700 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the age of four years and seven months; and two daughters who died in young ladyhood. Jennie E. passed away January 5, 1878, al, the age of nineteen years, and Maggie, May 3, 1881, at the age of twenty-one years. Both these young ladies were graduates of the High School of South Charleston and had been engaged in teaching. The death of each was occasioned by exposure in going so far to school. PRESTON GLASS, one of the older settlers and successful farmers of Silver Creek Township, Greene County, occupies a farm on the Waynesville Pike two miles from Jamestown. The place upon which he resides comprises sixty-five acres under careful and intelligent tillage and bearing substantial edifices which include all the buildings necessary for the comfort and convenience of the occupants. This place belongs to Mrs. Glass, a tract of one hundred and twenty acres in another part of the township being owned by our subject who is also the fortunate possessor of a fifty-acre farm in Jefferson Township. These pieces of property are also well improved and possess considerable value, as good land in this county always does. Since he became of age Mr. Glass has been identified with the farmers of the county and his career has been a most successful one. In the biography of Vincent Glass; which is included in this volume, a fuller history of the family will be found, it sufficing us to say in this connection that our subject belongs to old Virginia stock and is himself a native of Campbell County, in the Old Dominion, where his eyes opened to the light July 4, 1821. He is the youngest but two in a family of twelve children, and was about seven years of age when the family came to Ohio, locating in the borders of this township. He well remembers their journey overland and the camping by the wayside, together with the early life in this section, which was of the time of their arrival comparatively new. The family being in limited circumstances, the children were obliged to assist in the upbuilding of the home, and our subject was reared without the advantages of an education. He has been obliged to depend upon his natural judgment .and the knowledge gained from observation, instead of upon information gained from books. The first marriage of Preston Glass took place in this township, his chosen companion being Miss Susannah Sheley, who was born here April 2, 1820. Her parents, Benjamin and Mildred (Strong) Sheley, were pioneers in this section whence they had collie from Virginia. She had grown to maturity in this township which had been her home during all the years prior to her marriage, although her parents afterward spent some time beyond the limits of the county. She proved herself an able assistant to her husband by her good counsel and able management of household affairs. She died at her home in this township, September 3, 1886, deeply mourned by her family, in whose sorrow many friends sympathized, her goodness being known to a large circle of acquaintances. She was a member of the Christian Church. She had borne nine children, of whom we note the following: John W. died when quite young; Nancy L., leaving one child; Mary E. when two years of age; Huldah, after having borne four children, her death being occasioned by her clothing having caught fire and burned her so badly that she survived but a fortnight. Laban lives on a farm in Paulding County; Benjamin is a groceryman at Ogden, his wife being Miss Mary Etta Hill; Justus N. war-tied Rachael Bryan and occupies a farm in this township; Catherine C. is the wife of Frank Williams, a farmer of Paulding County; Eliza J. is the wife of John C. Fichthorn and lives on the old Glass homestead in this township. The present wife of Preston Glass was in her girlhood Miss Mary Elizabeth Turner. She was born in this township in 1835, and married here November 22, 1887. Her parents, Levi and Polly (Sanders) Turner, were married in this township. Mr. Turner was a native of Ohio and his wife was a native of Kentucky. They lived to be quite old, gaining a high degree of respect from their fellow-citizens in. the community where they had passed a long and successful life. They were members of the Baptist Church to which their daughter belongs. She is still occupying the house in which she was PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 703 born and where she grew to womanhood, learning useful habits and practicing them in her life. Mr. Glass attends the Christian Church; in politics he is a Republican. In common with other members of the family he is held in good repute by all to whom he is known. JAMES W. BABB. Among those stable and reliable citizens who have been pursuing the even tenor of their way and assisting in sustaining the reputation of the community, may be properly mentioned Mr. Babb, of Caeesar's Creek, Greene County, who for the last' fifteen years has been engaged in milling, operating both saw and grist mills. His native place was the city of Xenia and the date of his birth May 8, 1837. Ms parents were James M. and Hannah (Smith) Babb, who were both natives of Frederick County, Va., the father born January 17, 1811, and the Another June 4, 1817; They were married in their native county in 1834. The father of our subject learned carpentering in early manhood, and remained in his native State until the year above mentioned. Then, soon after his marriage, be decided upon seeking his fortune in the Buckeye State, and coming to this county, established himself in Xenia as a carpenter. Later, he farmed two years in Clinton County, ever, maintaining his residence in Xenia. He died in this city, March 27, 1876. The wife and mother passed away many years prior to the decease of her husband, her death taking place March 28, 1852. Of this union there were born seven children, five sons and two daughters, four of whom are living, viz: James W., our subject; Thomas M., George H. and Charles S., the latter a teacher and farmer in De Kalb County, Mo. The father of our subject married for his second wife Susan McCreary, who was a native of Ireland, and who came to America with her uncle when a. maiden of eighteen years: This union resulted in the birth of three children, namely: Lon H.; Grace A., the wife of David V. McClellan ; and Lizzie R., the wife of Jan McClain, of Greene County.James Babb was a very intelligent and well-informed man, during his later years a Republican in politics, and with his first wife, belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church. The paternal grandfather of our subject was Henry Mercer Babb, likewise a native of Frederick County, Va., and who married Miss Grace McCool. To them were bOrn seven children, viz: Mary, Eliza, Deborah, Harriet, Thomas, James and Henry M. With the exception of Thomas, they were all married and reared families. Grandfather Babb was a farmer and miller combined, and during the early days was a slaveholder. He likewise belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church and spent his entire life upon his native soil. The paternal great-grandfather of our subject was Thomas Babb, who married Blanche Mercer. He was born and reared in Pennsylvania, whence he removed to Virginia and occupied himself as a carpenter and farmer. His eldest son, John, met his death on the battlefield during the Revolutionary War. Thomas and Henry H. were married and became the fathers of a number of daughters. The family is supposed to be of English and Irish origin. Mrs. Hannah (Smith) Babb was the daughter of John S. Smith, a native of Virginia, a soldier in the War of 1812 and a farmer by occupation. He married Miss Susan Crouse, of Frederick County, Va., and they became the parents of the following children, all of whom lived to mature years: The sons were Charles, John, Henry, Philip and Seth. The daughters were Jane, Hannah, Caroline, Sarah and Mary. John Smith,the father of John S. Smith, was a native of Prussia and a Captain in the English army during the Revolutionary War. He was captured by the Federal troops, and after the war was over, remained in America, taking the oath of allegiance, and becoming a teacher of the German and English languages. The subject of this notice was reared to man's estate in the city of Xenia, acquired his education in the common schools and at an early age evinced more than ordinary musical talent. He finally became a teacher of the art, and followed this profession for some time during his younger years. He was first married, February 11, 185S, to Miss 704 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Angeline Hays, of Clinton County, this State. This lady was the daughter of Joel and Sarah (Rayborn) Hays, of Clinton County, and of their union there were born two children, the eldest, Mary E., became the wife of John Lineinger; Amanda E. died at the age of nineteen years. The wife and mother departed this life July 7, 1862. Mr. Babb contracted a second marriage June 11, 1863, with Miss Louisa Lacy. This lady was born June 29, 1835, in Clinton County, this State, and is the daughter of John J. and Ruth (Brown) Lacy, the latter deceased. The father is still living, and is a farmer by occupation. About 1855 Mr. Babb removed to Clinton County, where he sojourned until January, 1879. He then changed his residence to Painterville, where he occupied himself in carpentering and milling. Since becoming a voting citizen he has given his allegiance to the Republican party. