600 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Thomas F. Houston was born four miles east of Springfield, October 7, 1818. When twenty-one years of age he went to Springfield and learned the trade of a harness-maker, after which he located in Charleston, carrying on a shop in connection with D. 0. Heiskell, a well-known horseman. After a time the connection was dissolved and Mr. Houston continued the business alone until the spring of 1862, when he removed to a farm in the extreme eastern part of Pleasant Township. From the proceeds of his business he had been able to purchase about seven hundred acres of land there and he afterward with his son, our subject, bought two hundred more. In the fall of 1867, he removed to Springfield and engaged in the saddle, harness and collar business with S. T. Irvine. This connection continued until his death, June 30, 1874. Mr. Houston possessed a more than ordinary degree of business ability which was proven by his success, he having started in life without a dollar. He was zealous in his advocacy of all public improvements, such as churches, schools, roads. etc., and foremost in prosecuting all movements which would effect them. He drew up and presented the first petition which was ever laid before the commissioners of this county under the Free Pike law. He and his wife were active workers in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he was a Class-Leader. In politics, he was a Whig and Republican. During the war he contributed liberally to the support of the Union cause and in clearing his township from draft. The wife of Thomas F. Houston was Rachel A. Delashmutt who was born in Madison County, Christmas Day, 1823. She lived until November 8, 1886, when she entered into rest. She was the mother of eleven children, as follows: Catherine, deceased ; Leon, at South Charleston; William L. of this notice; Emma C., Mrs. Yeazel ; Charles C. who died in Cedarsville; Elissa J. ; Edwin D. ; Thornton, deceased ; Howard, who died in childhood; Foster, and Maria who died in infancy. The gentleman with whose name we introduce this sketch was born on Christmas Day, 1843. He was reared in Charleston until eighteen years of age, receiving an excellent education in the common schools, and unexcelled home training. Ac companying his father to the farm he remained upon it after the latter had removed to Springfield, continuing the work which they had previously been carrying on together and adding to its extent from year to year. The stubborn persistence which is one of the qualities which he inherited from his English ancestors, has made of his business perceptions a lever with which to move circumstances around him to his own good. The mind and character of Miss Mary J. Bales, daughter of Calvin and Julia (Rigdon) Bales of Madison County, won the affection of Mr. Houston and his wooing proving successful, she became his wife June 1, 1871. The happy union has been blest by the birth of three children—Lawrance C., Maurice C. and Stella B. Mr. Houston has been quite active in the, political field, formerly as a member of the Republican party and more recently as a Prohibitionist. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was one of the foremost and largest contributors in building the new church (Nation Chapel) and has filled the offices of Steward, Trustee and Sunday-school Superintendent, ever since its erection. WILLIAM BURNS who has for many years been connected with the business interests of Springfield, was born in County Sligo, Ireland, June 20, 1833. His parents were Thomas and Bridget (Murray) Burns, the former of whom died, in his native Emerald Isle. Late in life the widowed mother came to America bringing her children of which our subject was one, and breathed her last in Yates County, N. Y., in 1874. The parental family comprised thirteen children of whom the son William was next to the youngest. The parents being poor he received but limited advantages in the way of schooling and quite early in life was thrown upon his own resources. At the age of fourteen years, Wiiliam Burns emigrated to the United States, landing at New York City whence. he went to Buffalo. There he began work as a railroad bridge builder, his labors taking him into Canada, Abandoning the railroad busi- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 603 ness he came to Springfield, and found employment in the Warder, Brokan & Childs Agricultural Works, while attending the night school. In 1857 he was seized with the western fever, and going to Omaha, Neb., he worked at the carpenter's trade and contracting about one year. Later he returned to Springfield, and for a time was engaged in the manufacture of distilled spirits. He then became connected with the Architectural Iron Works as a stockholder and director, still holding his interest in that business. At present he owns a good business house, a substantial residence on East High Street, and other property. The lady whom Mr. Burns chose as his life companion bore the maiden name of Marie Coleman, and at the time of their marriage she was residing in Springfield. She was born in the Emerald Isle and in her girlhood accompanied her parents, Peter and Bridget (Dunnigan) Coleman, to America. Her happy union with our subject has been blessed by the birth of ten children, three of whom have been removed from their sorrowing parents by death. The names of the living are Florence A., Louisa E., Mary E., Catherine B. Alice A., William T. and John Peter. Mr. Burns was at one time a member of the City Council, representing the Fourth Ward. Politically he is a stanch Democrat. His religious belief is that of the Roman Catholic Church, and he and his famhold membershipat St. Raphael's. COL. JOHN KINNANE. In whatever he undertakes, Col. Kinnane may properly be termed a "hustler" among the most active business men of Springfield. He is at present engaged as a dry-goods merchant and attends strictly to business, being in his store early and late with his coat off, metaphorically speaking, looking after his forthat seventy-five clerks and seeing thitt his customers are waited upon with promptness and courtesy. He is practically a self-made man—one who has paddled his own canoe from an early period in his life, thus gaining those independent and self-reliant qualities of character which have contributed in such a marked degree to his success in life. He is a prominent man is politics and justly earned his title of Colonel, by appointment on the staff of Gov. Campbell in 1890. The lithographic portrait shown in connection with this sketch represents the lineaments of a gentleman yet in the early prime of life, for our subject is less than thirty-six years of age, having been born September 29, 1854, in the town of Tarbert, Ireland. He is the youngest son of James and Catherine (Odell) Kinnane, with whom he spent his boyhood days and obtained his education in the country schools. When fourteen years old he began his mercantile experience in the dry-goods store of Todd & Co., at Limerick, with whom he remained. two years. In 1869 he determined to seek his fortunes in America and after several weeks spent on the ocean, landed safely at Castle Garden, N. Y. Thence he proceeded immediately to Springfield, this State, and established the business which he has since conducted so successfully. For a period of twelve years it was under the control of Kinnane Bros., and at the expiration of this time the firm became Kinnane & Wren, whih is its title at.the present time. This store occupies Nos. 19, 21, 23 and 25 Limestone Street, and the stock consists of a complete tine of dry-goods, carpets, drugs, wall paper and boots and shoes and gives employment to about ninety clerks, seventy-five of whom are salesmen. The firm does a wholesale and retail business, the Most extensive of anything of the kind in the city. By strict attention to all the details of general trade and courteous treatment of their customers, they have become widely and favorably known to a large portion of the people of Clark County and there are very few homes within its limits to which their goods have not at some time or another found entry. The subject of this notice was first married to Miss Sadie McGarr, of Springfield, who became the mother of one son, John James Kennane. She died at her home in Springfield, June 20, 1883. The present wife of Col. Kinnane was formerly Miss Molly Brady who at the time of their marriage was a resident of Tiffin, this State. The Colonel, politically, is a stanch Democrat and fully 604 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. as active in the councils of his party as he is in his business affairs. He was elected Alderman from his ward in 1880, serving one term and was one of the committee to select a site for the post-office. He occupies a neat and Comfortable home and is well known to the people among whom he is a universal favorite. JOHN W. SHIELDS, L. L. B. The task of the biographer becomes a very pleasant one when the subject of whom he is to write possess so many of the most noble traiats of character that his heart, is thrilled with admiration, and when to this is added uncommon talents or acquirements, the task is yet more pleasing. In such a mood as this the sketch of the late John W. Shields is undertaken, and although to those who knew him pit is not necessary to recount his virtues. the recital may be the means of inciting some to a better life, and encouraging those who feel that their lot is hard. In the Emerald Isle, many years 'ago, James Shields opened his eyes to the light of day, and emigrated to Virginia in 1805. There he married Miss Keziah Bain, and soon after came to this county, making a settlement two miles east of what is now the city of Xenia. This was in 1812, while the country was still new and sparsely settled, and like others of the pioneers he cleared and improved a good farm. His original estate consisted of five hundred acres, but at the time of his death he owned but three hundred and forty. Here he reared a family ,of seven children, but two of whom are now living in this county. The circle