PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 777 times, with its rude furniture, and as soon as large enough assisted his father on the farm, and remained an inmate of the parental household till his twenty-fifth year. He then came to Springfield, and the ensuing two years carried on the grocery business, and then worked at house-painting, and later engaged in painting machinery for the Buckeye shops, and was employed there twenty-five years, having the work under contract, he being a a superior artisan in his line. In time, by judicious management of his money, he placed himself among the substantial citizens of Springfield. In 1866 he bought a lot, finely located on Chestnut Avenue, and in 1873 built his present commodious and well, furnished residence. June 27, 1844, Mr. Lewis was married to Miss Sarah J. White, a native of South Wales, and a daughter of John an Annie (Jones) White, na- tives respectively of England and Wales. Ten children were born to our subject of this marriage, of whom the following eight are living: Gertrude, wife of Hiram L. Hull ; Mary, Florence, Elizabeth, William, Leon, Charles B. and Earl M. Albert and Sarah J. are deceased. August 26, 1888, death crossed the thresehold of the. home -of our subject, and when he went forth again the faithful wife and kind mother accompanied him into the great unknown, leaving a desolate family to mourn her loss. "Her work is compassed and done, All things are seemly and ready, And her summer is just begun. But we cannot think of her idle; She must be a home-maker still, And somewhere, yet, in the hilltops Of the country that hath no pain She will watch in her beautiful doorway. To greet her loved ones again." A. D. T. WHITNEY. JOSHUA T. RIDGELY. The gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch, and whose portrait is presented on the opposite page, is well-known in Springfield, where he has lived for more than thirty-five years, and where he has been engaged in business for almost that length of that time. His trade is that of a house painter, and his reputation in this line of business is second to none in the city. He exhibits taste in the selection and combination of colors and tints, and the building decorated by him is a thing of beauty, and an ornament to the locality in which it stands. The personal character of Mr. Ridgely is an honorable one, and few professional men—who are generally considered more intellectual than those who follow trades—are better read than he. He is an ardent lover of good literature, and many fine volumes may be found in his cozy home. In fact, his library is both large and well selected, one of its most remarkable features being the numbers of Harper's Weekly for thirty-five years, all well bound. From these alone a store of information could be gleaned sufficient to give a man a liberal education in the progress of humanity. Near Traptown, Md., on the Harper's Ferry Road, Joshua Ridgely, the father of our subject, opened his eyes to the light. He adopted the profession of school teaching, which he followed for a number of years. During the War of 1812 he served his country, for which action his widow drew a pension during the last years of her life. He died at Middletown in 1864. His wife bore the maiden name of Margaret Holter. She also was born in Maryland, and was the daughter of a Revolutionary soldier. Her death took place March 4, 1877, at the old home where her husband breathed his last Some years before. The subject of this sketch was born January 3, 1831, near Middletown, Frederick County, Md., where his boyhood and youth were spent in the usual manner of boys in those days. At the age of nineteen years he went to live with his brother-in-law, and learned his trade, at which he served three years. In 1853 he came to Springfield, where for two years he did journey work with his brother-in-law. He then, engaged in business for himself, and both as workman and contractor gained steadily in reputation. The marriage of Mr. Ridgely and Miss Elizabeth Geisinger was celebrated at the bride's home, January 3, 1854, she being a native of the same town as her husband, and their 'acquaintance having begun in childhood. They have four children, named 778 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. respectively: Clara B., Charles T., Hiram G. and Byron. The daughter became the wife of William H. Holmes. In 1856 Mr. Ridgely joined the Springfield Light Artillery, and was appointed Sergeant of the company. He is a Democrat, strong in the faith, and ever ready to deposit his ballot on election day. He has served as a member of the Board of Education ten years, and his efficiency is recognized by all. His cozy home is under the oversight of a lady who combines skill as a housekeeper with pleasing social qualities, and the virtues which make it the dearest spot on earth for her loved ones, as well as an attractive place to many friends. HENRY H. HALE. Not only is this gentleman a son of a couple who were the most prominent dwellers in the locality of Bellbrook, Greene County, but he has for quite a number of years taken the leading place in matters of law and politics in that thriving village, wielding a. powerful influence throughout the community, and also doing much for the good of the people in the line of religious and moral work. He possesses the genial nature that wins friends everywhere, and is very popular wherever he is known. His paternal family. are among those whose names and deeds are a matter of historical moment in this locality, in which they, began their residence in 1802, and wherein they have borne an important part in developing the natural resources of the country, and in advancing the civilization and elevation of the inhabitants. The great-grandfather of our subject was James. Hal who was born in England, A. D., 1737. He was a follower of George Fox, and when he came to America, tradition says, that he supposed that he was living and William Penn's land, but when the Mason and Dixon line was established in 1763 to 1767, he found that he was on that belonging to Lord Baltimore, in what is now Baltimore County, Md. He therefore crossed the line, taking up his abode near Tushey's Mountain, on the Juniata River, in what, is now Blair County, Pa. How long he lived in that State is not known, but he removed from it to Mason County, Ky., where he died in 1801 or 1802. His Kentucky home was on Clark's Run, near Bryant Station, nine miles horn Maysville. His wife was Catherine Baird, who was born in 1741, and was of Welsh descent. Of this marriage there were born eight children—Rebecca,. Joseph, Lydia, John, Hannah, James, Thomas and Silas. In 1802 the widow with her children came to Ohio, and settled in Sugar Creek Township, this county. The fourth child in the family above named was born in Maryland, November 25, 1775. He married Sarah Bowen, a native of Chester County, Pa., with whom he lived happily until about the year 1814., when she breathed her last in the thirty-sixth year of her age. She was the mother of six children, all of whom are now deceased. In 1802, the family took up their residence in this county, wherein John Hale had previously purchased eighty acres of land from the United States Go ernment. He cleared up the land and started tannery, the first in the township, living there until 1838, when he removed to Indiana. he sold his estate to William Hasten, who disposed of it to David John, from whom the father of our subject, and son of the original proprietor, afterward bought it. The second marriage of John Hale took place in this county, June 29, 1815, his bride being Sarah Lewis, and the ceremony being performed by John Clark, Justice of the Peace. The union resulted in the birth of ten Children : Harmon, now deceased; Rhoda; Nancy, Lewis, and Rachael, all of whom are deceased; John, Riley. Sarah, David, deceased; and Martha. The death of the father took place in Kosciusko County, Ind., September 25, 1845, at the age of sixty-nine years and ten months.. While living in this county, John Hale was a member of Capt. Ammi Maltbie's Company of Ohio Militia. He was first called into service upon receipt of the news that Gen. Hull had surrendered Detroit, in August, 1812, when the company was ordered to report at Xenia with a gun, tomahawk and knapsack. After being out three months Mr. hale returned to his home, and ere long was again called out, but on this occasion PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 779 hired as a substitute Jacob Martin, paying him a rifle, tomahawk, a pair of shoes, knife, a knapsack and $1.50 in money. The substitute was out but three days. On the third call of the militia, Mr. Hale hired as a substitute Jacob Fallis, and whether he took part in any battles is not known. When John Hale came to this county he was accompanied by his wife and two sons, James and Bowen. The following year, on August 26, 1803, his third son, Silas, was born on the farm which 'comprised the west half of the southeast quarter of section 3, township 2, range 6. He learned cabinet making and undertaking, at Wilmington, beginning his apprenticeship in 1820 and serving three years. He then came to Bellbrook, and began business for