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dense growth of timber, and Indians and wild animals were plentiful.
Manuel Dresbach, the father of Mrs. Walters, was born March 9, 1820. He fell a victim to one of those terrible crimes of violence which grew out of the Rebellion. In 1863, when residing in Amanda Township, Fairfield County, drafting of men for the army by the National Government was begun. In his neighborhood men were mustering in order to prevent being forced to do so. Partisan feeling ran high and violence was threatened in many instances. Mr. Dresbach being a strong Unionist, was not one of those who feared to speak his Sentiments, and on several occasions told various individuals they had no right to. resist the orders of the Government. It was feared by many of his friends that he would meet with violence, but they made no mention of their fear to him.
One day, while threshing upon his farm, Mr. Dresbach went to the house in order to make arrangements for the dinner of the men in his employ. On his way, he met a man who had worked for him for several years and with whom he was on the best of terms, so far as he knew. The man held a rifle, and with scarcely a word of warning, raised it to his shoulder and fired. The ball took effect in the breast. of Mr. Dresbach, but he did not fall. The assassin then drew a revolver to finish the bloody deed but was driven away by the threshers, who pursued him with pitchforks, their only weapon at hand. Mr. Dresbach died in a few hours and his murderer narrowly escaped the gallows, but was sent to the penitentiary for life. No cause was even shown for the crime other than that Mr. Dresbach had been distasteful to some of the people in his neighborhood in regard to politics. It transpired in the trial that the man some years. previously had committed a murder in Virginia.
ISAAC D. MILLAR was a native of Pickaway County, born amid its primitive environments May 18, 1822, became one of its most prominent and' successful farmers and stockmen, and in his death its citizenship suffered a severe loss. He was a son of Adam and Rebecca (Decker) Millar, who were natives of Virginia and early settlers of Pickaway County.
When our subject was a boy, his mother died, and he then went to Virginia to live with an aunt, until he attained his majority. He received a fair education in the primitive schools of Ohio and Virginia, and being naturally a keen observer of men and events, as well as of nature, he acquired a .well-earned reputation of being a well-informed man, who could discourse intelligently on all the topics of the day. He was a good worker, was energetic and systematic in carrying out his plans, developing a spirit of enterprise early in his career, and was marvelously prospered in all that he put his hands to. At the time of his death, October 21, 1867, he was one of the wealthiest men of the township, and one of its extensive land-holders, owning nine hundred acres of as fine land as can be found in all Harrison. He was a first-class farmer, as was attested by the appearance of his farm, and he was counted among the best citizens of the community where he dwelt so long, always displaying a commendable public spirit in 'helping forward all schemes for civic improvement, and lending his influence to promote the higher interests of township or county. His political views were identical with the doctrines of the Republican party, which found in him a firm supporter.
Mr. Millar was very fortunate in his selection of a wife in the person of Miss Sarah A. Millar, to whom he was wedded February 22, 1844, as in her he had a true companion, an active helpmate and a wife who devoted herself to his welfare, and tenderly cherishes his memory since he entered the life immortal. Seven children were born of their union, of whom these four are living: William; Mary, wife of the Hon. T. E Cromley, of Pickaway County; Leonard, and Annie, wife of Frank Chryst.
Mrs. Millar, who is a daughter of William and Mary Millar, early pioneers of the county, who are represented elsewhere, was born April 24, 1817, and was reared to maturity in Pickaway County, in one of its pioneer homes, receiving her education in the public schools of Harrison Township. She has witnessed the greater part of the growth
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 451
of this region from its original condition, and is a good type of the worthy daughters of the pioneer stock of the State who have contributed their share to its prosperity. She resides on the home farm in Harrison Township, where she dwelt so many years in contentment and happiness with her husband, helping him in the unbuilding of their home, and she enjoys the respect and regard of the entire community, where she is well known.
JACOB McNEAL. Attention, method and industry are the foundation stones of success in business. To those who labor faithfully success almost invariably comes. The career of Mr. McNeal viewed from a business and social standpoint is worthy of record in a volume, containing biographical reviews of prominent citizens of Madison County. Integrity of word and deed has been the corner-stone of all his business transactions, and during his residence in West Jefferson he has made many warm friends throughout the county and Sate.
Jacob McNeal, Sr., the father of our subject, was a native of Cumberland County, Pa., where .also his mother, who bore the maiden name of Matilda Faught, was born. After their marriage, the parents emigrated from the Keystone State to Ohio, and located in Jefferson Township in 1837, on what is now the site of West Jefferson. Mr. McNeal was a farmer by occupation which he prosecuted together with the grocery business. He was elected and served nearly fifteen years as Justice of the Peace in this township and departed this life in 1866. His wife, who still survives him, has attained the advanced age of eighty-eight years.
Of the parental family of nine children, our subject is the only son and was born in Pennsylvania December 16, 1825, thus being twelve years of age when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Madison County. He grew to manhood in Jefferson Township and assisted his father in operating the farm until learning the trade of a. carriage-maker and blacksmith, which occupation he is engaged in more or less at the present time. Early in the '70s, Mr. McNeal was appointed Notary Public and has also filled the offices of Justice of the Peace, Township Clerk and as a member of the School Board. He has taken a lively interest in local affairs, and in politics casts his vote and influence in favor of the Republican party. He has been of much benefit to the community in which he resides, being at all times a willing and cheerful contributor to worthy causes. He owns a nice residence in the village, which is ably presided over by his excellent wife.
October 17, 1847, Jacob McNeal and Miss Mary, daughter of Nehemiah Gates, were united in marriage. The lady was born in Jefferson Township, in 1827 and by her union with our subject has become the mother of eight children, two of whom died in infancy. Those who lived to mature years were Milo, now deceased; Frank, Alice, John, Amber and Edith. Alice is the wife of J. M. Longman; Amber married J. W. Nichols; Edith is Mrs. Daniel McCarty; John married Miss Mary Rinn and lives in Jefferson. Frank still remains at home. Our subject is a member of the Masonic order and holds membership in Madison Lodge No. 221, A. F. & A. M.
LEWIS SCOTHORN. The son of a pioneer, and a pioneer himself, this venerable octogenarian, familiarly and affectionately known as "Uncle Lewis," is distinguished in the annals of Pickaway County as one of its oldest native-born sons now living within its borders. For more than half a century he has been closely connected with the growth and material interests of Walnut Township, as one of its most skillful carpenters for many years, and also as a successful farmer, who has developed one of its most desirable farms.
Our subject was born in the township mentioned, January 31, 1812, a son of Lewis and Anna (Tollman) Scothorn. His father was a native of Scotland, while it is supposed that his mother was born in Virginia. In 1804, his father came to Ohio with
452 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
his family on horseback with three pack horses, and they were among the first to settle in Walnut Township and Pickaway County, taking up their home in the woods, where the howls of the wolves disturbed their slumbers at night, and the wild game that was plentiful furnished a grateful addition to their rather scanty fare. Indians still lived here, and there were but few traces of the coming civilization. The father of our subject was a hard worker and devoted his energies, to clearing a farm, but he finally succumbed to the hardships of pioneer life and died in 1816. He had been twice married, and but two of his children are known to survive, our subject and his brother John, the latter being a resident of Ft. Scott, Kan.
Uncle Lewis Scothorn was reared to man's estate amid the rude environments of frontier life,. growing with the growth of the county, and always making his home in Walnut Township. He remained on the farm on which he was born until he was twenty-one, and then began to work at the trade of a carpenter, which he pursued for many years, being in great demand on account of his ability in that line. He has built some thirty-two barns, and, innumerable houses and other buildings. He was especially noted for his expertness in handling the broad-axe, and in scoring and hewing logs and timber. He was. also interested in farming, and had a farm which he rented until his sons be came large enough to manage it. He has built three sawmills for himself at different times, and operated them' with water power. In the fall of 1847, he settled on his present farm, upon which he has dwelt in comfort and contentment ever since. He erected a substantial and well-arranged brick house, and has made various other improvements that have greatly increased the value of the farm since it came into his possession. His land is one hundred and twenty acres in extent, and is well tilled and very productive.
Our subject was married December 5, 1833, to Miss Susanna Westenhaver, a sister of Emanuel Westenhaver, of whom a sketch appears in this work. May 22, 1851, the marriage thus happily begun was ended by the death of the beloved wife, who left many sorrowing friends behind, and a family devoted to her memory. But two of the ten children born of that union survive: William H. H. and George W., the latter a resident of Winfield, Kan., and a veteran of the late war, in which he served with honor four years. The following are the children of our subject that died: Peter, Nancy, Eliza, Rebecca, Sophronia, Frances, Calvin, and one that flied in infancy and was buried with its mother.
Our subject's son William resides on the farm with him, assisting him in its management, and he is a wide-awake, capable farmer. He is a sound Republican in politics, and everything that concerns his native county has great interest for him as a loyal and public-spirited citizen. He married Miss Fanny Moyer, and they have four children, whom they have named Calvin M., Cora D., Samuel L. and Fanny F.
"Uncle Lewis" is a typical pioneer, and among the many aged representatives of that class of citizens in Pickaway County, none is more honored or worthy, than he. He received his education in the primitive log cabin school of old times, the one that he attended having at first a clapboard roof, which was later surmounted with shingles, and slabs served as seats, while the desks for writing were boards placed on wooden pins that had been put into holes bored into the, log walls. He early began the struggle of life on his own account, having to depend entirely on his own resources, and he has been very successful in accumulating property that places him among the substantial citizens of his native township. He is an unqualified Republican in his politics, and has always heartily favored public progress.
E. F. DUNN. The dry-goods and notion house par excellence of Circleville, or in fact in the whole Scioto Valley, is the spacious and handsome emporium of E. F. Dunn & Co. It is in, all respects a leading and well-appointed establishment where is always displayed an unusually fine and very complete assortment of everything in the lines indicated, every depart-
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 453
ment being replete with the latest novelties. The prices here quoted, too, are rock-bottom figures, yet no inferior goods are allowed to be placed in stock, patrons being assured of receiving honest value and satisfactory treatment in this deservedly popular store: Mr. Dunn is popular as a business man, and enjoys the unbounded confidence of all having dealings with him. He employs a number of courteous assistants, but keeps close personal supervision over every department.
Our subject was born in Geneva, N. Y., on the 18th of December, 1863, and inherits English blood from the paternal side of the house, his father, W. G. Dunn, being a native of Cambridge, England. When a boy, the latter came to the United States, located in New York City, and there learned the dry-goods business. He subsequently removed to Bellefontaine, Ohio, .was in the dry-goods business there for some time, and then went to Geneva, where he continued in the same business for two years. After this, he returned to New York, settled in Rochester, but not long afterward went to Columbus, Ohio, where he built a brick block on High Street, and was engaged in business there for some time. He was very successful in all his business ventures, was reliable and energetic, and very popular wherever he located. He owns valuable city property, and is a substantial and progressive citizen. A member of the Second Presbyterian Church, he has been Trustee for some time, and is a liberal contributor to all laudable enterprises. His wife, whose maiden name was Susan Cross, was born in Shaftesbury, England, but when a child was brought by her parents to the United States, and settled with them in New York. The father of our ject was twice married, and had two sons by his first union: James, in the dry-goods business in Columbus, and William, who is deceased. His second marriage to Miss Cross resulted in the birth of three children, of whom our subject is the youngest, the other two being Joseph and Florence.
E. F. Dunn was reared in Columbus, Ohio, from age of five years, and attended the High School that city until he graduated in 1880. Feeling need of still further educating himself, he end Marietta College and graduated from the scientific and philosophical course in 1884 with the degree of B. Ph. After this, he was engaged with his father in business until March, 1889, when he came to Circleville, and purchased a small stock here. This he has increased in every way, and is now the proprietor of one of the largest, finest and best selected dry-goods houses in the Scioto Valley. He is a sharp, shrewd business man, and is as popular in social as in business circles. Our subject was married in Circleville on the 2d of February, 1892, to Miss Florence Courtright, a native of Circleville, Ohio, where she received the rudiments of an education, but later finished in Cincinnati. She is a refined and educated lady, and is well liked by all. She is a daughter of Judge S. W. Courtright, one of the county's prominent men. Mr. Dunn is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and is a stanch Republican in his political views.
JOHN PANCAKE, who is known throughout Madison County as a man of more than ordinary business enterprise and exceptional sagacity in money matters, has accumulated wealth by farming and stock-dealing on a large scale, and, still in the prime of life, is actively engaged in business, but now resides in his beautiful home that he has made for himself and his family on North Main Street, London.
Mr. Pancake was born in Stokes Township, this county, November 15, 1851, and is a son of Cephas and Nancy (Cooper) Pancake, who were also natives of this county, and spent their entire lives here. The father was born February 21, 1819, and died October 12, 1874; and the mother was born September 23, 1824, and died July 29, 1855. Both the Pancakes and the Coopers were early pioneer families of this State. Joseph Pancake, the paternal grandfather of our subject, who was a Virginian by birth, came here at an early day, and at first located in Ross County, but not long thereafter, he removed to Madison County and cast in his lot with the frontiersmen who had preceded him, and in later years died on the farm that he had redeemed from the virgin forest. He was born De-
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cember 18, 1789, and died September 15, 1853. He had six children: Isaac, Jesse and William, who were half brothers to James, Toland and Jane (Mrs. Johnson). He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was active in its up-building in this county.
The father of our subject was reared as a farmer and stock dealer in Range Township. He became very prosperous, and was one of the most prominent farmers of that township. He bought and sold stock extensively, and was known far and near as an exceedingly shrewd financier. In politics, he favored the Democratic party, and had clear and sensible views on all topics of general interest. He was the father of six children by his marriage with the mother of our subject, of whom our subject is the only survivor. The others were Margaret, William, Mary J., Thompson and David S. By his union with Miss C. V. Mahoy five other children were born: Joseph, Edwin B., Emma I., Aquilla and Cephas P., of whom Emma and Aquilla are dead.
The subject of this biography was educated in the London schools. At the age of twenty years, he left home and took a trip Westward to prospect for any opening by which he might make a good start in life. He was unable to find anything suitable, and returning home, he remained there until 1875, when he was married on the 9th of December to Miss A. L., daughter of Robert and Ann (Thomas) Rea, of London. Her father is one of the wealthiest men of the county, and is living retired in London.
After his marriage, Mr. Pancake engaged in farming on the old Rea homestead in Oak Run ,Township, where he remained until 1887. But prior to that he had purchased one hundred and fifty acres of the five hundred and forty acres of said farm, and the remainder of it his father-in-law gave to Mrs. Pancake. Besides this valuable property, Mr. Pancake has a good farm of ninety acres in the same township. He has three tenants on his farms, and from their rental derives a good income. He has always been a large cattle dealer, and has' raised a great deal of stock, hiring some six hundred acres of land, besides employing his own for that purpose. He is still interested in dealing in stock and doing a general farming business.
When he left the farm, in 1887, Mr. Pancake came to London and erected one of the best residences within its precincts. It is of a handsome and tasteful style of architecture, is supplied with all the modern conveniences and improvements, is elegant in its appointments, and its attractiveness is enhanced many fold by the unostentatious and gracious hospitality offered to all who cross its threshold by the amiable hostess and the courteous, genial host. Our subject and his wife stand high in social circles, their many fine qualities of head and heart attracting to them many warm friends, and the Episcopal Church finds in them two of its most devoted members, who contribute generously of their means to forward its every good work, Mr. Pancake is an uncompromising Democrat, and is well informed in politics, both local and national. He has held the offices of Treasurer and Trustee of Oak Run Township, and is classed among the men who take a genuine interest in all that concerns their community, and are an honor to the citizenship of their native county.
FATHER M. M. MEARA, Pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Circleville, is a gentleman of broad theological and classical education, who has won the highest esteem both of his parishioners and the entire community. Th church and school under his charge occupy a m beautiful site on the highest point of the historical mounds of archaeological times, which, if pre served, would have been of inestimable value. The Catholic Church was fortunate in securing the land with a clear title, and on the site where the old mound-builders no doubt held their religious services, a congregation now worships in an elegant edifice.