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1882, and is still serving. Both he and his estimable wife are members in good standing of the Christian Church. A lithographic portrait of Mr. Babb is presented in connection with this biography. JOHN B. DUNKEL. The town of Enon, Clark County, has been brought to its present position by the enterprise of a few such men as Mr. Dunkel, whose industry and energy have not only placed him in good circumstances financially, but, have had a perceptible influence upon those around him. The stimulus of competition is perhaps more effective in urging men to exertion than anything which can be named, and there are few in this vicinity who have not had their ambitions quickened by noticing the career of the subject of this sketch. He is regarded as a business man of more than ordinary capacities, is shrewd and self-reliant, the architect of his own fortune, while at the same time one seldom meets a more genial or affable man, or one with whom an hour can be spent in a more pleasant and profitable manner. A native of the Keystone State, Mr. Dunkel was born near the town of Lancaster; November 20, 1847, and was there reared on a farm, receiving such education as was afforded by the common schools. His father, John Dunkel, a substantial citizen of excellent character, is represented on another page in this volume. John B. when a lad of sixteen years came with his father to this county, in the spring of 1864, and remained a member of the parental household for six years thereafter. Then, ready to establish a fireside of his own, he was wedded to Miss Rebecca, daughter of Reuben Shellabarger, at the bride's home in Mad River Township, September 29, 1870. The Shellabarger family is duly represented on another page in this work. After his marriage Mr. Dunkel operated the old homestead until the spring of 1871. He then rented a farm, in partnership with his brother-in-law one year, and that practically wound up his agricultural operations. In the spring of 1872 he associated himself in partnership with Samuel Arthur, and they purchased a stock of goods, and establishing themselves at Enon, conducted a store of general merchandise four months. Mr. Dunkel then purchased the interest of his partner, and enlarging his facilities for business, has continued merchandising until the present time with very satisfactory results. In the year 1885 he took his brother Abraham into partnership, and under the firm style of J. B. Dunkel & Bro., they enjoy the bulk of the trade in their own town, and carry the largest stock of goods. Their store is conveniently arranged, and contains nearly everything which can be mentioned in connection with the village or country household. Mr. Dunkel owns the store, besides his residence and other farm property, and occupies one of the pleasantest homes in the place. To Mr. and Mrs. Dunkel there have been born two children, the eldest of whom, a daughter, Clara, is attending Wittenberg College, and expects to graduate in time class of 1894; Harry remains at home with his parents. Mr. Dunkel is a member in good standing of the Christian Church, in which he officiates as Trustee, and politically, he gives his allegiance to the Democratic party. He has frequently been sent as a delegate to the various conventions, and is a member of the Democratic PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 705 Central Committee. Since 1879 he has officiated as Township Treasurer, and has been Town Treasurer for the past ten years. The cause of education finds in him a firm friend. He has been a member of the School Board, also of the Council. Socially, he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Fairfield, and he is Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias at Enon. ANDREW DEFFENBACH, dealer in feed, also keeping a livery stable, has been a resident of Springfield forty-one years. He is of German ancestry, coming from good old stock who made a home in Pennsylvania for many years. In that State his grandfather, Jacob Deffenbach, is believed to have spent his entire life. There David Deffenbach, Jr., was born and reared to agricultural pursuits. After reaching manhood the latter married Barbara Rohrer, like himself a native of Lancaster County, whence they removed to York County. There the wife died in 1841, when her son, our subject, was eleven years old. The widowed father removed to Dauphin County, whence in 1866 he came to Springfield to spend his last years with his son. For some years he kept a hotel in the Keystone State and he had served as Sheriff of Lancaster County. The natal day of Andrew Deffenbach was January 5, 1830, and his birthplace the county of which his parents were natives. When his mother died the home was broken up and from that time he earned his own living. He first found employment with a farmer in Dauphin County, receiving $3 per month and his board for the labor which he performed, and remaining with the same man until be was fifteen years old. He then came to Springfield, Ohio, with his brother-in-law, his first employment here being on the railroad. Later he became a farm laborer on property three miles east of town, and being industrious and economical he was soon enabled to engage in the livery business. In 1865, he built a stable which is centrally located and the seat of a flourishing business. It occupies a site on the west side of Limestone Street between Main and Columbia Streets, and has a frontage of seventy-three feet and a .depth of two hundred. Its full capacity is taxed to accommodate the steeds and vehicles, together with the various other appointments of a well-equipped livery stable, and furnish accommodations for the patrons of the institution. The estimable Christian woman who in 1858 linked her life and fortune with that of Mr. Deffenbach, was known in her girlhood as Julia A. Seiberd. The union has been blessed by the birth of four children—Effie, Pritchard, Essie and Burchard. Effie married William Brinsley and has one son, named Chester; Essie married Mort Beard and has one daughter, Helen B. Our subject and his entire family belong to the German Lutheran Church. They are known as earnest believers who conscientiously endeavor to show their faith by their works. MAJ. WILLIAM T. HOUGH. As one of the early pioneers of Clark County, Mr. Hough deserves more than a passing notice. He came to this section of country during the period of its early development and has contributed his full quota toward its subsequent growth and prosperity. He makes his headquarters at a well-regulated farm on section 13, Moorefield Township, where by a course of industry and prudence, he has surrounded himself and his family with all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. A native of Loudoun County, Va., the subject of this notice was born December 25, about 1811, and is the son of John and Jane (Braden) Hough, who were also natives of the Old Dominion. His paternal ancestors are believed to have been of English origin. Grandfather Hough settled in Virginia at an early day, prior to the Revolutionary War, and spent his last days there. To John Hough and his estimable wife there was born a family of nine children and William T. is the only survivor. The Hough family as far back as the records go have been Quakers in religious belief. William T. was reared to farming pursuits and 706 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. spent his boyhood and youth in his native State, remaining under the parental roof. His father died when he was a lad of eleven years and being the eldest son, he naturally assumed many of the labors belonging to older years. He assisted his mother and gradually assumed the principal labors on the farm to the neglect of his education, but grew up healthful. in mind and body and availed himself of the opportunity of reading whenever the occasion permitted, thus keeping himself posted upon current events. Mr. Hough was married in Fauquier County, in January, 1831, to Miss Louisa Bowersett and to them was born a family of nine children of whom only four are living. John is a farmer by occupation and one of the Trustees of Moorefield Township; George, makes his home in Tenn.; Annie, the wife of Francis Farel, and Elizabeth, Mrs. Heffebower, a widow, are both residents of Springfield. In the fall of 1833 Mr. Hough with his wife and one child, left the Old Dominion and coming to Ohio located upon the land which constitutes his present farm. It bore but little resemblance then to its present condition, being principally wild and uncultivated, and it required the labor of years and the outlay of thousands of dollars to bring about the present improvements. The home farm comprises one hundred and forty acres while Mr. Hough has nineteen and seventy one-hundredth acres elsewhere in the township. As an example of a man commencing in life without other resources than his own industry and perseverance, he certainly presents in his life and surroundings an admirable illustration of that which may be accomplished by a resolute will and good management. His well-tilled acres yield annually handsome returns and he has a prospect of a competence for his declining years. Mrs. Louisa Hough departed this life at the homestead some years since. Mr. Hough contracted a second marriage February 14, 1882, with Mrs. Caroline Chester and there has been born to them one daughter, Addie. Mr. Hough cast his first Presidential vote for Andrew Jackson and remains a stanch adherent of the Democratic party. He has served as Justice of the Peace of Moorefield Township. During his younger years he took an active interest in military affairs and at one time served in the Ohio militia as the Aid-de-camp of Gen. Kiefer during the Mexican War. The present wife of our subject was born in Clark County, November 16, 1843, and is a daughter of Samuel and Sarah (House) Sheeder. Her parents were natives of Chester County, Pa., whence they emigrated to Ohio' in 1835, settling in Moorefield Township, Clark County, among its earliest pioneers. The father occupied himself as a farmer and wagon-maker. They brought with them their three children and three more were subsequently added to the household circle. Five are now living, viz: John, a resident of Springfield; Ambrose living in Bird City, Kan.; Joseph, of Dallas, Tex; Isaac in Dakota and Mrs. Hough. One daughter, Margaret, died March 10, 1866, in In. (liana aged thirty-five years. Both parents are deceased. They were people greatly respected in their community and members in good standing of the Lutheran Church. They traced their ancestry to Germany. Mrs. Hough belongs to the Methodist Church. The deceased children of Mr. Hough by his first wife are—Nannie S. C., Marietta, William, Sarah and Ellen. FRANK E. FROST, a contractor and builder in Donnelsville, Clark County, was born near this place, May 2, 1863, and being the only child of parents who possessed considerable means and desired their son to be well fitted for the battle of life, he received good school advantages. His boyhood was passed on a farm a mile and a half northwest of Donnelsville, and his early education obtained in the common schools, which at that period afforded instruction in many of the higher branches and were under the control of competent instructors. This was supplemented by a business course at Nelson's Business College, at Springfield, after leaving which young Frost became a book-keeper for the American Manufacturing Company, of New Carlisle. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 709 After acting in that capacity two years, Mr. Frost became a traveling representative of the Champion City Times for eighteen months, after which he took up his residence at Donnelsville. He is himself a carpenter, and consequently thoroughly competent to select material, secure reliable workmanship, and properly estimate everything connected with his business. His own residence is one of the handsomest in the entire township and is presided over by a lady who is a capable housewife and an intelligent and charming companion. The wife of Mr. Frost was born in Claypool, Ind.,and bore the maiden. name of Lydia Keplinger. She is a daughter of Isaac and Anna (Heck) Keplinger, both of whom were born in Bethel Township, Clark County, Ohio. The rites of wedlock between herself and our subject were celebrated at her home, May 13, 1886. In his political views Mr. Frost is a Democrat, and his religious convictions have led him to unite with the Lutheran Church. Honorable in his dealings with his fellow-men, reliable as a citizen and considerate in the closer relations of life, he is entitled to and receives the respect of all with whom he comes in contact. Jacob Frost, the father of our subject, was born in Greene County, in 1806, but when a boy came to Clark County with his parents, who settled in Bethel Township. There he was reared to manhood and spent the remainder of his life, dying June 2, 1889. Farming was his chosen vocation, and by an industrious and prudent pursuit of the same he acquired considerable property, being self made in finances. He was a Democrat. His wife, formerly Miss Indiana Conrad, was born in Washington County, Md., became his wife in Bethel Township, in 1840, and is yet living. DAVID McKNIGHT. There is no State in the Union where agriculture has attained to a higher dignity than in the State of Ohio. Fortunately its originally rich soil fell into the hands of a people of more than ordinary intelligence and enterprise, and the result has been that it has obtained a prestige extending throughout the entire Union. Prominent among those who first inaugurated this extensive and prosperous industry was the McKnight family, who have made for themselves an admirable record and of whom the subject of this notice is a worthy representative. He is now quite well edvanced in years, having been born October 3, 1818, and at the present time lives only one mile south of his father's old homestead where he first opened his eyes to the light. His own property aggregates two hundred and sixty-two acres in Spring Valley Township, Greene County, which under his management has become highly productive and valuable. William and Jane (Fulton) McKnight, the immediate progenitors of our subject, were natives of Virginia and spent their last years in Ohio. The father was a lifelong farmer by occupation and an early pioneer of this county. After a well-spent life he rested from his labors, July 16, 1853, passing peacefully away at the homestead which he had built up, amid the regret of many friends. The mother died about August 6, 1825. Their family consisted of six children, three of whom are living. The subject of this notice received careful parental training and a practical education in the common school, which was conducted in a rude log house, with puncheon floor, slabs for seats and desks and the chimney built outside of dirt and sticks. He worked on the farm with his father until his marriage. The above-mentioned important and interesting event occurred April 23, 1868, the bride being Miss Emma J. Adams. She was born July 19, 1846, in Rappahannock County, Va.. to William M. and Mary Jane (White) Adams, who were natives of Fauquier County, Va. Their births occurred respectively September 19, 1802, and September 2, 1812. They were reared and married in their native county. Mr. Adams was given a common-school education and in his younger years followed the profession of a teacher. Later he worked with his father as a millwright. In the fall of 1859, he came to Ohio, settling on a tract of land in the southwestern part of Spring Valley Township and followed farming the remainder of his days. He was 710 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. called hence August 1, 1879. His widow is still living, making her home with her three daughters in Spring Valley. To the parents of Mrs. McKnight there were born the following children: Marcellus W. is a resident of Kent County, Mich.; Ann Sophia is the widow of J. Buckles and lives in Spring Valley; Susan F. is the wife of Fenton Squires and they live in the vicinity of Waynesville; William H.; John C. during the Civil War served as a Union soldier in the One Hundred and Eighty-eighth Ohio Infantry; Emma J., James T., Lucy, Alice, Mary Belle and Sarah E. are living in Ohio. The paternal grandfather was John Adams, likewise a native of Virginia who lived in Warren County, that State, and died about 1861. He was a first-class carpenter and a skilled millwright. In religion he belonged to the Old School Baptist Church. His wife bore the maiden name of Susannah McLearn. Her father was a Scotch weaver, who, after coming to this country settled in Virginia and thereafter followed farming. To John Adams and his estimable partner, there was born a family of twelve children, viz: William, Thompson, Charles, Daniel, Joseph, Eveline, Eliza, Lucy, Susan, Sarah, Cordelia and Adeline. John Adams departed this life in Virginia in 1862, at the advanced age of eighty-four years. His wife had passed away many years previously. To our subject and his good wife there were born four children, namely, Hannah, William, Mary and Robert. Mrs. McKnight belongs to the Old School Baptist Church. Mr. McKnight upon reaching his majority identified himself with the Whig party, casting his first vote for William H. Harrison. Later he became a stanch defender of Republican principles and at the election of 1888, cheerfully voted for the grandson of "old Tippecanoe." He was a strong Union man during the late Civil War and with his brothers contributed liberally toward its prosecution. Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Mc- Knight located where they now reside. In 1880, their first residence was destroyed by fire and the present one was soon afterward erected upon the same, site. This latter is a fine modern structure, set in the midst of well-kept grounds and with its surroundings forms one of the most attractive pictures in the landscape of this region. The farm comprises three hundred and forty acres, all of which have been accumulated by the industry, economy and good management of its present proprietor. Among the portraits in this volume of representative citizens of Greene County we are pleased to present that of Mr. McKnight. WILLIAM J. BAIRD. On a well-developed farm in Pleasant Township, Clark County, this highly respected gentleman carries on the work of general farming in a manner which reflects credit upon his skill and judgment and furnishes him with an excellent income. His estate comprises one hundred and sixty-five acres and has been his home since 1859. Mr. Baird is a native of this county having been born a mile east of Harmony, March 27, 1826. His boyhood and youth were passed in the manner usual to farmers' sons, his time being divided between attendance at the common schools, the farm labors in which his strength would allow him to assist, and the recreations to be found in the country. On March 10, 1857, Mr. Baird was united in marriage with Mary Hayward, a lady of many estimable traits of character. She was born at Harper's Ferry, Va., being a daughter of David and Margaret (Kane) Hayward, who came to Ohio in 1833 and settled two miles east of Springfield. Mr. Hayward was a blacksmith. The marriage resulted in the birth of three children: Oscar, Margaret and Lewis R. The daughter is now the wife of George Everhart. The devoted wife and mother was called from time to eternity in September 1864. After having remained a widower until February 19,1867, Mr. Baird contracted a second matrimonial alliance being united with Miss Nancy Kimble. This lady is a daughter of Giles and Eveline (Turner) Kimble and was born in Harmony Township. Her father is a farmer. She is a woman whose worth is acknowledged by all who know her and in whom the heart of husband and children may rejoice, She PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 711 has borne our subject five children: Lizzie, Milton J., Nellie A., Eva A., and Laura E. Mr. Baird has been an active Republican for many years. He has served as Township Trustee and in 1889 was elected to that office unsolicited. For fifteen years he has been a member of the School Board in which he has materially advanced the cause of education. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church while his wife is identified with the Methodist Episcopal denomination. The ancestry of our subject is an honorable one, the family being originally of Scotland, whence members of it removed to Ireland and thence came to America. Going back to the third generation prior to our subject we find William Baird, who left to his children over five thousand acres of land in Maryland, Virginia and Kentucky. He was intimately associated in the business with a Mr. Breckenridge who was one of the first men to settle in the Blue Grass State. The next in the direct line was another William Baird, who was born near Hagerstown, Md., March 16, 1762, and who, during the latter part of the .Revolutionary War, served as a guard about nine months. He married Dorothy Cammerrer, a native of Maryland and of Dutch vestry. After having lived for some time in Westmoreland County, Pa., in the spring of 1794 they journeyed to Kentucky on a flatboat, settling at Flemingsburg, whence in 1808 they removed to Ohio on horseback. Settlement was made on one hundred and sixty acres of land in Harmony Township, Clark County, the acreage being afterward increased to five hundred and fifty. There Mrs. Baird died in 1824, her husband surviving until March 10,1836. She was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their family consisted of the following sons and daughters: Hester, who married John Smith; Susannah, the wife of Joshua Tatman, of Flemingsburg, Ky., who died childless; Elizabeth, Mary Ann, wife of John Hodge; Peter C., John, who died in Kosciusko County, hid., and William D. Peter C. Baird was born in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pa., September 16, 1792, and grew to maturity in Ohio, where he resided from his fifteenth year until he had passed the age of four-score, dying November 2, 1K3. He was a successful farmer, accumulating a nice fortune. After his marriage he settled on one hundred and fifty-two acres on the National Pike east of Harmony, where he resided until his death. He was an old line Whig and afterward a sturdy Republican. He married Frances Wilson, who was born near King's Mountain, N. C., and who belonged to a highly respectable family. Her father, John Wilson, was a Justice of the Peace twenty-seven years; he was a strict Presbyterian and was highly thought of by all to whom his character was known. He married Hannah Baird, also of North Carolina whence they came to Ohio, spending the later years of their life in Fayette County. The fathers of both took part in the celebrated battle at King's Mountain. This worthy couple were the parents of six sons and six daughters, the subject of this biographical notice being the first-born. All of the sons and four daughters lived beyond their childhood. John was accidentally killed in sliding from a straw stack; Willis is living in Dade County, Mo.; Lewis, who served in Company K, Thirty-first Ohio Infantry, is now living in Jessamine County, Ky.; Robert J., who belonged to Company I, One Hundred and Tenth Ohio Infantry, was killed in the battle of the Wilderness; Samuel died when eighteen years old; Clarissa is the wife of John Mills, of Green Township; Caroline lives on the old homestead; Susan lives with her; Mary A. is now deceased. JOSEPH D. LITTLE. One of the important industries of Clark County is that of the Springfield Fertilizer Company, whose works are located on East High Street, and who employ from thirty to forty men. The business was established in 1883 by L. M. Goode, F. A. Kissell and J. D. Little. They manufacture fertilizing agents, which find a ready sale in the East, and in which there is a large local trade. The subject of this brief biographical notice is of English and Scotch descent and a native of Monmouth County, N. J., where his eyes opened to the light March 30, 1840. His father, Thomas Little, died when 712 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Joseph was a lad of twelve years, and he was thrown somewhat on his own resources for support. Going to Philadelphia, Pa., he entered the employ of his uncle, A. W. Little, an extensive silk importer, in whose establishment he acquired a knowledge of that trade and good business habits. Young Little remained with his uncle until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he became a member of a company which was composed of young men from the best Philadelphia families and known as the Anderson Troop. The company was formed into a battalion, and afterward, by the addition of other companies, into a regiment, and ordered to the front. It was not properly officered, however, and on receiving orders to engage in battle, they refused. to move the regiment. Three companies of one hundred men each agreed to go into the fight if supplied with proper officers, which was done. During the battle nearly half the men were killed or taken prisoners, Mr. Little being one of the number captured by the enemy. He was taken to Libby Prison, where he remained until 1863, when he was paroled and sent to the Philadelphia hospital on account of sickness. There he received his final discharge. After leaving the army, Mr. Little located in Muncie, Ind., where he embarked in mercantile business, selling out, however, a few mouths later. He then went to Dayton, Ohio, and engaged in the sale of agricultural implements. In 1867 he came to Springfield, entering the employ of Amos Whiteley & Co., manufacturers of reapers and mowers. He remained with that firm three years, at the expiration of that period becoming superintendent for the firm of Rinehart, Ballard & Co., afterward acquiring an interest in the concern. In 1882 the firm sold out to 0. S. Kelly. Mr. Little then secured an interest in the Tricycle Manufacturing Company of Springfield, which he disposed of upon the organization of the company to which he now belongs. In 1875 Mr. Little was united in marriage with Miss Lucy Rinehart, of this city. Her parents are James W. and Caroline (Pennock) Rinehart, formerly of Greene County, Pa., in which she was born. She has borne her husband three children —Elizabeth R., Arthur W. and Joseph D., Jr. Mr. Little belongs to Clark Lodge, No. 101. F. & A. M., and to Springfield Chapter, No. 48, R.A.M. In politics he is a Republican, and is now representing the Eighth Ward in the City Council. Enterprising in business affairs, honorable as a man and citizen, and manifesting an intelligent interest in the .movements which are for the good of the community, he receives the respect of many friends. His estimable wife, who was carefully reared and well educated, is also esteemed for her character and usefulness. AMOS BRIGGS. This gentleman is one of the heavy farmers of Clark County, his attractive home being situated in Madison Township, on a. tract of land which has been in the possession of the family for many years. The dwelling is one of the well-built frame structures which do credit alike to the taste and home care of the occupants, and is a model of hospitality and comfort. It occupies the site of the log cabin which was the original family home in this State, and which was erected by John Briggs, the grandfather of our subject. His father, Samuel Briggs, the great-grandfather of Amos, served as a soldier in the Revolutionary War. The family is of English lineage, and several generations ago was represented in Virginia by various members. Among these was Samuel Briggs, a native of the Mother Country, who spent the greater part of his life in the Old Dominion. In 1804 his five sons, including John, the grandfather of our subject; settled on Paint Creek, Ross County, Ohio, whence two years later one of them with his wife and family, came to the place now occupied by our subject, the other brothers remaining near Chillicothe. After other settlers began to locate in this neighborhood, John Briggs opened his house to the preaching of the gospel for a number of years, the old log school-house which stood on land formerly owned by Mr. Paullin, near where the brick one now does, being afterward used as a place of worship. The wife of John Briggs was Catherine Peterson, a lady of Ger- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 713 man ancestry. The remains of both rest in the New South Charleston cemetery. Grandpa Briggs lived until 1852, reaching the age of eighty-six years; his widow survived until June 1864, being about ninety years old when called hence. The first purchase of John Briggs in this section vas four hundred and ninety acres of land, with which he was content, never adding to the acreage. He had a family of five sons and four daughters, that grew to maturity, and one child that died in 1814, and is buried near the home which is now quite a family neighborhood. The estate was divided between the sons, and finally the larger portion came the possession of Samuel; to whom some of the others sold, removing West. He departed this life September 8, 1850, his wife surviving until January 30, 1889. About a year after John Briggs settled here, there came to this section from Virginia, George Hempleman and his family. When Mr. Hempleman caught sight of the cabin in the woods, he turned to his wife, who was riding a pack-horse, and said : "I wonder what fool ever got out to this God-forsaken country." The travelers remained over night in the cabin, where they were treated with the old time frontier hospitality. The supper consisted of venison, and bread baked in a Dutch oven, and was heartily enjoyed by them as they were all very hungry. Elizabeth Hempleman, then about six years of age, often afterward referred to it as the best meal they ever had. The family went on four miles, settling where the parents spent the remainder of their lives. Miss Elizabeth, after reaching maturity, became the wife of Samuel Briggs, under whose father's roof she and her parents had been sheltered on their first entrance into this neighborhood. The George Hempleman mentioned above, was the son of another George a native of Germany, who also came to Ohio in 1808, settled two miles north of Charleston, and lived to he one hundred and ten years of age. His mortal remains were also deposited in the old South Charleston cemetery. Amos Briggs, of whom we write, was born February 13, 1828, in a house on the old homestead, where he was reared amid somewhat more primitive surroundings than those of his present life. He took his chance in the schools of the day, and acquiring a good, practical knowledge of the important branches of study, developing a sturdy manliness which seems to be almost a necessary consequence amid the scenes in which his boyhood was passed. On March 12, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Margaret A. Bateman, a noble hearted and intelligent woman, who has been