himself, continuing it until 1833, when with his father he opened a dry-goods and grocery store in a building that is still standing, and in which the business was carried on for fifty-six years. In 1839 he was elected Township Treasurer, a position which he resigned after forty-three years service that was continuous except one year. In 1855 he was appointed Postmsater, a position which he held for thirty-one years and two months. In 1854 he was elected Justice of Peace, serving in that capacity two terms. He was a member of the Masonic Order and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His religious belief coincided with that expressed by the Protestant Methodist Church, with which he united in 1840, and in which he had held the official positions f Steward and Trustee. After a long life of usefulness and well doing, he breathed his last June 20, 1889, his mortal remains being deposited in the Bellbrook cemetery. The wife of Silas Hale, with whom he was united in marriage July 20, 1830, and with whom he lived fifty-nine years, bore the maiden name of Miriam Opdyke. She is the sixth of the ten children born to Henry and Catherine (Cummings) OpdykeW who were natives of New Jersey. The other members of the family circle were christened Electa, Mary Ann, Peninah, Clarissa, Martha, George, Louisa, Emily Jane and Oliver Perry. The Opdykes came to America from Holland, making their settlement in New Jersey, where the father of Mrs. Hale was born, November 16, 1774. He died in Sugar Creek Township, this county, January 23, 1825, his death resulting from an accident. He was digging a well on his farm, had just completed it and was in the bottom, when he sent up in the bucket a mattock, which caught in the side of the well, and falling, struck and killed him. The brick house now owned by Fred Multhup, just northwest of the village of Bellbrook, was built by him. His wife breathed her last November 1, 1854. Mrs. Silas hale opened her eyes to the light February 5, 1814, and is now living in Bell-brook. Although she has reached the ripe age of seventy-seven years, she enjoys excellent health, and is still very active. She belongs to the Protestant Methodist Church. The fraternal band in which Squire Hale, of this sketch, is the fourth member, included ten brothers and sisters, of whom we note the following: Dorinda, the widow of Dr. J. R. Brelsford, and the mother of three children, lives in Florida; John C. is living in Adams County, Ind., and he has one child ; Francis G., whose home is in Dayton, this State, has one child; Mary Jane is the wife of James Hartsook. and the mother of four children, her home being in Caesar Creek Township, this county; Bowen enlisted in Company D, Seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry, and died from typhoid fever, at Camp Chase, April 22, 1862, and was unmarried; Angeline died, in 1848, at the age of three years; James R, the editor of the Spring Valley Blade, is married and has one child; Melancthon died unmarried at the age of twenty-two years, the date of his decease being October 12, 1872; Silas Opdyke, whose home is in Bellbrook, is married and has one child. In a log house, in the village of Bellbrook, at 3:30 A. M., on November 13, 1836, the eyes of Squire Hale opened to the light. He received a common-school education, and spent his youth in the village performing services in his father's store and the pose-office. In April, 1861, he took up arms in defense of the Union, being enrolled in Company H. Second Kentucky Infantry, under Capt. James E. Stacy, ftis enlistment being under the call for three months' men. He was at Camp Clay, near Cincinnati, for three weeks and then discharged. On August 12, 1862, he again en- 780 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. listed, becoming a member of Company F, Thirty-fourth Ohio Infantry, under Capt. S. R. S. West. The command to which he belonged spent the most of their time in the service in the Big Kanawha Valley, W. Va. and Mr. Hale took part in a raid on Wythville, during which he rode three hundred miles in five days. On April 12, 1864, he received a slight wound on the side of his neck, his only injury during his army life. Sickness compelled his removal to the hospital at Gallipolis, where he spent some fifteen months. He was discharged June 12, 1865, and returning to his home spent a month amid the scenes of his earlier life. The family in which Squire Hale had found the lady whom he desired to make his wife, having removed to Missouri from this section, in 1864, he made a journey to that State, where he was married, for some time afterward making his home at Savannah. He occupied himself in clecking, in pedagogical labors and in farm work until illness determined him to return to Bellbrook, which he did in April, 1867. The following March he became a partner with his father, with whom he continued in mercantile business until June, 1889, the connection being dissolved by the death of the father. The marriage rites between Squire Hale and Sarah Conner were celebrated July 25,1865. The bride was born in Bellbrook, July 8, 1840, and received a common-school education in this place, and the best of home training from her estimable parents. Her father, John Conner, was born in Delaware, October 6, 1809, and died at Rochester, Mo., October 16, 1879. The family to which he belonged is numbered among the early settlers in the Buckeye State, as is that of the Austins, into which he married. Susan Austin) who became his wife, was born May 20, 1818, her people being members of the Society of Friends, and formerly residents in New Jersey. Her death took place in Missouri, May 13, 1879. She was the mother of four children: Thomas, who died in 1862; Vincent, who is living in Dayton, is married and has two children; Mrs. Hale; and John, who lives in Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Hale six children have been born: Jesse G. opened his eyes to the light in Andrew County, Mo., May 18, 1866; James C. was born May 4, 1869, at Bellbrook; John S., who was born September 12, 1871, is now living at Lebanon; Susan Miriam, born July 7, 1874. died August 20, 1875; Katie Clyde was born November 16, 1876; Edith was born August 30, 1883, and died September 24, following. Mr. and Mrs. Hale and their children belong tc the Protestant Methodist Church, in which Mi Hale is a Class-Leader, while he also holds tht office of Superintendent of the Sunday-school and is a teacher. He has been a member of the Sons of Temperance. In 1868 he was elected Corporation Clerk, serving in that capacity ten years. The next year he was elected Township Clerk, and held that office twelve years. A year after his election to that position he was the successful candidate for Justice of the Peace, in which position he is now serving his seventh term. In 1888 he was elected` Township Trustee, and still holds that office, and he has also been a member of the Village Council for many years. He has always been a Republican, and no man in this section of country has done more to advance the interests of the party than he. He was a delegate to the State Convention which nominated Charles Foster, whose first term as Governor resulted from that nomination. One of the most noticable adornments of the home of Mr. Hale is a very fine geological cabinet, which proves of great interest to those who find "sermons in stones." It is needless for us to multiply words in regard to the position of the family in the community and the esteem in which they are held. CAPT. JOHN H. JACOBY, proprietor of the Valley Mills, an institution familiar to all the residents of Xenia Township, is one of the solid men of Greene County, and a universal favorite, both in social and business circles. In fact he is a born gentleman in the broadest sense of the term, and this comprises all the qualities which can reasonably be required in the makeup of one man. Of stanch Pennsylvania stock, he was PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 783 born on the 31st of December, 1814, in Northumberland County, that State, and is a representative of one of its finest old families. Henry. Jacoby, the father of our subject, came with his family to this county in 1815, and settled in Oldtown, where he was employed by his father, the grandfather of our subject, John Jacoby by name, for about two years. He then removed to Massies Creek, where he built a small commit! and distillery, which he operated successfully for about ten or twelve years. He next turned his attention to farming, and in 1844 built the mills now operated by his son, John H. In the meantime the latter had developed into manhood, and became familiar with both the arts of milling and farming. Father Jacoby rested from his earthly labors in the latter part of December, 1859, passing peacefully away at the old farm. His wife bore the maiden name of Rebecca Corry. She also died at the old homestead about 1867. Their family consisted of seven children, two of whom are living. The subject of this notice was the second child of his parents, and has spent his entire life in the township of his birth. From the time of reaching manhood until the death of his father, he was associated with the latter