of this State enjoyed. His wife was Lucretia Cook. by whom he had five children. two of whom were scalded to death in infancy ; Cynthia (by whom this sketch was given) and Lemuel. living in Jasper Co.. Ind., and Malcolm, living near Wadsworth ; Cynthia was married to a farmer. H. F. Hodges. May 28, 1853. at 22 years of age. by whom she had three sons—Tyler, born June 16. 1856 I. F., Jr., Sept. 29, 1858 ; Cyrus J., May 8, 1860, (lied in infancy : H. F., Jr., engaged in farming in Iowa. Tyler farming near Western Star. The Tyler family were quite noted in their native State, his only brother being a Representative to the State Legislature, and prominently identified with the interests of his native State. Mr. Tyler and family were members of the Disciples' Church. The 18th day of December, 1878. the life of this prominent Christian man came to a close, leaving a large circle of friends to mourn the loss of one who was greatly esteemed and respected by them.

EPHRAIM WRIGHT, farmer and fine-stock raiser ; P. O. Wadsworth. This gentleman. born in Northampton Co., Penn.. is a descendant of Jacob and Elizabeth (Schall) Wright who were natives also, of Northampton Co.. Penn., but came to this county in 1842, settling on the place on which the son now lives, and where they died, the mother Feb. 26, 1877 , at 72 years of age, and the father following her to that " beautiful shore " eleven months after. where

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"The winds breathe low, the yellow leaf

Scarce whispers from the tree:

So gently flows the parting breath
When good men cease to be."

He did his part as a faithful friend, as a good citizen, and as an earnest Christian. The subject of this narrative received only a meager education in the schools, but, by his own ability, perseverance and industry, he has acquired a store of knowledge. When quite a young man, he learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, which he followed for about seven years. On Sept. 10, 1846, he was united in marriage to Catharine Widman. daughter of Jacob and Annie (Geisinger) Widman, who resided in Guilford Township at the time of her birth, emigrating, in 1822, to that place from Canada. the native place of her mother, the father being a native of Pennsylvania, but served in the British army, receiving a deed from the queen for 106 acres of land near Toronto. which the family knew nothing of until after his death, when it was litigated. the right of title being contested by parties who had held possession for many years ; it was, however. decided in favor of the holder of the grant from the Queen. Mr. and Mrs. Wright have been blessed with eleven children, four having died in childhood ; seven are living William H., born Nov. 9. 1850, married Christa Eichelberger March 4, 1870 ; Edgar J.. born Nov. 9, 1854. married Clara C. Lahr June 16, 1878; Elmer Francis, born March 9. 1857. married to Ada Bechtel July, 1880 ; Ida Ellen, born April 25, 1861, married to William H. Dolmer Nov. 29. 1877; Oliver Otis, born Feb. 26. 1864; Dora May, May 1, 1867 ; Charles Watson. June 8. 1872. Mr. Wright is a great temperance worker, and was the first man in his township to refuse to give the whisky bottle to men in the harvest-field and at loggings, etc.; he was remonstrated with by his neighbors, and even his own father, but he was firm in the belief that it was an evil and useless practice, and was determined to abandon it, notwithstanding the declarations of the men that they would not work for him ; nevertheless, his plan worked well, and soon his neighbors followed him. Mr. Wright has been engaged in raising fine Spanish merino sheep and Durham cattle for several years. and has done more to improve the stock in Wadsworth than any other resident in the township. He has filled several township positions. at the solicitation of his many friends, with credit and satisfaction. He is. also, with his family. connected with the U. B. Church, and has been for over twenty years.

PETER YODER, farmer: P. O. Wadsworth ; was born Jan. 7, 1808, in Lehigh Co.. Penn., and is a son of John and Susannah (Moyer) Yoder. who were, also, natives of Lehigh Co.. and of German parentage. Mr. Yoder received a very meager education, attending school but a few weeks in each year. being employed the remainder of the time in assisting his father on the farm, until about 16 years of age, after which he engaged in farming for his father until about 22 years of age, when he engaged work with a man at $7 per month. Some time afterward he built a saw-mill. which he run for about fifteen years, when he again became a tiller of the soil, in which occupation he has been steadily employed ever since. Mr. Yoder moved to this State about twenty-six years ago, settling where he now lives. He was married in December. 1836, to Susannah Bechtel, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Bechtel) Bechtel, who were natives of Berks Co., Penn., by whom he had eleven children—Lovina. born Jan. 12. 1838 John B.. July 28, 1839 ; Henry, Dec. 1. 1840 ; Elizabeth. Sept. 1. 1842 ; Susannah, May 15, 1844 : Catharine. June 1. 1846 ; Peter, Dec. 3, 1848; Franklin, March 11. 1851; William Harrison, July 24, 1853 ; David, May 17; 1856 ; Edwin, Oct. 4, 1859 ; all of whom are living, the two youngest at home. All the rest are married, and living in Wadsworth Township, except two, who are living just over the line in Summit Co. Mr. Yoder and his wife are members of the Mennonite Church of this place.