his most cherished companion since their wedding day. The union has been childless. Having abundant means to gratify their tastes, Mr. and Mrs. Briggs indulge in such pleasures as people of intelligence, refinement, and a love of nature can enjoy ; and find an outlet for the kindliness and generosity of their natures in quietly assisting the needy and aiding in various good works. In 1875, they made an extended trip to the West, which was greatly enjoyed by them at the time, and affords much pleasure in the retrospect. They spent a few days in Chicago, St. Louis, and Kansas City, thence going to Denver and Colorado Springs, and visiting the points of interest in the Centennial State. They then passed through Utah and Nevada to California, stopping as fancy led them, and after reaching the Golden State, making a thorough tour of the Yosemite Valley, and Calaveras County, the home of the big trees. From California they went to Oregon on a Pacific steamer, returning by the mountain route, so being enabled to view every variety of scenery that the Rocky Mountain and coast region afford. Mrs. Margaret Briggs is a great-grand-daughter of Henry Bateman, who bought the mansion of Lord Baltimore near the city of that name, that historic edifice becoming the family home of the Batemans. In it William Bateman was born February 17, 1741. He married Margaret Ducker, a lady of English ancestry, who was born May 5, 1749. Their marriage was celebrated December 27, 1771, among their children being Daniel H., who was born June 1, 1787, and who was the father of Mrs. Briggs. The family is a patriotic one, William Bateman having sent two sons to the War of 1812, and having had a brother John, who was an officer in the Revolutionary War. Daniel Bateman chose for his wife Miss Elizabeth Surlott, who was born in Bracken County, 714 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Ky., and who accompanied her parents to Ohio in 1820, their settlement being made in Ross Township, Greene County. Mr. Bateman had come to this section in 1812. In 1851, he removed with _his family to South Charleston, where both he and his wife passed away. The death of the latter occurred November 18, 1854, and he survived until February 2, 1863. The Batemans were believers in the doctrines of the Episcopal Church, and the Surlotts have been Methodists for generations. Mrs. Briggs is a member of the Methodist Church. Politically, Mr. Briggs is a stanch Democrat. DAN. BAKER is the owner and occupant of an excellent piece of property in Miami Township, Greene County, which has been his life-long home. It comprises one hundred and thirteen acres of well-improved land, a portion of it being timber, and various crops being raised upon that which isunder the plow. The residence is a substantial brick house, which was built by the father of our subject, and occupies the site of the old log house in which our subject was born. The personal character of Mr. Baker is above reproach, good principles marking his intercourse with his fellow-men, and the utmost kindliness being shown by him to his wife and children. Never having been a rover, his principal knowledge of the world has been obtained by reading, but he keeps up an intelligent interest in the world's affairs by this means. Among the early settlers in this county was Thomas Baker, who came hither from Pennsylvania about 1812, and settled a mile northwest of Clifton, where he died September 22, 1821, at the age of fifty-nine years. He was accompanied to this State by his son Nayl, who had opened his eyes to the light in the Keystone State May 25, 1795. The latter after reaching manhood took for his wife Miss Huldah Mills, who was born June 8, 1803, their marriage taking place in 1825. They at once settled on what is now known as the Campbell farm, but after living upon it some years sold and purchased that now owned by our subject which they made their permanent home. There the husband breathed his last, April 17, 1865, his widow surviving until April 28, 1877. They were the parents of nine children, as follows: Sarah, now Mrs. Wilson; Jacob and Thomas, deceased ; Mary and Mrs. Rachael Smith, deceased; Dan ; Mrs. Lettitia Kiler, and an infant. The natal day of Dan Baker was April 20, 1839. He received but a common-school education and was obliged to work hard, assisting his father until the death of the latter, and afterward continuing his labors upon the home place. He had left the parental home during the Civil War, taking the field as a member of Company F,One Hundred and Fifty-fourth. Ohio Infantry, which was detailed for guard duty at Piedmont, W. Va. After serving until his time expired he was discharged at Camp Dennison and returned to the farm, where he has since remained. After his marriage he and his wife settled down upon the homestead and took care of his mother until she passed away. The wife of Mr. Baker was in her girlhood Susan E. Waymire. She is one of nine children born to Daniel and Marianna Waymire, four of whom are now living. Her parents were natives of South Carolina whence they moved to Dayton, Ohio, where she was born July 12, 1845. Her father was a contractor, one of his jobs being the old courthouse at Dayton and his last contract the Lagonda House at Springfield. The marriage ceremony of Mr. and Mrs. Baker took place February 22, 1872, and has been blessed by the birth of seven children. Joseph, the first-born, died in infancy; Mary Eliza is now sixteen years of age; Huldah is deceased; Anna S. is thirteen years old ; John William is deceased; Bessie Y. has reached the age of eight years; Evan D. is six years old. Mrs. Baker being a woman of intelligence, good education and fine character, ably fulfills the duties of wife and mother, and is, with her husband's co-operation, instilling into the minds of their children firm principles and a desire for usefulness. Mr. Baker is now filling the office of Supervisor of his district and he has been a member of the School Board for about sixteen years. He has always taken a lively interest in political affairs, voting the Republican ticket. In former years he be- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 715 longed to the Grange and he is an advocate of temperance. He is a Trustee of the Presbyterian Church to which both he and his wife belong. On his father's side Mr. Baker is of Irish extraction and in the maternal line is of Welsh stock. His grandparents Thomas Baker and Sarah Woodward were married in 1785, at the Friends' meeting. JAMES M. BARBER. Among those who have passed away and who have left behind them a good record as men and citizens, may be properly mentioned Mr. Barber. A man of unbounded energy and enterprise, he most assuredly left his footprints on the sands of time and presented an example of industry, and perseverance worthy of emulation. Commencing with modest means, such was his diligence and his good judgment in the disbursement of his capital, that at his death he left a large estate including five hundred and twenty-one acres of land which was divided up among his children before the widow had been assigned her dowry of one hundred and nineteen acres, which with its buildings and other improvements constitutes one of the most desirable country homes in Greene County. Mr. Barber was born January 18, 1822, in Cedarville Township, and was a man of strong character, warm in his likes and dislikes, but of that temperament which drew toward him hosts of friends and which made him greatly beloved, especially by his near neighbors and his own family. He was formerly a Democrat in politics but during the latter part of his life was an active worker in the ranks of the Prohibition party. He was warmly interested in temperance movements and totally opposed to the manufacture and sale of intoxicating liquors. He kept himself thoroughly posted upon current events and loved to travel—a pastime in which he was joined by his amiable wife who enjoyed this recreation as much as himself. Their last journey was to Jacksonville, Fla., where Mr. Barber was attacked with cerebro hemorrhage, from which his death ensued January 25, 1888. The bereaved wife returned home with the remains of her husband and they were laid to rest in Cedarville cemetery while over them has been erected the finest monument in this part of the country. The marriage of James Barber and Miss Mary L. Bickett was celebrated at the bride's home, her father's farm, near Jasper, April 13, 1852, and not quite three years afterward, December 27, 1854, they removed to the home where Mrs. Barber still lives. Mrs. Barber was born May 6, 1833, in Jasper Township and is the daughter of John Bickett, who came to Ohio from Pennsylvania in 1818, settling in Xenia Township, this county. The paternal grandparents, John and Elizabeth Bickett, were natives of Ireland and of Scotch-Irish descent, and settled in Pennsylvania in the year 1797. The early progenitors of the family were Protestants as their descendants have uniformly been. Grandfather Bickett upon coming to America settled in Pennsylvania where he spent the remainder of his life. His wife subsequently joined her children in this county and died about 1839 or 1840, having attained to the advanced age of eighty years. The Bicketts in coming, to America were on the ocean twenty weeks. John Bickett was married in 1821 to Miss Peggy Dean, daughter of Daniel Dean, who removed to Ohio from Lexington, Ky., at a very early day. The maiden name of his wife was Elizabeth Steele, also of Kentucky. To Mr. and Mrs. Barber there was born a family of twelve children, all of whom are living. John C. is a prosperous merchant of Cedarville; Robert Lee is married, has one child and is engaged in merchandising at South Salem, this State; he visited California during the gold excitement and is a very intelligent man, well informed upon all general subjects and especially the history of the great West. Charles M. is married and farming on a part of the old homestead, about one-half mile from his mother; he has two children--Colin and Marie. Huldah J., a mute, married Charles H. Rice, afflicted in the same manner. They however, have a bright little boy, Jamie, who can do enough talking for the family and can converse with his parents by means of his fingers as readily as they. The little fellow has considerable knowledge of telegraphing and is more than ordinarily 716 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. bright and promising. They live on a farm a short distance north of Cedarville. Alice is the wife of R. S. Anderson and the mother of two bright children—Ethel and Eula; they live on their own farm near Clifton, this county; Laura H. is the wife of D. S. Collins, and they also live On a farm near Clifton; Miss Effie makes her home with her brother in Cedarville; A. D. carries on the home farm for his mother in a highly creditable manner; Norah, Ica, Luna and Jessie complete the list. Mr. Barber from his youth was a consistent member of the United Presbyterian Church, to which Mrs. Barber belongs as does also her whole family except one son. CHARLES LEDBETTER was born two miles southwest of Xenia, on the Columbus and J Cincinnati Pike, November. 