250 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY years executive officer of the Ohio Federation of Labor. Fraternally he is a member of the Masonic order, the Knights of the Maccabees and the Loyal Order of Moose. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and is a consistent supporter of everything calculated to promote the public welfare along material, civic or moral lines. A man of high ideals and earnest purpose, and of dependable and substantial qualities, throughout the community he commands uniform confidence and respect. LESTER HOWARD Throughout his career Lester Howard has closely applied himself to the work in hand, thus advancing steadily, and is now prominently identified with the investment banking business in Toledo. He was born in West Jefferson, Madison county, Ohio, September 16, 1884, and is a son of Frank W. and Emma Jane (Heath) Howard, also natives of this state. The father was successfully engaged in the decorating business for several years and is now living retired in Columbus, Ohio. The Heath family is one of the oldest in the state, in which it has been represented since 1800, when members of the family settled in Chillicothe, Ohio. After the completion of his high school course Lester Howard enrolled as a student in Ohio State University, which he attended for three years, and then became a railroad employe. He continued in that line of work for fifteen years and was with the Pennsylvania and Norfolk & Western roads. For a few years he devoted his attention to the grain business and was connected with the Toledo Produce Exchange. In 1926 he became associated with the investment house of P. W. Chapman, Inc., and on April 1, 1928, established a business of his own. He deals only in high class securities and has an office on the fourth floor of the Home Bank building. Carefully studying the individual requirements of investors, he is able to supply their needs and has already won a large and desirable clientele. Mr. Howard is a director of the Sylvania Golf Club and has been its golf champion for four years, and is also treas- TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 253 urer of the Golf Construction & Maintenance Company, Inc. He is a Mason and closely adheres to the beneficent teachings of the order. He enjoys the social side of life, and his genuine worth is attested by a large circle of stanch friends. GEORGE FREDERICK SCHNEIDER Toledo presents many opportunities for advancement to the man of courageous spirit, alert mind and energetic, self-reliant nature, and of this type is George Frederick Schneider, who is well known in business circles of the city as one of the organizers and partners of the Motive Parts & Supply Company. He was born in Hoover, Indiana, February 23, 1892, and is a son of Frederick and Mary (Firth) Schneider. The family is of German origin and was established in the United States by Gottlieb Schneider, who was one of the early settlers of Fort Wayne, Indiana. His son, Frederick Schneider, was born, reared and educated in that city and for many years was identified with the sawmill industry. He cleared most of the country in and about Logansport and is now living retired in Reynolds, Indiana. His wife was born in the latter town, and her father was a Scotchman, while her mother was a native of England. Mr. and Mrs. Schneider have four children, two sons and two daughters. The eldest, George F. Schneider, was educated in New Waverly, Indiana, and was graduated from high school about 1910. Afterward he was employed chiefly along mercantile lines and in February, 1916, came to Toledo, arriving here an entire stranger. He secured a position in the parts department of the Grasser Motor Company but resigned in August, 1917, when he enlisted in the United States Army. Mr. Schneider was detailed for duty with the Three Hundred and Twenty-fifth Regiment of Field Artillery, attached to the Eighty-fourth Division, and was sent to France. He was made sergeant of his company but did not participate in any of the battles of the World war and after his honorable discharge returned to Toledo, reentering the service of the Grasser Motor Company. He remained with the firm until March 1, 1921, when he formed a partnership with Lewis Paul Lut- 254 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY trell, a fellow worker, and they have since been associated in the conduct of the business of the Motive Parts & Supply Company, jobbers of replacement and automotive parts. They started on a small scale at No. 711 Jefferson street and later moved to their present location at No. 145 Erie street. In addition to automotive parts they carry a complete line of parts for internal combustion and employ twelve persons in the store, while they also have three traveling salesmen. Thoroughly experienced in the lines in which they specialize, the partners have succeeded beyond their expectations and conduct a business of state-wide scope and importance. In May, 1920, Mr. Schneider was married in Toledo to Miss Anna E. Melcher, a native of the city and a daughter of Henry and Anna (Waldcutter) Melcher, both of German descent