PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 151 which he was the youngest member, comprised also Catherine, Mary, Christina, Samuel, Joel, Moses, Jacob and Hannah, the latter being the only one now living, her age being eighty-seven. Jacob Peterson died on the farm now occupied by his grandson, our subject, in July, 1859, at the extreme age of ninety-three years, having been born in March, 1766. His wife had breathed her last in 1833. Felix Peterson grew to man's estate in this county, spending nearly his entire life on Caesar's Creek, where his father had located in his boyhood. He married Mary S. Weaver, who is yet living. She belongs to the Reformed Church and is a most estimable woman. Her parents, John and Martha (McCoole) Weaver, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respectively, came to Greene County in 1823, settling six miles south of Xenia on a farm of one hundred and thirteen acres. There the father died in 1848, leaving a widow and nine children to mourn his loss. He was the oldest son of John Weaver, Sr., who married Mary Senseney, the other members of the family circle being Jacob, David, Christian, Isaac, George, and a son who died young. This family lived for a time in Pennsylvania, whence they moved to Virginia and afterward came to this State. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Felix Peterson comprised seven sons and daughters, the subject of this sketch being the youngest and the others bearing the names of Martha, Lewis, Catherine, James, John and Harper. JAMES McCARTY. Although quite advanced in years, this gentleman still occupies a place among the leading farmers of Greene County, being vigorous and active, and bearing the weight of his years as lightly as do most men a score of years his junior. His financial standing is a substantial one, and is due to his own ability and exertions, as he began his career in life when quite young with no capital except a fundamental education and some knowledge of handicraft. He is an honorable man, a reliable citizen, and one whose benevolence and generosity have been manifested in behalf of many worthy objects, and have cost him about $6,000 of hard earnings. In Bucks County, Pa., Benjamin McCarty was born May 2, 1763, and Mary Smallwood, May 10, 1766. Growing to manhood and womanhood this couple were united in marriage and lived in their native State for many years. Fourteen children were born to them, named respectively : Elizabeth, William, Benjamin, Mary, Hannah, Isaac, Mercy, Charles, Arthur, Andrew, Thomas, Maria, James and one died in infancy. Three of these died in childhood; nine married and reared families; but the only one living at this writing is the subject of this sketch. Elizabeth died in Cedarville, Greene Comity, and Andrew in Michigan. The father was a bricklayer and stonemason, and all of the sons worked at bricklaying, plastering and stone work. Benjamin McCarty died in Pennsylvania at the age of sixty-five years, his widow living to the extreme age of ninety-nine, and dying at the home of her son Charles, at Rolling Prairie, LaPorte County, Ind. Near tree northern line of Northumberland County, Pa., December 10, 1808, the eyes of James McCarty opened to the light of day. His boyhood was devoid of unusual incidents, but at the age of fourteen years he began his career in life. He worked with his brothers until seventeen years old, when he began learning the carriage-making trade in Milton, working as an apprentice four years. In 1832 he voted for Gen. Jackson, and immediately started for the West, and reaching this county, located at Xenia, where he worked two years. He then opened a shop for himself, continuing in the business about fourteen years. His next enterprise was to engage in the grocery business with Cornelius Wilkins, with whom he continued in business but little more than six months, when he began trading in hogs in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, a business which he carried on for more than a decade. In the spring of 1861 he went on a farm four miles northeast of Xenia, where he lived about six years, becoming the owner of three estates in the locality. In the spring of 1867 he returned to Xenia, but two 152 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. years later located two and one half miles southwest of the city on a fine farm of one hundred and sixty-three acres, which has since been his home. An important step in the life of Mr. McCarty was consummated November 7, 1833, when he became the husband of Miss Margaret Williams, a worthy woman who was his cherished companion until April 15, 1878, when she was called from time to eternity. She was born in Xenia, August 29, 1815, to John and Elizabeth (Owen) Williams, who were among the earliest settlers of that city, her father being a blacksmith. Her union with our subject resulted in the birth of six children—John died in childhood; Charles E. was a cavalryman in the Civil War, and died at Redkey, Ind.; Maria is the widow of A. C. Neal; James died at the age of six years; Clara B. is the widow of John Chapman, an attorney at London, Ohio; Henrietta is the wife of Dr. Frank Norman, of Denver, Colo. For many years Mr. McCarty belonged to the Masonic fraternity and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He served one term as Township Treasurer, but his desire is not for public office. He belongs to the Reformed Church, while .his deceased companion was identified with the Methodist Protestant Church. A portrait of Mr. McCarty is shown in connection with his, personal sketch. JAMES R. ANDERSON. Among the substantial and influential members of the agricultural community in Greene County, the name of James R. Anderson holds a front rank. His home is a fine farm of one hundred and one acres, three miles northeast of the town of Spring Valley, being a part of the parental homestead on which he was born. He is of Southern descent and possesses the agreeable and courteous manners which are a heritage of the better class of Southerners, together with the intelligent and well stored mind and good character which win respect. The paternal grandfather of Mr. Anderson came to this county from South Carolina very early in the present century, dying here and being buried on the farm where our subject now lives. He had but two children, James and Homey, the latter of whom lived for some time in Fayette County, but died in Jay County, Ind. His widow and children then removed to Iowa. James Anderson first saw the light of day in South Carolina, November 3, 1790. On coming to this county with his parents in 1802, settlement was made on two hundred and one acres in Spring Valley Township, where he lived until after the death of his wife. This worthy wothan was born in Virginia, July 29, 1793, and bore the maiden name of Priscilla Coffin. She breathed her last May 25, 1852, her bereaved husband surviving until September 25, 1858. Four or five years after her death he spent at his daughter's. Both were members of the Society of Friends, Mrs. Anderson being one of the active members. Mr. Anderson served in the War of 1812; in politics he was first a Whig and later a Republican. To James and Priscilla Anderson nine children were born, eight being reared to years of maturity... William is now living in Greene County, Iowa; Rhoda is the widow of Nathan Mendenhall; John is deceased, having left a family of five sons and one daughter; Joseph died, leaving a widow, six sons and two daughters; Preston died in Greene County, Iowa, leaving a widow, two sons and two daughters; Harmon, who died in Iowa left three sons and four daughters; Abijah is Jiving in Greene County Iowa, and has one son and three daughters; the youngest member of the family is James R., the, subject of this notice. The natal day of the subject of this sketch was April 10, 1823. He was .reared on the farm, re.. ceiving a common-school education, and began life for himself while but in his :twentieth year, being married November 7, 1852, to Catherine Jay. This lady was born at New Burlington Clinton County, July 5, 1834, to. Alexander and Margaret (Irvin) Jay, her father being a farmer. Mrs. Anderson belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church and during her married life of over forty years was devoted to the interests of her companion and the two sons who were born to them. Her death took place June 25, 1877. Her two sons are PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 153 Ambrose and William A., the latter now living in Colorado. Our subject contracted a second matrimonial alliance, the wedding ceremony being performed January 8, 1878, and the bride being Miss Anna, daughter of Jesse P. and Cassandra (Bell) Sanders. She was born in Bellbrook, April 23, 1839, is intelligent enterprising, and possessed of an estimable character. About the year 1855 Mr. Anderson embarked in the sale of groceries in Spring Valley, continuing in that business two years, and then engaging in farming for nine years. He next embarked in the lumber business, sawing hard lumber and dealing in the soft woods, and also taking building contracts, occupying himself in that manner eight years, after which he returned to agricultural life. In November, 1864, he enlisted in Company F., One hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio Infantry the only battle in which he was engaged being that at New Creek. Previous to his enlistment he had been serving as an enrolling officer of his township, having been appointed to the position in 1862 by Governor Brough. He has also served as Constable and Assessor, and in 1882 was appointed Superintendent of the County Infirmary, a position which he filled with credit and honor until his resignation. He desired to withdraw from the position and therefore sent in a resignation February 1, 1890, to take effect March 1. In politics Mr. Anderson is a Republican. He belongs to the al order of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a prominent member of the Methodist Protestant Church and also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. ANDREW BYRD. Although this gentleman is a son of one of the prominent and early settlers in Greene County, and has successfully carried on an agricultural life within its hounds for a nnmber of years, it is probably true that his greatest fame rests upon his discovery of the celebrated Magnetic Springs. Several years since the old United Presbyterian Church was and William A., the latter now living in put up at public sale, and he bought it with the intention of turning it into a double dwelling. He had the changes in it nearly completed, and his sister-in-law and family had moved into one part. In order to have water convenient he determined to dig a well under the middle of the building, but the water being found to