included Robert, who died in 1879; Jane, the wife of Judge J. W. Harper, of Xenia; John, the subject of this sketch; Margaret, who died young; James Harvey, who died in Kansas, in 1877; Mary B., now living in Xenia with a daughter of our subject; and William, who died on the farm in 1852. The father breathed his last on the old farm, June 13, 1839, his widow surviving until 1869, her death alSo taking place on the homestead. Mr. Shields was a member of the Associate Church, and a man of high moral character, honest, industrious and charitable. He had held the office of School Director, and labored earnestly to advance the cause of education. The subject of —this sketch was born in Xenia Township, November 20, 1817, and grew to maturity on his, father's farm. He completed his education at Hanover College, Indiana, failing to graduate on account of his near sightedness, which prevented his finishing Greek. He studied Latin and other branches, prior to his course in Hanover College, under the instruction of the Rev. Hugh McMillan, who had the first academy in Xenia, it being in the house now occupied by Miss Shields, and in which our subject died. After leaving Hanover College, Mr. Shields read law with Aaron. Harlan, of Xenia, and was graduated from the Cincinnati Law School in 1839, afterward practicing as a partner of the gentleman with whom he had previously read. He went to Mississippi, intending to locate in that State, but not being able to endure the climate soon returned. For a few years he was in partnership with Judge Barney, in Cincinnati, after which he returned to Xenia and formed a partnership with the late Hon. J. G. Gest. During the exciting days of the Clay-Polk campaign he was a strong Whig. Not long after this Mr. Shields began the study of theology under Dr. MeMasters, in Xenia, and being licensed to preach, in 1850 took charge of a Presbyterian Congregation at Bellbrook, but was compelled to resign on account of poor health. In 1849 he had an attack of cholera, for many days his life being despaired of, and the disease had so affected the system that he had to go South for two winters in order to ward off pulmonary troubles. During these winters he acted as agent for the American Bible Society, and his labors had such an effect that he became interested in the society, and organized many township auxiliaries. He is known as the father of the Spring Valley Bible Society. After his marriage, which took place September 30, 1855, Mr. Shields made his home .on a farm near Spring Valley until the spring of 1869, when he became a resident of Xenia. He had become PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 605 totally blind, but although forced to abandon some of his bright hopes for the future, he continued useful to his fellow-men, and acted as their servant on the school board, while his example in private life afforded a striking proof of his Christian faith. and character. During his term of service on the school board, to which he was elected twice, the new High School building was erected, and in that work he was active and earnest, as he was in all that promised to benefit the community. He became so familiar with the streets of the city that he rarely missed the house or office of a friend. A thoroughly loyal man, the attempt to destroy the Union roused him to earnest efforts in behalf of the united nation, and he made many speeches throughout the contiguous country, his fervid utterances rousing the desire to sustain the government in the minds of those Who were disheartened or whose zeal. needed strength. The death of Mr. Shields took place April 13, 1886: The noble old man entered into his rest, leaving one daughter, Mary, from whom these facts in hi history are obtained. The wife of Mr. Shields, in her girlhood Miss Margaret McKnight, was. born near Spring Valley, February 13, 1813, to the wife of William McKnight, an early settler there. The family came 'to this county in 1809, and the days of Mrs. Shields had been spent at her birthplace, where her marriage took place. Her demise occurred December 5, 1875. She was a good woman, whose chief aim in life was to properly fulfill the duties of wife, mother and neighbor, and she is yet re:- membered by what she has done. She belonged to the Presbyterian Church. The daughter of our subject opened her eyes to the light on the farm near Spring Valley, in 1856, but coming to Xenia in her early childhood she was educated here, being graduated in the class of 1875. She is a highly cultured woman, whose wisdom has been increased by travel and the knowledge gleaned from observation of the habits and manner of mankind in various localities, as well as by the perusal of the wise sayings of learned men. Following the teachings of her revered parents, she is a member of the Presbyterian Church. She is still living at the old home, hav ing the companionship of her aunt, Miss Mary B. Shields, who was born on the James Shields farm east of the city, and remained upon it until the death of its other inmates. In 1880, she came to the city and took up her abode with her brother. MICHAEL SHAWVER. One of the most attractive homes in German Township, Clark County, is that. of Mr. Shawver, who has resided on section 15 since 1864. His estate comprises one hundred and eighty-seven acres of land, most of which is under cultivation, and which bears a full line of improvements, including a fine residence and other appropriate buildings. The ancestry, both paternal and maternal, of our subject was German, the families having settled in Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively. His father, Daniel Shawver, came from the Keystone State to Ohio in 1803, and is numbered among the early settlers of Harrison County. There he married Mary E. Shultz, who had accompanied her parents thither from her native State. They removed to Logan County in 1836, where Mr. Shawver spent the remainder of his life, passing away in 1864. He was the father of a large family,, of whom the survivors are: Solomon, Jonathan, Daniel, Michael, Catherine and Susannah. The birth of him of whom we write took place in Harrison County, May 30, 1832. The surroundings amid which he grew to maturity were of a somewhat primitive nature, and in early boyhood he bore his share in the labors incidental to the development of a comparatively new country. Although his school privileges were quite limited, and the advantages which he had did not equal those of the present time, he laid a good foundation, and has by his unaided efforts kept himself well-informed regarding the world's work and progress. Farming has been his life-work, although when about fourteen years old he began to learn the trade of a carpenter, also acquiring that of a blacksmith sufficiently well to enable him to perform the labor required upon his farm in either trade. 606 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. The faithful and efficient companion of Mr. Shawver was known in her maidenhood as Miss Harriet Rockel. She is a daughter of Adam and Mary E. Rockel, pioneer. settlers' of this county. The rites of wedlock were celebrated between her and our subject April 1, 1854. Six children have been born of this union. They are named respectively: William H., Adam W., Joanna, Charles I., Alice A. and Viola. Joanna is the wife of R. Jenkins; Viola is now deceased. The political adherence of Mr. Shawver is given to the Democrat party. He served as Township Trustee three years, and for a lengthy period as School Director of his district. He belongs to the Patrons of Husbandry. Both he and his wife belong to the Reformed Church. The success which he has attained in worldly affairs is but the deserved result of his energy and prudence, while the reputation which he has among his fellow-men is due to one whose life has been ruled by proper principles, and who has ever manifested an interest in the welfare of those about him, and been ready to aid them in their advancement. ANDREW & BRO., the leading dealers in grain and produce in Greene County, are also engaged extensively in the grocery, hard ware and agricultural implement business, and for some years have been closely identified .with the growth and importance of Cedarville. The brothers, James H. and T. Beveridge, are the sons of 'I'. S. Andrew, who came to this county at an early day, and was married to Miss Jane McClellan, daughter of John McClellan, of Xenia, in which place various members of the family still reside. James H. Andrew. spent his younger years on the farm, and when about twenty-six years old entered the employ of Charles Houston & Co., remaining with the firm until the death of. Mr. Houston. The business then passed into the hands of David Beal, who conducted it six months and then sold out to Cleaver & Mormon, who made an assignment in July, 1875. It then went into the United States Court, where litigation was carried on for over a year, when the assignees disposed of the goods, and in 1877 the Andrew boys, in company with Houston Bros., of South Charleston, opened up another stock of goods in the same place under the firm name of Andrew & Co. The business was thus conducted until February, 1882, when Andrew Bros. purchased the interest of the other partners and have since controlled the business. At first they made a specialty of grain, and later added to their transactions and now do a business of $150,000 per annum. This speaks well for their enterprise and push, as they commenced with comparatively nothing.