in business, and availed himself of the judgment of that disinterested friend in his business operations, and it is probable that this contributed largely to his success. Since the death of the elder Jacoby, John H. has carried on the mills and farm, the former of which have a capacity of seventy-five barrels per day. They are equipped with modern machinery, including the roller process, and have become an institution quite indispensable to the people of this part of the county. The Captain is quite independent, financially, having besides his mill property four hundred acres of land in this county. His parents were both members of the Presbyterian Church, and John H. since a young man, has faithfully followed in their footsteps, giving also his adherence and support to this religious denomination. He commenced attending religious services at a very early age, being first carried to the old church in the town of Clifton on a pillow by his mother. The Captain earned his title by assuming the command of a company of Light Horse Volunteers which had its existence prior to the late war. He has always taken an active part in political affairs, and is prominent in the ranks of the Republican party in this county. If he has failed in any respect in the performance of all the duties of a good citizen, it is that he still remains a bachelor. J. P. CHEW, editor and publisher of the Gazette and Torchlight, Xenia. The rapid advancement which civilization has made during the present century, is largely to be attributed to the press. As a disseminator of news the printing press is indispensable, as an educator its influence is immeasurable. There is no region in the United States where the newspaper does not enter, either fresh from the press or yellow with age. The old problem, "Is the pen mightier than the sword ?" has been solved long since by practical experience. If Archimides could have placed his famous lever upon a printing press, he would have come nearer moving the world than if he had secured what he wished, a base outside of it from which to operate. Greene. County is notably a county of newspapers, while the editorial staff is represented by pleasant, forcible, and pointed writers, who advocate their various political views and principles with much ability and success. Among the various newspapers which mold the public opinion of the citizens of Greene County, very prominent mention belongs to the Gazette and Torchlight, and among the successful editors and capable business men who 'compose the editorial staff, one of the most noticeable is J. P. Chew, who is so ably conducting the above-mentioned paper. Two papers were consolidated to form what is now the daily and semi-weekly Gazette and Torchlight, • and as "in union there is strength," so by joining these prominent newspapers, an added stimulus was given the political and social circles, as represented by one of the most influential papers of the community. On September 18, 1838, the Torchlight was established, and the funds necessary to found and 784 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. conduct it were subscribed by sixty-nine citizens. From its first issue until its consolidation with the Gazette, August 7,1888, a period of fifty years, it was an influential force in first the Whig and afterward the Republican party. Many able men at different times were in control of it, among whom were W. B. Fairchild, Robert McBratney, E. S. Nichols, W. T. Bascom, Perry Hawes, J. M. Milburn, Coates Kinney and J. D. Stine. The Xenia Gazette was established, August 15, 1868, by J. F. Patton, Thomas Tiffany and Warren Anderson. Subsequently Mr. Tiffany died, and Mr. Anderson sold his interest to Col R. P. Findley. On November 1, 1877, the office was purchased by J. P. Chew, and has since been conducted by him in connection with his son, W. B. Chew, and his son-in-law, J. 0. McCormick. In the year 1880 Mr. Chew changed the weekly Gazette to a semi-weekly paper. In addition thereto, on November 21, 1881, he established the daily Gazette. On the 7th of August, 1888, Mr. Chew purchased the Torchlight, and consolidated the two papers under the title of Gazette and Torchlight. It now has the combined circulation two of Xenia's oldest newspaper, which carries it into four thousand homes, and having a very complete office outfit it enjoys remarkable prosperity. When, in 1888, it removed to its present quarters on Green Street, two rooms were sufficient to accommodate its business and one of them formerly known as Firemen's Hall, afterward as the Y. M. C. A. Hall. Now it occupies seven rooms, and the business has increasd many fold under the present management. In connection with this sketch appears a portrait of Mr. Chew, who stands in the front ranks of the journalistic forces of Greene County. DARWIN PEIRCE. This worthy descendant of a good ancestral line, occupies a portion of the old Peirce estate in Clark County, which, during the life of his grandfather reached the extent of two thousand acres. Jonathan Peirce came to this section from Chester County, Pa., in 1832, first spending a year in Warren County, and then becoming a resident of Clark County. For several years he operated rented land, but eventually acquired the splendid estate before mentioned, the land being all in one body. He had been a large farmer in the Keystone State, but be coming involved, not only lost his property, but was left several thousand dollars in debt. After getting started here, he returned to the East and bought up his notes, settling all his indebtedness dollar for dollar. He made quite a fortune in the Peirce hay rake, in which he was interested. After his death, three days were required to sell the stock that was on his farm. He passed away in 1852. at the age of sixty-five years, leaving two children, among whom and their heirs his estate was divided. The wife of Grandfather Peirce was Hannah, daughter of Abram Darlington, of Chester County, Pa. The Darlington family was a large, wealthy, and aristocratic one. When Mr. Peirce met with the financial reverses before mentioned, he would not remain in the section where his wife's people resided, but preferred to retrieve his fortune in a different locality—which he did. Both the Darlington and Peirce families were of English stock, and Quaker faith. They had to leave England on account f their religion, the Quakers at that time being persecuted in England. Jonathan and Hannah Peirce were the parents of five children: William died in 1864, leaving a son and two daughters; Darwin died unmarried shortly after the family came to Ohio; Susan D. became the wife of a Mr. Jennings, but died without children, prior to the death of her father; Edwin died in 1846, leaving three children: Jacob, who now lives in Den.. ver, Colo., had seven children, four of whom are yet living. Edwin Peirce, the father of our subject, married Miss Frances Williams, who was born in Ireland, and accompanied her parents to America when she was but an infant. Her father, William Williams, located in Maryland, and died there, the other members of the family afterward coming to Springfield, Ohio. After his marriage, Edwin Peirce remained with his father, his wife having charge of the house. After her husband's death, Mrs. Frances Peirce continued to keep house for her father-in-law until PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 785 his death in 1852. Edwin Peirce, although physically a cripple, was mentally vigorous, and possessed a character which won respect. His family consisted of our subject; Hannah M., principal of the High School in Delaware, this State; Laura, who married Seymour Harrold, and lives in Delaware, Ohio, their family comprising three children. Mr. Harrold now owns one thousand acres of land near the home f our subject. The subject of this biographical notice, was born July 5, 1841, and at the age of nineteen years took charge of the farm where he now lives. As the estate had become seriously involved through bad management, he had to work hard to save the land. His mother and two sisters were living with him, and not long after the war broke out, he left them to take care f the farm, and gave himself to his country. His name was attached to the muster roll of Company C, One Hundred and Tenth Ohio Infantry, his term of service dating from August 5, 1862. He joined the army of the Potomac, and took part in various heavy engagements. At Winchester the regiment was surrounded, and half of its members were lost in cutting their way out. At the terrible battle of the Wilderness, Mr. Peirce bore his share of hard fighting, as he afterward did at Cedar Creek, to which Sheridan came "from. Winchester twenty miles away," making the ride which have been so glowingly described by our artist-poet, T. B. Read. Mr. Peirce took part in all the battles of Richmond and Petersburg, being with his regiment in all its engagements, and although wounded three times, never consenting to go to the hospital. He was shot in the left side with a minie ball, and also in the left leg, while his right leg was injured by a fragment of a shell. After a meritorious service, he was mustered out in July, 1865, and returned to the Buckeye State to