have a peculiar smell he was advised to fill up the well, but this he refused to do. It was found when the plasterers were ready to put on the white coat that the water from this well had turned the plaster yellow, and that the water was magnetic. Mr. Byrd took some of it to Prof. Hoff, of Waynesville, for analysis. The peculiar qualities of the water becoming noised abroad, people came from various parts of the State to bathe in the liquid, which was found to have a wonderful effect upon those affected with rheumatism or kidney complaints. Mr. Byrd was obliged to dispose of the property to capitalists from Dayton, who organized a company, and refitted the old church, and in the summer of 1888 added many imimprovemontsor the comfort and advantage of those who wished to resort to the curative waters. Mr. Byrd rereceivod8,000 for his discovery, the property having cost him $635. Those acquainted with National characteristics would readily discern in the subject of this sketch traits derived from natives of Scotland and HoHolland,hence his ancestry is traced. His father, Andrew Byrd, Sr., was born in Virginia, to which GrGrandfathoryrd had come from Holland. The father married in his native State Miss Mary Halker, the daughter of a Scotchman, who had accumulated much property, which he lost during the War of 1812. The newly wedded couple made their home in their own State until early in the nirfeteenth century, when they removed to Ohio, locating in Greene County. They occupied a farm in Spring Valley Township, which is now the home of Mr. A. H. Myers. The place cost them $7 per acre, and had scarcely any improvements upon it, their residence for some time being a log house. The estate ininclndedwo hundred acres, nearly all of which was improved by Mr. Byrd, who built the brick house now standing there, our subject having carried brick for it. Marketing was done at Cincinnati during the early years. 154 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. The elder Mr. Byrd was a prominent man in his day, being very popular, and having the respect of all who knew him. He was free hearted and generous to a fault, and helped many poor neighbors in their struggles to gain a sustenance or acquire a competence. During the War of 1812 he served his country as a soldier. His wife, Mary, died in 1820, and he afterward took for his companion Miss Sarah Griffee, who was also a native of the Old Dominion. She bore him a number of children, three of whom are now living. He died in 1834, and his widow survived until 1888. His first marriage had resulted in the birth of twelve children, five of whom are living at this time. Andrew Byrd, Jr., was born August 10, 1813, on the home farm in Spring Valley Township, Greene County. He grew up in the wilds of this then new locality, and began life for himself at the age of fourteen years. Going to Xenia he worked in a blacksmith shop under Russel Rice for a short time, and then went to Shelby County, where he learned the trade of cabinet-making, and worked there for two years. Returning to this county he labored at his trade until 1832, in the fall of that year going down to Bellbrook and casting his first Presidential vote for Andrew Jackson. He then went on horseback to Palmyra, and thence to Callaway County, Mo., where he remained all winter, in the spring going to Hannibal and taking the boat for home. During the passage the passengers suffered from cholera, and he escaping gave his services to the sufferers. For years Mr. Byrd devoted his attention to agricultural labors, from which he has retired to enjoy the fruits of his former industry. His farm corn pries one hundred and forty-eight acres, his residence property being a square south of the Magnetic Spring, with three houses upon it, and he also owns another house in the corporate limits of Bellbrook. He is in excellent circumstance, financially speaking, and personally possesses' an abundance of energy and sturdy common sense, leading to a due amount of respect from his fellow-men. In 1834 Mr. Byrd was united in marriage with Miss Sarah, daughter of Nathan Bull, who was drowned in the Miami River. The union was blessed by the birth of six children, one of whom is now living. After many years of happy married life Mrs. Byrd breathed her last in 1867. Three years later our subject became the husband of. Ly- dia Duck, whose parents, Jacob and Rachael (Pennywait) Duck, were early settlers here, whence they had come from Virginia. Mrs. Byrd is one of a large family, three of whom are now living, and is four years younger than her husband. She is a member of the Universalist Church, and a woman whose lack of fine educational advantages in early life is more than overbalanced by her good sense, amiable disposition and excellent character. Mr. Byrd has served on the School Board, and takes an interest in politics, having first voted for a Democratic candidate, bnt afterward having been a Whig and finally a Republican. He agrees with his wife in religious belief. JAMES C. FULLER. Many denizens of our large cities hold erroneous impressions regrading the comfort them and beauty of rural life. A farmer is to them a man of coarse manners, uncultured mind and no taste, whose days are spent in drudgery amid unlovely surroundings, uncheered by ennobling thoughts or cultured companionship. To those who think thus, a view of the beautiful estate of James C. Fuller would be a great surprise, as they would find it equal to a city residence in beauty, luxury and indications of refinement. The land comprises four hundred and eighty acres in Pike Township, Clark County, and is worth $100 per acre; the dwelling is a fine two-story brick structure, set in the midst of a beautiful lawn, with evergreen in front and surrounded by an iron fence of modern design. The barn is scarcely eqnalled in the county for size, beauty of design, and convenient arrangement, while every other improvement upon the place indicates prosperity and excellent taste. A visit to the home would prove that the owner and his family have abundant leisure in which to enjoy association with friends, add to their own culture, and assist in worthy enterprises of various kinds. In Montgomery County, Va-, in the latter part PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 155 of the eighteenth century, James Fuller and Diana Acers were born. They grew to maturity in their native State, were married and spent a few years of wedded life there. They then removed to the Blue Grass State and about 1815 came into Ohio, settling in Bethel Township, this county, iu the neighborhood of New Carlisle. A twelvemonth or more afterward they changed their residence to the farm now owned by our subject, their dwelling being within a quarter of a mile of that which he now occupies. On that farm they remainder of their lives, passing away when ripe in years. They had come to this State poor, but by hard work and careful management they built up a good home and acquired a large landed estate. The first purchase of land—one hundred and sixty acres—cost Mr. Fuller $2 per acre. He took a prominent part in local affairs, served as Township Trustee and in other minor official capacities. His vote was always given to the Democratic party. The family of James and Diana Fuller consisted of ten children, the fourth in order of birth being he whose name introduced this sketch. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Northrop and Mary Fuller, natives of New York, who came to Ohio about 1820, dying in this county at advanced ages. His maternal grandadvaucedwere Virginians and spent their entire lives in their native State. The birth of James C. Fuller took place January 19, 1820, on the farm which is still his home. He was reared here, acquiring his education in the common schools, having excellent principles in stilled into his mind by worthy parents, and early learning the habits of industry and carefulness which have made of hicarefnlnessccess. He began his own career with about eighty acres of land and $1,000. A few years ago he owned an entire section, but it has been reduced to the acreage before mentioned by gifts to his children. During the late war Mr. Fuller did not go to the field, but he gave liberally of his means to assist the Union causemisc. His neighbors recognize his for public service and have bestowed upon him various offices, among them that of Township Trustee. Public life is not attractive to him, the conduct of his personal affairs furnishing him. abundant occupation, and the society of family and friends and the enjoyments of his beautiful home affording him recreation and hearty pleasure. The home of Mr. Fuller is presided over by a lady of worth with whom he was united in marriage April 14, 1842. She was born in Pike Township, this county, in SeptemTownship, and in her girlhood was known as Miss Mary Jane Verdier. Her parents, Adam and Elizabeth Verdier, are numbered among the very earliest settlers of this county, whence they had come from Virginia, their native State. They lived to a good old age, both departing this life in Pike Towndeparting To Mr. and Mrs. Fuller eight children have been born, of whom we note the following: Atesera is now the wife of David Fortney, an undertaker and coal and lumber dealer at Osborn, Greene County. Columbus A. lives with his parents and is engaged in farming; he married Miss Lucretia Niece, of Champaign County, who has been removed from him by death. Marrietta is unmarried and at home. Martha is the wife of Josiah Noop a farmer and machinist of Casstown, Miami County. James H. who is farming in Pike Township, married Miss Jennie Niece, of Champaign County. Edith is the wife of Edward Hoover, a farmer and teacher in Warren County. Edwin V. is unmarried and at home, engaged in farming and stock dealing. Bertha is single and at home. JOHN E. LORTON is numbered among the local officers of Clark County, filling the position of Treasurer in German Township, Uan office which he has held continuously for several years. He is numbered among the public-spirited and reliable citizens, his honesty and integrity are unquestioned, whilintegrityctically self-made man he is pointed out as a model to the rising generation. The gentleman of whom we write is descended from respectable parents, and Grandfather Lorton is said to have been a Revolutionary soldier. John and Rachel (Donovan) Lorton are supposed to have been natives of Kentucky, as they emigrated from 156 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. that State to Ohio in 1816, bringing with them one daughter, and performing the entire journey on horseback. They settled about half a mile west of the present site of Lawrenceville, Clark County, and in the woods erected a cabin of round logs, just large enough to accommodate the family. There they lived