- They are recognized as "hustlers," and have been phenomenally successful. They own the brick building in which they do business, this being two stories in height and covering an area of 86x92 feet. The large hall over the store proper is utilized as a wareroom for their farm implements and carriages. Andrew Bros., besides this property, have three hundred acres of land and a half-interest in the Cedarville Tile Works—a large enterprise which is extensively patronized throughout the county. Each of the brothers owns and occupies a fine residence in the village, and James has property in Findlay, this State. They likewise conduct a profitable loan business, and have realized large profits by being able to discount all their bills. Their early partnership cost them $4,500, this being the profits accruing to the other members of the firm who never took any active part in the business. In the fall of 1880 James Andrew was united in wedlock with Miss Nannie Barber. This lady is the daughter of Martin Barber, an old resident of Cedarville. She was born in 1855. Of this union there are no children. T. Beveridge Andrew was born in 1852, and like his brother acquired his education in the common school. They grew up together, and in their business relations have preserved a remarkaable harmony, which has contributed largely to their success. He was married in 1883, to Miss Mary White, and they have one child. J. H. leans toward prohibition, and T. B. is Trustee of Cedar- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 607 ville Township, and adheres to the Republican party. While they stand pre-eminent among the best and most successful young business men of the county, and attend strictly to business during business hours, they still wisely devote a proper amount of time and attention to recreation, and are among the most noted checker-players in this part of the State. James is especially expert at this game, and in a series of games played was seldom ever beaten. He is also an expert chess player. ALEXANDER O. KELLER has for several years actively identified himself with the business. interests of Springfield, and as one of the leading insurance men of the city and one of its enterprising grocers he is not only achieving success for himself and advancing his financial status, but he is doing his share in promoting the welfare of his adopted city materially, socially and religiously. He was born in Baden, Germany, November 14, 1846, a son of Nicholas Keller, and a grandson of John Keller, who were also natives of that country, their birthplace being the same as his own. His grandfather was an engineer, and spent his entire life in Baden. The father of our subject was an architect of tine talent and great reputation, and was for many years in government employ. He was a life-long resident of his native land. The mother of our subject, whose maiden name was Verena Schmidt, is still living there in the land of her birth, at the venerable age of eighty-four years. She is a woman of more than ordinary force of character and vigor of intellect, and, notwithstanding her advanced age, retains her mental faculties to a remarkable degree, and writes to her son, our subject, every few weeks interesting letters, penned in a fine hand that betrays but little mark of the infirmities usual to a person whose head is frosted with the snows of more than four-score years. Alexander Keller is the only member of his parents' family who ever came to the United States, his brother August and sister Johanna still residing in Baden. Our subject was given the advantages of a liberal education in the foremost schools of Europe. His primary education was conducted at Constance, and later he attended school at Carlsruhe, and was subsequently a student in the famous universities of Heidleburg and Munich. Thus well equipped for the duties of life, after leaving college he became an architect, and practiced his profession at Strasburg, at Cologne on the Rhine, and had the advantage of a year in Paris. He returned from that city to his native land to attend to his father's business, and remained there until 1872. Ambitious to obtain a broader outlook on life, to see more of the world, and to take advantage of the opportunities offered skilled men of his profession in this country, in that year he came to America. He stayed a few months in New York, and then went to Philadelphia, where he was employed to draw plans for the Centennial buildings in Fairmount Park. He remained there until 1877 and then returned to New York, where he invested in city property, but was unfortunate in his speculation, and lost all, and after that was sick in the Fifth Street Hospital for a year. In 1879, he determined to retrieve his fallen fortunes, he made his way to Cincinnati, and wisely taking any opportunity that offered to turn an honest penny till he could find employment more congenial to his tastes, he accepted work on a farm near the city, with wages of $5 per month. He continued thus engaged until the fall of the same year, and then went to Paris, Ky., but did not find things to his liking there, and after a month's stay in that city, he came to Springfield in the month of December, 1879, and here first found employment with Frederick Holford, and remained with him six years. At the expiration of that time he had acquired sufficient capital to establish himself in business on his own account, and he opened an insurance office, which he managed successfully, but for a man of his active temperament that was not sufficient to take up all of his time, and in 1887 he bought a grocery business, and has since carried on both branches of business with excellent financial results, more than ordinary good fortune following his ventures. Mr. Keller has not only been successful from a financial point of view, but he has established a 608 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. happy home in our midst, and to her who has aided him in making it an attractive abiding place he was united in marriage in 1872, in Germany. One child, Annie Theresa, completes their pleasant household circle. Mrs. Keller's maiden name was Gertrude Majer, and she was born in Wittenburg, Germany. Mr. Keller carries his force of character and high principle into all his transactions, and- both his public and his private life are without blemish. A gentleman of his superior education and culture, capacity for business, and unswerving rectitude, is of inestimable value to our citizenship, and that his fellow-men appreciate his high qualities is shown by their calling him to aid in carrying on municipal affairs. In 1889 he was elected to the City Council, and so well did he serve the public interests he was re-elected to the same position in 1890 for a term of two years. In him the Democratic party finds one of its most intelligent supporters. He is a prominent member of St. Bernard's Roman Catholic Church, and has served as Trustee of the church. He is conspicuously identified with the following societies as a most liberal and active member of each : he belongs to the Knights of St. George and to the St. Joseph Benevolent Society, to St. Aloysius Orphan Society, and is Secretary of the St. Bernard Building and Loan Association. Mr. Keller is a fine linguist, having command of the German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek and English languages, and when he has occasion to address an audience can do so with grace and fluency. He is open-handed and warm-hearted, and the unfortunate and needy find in him a true friend. WILLIAM HENRY TUTTLE. It has been but a few years. since Clark County experienced the loss of one of her most active and successful farmers, and one whose life has done honor to the county in which he was born. This was W. H. Tuttle, who laid down the burdens of life March 8, 1885, in Aiken, S. C., whence he had gone to recruit his health. He pos sessed a large circle of acquaintances and was honored and respected by all who knew him as one whose Christian profession was not belied by his daily life. He had been a member of the Pres- byterian Church for many years and had manifested a deep interest in the advancement of the cause of Christianity, assisting in the good work of the church as well as setting an example of a devout life. In politics, he was a stanch Republican. He had been elected to positions of honor, among other ways in which he had served his fellow-men, being that of a Director of the public schools in whose progress he was deeply interested. He was one of the Directors of the Springfield and Clinton turnpike and at the time of his death was Treasurer of the Board. In Virginia, May 14, 1799, Caleb Tuttle, the father of our subject was born. He accompanied his parents to Clark County, Ohio, in 1806, and in this county, March 21, 1822, became the husband of Miss Mary Prickett. Her family were early settlers of Clermont County and of German descent. The original Tuttle family who settled here while Ohio was a wilderness have been swept away by the billows of time. The subject of this sketch was born in this county, August 2, 1838, and was reared upon a farm, performing such labors as belong to the life of a farmer's son and taking advantage of such opportunities as the country schools afforded to acquire knowledge. At the completion of the course of study taught therein, he took a commercial course in a college in Springfield and thus better fitted himself for life's responsibilities. He then returned to the farm on which he remained until after he reached his majority, when he began work on his own account as the possessor of one hundred and twenty-five acres of land given him by his father. This he improved and tilled so thoroughly that be soon acquired a competence. By dint of energy, persevering industry and excellent management, Mr. Tuttle was able to add to his homestead until he possessed five hundred acres of choice land, all of which was placed in a state of high cultivation and improvement. More than $10,000 had been expended upon it in the way of improvements, making it one of the most valuable farms in the vicinity of Harmony. Live PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 609 stock was raised and dealt in by Mr. Tuttle. He changed his residence in 1876, removing to a small farm near the corporate limits of Springfield in order that he might have a better opportunity to ((locate his children. The large farm is still held by the family, but the home is on the. thirty-five acres near the city where a substantial brick house of a modern style of architecture was built for their occupancy. The dwelling stands upon a beautiful eminence overlooking the village of. Lagonda and is furnished with all the modern conveniences The lady