resume the peaceful occupation of farming. With the help of his sisters, our subject soon cleared the old place of debt, and on October 3, 1871, had his affairs on so firm a footing, that he felt justified in taking to himself a wife. He was therefore married to Miss Mary K, daughter of Mathew Mattinson, of South Charleston. The years which have passed have brought Mr. Peirce prosperity and happiness, and have taught him a higher appreciation of his wife's character than he had as a lover. The associations and duties of married life have brought out her good qualities in brighter relief, as they have strengthened and developed his own character. They have two children, John and Thomas, who will be graduated from the High School at South Charleston, at the conclusion of the present school year. Mr. Peirce operates two hundred and seventy acres of the old homestead, one-third of this acreage belonging to his sister Hannah. He carries on general farming so successfully, as to supply his home with every comfort and enable him to lay aside something on which to depend in declining years. He is Colonel of the Clark County Regiment, of the Grand Army Post, and by his title is quite popularly known. He is now a member of the Soldiers' Relief Commission of the county. In political affairs he takes an active part, working for the Republican party, by whom his name was prominently mentioned at the spring caucus in 1890, as a candidate for Sheriff. SIMON H. WOLF. The agriculturists of Bath Township, Greene County, have an excellent representative in the gentleman above named, who occupies a valuable estate on section 18. It comprises one hundred and thirty-eight and a half acres of valley land, watered by Beaver Creek, all being rich and tillable, and excellently adapted for the cultivation of grain and hay, to which it is mainly devoted. Mr. Wolf also raises graded cattle and high grade Norman horses, using two teams to operate the farm. The improvements on the estate are such as are common throughout the older agricultural districts, where farming has been carried on for years, anti enterprise exhibited by the tillers of the soil. The family of which our subject is a member is numbered among the earliest settlers in the county, his grandfather, John Wolf, having come hither in 1807. A native of Lancaster County, Pa., and a tailor by trade, he had followed that business in his native State for a number of years ere coming 786 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. to Ohio and buying land. He afterward brought his family on in a wagon, and while his sons attended to the farm near Byron, he .continued to work at his trade. He became the owner of a large tract of land, and was able to start his children in life. He was a member of the Reformed Church. Simon Wolf, the father of our subject, was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1805, and was brought to Ohio when about eighteen months old. Being reared in Bath Township, he had the advantages of but meager school privileges,but did the best possible in his surroundings to acquire information. He followed agriculture, locating after he had reached man's estate on a farm given him by his father, and becoming more than ordinarily successful. He became the owner of about six hundred acres of land, in four farms, and still owns about four hundred acres. In 1839 he bought property on the Dayton Pike, one mile west of Byron, and locating upon it, he improved and operated it until 1861, when he rented it and retired. In addition to his farming he had operated a sawmill some. In his early days he and his brothers carried on a flour-mill and still-house, and hauled their products to Cincinnati, with four horse teams, taking eight barrels of whiskey or twelve barrels of flour to a load, and consuming seven or eight days on the trip. Simon Wolf is now living with his son, Hicks, in Bath Township, of which he is the oldest settler now living. Politically, he is a stanch Republican, and his religious adherence is given to the German Reformed Church. The mother of our subject, and wife of Simon Wolf, above-mentioned, was born in Frederick County, Md., and bore the maiden name of Christina Kershner. Her father, Daniel Kershner, was a native of Maryland, and a blacksmith by trade. He was one of the early settlers on Massey Creek, Xenia Township, this county, where he worked at his trade, subsequently buying a farm in Bath Township, near Byron, where he died. Mrs. Wolf departed this life in 1876, and was the mother of four children: Martin K., who lives in Gentry County, Mo.; Elizabeth, Mrs. Dr. Parsons, who died in Greene County, Ohio; D. Hicks and Simon H. Martin K. and D. Hicks were in the one hundred days' service during the late war, as members of the One Hundred and Fifty-first Ohio Infantry. The gentleman with whose name this sketch is introduced, was born April 15, 1841, in the township in which he now resides, received such education as could be obtained in the common schools, and being reared on the farm was early put to work. He remained under the parental roof until he had passed his twentieth birthday, when he entered the Union army, being mustered in at Yellow Spring, as a member of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, Company C, in October, 1861. The regiment remained at Camp Dennison six months, learning military tactics and cavalry evolutions, after which they were sent South in time to take part in the battle of Shiloh, April 6, 1862. They fought all day Sunday and Monday on that bloody field, following which, came skirmishes and cavalry dashes through Mississippi and Georgia. Young Wolf served three years and two months, and in December, 1864, was mustered out at Marietta, Ga., by reason of the expiration of his term of enlistment. He was sent to Columbus, Ohio, where he was honorably discharged, having to the best of his ability served his country in her time of need. Returning to his home, Mr. Wolf began farming for himself on the place he still occupies, and which falls to him upon his father's death. He has carried on a successful agricultural career, and has also won the esteem of his fellow-citizens for his upright, Christian character, good citizenship, and kindliness in his relations in life. He is a member of Steele Post, G. A. R., at Fairfield, and an active member of the Reformed Church at Byron. In politics he is a straight Republican. As all intelligent, moral citizens are, he is interested in the cause of education and other elevating movements, and gives them his hearty support. The estimable woman who has presided over Mr. Wolf's home for many years, and with whom he was united in marriage December 18, 1866, was born in Bath Township, and reared and educated in the county. She bore the maiden name of Kate Schauer, and is a daughter of George Schauer, a native of this county, whose parents came here from Pennsylvania at an early day. George Schauer was a farmer until his death, which occurred in 1889. The marriage of our subject and his PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 789 wife was celebrated near Oldtown, Xenia Township, and has been blessed by the birth of three children. The two sons, Charles and Clifford, are still with their parents; Josephine the second child and only daughter, is the wife of Walter Fackler, a farmer in Xenia Township. EPHRAIM NEWTON TIBBETTS, a prominent and well-to-do citizen of Springfield, has, by his far-seeing enterprise, shrewd judgment and business tact, been an important factor in promoting the growth of this city, and has thus materially advanced its prosperity. He has an extensive acquaintance here and elsewhere, and his name is honored in financial and social circles throughout the county. He and his family are people of high standing in this community, and their cosy, attractive home is the seat of a generous and abounding hospitality, often shared by friend or stranger. Mr. Tibbetts was born in the town of Madison, Carroll County, N. H., April 28, 1818. His father, Ephraim Tibbetts, was born near Portland, Me., and was a son of Samuel Tibbetts, a native of the same locality. The grandfather was a Revolutionary hero, and did faithful service under Washington during the seven years. in which the Colonists fought for independence. He was a skillful millwright, and was successful in making money, a part of which he invested in lands near Portland. He finally sold his property there at an advanced price, and moving to New Hampshire located in that part of Stratford County now included in Carroll County, of which he was a pioneer. His object in going there was to secure more land than he had in Maine, that he might settle each of his sons on a farm. His land was located in Madison, and he devoted his time to its improvement, and resided there until his busy life was brought to a close by his death at a ripe old age. His wife, whose maiden name was Haines, died in Maine. The father of our subject was reared and married in his native State, and subsequently accompanied his father and brothers in their removal to New Hampshire. He located in the town of Madison, and on his fine farm there successfully engaged in farming and stock-raising till death