and early settlers of Toledo. The father has passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Schneider are the parents of a daughter, Mary Ann, who was born March 1, 1922, in Toledo. They reside in an attractive home at No. 568 Prouty street and have a wide circle of friends. Mr. Schneider is a consistent member of St. Lucas Lutheran church, and his political allegiance is 'given to the republican party. He is a thirty-second degree Mason and Shriner and takes a deep interest in the activities of the order. For diversion he turns to the sports of hunting and fishing and also enjoys boating. He is an earnest, systematic worker and keeps in close touch with the latest developments in the automotive trade. Mr. Schneider is a fine type of the modern business man and has conscientiously discharged the duties and obligations of citizenship, lending the weight of his support to all projects of reform, progress and improvement. WILLIAM J. SEITZ, D. D. S. Dr. William J. Seitz, who has been engaged in the practice of dentistry in Toledo for a score of years, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, October 3, 1883, a son of William H. and Josephine (Ballweg) Seitz both of whom were born in Germany. His father was brought to this country when four- TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 255 teen years of age and went direct to Cincinnati, where he had relatives. He learned the trade of an interior decorator, which he followed for many years there and in Henry, Illinois. Later in life he turned his attention to the cement contracting business, which he carried on up to the time of his death in 1909. He is survived by his widow, who now makes her home with her son, Dr. Seitz, in Toledo. To these parents were born nine children. William J. Seitz entered the dental department of the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated, with the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, in 1909. He at once came to his present location, 406 East Broadway, Toledo, where he has practiced continuously to the present time. On October 14, 1914, Dr. Seitz was united in marriage to Miss Edna Munger, of Toledo, whose parents, John and Mary E. Munger, are deceased. Mrs. Seitz died on December 16, 1925, leaving two daughters, Elizabeth Marie, born on August 8, 1916; and Mary Josephine, born on July 6, 1922. The family attend St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic church. HENRY W. DIERKSHEIDE, M. D. Diligent, conscientious and efficient, Dr. Henry W. Dierksheide has steadily advanced in the field of professional service and is generally regarded as one of the leading physicians of Pemberville, his native town. He was born October 18, 1893, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Peter) Dierksheide. He attended the public schools of Pemberville and afterward completed a course in the Woodville Normal School. For a year he engaged in teaching and then matriculated in the Cincinnati Medical College, from which he was graduated in 1918. He served an interneship in the Bethesda and Mercy Hospitals and in 1919 returned to Pemberville, where he has since followed his profession. In diagnosis he is thorough and painstaking and utilizes his scientific knowledge to the best advantage in treating his patients, who are drawn from a wide area. Dr. Dierksheide was married August 24, 1922, to Esther 256 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY Nieman, of Pemberville, Ohio, who died April 14, 1924, of cerebral meningitis, which was a complication of typhoid fever. On September 14, 1927, the Doctor was united in marriage to Miss Mary Buhrow, of Toledo, and both have a large circle of friends in Pemberville. The Doctor adheres to the Lutheran faith and is a member of the Exchange Club, the Wood County and Ohio State Medical Societies and the American Medical Association. An earnest student, he keeps in close touch with newest developments in his profession, and his personal qualities are such as inspire respect and confidence. LOUIS F. HOFFMAN, D. D. S. Dr. Louis F. Hoffman has been engaged in the practice of dentistry in Toledo for the past five years, during which. period he has won a large and representative patronage and a reputation as a capable and reliable dentist. He was born at Glandorf, Ohio, on the 3d of August, 1887, a son of William and Veronica (Halker) Hoffman. For full reference to the family history the reader is referred to the biographical sketch of the Doctor's brother, Dr. Edward F. Hoffman, on another page of this work. Louis F. Hoffman was graduated from the Glandorf high school in 1903, after which he took. the normal course at St. Joseph's College, Collegeville, Indiana, from which he was graduated in 1906. After taking a thorough commercial course at the Davis Business College in Toledo, he became associated with his father in the piano business at Glandorf, and also taught school for several years. During the World war, he offered his services to the government and was in charge of personnel work at Newark, New Jersey, being honorably discharged at Port Newark, February 13, 1919, with the rank