who presides over this pleasant home is Mary C., daughter of John and Martha A. Luse, who became the wife Mr. Tuttle October 26, 1871. She was born in this county to which her parents came as early as 1804., on September 11, 1850, and under her care and training the children whom she has borne are ripening into noble manhood and womanhood. Her happy union resulted in the of birth three children—Fanny A., Carrie D. and Clarence Isaiah. The daughters are acorn plished young ladies, whose graces of mind and heart make them charming companions and promise great usefulness in years to come. MATHEW A. BICKETT, one of the representative farmers of Xenia Township, owns and operates a fine farm lying some two and one-half miles from Xenia Court House. He is a native of Greene County, Ohio, where he was born January 19, 1831, in a house which stands only about one quarter of a mile from his present home. His father, William R. Bickett, was one of the pioneers of the county, having made choice of it for a dwelling place in the year 1818, while it was yet a wilderness. The region which had recently been the home of the Indian, shortly began to wear the aspect of civilization, as the advent of the white man caused the. original forest to disappear, and its place to be taken by fields of waving corn and golden grain. William Bickett was a native of Coaquilla Valley, Pa., where he was born in the year 1796 or 1798, the date is uncertain, and which was his home until he arrived at the age of about twenty-one, when he started for the "far West" in company with his Mother, sister, and one brother. The party reached Greene County, in the year 1818, having made the trip with a six-horse team. The first winter was passed in the house of Robert Ham men, a brother-in-law of Mr. Bickett. In the following spring he bought about one hundred and fifty acres of woodland upon which he and his brother John erected a log cabin that was the home of their mother for a number of years. As rapidly as possible they cleared and improved the farm, and provided for the wants of the mother and sister who were dependent upon their exertions. Deer, wild turkey and other game abounded, and they could always procure plenty for the table by simply using their trusty muskets. In 1827 William R. Bickett and Miss Isabella Alexander were united in marriage, and took up their residence on the old home farm. The fruit of this union was six children, three boys and three girls. The boys are all married and living within one-half mile of the old homestead. Mr. Bickett died in 1865. Mrs. Bickett survived him some twenty years, departing for the better land in April, 1885. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools, and assisted on the farm in the intervals. When school life was over, he continued to work on the home place until about the time of his father's death. May 30, 1865, our subject and Miss. Caroline E. Kendall were united in marriage. He then purchased his present place of one hundred and eighty-one acres of land, and began business for himself as a general farmer and stock-raiser. His stock consists for the most part of graded Shorthorns in cattle, and a fine strain of hogs. Mr. Bickett has no political aspirations, but exercises his rights as a citizen in favor of the Republican party. He is a highly esteemed member of society, and a devoted adherent of the church of his fathers, the United Presbyterian, and is a regular attendant upon the services of that body in the town of Xenia. Mrs. Bickett was born in Greene County in 1838, about two miles from her present home, and is an intelligent and amiable lady well fitted to make a 610 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. happy home for her husband and children. Mr. and Mrs. Bickett are the parents of seven children whose names are : Clark K.; Charles A.: William Albert; Annie M.; John W.; Elinor I.; and David Cameron, all at home, and all except the eldest attending school. Their parents are determined they shall have the best educational advantages that can be obtained, before permitting them to start out for themselves in the world. Mr. Bickett is a first-class practical farmer, and not only provides a comfortable and commodious home for his family, but also considers the wants of his stock. He has one of the finest barns in the township, it being 40x60 feet with shed and corn crib of 19 feet additional. Most of the shrubbery, and all the improvements upon the farm are the result of his own labor, and reflects great credit upon his ability and taste in the selection of the ornamental features of his beautiful home. He derives great enjoyment from the society of congeriial friends, and is deservedly popular with all classes, but finds his greatest pleasure in the bosom of his affectionate and happy family. JACOB BALDNER. The Buckeye State is fortunately situated for the development of its commercial and manufacturing interests, having along almost its entire northern border Lake Erie, which, through its connection with the other Great Lakes, and finally with the St. Lawrence and the ocean itself, brings within the reach of the State vast tracts of land with which exchange of products may be made. On the other hand, the Ohio on the south enables the people to carry on an interchange of commerce with large areas as far distant as the Gulf of Mexico, and even to the Southern Hemisphere. Countless thousands have taken advantage of this happy location, and have sought a home within the borders of Ohio. If they have brought with them a fair degree of health, perseverance and business ability, they have met with invariable success in their particular avocations. The gentleman of whom this biographical sketch is written, is yet in his early manhood ; nevertheless, he has exhibited unusual business ability, and has met with almost uniform success. At present and since the year 1886 he has had in his charge the important interests of the Field Cordage Corn pany's works, being superintendent of the same. He has built up the works, and to him in a large degree may the prosperity of the company be attributed. Since early childhood he has been associated with the twine and cordage business, his father being a rope-maker, who was skilled in the pratice of his trade. John George Baldner, the father of our subject, was a native of Baden-Baden, Germany, whence he migrated to America at an early age. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Howe, who was a native of the same place with himself, and to them was born a family of seven children, five brothers and two sisters, of whom, Jacob, our subject was the fourth in order of birth. All are now living, two in Boston, one in St. Louis, another in the West, and two here. J. G. Baldner was engaged in the rope business for a period of more than forty years, and only ceased his work at death. He survived his wife many years, she passing away in 1868, and he in 1885, in Boston. Our subject was born in Boston, November 16, 1860, and received a good practical education in the schools of that city. He early began to assist his father at his trade, becoming familiar with its details. At the age of twenty-three years he came to Xenia take charge of the Xenia Twine Factory. This position he filled acceptably for more than a year, then left it to go to Cincinnati. In the latter city he operated for George H. Bonte & Company. A few months later he went to Akron, :where he superintended the building of the Akron Twine and Cordage Company's Works. As above mentioned, he accepted his present position in 1886, and has since been connected with the Field Company's works. The wife of Mr. Baldner is a lady of varied accomplishments, refined, and well educated. She was formerly Miss Sallie M. Fleming, and is the daughter of Joseph B. and Margaret (Bosserman) Fleming, natives of Pennsylvania. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Fleming located in Ohio, and PORTRAIT AND. BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 613 became the parents of five children, who now live mostly in that State. The union of our subject and his wife occurred September 4, 1885, in Xenia, and they are the parents of one child, a bright little girl, Margueretta May, by name. Religiously, they are in sympathy with the belief of the Presbyterian Church, while politically, Mr. Baldner is a Republican. The family merit the high esteem in which they are held, and are prominent in the social circles of Xenia. EMANUEL BAKER. Among the citizens of 1 Clark County who have entered into rest after winning an honorable record, the name of Emanuel Baker is conspicuous. His life was spent in an industrious and conscientious discharge of the duties which lay before him, and since his death he has been missed not only by his family circle but by his neighbors as well, who could ill afford to spare from among them one whose example and precept were so potent for good. A peaceable and law-abiding citizen, an earnest advocate of every good work—in fact, a Christian gentleman—his memory may well be honored by those who survive him. Mr. Baker was born in Clark County, February 7, 1821, being a son of Martin and Eva Baker, early settlers here. He received his education in the primitive schools and was early thrown upon his own resources as his father died before he had entered his teens. Dependent upon his own efforts to get a start in life, he put his shoulder to the wheel with earnest determination and as a result of his labors was able to leave to his widow an excellent estate of fifty acres. His judgment concurred in the principles advocated by the Republican party to which he therefore gave his adherence. He became a member of the Reformed Church the faith of which cheered his dying hours. The esteem and confidence of his neighbors was manifested by his election to the office of Trustee of German Township. The marriage of Emanuel Baker and Drusilla Foltz was celebrated November 14,1844, and each found in the other a sympathizing companion, whose chief joy was found by the home fireside.. The happy union was blessed by the birth of two children—Lydia, wife of Isaiah Minick, of this county, and Andrew J., deceased. Mrs. Baker is a native of Rockingham County, Va., her parents, Solomon and Leah (Huffman) Foltz, also .being natives of the Old Dominion. She Was born June 30. 