several years, by and by erecting a better house and surrounding themselves with more and more of comfort as civilization advanced and their commercial opportunities were improved. Mr. Lorton is classed among the early and representative pioneers of the township in which he did much to aid in its development, and his good wife was honored as befitted one of the pioneer women. He was a Democrat, and both he and his wife belonged to the Baptist Church. He breathed his last September 16, 1847, his wife living to reach her eighty-fourth year. They were the parents of ten children, of whom the following are known to survive: John E., William and Jonathan. John Lorton was born in this county, November 10, 1827, and being reared amid scenes of a much more primitive nature than those which now surround his home, he bore such share as a youth might in the work of development which was going on around him. He received a limited education in the early subscription and public schools of the county, the only schoolhouse in which he ever attended being one made of logs. Having an active mind and a desire for knowledge, he has made use of the facilities afforded by the printing-press to keep himself posted, and is mainly self-educated. In 1850 he purchased sixty acres of land, where he now resides, settling upon it in a log house covered with clapboards, living therein several years. He subsequently erected his present residence, which is a well-built and sufficiently commodious edifice, under whose roof good cheer abounds. He now owns eighty acres of land, all the buildings upon it being good and the other improvements appropriate. The first marriage of Mr. Lorton took place in 1849, his bride being Miss Elizabeth Wagoner. She bore seven children—John W.; Nancy E., deceased; Amanda, wife of Wesley Xander; Emma C., wife of John Baker; Lewis; Clara, wife of Edward Souders,. and Marietta, deceased. The second wife of Mr. Lorton bore the maiden name of Rebecca Swartzbaugh, being a daughter of Henry and Lydia Swartzbaugh, of thiS township. This union has been blessed by the birth of six children: Cora B., Lydia M., Anna M., Luther E., Edgar J. and one who died in infancy. Mr. Lorton served as Township Trustee a number of years with credit to himself and his constituents. He and his good wife belong to the German Reformed Church.   ROBERT B. HARBISON. The results of plod. ding industry are nowhere better illustrated than in the career of him with whose name we introduce this biographical record- He has been content to pursne the even tenor of his way, making little stir in the world, but doing his duty as far as he knows how, and living at peace among his neighbors. He was born in South Carolina, October 11, 1820, and is the son .of John aud Jane (Bighorn) Harbison who were likewise natives of South Carolina, the father born May 13, 1782, and the mother December 28, 1787. The maternal grandfather of our subject served as a soldier in the Revolntionary War and received an honorable wound in the arm; he spent his last years in South Carolina. John Harbison emigrated to Ohio in 1826, and settled on the farm which his son, Robert B., now owns and occupies. The country around was a wilderness, with only the cabin of a settler scattered through the woods. Mr. Harbison cut away the timber, grubbed ont the stumps, prepared the soil for cultivation and after years of arduous labor, found himself the owner of a comfortable homestead. He occupied a log cabin for two years, and then put up the substantial 'brick structnre which still remains the family residence and is in an excellent state of preservation. It bears the honor of being the oldest brick house iu the township. John Harbison and his estimable wife were the parents of ten children, only three of whom are living. The father departed this life at the old homestead March 28, 1862. The mother survived her husband two years, dying August 17, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 157 1864. Both were members of the Seceders Church in which the father officiated as an Elder and wan enonef the chief pipillars-ie took a lively interest in politics and was a lifelong adherent of the Democratic paparty- The subject of this notice was born October 11, 1820, in South Carolina and was a lad of six years when his parents Mlle to this State. He has spent his entire life at the farm which he now owns and ococcupies-e was reared amid the wild scenes of pioneer life and at an early age was taught the habits of industry which have followed him from his boyhood. He assisted in the development of the farm and attained a very limited education in the primitive schools. These were conducted in a log schoolhouse on the subscription plan and under the methods of instruction corresponding to those times. Mr. Harbison remained a bachelor until twenty-nine years old and was then wedded, in 1849, to Miss Jennette, daughter of James and Matilda (Wallace) McMillan. Mrs. Harbison, like her huhusband,as a native of South Carolina and came with her parents to Ohio in 1830, when a chehildf four years, hahaviugeen born in April, 1826. She remained the faithful and affectionate companion of her husband for a period of over thirty years and departed this life at the homestead in 1881. Of the six children born to her and her husband only two are living. Martha Jane died when about twenty-one years old; Elizabeth died at the age of twenty-two years; James A. married Miss Nettie Cooley and is now in Colorado, in the hopes of restoring his failing health; he makes his home at the farm and is the father of two children, Julia and Howard. Lydia Ellen died when about twenty-three years old; Mary Ann became the wife of William Tarbox and they live in Cedarville; John died at the age of fifteen months. In due time Mr. Harbison contracted a second marriage to a lady bearing the same name as his former wife—Miss Jennette McMillan, who was likewise a native of South Carolina and born in 1828. Her parents, David and Nancy (Wright) McMillan, spent their last years in Cedarville Township. Mr. and Mrs. Harbison are members in good ststandiugf the Reformed Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Harbison has served as a Trustee for many years. He has also served on the School Board of his district almost since the regular esestablishmentf the present school system. He cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Cass, but his warm interest in the success of the temperance movement led him, in 1884, to identify himself with the PrProhibitionists.is son is also a strong advocate of temperance and a member of the Prohibition Committee of the township. The Harbison homestead coeomprisesne hundred and seventy acres of choice land in Miami Township, Greene County, which yields a very comfortable income. Without making any pretensions to elegance, the Harbison family live comfortably, and enjoy the association of hosts of friends. Mr. Harbison has the deep sympathy of his neighbors in the many afflictions which have visited him in the loss of children and others dear to him. AMOS W. CRESWELL. Of the native born citizens of Cedarville Mr. Creswell is nunnmberedmong the oldest survivors, his birth having occurred March 13, 1827, at the homestead just one-half mile east of his present residence. His father, Samuel Creswell, was of Scotch-Irish descent and was one of the early settlers of Greene County, to which he came with his parents from Kentucky, locating just south of Cedarville. Where the Dunlap house now stands was then heavily timbered country,which liheleared and out of which he evolved a fine farm. He married Miss Letitia. daughter of Amos Wilson, who built the first house in Greene County, just below Xenia and not far from Dayton. Daniel Wilson had preceded his brother, Amos, coming to the county in the spring, but had built no hohouse.-mos Wilson took up his residence in the fall and after his own removal to Clinton County some years later, his brother Daniel continued to ococcnpyhe place. Born in what was then the frontier and passing his boyhood in the thick timber, from which only a few tracts of land had been cleared, Mr. Creswell 158 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. well remembers the life which was the common experience of all the pioneers, and the primitive surroundings of their modest home. The people of that date wore home-made jeans, the women spinning the wool and flax and making the cloth from which they fashioned the garments worn in their households. Their life watrnestst exclusively a home one. The truest hospitality was dispensed to the chance visitor, anvirtnesre were the sturdy and homeldisplayed.f character so thoroughly displayed. The first store in the vicinity was opened by a Mr. Hanna, on the site now occupied by the residence of James Orr. It was a place of exchange to which the settlers carried their butter, eggs, corn and wheat, exchanging them fbushelr articles, often bartering a btishel of whet for a pound of coffee. The mother of our subject died in 1829, the year after the birth of her son Benoni, who is one of a group of five brothers and sisters. James, the oldest brother, now lives in Illinois, with a family comprising two children ; the second member of the household is Ann, the only daughter ; Samuel died at the age of eighteen years; Benoni lives near Cedarville; having a wife and sevenedueation. Mr. Creswell received his education in the Cedarville schoembracewhile the curriculum did not embrace all the branches now taught in the high school course, the instruction was thorough and sufficiently varied to make a fine foundation for the information which can only be obtained by contact with mankind and through a riper understanding. Mr. Creswell remained with his father until the death of the latter in 1855, following the occupation to which his early surroundings led him, and which be has successfully prosecuted from that day. He is now the owner of five hundred acres of fine land on which he has erected one of the largest and finest farm residences in the State of Ohio. A slight eminence along the line of the Cincinnbeautifulttsburg Railroad affords a beautiful building spot and there the building stands, commanding a fine view of the city of Cedarsville, one mile distaaeresnd of the thoroughly cultivated acreouthonses,ir adequate and well-built outhouses, neat fences and pleasant groves, whih he around. In 1864, Mr. Creswell was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Ward, who died leaving three children—Samuel, who died at the age of eight years; Ada, a young lady attending the Delaware, Ohio, College, and William who remains at home and is pursuing his studies in the Dayton Business College. Two other children died in infancy. The young lady and gentleman who survive already manifest a creditable