2, 1844. Although only a boy when the Civil War broke out he was fired with the spirit of patriotism which swept broadcast over the North, and as' soon as it was possible to do so, joined the Union forces, being a member of Company D, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio Infantry, in the one hundred days' service. The most important engagement in which he took part, was at New Creek, W. Va,, the one 'hundred day men being mostly. given the duty' of guarding stores, roads, and a similar needful ser. vice, thus reheving the older soldiers, and enabling them to devote their time to more aggressive warfare. Our. subject had received a common-school education; which in this State, and in the latter half of the nineteenth century, is sufficient foundation for a useful and honorable career. He has always lived with his parents, and now works the 'home- stead, which 'comprises one hundred and fifty-five acres in Xenia Township. The father of our subject was John H. Ledbetter, who was born. in Virginia, and went with his parents to Kentucky, thence coming to Greene County many years ago. After the war he located on sixty-three acres of the land now owned. and occupied by our subject, increasing his possessions until they reached the, acreage before noted. His death oc- 1 curred in December, 1887, when he was seventy-one years old. He was the father of six children: Joseph, the first-born, belonged to the Seventeenth Ohio Battery, and served in his country's cause until April 9, 1863, when he was sent home from Vicksburg, and died five days after reaching the parental roof. The other members of the family circle are Charles, Addison, Newton, Laura, and Dicey Ann, who died when two months old. The wife of John H. Ledbetter, and the mother of our subject, was in her girlhood Miss Jane Richardson; she was born near Brookville, Ind., April 5, 1820. Her parents William and Ann (Boone) Richardson, lived for some time in Virginia, thence removing to Lebanon, Ohio, and from there to Indiana, where both died. The father was a tanner, distiller, and miller. He was a son of Edmund Richardson, of Maryland, and his wife was a daughter of Valentine Boone, an early settler in Caesar's Creek Township, .and of German origin. The parents of Mrs. Ledbetter had twelve children—Andrew, Samuel, Elizabeth, Mary, Edmund, Lycons, Margaret, Rebecca, Henry, Jackson, Jane, and Ann. After. the death of the mother, their father married Jane Collis, by whom he reared two children, John and Sallie. Both the parents of our subject believed in the tenets of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which they became identified many years ago. MILO W. ANDERSON. The farm owned and occupied by the above-named gentleman is located in Greene County, four and a half miles south of Xenia, on Caesar's Creek, and comprises seventy acres of land. Although the estate is not so large as many in the township, it is one of considerable value, being well improved and conducted in such a manner as to show that its owner is both .enterprising and progressive. Mr. Anderson is engaged in farming and stock-raising and is numbered among the substantial men of the county, in which he has lived all his life. The natal day of Milo W. Anderson was March 27, 1857, and his birthplace. the farm adjoining that PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 719 which he now occupies. his parents were Joseph and Matilda (Stanfield) Anderson, whose history will be found on another page in this volume. Under their careful tutelage he became firm in principles, industrious in habits and fitted for a useful and honorable life. He was reared on the farm, received a good common-school education, and after his marriage purchased from his father a portion of the old homestead, upon which he has since carried on his own successful career. At the home of the bride's parents, October 5, 1875, the rites of wedlock were celebrated between Milo W. Anderson and Margaret Alice Howard. The bride is the second child of Minor and Maria (Haverstick) Howard, who are natives of Warren County, Ohio, and of Maryland, respectively. She was born in Xenia, August 29, 1856, is well educated, and possesses those virtues of heart and mind which fit her for usefulness in life and for an influence which extends far beyond her home. The only other member of the family is Emma J., wife of James Shane. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are members of the Reformed Church. Their otherwise happy marriage is a childless one, but although denied that outlet for their affection they bestow their good will in abundant measure on those about them, winning in return a due measure of esteem and consideration. JOHN A. KNEISLY. To have descended from a long line of honorable ancestors is a matter of pride to those so happily situated, and it is invariably their desire to reflect credit on the worthy name they bear. Naturally, such is the feeling of Mr. Kneisly, who is not only justly proud of his ancestry, but is filling the public position which he occupies, that of Postmaster of Osborn, Greene County, to the satisfaction of the community and with honor to himself. His portrait, which will be noticed on the opposite page, represents a prominent citizen of the town, one who has been a leading merchant, and who is, at all times, a liberal supporter of every worthy public enterprise. His genial manners and thorough acquaintance with the world, make him a pleasant companion with whom to pass a few hours, while his education and refinement make him welcome in social circles. The subject of this sketch was horn at Kneisly Station, in Bath Township, December 17, 1851. He is the first-born of the three children of Benjamin and Mary (Kauffman) Kneisly, and the only one now living. His brother Benjamin died in infancy, and his sister, Mrs. Susan A. Sheppard, died in Osborn. The lad had good educational advantages in this county, and at Dayton, where he lived with his grandfather until the death of the latter. In boyhood he spent the intervals of study in assisting his grandfather by doing errands and chores that were suited to his years. When seventeen years old he started out for himself, and coming to Osborn became a clerk for his uncles, Christ and John Kauffman. He continued his clerical labors until 1880, when he became a partner in the firm of Kauffman Sr Kneisly, running grocery store until 1888. He then sold his interest and retired from mercantile business, devoting his attention to a public office which he was then holding. In June, 1889, be received the appointment of Postmaster, and is now attending thoroughly to the duties of the office, and carrying on the sale of a small stock of stationery. Mr. Kneisly has been in the Town Council four years, and was Village Clerk two years, resigning the latter position to take his present one. He was also for three years a member of the School Board, having manifested a deeper interest in the cause of education, and being more liberal and active in supporting the school, the church, and other enterprises of an elevating character, than many men of greater means. His wife is a member of the Lutheran Church, which he attends, and to the support of which he contributes. In politics he is a true blue Republican. Socially, he is an Odd Fellow, and has represented the order in the Grand Lodge five terms, being now Past Noble Grand for the third time, and Secretary of the encampment. He also belongs to the A. F. Si A. M., Blue Lodge, of which he is Past Master, and holds membership in the Chapter and Council at Carlisle. He has represented this order also in 720 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the Grand Lodge, and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, being a charter member of the Osborn Lodge. At the bride's home in Montgomery County, on Christmas day, 1876, the rites of wedlock were celebrated between John A. Kneisly and Emily J. Beyl. The bride, who was born in Bath Township, this county, is a daughter of Solomon Beyl, formerly of Pennsylvania, and now a prominent farmer in Montgomery County. She is a fine type of intelligent and cultured christian womanhood, and an ornament to the society in which she moves. The happy union has been blessed by the birth of one child, Ora B. The grandfather, with whom our subject spent his youth, was John Kneisly, a native of Pennsylvania, who became a resident of the Buckeye State in the spring of 1828. He had operated an oil mill in his native State, and after coming to Ohio carried on a flourmill and a distillery on the Mad River, doing a large business, and being very successful. He had settled in Bath Township, this county, upon land which he purchased, also entering some in Montgomery County, owning altogether some one thousand acres. Besides his milling business, he bought grain and other produce extensively and carried on a store. Kneisly Station was named for him. He did business there until he had a stroke of paralysis, when he removed to Dayton, spending the rest of his life in that city enjoying the fruits of honest industry. He was