1824, and was ten years old when her parents removed to the Buckeye State. They located in what is now German Township, Clark County, where the mother subsequently died, the father breathing his last in Jasper County, Ill. Of the five children belonging to the parental family, Mrs. Baker is the only one known to survive. Amid the scenes incidental to the early development of an agricultural region Mrs. Baker grew to maturity, receiving a rudimentary education in the traditional log schoolhouse. In her own home she was trained in all the womanly knowledge which was practical in the households of that time and became well fitted for the position of helpmate to an industrious man. The virtues which endeared her to her husband and children and to those who knew her intimately, are recognized by all who enjoy the pleasures of her acquaintance. Her usefulness has not been confined exclusively to her own home, but from the spot which was the center of her affection she has reached out a helping hand to neighbors and, is therefore well known and highly esteemed. The many friends of Mr. Baker will be pleased to notice his portrait, which is presented in connection with his personal sketch. JAMES F. ROBINSON. Among the many men in the Buckeye State engaged in wool-growing, the gentleman above named is numbered as one who has won success in that enterprise his stock being of the Merino breed. He also carries on general farming, owning a valuable piece of property two and a half miles east of Jamestown, Greene County, it being a portion 614 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM of the Alexander Bell survey No. 1092. The estate comprises two hundred and six acres, is marked with a full line of first class improvements, and well stocked. Mr. Robinson came to Silver Creek Township in 1873 and has since made this farm his home. The ancestors of our subject were Scotch-Irish, his grandparents, William and Hannah (Homey) Robinson, having been natives of South Car lira, where they grew to maturity and were probably married. For some years they made their home in Virginia, where several children were born to them, among them being Singleton, the father of our subject. He opened his eyes to the light in 1811, being but a little lad when the family came to Ohio, settling on the present site of Dayton, when that city was a small hamlet. Grandfather, Robinson hauled the first load of stone which was used for a foundation there. A few years afterward he sold out his interest there, not expecting the place to become a city, removing to what is now Jeffersonville, Fayette County, where he was one of the first settlers. That section was then heavily timbered and he began in the woods to clear and cultivate a farm. There was neither market nor mill within thirty-five miles and the way to their home was marked by blazed trees. Here a start was made and by severe exertions a fine farm was built up, William Robinson living to see the country well improved, cultivated fields and flourishing towns taking the place of the unbroken wilderness to which he had come. He was a famous hunter in his di. y, having more than local repute, particularly as a fox hunter, although he killed a great deal of game of various kinds. He always kept a number of hounds. He lived to be ninety-four years of age, dying in 1878 and being in apparently perfect health until the moment when the breath left his body. His' wife. also lived to an advanced age. passing her eighty-eighth birthday but dying a few years before her husband. They were noble specimens of humanity, useful and respected in their day and generation, and left behind them a memory which will be lovingly cherished by their descendants. Both were members of the Christian Church, and Mr. Robinson was a Democrat. Singleton Robinson was the eldest of his father's large family, and coming to Ohio when quite small grew to manhood in Fayette County amid the surroundings of pioneer life in which he developed the habits which made of him one of the most substantial citizens of that county. He married Miss Anna James, who was born in Fayette County, being. the daughter of -old settlers who died near Jeffersonville before they had become aged. The young couple settled on a farm a few miles from the village and there Mr. Robinson is yet living, active and intelligent, although he is now seventy-nine years old. He has been very successful as a sheep-grower and farmer. He is a member of the Christian Church, to which his wife also belonged. She died in 1854, while still in the prime of life. Their family comprises four sons and two daughters, the subject of this sketch being the second born. The natal day of J. F. Robinson was April 16, 1838, and his birthplace the homestead in Fayette County upon which his father is yet living. His early life was passed there and while young in years he became acquainted with the details of farm life which he adopted as his calling. Up to the time he became a resident of Greene County he had lived near his birthplace, not being one of those who can be likened to a " rolling stone," but rather manifesting an attachment to the location which prevented his making a change except under very favorable auspices. In Miss Anna Moorman, who was born in Silver Creek Township, Greene County, May 5, 1843, Mr. Robinson found the qualities which he thought most desirable in a life companion and with her he was united in marriage. She is a daughter of Reuben and Susan (Sharp) Moorman, natives of this State, her father having been born in Greene and her mother in Brown County. The Moorman family were from Virginia and the Sharp family from New Jersey and Pennsylvania and are numbered among the early settlers of this State to which they came soon after the present century began, becoming well known, particularly in this county. Mr. Moorman died in 1871 in middle age, having been born in 1818: His widow passed away in 1884 at the age of sixty-three years. Both were in their last days members of the Friends' Church. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 615 Their family consisted of two sons and two daughters, one of them being now deceased. Mrs. Robinson is the eldest and was reared in the township which has ever been her home. She is the mother of eight children, two of whom, Anna L. and Blanche, died young. The living members of the family are Frank 0., Della M., Charles A., Reuben W., Bertha S., and Mary E., all of whom are yet at home. Mr. Robinson concurs in the principles of the Democratic party, which he therefore supports on . all occasions. He is now serving as Trustee of his Township. Both he and his wife belong to the Friends' Church of Jamestown, and possess the traits of character which win the respect of their fellow-citizens and make their lives useful. JOSEPH P. HOLLINGSWORTH. Among the well-regulated farms of Jefferson Township, Greene County, may be probably mentioned that of Mr. Hollingsworth which stands as a fitting monument to his energy and industry. It is under good cultivation, is embellished with good buildings, including a handsome two-story brick residence and all the other structures required by the .intelligent and progressive farmer. The property has been in the hands of the present proprietor since 1870 and be has now effected most of the improvements which are seen upon it. He is a man occupying a good position in his community, one who has made for himself a good record and who gives his support to the enterprises calculated for the good of the people around him, socially, morally and financially. Mr. Hollingsworth was born May 20. 1833, in Jefferson Township, Greene County, this State, and is the son of Jarius and Emeline (Gorham) Hollings. worth, who were natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Connecticut. The father of our subject learned brick-making and plastering in early manhood and followed his trade for a number of years in his native State. While yet a single man he emigrated to Ohio, locating among the earliest pioneers of Clinton County. Turning his attention now toward agriculture he secured a small tract of land from the heavy timber with the forest for miles around him, and set about the construction of a home. In due time he was joined in wedlock with Miss Gorham and they labored together with the mutual purpose in view of gaining a competence. The mother of our subject left her native state of Connecticut with her parents when a young child and afterward lived in Clinton County, this State,until her marriage. The newly wedded pair sojourned for a few years after their union in Clinton County, then removed to Jefferson Township, Greene County. There they resided until retiring from the active labors of life, when they removed to Xenia where Mr. Hollingsworth died in 1884 at the age of eighty-one years., having been born in 1804. He was a man more than ordinarily intelligent and observing, skilled as a mechanic and one who exercised no small influence among the people of his community. The mother is still living, being now eighty one years old and makes her home in Xenia. Both she and her husband were for many years members in good standing of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which the father officiated as Class-Leader and occupied other positions of trust and responsibility. Mr. Hollingsworth had been reared in the Quaker Church. To the parents of our subject there was born a family of eleven children most of whom lived- to become men and women. Joseph P. was reared and educated in his native township and when approaching manhood learned the trade of a brick-la) er and other work connected therewith under the instruction of his father. Some of the most substantial brick residences in Greene County are the work of his hands and he assisted in building all the school houses but one in Jefferson Township. In 1885, „however, he abandoned his trade and turned his attention entirely to agricultural pursuits. The subject of this notice was married on the farm where he now lives, February 16, 1860, to Miss Martha Bales. Mrs. Hollingsworth was born in Jasper Township, March 30, 1842 and was the daughter of Silas and Elizabeth (Smith) Bales who were among the oldest settlers of Greene County. 