degree of culture, to which they are adding under the excellent advantages afforded by their father's loving care. Mr. Creswell contracted a second matrimonial alliance, winning as his companion Mrs. Margaret A. Raney, daughter of J. N. Townsley. She is a lady of more than ordinary refinement, and presides over graeeeautiful home with such perfect grace that all who partake of the liberal hospitality must feel the effect of that exquisite but rare charm, which places one so much at ease while still observing the little conventionalities so necessary to perfect decorum. She, as does also her husband, holds membership with the Reformed Presbyterian. Church. Her only son, Ralph B. Raney, is a young man of more than ordinary intelligence and promise. He is at present local editor on the Monmouth Daily Journal aattending, Ill., .where he has been attending college for two years and where he expects to graduate. He is very popular with his associates having one of those open, generous natureLIOTat attract like magnlife JAMES ELIOT PAULLIN. Ross Township, Greene County, during the life of Mr. Paullin, had no better citizen than he, who, after a career which was well worthy of imitation, departed hence at the old homestead where he was born March 26, 1888. He was cut down in the prime of life, having not yet reached the forty-second year of his age, his birth occurring December 25, 18en He was next to the youngest of evven sons and four daughters, the offspring of T id and. Susan (Smith) Paullin, who spent their last years in this township on the old homestead. In early manhood Mr. Paullin was married to PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 161 Miss Anna, daughter of William and Martha (Saville) Cherry. and there were born to them eleven children, as follows: Elizabeth, James, Samuel, John, Benjamiu, Rachel, Martha, Robert, Melvina, David, and Mrs. Pullin. Mrs. Cherry was born in Rock, bridge County,Va., November 20, 1815. Mr. Cherry was born February 18, 1816, and was married February 16, 1837. They removed, in 1860, to Washington County, Iowa, where the mother closed her eyes in death, October 6, 1876, and where the father is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Paullin were the parents of two children, named respectively, Lorena D., and James W. Mr. Paullin was baptized in the Christian Church duriug early manhood, and was a liberal supporter of this church until the day of his death. His last Sunday on earth was of a peculiar and triumphant experience, during which he seemed unconscious of his earthly surrounding and was permitted to enjoy visions of angels and the glorified saints, in heaven. When this had passed, and his thoughts returned to earth, he was unspeakably happy and raised his voice in praise of the Redeemer in whom he had trusted. he left his widow with one child, and a babe was born after its father's death. Mr. Paullin exerted a marked influence in his community, and gave his political support to the Republican party, taking an interest in local politics, and aiming to support the, men whom he considered trustworthy, and who would best serve the people. Mrs- Paullin, like her husband, united with the Christian Church many years ago, in which she still retains membership. WILLIAM H. VAN TASSELL, Superintendent of the Ohio Southern Railroad, makes his headquarters at a finely equipped office in the city of Springfield, and brings to the duties of his responsible position the energy and ability necessary thereto. He is a native of the Empire State, and was horn March 4, 1844, in Seneca Falls, Seneca County. He comes of substantial ancestry, being the son of Isaac and Naomi (Stimson) Van Tassell, who were likewise natives of New York State. The father of our subject was born near the town of Clyde, N. Y., in 1813, and grew up under the influences of a modest home where industry and eeonomy were the ruling principles. He obtained a common-school education, and at an early age began an apprenticeship at the cooper's trade, which he followed for many years. The latter part of his life he engaged in coopering and spent his last years in Michigan. His wife, Naomi, was the daughter of David Stimson, Esq., a native of New York and for many years a resident of this State, where he spent his last years. The mother of our subject died when her son William H. was but eight years old. From that time until a youth of twelve years, he was under the care of his father, obtaining a somewhat limited education in the common schools, and acquiring the habits of self-reliance which have served him so well in his latter years. He remained a resident of his native State until after the outbreak of the Civil War, and then determining to have a hand in the presevation of the Union, enlisted in Company A, Nineteenth New York Infantry, which soon afterward transferred to Company E, Third New York Artillery. He first went with his comrades to Washington, D. C., thence to Newberne, N. C., and for a time was stationed at Ft. Rowan, and later at Ft. Totten, sojourning at the latter place probably fifteen months. He then went out with the Hunter expedition to take Charleston, after which the regiment went into Virginia, and was assigned to the command of Gen. Butler. Mr. Van Tassell was at Petersburg at the time of the mine explosion, an occasion ever to be remembered. Although experieneing many privations and hardships, he escaped comparatively unharmed amid the vicissitudes of army life, and at the close of the war received an honorable discharge, and was mnstered out at Fortress Monroe. Later he received his pay at Hampton Roads, Va., near the same place. Returning now to his native State, Mr. Van Tassell repaired to Syracuse and entered Ames' Business College, where he commenced the study of telegraphy. When acquiring a sufficient knowledge of this he came West, and asked for employment in the service of the then C. C. & I. Railroad 162 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. (now a part of the Pan Handle), by whom he was advised that there were no paying vacancies, but that if he desired to do so, he could go to Dublin, Ind., a small town two miles west of Cambridge City, where the only recompense he would receive would be the limited practice the office afforded, and an assurance that he should have the first paying vacancy. Amongst strangers, without money, there was nothing to lose and a great deal to gain, as practice in, and a better knowledge of the business he had chosen, was most desirable. The offer was accepted. After a sojourn of six weeks at Dublin, our subject was called to the general offices of the company at Indianapolis, hid., where he remained for two weeks, working the most responsible office on the line, at a salary of $83.33 per month. A vacancy occurring at Urbana, Ohio, Mr. Van Tassell was placed in charge of that office, where he remained three months, when he was 'Promoted and sent to Columbus, Ohio, and a year later was called to Richmond, Ind., and again elevated, this time to the position of Chief Train Dispatcher and Chief Operator, which he handled acceptably until 1871, when he resigned to enter the employ of the Rock Island & Peoria Railroad, at Peoria, Ill., as Chief Train Dispatcher and Superintendent of Telegraph. He was next connected with the Indiana, Bloomington & Western Railroad Company, performing the same duties as before, but still advancing, and finally becoming Train Master and Division Superintendent, which latter position he held until the road passsed into the hands of the Big Four, (Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & St. Louis Railroad.) On the 25th of February,1885, in addition to his duties as Division Superintendent, Mr. Van Tassell was appointed to the Superintendency of the Ohio Southern Railroad, a position which he has filled with great credit to himself, and satisfaction to the officers of the road. He was married December 10, 1874, in Warren, Ohio, to Miss Jennie E. Kibbee, of Urbana, Ill. Mrs. Van Tassell was born September 20, 1853, in Warren, Ohio, and is a daughter of John and Jane (Hubbard) Kibbee, who were natives of Connecticut, and are now deceased: The only child of this union is a son, Royal Emile, who was born Febrnary 8, 1876. The family resides in a neat and tasteful strncture, pleasantly located at No. 81 West High Street Mr. Van Tassel! votes the Repnblican ticket, and socially belongs to Lodge No. 51, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, one of the best lodges in the order. The father of our subject during the Civil War, enlisted in the Thirty-third New York Infantry, and going with his regiment to the Potomac, remained with it until the expiration of his term of enlistment, serving faithfully three years. After receiving his discharge he removed to Michigan, locating in Newago County, where his death took place at Fremont, in 1889. The mother died about 1852. MRS. FANNY (MORGAN) FLACK, whose commodious, well-appointed home at No. 188 West High Street, Springfield, is one of the coziest and most desirable abodes in that part of the city, is a woman of more than ordinary decision of character, and of high social standing, and during the years that she has been a resident of this place, by her gracious manner and kindly and considerate bearing toward others, she has gathered around her a circle of warm friends. She is the widow of the late Robert Flack, who will long be remembered as a prominent and successful business man of Springfield, with whose highest interest he was associated many years. Mrs. Flack was born in the city of Dublin, Ireland, and is the descendant of a long line of ancestors, who for many years made their home in Glamorganshire, Wales, and for the part they took in the Revolution under Cromwell were -given a large estate, known as Monkfield, and located in County Galway, Ireland. Mrs. Flack's grandfather, Charles Morgan, inherited the estate. He was a barrister, and practiced his profession in Dublin, where he made his home till his death. The maiden name of his wife was Mary Blake, and she was a native of County Galway. Mrs. Flack's father, Peter Blake Morgan, was born in Dublin, and fell heir to Monkfield. He traced his ances- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 163 try back to Caractacus, the savage King of Wales, whose daughter married a Baron Morgan, of Wales. He was educated at Trinity College, in his native city, and adopting his father's profession practiced it there, spending his entire life on his estate at Monkfield. After his marriage he ceased to practice. He was a gentleman of thorough culture, and had an extensive knowledge of the law. The maiden name of Mrs. Flack's mother was Mary Roach, and she was born in Munster, Ireland, and spent her last years in Dublin, dying a few months after her