Father Meara was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, October 25, 1850. His father, Stephen Meara. was a native of County Tipperary, Ireland, and emigrated to America when a young man, spending a few years
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in Quebec, and removing thence to Boston. At St. Mary's Church, on Bunker Hill, he was married to Miss Ellen Meagher, who, like himself, was a native of County Tipperary, and came to America with her uncle. Six children were born of the union, our subject being the eldest.
The first recollections of our subject are of the city of Columbus, whither he was brought by his parents when about two years old. He received the rudiments of his education at St. Patrick's School, and in 1866 entered St. Mary's Seminary at Cincinnati, where he studied for four years in the classical course, afterward spending about the same number of years in the study of theology and philosophy. in May, 1874, he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Rosecrans.
Immediately after .he was ordained, Father Meara became Rector of the Cathedral at Columbus, and his labors in its behalf were so arduous and ceaseless that his health failed, and he was compelled to spend one year in travel through the Western States. With strength renewed and health invigorated, he returned to his chosen field of work, and spent two years with the congregation at Columbus. He came from there to Circleville in April, 1882, and at once noticed the magnificent possibilities for the establishment of a school here. With him, to think was to act, and it was not long ere plans were made, funds were raised, and the handsome buildings erected. The school was opened in September, 1885, and has proved Father Meara's foresight and wisdom, for the attendance averages two hundred pupils, and the course of study is practical and thorough.
A modern style of architecture was used in the construction of the building, which contains twelve school rooms, large corridors, broad stairways, and as erected at a cost of about $20,000. It is heated with hot air, well ventilated, and lighted by electricity. Six Sisters of Charity are employed as teachers, and the diplomas awarded the graduates are worthy of any school in the State. In addition to these labors, Father Meara has recently had the church refrescoed and remodeled at a cost of $1,000, and it is now conceded to be one the most beautiful structures in Ohio.
Since his connection with the church at Circleville, Father Meara has introduced many new features into its various departments of work, and possesses the happy faculty of winning the friendship and co-operation of all with whom he comes in contact. He is progressive in his ideas, forcible and vigorous in his language, liberal in his views, and has that deep sympathy with humanity which adds to his influence among his parishioners.
THEODORE W. MILLER, of London, is the largest dealer in dry-goods, carpets, cloaks and fancy goods in this city, and he is also Postmaster at this point, receiving his appointment from President Cleveland, and still continuing to hold the office on account of his manifest fitness for the place, and of his general popularity.
Urbana, in Champaign County, is the native place of our subject, and there he was born January 24, 1844, into the household of Abram and Harriet Minshall, natives respectively of Virgina and Ohio. When he was a small child, he was deprived of a mother's tender care by her untimely death in 1847. She left one child beside himself, his sister Ellen, now Mrs. S. R. Morris, of Fayette County. The father of our subject was a wagon-maker, and for• some years carried on his trade at Midway, where his wife died. He continued to manufacture wagons for some years longer• in that town, and then engaged in hotel-keeping there until 1882. He became well known as mine host, and was a favorite with the traveling public. In the year• mentioned, he came to London, retiring from business, and afterward removed to Toledo, where he is living with his daughter, Mrs. Fisher, and at the age of seventy-four is serenely awaiting life's great end, with the calm faith of a true Christian. His life has been guided by high principles, and he has always espoused every good cause that would in his judgment benefit the community. Thus he is a champion of temperance reform, and belongs to the Prohibition party, in politics. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was a Trustee of the same. His wife also belonged to that church.
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Our subject is of mixed German and English blood, his father descending from the Germans, and his mother of the Anglo-Saxon stock. He was carefully educated in the schools of Midway, this county, and received a: good home training that has had a wholesome influence on his after life. He remained with his father until he was eighteen years old, and then the brave, patriotic youth determined at all hazards to take part in the great war that was then waging between the North and the South, and enlisted in Company K, Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, and during the three long and trying years that followed, he displayed steadfast courage, true fortitude in the most desperate situations, and an unfaltering loyalty to his country that led him to suffer and sacrifice much for its sake, and no member of his regiment proved a more valiant and efficient soldier than he. The first battle in which he, fought was at Richmond, where he was taken prisoner, but he was subsequently exchanged, and he did good service at Vicksburg, when that city was besieged, and was an active participant in numerous other engagements. His last battle was that of Brice's Cross Roads, in Mississippi, where he was again captured by the rebels; who sent him to Andersonville, and he endured all the horrors of that prison for ten months, being barely alive when he at last left it, weighing sixty pounds less than when he entered its doors, and going out therefrom in 1865 a mere wreck of his former vigorous constitution.
Returning home after his bitter experiences of military life, as soon as he was able our subject entered a commercial college at Columbus, that he might better fit himself for a business life. After leaving college, he engaged in the grocery trade at Midway, continuing therein until 1870, when he closed out his stock at a good profit, and, coming to London, took a position as a clerk with John Kinney, with whom he remained until that gentleman's death in 1887. He acted as his book-keeper, and during the last three years carried on the business, as Mr. Kinney was out of health.
Mr. Miller bought his old employer's stock of goods after the latter's decease and is still carrying on the business, which he is constantly enlarging, as he is a man of marked enterprise, understands fully the demands of the trade, is prompt to take advantage of the money market, and, in buying always the best at the most reasonable rates, is enabled to sell at moderate prices, and, as he is invariably courteous and honorable in his dealings, has secured a large custom. His establishment is complete in its appointments, and he employs six clerks, who are attentive to the wants of the customers, and are obliging and well trained. The postoffice is also well conducted under our subject's keen supervision, and three faithful clerks are employed to do the work. Mr. Miller is one of the standard-bearers of the Democratic party in this county, and as a Mason and member of the Grand Army of the Republic, he is prominent in social circles. He is actively identified with whatsoever tends to elevate the moral and religious status of the community, and is one of the foremost members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is Trustee.
Mr. Miller's domestic relations are of the pleasantest, as he has found a congenial companion and devoted wife in Margaret Fisher, to whom he was married in 1868. Their marriage has been hallowed to them by the birth of two children: Fay K., a student at Columbus; and Ercell. Mrs. Miller was a native of this county, and a daughter of Isaac B. and Elizabeth (Jefferson) Fisher. Her father was a large farmer and stockman. Mrs. Miller departed this life February 22, 1892.
JOHN W. O'DAY. The gentleman of whom it is our pleasure and privilege to here give a short biographical sketch is a representative farmer and stock-raiser, located in Pleasant Township, Madison County. He was born on the old home farm in Pleasant Township, June 18, 1860, his parents being Henry and Elizabeth (O'Day) O'Day, also natives of this county.
Our subject grew to manhood on the home farm, attending the district schools during the winter, and began life on his own responsibility when twenty years of age. Being naturally a
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good judge of stock, he was engaged by his brother in buying and selling cattle for a number of years. He was married January 4, 1883, to Miss Harriet Elizabeth Busick, of Range Township, Madison County. She was the daughter. of Elijah W. and Rachel (Reece) Busick, and was born in 1865.
He of whom we write was the fifth in order of birth of a family of six children, of whom four are still living: Elijah lives in London, Ohio, where he is engaged in the stock business; Mary married W. N. Olney, and makes her home in Indianapolis, Ind.; Harley is a soldier in the regular army. The eldest son, Scott, died in infinancy, as also did Celia. To Mr. and Mrs. O'Day have been born two children: Elijah, Jr., who had his birth November 20, 1883, and Edna Maria, November 14, 1887.
In his political relations, our subject is a Democrat as was his father before him. His estate comprises two hundred and two acres, which his industry and good management have placed under a high state of cultivation. As before stated, he is engaged in stock-raising, and reaps quite a handsome return from this branch of agriculture.
JAMES RADER is one of the principal farmers and stockmen of Pickaway County, and has extensive farming and stock interests in Pickaway Township. The, large tract of land owned by him lies in the middle of the famous Pickaway Plains, one of the most historical spots in the State, and it includes the most of the original farm on which stands the noted Logan Elm, the south line of his lands extending to within three hundred yards of this ancient tree, beneath whose branches Logan, Chief of the Mingos, made his renowned speech in 1774, at the time Lord Dunmore, then Royal Governor of Virginia, concluded the treaty of peace, whereby the great Northwest Territory was thrown open to the white man. Here stood Squawtown and Indian Village, where some fighting was done in the past.
22
Mr. Rader is a native of Pike County, this State, and was born December 8, 1839. His father was Adam Rader, a Virginian by birth and a farmer by occupation. When he was twenty-three years old, he came to Ohio to cast in his fortunes with the early settlers of Pike County, and here entered land, which he subsequently improved into a good farm. The country was sparsely settled as to its white population, but Indians were numerous and there was plenty of wild game. He lived to see the county quite well developed and populous, dying in• 1867, and thus passed away one of the most respected pioneers of his community. He was active in religious work as well as in material interests, was a most worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was of a quiet, retiring disposition, kindly, gentle and considerate in his intercourse with others, and always attended strictly to his own affairs, never meddling with anybody's else business. He started out in the woods without any means, but by his unremitting industry and excellent business talent, he acquired a valuable property, and at the time of his death, 'he had six hundred acres of choice land.
Noah Rader, the grandfather of our subject, was also a native of Virginia, and spent his last years in Pike County, this State, with his son, dying at the age of eighty-eight years. He was a strong, powerful man, with a fine physique. The Indians were trouble some while he lived in Virginia, threatening the destruction of his family and his property, and that was the cause of his migration to Ohio. The mother of our subject was Nancy Thorp, a native of Virginia, and a descendant of one of the old families of that State. She was a member in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church, remaining true to the faith until her death, which occurred when she was seventy-four years old. Of her ten children, eight are living, our subject being the third in order of birth.
James Rader, of this biographical review, spent his early life on his father's farm and obtained his education in the typical log schoolhouse of pioneer times, which was furnished with slab benches, and half of one side of the building was removed to make way for the fireplace and mud and stick chimney. He remained at home with his
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parents until he was twenty-one years old, and then began life for himself by working out at the rate of $13 per month. He prudently saved his earnings and at the end of three years entered upon his independent career as a farmer by renting land, in 1862, along the Scioto River.
In 1875, Mr. Rader came to Pickaway County and purchased his present farm on the Pickaway Plains in Pickaway Township, and has six hundred and nineteen acres of as fine farming land as can be found in Ohio, all lying in a body and well equipped with substantial improvements. From its fertile fields he reaps rich harvests of grain, and in its pastures raises fine stock, buying and feeding many cattle also. He has been remarkably successful, financially, and is one of the moneyed men of the township and of the county, to whose wealth he has materially added. He is a whole-souled, large hearted man, strong of purpose, prompt in action, and endowed with great capability. He is one of the foremost Democrats of this section, has been a delegate to county conventions, and stands high in the opinion of his fellow-townsmen, irrespective of party.
Mr. Rader was married, in 1862, to Miss Mary A. Shock, a native of Pike County and a daughter of Andrew and Amanda (Shoemaker) Shock, who were of Virginian birth and were early settlers of Pike County, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Rader lived very happily together until her death, June 12, 1891. She was a woman of rare merit, with a warm and generous heart, and was helpful and friendly to all who came under her influence, looking well to the comfort of her household. Life, with its joys and sorrows, for her is over:
"But we cannot think of her idle,
She must be a home-maker still;
God giveth that work to the Angels
Who are fittest the task to fulfill.
And somewhere, yet, in the hilltops
Of the country that hath no pain,
She will watch in her beautiful doorway
To bid us a welcome again."
To our subject and his wife were born these twelve children: Anna, George B., Nettie, Oscar (deceased), Dennis, Burr, Florence, Don, Scott, Cora, Smiley, and James C. Anna married Lewis Odaffer, of Pickaway Township, and they have one child, Harold; George B. married Miss Annie Anderson and they also live in this township.
On another page are presented portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Rader
JOHN W. DECKER has been a resident of Pickaway County all his life, and his example of industry and earnest and sincere endeavor to succeed in life is well worthy of imitation. He is now successfully following an occupation that has for ages furnished sustenance to the ready worker, and that he is progressive and advanced in his ideas is manifested in everything about his place.
He was born in Madison Township, Pickaway County, March 20, 1849, and his father, Vause Decker, was also a native of this county, born in a log cabin October 12, 1814, and was one of the pioneer settlers. The latter became familiar with hard labor at an early age, for he assisted his father In clearing wild land in this county, and here he received a limited education in the pioneer schools, which were taught in log cabins with slab seats, huge fireplaces, etc. After reaching man's estate, he married Miss Jemima Williams, and the union was blessed by the birth of three children one beside our subject now living, Kate H. Mr. Decker died in 1891, following to the grave his estimable wife, who had passed away a few years before. He was a Democrat in politics and was public-spirited and enterprising. He left a valuable estate of seven hundred and fifteen acres of land, all well improved. He was active in all educational matters and served as School Director for many years. He was a good citizen, an excellent neighbor and a kind and loving husband.
Our subject's paternal grandfather, Luke Decker, was a native of Virginia and when a young came to Pickaway County, which was then wild and unsettled. Indians were numerous and wild animals filled the woods. After getting a start in life, he returned to his native State, married, and, with his bride, returned to the Buckeye State. They
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settled in a little rude log cabin in Madison Township, this county, and entered upon the serious business of trying to make a living. Mr. Decker was one of the first to settle in this section and was a pioneer in every sense of that term.
John W. Decker was reared to manhood in his native county, and, like his father and grandfather before him, has been prominently identified with the interests of this county. In addition to a good practical education obtained in the district schools of Madison Township, for two years he attended the well-known Baptist Institution at Grandville, Ohio. He has improved all his advantages and is a man well posted on all subjects of interest. On the 1st of October, 1873, he was married to Miss Kate M. Millar, daughter of Michael and Margaret Millar, early settlers of Madison Township, Pickaway County, Ohio. Both parents are now deceased. Mrs. Decker has one brother and three sisters in Madison Township, viz: Melissa, wife of Nathan Perrell; George R.; Alice, wife of Robert Perrell, and Mattie.
The original of this notice is the owner of three hundred and forty-five acres of land and is one of the foremost farmers in his section. In politics, he is a Democrat and is a stanch advocate of the principles of that party. In all worthy enterprises, he takes a decided interest and is well known throughout the section as a public-spirited and charitable citizen. He is a member of the Township Board and has held other positions of trust in Madison Township. His marriage was blessed by the birth of four children: Clifford H., Annie M., Georgie and Millar M., all bright and capable.
JOASH CROMLEY, a native of Pickaway County, April 17, 1830, the date of his birth, is of the old pioneer stock, and was born and reared on the farm in Walnut Township which is still his home, said farm being one of the earliest to be reclaimed from the primeval wilds of this region. Our subject is a son of Jonas and Amelia (Hoffines) Cromley, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Maryland. His ancestors on both sides of the house were Germans, and his grandfather Hotlines was a soldier in the War of 1812, drawing a pension in after years for his services therein. His paternal grandfather, Paul Cromley, emigrated from Pennsylvania with his family to Ohio in 1815, and settled on the farm in Pickaway County now owned by our subject, his son Jonas being a boy at that time, he having been born in 1803. The family made their home in a log cabin in the woods, and the elder Mr. Cromley labored hard to clear and develop this farm, upon which he died at a ripe age, leaving behind him a goodly record as a pioneer who had struggled bravely against the adverse forces of nature, and was helpful in the unbuilding of the county.
Jonas Cromley grew to man's estate on the old homestead amid scenes of pioneer life and received a fair education in the primitive schools of the day. He succeeded to his father's farm, and did much pioneer labor in its improvement. He was successful financially, accumulating a comfortable property, and he was a conspicuous figure in public, political, social and religious life of the community. For years, he served as Trustee and Treasurer of the township, and he was always in favor of whatever would advance the township or county. He was a Democrat, ever true to his political convictions, and in his religious affiliations he was a Lutheran. He and his good wife lived happily together many years, and were blessed with four children, namely: George, a resident of Columbus; Joash; Ann M. and David.