closed his mortal career. The maiden name of his wife was Dorcas Holmes; she was born near Limerick, Me., and died on the home farm in Madison. Her father, Samuel Holmes, was a native of the same place, and served under Washington in the same regiment with the paternal grandparent of our subject, doing gallant work in the cause of freedom. He spent his last years in his native State. Our subject was one of ten children, eight sons and two daughters, all of whom were reared to maturity, with the exception of two sons who died in infancy. The son of whom we write passed the early years of his life on the paternal homestead, the place of his birth. He was a lad of an ambitibus, adventurous spirit, well-endowed with independence, self-reliance and capability, and at the youthful age of fourteen years he took the ordering of his life in his own hands, and borrowing five dollars, started out into the world to begin an independent existence, with all his earthly possessions tied in a cotton handkerchief. He walked to Portland, fifty miles distant, and then boarded a steamer bound for Boston, and at sunrise the next morning stood on a wharf in that city, and before night had secured a situation with a painter, who took him into his family and gave him his board and sixteen dollars a month for wages. Our subject was employed in house painting and paper hanging, etc., and remained in Boston three years. We next hear of him in Cincinnati, he having traveled thither by rail to Providence, thence by steamer to New York, where a sharper sold him a ticket to Pittsburg to go by canal and rail. He was to have his board and the contract was kept with him to furnish his meals as far as Columbia, Pa., and from there he was made to pay for his board during the three weeks' journey on a canal boat to Pittsburg. In that city he engaged passage on a keel boat, and while they were voyaging down the Ohio, the water became so low that at Wheeling he had to assist in pulling the boat along over the shallow places, and from there to the end of the journey the captain gave him $1 a day and his board for his services. He landed in Cincinnati in 790 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. September with a few dollars in his pocket, and spent his first night in the Galt House. He soon found temporary employment in the city, but work being scarce there, he soon had to seek it elsewhere, and for the ensuing four years though he made his home in Cincinnati, he was working in various other places the most of the time. Mr. Tibbetts then ventured into business on his own account in Cincinnati, and was prospered in his undertaking. In 1866 he came to Springfield to take up his residence in this city, and bought seven acres of land, later investing in other real-estate until he had forty seven acres of valuable land included within the city. When he purchased it there was but one house on the entire tract, and he utilized his land for agricultural purposes until it became worth more as building property, the city having grown in this direction quite rapidly. With shrewd and characteristic enterprise he laid out an addition to the city, and offered such liberal inducements to home seekers that he soon disposed of the lots at a good advantage. He has since platted two other additions to the city, extending from Clifton to Reed Streets and from Pearl to Taylor Streets, and there are now two hundred and ten houses in these additions. Mr. Tibbetts has been twice married. He was first wedded in 1843 to Miss Elizabeth Timberman, a most estimable lady, a native of New Jersey, born near Philadelphia, and a daughter of Christopher Timberman. Mrs. Tibbetts died in 1853, leaving a daughter, Addie, now the wife of Joseph Whet-don. The marriage f our subject to his present wife was solemnized August 28, 1855. Mrs. Tibbetts maiden name was Abbie Tibbetts, and she was a native of Brownfield, Me. Her father was also a native f the Pine Tree State, and was there reared and married, Miss Hannah Decker, of English birth and antecedents becoming his wife. Her father, John Decker, emigrated with his family from his native England to this country and settled in Standish, Me., where the ,rest of his life was passed. M. Tibbett's father learned the trade of a shoemaker when young, and carried it on in the winter, and during the remainder of the year engaged in farming, and spent his closing years in Brownfield. Mrs. Tibbett's mother was three years old when her parents brought her to America, and the rest of her life was passed in Maine, her death occurring on the home farm in Brownfield. The following is recorded of the five children born to our subject and his wife: Ida Belle is the wife of John F. Meals; Cassius C. married Florence Meals; Carrie May is the wife of Dr. J. P. Dugan; Minnie W. and Bertha, the two youngest children, are at home. Mr. Tibbetts is a genial, whole-souled, high principled man, whose big kindly heart has bound to him many friends, and he is a general favorite, exerting a good influence upon all with whom he comes in contact. His public spirit is well known, and one who has done so much as he for the up-building of the city is justly regarded as its benefactor. He is just and honorable in his business dealings, always doing the right thing, and has the entire confidence of his fellow-citizens. We cannot close this brief sketch of the husband without paying a passing tribute to the wife who has been so much to him. She is a true helpmate, and has aided him to make life a success, and, indeed, as has been said of another, " fills the perfect measure of wife, mother, and friend," and shares with him the regard of their neighbors. Both have a broad outlook on life, and have earnest and liberal religious views, which find expression in the Universalist faith, of which they are firm believers. In politics Mr. Tibbetts is a stanch Republican. A portrait of Mr. Tibbetts may be found on another page. ANDREW McELWAIN. Nearly forty-six years ago, in the spring of 1844, a young man started out from his home among the hills of Cumberland County, Pa., intent on seeking his fortune. He proceeded on foot to Pittsburg, then took a river steamer for Cincinnati and from there walked to Xenia, entering the embryo city with a capital of $37 in his pocket. The surroundings and the outlook pleased him, and he accordingly here took up his permanent abode, and with the exception of one year he has since been a resident thereof. From that modest be- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 791 ginning he worked his way upward, following his trade of a carpenter, and is now well-to-do, owning valuable property in and around the city. Many of the finest residences in Xenia have been constructed under his supervision, and he has superintended the erection of a number of its public. buildings. His career as a man and a citizen has been such as to commend him to the esteem and confidence of all with whom he has had dealings. A native of Mifflin Township, Cumberland County, Pa., the subject of this notice was born March 22, 1821, and is the son of William Bell and Susannah (Failor) McElwain, who were likewise natives of Cumberland County, the .father born July 1, 1794, and the mother February 3, 1797. William McElwain was a lifelong farmer, and spent his entire life in his native State. In politics, he was a stanch Democrat, and in religion, a Presbyterian. The mother leaned to the doctrines of the Lutheran Church, and both finally became connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. To the parents of our subject, who were married. December 12, 1816, there was born a family of twelve children, ten of whom lived to mature years, viz.: Margaret Jane, Andrew, Sarah Ann, William. Bell, Jr., Susannah, James, Mary, Lacy and Elizabeth. These were all married and reared families of their own. Elinor died when about thirty-four years old, and the other child died in infancy. Mrs. Susannah (Failor) McElwain departed this life at the old homestead in Cumberland County, Pa., May 2, 1839. The father contracted a second marriage, January 13, 1846, with Miss Elizabeth Kerr, and there were born to them three children—Robert Henderson, Thomas Simpson and Rebecca Agnes. Mrs. Elizabeth McElwain died May 26, 1853.. William B. McElwain Survived this wife for a period of twenty-one years, and died July 8, 1874; at a ripe old age. The paternal grandfather, Andrew McElwain, was likewise a native of Cumberland County, Pa. He grew up amOng the Indians, and when a child, upon one occasion when the family was fleeing to the fort for safety from the savages, he was overlooked and left in his cradle. It was not very long, however, until he was missed by his mother and rescued. He was reared to farm pursuits and learned distilling. Upon the outbreak of the Revolutionary War he shouldered his musket and 'did good service in the cause of the Colonists. He married for his first wife a Miss Shannon, and there were born to them the children named respectively: Robert, Andrew, Thomas, Jane, Mary and. Elizabeth. The boys grew up large and athletic, presenting fine specimens of physical manhood. His first wife died, and he was then married to Miss Margaret Bell, a native