husband. It was their custom to spend their winters in Dublin. Both she and her husband were reared in the Protestant Church, and died in the faith. They had but two children—Fanny and Julia. Julia married George McNally, a jeweler in Dublin, and is now deceased. Mrs. Flack was reared in her native city, and was given the advantages of a fine education. She was married there, in Augnst, 1845, to Robert McNally, a native of that city, and a son of James and Elizabeth (Howard) McNally. His father was a banister, and both of his parents were members of the Episcopalian Church. Mr. McNally was a clerk in a wholesale cloth house in Dublin, and while yet in the vigor of early manhood his career was closed by death, in 1847. Mrs. Flack continued to reside in Dublin till 1848, and in that year came to this country with a party of friends on a visit, setting sail from Dublin, and landed at Philadelphia after a voyage of five weeks. She seems to have been pleased with the country, as she decided to make it her home for the future, influenced to this decision, perhaps, by the eloquent persuasions of a certain gallant yonng gentleman whom she met in the Quaker City, Robert Flack, to whom. she was afterward married in New York City, the ceremony that made them one being solemnized in St. Peter's Episcopal Church, by the Rev. E. H. Canfield, September 30, 1851. Mr. Flack was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, a son of John and Nancy (Burns) Flack, natives. of Ireland, and of Scotch ancestry. He was reared aud educated in his native county, and came to America when about twenty-two years of age. He engaged as a clerk in New York City, where he resided till 1855, and then removed with his family to Saline County, Southern Illinois, where he engaged largely in farming. He was an ardent Union man, and on the baking out of the war would have offered his services as a soldier to his adopted country, but a broken limb debarred him from the privilege. So he was forced to be content to exercise his patriotism at home, where, perhaps, it was equally needed, and he took an active part in raising and forwarding troops and supplies, and in rousing the people to the needs of the times. He remained a resident of the Prairie State till after the close of the war, when he sold his property there, and coming to Springfield established himself in the grocery business here, and from that time till his removal by death, September 9, 18-89, was a valued citizen of this city. He was a man among men, strong, manly, fearless in his adherence to the right, and thoroughly imbued with principles of truth and honesty, which he carried into all his relations, whether of a business, social or domestic nature, and none knew him but to respect him for the integrity of his character, and to esteem him for those genial traits that made him kind, generous and self-forgetful. Politically, he was a stanch Republican, as also are his sons. His was a deeply religious nature, and as he was reared in the Presbyterian faith, he was a devoted member of that church till his death, identifying himself with the First Presbyterian Church after he came here. Mrs. Flack was reared in the Church of England, but there being no Episcopalian Church in Springfield when she came here, she joined the First Presbyterian Church with her husband, and has ever since been an active worker in its behalf. The happy wedded life of Mr. and Mrs. Flack was blessed to them by the birth of the following children: Louisa, who married James Huffman, and resides in Springfield; Robert W., who is engaged in business in Springfield; John, deceased; George, an attorney in New York City ; Fanny, the wife of John D. Brown, living in Chicago; Nettie, the wife of Harry Van Sickle, of New York City; Charles, who is engaged in business in New York City; Florence, who married P. O'Neil, and lives in Ironwood, Mich. Mrs. Flack's daughter Fanny, now Mrs. Brown, has been twice married. She was 164 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. first wedded when she was eighteen years old, to Harvey Foreman, and at the age of twenty was left a widow with one child—Mabel. She was married to her present husband when she was twenty-seven years old. For many years after coining to this city Mr. and Mrs. Flack resided on North Streot, bnt in 1888 Mr. Flack purchased the home on High Street in which the family now resides. Mrs. Flack had by her first husband one son, Isidore Flack McNally, who enlisted as a soldier during the Civil War, serving as corporal in Company F, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Indiana Regiment. He was less than eighteen years old when he enlisted, and was honorably discharged. AHIMAAZ JACOBS. As a man who forms one of the substantial landmarks of Miami Township, Greene County, Mr. Jacobs is worthy of more than a passing mention. He settled here in the early days, taking up a tract of land on section 26, and to the cultivation of this has successfnlly bent his energies. His land is more than usually fertile, yielding to the proprietor a comfortable income. Mr. Jacobs is a plain, unassuming man, contented to live in a modest manner, careful and methodical, and pursuing the course which has gained him the esteem and confidence cf those around him. The State of Maryland has contributed many substantial men to the settlement of Greene County, and among these is Mr. Jacobs, who was born in Alleghany County, that State, October 13, 1821. His schooling was obtained in a log cabin, into which light was admitted through greased paper for window panes, which was heated by a fireplace, with a chimney built outside of earth and sticks, and where the children sat upon slab benches, with their feet unable sometimes to reach the puncheon floor. If the teacher could read, write and "cipher" he was considered competent as an instructor and his pupils could not be expected to go beyond him. The school days of Mr. Jacobs were very limited, and he was required at an early age to make himself useful about the farm, remaining there with his parents until a youth of nineteen years. he then set out with his elder brother, Samuel (now deceased) for the prairies of Illinois. They settled on land in Ogle County, where they sojourned two years and then our subject returned home where he remained nntil after his marriage. This important and interesting event in the life of Mr. Jacobs was celebrated March 10, 1846, the maiden name of his choice being Miss Emily, daughter of Jacob and Sally (Jacobs) Trollinger. The newly wedded pair settled in Allegheny County and a few years afterward upon their present farm and bent their energies to the establishment of a permanent home. In due time there was born to them a family of six children, only four of whom are living: J. Cicero married Miss Miriam Johnson; they have five children and live on tho home farm: Jacob Thomas, Mary L. and William Austin, are unmarried and remain with their father. Mrs. Emily Jacobs departed this life August 19, 1888. She, with her husband, became identified with the Christian Church many years ago. Of this church Mr. Jacobs has been a Trustee and has contributed annually to its support. He cast his first Presidential vote in 1844. For years he has been a member of the School Board, but has carefully refrained from assuming the further responsibilities of office, and although elected Township Supervisor, declined to serve. In politics he has been very conservative and for the last few years his interest in the temperance movement, has constrained him to cast his vote with the Prohibitionists. His farm embraces one hundred and seventy-two acres of land, all enclosed with substantial fencing and all under good cultivation, with the exception of twenty-five acres in timber. The immediate progenitors of our subject were Gabriel and Margaret (Jackson) Jacobs, who were natives of Maryland, the father born July 7, 1781. Gabriel Jacobs learned carpentering during early manhood, but in later years turned his attention almost exclusively to farming. The parents were married in their native State, and the father thero spent his entire life, departing hence, October 11, 1848. The mother remained a widow until her death, which took place October 20, 1855, in PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 165 Greene County, this State- Eleven children were born to them, six of whom are living. Mrs. Jacobs who was the third child of her parents, was born April 4, 1826, in Alleghany County, Md., of which State her parents were also natives. They lived there several years and then Mrs. Trollinger died and a few years later Mr. Trollinger emigrated to Ohio and settled on the land now owned by Nimrod Trollinger. They were the parents of seven children, four of whom are living. JOHN C. PATTERSON. Silver Creek Township is rarely fortunate in having been settled up by a class of men enterprising, intelligent and industrious, who have almost uniformly prospered and are owners of fine homesteads which they have built up by the labor of their own hands, and which stand as the most fitting monuments which could be erected to worthily perpetuate their names. Among these is the farm of Mr. Patterson, embracing one hundred and fifteen acres of choice land, thoroughly cultivated and embellished with substantial and convenient buildings. It lies on the Jamestown and Paintersville Pike and has been occupied by the present owner since 1861. Mr. Patterson has been a resident of Silver Creek Township, Greene County,excepting two years, since 1828. Prior to this he was for one year a resident of Xenia and he lived also one year in Jasper. He came to this county from Warren County, this State, wherein he was born February 22, 1818, at his father's homestead in Turtle Creek Township. his father, Capt. John C. Patterson, was a native of Greene County, Pa., and the son of Thomas Patterson, a native of Dublin, Ireland. Grandfather Patterson came of substantial Irish stock aud was reared to manhood in his native county, where he was married to Phebe Carson. She was boru in the city of Dublin and was also of a good family. The marriage, however, was opposed by Graudfather Patterson and soon afterward the young people set out for America, which they reaehed in safety and settled in Pennsylvania. Grandfather Patterson, however, soon afterward joined the Continental Army and fought all through the Revolutionary War, being at the battle of Lundy's Lane and in many other important engagements, including that which resulted in the capture of Cornwallis. After the war was over Grandfather Patterson returned to Greene County, Pa. He had served gallantly in the army and was mustered ont with the rank of Captain, having command of 'a company of Irish volunteers who, like himself, were delighted to- have an opportunity