616 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Locating in Jefferson Township they there built up a good homestead where Mr. Bales spent the closing years of his life, dying when quite aged, in July 1882. He was a very intelligent man, well educated and had taught school for a number of years. Politically, he was a conscientious Democrat and was a man who made friends wherever he went. Mrs. Bales is still living being now seventy-two years old. She is a lady held in high esteem where ever known and a member in good standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Hollingsworth ‘vas reared to an attractive womanhood under the parental roof and is a lady of more than ordinary intelligence and pleasing manners. Of her union with our subject there have been born four sons and one daughter, viz: Emma E., Alonzo, Marion, Charley and Harley, twins, and all are at home with their parents. Mr. Hollingsworth, politically, supports the principles of the Republican party. While he and his estimable wife are not identified with any religious organization, there are no people in the township more decidedly in favor of strict morality, temperance and all the good qualities which go to make up a community of upright and intelligent people. TOBIAS DREES. Among those whose hands are folded after a well-spent spent life, and whose names are held in kindly he numbered him with whose name we introduce this sketch. He became a resident of Xenia in 1842, and occupied himself as a builder and contractor for a period of forty years, and until 1882. Many of the prominent residences and business houses of Xenia were erected under his supervision and bear about them the evidences of his skill, judgment and architectural taste. He had served a thorough apprenticeship as a carpenter under the instruction of the men who erected the county court-house, and which is a structure looked upon with pride by the residents of Greene County. Mr. Drees practically grew up with the city, and has formed no unimportant factor in its growth and prosperity. He rested from his earthly labors on April 19, 1889, dying at his home on Second Street in Xenia City, by whose people he was universally mourned. One of the representatives of the ninth generation of Drees, the subject of this notice, was the son of Tobias Drees, Sr., and came with his parents to America from the vicinity of Bremen, in the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg, Germany, where he was born February 19, 1819. They landed in Baltimore in February, 1832, and thence made their way to Pittsburg, Pa., where they sojourned six weeks. Young Drees during that time acquired sufficient knowledge of the English language to act as interpreter for the party accompanying them, and it was not long until he became thoroughly accomplished in the use of the English language. From Pittsburg the family removed to Minster, a German village in the northern part of Ohio, in Auglaize County, and the father, securing a tract of land, commenced farming, but later, with his son, Tobias, Jr., engaged on a canalboat, running from Troy to Cincinnati. The subject of this notice, leaving the parental roof at the age of sixteen years, was permitted to strike out for himself by returning a part of his wages to the family, which he did for a number of years. Upon one occasion, while journeying to Troy, he more than usually gave himself to serious thought, and then and there determined upon a course of honesty and industry whatever emergency might arise in life. His first work thereafter was as a teamster; next he was porter and del* in an hotel. Upon reaching his majority he determined to become master of some trade, and first tried his hand at coopering. He soon decided, however, this was not his forte, and after a three weeks' trial abandoned it for something more congenial—after having secured an amicable release from his indenture. Young Drees now took up carpentering under the instruction of the late firm of Crandall & Brown, of Troy, engaging with them in 1842. They had the contract for building the Greene County Court. House, and the families of the firm removing to Xenia, brought Mr. Drees with them, and he continued with the firm until completing PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 617 his apprenticeship. He ,then started in business for himself in the same building which they occupied. His beginning was a very modest one, but his strict attention to his own concerns and his promptness and reliability in serving his patrons, in due time secured him a large and lucrative business. Ile was thus occupied until 1883, and then became interested in the manufacture of twine, and assisted in organizing the Xenia Cordage Company, in which he became a prominent stockholder and acted as Treasurer until his death. To whatever position Mr. Drees was called he gave to it his conscientious attention, and his word was considered as good as his bond. He took a lively interest in the welfare and growth of his adopted city, and was foremost in encouraging the enterprises tending to this end. He served in the City Council two terms, and officiated as a member of the School Board. He invested a portion of his capital in some excellent farm property, and for the comfort and gratification of his family erected one of the finest residences in the city, this being pleasantly located on Second Street near the First Methodist Episcopal Church. In all the relations of life he preserved the same equable temperament which constituted him a kind husband and father, a hospitable neighbor, and a man who never turned a deaf ear to the call of distress, or failed to aid a philanthropic enterprise. Under the ministry of the late Rev. John W. White, then stationed in Xenia, Mr. Drees was awakened and converted—so thoroughly and soundly converted that never once while he lived did his faith in Christ waver or falter. Although born and carefully trained in the Roman Catholic faith, he united at once with the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which for nearly fifty years he was conspicuously wise as a leader, liberal as a supporter and exemplary as a Christian. There was no self-reliance, no boasting of great attainments, but rather a uniform piety working out practical results, producing genuine fruits, forming the character, regulating the life. His pleasant home was open night and day for the entertainment of ministers. As an official member of the church, holding at various times the offices of Steward, Trustee, Class-Leader and Sunday-school Superin tendent, he was always in his place, shirking no duty, cheerfully meeting every responsibility. To the great doctrines of the Bible as expounded by Wesley, he gave whole-hearted assent, and though by no means a narrow sectarian, he was very strongly attached to his own denomination. He was not ordinarily very demonstrative in his religious life, but there were times when his prayers and his testimony were accompanied by an unction that was quite remarkable. As he drew near consciously to the end of his pilgrimage, his testimony in the class-room and prayer-meeting was given with increasing assurance of faith and more and more in the tone of a victor. He was for a long time deprived of the public means of grace, and the nature of his affliction was such that toward the last he spoke with great difficulty. When in February last he was thought one night to be dying, and he himself believed that the shining shore was almost in sight, he requested his brother-in-law, the Rev. Dr. W. L. Hypes, to write down his experience, which he gave in three texts of Scripture, as follows: " I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord." "Great peace have they who love thy law, and nothing shall offend them." "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." Tobias Drees was married December 31, 1846, to Miss Maria Hypes. This lady was born in Xenia, April 25, 1825, and is the daughter of Henry and Sarah (Wright) Hypes, who came hither as early as 1811 from Virginia. Mr. Hypes was a native of the Old Dominion, and was born June 11, 1775. He was first married in his native county, and his wife died in Xenia a few years after their arrival here. On the 24th of March, 1824, he was married to Mrs. Sarah Wright, who became the mother of Mrs. Drees. Mrs. Hypes is now deceased. When settling in this county Mr. Hypes secured a tract of land, upon which he carried on farming a number of years, and which later became very valuable on account of the town extending that way, the latter now comprising a part of the old homestead, which lies on the south side of the city. After a well-spent life, Mr. Hypes departed hence, October 1, 1854, in the eightieth year of 618 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. his age. His daughter, Maria, was reared and educated in her native place, where, up to this time she has spent her entire life. She was one of a family of twelve children, six of whom are living. EDWARD NEWLOVE. The veteran farmer and stock-raiser, although approaching the seventy-ninth year of his age, is still actively engaged in his chosen calling, and is pleasantly located on a well-developed farm in Hermony Township, Clark County. He presents an admirable example of the results of industry and economy, and from a modest beginning in life has climbed up to a good position, socially and financially, among his fellow-men. His native place was on the other side of the Atlantic, in Woldnewton, Yorkshire, England, and the date of his birth November 26, 1811. In noting the family history of Mr. Newlove we find that he is the son of .Joseph and Ann (Hornsey) Newlove, who were natives of the same place as their son, where they were reared and married, and lived until 1821. Edward was then a lad ten years of