of Belltown, Pa:, and of Scotch parentage. All male members of the Bell family were also of large stature, one of them being over six feet in height. The father of Margaret Bell could call sixty of his descendants from his own door in Belltown. Grandfather McElwain by this marriage became the father of four more children—William, James., John. and Sarah. He and his children were, Presbyterians in religious belief. He died about 1816. The paternal great-grandfather of our subject, also named Andrew, was a native of Scotland, whence he emigrated to Ireland and then crossed the Atlantic to America. He was afterward married to Mary Mickey, who was born in Delaware, in 1728. On the maternal side of the house, the grandfather of our subject was Andrew Failor, of Pennsylvania. He married Elizabeth Unauch, and both were of German descent. The six children born to them were named respectively: Susannah, Andrew, Elizabeth, Barbara, Mary and Nicholas. The last mentioned is still living and a resident of Missouri. Uncle Failor was an early settler of Crawford County, Pa., and a prominent man, serving as Associate County Judge for a period of fourteen years. He also acted in the capacity of Surveyor- several years, and spent his last days in Ohio. The subject of this notice remained with his 'parents on the farm in his native county until a young man of twenty-four years, obtaining his education in the common school and being trained to habits of industry and economy. After leaving school he occupied himself as a teacher one term, and when nineteen years old commenced learning the carpenter's trade, which he has since followed. He 792 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. was first married January 1, 1845, to Miss Margaret Ann Matts, the wedding taking place at the bride's home in Springfield, this State. Mrs. McElwain like her husband was born in Cumberland County, Pa., April 11, 1825, and was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Hyland) Matts, who came to this State at an early day, locating in Springfield, where the father followed coopering. He had learned this trade in 1812 in Philadelphia, to which he had emigrated from his native State of New Jersey. He and his estimable wife spent their last years in Springfield, Ohio, he living to the advanced age of ninety-three years. Of this union there were born two children—Mary Ellen, now the wife of John Null, and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Margaret McElwain departed this life at her home in Xenia, December 28, 1846. She was a lady of many estimable qualities, and a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The second wife of our subject was in her maidenhood Miss Catherine D. Bower, who was born in Clear Spring, Md., and they were married August 17, 1852. Her parents were David and Rachel (Hyland) Bower, who were natives respectively of Dauphin County, Pa., and Washington County, Md. Mr. Bower was a hatter by trade, and died in Pennsylvania when middle aged. His widow and family came to this county in 1845, and the mother is now deceased. Our subject by this marriage became the father of seven children —Emma C., who died when eighteen months old; Andrew Asbury, Dennis Bower; Alice May, the wife of John Clemons, of Springfield; Laverna Kate, the wife of Frank Wolf, Jr.; Laura Bell and Etta Grover. Mr. and Mrs. McElwain have long been connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church in Xenia, in which Mr. McElwain officiated as Class-Leader for a period of forty years, and has 'been Steward for twenty-five years. He was the Treasurer of the church for over sixteen years. Mr. McElwain rejoices in the possession of nine grandchildren. His daughter, Mrs. Mary E. Null, is the mother of two children—Laverna and McElwain Aliger; Laverna K., Mrs. Wolf, has two children—Margaret and Raymond C.; Andrew A. is the father of two children—Frank Wolf, Gertrude Alberta and Andrew Asbury; Dennis H. has two children—Frederick Beall and Paul Harrison. Since taking up his abode in Xenia Mr. McElwain has several times returned to his old !tonne in Pennsylvania, and renewed the associations of his boyhood days. He has also been across the Mississippi into the State of Kansas and other parts of the West. During the Civil War he served several days with the Home Guards, and engaged in some skirmishing in the vicinity of Camp Denison. ADAM CARN. Prominent among the native-born citizens of Clark County, whose parents were numbered among its early pioneers, may be properly mentioned the subject of this notice, who owns and occupies a well-tilled farm on section 10, German Township. He was born in this township April 14, 1827, and is the son of Peter and Saloma (Rockel) Carn, who were natives of Pennsylvania. The parents of our subject were reared and married in their native State, where they lived until 1823, and then resolved upon seeking their fortunes farther West. Coming overland to Clark County, this State, the father secured a tract of land fr ma the Government, front which he opened. up a farm now occupied by his son Adam. He settled practically in the woods with his little family, putting up a log cabin and a stable, making his roofs of straw. In that humble dwelling Adam Carn was born. It is still standing, and forms one of the old landmarks of a bygone time. Its builder has long since passed away, but his many virtues still have a place in the remembrance of those who knew him. He died December 8, 1850, firm in the faith of the Lutheran Church, and in politics, a Democrat. To the parents of our subject there were born three children, of whom Adam is the only survivor. The mother passed to her long home about 1871. Adam was required to make himself useful at an early age, and assisted his father in cultivating the land, and making the improvements upon the farm which is now his property. His educa-   PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 795 tional advantages were exceedingly limited, there being but little time or opportunity for him to attend school. Schools were conducted on the subscription plan, and mostly during the winter season the boys, especially, of the neighborhood being expected to help their parents during the seasons of plowing, sowing and reaping. The boyhood and youth of our subject passed uneventfully until his marriage, which occurred September 27, 1851. His bride was Miss Barbara Reiman, a native of Virginia, and the daughter of Samuel and Catharine Reiman, who are now deceased. Of this union there was born one daughter, Mary, the wife of Theodore Heller, and they live with our subject. Mr. Cain owns one hundred and forty-two acres of good land, the most of which is in productive condition, and to this he gives the most of his time and attention. He meddles very little with politics, simply giving his support at the polls to the Democratic party. He has always maintained a warm interest in the growth and development of his native county, and by keeping one of its best farms in a good condition, has thus contributed his quota to its general prosperity. . JACOB KLEIN. This gentleman is quite an old settler of Xenia, where he has an established reputation as a man of high business ability and excellent character. During the early years of his residence here he was so thoroughly identified with the efforts to secure a Catholic Church that the history of the movement is almost a history of himself. Probably there is no man in the neighborhood to whom greater credit is due for the success of that organization in this city. The eyes of Mr. Klein first saw the light of day in Bavaria, Germany, November 23, 1822, and in May, 1832, he came with his parents, Wendel and Mary Ann (Schetzer) Klein, to Cincinnati. The father bought a farm in Brown County, near Georgetown, and upon it he built a church and also donated land for the Catholic graveyard. With such an example before him it is not strange that young Klein, soon after beginning his career in life, should have begun his endeavors to establish a church here. When about twenty-two years old he left his home and came to Xenia where he embarked in the business of a baker and confectioner and a dealer in groceries. He continued in business until about four years ago, at present being occupied with the renting of his city property, tobacco growing and the ice business. He owns four stores on West Main Street, a fine brick residence of twelve rooms just beyond Hoven & Allison's rope walk, an ice-house and about nine acres of land within the city limits. This fortune has been built up by his own efforts and reflects credit upon his character and capabilities. A few months after Mr. Klein took up his residence here he had mass read in his house, Father Yonker, afterward Bishop, coming over from the Emanuel Church in Dayton. There were but nine Catholics in the neighborhood and our subject is the only one of that number now left here. After this first mass was read, a church organization was made and ere long they were visited by Bishop Purcell, after which a subscription was started for a building. Mr. Klein not only had charge of the subscription but in his own name bought the lots where the church now stands, holding them