He of whom this biography is principally written was reared on the old farm that had been his birthplace and has always been his home. His education was conducted in a log cabin, that was rudely furnished with slab benches, and the only desks were boards placed on wooden pins against the walls of the room, being intended only for the scholars to write upon. He early became familiar with the details of farming, and since the old homestead came into his possession he has kept it up to a high standard of cultivation and improvement. He has here a quarter of a section of. land that is naturally rich and productive, and from the harvests that he reaps from its well-tilled fields
464 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
and the stock that he raises in its excellent pastures, he derives a good annual income. Mr. Cromley is one of the Directors of the Rebel Hill Cemetery, which is located in Walnut Township, and of which he was one of the incorporators. He has the welfare of his native county at heart, and in his successful career as a farmer has done much to promote its material progress. In politics, he stands with the Democrats. He has the confidence of the business community and is, well known in his neighborhood as an earnest, candid, openhearted man.
Our subject took unto himself a wife December 18, 1859, in the person of Miss Amanda Ashbrook, and to them have been born two sons, Charles and Joseph. Mrs. Cromley is also a native of Pick-away County, born in 1835 in the pioneer home of Absalom and Phoebe (Dunnuck) Ashbrook, who were early settlers of Walnut Township.
EDWARD W. SCOTT. In tracing the genealogy of the Scott family in America, we find the first representative was Rev. James Scott, M. A., who was a native of Depple Parish, Elgin, Scotland. His father, Rev. John Scott, M. A., was also a native of Scotland and in that country passed all his life. This family was one of the most prominent ones of Scotland and its members were men of education and learning. The coat of arms used in the family and by our subject's grandfather, Hon. Gustavus Scott, was a dove with an olive branch in its beak with the motto: "Gaudio Magna Nucio." Rev. James Scott, M. A., left his native land and settled in Virginia before 1739, and his brother, Rev. Alexander Scott, M. A., came to the Old Dominion at the same time. The former was rector of Depple, Va., until he went to Prince William County, Va., and there he became Rector also. He was a college-bred man, and owned the large and beautiful estate of "Westwood."
Hon. Gustavus Scott was born on the beautiful estate of Westwood, Prince William County, Va., in 1753, and studied law at Aberdeen, Scotland, after which he graduated in law at Middle College, London. During the Revolutionary War, h removed to Dorchester County, Va., and served as Representative of the State. Later, he removed to Washington City and was one of the Commissioners for the erection of public buildings in that city. He was an intimate friend of Gen. George Washington, and advanced from his own pocket considerable sums of money for the troops during the Revolutionary War, and he, with two other men, went security for the United States, to the amount of $120,000. He was a true patriot and won a national reputation. His son, John C. Scott, was a native Virginian, born in 1782, and was a large landowner and planter there. In 1820, he came to Ohio, located in Ross County, near Chillicothe, and became the owner of immense tracts of land. He died at the age of fifty-eight years. His son, Charles L. Scott, the father of our subject, was also a native of the Old Dominion, born on the 20th of September, 1812. He was a law graduate, practiced his profession at Chillicothe, Ohio, and was also the owner of considerable land near Yellow Bud. In 1848, he removed to Philadelphia and engaged in the wholesale merchandising business. He died there on the 24th of January, 1861. In politics, he was a Whig, and in religion an Episcopalian. He married Miss Elizabeth E. Slesman, a native of Philadelphia, born on the 7th of January, 1815, and the daughter of George and Elizabeth Slesman, both natives of Philadelphia, where the father was engaged in wholesale merchandising. To Mr. and Mrs. Scott were born nine children, all of whom grew to mature years and seven of whom grew to mature years and seven of whom are living. exception of our subject, all are residents of the "City of Brotherly Love." Two brothers, John C. and Arthur W., were. in the Civil War, the former enlisting in a Pennsylvania regiment in 1864. The latter was also in a Pennsylvania regiment.
Edward W. Scott, the seventh child in order of birth of the above-mentioned family, was born in Philadelphia, Pa., on the 25th of July, 1849, and was educated in the private and select schools of that city. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-one years of age and then began clerking. The fertile soil of Ohio tempted him here in 1872, and he first located in Circleville,
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where he engaged in the grain business with Heffner & Co. He followed this business in this city for five years, after which the firm dissolved partnership and commenced again under the firm title of Heffner, Scott & Co., with headquarters in Columbus. This firm lasted for three years, after which the firm of Seeds & Scott was formed in the same place. This firm owns the elevator on Fourth and Norton Streets, on the Pan Handle road, and is engaged in buying and shipping grain to the East.
In 1889, Mr. Scott removed back to Circleville on account of poor health and confined his attention principally to agricultural pursuits. He owns a fine farm of three hundred and eighty-five acres in Jackson and Muhlenburg Townships; on Darby Creek, all well improved with good buildings, fences, etc., and is engaged in raising full-blooded Percheron draft colts.
Mr. Scott was married on the 9th of September, 1875, to Miss Cynthia Renick, daughter of John Renick, a native of Virginia, who left a large estate of two thousand acres at his death. One child blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Scott: Minnie Renick, whose birth occurred on the 17th, of May, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Scott are members of the Presbyterian Church and he is Trustee and Treasurer in the same. In politics, he is a through and through Republican.
WILLIAM E. IRELAND, M. D. The medical profession has among its members many
noble men, whose lives are filled with acts of goodness and animated with a desire to relieve the sufferings of mankind. Among those who occupy an honored place in the esteem of the citizens of Fayette County is the subject of this sketch, senior member of the firm of Ireland & Ireland, who has associated with him his older brother, S. A., in the practice of medicine and surgery at Washington C. H.
Dr. Ireland was born in Bloomington, Ill., April 18, 1852, at the time when that now prosperous enterprising city was only a small village, sur rounded by evidences of pioneer life and containing few prophetic indications of its present commercial importance. His parents, George and Sarah (Hopkins) Ireland, were natives of Ross County, Ohio, and were pioneer members of the farming community of McLean County, Ill. When our subject was only two and one-half years old, he was brought by his parents to Ohio, and remained in the southeastern part of Fayette County until .1865, when the family removed to Ross County.
In the schools of Fayette and Ross Counties, our subject acquired the fundamental principles of knowledge, and afterward was a student in the. South Salem Academy, which was then the most important and flourishing educational centre in that part of the State. His schooling completed, he followed the profession of a teacher for seven years, and during the same time carried on medical studies under the preceptorship of Dr. A. Ogan, of Madison County. He took a course of lectures at Starling Medical College of Columbus and was a graduate in the Class of '82.
At once after completing his medical studies, Dr. Ireland located at Leesburgh, Highland County, where he remained for five years, his attention being closely devoted to the ever-increasing demands of his profession. In 1887, he came to Washington C. H., having decided that it would be best to seek a larger field for practice and one which demanded less country riding. Almost from the start, his practice was good and has constantly increased until now it requires his unceasing attention, to the exclusion of all public affairs or social recreations. In October, 1889, he formed a partnership with his brother S. A., who had ,previously been engaged in practice at Leesburgh.
The Doctor keeps abreast of the latest investigations in the medical world, and is well known to the fraternity, being a member of the State Medical Society, and both the Highland and Fayette County Medical Societies. He is identified with Fayette Lodge, Fayette Chapter and Commandery, F. & A. M. His attractive residence on East Court Street is presided over by his hospitable and cultured wife, whose name in maidenhood was Florence I. Carr, and who became his wife March 8,
466 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
1882. Their home is brightened by the presence of three children: Augusta Eugenia, Horace Carr and Nellie Gwenn, while one child has been taken from them by death. In his religious belief, the Doctor is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and belongs to its Board of Directors, while in charitable and. philanthropic enterprises his sympathy and active co-operation are always extended.
SAMUEL HORNBECK, who follows general farming and stock-raising, was born on the farm which is still his home in Paint Township, Fayette County, January 28, 1839. His father, Isaac Hornbeck, was born in South Solon, Ohio, in October, 1813, but was reared in Madison County, where he resided until the last three years of his life, which were spent in Ross County. His death there occurred January 27, 1865. He married Anna Peck, who was born May 15, 1818, in Pickaway County, Ohio, and unto them were born seven children: Miles who was born in 1837, and died at the age of twenty-seven years; Samuel of this sketch; Hagar E., who is living in Pleasant Township; Henry, who died at the age of five years; Mary, who is living in Pleasant Township; John, of Madison Mills, Fayette County, who with his wife and four children resides on a farm of one hundred and forty-five acres; and George, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work.
The father of this family was a self-made 'man. He lived on the farm which is now the home of our subject until 1863, when he removed to Ross County. In 1854, he purchased two hundred and twenty-two acres of land and subsequently bought one hundred and fifty acres in Madison Township, Fayette County, where John Hornbeck now resides. In politics, he was a Democrat and a highly respected citizen.
Mr. Hornbeck of this sketch remained at home until several years after his father's death. He acquired a common-school education, and in 1875 took possession of his present home, having purchased two hundred and seventy acres of fine farming land. .He also operates a one hundred and eighty-five acre tract which belongs to his mother. He is an enterprising and successful farmer and a glance at his place indicates the thrift and industry of the owner.
Mr. Hornbeck was married September 16, 1879, to Alice Porter, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, November 29, 1849, and is a daughter of Joshua and Rachel (Henry) Porter. She is the fourth in a family of six children, all of whom are still living: Isabel is the wife of Alex Taylor, of Ross County, and has one child; ,John H. is married and resides in Ross County; Mary J. makes her home in the same county; William resides with his wife and one child in Ross County; and Rosa E. is also there living. The father of this family, who was born in 1802, died in June, 1880, at the age of seventy-eight. His wife was born in Brooke County, Va., in February, 1809, and died August 5, 1887. They were both buried in Concord Cemetery.
Three children grace the union of Mr. and Mrs. Hornbeck: Nellie, born November 28, 1880; Ollie, December 28, 1881; and Herbert, February 8, 1890. Our subject and his wife rank high in social circles and are widely known throughout this community. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the Democratic party and served as Land Appraiser in 1890.
SAMUEL FRALICK. Among the well known and influential farmers of Stokes Township, Madison County, is Mr. Fralick,, who is a successful farmer and stock-raiser, using the best methods in fertilizing the soil and improving the land. He has been successful in his chosen calling and has accumulated a fine property, enjoying the esteem and respect of all who know him. He was born in Lancaster County, Pa., June 2, 1837, and is the son of Joseph and Susannah (Easton) Fralick, also natives of the Keystone State.
The parents of our subject moved to Clarke County, this State, when Samuel was a lad of six
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years. He there grew to manhood on the farm and received a fair education in the primitive schools of the district. When sixteen years of age he began life on his own account, hiring out to different parties to drive cattle over the mountains to the Eastern markets. In 1855 and 1856, he spent a twelvemonth in Logan County, Ill., working on a farm, at the end of which time he returned to Madison County, this State, and was employed by the month for another year; during that time he saved considerable money, which, together with the snug little sum which h had accumulated in handling stock, enabled him to purchase one hundred and ten acres of land which is near his present abiding-place. His estate now includes three hundred and seventy acres of land, and in addition to raising cereals he feeds and ships hogs in great numbers. He also breeds a good grade of horses and sheep, and ranks among the progressive and enterprising stock-raisers of Madison County. Mr. Fralick has recently disposed of his interest in the grain elevator at South Solon, which he owned in partnership with C. T. Bowers. He cast his first Presidential vote for a Democratic candidate in 1864, but since that time has been identified with the Republican party. He has served in many positions of trust in this community, being Township Trustee for several years, a School Director and was elected County Commissioner in the fall of 1884, serving one term and three years, during which time he was kept very busy, as many of the bridges of his district had been washed away by the heavy rains.
Mr. Fralick is the younger in a family of two children, his sister Mary, who was born in 1835, being Mrs. H. W. Bowers. His father was born January 13,1811, and died May 20, 1874, while his mother, who was born January 3, 1816, departed this life September 6, 1887. The lady to whom our subject was married December 23, 1866, was Miss Mary E. Crow, a native of Jefferson Township, Fayette County. She was born August 12, 1849, and was a daughter of Ezekiel H. and Rosanna (Creamer) Crow. She was given a good education and when seventeen years of age began school and after being thus engaged fora time, took a course of study at the schools of Lebanon. Her father was married three times, she being the eldest but one in a family of four children born of his second union. Her brother, Thomas, resides in Fayette County; Susan, who married Melvin L. Anderson, makes her home in Guthrie County, Iowa, and Lucy, who married Lemuel W. Vance, departed this life in August, 1890.
To Mr. and Mrs. Fralick have been born two children, viz: Mary B., who was born March 3, 1889, and Susan G., April 24, 1891. Mrs. Fralick's mother died when she was about four years of age, and when' fourteen years old her father was killed in a collision on a railroad between Covington and Lexington, Ky. It was during the period of the Civil War when he was returning from a visit to his son who was a Union soldier.
JEROME SMITH proprietor of the Pickaway, Pickaway Township, this county, on the 23d of December, 1853, and is a son of Henry Smith, who was originally from Fairfield County, this State. The grandfather, John Smith, was born in Pennsylvania, but at an early date moved to Ohio and settled in Amanda Township, Fairfield County, where he improved a large farm. He was twice married, and was a man well respected by all acquainted with him. He was of German descent. The father of our subject is a blacksmith by trade, and after locating on a farm in Walnut Township, he put up a shop and machine works which he operates at the present time, and although now sixty-five years of age, he is a fine machinist. His wife, the mother of our subject, Rebecca (Crites) Smith, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Samuel Crites, who was a native of Pennsylvania. He was a farmer by occupation and followed that business all his life. The mother of our subject is deceased.
Of the ten children born to his parents, Jerome is sixth in order of birth. He received a common education in the district schools and from the time he was a small boy he was in the blacksmith shop
468 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
and thus picked up the trade. When fourteen years of age, he made a hand at the anvil, but previous to that, when only ten years of age, he shod horses. At the age of twenty-one, or in 1877, he went to Lancaster and was employed in a carriage shop there for three years. Returning to Walnut Township, he was with his father for over five years and was his partner for a year. Seeing a better opportunity to succeed in his trade, he came to Circleville and started a shop near the Cleveland, Marietta & Ohio depot. In 1890, he bought this business from Ed Smith, the old Tyler Mill, and since then has conducted it alone. He has added to it in many ways, and is one of the most successful and thorough-going business men of the place. He has a large brick planing mill and machine shop, a large brick storeroom operated by a sixty-horse power engine, and manufactures doors, sashes, frames, mouldings, etc., and also runs the general machine works, called the Pickaway Machine Works, which he purchased in 1890 and combined with the other.
Our subject was an organizer of the Circleville Lumber Company, and was President until December 1, 1891, when he sold out his interest and turned -his attention exclusively to the machine works. He is doing a large amount of business, usually employs from twelve to fifteen men, and system and order prevail throughout. He has been engaged in other enterprises that brought him in good returns, and is the owner of four lots with buildings on East Main Street, corner of Mingo. He is full of push and energy and stands in the front rank of that worth and energy which have made Circleville so great a manufacturing centre.
Mr. Smith was first married in Walnut Township, Pickaway County, Ohio, to Miss Ida J. Noggle, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio. She passed away two years later. His second marriage occurred in Lancaster, to Miss Caroline Betz, a native of Lancaster, Fairfield County, Ohio, and the daughter of Fred Betz, a successful wagon manufacturer there for many years but now deceased. Five children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and are named as follows: Cora E., Harry A., Frank P., Minnie, Mildred and Frederick. Mr. Smith was School Director in Walnut Township, and has held other local positions. He is a self-made man in every respect and thoroughly understands his business. Socially, he is a Knight Templar. In politics, he is a strong advocate of the principles of the Republican party and his father was a strong Union man. He has been a delegate to county and State conventions and is one of the representative men of the county.
DANIEL W. HOWARD, who is engaged in the undertaking and furniture business at West Jefferson, has been very successful in the affairs of life and is in good circumstances. His means have not been accumulated without hard work and the exercise of prudence and forethought, and those who know him feel that he has won no more than he deserves. His place of business is well stocked with a full assortment of goods to be found in that line of trade, in the disposal of which he is thoroughly honest and upright.