to fight the oppressors of their own Ireland. His wife spent her last days on the farm in the above-mentioned county, living to be very aged ; the grandfather died. in Delaware County, Ohio, attaining to nearly one hundred years. Both were conscientious members of the Presbyterian Church. There was born to them a family of eight children, of whom John C., the father of our subject, was the third in the family and all are deceased. John C. Patterson was born in Greene County, Pa., where he was reared to man's estate and married Miss Betsey McFarland, who was also a native of that county and of Scotch-Irish ancestry. They settled down on a farm where four of their children were born, three of whom lived to come with them to Ohio in the early part of the present century. They located on a tract of wild land in Warren County where they resided fifteen years.. Then in 1828 they removed to Greene County, settling in what- is now New Jasper Township. The father of our subject now purchased one hundred and thirty-three acres of land, seventy acres of which he brought to a good state of cultivation. Later he sold out and purchased another farm in Caesar's Creek Township where he and his estimable wife spent the closing years of their lives. Mr. Patterson was seventy-five years old at the time of his death and his wife seventy-four; both were members df the Baptist Church. There had been born to them ten children, five. sons and five daughters-, of whom only two are living: John C. Jr., our subject, and his sister, Abigail, Mrs. Sutton, who is a resident of Huntington, Ind., and has arrived at the age of seventy-seven years. Mr. Patterson, of whom we write, remained a 166 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. member of his father's household until a man of twenty-five years. He was married July 21, 1843, under the roof which still shelters him, to Miss Rosanna Bargsdall. This lady was born in Silver Creek Township, December 10, 1823, and is the daughter of Joel and Phebe (Strong) Bargsdall who were natives respectively of Virginia and New York State. Both came to Ohio in their youth with their respective families, settling in Greene County and were married in Silver Creek Township. They at once settled upon the farm which remained their home until the close of their lives. Mr. Bargsdall departed hence in 1838, in the prime of life. He was an honest, hard-working man and a citizen held in high esteem. He took an active part inpartyics, belonging to the old Whig party. and voted for John Q. Adams. The wife and mother is still living, being now nearly ninety-two years old and makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Patterson. She is remarkably bright and active for ointerestingars and can tell many an interesting tale of the pioneer days. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Patterson were Elisha W. and Phebe (Vail) Strong, who were natives respectively of Boston, Mass., and NewMassachusettswere married either in Massachusetts or New York State, and afterward settled on a farm in the latter Stclosehere they lived until after the cloie of the War of 1812. Thence, coming to Ohio, they settled on land included in the military tract farmcomprising a part of the present falm of our subject. The country was then very thinly settled, their nearest neighbors at first being several miles away. They lived to see the country opened up and settled by an intelligent class of people, and died at this same farm when ripe in years. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson began their wedded life with very courageeans, but strong in hope and courage and labored together with the mutcompetence of securing a home and a competefice. Prior to this Mr. Patterson had learned millwrighting which he had followed for eleven years thereafter. Later he turned his attention to farming and has been very successful. The family circle comprised the following children : Joel was married and died at the age of forty-two years leaving four children; Phebe was married, and died at the age of twenty-seven years, leaving one child. The Survivors are Jacob M. and James Sanders, who live on a farm in Randolph County. William H. remains on the farm with his father and assists in its management. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson aChurehular attendants of the Bapofficiatedh in which our subject has offitiated as a Deacon for some years. Politically, he is a sound Republican. JAMES WILLIAMS. He with whose name we introduce this biographical notice is probably the oldest living resident of New Jasper Township, Greene County. He was born April 25, 1807, about two miles west of Yellow Springs, to John and Charlotte (Chalmers) Williams, the former of whom died when his son James was but three years old. John Williams was a native of West Virginia, and the son of Thomas Williams, who probably spent his last years in Virginia. The mother after becoming separated from her family could hold very little communication with them on account of the lack of mail facilities, and finally to a great extent lost tracgatheredfamily. The little that she gathered afterward was conveyed to her by a brother, Noah, who visited her shortly after the death of her. husband. The subject of this sketch pursued his early studinstruction,very imperfect system of instruction and in a log schoolhouse with slab benches and puncheon floor and greased paper for window panes. The writing-derndestre fastened to the wall in the rudest manner, and the room was warmed from a fireplace which extended nearly across one end. A large back-log was drawn into the room by the scholars, and before its glowing fire the pioneer children conned their lessons, frequently assisted by a healthy application of birch bark. Mr. Williams can remember seeing,.in 1812, Indians, who came to get liquor, and upon one occasion as a band of them were coming up the road he ran home to his mother as fast as his legs could carry him. The mills and markets in those days were only approachable by imperfect wagon roads, and for PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 167 some years Cincinnati was the nearest point where the Williams family could obtain supplies and haul their grain. A wagon load of this comprised forty to fifty bushels, for which the pioneer farmer would receive perhaps forty to fifty cents per bushel. There were no reapers or mowers in those days, not even cradles, the grain being cut with a sickle and threshed out by being trampled upon on the floor with horses or oxen. The journey to mill mild back usually consumed one week. Young Williams was at an early age taught to make himself useful, and when ten years old went into the carding-mill at Yellow Springs, where he staid as long as it was operated—a period of about two years. His mother then purchased .a farm, and he returned home. The money then in use were large coppers, "fippenny-bit," "eleven penny bits," and a quarter dollar, and when change was required this money was frequently cut in pieces to suit. Mr. Williams afterward worked in the cardiug-mill of Jacob and Isaac McFarland, in the wiuter season, and with John and Robert C. Reid at the carpenter trade. At the age of twenty-six years our subject was married, in January, 1833, to Miss Agnes Brown, and the mother lived with her son and daughter in-law until the fall of 1862, when she died at the advanced age of eighty-five years. Of this union there were born four children, one of whom is living. Mrs. Agnes (Brown) Williams departed this life at her home in Jasper Township, in 1853. The daughter Jane died in 1856, when eighteen years old. The son, David Brown, is now .senior member of the firm of Williams & McPherson, in Xenia. In 1836 Mr. Williams removed to the farm which he now owns and occupies. With the exception of about seven acres it was a dense forest, and the only improvement upon it was a small log cabin. By the exercise of great industry he has succeeded in bringing the whole to a good state of cultivation. In the meantime he has been employed considerably in the manufacture of pumps. He contracted a second marriage, June 27, 1854, with Miss Margaret J., daughter of George and Martha (Erwin) Junkins. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Williams was Lancelot Junkins, who married Martha Galloway. The latter was the danghter of James Galloway, who moved from Kentucky about the year 1800, settling on what is now known as the Xenia Pike. Mr. Junkins cleared a farm and carried on blacksmithing in Cedarville Township, where Mrs. Williams was born January 11, 1822. He was a lively Abolitionist, and nothing gave him greater satisfaction than to assist fugitive slaves to Canada on the underground railroad. He amid his estimable wife spent their last years in Jasper Township. They were most excellent and worthy people, and enjoyed in a marked degree the confidence and esteem of their neighbors. To our subject and his present wife there was born a family of five children, the eldest of whom, a daughter, Sarah R., died unmarried in 1886. Martha Eliza, an interesting young lady, remains at home with her parents; James A. died in 1863, when three years old; Maggie Althea remains under the parental roof ; Mary Agnes died in Missouri in 1884, at the interesting age of eighteen years. PETER O. BENHAM., with whose name a large number of people in this county are thoroughly familiar, and who is now a resident of Xenia Township, was born in Beaver Creek Township, Greene County, November 8,1839, and is the son of Peter and Catherine (Beck) Benham who were natives respectively of Ohio and Pennsylvania. Peter Benham was born in 1795, twelve miles north of what was then a mere hamlet, upon whose site has since arisen the flourishing city of Cincinnati. He was reared amid the wild scenes of pioneer life and at the age of twenty-one years was married, in Centerville, to a lady who became the mother of twelve children. Eight of these were reared to mature years, viz.: Benjamin, Joseph; Eliza, who married Isaac Bumgardner; Sarah, Mrs. Leonard Coy; Mary J., Mrs. Joseph P. B. Johns; Lydia A., Mrs. George W. Huston ; Peter O., and Samuel. Peter Benham married for his second wife Catherine Nave, a native of Pennsylvania and the 168 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. daughter of John Nave, of Spring Valley Township. Both of Grandfather Benham's wives were members of the German Reformed Church. After his marriage he, in 1814, settled in Beaver Creek Township, about six miles east of Dayton. Taking up a tract of land, he engaged in farming after the primitive methods of tdeath afterd there resided until his death after he had reached the advanced age of eighty-seven years. His wife, Catherine, died in January, 1864. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Richard and Lydia Benham, the former of whom emigrated from New Jersey to Kentucky at a very early day and participated in many a struggle with the Indians. Later he emigrated to the present site of Cincinnati and built the third cabin on the ground. At one time he owned ten acres which is now in the heart of the city. At the time of his death, which occurred near Todd's Forks, he was the owner of one hundred and fourteen acres of land there. He had four sons: John, Richard, Peter and Benjamin, the latter of whom iofhe only one living and a resident of Indiana. One of his brothers, David Benham, was the friend and companion of the famous Indian fighter, Daniel Boone, the pioneer of Kentucky. Col. Joseph Benham, a brother of David and Richard, was a distinguished attorney at Cincinnati at an early day. Grandfather Benham served as a soldier in the War of 1812. Mrs. Catherine (Beck) Benham, the mother of our subject, was born at Waynesville, Ohio, in 1800, and was the daughter of Samuel Beck, a native of New Jersey and one of the pioneer hotel keepers of Waynesville. He came to Warren County, this State, about 1795, and married a Miss Galyard. They reared four sons: John, Samuel, Benjamin and Joseph, also four daughters. The Beck family traced its origin to Scotland. The subject of this notice was reared in his native township and attended the district shes during his boyhood, while later he entered Beaver Creek High School, which at that time was considered one of the best in the State of Ohio. He remained under the parental roof until after the outbreak of the Civil War, then enlisted October 8, 1861, in Company E, Seventy .fourth Ohio Infantry and was at the first battle of Ft. Henry. Afterward he met the enemy at Neal's Bend, Stone River, Hoover's Gap, Tullahoma, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge. Tunnell Hill, Dalton.; Dallas Gap, Pine Mountain, Chattahoochieek, Kenesaw Mountain, Chattahooclaie River, Atlanta,throughro and Savannah. He was shot througlt the right hip at Stone River and for gallant conduct was promoted to the rank of second Duty Sergeant. At the expiration of his first term he re-enlisted, January 1, 1864, and in October following was transferred as an Orderly to the Staff of Gen. Jeff C. Davis, where he remained. until being captured; February 22, 1865, at Chesterville, S. C. He was confined in Libby Prison from March 1 to April 10, then sent to Annapolis, Md., and from there to Camp Chase, where he received his honorable discharge July 27, 1865. Returning now to the peaceful pursuits of agriculture, Mr. Benham remained thus engaged until the present time. He has been an active member of the Republican party since becoming a voting citizen and has all his life, with the exception of three yeresient in Warrensburg, Me: been a resident of tis county. He was married in Xenia, February 22, 1864, to Miss Elizabeth Ann Stemble. This lady was born June 6, 1843, in Xenia and is the daughter of Jacob and Rachel (Iler) Stemble who came from Hagarstown, Md., at a. very early day. The father was a tanner by trade which he followed all his life. He died about 1850 at the age of forty-nine years. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Benham was John Frederick Stemble, a large slave owner and a manufacturer of hats in Hagerstown, Md. To him and his wife, Elizabeth, there were born four children. He. was one of the earliest settlers of this county, to which he came overland with a two wheeled cart drawn by oxen. Mr. and Mrs. Benham are the parents of three children: Blanche S., Harry F. and George Washington. Mr. Benham belongs to thp Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and with his estimable wife is prominently connected with the German Reformed Church. The family residence is pleasantly situated just east of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home. He is also connected with Lewis Post, 347, G. A. R., in Xenia. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 171 SAMUEL F. WOODWARD. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to find another man in Greene County so thoroughly contented with his lot in life as the subject of this sketch, who is one of the most prominent residents of Osborn, and whose portrait appears on the opposite page. He has abundant reason for his contentment., being blessed with the means which enable him to surround himself with every comfort and with all the reasonable luxuries of life, and allows of his retirement from business cares, excepting in so far as he desires, while his lovely home is presided over hy a lady of cultured tastes and charming manners, whose companionship is a continual delight. Mr. Woodward is thoroughly well-informed on all general topics, is finely educated and has the happy faculty of making his knowledge pleasing to those around him, being a fine convorsationalist and the soul of hospitality. His memory is a storehouse of useful knowledge, and an hour spent in his society is a pleasure at any time. Having a leading position in the affairs of the municipality, he looks well to the interests of the taxpayers, and while desirous to improve the place, endeavors to display economy in its government. The Woodward family is of English extraction, the first of the aneestors whom we note being John Woodward, a native of Massachusetts. He removed to Vermont when a young man, and opening a farm there, operated it until 1809. He then went to Cortland County, N. Y., and about seven years later to Crawford Connty, Pa., purchasing land in Spring Township. There also he opened a farm, becoming prominent, influential and well-to-do. While yet a very young man, he entered the Revolutionary Army, serving a year with the Green Mountain Boys under the renowned Ethan Allen. He died at the age of about eighty-three ears. He had married into the Washburn family, f the Green Mountain State, descendants of which have become so well-known throughout our coun- To the above-mentioned couple, near Rochester, Vt., in 1795, a son was born, who was given the name of John. He went to the Empire State with his parents when fourteen years old, and when they removed to Pennsylvania he remained behind, residing in Genesee County a year. he then joined his father in Spring Township, Crawford County, Pa., where he engaged in farming and was quite successful, becoming the owner of one hnndred and fifty acres of valuable land. He held several township offices; in politics he was a Republican, and in religion a member of the New Light Christian Church. He resided on his farm until he was four-score years old, when he sold his estate and spent two years with a daughter in Winneshiek County, Iowa. He then came to live with his son, our subject, with whom he remained nine years, after which he took up his abode with another son, at Girard, Erie County, Pa. There he breathed his last February 24, 1888, his mortal remains being deposited in Spring Township, Crawford County, where he had so long resided. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Mary Foster. She was born near Pittsburg, Pa., in 1794, and was reared there to the age of eight years, when she was taken by her parents to Crawford County, where she grew to womanhood, and in 1819 became the wife of John Woodward. She possessed great activity of both mind and body and could turn her hand to anything—weaving, housework, or any of the arts known to womankind. She was a natural mathematician, computing mentally with great accuracy, and our subject has undoubtedly inherited from her his decided bent in that direction. She entered into rest in 1856, at the age of sixty-two years. Her father, George Foster, was born in the North of Ireland and was married near Belfast. His occupation was that of a farmer. About 1792, having left his native land, he settled in Shermans Valley, Pa., the next year removing near Pittsburg. About 1802 he settled in Spring Township, Crawford County, to which his son William had gone the year before on foot. The son had selected a tract of land, bought four hundred aeres, and remained there during the summer, clearing a portion of it and constructing a rude log house. He was but sixteen years old at the time, and once a week walked six miles to an aunt, from whom he secured bread, cooking for himself the other necessaries of life. The family included six brothers 172 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and two sisters—WiHiam, Thomas, John, George, Robert, James, Isabell and Mary, the mother of our subject. John taught the first school in Spring Township and was a soldier in the War of 1812, serving as Captain in two different companies. The subject of this sketch is the fifth in a family of six children. The first-born, Mary J., Mrs. Nicholson, died in Hamilton County, Iowa; Charlotte, Mrs. Huntley, died in Erie County, Pa.; John, who was Lieutenant in the Pennsylvania militia, resides in Erie County; Caroline is the wife of H. P. Nicholson, of Winnesheik County, Iowa; George, who died in 1863, six months after his marriage, possessed a decided talent for portrait painting, and studied that branch of art in Dayton. The gentleman whose name introduces this sketch was born December 15, 1830, in Spring Township, Crawford County, Pa., and being reared upon the farm, acquired a rudimentary knowledge of agriculture in early boyhood. He had good-commonschool advantages and displayed more than ordinary ability for learning, all branches of study seeming to be easy for him, but mathematics being his special forte. At the age of nineteen he began teaching in his own township, conducting the school during two winters and spending the summers in attendance at Kingsville Academy, Ashtabula County, Ohio, from which he was graduated in the spring of 1853. The previous winter he had taught near Girard, Erie County, and the winter after his graduation he filled the Chair of Professor of Mathematics in his Alma Mater during the absence of the regular professor for four and a half months. He was well advanced in that particular branch of study and has never found his superior, being still one of the finest mathematicians in the country. In the spring of 1854 Mr. Woodward started westward, journeying on the canal to the Ohio River at Beaver, and thence taking passage to Maysville, Ky., on a river steamer. He had thought of remaining at that place and continuing his professional labors, but being dissatisfied, made his way to Iowa, where he remained a couple of months, investing the money he had saved in Government land in Blaek Hawk County. Some two years later he made a second investment, buying in Webster County, his landed possessions in the State being then over four hundred acres, which he disposed of in after years. After the short sojourn in the Hawkeye State, he returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained until August, and then took up his abode in Montgomery County, Ohio. He continued his work as a pedagogue, his first school in that county being, two and a half miles from his present home. He resided there until 1859, being employed in various pursuits during the summer, and teaching in winter. Upon locating in Osborn, he taught school for a time and then became principal of the schools at Fairfield. In 1862 Mr. Woodward abandoned pedagogical labors and became a dealer in fruit trees, continuing in the business twelve successive years. During the first five years he traveled with his men, and always came in at the end of the week with the largest list. This gave his employes confidence in him, and they did their best, his success being due to his ability to lead them and to his excellent knowledge of human nature. He followed but one thing at a time and pushed the tree business with all his might, demonstrating the worth of the old problem, "One thing at a time and that well done." He sold extensively both in the East and West, doing a business of from $20,000 to $60,000 per year. The trees were bought by large contracts from a Geneva nursery, and he thus made a nice profit each year. On one occasion he delivered $7,300 worth in a day, receiving $6,500 in cash on the first day of delivery. Feeling the severe strain upon his nervous system which the oversight of so large a business had produced, and having made enough to allow himself the desired rest, Mr. Woodward retired from the business in 1874, investing his means in lands. The following year he busied himself with the erection of the handsome residence which he now occupies, the ground for which was brokon the 1st of April. He was constantly on hand to oversee the work until the edifice was completed and ready for occupancy, November '24. The architectural design is Mr. Woodward's own, and reflects credit upon his taste and judgment. The building is by far the finest residence in Osborn; it is built of brick, is large and conveniently planned, the rooms PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 173 being commodious and airy and the home furnished fine style. Dt was erected at a cost of $10,000, and its value and attractiveness are further enhanced by the beautiful lawn and tasteful adornings which surround it. The library contains a fine selection of books, including the works of the leading authors on literary and scientific. topics, and whatever branch may be the favorite, a visitor is sure to find works at his hand which will afford him enjoyment. Mr. Woodward finds as much occupation as he desires in attending to his farms and other investments. He owns two places in Bath Township, summing up about two hundred acres, and he also was owns three hundred and twenty acres in Fremont County, Iowa, near the county seat, the latter piece of property being an improved stock. farm. In 1876 he and his wife attended the Centennial Exposition. Their social traits draw around them a large circle of acquaintances and friends, and they find abundant enjoyment in the society thus afforded them, in dispensing the hospitality of their beautiful home and in quiet pursuit of the recreations to which their tastes lead. Mr. Woodward is temperate in all things and never has used tobacco or liquor in any form. In religious views he is a rationalist and agnostic, while his wife is a spiritualist. In politics he is a Republican, but not an active partisan. He belonged to the Republican Central Committee for five years, and has at various times been a delegate to county and State conveutions, this being the extent of his political activity. He cast his first vote for John P. Hale. He was a member of the first School Board of Osboru, holding the position fifteen successive years, and having been Clerk when the schoolhouse was built. He was also a member of the first Town. Council, and has been a member of the Board for about twenty years, including his entire residence here except two years. He is undoubtedly one of the most influential members, and to his shrewdness and sympathy the taxpayers owe much. As would be naturally supposed, he is interested. in the social orders; he is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, at Osborn, and a member of the Royal Arch Mason lodge, at New Carlisle, and has been a delegate to three different Grand Lodges. It is needless to multiply words regarding the influence. which he possesses and the respect which is felt for him by his fellow-men. The marriage of Mr. Woodward and Miss Mary C. Sloan took place at the bride's home, in Mayne Township, Montgomery County, November 10, 1856. The lady whom our subject had ehosen as his companion in life was born in Lycoming County, Pa:, July 3, 1833, and was but a year old when she came to Ohio with her parents, the entire journey being performed in a one-horse covered wagon. As she grew toward maturity, she received good educational advantages and became well informed in an extended curriculum, while her home and social training was such as to promote in her the fine manners which lend an added charm to cultured womanhood. She began teaching at the age of eighteen years, but not finding the profession to her taste, abandoned it after nine months' labor. The father of Mrs: Woodward was Alexander Sloan, who was born in Lebanon County, Pa., in the part that was afterward cut off for the formation of Dauphin County. His father, John Sloan, was also a native of that eounty, and was of Scotch-Irish descent. He was a farmer, and became well-to-do through his thorough understanding of his occupation. About 1833 he left his native State and located on a farm in Wayne Township, Montgomery County, Ohio. The son followed his father's occupation successfully, but being a natural mechanic and able to make anything in woodwork, he became a fine cabinet-maker as well as a carpenter and builder. At - these occupations he labored at times, also doing coopering on his farm at Jersey Shore, Lycoming County, .Pa. In 1834 he also came to Ohio, locating in the township where his father had taken up his abode, and there occupying himself in the pursuit of agriculture, and afterward in money loaning. In addition to his Ohio property, he owned two hundred and forty acres of land in Jay County, Ind. In politics he was a Whig. He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The wife of Alexander Sloan bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Crook and was horn in Somersetshire, England. She came to America with her 174 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. parents when four years old, their settlement being made in Lycoming County, Pa. Her father, Malaehi Crook, operated a farm until his death, which was occasioned by the accidental discharge of his gun when he was getting over a fence. Mrs. Elizabeth Sloan died at the homo of one of her daughters in Champaign County, Ohio. She belonged to the Methodist Church and was the mother of seven children, five of whom are still living. Elizabeth, who was the first-born, is the wife of the subject of this sketch; James S. is living in Wayne Township, Montgomery County; Elizabeth S. lives with our subject; Lucinda R., Mrs. Powell, lives near Urbana, Champaign County ; William H. is a farmer in the same county. Mr. and Mrs. Woodward have never been blessed with any children. JACOB KIBLINGER, deceased. When the early pioneers of German Township are being mentioned, he with whose name we introduce this biography, is invariably re membered. He possessed all the reliable qualities of his substantial German ancestry—those qualities which are most needed in the settlement of a new country—and right well did he meet the demands upon him, both as a tiller of the soil, and as a member of the community. He came to this section when the country was in its primitive condition, labored faithfully and well in bringing a portion of the soil to a state of cultivation, and acquitted himself in an admirable manner as an honest man and a good citizen. A native of Rockingham County, Va., Mr. Kiblinger was born about 1783, and was reared to manhood in his native State. Then desirous of bettering his worldly condition, he emigrated, in 1801, to the Territory of Ohio, and looked over the country considerably, but did not purchase at that time. In fact he traveled back and forth a number of times before he could find a satisfactory location. Finally, in 1805, he returned to Clarke County, and selected a tract of land in German Township, that upon which his son John now resides. He purchased first eighty acres from the Government, paying therefor $1.25 per acre. Later he bought one hundred and eight acres more for which he paid $4.75 per acre. He made a permanent settlement on section 2, building first a log cabin in the woods 12x16 feet in dimensions, laying a puncheon floor, and constructing rude furniture for the use of the family. Although not by any means an elegant dwelling, this cabin furnished a comfortable home for the family for a period approaching twenty years. Then Mr. Kiblinger put up a more modern dwelling. He performed a large amount of pioneer work, felling trees, digging out the stumps, burning brush, building fences, and bringing the soil to a state of cultivation. In due time a family of eleven children gathered around the hearthstone, but of these only three are now living—John, of German Township; Ely, who is living in Kansas, and Jemima, the wife of William Young, of Kenton, this State. Mr. Kiblinger was an early member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the faith of which he died in February, 1860. He became widely and favorably known throughout the county and the confidence and esteem of the people he possessed in a remarkable degree. He was noted for his kindness of heart and hospitality, and the wayfarer was never tnrned empty from his door. In politics he was an Old-Line Whig. John Kiblinger, the son of Jacob and Mary (Pence) Kiblinger, was born September 11, 1816, in German Township, and was reared to manhood amid the wild scenes of pioneer life. He has been an eye witness of the gradual growth a the county to its present position, and has formed no unimportant factor in changing a portion of the wilderness to the abode of a civilized and prosperous people. He assisted his father in the arduous labor necessary to the opening up of a farm, and when the father was incapacitated for labor, John became praetically the manager of the farm, and the main stay of the family. When finally starting out for himself, Mr. Kiblinger was equipped with such education as could be obtained in the subscription schools, at which his attendance probably aggregated not over six months altogether. He chose agriculture for his life vocation, but for the last twelve years has been