well known and influential, and his fortune was probably not surpassed by that of any other man in the township. He was interested in the improvement of the country, built churches, turnpikes, and in other ways contributed in developing the land from its primeval wilderness. He was an active member of the Reformed Church. His death took place in 1868. The father of our subject was born in Lancaster County, Pa., but coming to this section when a child, was reared here and began his business career in the distillery of his father. He worked in that establishment until it closed. During the War he was a Captain in the Ohio State Militia, and in 1866, went South in the Government employ. He was in the Quartermaster's Department at Galveston, Tex., where he died of yellow fever in 1867, at the age of thirty-nine years. He belonged to the Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, the Royal Arch Masons, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His wife was also a native of Pennsylvania, her father, Christian Kauffman, being al native of and farmer in Lancaster County. He came to this section of Ohio about 1840, and successfully continued his agricultural labors here. Mrs. Kneisly died in Dayton, in 1885. FREDERICK W. WILLISS, proprietor of Williss's College of Short-Hand, has long been recognized as an expert stenographer and sends his representatives to .different parts of the State and country to take down the proceedings of important cases in court in the employ of the leading Attorneys. The college was established in the summer of 1880 as an individual enterprise and since its inception has steadily grown in favor with the people and is now in the enjoyment of a liberal patronage. It is believed by many that the day will come when the tedious method of longhand writing will be done away with and this important invention he substituted in its stead. As in other trades and professions some will become expert while others never rise above mediocrity. Mr. Williss is unquestionably numbered among the first mentioned. He takes a live interest in the profession and has done much to increase its popularity among business men and others. The subject of this notice was born in Madison Township, Clark County, this State, June 18,1859, and is the only son of Perrin and Anna Williss. The father was born and reared in Indiana and died in 1864, when his son Frederick was only five years old. The mother is still living and a resident of Springfield. She was born in Clark County, and within its limits has spent nearly her entire life. Mr. Williss of whom we write, pursued his early studies in the country schools and when sufficiently advanced, attended the Normal School at South Charleston from which he was duly graduated. Afterward he entered the law office of Keifer do PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 721 White of Springfield and was admitted to the bar in 1880. He was employed for a time on a salary with this firm. He had prior to this for several years been a short-hand writer and for the past twelve years has been a law and general reporter in different cities in the State. Finally, being convinced that he could become a successful instructor of the art, Mr. Williss in 1880, embarked hi his present enterprise to which he now gives his entire attention and admits to the school pupils of both sexes. The college is located on the third floor of the Masonic Building, No. 29, West Main Street. Besides a good local patronage, it accommodates pupils from nearly every State in the Union, all the way from one to two hundred. It is the largest institution of the kind in the State of Ohio. Mr. Williss was married in October, 1881, to Miss Mattie II. Sands, who was born in Clark County, and at the time of their wedding was a resident of South Charleston. Mrs. Williss is a (laughter of Israel and Hope Sands who were natives of Illinois. Her mother is deceased, and her father lives in Kansas. Four sons and a daughter have been born of this union—Carl, Frank, Warren K., Grace and Frederick W., Jr. The family residence is at No. 65, West PleaSant Street, and its inmates number among their friends the intelligent and cultured people of the city. Politically he is a Republican. MAHLON KERSHNER. The subject of this notice has long been a familiar figure among the business interests of Springfield, and has been a life-long resident of Ohio, which is his native State. He was born February 20, 1832, three miles west of Yellow Springs, in Greene County, and is the son of Thomas Kershner, who was born in Cincinnati in 1806. His paternal grandfather, Solomon Kershner, a native of Maryland, was born near Hagarstown, and spent his last years in Ohio. The latter was the son of a farmer of modest means, and who is supposed to have spent his entire life in Maryland. The paternal grandfather of our subject was reared in his native State, whence he emigrated about 1805, and located at Ft. Washington, now Cincinnati, and which was then a hamlet of a few log houses. He was a weaver by trade, and followed this, in addition to various other pursuits, about one year in that vicinity, then removed to Greene County, and located on a tract of land four miles west of Yellow Springs, and which his father-in-law had taken up from the Government. The whole State of Ohio was then a wilderness, peopled mostly by Indians and wild animals. Deer, turkeys and other wild game were plentiful, while the wolves howled around the settler's door at night. No railroads were built in this locality for many years, all the surplus farm products being transported to Cincinnati overland by teams. Grandfather Kershner was very prosperous, and became the owner of large tracts of land, and spent the remainder of his days at the homestead which he had built up in the wilderness, being called hence in 1850, at the advanced age of seventy-six. The father of our subject was an infant when his parents settled in Greene County, wherein he was reared and married. His father gave him one hundred and sixty acres of land in Bath Township, and upon this he followed farming many years. In October, 1859, he sold out, and removing to Noble County, Ind., purchased a farm, and resided there until his death, which occurred in September, 1878. His wife bore the maiden name of Magdalene Kershner; she was born in Maryland, and was the daughter of Daniel Kershner; she died at the old farm, October 12, 1877, preceding her husband a little over one year. They reared three children: Margaret, who married Jeremiah Clark; Mahlon, our subject; and Maria, the wife of Nary Fry. The subject of this sketch was reared at the home farm in Ohio, and resided there with his parents until after his marriage. After the celebration of this event he operated on his father's land two years, and then rented land near Enon for eighteen months. In 1859 he removed to Michigan, and located on his father-in-law's farm in Kalamazoo County, where he resided three years. At the expiration of this time he returned to Greene County, where he farmed about four years. his next removal was to Noble County, Ind., where he 722 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. engaged in farming six years. Returning then to Springfield, this State, he engaged in teaming until 1884, and then on account of ill health was obliged to abandon this business; he is now living quietly at his home in the city. In January, 1854, our subject was wedded to Miss Anna Eppley. Mrs. Kershner was born November 22,1825, in Rockingham County, Va., and is a daughter of Adam and Rebecca (Durr) Eppley, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. She became the mother of two children--Mary and William G., and died at her home in Springfield, April 7,1882. Mr. Kershner's daughter Mary is the wife of A. L. Cutting, an engineer on the Missouri Pacific Railroad. William married Miss Ella Taylor, and resides in Cincinnati, being in the employ of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company. HON. JACOB KREIDER MOWER, formerly a member of the Ohio Legislature, is one of the able attorneys of Clark County and one whose sound -common sense and ripe judgment have given him a good position among his brethren of the legal fraternity. A man whose integrity is beyond question, he is one who has the rare faculty of being the same to all, high and low, rich and poor, never prides himself upon his success in life but is ever ready to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate. He has a thorough knowledge of his profession, has achieved an enviable reputation as a lawyer, is skillful as a cross examiner and successful in presenting his case before a jury. In social and business circles he is a general favorite and no man in the city of Springfield has a circle of warmer or more disinterested friends. He has for the past two years been President of the Clark County Bar Association. The subject of this notice was born in Franklin County, Pa., April 4,1833, and is the son of George and Mary (Kreider) Mower. The latter is the daughter of John and Barbara (Schmidt) Kreider and the grand-daughter of the Rev. Martin Kreider of the United Brethren Church. His paternal grandparents were George and Eve (Leitig) Mower who spent their their last years in Pennsylvania. George Mower was a native of Pennsylvania and a farmer by occupation, an honest and reliable man of decided views and opinions who was first a Whig, politically, later a member of the Free Soil party and finally identified himself with the Republican party. He departed this life at the old homestead in Richland County, in 1855. The subject of this notice was the youngest in a family of eight children and came to Ohio with his parents in the spring of 1834, they settling on a farm near the village of Ontario, Richland County. The education of Jacob K., which had been begun at a schoolhouse called the "quail trap" near his home, was continued at the High School at Massillon, the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware and the Ohio State University at Athens. He was graduated from the latter in 1856, receiving the degree of A. B. Soon afterward he became Superintendent of the public schools at Athens, and in the meantime employed his leisure hours in the reading of law to such good advantage that he was admitted to the bar in the autumn of 1858, having studied in the office of Leonidas Jewett. In December, that year, he took up his residence in Springfield where he has since been engaged in the active practice of his profession and for five years operated with a partner under the firm name of Mower & Rawlins. He served as City Solicitor in 1868-69 and was a member of the Board of Education from 1873 to 1878. In the meantime he became prominent in local politics and was finally elected to represent Clark County in the Ohio Legislature, serving in 1870-71. Mr. Mower cast his first Presidential vote for John C. Fremont in 1856. He was always an ardent anti-slavery man and in his youth piloted many a fugitive from his home in Richland to Oberlin, which was then a safe harbor for those who were endeavoring to escape from bondage. Mr. Mower is a firm believer in the equal rights of all without regard to race, color or sex, and believes the greatest evil of this country is the disfranchisement of a majority of its citizens—and those of the *best class. It is therefore not surprising that when a member of the Legislature, he was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Woman Suffrage. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 723 Further, he claims that the tariff should not be a party question, but that each representative in Congress should be free to act so as to protect the industries and interests of the citizens of his own locality. The marriage of the Hon. Jacob K. Mower and Miss Eunice M. Rice occurred December 2, 1858, at the bride's home in Hillsboro, Ohio. Mrs. Mower was born March 2, 1833, at a farmhouse in Ames Township, Athens County. Ohio, and is a daughter of Sabinus and Pamela (Hibbard) Rice. Her father was the son of Jason and Sarah (Hibbard) Rice and the grandson of Jonas and Deborah (Force) Rice. Jason Rice was a native of Poultney, N. Y., and drew a pension as a Revolutionary soldier. Pamela Hibbard is the daughter of the Rev. Ithamar and Hannah (Wool) Hibbard, the former born in Windham, Conn., and the latter born in Norwich, Conn. To Mr. and Mrs. Mower have been born two daughters and a son. Mabel, the eldest, is a graduate of the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, where she completed her studies in the summer of 1882, and received the degree of A. B. Alice Mary took the same degree at Wittenberg College, Springfield, in the year 1884. Carl Kreider was graduated from the same institution in 1886, and having studied law in his father's office was admitted to the bar in February, 1889; he is now junior member of the firm of Mower & Mower, Attorneys. PETER KEPLINGER. The main points in the history of this old-time resident of Fairfield, Greene County, and who is now deceased, are essentially as follows: He was born in Burwick Township, Adams County, Pa., June 28, 1810, where he was reared to manhood and learned the trade of a tinsmith. He clerked in a hardware store in Baltimore, Md., for a time, and later conducted a tinshop at his old home for I time. In the spring of 1833 Mr. Keplinger came to Kneisly Station to visit his brother William, who was a miller at that place. He liked the looks of the country, as did also his wife, he having been married, so they concluded to locate at Fairfield. Mr. Keplinger started a tinshop in connection with a small grocery store and a bakery. He was occupied with this until 1846, then turning his attention to agricultural pursuits, located on a farm of one hundred and eighty acres on section 28, Bath Township. Mr. Keplinger commenced at first principles in establishing a home, as there were scarcely any improvements on the land, and being more than ordinarily enterprising and industrious, he, in due time, found himself on the highway to success. He brought the land to a good state of cultivation, enclosed the whole with substantial fencing, planted fruit and shade trees, and erected the necessary buildings, including a fine house and a large barn, the latter 40x80 feet in dimensions. This farm under the careful management of the proprietor became one of the model homesteads of Greene County. In 1861, having accumulated a sufficiency for their declining years, Mr. and Mrs. Keplinger decided to retire from active labor, and leaving the farm in care of the boys, removed to the town of Osborn, where Mr. Keplinger had seven acres of ground, and put up a comfortable residence. He thereafter interested himself in the education of his children, and he has also signalized himself as a public-spirited citizen, by laboring to secure the first railroad through the place, and the constructtion of turnpike roads. He was one of the pillars of the Lutheran Church in which ho officiated as Elder for many years. In politics, he supported the Republican party. His useful life terminated February 13, 1875, amid the sorrowing of an affectionate family, and the regrets of the whole community. The marriage of Peter Keplinger and Miss Mary A. Stough was celebrated at the home of the bride's uncle, in this county, November 17, 1833. Mrs. Kpelinger was born in Stoughstown, Cumberland County, Pa., June 21, 1816, and is the daughter of William and Barbara (Whitmore) Stough, who were natives of that county, and represented its most substantial families. Mr. Stough was born near the city of Harrisburg, in 1794, and the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Keplinger, who was a 724 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. founder by trade, also engaged in hotel-keeping at Stoughstown, which town was named in his honor. The family is of German descent. William Stough learned cabinet making when a young man, but later followed agriculture on large tracts of rented land in his native State. In 1832 he emigrated to Ohio and purchased land near Mansfield, Richland County, where he made his home until 1858. Thence he removed to Columbia City, Ind., and subsquently engaged in farming in Whitley County, that State, until retiring from active labor. He lived four years thereafter, dying June 23, 1878, when eighty-four years old. He was a member in good standing of the Lutheran Church. His wife, Barbara, was the daughter of Bolzar Whitmore, likewise a native of Pennsylvania; and a farmer by occupation. She died in Pennsylvania about 1821. Four children were born of the first marriage: These being Mary A., Samuel and an infant, who have been deceased many years; William, who was a Lieutenant-Colonel during the late war. Of the second marriage of William Stough there were born six children. John, George and Sarah, deceased; Elizabeth, Mrs. H. Snyder, of Columbia City, Ind.; Isabel, Mrs. Bressler, of Crestline, Ohio, and Peter, who died young. George held the rank of Major in an Ohio Cavalry Regiment, and was wounded at the battle of Chickamauga Sunday morning. He fell from his horse, was captured and was taken to Libby prison, where he died six weeks later. He was buried there, but afterward his remains were removed to Columbia City, Ind. he remaining children, who were born of the third marriage, are as follows: James, a resident of Iowa; Catherine, Mrs. Anderson, of Columbia City, Ind.; Letitia, Mrs. Bryson, of Whitley County, Ind.; Joseph, a resident of that State; David, who served in an Indiana regiment during the late war, and was killed in battle, and Samuel, who died in Ohio, in childhood. Mrs. Keplinger spent her youthful days under the parental roof, acquiring such education as the primitive schools afforded, pursuing her studies in the old log schoolhouse, and at home learning to spin, and becoming the mistress of all other useful household duties. In 1832 she accompanied her father to Ohio, making the journey overland with a team. In February, 1833, she went to live with her aunt, Mrs. Kneisly, at Kneisly's Mill, Bath Township, making the journey by canal to Dayton, and thence on horseback to her destination. She lived with her aunt until her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Keplinger there was born a family of seven children, the eldest of whom a son, William S., died when about sixteen years old; Samuel, at the outbreak of the Civil War, enlisted in 1862 in the Eighth Ohio Cavalry, serving until he was disabled and obliged to return home. He was injured at the battle of Vicksburg, where his horse's ran away with the cannon, and falling he received serious injuries. He now follows the occupation of a painter in Osborn. Edward enlisted dt Springfield in 1861, in Company I, Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry, while a student at Wittenberg College, and served until failing health compelled him to accept his honorable discharge. Subsequently he returned to college and was graduated from both the classical and theological departments, and officiated as a minister of the Lutheran Church until ill health compelled him to retire. He is now engaged in general merchandising in Pueblo, Col. Catherine became the wife of Englehart Heck, a farmer of Sedgwick County, Kan.; Emily was married to Martin Moudy, and removed to Nebraska, but subsequently returned home and died, leaving a daughter, Lulu, who made her home with her grandmother until her death, at the age of thirteen years. John K. occupies himself as a mechanic, in Dayton, this State; George E. was graduated from Wilt's Commercial College, at Dayton, and for six months afterward was in the employ of the Mobile Iron Company, as a book-keeper. Later he went West and spent considerable time in travel. Then returning to Ohio, he entered the employ of Day, Field & Lowery, at Dayton, but being tunable to endure the confinement of office work, he returned home, and turned his attention to garden. ing. He is making of this an art and a science, having built a large greenhouse, with water pipes to every part of his garden, and all other conveniences for doing an extensive and first-class business in this line, in which he is very successful. He is likewise interested in bee culture, having