Horton Howard, the father of our subject, was born in Belmont County, this State, June 22, 1617, and when nineteen years of age removed to Columbus, where he. attended school and later assisted his father, who was a druggist, in his store. On the death of the latter, he assumed the business, which he operated very successfully for several years. Litter, he purchased a farm near Alton, Franklin County, and there made his home until his decease, January 20, 1878. The father of our subject was married in Columbus, February 10, 1841, to Miss Mary A. Marple, who was born 'near Philadelphia, Pa., December 6, 1823.
The eleven children included in the parental family bore the respective names of Albert, Joseph B., Isaac N., Charles C., Frank W., Mary E., Theo, Daniel W., Horton J., Eliza J. and Edwin. The mother of these children removed from the farm to West Jefferson in October, 1890. Daniel W. of this sketch was born near Alton, Franklin County, this State, July 22, 1859. He was reared on his father's farm, received a common-school education and continued to remain at
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home until August, 1890, when he came to West Jefferson and established himself in the undertaking and furniture business, in company with his brother Theo, the firm being known as Howard Bros.
In social affairs, Mr. Howard is a member of West Jefferson Lodge No. 412, I. O. O. F. and being a peaceable and law-abiding citizen, pursues the even tenor of his way with an intelligent conception of the work that lies before him and the duty he owes to his fellow men. Like his parents, he is a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and is regarded by his acquaintances as one of the rising young business men of West Jefferson.
WILLIAM F. BROWN. The gentleman whose portrait is shown on the opposite page comes of one of the early pioneer families of Pickaway County, that have been prominently identified with its growth and prosperity for many years. He has practically witnessed the greater part of its development from its original wildness, besides taking a hand in it as an industrious and well-to-do farmer of Jackson Township. He was born in Deer Creek Township, March 12, 1831, and is a son of Trustin P. Brown, who was widely known in his day as one of the most prominent and successful farmers and stock men of the county. The latter was born in Delaware in 1810 and was a son of Peter Brown, who was also a native of that State.
The grandfather of our subject came to this State in 1816, and settled first in Ross County, near the Pickaway County line. Some years later, he bought land in Deer Creek Township, this county, comprising one hundred acres, which he developed into a good farm. At that time, the surrounding country was a perfect wilderness, with but very few settlements here and there in the woods and deer and other game were very plentiful the was the nearest market, and the people content themselves with what they could e for the most part, many of the necessaries of life being then unprocurable luxuries. Peter Brown was past fifty years of age when he died in the home that he had built up by hard toil in Deer Creek Township.
The father of our subject was but a boy of five or six years when the family emigrated to Ohio, crossing the mountains and intervening country in a wagon. He was brought up in the woods, and what education he received was obtained in the pioneer schools of early times. He was naturally very capable, having an excellent head for business, was an untiring worker and became one of the wealthy men of the county. He was a very extensive farmer, owning nearly a thousand acres of land, and was a great stockman, raising large numbers of cattle and other stock. He had a good wife to assist him in the accumulation of his property. Her maiden name was Tabitha W. Cannon, and she was a native of Maryland. She died at the age of sixty-five, leaving behind her a worthy record as a true Christian woman of the Methodist faith and an active worker of the church to which she belonged. She was the mother of nine children, namely: Elizabeth, William F., Sarah S., Wesley, Nancy, Tabitha W., Peter W., Maria and Trustin P. The father was a true Democrat in politics. His name will always be associated with the rise and progress of Pickaway County, and his memory cherished as a good citizen.
The subject of this life review was educated in a primitive log schoolhouse, which was heated by a large open fireplace, slab benches with pin legs were the seats, a board placed on pins against the wall was used as a writing-desk, and the building was lighted by the removal of a log from the wall. Our subject was early initiated into all kinds of farm work, and at the age of twenty-two began farming for himself, with a good experience of the ins and outs of the calling. He has one hundred and forty acres of fine land in Jackson Township, which is all improved, and is one of the best-managed farms in the vicinity. It is well stocked with cattle of good grades, and its well-tilled fields yield abundant harvests of grain and other produce. Its buildings are roomy, well arranged and orderly, and the thrifty air of the place betokens the prosperity of the owner. Our subject employs
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modern methods and modern machinery in carrying on his operations, but he can well remember the crude manner in which the farmers were obliged to till the soil and reap the harvests when he was a boy, wheat being cut with a sickle and later with a cradle, until the invention of the self-binder. The old-fashioned scythe was used in mowing then, and men only obtained fifty cents a day for swinging it from early morn until set of sun, or handling the clumsy rake of olden times.
It has been the good fortune of our subject to have the active co-operation of a capable wife in his work, his marriage with Miss Massie A. Owens, a descendant of one of the early families of Pick-away County, taking place June 8, 1858. They have had eight children, as follows: Trustin; Samuel (deceased); Sarah, Mrs. Carpenter; William F., Eliza, Aaron S., Fred and Edward (twins), the latter deceased.
After marriage, our subject continued to live in his native township for three years, but has resided in Jackson Township since 1861. He has made himself a valuable citizen in the social, religious and public circles of the community, and is looked up to with respect by all who know him. In politics, he is a decided Democrat. He has been Trustee of Jackson Township eleven years, was Assessor two terms and has been School Director much of the time since he took up his residence here. He and his wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He has always been religiously inclined, even in his boyhood, when he had to walk over rough ways three miles to Sunday-school.
JOSEPH NOTHSTINE enjoys the distinction of being not only one of the pioneers of Pickaway County, Ohio, but one of its highly esteemed and honored citizens. He was born in Madison Township, of this county, April 14, 1823, and his parents, John and Gertrude Nothstine, were natives of the Keystone State, and both of German descent.
John Nothstine was married in his native State, and remained there until about 1810, when he became possessed of a great desire to settle in Ohio, and with his wife and family made the journey to that State. They settled in the woods of Madison Township, Pickaway County, in a log cabin, and immediately began making improvements and clearing the farm. They were among the very first settlers, and here their large family of children were born, only our subject now surviving. Mr. and Mrs. Nothstine passed the remainder of their days on this farm, and were universally respected.
The early life of our subject was passed among pioneer surroundings, and when but a small boy he became inured to hard labor. He has done his share toward developing the resources of this wonderful State, and in every way has aided in its advancement and progress. his advantages for receiving an education were limited to the pioneer schools, taught in a log cabin with a huge fireplace, slab seats, and greased paper for window lights. Schoolhouses were not on every hill-top, as they are at the present time, and the young pioneers were obliged to go many miles to get their little learning. Mr. Nothstine is mainly self-educated, and has an excellent knowledge of the German language.
On the 3d of October, 1843, our subject was married to Miss Caroline Rinesmith, who was born in Pennsylvania, on the 23d of April, 1818, and whose parents, Daniel and Barbara Rinesmith, were natives of the Keystone State. They were also of German descent, and when Mrs. Nothstine was but eight years of age, they left their native state to come to the fertile lands of Ohio. They settled in the woods of Madison Township, Pickaway County, and she who is the companion of the joys and sorrows of Our subject knows by actual experience in youth many of the hardships as well as the adventures of pioneer life. Of the six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Rinesmith, only one beside Mrs. Nothstine is now living, Jesse, who is a resident of Illinois.
The six children who were granted to our subject's marriage are all deceased except one daughter, Mary A., who married Abram Strorts and became the mother of ten children, as follows: Joseph, Charles, James, Mary, Caroline, Annie, Bertie
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John, Samuel and Ella. Eliza (deceased), a daughter of our subject, was the mother of nine children but only five survive: Sarah, Joseph, William, Stella and Annie. Those deceased were Emma, Samuel, Grade and an infant. Mr. Nothstine owns two hundred and sixty-five acres of good, productive land, with excellent improvements, and has one of the most attractive agricultural spots in his section. It is conspicuous for the management that, while making it neat and attractive, still shows prudence and economy. Mr. Nothstine is one of the representative pioneers of Madison Township, of this county, and has filled a number of local positions. He is active in all worthy movements and takes a deep interest in educational matters. He and wife are members of the Lutheran church and he has served as Deacon in the same.
Now, after the turmoil and worry of pioneer life, Mr. Nothstine and his estimable wife, who has been his co-worker and loving partner for many years, can sit down and enjoy the fruits of their industry and perseverance. They are well known in Madison Township and are highly esteemed by all.
GEORGE A. IRWIN, manufacturer of flour, feed, etc., at the Exchange Mills, at the corner of Mill and Clinton Streets, and is one of the live business men of Circleville. He was born in this city on the 14th of June, 1839, but his father, John E. Irwin, and his grandfather, Abner Irwin, were natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish descent. The grandfather followed the occupation of a farmer in his native State and there passed his entire life. He was an officer in the War of 1812.
John E. Irwin, the father of our subject, was born in Berks County and followed the trade of moulder there. He was married in Pennsylvania to Catherine Tobias, who was born near Hamburgh, Penn., and was a daughter of Benjamin Tobias. Mr. Tobias was of German descent and a blacksmith by trade. He came to Circleville, Ohio, at an early date, followed blacksmithing for a short time, and then went on a farm, but later returned to 'Circleville, where he died when seventy-five years of age. After his marriage, the father of our subject remained in his native State until about 1836, when he was sent for by a foundryman of this place. The foundry not being completed when he reached this city, Mr. Irwin worked on the old canal for a short time and then became foreman in the foundry, continuing in that capacity for thirty years. After this, he embarked in business for himself for one year, after which he continued in the old Sciota Machine Works until he died in May, 1880. He was a stockholder for some time and one of the county's honest, industrious citizens. In politics, he was a Democrat until the war and was then a Douglas man. In religion, he was identified with the Methodist Church. His widow now resides in. Pekin, Tazewell County, Ill.
Fourteen children were born to this esteemed couple, but only five are now living. One son, C. Edward, enlisted in the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry in 1862 and served until the close of the war. He was promoted to be Sergeant, was wounded and captured and was confined in Libby Prison for nine months. He died in 1887. Our subject was reared in Circleville and supplemented a common-school education by attending. the Evert's Graded School, where he remained until one year before graduating. At the age of seventeen or eighteen, he was apprenticed to learn the machinist's trade under Bright, Bears & West in the old Sciota Works. He served an apprenticeship of seven years, became a practical machinist, and continued with them off and on as engineer, etc., until the above-mentioned years had expired, when he branched out for himself. Miss Sue Young, who became his wife in 1860, was born in Circleville and is a daughter of Jacob Young, who was a native of Union County, Penn. Mr. Young was an early settler in Pickaway County, Ohio, and followed the occupation of a miller and farmer.
In the fall of 1860, our subject located on a farm in Walnut Township, Pickaway County, and followed farming until May, 1864, when he volunteered in the One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio Infantry, Company A, as private. He was sent with his regiment to Martinsburgh, Va., to guard the trains. Later, he was sent on guard duty
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to Washington, guarded Grant's army, was through the battle of the Wilderness and continued in service until cessation of hostilities. He was mustered out at Camp Dennison in September, 1864. After the war, he was on the farm for a few years, was also engaged as a machinist for a year or two and was City Engineer for two years. He then became proprietor of the mill and has been actively engaged in the manufacture of flour and feed up to the present. His mill is three stories in height, is a fine brick building, 40x60 feet, has a capacity of forty barrels and is run by a forty-horse power.
Mr. Irwin has a pleasant home at the corner of Union and Washington Streets, and he and wife are classed among the best citizens. They are the parents of five sons, four living: Samuel J., a graduate of the High Schools, studied medicine under Dr. Row and graduated at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati. He is now practicing at Tarlton, this county. Charles A. is in Cincinnati with the Thompson-Houston Electric Supply Company; George G. is a printer in Pekin, Ill.; and Howard is at home. Mr. Irwin is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Encampment, being a charter member and Adjutant of Groce Post No. 156, of Circleville, and was a member of the Knights of Pythias. In religious belief, he is a Methodist, and in politics he is a Republican in national affairs. His first Presidential vote was for Abraham Lincoln. He is a member of the Monumental Association. The eldest son, Edward E., was killed by the accidental discharge of a revolver in 1892.
GEORGE W. GARDNER.,M. D. This valued resident of Plain City was born in Jefferson
Township, Madison County, this State, February 22, 1849, and is a son of Nathaniel Gardner, a native of Franklin County, Ohio, who devoted himself through life to the business of farming and stock-raising: His death occurred in 1859, when our subject was a lad ten years of age. James Gardner, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of Virginia, who came to Ohio at a very early day and made his home in Franklin County. He located on Darby Creek, and remained there until his death, which occurred at the age of seventy-seven. This ancestor was of English descent, but his immediate progenitors had been for some time residents of the Old Dominion.
Mahala Walker was the maiden name of the mother of Dr. Gardner, and she also was a native of Virginia, but came to Ohio with her parents when only four years of age and her family made their home in Franklin County, on Darby Creek, where she still resides at the advanced age of seventy-eight. Her father, James Walker, was a native of the Old Dominion, and lived to the very venerable age of ninety-four years. Her mother was of German descent.
The parents of our subject were united in marriage on Darby Creek, Franklin County, and made their early married home on the spot where the mother still resides. This continued to be their home throughout their entire union, with the exception of two years, when they lived in Madison County. They became the parents of six children, five sons and one daughter, all of whom grew to years of maturity. One only of the number has passed from earth's activities. Our subject is the fifth child and fourth son. His early schooling was taken in his native place, and later he attended the Central College of Franklin County, and afterwards attended college at Westerville, Ohio, and thence went to the Miami Medical College, from which he graduated in 1873.
The young Doctor established his first medical practice at Harrisburg, Franklin County, Ohio, and upon leaving that place he located in Plain City, which has since been his home, having come here in 1883. He was married in June, 1884, at Harrisburgh, to Miss Mary Chenoweth, a native of Franklin County. One son has blessed this union, to whom has been given the name of William D.
The political views of Dr. Gardner have led him to affiliate with the Republican party, and he has ever taken an active interest in public matters, although he cannot be called a politician. His fellow-citizens have made him a member of the
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School Board, feeling that in his intelligence and integrity they can confide the interests of their children. He is connected with Urania Lodge No. 311,A. F. & A. M., and with Pleasant Valley Lodge No. 193, I. O. O. F., of Plain City.
MILTON C. SPRAGUE, M. D., is widely known throughout Madison County and universally esteemed. He is the son of Dr. James B. and Sarah S. Chamberlain Sprague, both natives of this State, where the father is an old and honored practitioner. Of the parental family of seven children only two lived to mature years, Cecelia F., and Milton C.
He of whom we write was born in Harmony Township, Clarke County, this State, October 23, 1849. He was reared to manhood in his native place, and attended the common schools in his district, supplementing the knowledge gained therein by a three years' course in the schools at Springfield. Desiring to follow in the footsteps of his father; as regards an occupation in life, Mr. Sprague, in 1869, began the study of medicine, and after reading under that gentleman for some time, entered the Cincinnati Medical College, from which institution he was graduated in the Class of '74.
When starting out in life for himself, Dr. Sprague began the practice of his profession in London, thence, after two years, removed to Marseilles, Wyandot County. He remained in that place, however, only a twelvemonth, and again returning to London, became identified with the interests of that section and remained until January, 1880, at which date he came to Summerford, where his friends are as numerous as his acquaintances. He is numbered among the most prominent citizens in the county, and his increasing years in practice have not made him careless, but have added to his interest in his chosen profession, and broadened his knowledge of the human system and the remedial agencies by which it can be restored to health when impaired by a violation of nature's laws.
The lady who became the wife of our subject in August, 1871, was Miss Alice C., daughter of Spafford and Rachel (Goodfellow) Hurd, residents of Vienna, Clarke County, this State. They were the parents of a family of three children, of whom Mrs. Sprague is the eldest. She was born in the above-named bounty, June 3, 1852, and by her union with the Doctor has become the mother of two children, Clarence M. and Anna H. Dr. Sprague takes a deep interest in the cause of education, and for a number of years held a place on the School Board. He is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, in which he has many and warm friends. With his wife, he is a devoted member of the Christian Church, and his wife has served as Superintendent of the Sunday-school many times.