of corporal. After returning to Glandorf, he was again associated with his father for about two years, and then entered the dental school of Western Reserve University, at Cleveland, from which he was graduated with the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1925, since which time he has been located at 31011/2 Cherry street, Toledo, where he TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 257 has built up a large and prosperous dental practice, his office adjoining that of his brother, Dr. Edward F. Hoffman, who has been practicing dentistry here since 1912. In the summer of 1929 they were joined by their brother, Dr. Amos F. Hoffman, who also had graduated from Western Reserve University. The three brothers now occupy the entire second floor of the building and are numbered among the leading dentists of this city. Dr. Hoffman is a member of the Toledo Dental Society, the Ohio State Dental Society and the American Dental Association, and is also a member of the Epsilon chapter of the Psi Omega fraternity of Western Reserve University and was for two years editor of the fraternity paper. He is a member of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic church at Glandorf, while in politics he is independent. As a diversion from professional work, he indulges in various outdoor sports, as well as music, being a proficient piano player. He is a popular member of the social circles in which he moves and is highly regarded by those who have come in contact with him. LEWIS PAUL LUTTRELL Depending upon his own resources from an early age, Lewis Paul Luttrell has steadily progressed along the steep highway which leads to the goal of success and is now a member of the Motive Parts & Supply Company and a forceful personality in business circles of Toledo, his native city. He was born August 8, 1892, and is a son of George M. and Lillian May (Lewis) Luttrell. In the paternal line he is a scion of an old Virginia family of French origin. The Luttrells afterward lived in England, migrating from that country to America, and the family was represented in the Continental army during the Revolutionary war. George M. Luttrell was born February 1, 1861, in Clinton county, Ohio, and there acquired his early education, completing his studies in a college at Delaware, Ohio. Choosing the career of a journalist, he devoted his active life to that profession but is now living retired in Toledo. His wife was born in Dayton, 17-VOL. 4 258 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY Ohio, August 19, 1870, and passed away in that city in May, 1924, at the age of fifty-four years. She was a daughter of John and Mary Jane (Sage) Lewis and a niece of Russell Sage, the noted financier and capitalist. Mrs. Luttrell was also of French lineage and her forbears were among the early settlers of Toronto, Canada. The surviving children of Mr. and Mrs. Luttrell are : Lewis Paul; and Mary Jane, who is the wife of Howard White, of Dayton, Ohio. In the acquirement of an education Lewis P. Luttrell attended the public schools of Toledo and at the age of thirteen began his career as a wage earner. He obtained work with the Swigert Optical Company, starting at three dollars per week, and next held a position in the hardware store of Frank B. Test, a well known merchant of Toledo. For a time 'Mr. Luttrell sold life insurance and his third employers were the Grasser Motor Company. He spent four years with that firm, of which George F. Schneider was also an employe at that time, and on March 1, 1921, they combined their capital, forming the Motive Parts & Supply Company, in which they have since been partners. They are aggressive, far-sighted young business men and in a few years have developed one of the largest firms of the kind in northwestern Ohio. Mr. Luttrell was married August 11, 1914, in Toledo to Miss Anna C. Kanke, a native of this city and a daughter of Henry G. and Mary (Jasper) Kanke. Mrs. Luttrell is of German descent in the paternal line and represents one of the old families of Toledo. Madeline Jane, the only child of this union, was born January 21, 1917, in Toledo and is a public school pupil. The residence of the family is at No. 518 Orchard street and has been the scene of many enjoyable social gatherings. Mr. and Mrs. Luttrell are affiliated with St. Lucas Lutheran church and for four years he was superintendent of its Sunday school. Both are active in the affairs of the church, and Mrs. Luttrell also devotes much time to philanthropic work. Mr. Luttrell' belongs to Barton Smith Lodge, No. 613, of the Masonic fraternity and is also identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. In politics he is a republican, and derives relaxation and diversion from fishing and water sports. He TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 259 cooperates heartily in movements for the growth and betterment of his city, and is esteemed for the qualities which have made possible his success. MARTIN STEEDMAN DODD An experienced attorney of high standing, Martin Steed-man Dodd ably upholds the prestige of the Toledo bar, with which members of his family have