for its use and donating $400 for its benefit. He aided largely in the enterprise and was one of the prominent members, among others who helped to build, being John Day and T. O'Neil. Mr. Klein also bought and held land for the burying-ground until the church was able to pay for it, buying and selling at $60 per acre, when he might have made a a great profit on it; he also laid out the yard and paid $20 for his own lot. Mr. Klein also rented a room and started a parochial school; afterward he built a schoolhouse of one story, to which later another story was added. He received his pay from the church in small amounts as they were able to pay. In August, 1844, Mr. Klein was united in marriage with Miss Elenora Rhinehart, the marriage ceremony being performed in the church on his father's farm. Of this union three children were born, of whom but one are now living—Wen- 796 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALUM. del, whose home is in Batavia. The wife and mother departed this life August 29,1858. Later Mr. Klein contracted a second marriage in Xenia, his wife being Mary K. Rheinhart. To them have been born eight children, all of whom survive and are named respectively : Jacob, John E., Benjamin A., Frances A., Mary Cecelia M., Barbara A. and Eda E. All remain at home with the exception of Mary, who is the wife of A. G. Miltner, of Troy. In connection with his personal sketch, a portrait of Mr. Klein is presented elsewhere in this volume. TOBIAS A. KLINE. A beautiful farm, which although small, is finely improved, is the home of the above-named gentleman, who deals in produce, butter, eggs and poultry, having a place in the market at Dayton which he attends Tuesdays and Saturdays. His estate comprises twenty-one acres of rich land in Clark County, occupying a portion of section 19, Bethel Township. The career of Mr. Kline affords conclusive evidence that a large estate is not necessary to secure independence, but that vim and good judgment can win prosperity from a small acreage. The subject of this sketch is a son of Christian D. Kline, a native of Lancaster County, Pa., who was reared on a farm and learned the trade of a tailor. He carried on a shop in Springville, Susquehanna County, until 1842, when he removed to Ohio. He located in Medway, Clark County, opened a tailor-shop, and carried it on for fifteen years. He then bought eleven acres on section 19, Bethel Township, and began farming, adding about ten acres at a time, until the farm amounted to seventy-five acres of well-improved land. It adjoins the town of Medway, and furnishes a comfortable home for his declining years. He is now seventy-nine years of age, and is living a quiet life, enjoying the fruits of his industry. He belongs to the Mennonite Church. He married Miss Fredericka Allbright, with whom he lived happily until 1871, when she was called from time to eternity. She had borne four children, our subject being the third in order of birth—Amos, the first born, is a farmer in Bethel Township; Anna, Mrs. Hershey, died in 1861, and Christiana when eight years old. Amos served nearly four years during the late war, being a member of the Forty-fourth and Eighth Ohio Cavalry. The mother of our subject was born near Amsterdam, Holland, and coming to America when a young girl with her brothers and sisters, they were sold in Philadelphia to pay for their passage and were thus separated. Three sisters lived there, and a brother and sister in Huron County, Ohio. They had lost track of each other for thirty years, when by the merest chance they learned of each other's location, by hearing the Allbright name from a traveler who knew the brother_ The birth of our subject took place in Springville, Lancaster County, Pa., June 18, 1841, and he was brought to the Buckeye State when eleven months old, the journey being performed by boat down the Ohio River and canal to Dayton. He was reared and educated in Medway, remaining at home on the farm until May, 1864, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty-third Ohio Infantry, being assigned to Company E. After being mustered into the service at Camp Dennison, the command was sent to Virginia, where for some time they skirmished with bushwhackers. On July 4 they had a fight with the rebel general, McCoslin, on the south branch of the Potomac, and on August 2d took part in the battle of Greene Springs against Gen. Johnston. September 10, 1864, Mr. Kline was mustered out and honorably discharged at Camp Dennison, returning thence to his home. On November 15, 1866, in Medway, Mr. Kline was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Harnisn and the young couple took up their abode in Evansville, Ind., where the husband engaged in the manufacture and sale of confectionery. A year later they returned to Medway, and settled where they yet reside, Mr. Kline purchased six acres of land, built upon it and began handling produce for the Dayton market. He has added fifteen acres of tillable land to his first purchase and raises some grain, although his principal crop is 'tobacco, three to six acres being devoted to that crop, on which he has made money. The PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 797 dwelling is an attractive one, and every convenience in the way of useful buildings is to be found ; the barn is 40x60 feet, affording ample accommodation for stock and fodder. During the twenty-one years in which Mr. Kline has attended the Dayton market, he has missed but four Saturdays. Although a shrewd buyer and salesman, he always pays the farmers the best of market prices for their produce, in which he deals extensively. In 1883 he started in the general merchandise business in Medway, under the style of Kline & Schatz, and carried on a successful trade until 1886, when the firm closed out and dissolved partnership. The wife of Mr. Kline was born in Cumberland County, Pa., and is the daughter of Emanuel and Catherine (Tanger) Harnish, the father a farmer there. She is an excellent housewife, a kindly and intelligent woman, and a faithful wife and mother. She has five children—Mollie, Rickie, Walter, Forrest and Webster—all at home. Mr. Kline has been School Director for seven years, and being well informed and the possessor of remarkably good judgment, he has been a most acceptable servant of the people in this capacity. His political allegiance is given to the Republican party, and in his religious belief he favors Universalism. He is one of those genial, straightforward and honest men, who are liked by everyone they meet, and he fills a leading position in the community. JONAS DRURY. The life record of Mr. Drury discloses a career remarkable in many respects, and peculiar qualities of character among the greatest of which were kindness, charity, probity, and a keen observation of what was going on around him in the world. He had been identified with the history of Springfield for many years before his death, baying been a resident of the city since 1856. He was born March 13, 1810, at Temple, Me., and departed this life at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Georgie D. Runyan, in 1890, lacking only nineteen days of numbering his four-score years. With the exception of whitening his hair and rendering his steps less elastic, time had made but few inroads upon a form more than ordinarily vigorous and active. His immediate progenitor was the Rev. John Drury, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a Captain in the War of 1812, and at one time a member of the Maine Legislature. He gave to his son a good education, the latter completing his studies in the Maine Wesleyan Seminary. In 1835 Jonas Drury repaired to Providence, R. I., where he followed the profession of a teacher several years. In 1840 he located in Aroostook County, Me., and as he had especially fitted himself for a civil engineer at college, he was now engaged by the State in surveying its northern portion. For thirteen years following, he was Judge f the Court of Commissioners. He devoted his time in the summer to surveying, and in the winter to lumbering. He led a hard and rugged life among the Maine woods, inhabited by wolves, bears, deer, elk, and other wild animals. In the meantime Mr. Drury was married March 13, 1843, to Miss Lavina McCloud. There were born to them three children: Georgie, Mrs. Dr. Runyan, of Springfield; Josie, now Mrs. Williams, of New York State; Mary, Mrs. E. B. Reifsnider, of Springfield, all of whom are living. The wife and mother died in Cincinnati, October 10, 1885. Mr. Drury had been reared by his honored father to sentiments of patriotism, and at an early period after the outbreak of the Civil War he responded to the call for volunteers, and gave his time and services to his country until the close of the conflict. In June, 1866, under the auspices of the Government, he took charge of a corps of men who engaged in the removal of Union soldiers from Southern battlefields to the national cemetery at Chattanooga, Tenn. He estimated that while thus engaged, and in the two years following, during which he was employed by the Government in examining the validity of claims, he walked over four thousand miles a year. The changes of the seasons