JOSIAH MORRIS, who resides on his pleasant and well-appointed farm nine miles west of Plain City in Monroe Township, is one of the leading farmers and public officers in this part of Madison County. He is a native of the afore-mentioned township, born here in pioneer times, March 23, 1837, being the date of his birth. His grandparents on both sides of the house were among the original settlers of Ohio, and his parents among the early settlers of this county.
The father of our subject, David Morris, was born in Kentucky, in 1807, and when he was seven years old he came to Ohio with his parents, Joseph and Lavina (Drake) Morris, who settled in Clarke County. He there met Sarah Weaver, a native of the county, who was born in 1813, and in course of time they married. Her parents, George and Elizabeth Weaver, were early pioneers of that part of Ohio, having settled there in 1802, coming from Virginia. They came to Madison County in 1835, to brave the dangers of the wilderness, that they might build up a comfortable home.
After their marriage in Clarke County in 1831, the parents of our subject located on a new farm in Logan County, whence they came to Madison County three years later. The father improved a good farm in Monroe Township and here died in
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his eighty-fourth year. His name will always .be preserved in the annals of the township as one of its noble pioneers who did good service in reclaiming it from the wilderness. His good wife died in her sixty-eighth year. They were the parents of six children; five of whom grew to maturity, namely: Solomon and Josiah (twins); Sarilda, wife of J. M. Bradley; John and Benjamin.
He of whom write is the fourth child of his parents in order of birth. His education was conducted in the local schools of his native town, and on his father's farm he gained a thorough knowledge of farming in all its details, which experience was of use to him when he began his independent career as a farmer. He remained an inmate of the parental household until he was twenty-one, in the year 1858, and then went out into the world, going Westward as far as Missouri, where he remained until 1861, devoting himself to farming. The breaking out of the war caused a decided change in his plans. Ile was a strong Unionist at heart, but was drafted into the rebel army. Not caring to fight against the Stars and Stripes, he quietly deserted three days after his enforced enlistment, and, coming back to his native county, he joined the Federal army in 1862, becoming a member of Company E, Eighty-fourth Ohio, Infantry. He served honorably four months and was then discharged at Delaware, Ohio.
After his return from the army, our subject resumed farming, and after his marriage he at once took up his residence on his farm in Monroe Township. There were but few improvements and h built the first house on the place, a small frame structure. He has since cleared away the brush and forest trees with which the land was encumbered, and has wrought a wonderful transformation, placing the land under fine cultivation and erecting neat and commodious now
for every needed purpose, and he has now a model farm, embracing three hundred and thirty-one acres of land in all, one hundred and eighty-one acres in the home place and one hundred and fifty acres elsewhere in the same township. When he started here, aside from his land, he had only two horses and a cow. From that small beginning he has become very prosperous and raises many cattle, horses and hogs .His fellow-citizens, appreciating his capacity for managing affairs, as well as his sterling merit, have entrusted various important offices to his care. Ile is now Trustee of the township and Supervisor of Roads. He was Captain of militia in 1863. He is well known as a Mason and is identified with Urania Lodge No. 311, Plain City. In politics, he a Republican.
The marriage of our subject with Miss Orpha Sidebottom took place February 21, 1865. To them have been born two daughters: Rosa, wife of C. D. Trimble, a boot and shoe dealer at Zanesville, and Carrie, a teacher in Union County. Mrs Morris was born at Mr. Pleasant, Jefferson County, November 10, 1846, and is the third child and eldest daughter of John H. and Eliza (Taylor) Sidebottom. Her father, who was Fife-Major of the Eighty-fourth Ohio Infantry during the war, serving four years in that capacity, was born near Winchester, Va. Her mother was born in Jefferson County, and there both died and were buried in the cemetery at Mt. Pleasant. They were the parents of ten children.
ISAAC TANNER. This prominent and progressive farmer of Darby Township, Pickaway County, is a man who has proved himself a hard-working citizen, and who is well known for his intelligence and good judgment. He belongs to one of the earliest families who settled in this county, and he was born on the farm which he now occupies, November 12, 1848. His father, David Tanner, was born in New York, August 8, 1808, and was a son of Peter Tanner, a German by birth, who came to America with his father when a boy, and, having settled in New York, married an American woman, and here reared his family. They had a household of twelve children, whom they brought up upon a farm. The grandfather died at the age of seventy, after coming to Ohio.
The father of our subject came to Ohio with his father when quite young, settling first near Cincinnati, and later in Darby Township, Pickaway
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County, where he bought the farm known as the Bailey Farm. He settled there in the wilderness, and, building a log cabin, began life in pioneer fashion. He was prospered so that after some time he bought the present farm, which adjoined the old one. His gun, still cherished by our subject, was the means of bringing down many a fat deer and turkey, and of thus supplying the family larder. He had a tract of five hundred and sixteen acres, which he had bought and paid for, but he lost, on account of an old claim on a part of the land, all but one hundred and eighty-seven acres of it. Notwithstanding his push, pluck and perseverance, and his rapid accumulation of property, h met with severe reverses through going security for others, losing in all some $12,000 thereby.
David Tanner was a Whig and a Republican in his earlier years, and continued thus until the question came up of the negroes' right of suffrage, at which time he became a Democrat. He held from time to time some minor offices in the township, and his death occurred February 1, 1876. In 1833, he married Catherine George, who was born near Darbyville, in this county, December 12, 1815. Her parcnts, Pornick and Catherine (Van Meter) George, wcre natives of Tennessee and Virginia, respectively, and, after their marriage in Virginia, lived in Kentucky for• a few years, and later settled at Chillicothe, Ohio, when there was only a log store in what is now a thriving metropolis. During their first year there, they lived in tents, surrounded by Indians, and often feared to lie down and sleep at night. During their residence there, the mother made a visit to Virginia, traveling on horseback, with her infant in her arms.
The grandparents of our subject settled on Darby Creek, two miles below Darbyville, in 1812. Mr. George served his country in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. He settled upon a farm, buying several hundred acres of land, and brought it to a productive condition. In those days he had to go to Zanesville for salt and provisions, camping out nights, and sometimes being obliged to throw firebrands to keep the wolves from attacking his camp. His milling was done at Halls Mills, near Circleville, on Darby Creek, and there he had to go on horseback. His daughter, the mother of our subject, remembers having to pen the sheep at night to keep the wolves from stealing them, and could hear those wild beasts howling about the cabin at night. Mr. George died at the age of eighty-four, and his wife when seventy-four years old.
Of the twelve children belonging to the parents of our subject, eight are living, namely: Mary, Peter, Julia, Catherine, Isaac, John, Martha, and Amanda. Those that died were George, William, Oraminta, and one who died in infancy. The mother still resides with our subject, and is highly esteemed for her past years of usefulness and her truly pious character. She joined the Methodist Episcopal Church forty-five years ago, and takes great interest in religious matters.
The early training and education of Isaac Tanner was obtained on the farm and in the district school, and he worked at home until a year after his marriage, when he was twenty-four years old. His wife, to whom he was united January 23,1873, was Mary Story, who was born in Franklin County, Ohio, near Galloway, October 23, 1851. Her parents, Joseph W. and Mary (Turner) Story, were born in Delaware and Illinois, respectively, and both came to Ohio when young, and were married at Circleville.
The Storys first settled in this county, five miles south of Circleville, and lived for several years in a log shanty, as they were poor and were ready to undertake the privations of pioneer life with cheerfulness. Their household utensils Mr. Story carried on his back from Circleville when they set up housekeeping. Some years later, they settled in Franklin County, in the woods, and developed a two hundred and, fifty acre farm. He was a hard worker and a man' of extraordinary constitution, and lived to be eighty-four years of age, dying in 1891. His wife died at the age of thirty-eight, when her daughter, Mrs. Tanner, was two weeks old.
The eighty-seven acres of land which are comprised in the farm of Mr. Tanner are all thoroughly improved, and upon them he carries on mixed farming, raising both grain and stock. He also rents land of others, and carries on extensive op-
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erations. His hogs are of the Poland-China breed and are excellent stock. Mrs. Tanner is an earnest and devoted member of the Methodist Church, and is esteemed most highly for her ability and character. Mr. Tanner's political views bring him into harmony with the Republican party, and he casts his vote for the ticket put in the field by that party.
JOHN W INGRIM, proprietor of a harness and saddlery establishment at Mt. Sterling, if the oldest merchant in continuous business the place. He was born in Deer Creek Township, Pickaway County, Ohio, March 30, 1839. His grandfather, George Ingrim, came from Scotland, and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Kinnear, was a native of Ireland. She was of the Protestant faith and was one of the best-informed women on the Bible in the country. She died in Indiana.
Andrew M. Ingrim, father of our subject, was born in Venango County, Pa., and was a tailor by trade. He married Mary Snyder, a native of Chillicothe, Ohio. When our subject was about two years old, they moved to Pulaski County, Ind., where the father was killed by the falling of a tree. Mrs. Ingrim with her only child returned to Pickaway County. At the age of nineteen, the latter began learning harness-making, serving a two-years' apprenticeship under C. H. Hanawalt, who paid him $36 the first year and board and $72 the second year. He then embarked in business for himself, but three months afterwards was burned out and lost nearly everything. He then worked for his former employer until the breaking out of the late war, when he tried to enlist in an artillery company of three-months' troops, but the quota was full. He afterwards went to Champaign County, Ill., where he spent two months, and on his return to Ohio, worked for William Berdell in Columbus. He next came to Mt. Sterling and entered into partnership with W. H. Snyder in the harness business, but in July, 1862, sold out to his partner and enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Thirteenth Ohio Infantry.
Mr. Ingrim was mustered in at Camp Chase,. and was afterwards sent to Louisville and then to Nashville, where he was sick in the hospital from February, 11 until April 15. He then joined his regiment and was appointed Quartermaster-Sergeant on the 1st of May, 1863. In Bridgeport, Ala., he was again taken sick and sent back to Nashville, where he was discharged on the 14th of November of that year, when he at once returned to his home.
On the 4th of February, 1864, his step-father, W. C. Atkins, died, and upon him devolved the responsibility of supporting his widowed mother and her five children. He faithfully performed this task, sacrificing his own interests for the benefit of those depending upon him. With a borrowed capital of $150, he soon opened a harness shop and has since been engaged in business in this line. Prosperity has attended his efforts since that time. His half-sisters are now married and his two half-brothers he taught his trade. One is now working with Mr. Ingrim, but the other died in 1881. Our subject now has an excellent business and also owns his store and his pleasant residence.
On the 16th of November, 1865, Mr. Ingrim wedded Miss Maggie E. Myers, who was born in Fayette County, Ohio, November 3, 1843, and is a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Green) Myers, Unto them have been born five children: Ordie D., who was born in Mt. Sterling, July 10, 1867, and is now a stenographer of Kansas City, Mo.; Minnie Myers, who was born in Mt. Sterling, October 16, 1869, and graduated from the High School; Charles W., born February 24, 1872; Ada A., born May 12, 1876, will graduate in 1893; and Mamie E., who was born April 16, 1879, died at the age of five years.
Mr. Ingrim is a stanch Republican. He has never sought office, but served nine years as a member of the School Board. He is a prominent Mason. Since 1862, he has been connected with the fraternity and has taken the Thirty-second Degree, has filled various offices and served three years as Master. He became a member of the Odd Fellows' society in 1878, was District Deputy Grand Master of Madison County, and is a charter member of the Daughters of Rebekah. He is a
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member of the Encampment, and has four times represented the lodge in the Grand Lodge. He is a charter member of J. C. Bostwick Post No. 406, G, A. R., is Past Commander and has twice attended the National Unions. He also belongs to the Patriotic Order of Sons of America. He has been a member of the Methodist Church since 1855, is a prominent worker and has served as Steward, Trustee, Class-leader and Superintendent of the Sunday-school. His life has been well and worthily spent. His sterling worth and many excellencies of character have won him high regard and he is recognized as a leading citizen of Mt. Sterling.
JOHN H. PARRETT. Fayette County is greatly indebted for its present wealth and high standing to the,. sturdy, intelligent, enterprising tillers of the soil, who have been instrumental in developing and sustaining its vast agricultural interests. As a worthy member of its farming community, who has contributed toward its material advancement, its gives us pleasure to present the biography and portrait of John H. Parrett in this volume. A native of Ross County, he was born October 11, 1821, and is a son of Joseph F. and Sarah Parrett. They were Virginians by birth, both born in the same place, the father in 1791 and the mother in 1795. The Parrett family originated in Switzerland, the founder of the branch in America being Frederick Parrett, great-grandfather of our subject, who came to this country in 1735, and settled in Virginia. He had six sons, who did noble service in Revolution, and among them was Frederick Parrettt, Jr., who was the grandfather of our subject.
Joseph F. Parrett grew to manhood in his native State which at that period afforded but meagre school privileges to the children born within its borders. He was married in 1814, and at once set out with his bride for Ross County, in this State, the journey being made overland, and after his arrival bought one hundred and five acres of wild land on Buckskin Creek. His first house was a
23
most humble structure, being built of logs and having a chimney on the outside made of mud and sticks. Thus, this energetic pioneer came into the wilderness with nothing but his hands with which to make his fortune, but he had a resolute will, knew well how to work advantageously, and his labors were crowned with success. The rude cabin of the early days of his settlement here gave place to a beautiful residence, and the original one hundred and five acres of land were added to by further purchases, until he owned over eight hundred acres of fine farming land. He accumulated his property by attending strictly to his business as a farmer and stock-raiser. Politically, he was a Whig. In his religious belief, he remained true to. the Presbyterian faith, to which his parents had held.
The first wife of our subject's father was Sarah, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Wilkin) Hass, natives of Virginia. John Hass came to Ohio in 1814, and was a pioneer farmer of Licking County, in which he lived until he closed his eyes in death at the age of eighty years. Elizabeth Wilkin was a daughter of Godfrey Wilkin, who came from Switzerland to this country in company with Frederick Parrett in 1735, and settled in Virginia. Ten children were born to the parents of our subject, of whom these seven grew to maturity: Eliza, wife of Adam Nebergall; Mary A., wife of William Thomas; Mrs. Sarah Ware, deceased; John H.; Henry C.; Absalom and Aaron, deceased. Joseph Parrett was married a second time, Malena Caley becoming his wife, and she bore him six children: George F., J. Milton; Margaret J., wife of John Braden; Susan E., wife of Isaac McClure; W. James and Augustus F.
Our subject was well trained in all kinds of farm work under his father's instruction, and remained with him until twenty-three years old, when he went on a farm in Ross County with his brother-in-law. He remained thereon six years, and in 1850 purchased the farm he now occupies in Wayne Township. This is a fine place, with well-tilled fields and rich pastures, with a commodious set of buildings, and all the modern improvements to be found on a well-managed farm. The beautiful brick residence in which he and his fam-
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ily have a very pleasant home, he built in 1860, making all the brick himself. The first ten years of his married life were spent in a comfortable log house.
Mr. Parrett's home is presided over by the best of wives, to whom he was married December 24, 1850. Mrs. Parrett, who bore the maiden name of Sarah A. Harper, was born in Maryland in 1824, and is a daughter of Caleb and Mary Harper, who were natives of Delaware. The fruit of her union with our subject is four children, namely: Caleb, Joseph; Mary, wife of C. W. Crosby, and Sally, wife of A. L. Ireland. Mr. Parrett and his wife are people of high standing in the community where they have lived so many years, and they and three of their children are members of the Presbyterian Church, while Sally is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics, our subject is a Republican of strong convictions. He has been much sought after to help administer public affairs; as his ability and business tact bring him to the front, and he has held most of the township offices, besides being County Commissioner and a member of the Board of Equalization.
JOHN S. NEFF. No farmer in Pickaway County has a better record as a thoughtful progressive and enterprising man of business, than John S. Neff, of Jackson Township, nor do any handle extensive and valuable farming and stock-raising interests better than he. Our subject was born in Berkeley County, Va., July 8, 1821, a son of Jacob Neff, who was also a Virginian by birth, the family being of German origin. His father was an extensive farmer in his native State, although he never owned any land there. He came to this county in 1845, traveling with a team across the mountains, and settled in Muhlenburg Township, where he farmed as a renter for several years. After the war, he removed to Moultrie County, Ill., and there died, at the venerable age of eighty-three years. He was a good man and for thirty years was a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics, he was a sound Democrat. He married for his first wife Sarah Painter, who was born in Virginia and died young, when her son, our subject, was only six years old, leaving two other boys, William and Tilson. The father married a second time, Miss Margaret Clark becoming his wife, and they reared a family of four boys and four girls. The mother of our subject was a member of the Reformed Lutheran Church.