age. That year they decided upon emigrating to America, and coming directly to Ohio located on the land he now owns and occupies. The parents endured many of the hardships incident to the early settlement of the county, and the mother after a residence of twenty years in 'America, departed this life at the homestead, in 1841. Joseph Newlove survived his wife only seven years, dying in 1848. He was a life-long farmer by occupation, and became well-to-do, accumulating three hundred and twenty acres of land. Of this our subject owns two hundred and forty five acres. The parents were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their family consisted of four sons and four daughters, all of whom with the exception of one daughter came to the United States. The latter died in England, leaving one son, Joseph Tennock. The subject of this notice attended school in his native England, where he received the most of his education. He was taught to make himself useful on the farm at an early age, and shortly after reaching his majority began making arrangements for the 'establishment of a home of his mown. With this end in view he was married, in January, 1833, to Miss Ann Carter, daughter of Lewis and Sarah (Calvert) Wood. Mrs. Newlove was born in Virginia, and emigrated with her parents to Ohio at an early day, they settling in Clark County. This union resulted in the birth _of seven children, viz.: Edward Hornsey, deceased ;*Mary F., George B.,' Sarah J., Henry O., Robert W. and Benjamin W. Mr. and Mrs. Newlove have for many years been members of the Methodist Protestant Church. During the Civil War Mr. Newlove was an active supporter of the Union cause, and his son, Henry 0., served three years in the Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry and the Eighth Cavalry. Mr. Newlove is the only survivor of his father's family. Mrs. Newlove's father, Lewis Wood, was the only child of John Ennis and Frances (Carter) Wood. They lived and died on James River. After the death of John E. Wood, his wife made her home with her son Lewis until her death, which occurred while living in Thoroughfare, Prince William County, Va. The grandparents of Mrs. New-love on the mother's side were John and Winnefred (Smith) Calvert, natives of Virginia, near Dumfries. The grandfather died in that State, but the grandmother emigrated to Portsmouth, Ohio. She married a second time after coming to Ohio a man by the name of Moore, and removed to Muncie, Ind., where she died. CHANDLER ROBBINS. This gentleman, who is an honored resident of Springfield, and a native of that city,traces his ancestry to one of the Puritans who landed from the "Mayflower" at Plymouth Rock. Through all the years which have elapsed since that event, the stern integrity, industry even amid discouraging circumstances, and sturdy self-reliance which characterized the first settlers of New England, have not been lacking in the Robbins family. Isaac Robbins, the grandfather of our subject, was born in New England, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 619 but resided for many years in Alexandria, Va., in which his death occurred. For years he was clerk in a bank, and he was also a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife was Mary Douglas Howell, of excellent lineage. The Rev. Chandler Robbins, son of this worthy couple, was born in Alexandria, Va., but educated in New England. He first attended school in Maine, working in a cabinet shop to earn the wherewithal to pay his expenses. From the Pine Tree State he went to Connecticut and entering the Wesleyan University at Middletown, was in due time graduated from that institution of learning." In 1841, he came to Springfield, Ohio, to take charge of the Methodist Episcopal High School, a position which he held about five years, when he resigned. to accept the chair of Ancient Languages at Augusta College, in Kentucky. After remaining in the Blue Grass State three years, he returned to Springfield and opened a select school, in which he taught the greater part of the time until his death in May, 1871. He was one of the best educators of his day, possessing a large degree of the enthusiasm = which spreads contagion among students, and the tact necessary to present various topics in a manner suited to the varied mental capacities and needs of those under his charge. His store of knowledge was broad and deep, and he was not content with his early acquirements, but with progressive spirit continued his reading and study, keeping up with the times in history and science. Soon after coming to Springfield, he was ordained Deacon of Christ Episcopal Church, subsequently becoming Priest, and for several years having charge of the church. He was much respected, and many are the loving remembrances which his name evokes. It is not alone from his paternal ancestors that the subject of this sketch derives his love of learning and other fine qualities. His mother, who bore the maiden name of Laura Cooper, possessed a bright mind, and received as fine an education as the status of woman in her girlhood would allow. Reading and contact with cultured society added to her acquirements, and her family cares were not allowed to swallow up her mental activity. She was born in Middletown, Conn., being a daughter of Judge Samuel Cooper, and died at Suffolk, Va., where she had gone for her health, in December, 1887. She reared three children: Elizabeth, Chandler, and Mary D. The latter married the Rev. Mr. Hooff, of Alexandria, Va., an Episcopal minister now located at Detroit, Mich. The gentleman with whose name this sketch is introduced, was born in February, 1844, and was not reared in idleness. He attended the city schools one year, with that exception receiving his education at the hands of his father, and becoming a man of high mental culture and extended knowledge. In the intervals of study he found employment of various kinds, among the occupations of his youth being clerking and teaming. The spirit which led his Puritan ancestors to America, led young Robbins to devote his youthfnl strength to the Union cause, and in 1861, when but seventeen years old, he became a member of Company B, Eighty-sixth Ohio Infantry. After serving four and a half months he was honorably discharged, and returned to his .home, whence he again enlisted in 1863 in the Seventeenth Ohio, Battery. He served four months with that body, and was then transferred to Company I, Eightieth United States Colored Troops, with the commission of Second Lieutenant. In this regiment he remained gallantly fulfilling his duties until 1866, when the regiment was honorably discharged, and he left the army with the brevet of Captain. When discharged, the regiment was in Louisana, and there Mr. Robbins rented a plantation which he operated until his crops were destroyed by the flood in 1867, when he returned to Springfield. He was engaged in various enterprises with fluctuating success until 1873, when he went to New Mexico to accept the position of civil engineer, and assist in the Government surveys of that Territory. In 1875 he was appointed United States Surveyor and Astronomer, taking the contract to survey and define the boundary line between New Mexico and Arizona, and lay out the Mojave Indian Reservation. Remembering that Mr. Robbins was but thirty years old at this time, we see that he had made excellent use of his opportunities, and that his attainments and trustworthiness were recognized by those in authority. His labors being completed in 1876, he returned to Springfield, and in 1878 620 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. bought a manufacturing plant known as the Lever Wringer Company. In 1880 the buildings being destroyed by fire, others were erected, the present edifices of the establishment being located beside the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad track between Main and Florence Streets. The business of the company has been lately, extended, their specialty being gray iron castings. Associated with Mr. Robbins in business, are J. A. Myers & C. F. McGilvray. The pleasant home of Mr. Robbins is presided over by a lady who became his wife in 1877. She was known in her maidenhood as Miss Meta M. Hunt, is a native of Urbana, and a daughter of Maj. William Hunt. She is an educated, sympathizing, and altogether charming woman in whom the heart of her husband can safely trust. They have two children living, named respectively, William H. and Douglas. Their first-born, a son Chandler, died at the age of seven months. Mr. Robbins is a stanch Republican, and he and his wife belong to Christ Episcopal Church. LEFFARD H. PURSELL, Manager of the O. S. Kelly Company, at Springfield, has been connected with this enterprise since the year 1865, and is otherwise recognized as one of its most prominent citizens. He is well-to-do, financially, and occupies an elegant brick residence on West High Street, which, with its surroundings, forms one of the attractive homes of the city. Both socially and in business Circles he maintains an enviable position, and is contributing his quota to the material welfare of the city. A native of New Village, Warren County, N. J., the subject of this notice was born January 15, 1842, and is the son of William and Mary (Hance) Pursell, who were natives of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and who spent their last years in Lancaster, Ohio. William Pursell was a blacksmith by trade, and a manufacturer of wheat drills. He left his native State in 1856, removing to Lancaster, Ohio, where he carried on the manufacture of wheat drills and other implements up to the time of his death. He was a native of Pennsylvania, whence he removed to New Jersey early in life. The wife and mother was born in the latter State, and died during the sojourn of the family in Lancaster, Ohio. The household consisted of ten children, five sons and five daughters, of whom three sons and two daughters are still living, our subject being the youngest son born. Mr. Pursell, of this notice, acquired his education in the public schools, and also assisted his father in the factory until