possessed for Mr. Drury a' remarkable interest, and for the long period of sixty-five years, he kept a close and minute record of the weather, taking observations six times a day, permitting not even the strife of war to 798 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. interrupt him in a single day's observations. For this purpose he had various apparatus, pluviometers and barometers, making observations from the different forms of clouds, cirrus, cumulus and nimbus. He left chests full of weather records which are of almost inestimable value. When this habit became generally known he was in almost constant receipt of letters from parties who had lawsuits on hand in which the weather was the chief .factor. In this manner several cases of litigation were settled which could scarcely have been done satisfactorily in any other manner. Finally, by special request, he furnished reports to the great dailies, including the Cleveland Leader, and the Cincinnati Commercial Gazette. In order to further aid him in his observations, he invented several curious contrivances, one of which he called a "moon winder," and which he used for ascertaining the location of the lunar sphere, which he always maintained had no little to do with the condition of the atmosphere. In his duties in connection with the removal of the Union soldiers, Mr. Drury, for whom the matter possessed unalloyed interest, met with many interesting incidents. Upon one occasion he was desired to find the bodies of six Union soldiers who had been killed by rebels for capturing an engine, and trying to run away with it. He succeeded in his search, and the heroes now sleep in graves marked by monuments telling the story of their valor. During those days he made the acquaintance of LeCaron, the noted French spy. As a testimony of friendship, LeCaron one day drew Mr. Drury's salary and disappeared. The life of Mr. Drury if written up in detail, would make an interesting volume. He was well known to nearly all the residents of Springfceld, and a familiar figure on Center Street, where, (luring almost every afternoon in the summer, he would be found sprinkling the roadway. He was a man of high courage, and during his migrations to the South frequently traveled under the guise of a minister—a "hard-shell Methodist" as he called himself, and whose doctrine he told the people, was to "mind his own business, and to let other people's business alone." By adopting this policy, he escaped unmolested, although frequently engaged upon most dangerous missions. He was one of the most trusted employes of the Government, and faithfully did he fulfill the duties committed to him. His remains were followed to their last resting place by a large concourse of people among whom his name will be remembered for many years to come. ROBERT N. ELDER. There is probably not within the limits of Green Township, Clark County, a more prominent or popular man than he with whose name we introduce this notice. Nature has endowed him with more than ordinary capacities and the genial disposition which makes for him friends wherever he goes. Liberal and public-spirited, no man is more warmly interested in the material welfare of his township and none have contributed more generously of their time and means with this end in view. He thoroughly beheves in progress and reform and keeps himself posted in regard to current events all over the world, taking satisfaction in every evidence of the .improved condition of mankind, morally, intellectually and financially. Mr. Elder, in the fall of 1888, was elected one of the Commissioners of Clark County for a term of three years and is discharging the duties of his office with credit to himself and satisfaction to all concerned. He has always taken a very active interest in educational affairs and has been a School Director for a period of over twenty years. He served as Road Supervisor several terms and for six consecutive years was Trustee of Green Township. He cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, in Cass County, Ga. While in the army and since becoming a voter, he has steadfastly maintained his allegiance to the Republican party. Probably no man has been more active in its councils in this part f the county, he having been frequently sent to the County, State and Congressional conventions and has at various times been a member of the County Central Committee. The greater part of his life has been spent in farming pursuits. He has maintained a uniform interest in the Grange movement of which he was at one time a member, serving as Master and Secretary and in other posi- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM - 799 tions of trust and responsibility. In his religious views he is a stanch Presbyterian, officiating as Trustee one year and is looked upon as one of the pillars of the church at Clifton. It will thus be seen that the sphere of his usefulness is a broad one and it may safely be said that he reaps unalloyed satisfaction in contemplation of the fact that he has not only endeavored to be a useful member in his community, but therein has fairly succeeded. The subject of this notice was born April 10, 1843, at the old homestead in Green Township and was the ninth in a family of eleven children, the offspring of Robert and Nancy 'F. (Elder) Elder, who were natives of Dauphin County, Pa. The paternal grandfather, Robert Elder, emigrated to Ohio in 1813. He purchased a tract of land on section 10, Green Township, and the patent which he received from the Government at that time is still in the possession of the family, being preserved as one of the old relics with which they would not willingly part. The country at that time was very thinly settled and mostly a forest. Grandfather Elder, with the aid of his sons, Thomas, Robert and John, cleared a farm from the wilderness and there spent the remainder of his days. The parents of our subject were married early in the twenties at the bride's home in Green Township, Clark County, and settled upon the farm entered by the grandfather, where Robert Jr., effected additional improvements and put up the residence which is now owned by his nephew, a son of John Elder. He was a hard-working, industrious man, more than ordinarily intelligent, and became prominent In local affairs, holding various positions of trust and responsibility and serving as Justice of the Peace for the long period of twenty years in succession. He was active in the establishment and maintenance of schools, 'believing that the education of the young was one of the most important adjuncts to the well-being of society. The mother of our subject was the daughter of David Elder, who upon emigrating to this State settled in Butler County, and like most of the men about him followed agricultural pursuits. He likewise built up a home from the wilderness. Robert and Nancy Elder reared seven daughters and six of them became school teachers and followed their profession successfully. Of the eleven children comprising the household circle, nine are still living: Ann is the wife of J. P. Garlough, and they are residents of this township; Elizabeth became the wife of J. E. Stewart and died at her home in Green Township; Martha J. is the wife of J. J. Tuttle and they live in the city of Springfield ; Margery A. married Hugh Cowan and they also live in Springfield; Mary A., Mrs. N. L. Griffith, is a resident of Cass County, Mo.; Susan and Harriet are unmarried and are living in Springfield; David N. is senior member of the firm of Elder & Tuttle and is engaged in the hardware business in Springfield; he is unmarried. Thomas J. married Miss Fanny Harris and they live in Vincennes, Ind. The mother died at the homestead in Green Township in 1876, at the age of seventy-two years, having been born in 1804. Robert Elder was born March 20, 1802, and died March 13, 1886. Mr. Elder, of whom we write, was trained to habits of industry and economy and required to make himself useful about the homestead at an early age. His education was conducted in the district school and he remained under the parental roof until the outbreak of the Civil War. On the 13th of August, 1862, he enlisted in the Union service as a member of Company A, Ninety-fourth Ohio Infantry, and in due time was promoted to Corporal. He went with his regiment which at first was independent, to Lexington, Ky., where they came in conflict with the troops of Kirby Smith. Mr. Elder soon afterward was captured but paroled he following day and sent to Camp Chase where he remained until exchanged. Joining his regiment then at Murfreesboro, Tenn., Mr. Elder thereafter remained in the service until the close of the war. About that time the regiment was made a part of the First Brigade, First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps and Mr. Elder took part in all the battles of the campaign, namely : Hoover's Gap, the siege of Chattanooga, and was at Lookout Mountain and Mission Ridge and in the four month's campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta. Thence he went on the famous march to the sea and had the satisfaction of witnessing the surrender of Gem Joseph Johnston near Raleigh, N. C., in 1865. The war now being practically