The boyhood days of our subject were spent on a Virginia farm and he attended the district schools whenever opportunity offered. At the age of sixteen, he began to work out at $6 per month, and was so engaged the most of the time until he came here. In 1845, he accompanied his father in the ever memorable journey from his native State to this, he driving the team. His first winter here, he hired out at $10 per month to make fence posts, etc., and then started in business for himself as a fence-maker, continuing in that line for eight or nine years, both winter and summer. In that manner, he obtained a goodly capital with which to establish himself as a farmer, and invested in seventy-two acres of his present farm. Only a little of his land was improved, but he devoted his energies to its development, and not only placed that under fine cultivation, but bought other land from time to time, and now has six hundred and seventy-five acres lying in and around Jackson Township, conveniently divided into four farms. There are three hundred and seventy acres in the home farm, another comprises seventy-five acres, and two farms contain one hundred and fifteen acres each. The land is all improved, and besides raising a good deal of grain, our subject has as many cattle, horses and hogs as his land will support. He fattens cattle every year, and he keeps some fine roadsters and draft horses. He carries on his farming operations after the best modern methods, making a careful study of his business and keeping himself well posted on agricultural topics by taking the best farm journals published. His improvements are of a substantial order, and include a large frame residence, built in 1867, and a good-sized frame barn erected in 1876.
Mr. Neff was married, November 17, 1853, to
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Elizabeth Owens, a native of this county. Her death occurred in 1873. She was the mother of five children, as follows: Laura, wife of James Van Vickie, a farmer of Pickaway County; Sarah V., wife of Samuel Metzger, a farmer of Jackson Township; Mary E., who married James McCollister, and died in 1892; William, who married Mary Diar and lives on a farm in Moultrie County, Ill.; John S., who married Elizabeth Pherson and farms on his father's farm. Our subject was married again, October 31, 1876, Mary Flemming becoming his wife. She is a native of this county, and was born in Wayne Township, September 30, 1836.
Our subject is a purely self-made man, who began life without a dollar and is now numbered among the most wealthy men of Jackson Township. He has a remarkable talent for business, is keen, far-seeing, prompt in money matters and justly attributes his success in life to his close attention to the management of his affairs, to good judgment and wise economy. He is a member of the Democratic party, and has held high public positions. In 1874, he was elected County Commissioner, and served until 1880. He has been Trustee and Treasurer of Jackson Township for some years, and looks well after the interests intrusted to his care.
IRWIN BOGGS, of the old and prominent Boggs family, is a grandson of Maj. John Boggs (see sketch of Lemuel Boggs), and a wealthy, young and popular agriculturist. His father, James Taylor Boggs, was born on the Old Elm Farm in Pickaway Township, Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1818, and was a son of Maj. John Boggs, one of the prominent men of his section in his time and day. The father of our subject became the owner of the family (Elm) farm, the Boggs homestead, of five hundred and twenty acres, and became one of the successful and progressive farmers of his locality. He also owned a farm of four hundred and twenty acres in Ross County, dealt largely in stock, and was thoroughly alive to all enterprises that had for their object the advancement of the farming and stock-raising interests of the vicinity. He was a man widely known, an honest, whole-souled gentleman, and one much esteemed by all. He was struck by a train and instantly killed in June, 1888, at the Scioto Valley depot. He was interred in the family grave-yard at the Old Elm Farm. In politics, he was a supporter of Democratic principles. His wife and the mother of our subject, Mrs. Minerva (Whitsel) Boggs, was born in Greene Township, Ross County, Ohio, and her father, who was born in the East, was one of the early settlers of Ross County. Mrs. Boggs now resides in Circleville, and is well respected by all. Of the five children born to them, all are living and enjoying good health: Mary, Mrs. John Davenport, now resides in Circleville; Taylor, now residing in Chillicothe, is engaged in the hardware business, and an ex-Commissioner of Ross County; Samuel resides in Pickaway Township, Pickaway County, this State, and James is engaged in business in Circleville.
The original of this notice, who was third in order of birth of the above-mentioned children, was born on the Elm Farm, January 31, 1856, and there grew to manhood. He received his scholastic training in the district school until sixteen years of age, when he supplemented the same by a two-years' course in the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. After this, he remained at home until 1883, and then went to live with an uncle, John Boggs, one of the largest land-owners in the county, having one farm of eighteen hundred acres, and also large tracts in other parts of the county. He has been very successful. Our subject took charge of his uncle's affairs, but the latter died in March, 1884, while on his way home from Chillicothe. Our subject then became the owner of six hundred and forty acres of land in the home place, is still the owner of it, and is one of the most prominent young farmers of the-county. His farm is bottom land, in the Scioto River Valley, and is very productive and fertile. He has a large brick residence, and his barns, sheds, etc., are all kept up in good shape, showing that a thrifty hand is at the helm. He is engaged in rais-
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ing corn and wheat, and was engaged in the stock business, raising a fine grade of about fifty head of Shorthorn cattle and many good draft horses annually, until 1889.
Our subject was married first in 1883, to Elizabeth Niles, daughter of O. E. Niles. She was born in Circleville, and died here in 1887, leaving one son, John. Mr. Boggs' second marriage occurred in September, 1891, to Mary Morris, a native of Pickaway Township, this county, who was the adopted .daughter of B. W. Morris, of Circleville. She received her education in, and graduated from, the schools of Circleville, and afterward taught school for three years. She is an accomplished and intelligent lady. In politics, Mr. Boggs is a Democrat, has been a delegate to county and State conventions, and has been a member of the Central Committee.
GEORGE J. McMULLEN. One of the most important points about the building of a private residence or business block is the plumbing. Through defective work, noxious gases are apt to arise, typhoid fever and other diseases spread, and death follows closely in their train. It is imperative then that the most skilled workmen should be employed, and that the sanitary arrangements should be effected upon the most scientific of principles. Among those holding a high reputation as a sanitary plumber, house-fitter and heater, is George J. McMullen, who is an excellent and progressive business man, and is held in high esteem in the community. He is what one may call a self-made man in every sense of that much abused term, for he started out at the bottom of the ladder, and by his industry and superior ability, has reached the top round in his business.
Mr. McMullen was born in this county, on the 18th of February, 1845, and his father, Robert McMullen, was a native of Pennsylvania and of Scotch descent. The father was a cooper by trade and was married in Berks County, Pa., to Miss Elana Kayler, a native of Berks. County, where she was reared. Some time in the '30s, Mr. McMullen emigrated to Ohio, settled in Circleville, and there followed his trade for many years. He died in 1854, when forty-five years of age, and his wife received her final summons in Circleville in 1874. Both were members of the Lutheran Church. The father's last words were, "Mother, keep the children together as long as possible." Both were highly respected in the community in which they lived and led the lives of honest, industrious citizens. Nine children were born to this couple, and two sisters and our subject reside in Circleville. Five of these children died in childhood and one brother died in 1868.
The original of this notice was the second in order of birth of the above-mentioned children and at an early age he was taken from school to assist his mother in making a living. When but eleven years of age he was employed to do odd jobs, and later, was in the match factory for two years, manufacturing watches by hand. After this, he was in a restaurant for three years, but he says, "Thanks to God, I never formed any bad habits." As time passed, he became convinced that the best thing he could do would be to learn a trade, and with the assistance of Mr. Glick he entered the shops of W. W. Beirce & Co. and continued with them eleven years in all. He became foreman of the shop and became thoroughly familiar with the business in all its details. After this, about 1870, with L. H. Hoffman, he started out in the tin roofing and heating business, bought out P. Kimmey, and they continued together for seventeen years, meeting with much success. Later, they started a branch store and ran this in partnership until the spring of 1889, when they dissolved partnership.
Our subject then started out for himself and has continued the business with surprising success ever since. He owns two large stores, two stories in height, with a frontage of fifty feet and extending backward one hundred and fifty feet. He also owns plumbing shop, warerooms, etc., and is one of the most popular plumbers in the city. His business is located on Main Street, between Court and Scioto Streets, and he employs ten men. He
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does the city water tapping. Mr. McMullen resides on High Street and owns a comfortable brick residence erected in 1882. He also owns considerable real estate in Columbus.
In October, 1867, he married Miss Martha Floor, a native of Pennsylvania, but who was reared in Hocking County, this State, and the fruits of this union were three children: Fannie, now Mrs. Howard, resides in Circleville; Grace, who graduated here in 1890 and is now attending the Wesleyan University at Delaware; and Le Roy, at home. Mr. McMullen was a member of the Council from 1884 to 1886, and was Chairman of the Public Grounds and Building Committee. He is a member of Colombia Lodge No. 32, I. O. O. F.; Pickaway Encampment, and was a delegate to the Grand Encampment three times. He is also a member of the Royal Arcanum, and belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is a Trustee, and has been Class-leader for some time. In politics, he is a Democrat.
JOHN O. SIFRIT, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Paint Township, Madison County. He was born May 16, 1855, in Union Township, and is the youngest of three children whose parents were John and Melissa (Harper) Sifrit. Charlotte, the eldest, married John Gaib, a merchant of Columbus, and has live children; Martin Jasper resides in Paint Township and has four children.
The mother died when our subject was about two weeks old, and he went to live with his grandfather, James Sifrit. He was reared near his present farm and acquired a good education which was completed in the London High School. He possesses much musical talent and at the age of sixteen began teaching vocal music. On attaining his majority, he married Miss Oria Eachus, who was born in Union Township, this county, June 22, 1858, and is a daughter of John and Sarah (Hutson) Eachus.
The father of Mrs. Sifrit is manager of twelve hundred acres of the Buffenburg Farm. He was born near Richmond, Ind., October 4, 1829, and is a son of Abner R. and Elizabeth (Troxel) Eachus, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania. As children, they came to Madison County, and when first married went to Indiana, but afterward returned to this county. Their son, John W., grew to manhood in Paint Township, and when he started out in life for himself, began working by the month for cattle drovers. He was thus employed for three years. He was married, April 14, 1855, to Miss Sara, daughter of John K. and Hannah Hutson, and went to Franklin County, Ohio, where he operated a rented farm for four years. Since that time, he has been connected with the Buffenburg Farm.
Mr. and Mrs. Eachus have a family of six children: Viola is the wife of Frank Mitchell, a dealer in horses of Philadelphia, and has one child; Mrs. Sifrit is the next younger; Jennie is the wife of Harry Barker, a commercial traveler residing in Cincinnati, and they have two children; John, Scott and Holton are still at home. Mr. Eachus cast his Presidential vote in 1852 with the Whig party and since the organization of the Republican party has been one of its stanch supporters. He is a highly-respected citizen of this community and a well-known farmer.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sifrit have been born five children: Grace, born August 25, 1877; Jay Russell, July 29, 1881; Scott O., August 30, 1883; Fay, February 16, 1886, and Glenn Emerson, August 4, 1889.
In his political affiliations, Mr. Sifrit has been a stanch Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for R. B. Hayes. He has served as Township Trustee, and also as Assessor, and the duties of the offices were promptly and faithfully discharged. Since his marriage, he has resided in Paint Township, where he follows farming and has also operated a threshing-machine. About 1888, he turned his attention to the rasing of fine stock and has met with good success in this line. He has some registered stock of the pure blooded Holstein cattle. He operates two hundred and ten acres of land and the neat appearance of the place indicates the thrift and enterprise of a careful manager. Our subject may well be termed a self-made man,
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for by his own efforts he has worked his way upward from a humble position until he is now classed among the substantial farmers of the community.
HENRY C. BLACKER. We herewith present the sketch of a prominent and well-to-do farmer and stock-raiser, whose home is located upon section 1, Circleville Township, Pickaway County. He was born in Frederick County, Va., November 24, 1822, and is the son of Joseph and Clarissa (Payne) Blacker, also natives of the Old Dominion. They emigrated to Ohio, January 1, 1833, and located on Round Prairie, Pickaway County. They later removed to Ross County, where the father died in 1838, when sixty-five years of age. He was a patriot in the War of 1812, and was always warmly interested in all measures which affected his community.
Henry Blacker, Sr., the grandfather of our subject, was born in Germany, and emigrated to the United States at an early day. He made his home in Virginia, where he became the owner of a large tract of land. The mother of our subject died in this county about 1854, and with her husband was a member of the Catholic Church. Henry C. Blacker, of this sketch, was the ninth in order of birth of the parental family of eleven children, five of whom are living. He was ten years of age when he accompanied his parents to Ohio, and therefore attended the common schools in Pickaway County. His advantages for obtaining an education were very limited, however, as his father died when he was fifteen years of age, and the care of the family thus fell upon his young shoulders. He carried on the home farm until his mother's death, when he moved into Jackson Township and rented a tract of land, which he operated for several years. He purchased his present property in 1861', moving hither a few years later.
Marion Bowsher became the wife of our subject in 1854. She was the daughter of Anthony Bowsher; he being born in Pennsylvania. He came here at a very early day, and entered the land upon which our subject makes, his home. Mr. Bowsher died in 1865, and the mother about 1830. The thirteen children born to Mr. and Mrs. Blacker bear the respective names of Missouri, Clarissa, Josephine, Sarah E., Seymour, John, Della, George, Mary, Nettie, Harry, and two who died in infancy.
The original of this sketch votes with the Democratic party. For five years he was a Director of the County Infirmary, and has otherwise been greatly interested in local affairs. Mrs. Blacker is a member in good standing of the Evangelical Church, in which body she is active in all good work. Our subject owns two hundred and eighty-seven and one-half acres of valuable land, ninety-four of which are located in Jackson Township. He has placed good and substantial buildings on his estate, not the least among which is a commodious residence. His place is well stocked with good grades of cattle and horses, which, in addition to his cereals, bring him in a fine income. His land is located in what is known as the Scioto Valley, which is of very rich soil. Mr. Blacker is self-made in the truest sense of the word, and his present high standing in the agricultural community has been brought about by his industry and persistence in right-doing.
WILLIAM TAGG, engineer in the Mt. Sterling Roller Mills, was born at Sherwood in Nottinghamshire, England, January 1, 1840, and is a son of William and Anna (William. son) Tagg. His maternal grandfather, William Williamson, was an Aide-de-Camp under Gen. Washington, and married the daughter of an Indian chief of the Cherokee Nation. He lived with the tribe until the chief for some reason became offended. He then fled to England with his wife, and our subject's mother was there reared and married.
William Tagg, whose name heads this record, was the youngest of six children, but the other five are all deceased. When he was about ten years old, his parents came to America, locating in
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Clinton, Summit County, Ohio. They had been here but a short time when Squire John Brown, of Clinton, begged to have the boy to raise, and our subject grew to manhood with him on a large farm. Mr. Brown owns a steam mill, and at the age of fourteen our subject began working in the mill, where he learned much about steam machinery, and also supplemented his knowledge thus acquired by extensive reading on the subject. At the early age of fifteen, he was intrusted to run the engine. At the age of eighteen, he was married, Miss Sarah Barkhammer, of Summit County, Ohio, becoming his wife, September 15, 1858.
Mr. Tagg enlisted in Company K, Nineteenth Ohio Infantry, as Chief Bugler, August 28, 1861. He participated in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, Perryville, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, was with Sherman from Cleveland, Tenn., to Jonesboro, and participated in the battle of Atlanta. After three years and two months of service, he was honorably discharged, having proved a competent and faithful soldier, loyal to the cause under whose banner he enlisted.