the outbreak of the Civil War. He then entered the Union Army as a member of Company I, Seventeenth Ohio Infantry, his regiment being under the command of Col. John M. Connel, and the division commanded by Gen. Thomas. They joined the Army of the Cumber land, and Mr. Pursell took part in many of the battles in which his regiment engaged, participating in some of the most important of the war, timely: Stone River, Chickamauga, Atlanta, and others of lesser note. At Chickamaugua, Sunday, September 20, 1863, he was wounded, which disabled him however only for a short time. In October, 1861, at the expiration of his term of enlistment he received an honorable discharge, and returned to his home in Lancaster. Desirous of a further knowledge of business methods, Mr. Pursell now repaired to Pittsburg, Pa., and took a full course in the Commercial College, from which he was graduated in 1865. In February, that year, he emigrated to Springfield, this State, and entered the employ of McLennan & Bro.,manufacturers of threshers, as book-keeper, and with them he remained until the change of the firm, aid was retained by their successors, McClennan, Cushman & Rinhart; Rinhart and Ballard were their successors, and he continued with the latter as a junior partner until 1882, when they sold out to the Springfield Engine & Thresher Company, which afterward was changed to the O. S. Kelly Company, which was organized in the early part of 1890, with Mr. Pursell as manager. He is also a stockholder in the business which is now confined to the manufacturing of threshers and engines. The subject of this notice was joined in wedlock with Miss Louisa Myers, in April, 1868, at the resi- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPIIIAL ALBUM - 623 dence of the bride's father in Springfield. Mrs. Purse!! is a native of Maryland, and the daughter of Nimrod and Mary (Lushbaugh) Myers. She remained with her parents until her marriage, and is now the mother of four children—Charles, Harry. Estella and Mabel. Mr. Pursell spends very little time over politics, although keeping himself posted upon event of general interest, and giving his support to the Republican party. He is a member of Clark Lodge, No. 101, F. & A. M.; Palestine Comrnandery, No. 33, K. T. ; and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, No. 51. He represented the Third Ward in the city council one term. The family residence is pleasantly located on West High Street. JOHN A. ROSS. One of the most valuable farms of Jefferson Township,Greene County, is that which has been under the management of Mr. Ross since 1877, and which has now become a valuable piece of property and the source of a handsome income. It is two hundred and forty acres in extent and is pleasantly located. Mr. Ross settled upon this farm as early as 1848, and later became the owner. He has been more than ordinarily successful as a tiller of the soil, an occupation with which he has been familiar since his boyhood. About the time of reaching his majority, he located on this farm with his father and here he has since maintained his residence. Mr. Ross was bore July 17, 1827, in Monroe County, located in what is now West Virginia. His father, Robert Ross, was a native of Montgomery County and born near the line of "the old and new States. The paternal grandfather, John Ross, was a native of Ireland and of Scotch-Irish ancestry. John Ross when a mere child, was orphaned by the death of both parents and crossed the Atlantic with an older brother and sister. They settled in Tennessee where Grandfather Ross developed into manhood but removed to Montgomery County,Va., prior to reaching his majority. He was there married to a Miss McDonald, who was born and reared in Virginia and was of ancestry similar to his own. They settled on a farm in that county and there spent the remainder of their lives, dying when ripe in years. They were people remarkably kind and hospitable and became widely and favorably known throughout that region. The father of our subject was one of the younger members of a large family and remained under the parental roof until reaching manhood. Then going into Monroe County, W. Va., he was in due time married to Miss Susannah Alexander. The latter was born and reared in Monroe County and is the daughter of Matthew Alexander who was of Irish parentage and who lived for many years in Monroe County, Va., spending there his last days. He was married in Virginia to a Miss Black, and later they settled in Monroe County, that State, and Mr. Alexander followed farming the remainder of his life. He and his wife died at the old 'farm when quite aged. They were members of the Seceder's Church. Robert Ross and his wife lived for some years after their marriage at the farm belonging to his wife's parents, where he followed agriculture and also conducted a grist and saw mill. They became owners of a farm which they lived upon about ten years. Then selling out his property in Monroe County, the father started for Ohio with his family, making the journey overland with teams. They traveled after the fashion of that day, camping and cooking by the wayside and sleeping in their wagons at night. They finally arrived at their destination—Jefferson Township, Greene County—where Mr. Ross took up land and began in true pioneer style to cultivate the soil and build up a homestead. By great industry and perseverance he in time provided his family with all the comforts of modern life. He made for himself a good record as a man and a citizen and departed hence in 1877 at the advanced age of eighty-four years. The wife and mother had passed away ten y ears prior to the decease of her husband, at the age of sixty-five. Both were members of the Seceder's Church. Mr. Ross in early life was an old line Whig, but later identified himself with the Democratic party whose principles he supported until his death. John A. Ross of whom we write was the eldest 624 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of the four sons born to his parents, one of whom, James, died when twenty-four years old. William and Thompson are both residents of Greene County. Mr. Ross, religiously, follows in the footsteps of his honored parents belonging to the Seceders' Cnurch and like his father, politically, he is a stanch Democrat. A portrait of Mr. Ross is shown another page of this volume. ANDREW M. DUNN, proprietor of the Fairfield Mills, is retoinized as one of the most intelligent and energetic men of Greene County. He was horn in Lockland, this State, August 22, 1839, and was taken to Illinois by his parents when quite young, living there until a boy of seven years. They then returned to Lockland, traveling by wagon over corduroy roads and through swamps, and Mr. Dunn remained thereafter a resident of his native place until the outbreak of the Civil War. In the meantime he commenced the battle of life for himself at the age of ten years, finding employment in a flourmill and becoming master of the business at which he worked until a youth of eighteen. In April, 1861, young Dunn entered the Union Army as a member of Company G, Sixth Ohio Infantry, mustered for three years and being mustered into the service at Camp Denison. He went to Virginia with his regiment and met the enemy at Laurel Hill, Carrick's Ford and -Ft. Donelson and was continuously with his regiment, which was the first to enter the city of Nashville. His company had the honor of 'taking the rebel flag from the court house and placing in its stead the stars and stripes. One Captain Driver presented them with a fine Federal flag which he had hid in a feather bed. Subsequently Mr. Dunn fought at Shiloh, Perryville and Stone River. At the latter place his brother was wounded and he carried him a mile on his back. They were then captured and Mr. Dunn was permitted to care for his brother and succeeded in saving his life. He exerted himself to be agreeable, making the coffee and soup for the soldiers and gained the good will of the surgeon, whom he induced to operate carefully on his brother with satisfactory results. In twenty-four hours he was rescued, and rejoining his regiment participated later in the battles of Chickamauga, and Mission Ridge, and Went with the command through Georgia to Atlanta, soon after which his term of enlistment expired. Returningheen to Cincinnati, in June, 1864, he was mustered out and received his honorable discharge. Mr. Dunn experienced many hairbreadth escapes, his clothes at Stone River being pierced by bullets, but he returned unharmed to his old haunts. At Lockland he resumed the miller's trade and afterward became foreman of his uncle's paper-mill where he rlemained until February, 1866. His next venture was the purchase of his present mill, which he bought from James M. Brannum, which was greatly out of repair and had not been regularly operated for some time. He effected many improvements, put everything in good shape and prosecuted a successful business until 1884, when he enlarged his facilities by putting in the roller process. As water had become too scarce to operate it to good advantage, in 1887 he added more rollers and put in steam power. The mill has now a capacity of fifty barrels per day and is patronized by the people all over this section of the country. Mr. Dunn was married in Fairfield, December 31, 1866 to Miss Mary Scudder. She was born in Fairfield, July 31, 1847, and is a daughter of William Scudder a native of New York State and a saddler by trade. Mr. Scudder in early life removed to New Jersey and thence to Fairfield, this State, where he occupied himself at saddlery and harness-making, doing a large and lucrative business. He finally retired upon a competency, and is now living with our subject, being seventy-seven years old. He was, during his younger years, a prominent man in the community and for a quarter of a century, officiated as the Postmaster of Fairfield. The mother of Mrs. Dunn bore the maiden name of Sarah M. Hart. She was born in New Jersey and died in Fairfield New Year's day, 1885. To her and her husband there were born five children. three girls and two boys. The brothers and