After his return from the army, Mr. Tagg was employed in Doylestown, Ohio, for seven and a half years, as chief machinist in a steam saw and flour mill, after which he was employed for two and a half years in the machine shops of the same place, his work being to repair engines. In 1877, he removed to Lilly Chapel, where he ran a saw mill for his mother•. Three years were spent in that place, after which Mr. Tagg became a resident of Columbus, and traveled on the road, selling and putting up engines for the Columbus Machine Company. After a year he returned to Lilly Chapel, and again had charge of his mother's mill for several years. He then put in an engine for J. T. Walters, of Mt. Sterling, who employed him as engineer. While operating his mother's mill, he had purchased and set up several engines in the vicinity. He is one of the best skilled mechanics, specially in repairing steam engines, in this region. h has now been in the employ of Mr. Walters for two years, and his services have proved highly acceptable.
In politics, Mr. Tagg is a Republican; and is a prominent member of the Methodist Church. He was organist for several years at Lilly Chapel, and has also been a teacher in the Sunday-school. He is a member of the Odd Fellows' Society, has taken the Rebekah Degree, is a Master Mason, and a member of the Patriotic Order of Sons of America. He owns property in Lilly Chapel, including two houses and eight acres of land.
HON. HARRY M. DAUGHERTY, junior member of the law firm of Maynard & Daugherty, is a native of Fayette County, having been born in Washington C. H., January 26, 1860. He is a son of John H. and Jane A. Daugherty, the father being born in Zanesville, Ohio, and the mother in Washington C. H. Grandfather Daugherty hailed from Ireland.
The original of this sketch has one brother, Mally S. Daugherty, who is at present residing in this city. The father died when Harry M. was a lad of four years, but his mother, who is still living, makes her home in Washington C. H. He of whom we write was given a good education in the schools of his native place and later attending the Michigan University, was graduated from the law department of that institution with the Class of '81. He immediately began the practice of his profession in this city and in 1881 formed a partnership with Col. H. B. Maynard. They have had a large and paying practice from the outset and have gained the esteem of the most eminent men in the State, who are proud to claim them as friends and associates.
The maternal grandfather of our subject, Micajah Draper, was one of the early settlers in this county/ and departed this life in 1889, leaving a comfortable fortune. He was a thoroughly honest and much respected citizen and during his life held many offices of trust in this township, being keenly alive to matters of public importance. His business was that of a farmer and grain merchant, in which he was more than ordinarily successful.
Harry M. Daugherty is an active member of the Republican party, on which ticket he was elected Township Clerk in 1882 and a member of the City
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Council two years later. He was a member of the State Central Committee for the years 1890 and 1891, also has served as Chairman and Secretary of the Republican Central and Executive Committee of the county and in 1889 was elected to the Legislature and. re-elected to a second term in 1891. He was chairman of the famous caucus which organized the House of Representatives during the great Senatorial fight between Sherman and Foraker. He is serving at the present time as Chairman of the Committee on Corporations. in the House and also as a member of numerous judiciary committees. He, has acquired a wide-spread fame as a lawyer and is a man, who, unless the tension is made too tight, will find a work that will broaden as the years pass by.
In September, 1884, Miss Lucy M. Walker and our subject were united in marriage. Mrs. Daugherty was born in February, 1860, and by her union with our subject has become the mother of two children, Emily Belle and Draper M., aged respectively six and three years.
ALBERT W. WILSON. Madison County is the home of a large number of enterprising and progressive farmers whose estates add attractiveness too the landscape, being marked by first-class improvements, and the air of order and thrift which gives one unacquainted with farm life a good idea of the value of rural property. Canaan Township has her share of these well-regulated farms, one of which is owned by Albert W. Wilson, and comprises one thousand acres of finely cultivated land. Although young in years, he has good standing among those of his own calling and, in all business circles is held in high repute.
Alexander Wilson, the father of our subject, was born in this county, February 22, 1831, and in 1854 married Miss Martha J. Millikin. He was one of the extensive land-owners in this section, having by industry and good business investments accumulated an estate of three thousand acres. The mother was the daughter of Daniel Millikin, and was born in 1829, in Washington County, Pa. Our subject was the youngest child in the parental family of four children, the others being Henry C., whose sketch will be found on another page of this work; Lavina, Mrs. William E. White; and Grant, who died in infancy.
The original of this sketch was born in Jefferson Township, January 17, 1871, and there resided until he attained his majority. He was given an excellent education, finishing his studies in the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. When establishing a home of his own, Mr. Wilson was married, November 4, 1891, to Miss Winnie, daughter of Columbus and Mary Huddle. His place is adorned with first-class buildings of every description and he may be justly looked upon as one of the rising young business men of Madison County.
Elsewhere in this volume may be found a view of the attractive home of Mr. Wilson.
DR. DAVID H. VARIAN, who is engaged in the manufacture of various medicines in Mt. Sterling, was born March 22, 1828, in Gallia County, Ohio, and is a son of Lemuel W. and Roxana (Griffith) Varian, both natives of New York. In their childhood they had come to Ohio, where the father learned the cooper's trade. Immediately after their marriage they settled upon a farm and there our subject was born and reared, his time being passed in the usual manner of farmer lads. He acquired his education by attendance at the common schools during the winter season and in a select school in Porter, Ohio. At the age of twenty-one, he began teaching, and followed that profession for twelve years. During that time he was united in marriage with Miss Harriet C. Brown, the wedding being celebrated August 16, 1855.
Dr. Varian's next venture was in carpenter work and while thus engaged he began reading medicine and became interested in the part that the vegetable kingdom plays in this science. He became interested in this line, began experimenting in the use of plants as medicines, and from doctoring
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his own family, his practice gradually extended to his neighbors. In 1879, he entered the drug trade in Coalton, Jackson County, and also began the manufacture of his medicines and doing office practice. Subsequently, he removed to Gallia County, where he remained for eighteen months. His labors resulted in the discovery of the Infallible Neuralgia Cure. He then compounded his famous Stomach Bitters for the stomach and liver and afterward his liniment for pain and inflammation. He also discovered the Prickly Ash and Wintergreen for chronic rheumatism. In September, 1891, Dr. Varian came to Mt. Sterling and established a manufactory for making his medicines. He prints all of his own bills, and is doing a good business, keeping several teams on the road. His discoveries have proved of great importance, as many would attest.
Unto Doctor and Mrs. Varian have been born the following children: Truman W., who was born in Porter, Ohio, June 29, 1856, inherited musical talent from both his parents. He became a pupil in Mount Union Conservatory of Music, and has great skill in this art. He has been connected with the Reform School in Lancaster, Ohio, as editor of the School Journal, having served an apprenticeship as a printer between the ages of thirteen and eighteen years. He was afterwards an officer and teacher in the Reform School in Topeka, Kan., for sixteen months and from there came to Mt. Sterling to take charge of his father's business. He was married October 17, 1880, to Miss Nora Graves, who died in Columbus, Ohio, in 1887, leaving two daughters, Edith and Annie. He was again married, January 1, 1890, his second union being with Anna Mithoff, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1864. The second child of the family, Wellman T., who is engaged in fruit growing in Stark County, is married and has one child. Mrs. Linne Hoffman resides in Dayton, Ohio. Everett E. B. is a book-keeper of Columbus, and Mrs. Harriet Redding makes her home in Oregon, N. M.
Dr. Varian is a Democrat in politics, having supported that party since he cast first vote in 1852. He has held various local offices, having served as Justice of the Peace, Township Trustee, Constable, and he was the first Mayor of Coalton, Ohio. Socially, he is a member of the Odd Fellows' society. He has a wide acquaintance in this community, although he has resided here but a short time, and is highly esteemed.
HENRY RUNKLE, who is of the oldest pioneer stock of Ohio, and was born in Perry County, May 29, 1828, has developed a valuable farm in Walnut Township that is well tilled, well drained and very productive, and has thus materially aided in advancing the growth of Pickaway County. Our subject is a son of Daniel Runkle, who came to Ohio with his parents, who were early settlers of Perry County, coming to this State from Virginia, where their son had been born in 1802. He grew up amid the wild scenes of frontier life in Perry County, and in the early days of the settlement of Pickaway County he came here to cast in his fortunes with the pioneers of this section, becoming one of the original settlers of Walnut Township. He took up a tract of new land, and by hard labor transformed it into a goodly farm, and here his long life was brought to a close in May, 1887, and thus departed one who had held an honorable rank among the pioneers who founded the county. His first wife, Elizabeth Kroninger, was a native of Pickaway County. After her death, he married again, and the following of his children survive: Henry, Abraham, Levi, Noah, George; Christina, wife of David Adkins; and Mary, wife of Solomon Yantis.
Henry Runkle had a full experience of pioneer life, with its privations and hardships, and with its compensations withal, during his boyhood, his growth being commensurate with the growth of his native township, in which he has always dwelt. As soon as large enough, he had to help his father fell the huge old forest trees that covered his land, and to prepare the soil for cultivation, and while yet quite young he became well posted in farming. He went to school in a log cabin, in which slabs served for seats, and a board placed on
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wooden pins that were driven into the wall did duty as a writing-desk. In time; he became an independent farmer, and has placed his one hundred and fifty-two acres of land in a fine condition. He has erected a good class of buildings, has put in tiling for drainage to the value of $1,600 and has modern machinery for every needed purpose.
Our subject's wife, to whom he was married, September 15, 1853, has afforded him much assistance in the making of their cozy home, over which she presides with true hospitality. Her maiden name was Saloma, Hall. She was born March 20, 1834, and is a sister of Peter Hall, of Madison Township, in whose biography mention is made of her parental history. These five of the seven children born to her and our subject are living: Alice, wife of Henry Hulse; Albert, David, William and Ephraim. Peter and Benjamin are dead.
Mr. Runkle is one of our self-made men, and all the property that he acquired is the result of his patient labors, seconded by thrifty management and the faculty of judging correctly. He is exemplary in his habits and conduct, acting in accordance with true Christian principles, and in him and his estimable wife the Lutheran Church has two of its most zealous members. His political sentiments he seems to have inherited in a degree from his father, and, like him, he stands firmly by the Democratic party.
EDWARD SMITH, one of the prominent and wealthy citizens of Pickaway County, resides in Circleville. He was born in County Down, Ireland, in September, 1826. His father, Patrick Smith, was a native of the same county, and about 1827 emigrated to Canada, locating in Toronto, where he remained until his death, which occurred in 1831. He married Rose Anna Mc Quinn, also a native of County Down, Ireland. After her husband's death, she supported her family, and by her careful training, cherished in her boys those habits of industry and self-reliance which became the basis of their fortune. In 1836, she married Bernard Riley, who was also a native of Ireland. He proved a true father to his stepsons, who remained with him until his death in 1850. In 1838, they removed to Lockport, N. Y., where they remained until June, 1840, and then came to Circleville, Mr. Riley engaging in farming. His wife made her home in this city until her death in 1877; at the age of seventy-six years. By her first marriage she had three children: Edward; Patrick, who died in- Toronto; and Joseph P., who is represented elsewhere in this work.
Mr. Smith, of this sketch, attended school in Toronto until 1838, after which he worked in the shops on the Erie Canal, near Lockport, N. Y., and attended school in the winter. With the family he came to Circleville, and was employed on the farm of Thomas Huston for two years. He remained at home during the greater part of the time until his step-father's death. He was largely engaged in raising broom-corn and in general farming: Soon after Mr. Riley's death, in company with his brother, be purchased all his personal property at public sale, and then rented land of Thomas Huston, which they cultivated on shares for one season. In November, 1850, Mr. Smith went with the Eaton brothers, who were then engaged in iron mining, to Northern Michigan, taking with him four horses. He staid in the mines until February 1, 1851, when he sold his horses to his employers, and, with two other young men, started on snowshoes for the lower part of Green Bay. They camped out every night for a week, sleeping in snow dugouts, and on reaching Green Bay, walked on the ice to Green Bay City. Much of the remaining distance was accomplished by stage and rail from Michigan City. In the latter part of February, he reached Circleville, having been three weeks in making the trip. He then made arrangements to engage in farming with his brother. In the fall of 1851, George Chrysler, of Lockport, N. Y., came West to engage parties to raise broomcorn for him. He was referred to the Smith brothers, who entered Into a contract to supply him with corn from two hundred acres of land. A farm of that size they rented, and the first crop amounted to over seventy tons. This was the be-
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ginning of their successful career in the broom-corn business, which has not only brought wealth into the coffers of our subject, but has kept want from the door of many an industrious man. Since that time, the Smith brothers have planted each year from six hundred to eight hundred acres in broomcorn.
In February, 1855, in this city, Mr. Smith led to the marriage altar Miss Sarah A. Lynch, who was born near Gettysburg, Pa., and is a daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Sharkey) Lynch, who came to Ohio in 1841. Her father was a native of the Emerald Isle, her mother of the Keystone State. Seven children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Smith, four of whom are yet living: Elizabeth; Joseph the most extensive breeder of thorough-bred horses in the county; and Edward E. and James I., who are engaged in the manufacture of corn-meal for export trade, their mill having a capacity of two hundrcd and fifty barrels daily.
In connection with his other business, Mr. Smith is interested in mining in Colorado. He is a Director of the Emmett Mine in Leadville, and also of the Ohio Mining Company in Georgetown, Colo. His landed possessions now aggregate twelve hundred acres, and, with the exception of a quarter-section, all is situated within, or adjoins the corporation limits, of Circleville. The land is all improved with fine buildings, and the income derived therefrom makes Mr. Smith one of the substantial citizens of the community. He also owns considerable real estate in the city, including a half-interest in the Lynch & Smith Block, and a half-interest in the Pickaway House. His own residence was built in 1862. It is a commodious and elegant frame dwelling, and the grounds, beautifully laid out and adorned with evergreens, are hardly to be surpassed. He has done much for the unbuilding of the city and county, was the largest stockholder from Pickaway County in the Scioto Valley Railroad Company, in which he served as a Director, and it was through his influence that the road was secured. He is a Director in the First National Bank, and a stockholder in the Third National Bank.
In politics, Mr. Smith was a Whig, then supported the Republican party from the time of Lincoln to Grant's second term. In 1872, he voted for Horace Greeley, and since that time has been a Democrat. He has served three terms as Township Clerk, and has been a member of the City Council from the Third Ward continuously since 1872. He was President of the Council for more than twelve years, and is its oldest member. He has been a leading member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, has contributed liberally to its support, and donated the grounds upon which the house of worship was erected. His success in life has been most marked, and has all been acquired through his own efforts, for which he certainly deserves much credit.
SAMUEL C. ROBERTS, M. D. Prominent among the physicians and surgeons of Washington C. H., is this gentleman, who has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession in Fayette County for the past twenty years, although he has resided in this city only ten years of the time. He is well known as a member of the United States Examining Pension Board, having been appointed to that position under President Harrison. In the Fayette County Medical Society, his opinion has considerable weight, and his influence is ever in behalf of the advancement of the profession which he ably represents.
In 1688, about the period of the English Revolution, three brothers, John, Henry and James Roberts, emigrated from South Wales to the Colony of Virginia, and the son of the first-named brother, William by name, was the great-grandfather of our subject. The sixth of his eight sons was William, who was born in Culpeper County, Va., in 1762, and was a cousin of Gen. Andrew Jackson. During the war for American Independence, he enlisted in the service of the Colonies, and at the close of the war held a Captain's commission. He married Miss Hannah Fink, and their marriage certificate, dated March 26, 1787, is now in the possession of our subject, a highly-prized heirloom.
Grandfather Roberts and his wife removed to
494 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Ross County, Ohio,, in 1798, mid located twelve miles east of Chillicothe, on the Kinnickinnick Creek, entering a farm from the Government and there remaining until 1835, when both passed away from earth. Their children numbered twelve, and the tenth child was Isaac, who was born on the old homestead September 3, 1804. He was married to Mercy Chedister December 22, 1825, and unto them were born thirteen children, three of whom died in infancy. S. C. of this sketch was the third child, and was born August 31, 1832; the others are: 'William E., Wilmeth A. Barnes, Margaret, Harriet E., Anna M. Miller, Jacob U., James D., Isaac A, and Laura J.
Our subject was born in Colerain Township, Ross County, Ohio, August 31, 1832. He received a common-school education, after which he continued his literary studies alone. He read medicine for five years with Dr. James D. Miller, formerly of Bainbridge, now of Chillicothe, and afterward took two Courses of medical lectures at the Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, graduating with the highest honors February 17, 1853. In the fall of the same year, he located at Sinking Spring, Highland County, Ohio, where he remained until April, 1855, and then removed to Bainbridge; Ross County. In that place he continued his practice until 1871, when he removed to a farm in Concord Township, Fayette County, which was unimproved at the time of purchase and on which he spent $20,000 in improvements. At that beautiful place, surrounded by every comfort that conduces to the pleasures of life, he resided for ten years, meanwhile devoting his attention to his practice.
In raising blooded stock, Dr. Roberts became greatly interested, and especially in Short-horn cattle. He sold a heifer for $1,500, which was the highest price that had up to that time been paid for a yearling heifer in the State of Ohio. He was also interested in imported Berkshire hogs, and his were among the finest ever brought to Fayette County. Thus he not only made a profitable speculation for himself, but greatly improved the general stock of the county. In 1882, he sold the farm and came to Washington C. H., where he has been in active practice ever since, retaining his practice in the neighborhood of his former residence, besides gaining a large number of patients in the city. It is said that he made the largest broom-corn sale ever made at one time, selling one hundred tons for $15,000 at one sale in 1874. He has an elegant brick residence on the corner of Market and Lewis Streets and Columbia Avenue, and also owns the fine brick house on the adjoining lot.
Soon after he graduated from Starling Medical College, Dr. Roberts was married, May 10, 1853, to Miss Mary E. Bowen, of Bainbridge, this State, and the happy wedded life was terminated July 4,1877, when the devoted wife passed from earth. The six children who survived her were as follows: Anna M., born April 16, 1854; Charles L., January 23, 1860; Frank K., April 8, 1864; John L, born December 4, 1866 and died April 1, 1883; Margaret A., born September 18, 1869; and Samuel C., March 31, 1872. The eldest daughter, Anna M., died March 29, 1881, after a lingering illness from consumption. She was a highly cultivated lady and had unusual talent as an artist, besides having received a collegiate education at Delaware, Ohio. Every room in the beautiful home bears indications of her artistic skill, and her memory is almost worshiped by her father.
The second marriage of Dr. Roberts united him with Miss Mary E., daughter of. Elihu Hogan, of Lexington, Ky. Her father was a man of prominence in the Blue Grass State, was Mayor of Lexington and represented his district in both the House and Senate. Mrs. Roberts was born in Lexington, June 2, 1845, and received her education in Lexington and in New Orleans, whither her father had removed. The members of the family are attendants at, and supporters of, the Presbyterian Church, with which Mrs. Roberts and Miss Maggie are identified.
WASHINGTON T. HEWITT is the senior member of the firm of Hewitt Bros., of Midway, Madison County, dealers in general merchandise. He embarked in business in this line in the spring of 1867, and has since carried
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on operations as a general merchant. His brother became a member of the firm in 1871. They are doing a good business, which has constantly increased from the beginning, their fair dealing and courteous treatment of their customers having won them a liberal patronage.
Mr. Hewitt was born near New Petersburgh, Highland County, Ohio, March 16, 1840, and is a son of Addison P. and Hettie (Taylor) Hewitt. His father was a farmer, and removed to Franklin County, near Shadesville, Ohio, when our subject was about fifteen years old. The father was a prosperous farmer, but in 1840 met with financial reverses, resulting from the panic of 1837. He was a well-read man, and prominent, and took an active part in the Methodist Church. He gave liberally to its support, and to other philanthropic enterprises. In politics, he was a Republican. The family numbered ten children, one of whom died at the age of seven years. The others are all yet living, and are doing well in life. There is but one sister, Mrs. Mary Deckart, of Commercial Point, who has one son and four daughters. William L. is a farmer residing near Darbyville; Daniel D. follows farming near Darbyville; Henry H. is a school teacher of California; Washington is the next younger; Addison P. is a partner of our subject, and resides in Midway; James Q. is a farmer of Pickaway County; Andrew A., twin brother, to James, is a dealer in agricultural implements in Mt. Sterling, and Allen O. is a machinist at Cincinnati.
Our subject acquired a good education, and was reared on his father's farm. In the spring of 1865, he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio Infantry, and served as guard at Martinsburgh, Va., White House Landing and City Point. He was in the hospital on account of a sun-stroke received at Bermuda Hundred. In the fall h received his discharge and returned home; but for two years was unable to engage in manual labor, on account of ill health. He weighed only seventy-two pounds when he returned from the army. He then engaged in the fire-insurance business, which gave him a chance to travel, and benefitted his health so that he afterwards weighed two hundred pounds. For two years he was an insurance agent, and then embarked in his present business.
Mr. Hewitt was married on the 30th of March, 1871, Miss Louisa M. Groves becoming his wife. She was born in Piqua, Ohio, March 2, 1848, and is a daughter of William D. and Ellen (Minshall) Groves. Three children have been born unto them: Carl, born in 1877; Frank, born in 1880 and Palmer, born on the 7th of February, 1882. All were born in Midway. The family holds a high position in social circles, and are esteemed citizens of the community. Mr. Hewitt has been a stalwart Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He has served as a delegate to the county and congressional conventions, has been Corporation Treasurer, a member of .the School Board, and served on the Council. He is a prominent Mason, having taken the Thirty-second Degree.
MARTIN M. SLAUGHTER was born in Stokes Township, Madison County, August 21, 1861, and devotes his entire time and attention to the cultivation of the soil, raising thoroughbred roadsters. He possesses those qualifications of the mind which are essential to success in business, and is recognized as a man of ability, who occupies a high place in the esteem of his fellow-citizens.
The parents of our subject, Reuben and Matilda (Denton) Slaughter, were natives, respectively, of Highland and Madison Counties, this State. The husband and father departed this life in June, 1882, leaving a family, of whom we make the following mention: John, the eldest, died at the age of twenty years; Reuben is a farmer and makes his home in Stokes Township, Madison County; Drucilla passed to the land beyond in her fifteenth year; James also is living in Stokes Township; Martin M., of this sketch, is the next in order of birth, and Sydney married D. C. Badger, a lawyer of London.
Martin M. Slaughter was reared on the home farm and began doing for himself upon reaching
496 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
his majority, by operating a farm and investing in stock. June 5,1889, he was married to Miss Mary P. Pancake, of Stokes Township, where her birth occurred, January 5, 1870. Mrs. Slaughter was the daughter of John and Ceralda (Paullin) Pancake, a most estimable lady, who has borne her husband one daughter, Jessie Hannah, who was born March 13, 1890. Soon after his marriage, our. subject located on thee farm which is his present abiding-place, and erected a residence which cost $3,000. His estate comprises two hundred and eighty acres, which he has under thorough cultivation, and which ranks among the best to be found in the township, and sixty acres in Stokes Township. He engages quite extensively in breeding stock, and in all that he undertakes shows qualities of perseverance and determination which insure him. success. Politically, he is a stanch Democrat, casting his first Presidential vote for Cleveland, 'in 1884. He has been sent as a delegate to county conventions, and is quite influential in the ranks of his party in this portion of the State.
ANDREW ROBINSON BOLIN is recognized as one of the leading members of the Pickaway County Bar. He resides in Circleville, where he has engaged in the practice of law since 1873. He was born in this city in 1849. The Bolin family is of French-Irish descent, and the name was changed from Boleyn to Bolen and afterward the present form was assumed. The grandfather of our subject, John Bolin, was a native of Ireland and emigrated to Martinsburgh, Va., in the early part of the present century. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and died at Norfolk, Va., while in the service.
John Bolin, Jr., the father of our subject, was born in Martinsburgh, Va., in 1807, learned the carpenter's trade in his native State, and for some years before he went West was an overseer on his uncle's plantation. He wedded Mary A. Brannon, who was born in Martinsburgh in 1809. Her parents died when she was quite small and she was reared by an uncle. About a year after his marriage, Mr. Bolin brought his wife to Ohio, in 1834. His mother came a few years later and made her home with him until her death. He first settled in Jackson Township and afterward located in Circleville, where he engaged in contracting and building. Subsequently, he operated a farm in Monroe Township and later engaged in hotel-keeping. About 1875, he removed to Harrisburgh, Franklin County, where he purchased and carried on an hotel until his death in 1887. He was a Democrat and took an active interest in political affairs but did not aspire to office. His wife passed away in 1862. They had a family of seven children. William E., who died June 28, 1890, was a prominent farmer and grain dealer. He served as County Sheriff two terms, was a Director of the County Infirmary several years, was Mayor of the city, and Superintendent of the water-works. He was a very prominent and public-spirited man who bore a leading part in the unbuilding of the community. James R. died in Columbus in 1890; Mrs. Emily E. Hazwell resides in Circleville; Mary and Susan are both deceased; George W. is a veterinary surgeon of Washington, Ind. Our subject completes the family. He began life for himself at the age of twelve years, and being ambitious to secure an education, bent all his energies in that direction. He completed the public-school course of Circleville at the age of seventeen, after which he engaged in teaching for a short time and in 1867, at the age of twenty, entered Miami University at Oxford, from which he was graduated in 1871 with the degree of A. B., carrying off the honors of the Class. The institution has since conferred upon him the degree of A. M.
On the 8th of April, 1875, Mr: Bolin married Miss Sophronia Rector, daughter of Edward and Sophronia (Blodgett) Rector. Her father was a nephew of Edward Tiffin, the first Governor of Ohio, whom he much resembled. By his uncle, he was brought from Virginia to Ohio in 1798, at which time there were but three cabins in Chilllcothe. He became one of the earliest and most respected pioneers of Pickaway County and a large land-owner. The lady whom he married came to the county from Plymouth, N. H., in 1837, to engage in school teaching. Three children have been
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born unto Mr. and Mrs. Bolin: Stuart, born in 1878; Nellie, who died in July, 1888, at the age of four years; Mabel, born in 1889.
Mr. Bolin chose the law as a profession and studied in the office of Judge Joseph Olds, now of Columbus, also of Henry F. Page, and in October, 1872, entered the Cincinnati Law School, from which was graduated in 1873, with the degree of LL. B. He immediately began practice in Circleville among the friends of his early life who knew his integrity and natural ability. He was not long in attaining prominence, and his practice has since extended to the adjoining counties and to the Supreme Court of the United States. He figured prominently in the Thomas Brown will case, in which he sustained the will, covering $300,000 worth of property, and the famous McArthur will case, in which was engaged a large array of the leading talent of the State. He was also on the case of Bond versus Renick, and has been successful on many important criminal cases.
Mr. Bolin was candidate of his district for Presidential Elector in 1880, on the Hancock ticket. In 1888, he was chosen by the Democratic party to make the race for Congress against Gen. R. P. Kennedy. At the previous election the Republican majority was four thousand and twenty-five, but Mr. Bolin cut it down to thirty-two hundred and seventy, his great personal popularity winning him many votes. He has been an indefatigable worker for his party and in 1888 canvassed Indiana as well as his own State, making fifty speeches in all. Mr. Bolin has been President of the Board of City of Examiners for the greater part of the time during seventeen years. He is Past Master of the Blue Lodge, High Priest of the Chapter, and Eminent Commander of the Sciota Commandery, K. T., of Circleville, and has been delegate and representative to the Grand Lodge. His wife, a most estimable lady, is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
As a lawyer, Mr. Bolin is diligent and careful in preparation of his cases, but his peculiar strength lies in his power of argument, his keen perception and fluent use of language. He possesses to a great degree natural grace and refinement of disposition. He is affable and pleasant, but never compromises his dignity as a gentleman. He is also an excellent conversationalist, well informed on all topics of general interest, and therefore popular.
DR. J. G. SMITH. Although young in years, our subject has every prospect of becoming one of the foremost professional men of Pickaway County, for he has won quite a reputation already as a practitioner of the "healing art." He possesses advanced ideas and progressive principles regarding his profession, and is gifted with a full share of the sterling characteristics of the native Kentuckian.
Our subject's birth occurred in Elizabethtown, Hardin County, Ky., on the 12th of January, 1866, and h was the eldest of three children born to Albertus and Mary E. (Gardner) Smith. Grandfather Jacob G. Smith, after whom our subject was named, was born in Hagerstown, Md., and was a shoemaker by trade. He left his native State and crossed the mountains on foot to Ohio, where he followed his trade for many years. He died in 1891, when seventy-four years of age. His wife, whose maiden name was Sarah Smith, is still living and makes her home with our subject. The grandfather was a quiet, unassuming man, and strictly temperate. His ancestors came from Germany to Virginia and thence to Maryland. Our subject's maternal grandfather, the Hon. George H. Gardner, was born in the Blue Grass State, but came from Virginia stock. He was a well-to-do pioneer of Kentucky and held many prominent positions in that State. He was a member of the State Legislature, was also Sheriff and Judge, and he died there, one of the most prominent men of the county. He was a strong Presbyterian in his religious views.
Albertus Smith, father of our subject, was born in Circleville, Ohio, and learned the harness-maker's trade in Kentucky. He remained with an uncle from the age of fifteen until twenty-one, and then started in the harness-making business for himself, continuing this until 1870. During
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the trouble between the North and South, he was a strong Union man, and, as a consequence, he sold out and returned to Circleville, Ohio. After reaching this city, he embarked in merchandising and has been in business here since. In 1880, he engaged in the grocery business, continued this for eight years, and then returned to the. harness business. He married Miss Gardner, a native of Elizabethtown, Ky., and three children blessed this union: our subject; Mary E., at home, ,and Sarah J. Both the father and mother are members of the Methodist Church.
Dr. J. G. Smith remained in his native State until four years of age and then came with his parents to Circleville, Ohio, where he received his literary education. He left the High School when in the junior year to assist his father in the, grocery business, and continued to assist him in this until he sold out his stock. His father wanted him to study law, but our subject was of a different opinion, and when about the age of twenty-one, he began the study of medicine under Dr. Ralph Morden, with whom he continued until the fall of 1888. He then entered the University of Michigan, Homeopathy department of medicine, and after remaining there two years, or until .1890, entered the Chicago Homeopathy College, from which he was graduated with the degree of M. D. in 1891. He then returned to Circleville, began practicing his profession, and has met with much success. He is independent in his political views.
HON. DANIEL J. MYERS. Throughout Southern Ohio, a prominent place in business and political circles is held by the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch and whose labors as Probate Judge showed the possession of erudition and great ability. He is known and honored, not only in Circleville, where he resides, but also in other cities of the State.
A brief account of the parentage and lineage of Judge Myers will be of interest to the reader. His father, Daniel Myers; was born in Green Township, Ross County, Ohio, of which Grandfather Myers, a native of Pennsylvania, was one, of the earliest settlers and a pioneer farmer, who also engaged in flat-boating down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans. Grandfather Myers became ill with the fever at Natchez, and there died. Daniel Myers was reared and married in Green Township, where he afterward operated over two hundred acres of farming land. In 1876, he rented his place and located on a tract of land, eleven acres in extent, adjoining the city of Circleville, where he now conducts a fruit and garden business. He owns sixty acres in the Scioto Valley and is in comfortable circumstances.
For six years, Daniel Myers served as Director of the County Infirmary, for two terms was Vice-president of that institution, and has always been prominent in public affairs. Socially, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and in his religious connections is identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Julia Foust, was born in Salt Creek Township, Pickaway County. Her father, Christian Foust, was born in Pennsylvania, whence he removed to Salt Creek Township at an early day and was proprietor of an hotel on the Zanesville and Maysville Pike. Mrs. Julia Myers died in Green Township, in 1870, leaving six children, as follows: Mary, George, Missouri, Daniel J, Ella, and Isaac Newton, who died in Ross County, in 1875, at the age of eighteen years.
Born in Green Township, Ross County, July 3, 1851, our subject was reared on the home farm
and received the advantages of a common-school education. In 1868, he entered Heidelberg
College, Tiffin, Ohio, where he attended until the commencement of the junior year, and then,
ceasing his literary studies, entered the office of the Chillicothe Advertiser, continuing there until
1874. His health failing, he was advised by his physician to change his business, and accordingly
came to Circleville, in March, 1874, where he and his brother George opened a meat market. In
1881, he sold out and embarked in the clothing business with Robert P. Hain, as his partner, the