long been connected, and he has also become well known through his legislative service, which covered a period of four years. He was born in this city, July 21, 1881, a son of Ezra S. and Annie (Acklin) Dodd, the former born in Napoleon, Ohio, July 8, 1841, while the latter is a native of Maysville, Kentucky, whence her parents, John and Martin Ann (Smith) Acklin, removed to Toledo, remaining here until their demise. As a wholesale grocer Mr. Acklin conducted a business of substantial proportions, while his political support was given to the democratic party. During the Civil war Ezra S. Dodd enlisted in the Union army, winning the commission of major, and was wounded while in the service. Early in the '70s he located in Toledo, where he was married to Miss Annie Acklin in 1878. A lawyer of pronounced ability, Mr. Dodd enjoyed an extensive practice and in recognition of his professional attainments was elected prosecuting attorney of Lucas county. He also served as state senator, establishing an enviable record in both offices. In politics he was a democrat, and his life was guided by the teachings of the Episcopal church, of which he was a vestryman for a number of years. He adhered to a high standard in the field of professional service, while as a citizen he was loyal and public-spirited. Death claimed him on the 29th of December, 1892, when he was fifty years of age and at the height of his usefulness. His widow still makes her home in Toledo. To them were born three children: Martin Steedman; Grafton, who lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Mrs. J. Blinn Stone, of Detroit, Michigan. Reared in his native city, Martin S. Dodd passed through consecutive grades to the high school, graduating with the 260 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY class of 1898, and then enrolled as a student in the University of Michigan, which awarded him the degree of LL. B. in 1902. In the same year he was admitted to the Ohio bar and at once began his legal career in Toledo in connection with the firm of Brown & Geddes, later forming a partnership with Frederick C. Averill, with whom he was associated for six years under the firm style of Averill & Dodd. Since that time Mr. Dodd has practiced alone, successfully handling many difficult cases, and his work in the courts is constantly increasing in volume as well as importance owing to his keen analytical powers, his close application and his ability to present his contention in the strongest possible light. On the 1st of January, 1922, he was appointed assistant law director of Toledo, which he still represents in that capacity, meeting every requirement of the office. Prompted by the spirit of patriotism, Mr. Dodd offered his aid to his country in its time of need and was accepted for service. At Camp Taylor he was commissioned a captain in the field artillery and in December, 1918, was honorably discharged, afterward resuming the practice of law in Toledo. On the 10th of September, 1912, Mr. Dodd was married in this city to Miss Isabel Hewitt, whose education was acquired in the Smead school of Toledo. Her father, Henry H. Hewitt, was one of the Harnit & Hewitt Company, wholesale grocers, and became vice president of the corporation and a leading representative of mercantile interests of Toledo. Mr. and Mrs. Dodd have two children, Marcia and Henry Hewitt. Mr. Dodd is an adherent of the republican party and on its ticket was elected to the state legislature in 1925, serving until 1929, and during the last two years of that period he was floor leader of the house. His knowledge of the needs of the commonwealth and his broad grasp of affairs made his labors in behalf of the state particularly effective and beneficial, winning for him high commendation. As a member of the Chamber of Commerce he is earnestly striving to stimulate the growth of his city and expand its trade relations. He also belongs to the American Legion, the chapter in Masonry, and the Toledo, Lucas County and Ohio State Bar Associations. Many of his leisure hours are spent in TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 261 the open, and fishing and hunting are his favorite sports. Responding readily to every call of duty and public service, Mr. Dodd has accomplished much good, at the same time winning that prosperity which is the legitimate reward of concentrated effort and honorable dealing. WAYNE E. STICHTER Wayne E. Stichter has won recognition as a capable and reliable lawyer and is regarded as one of the worthy members of the Toledo bar. He was born on the 22d of January, 1901, in Bradford, Miami county, Ohio, and is a son of George Jacob and Martha (Bell) Stichter. The father was born November 3, 1870, at Pleasant Hill, Miami county, Ohio, and is descended from an old Pennsylvania family of German origin, the family being traced back to the year 1189. It was founded in this country prior to the war of the Revolution, in which struggle the American progenitor participated. The grandparents of Wayne E. Stichter in the paternal line were W. K. and Nannie A. Stichter, the former born April 23, 1844, and the latter September 17, 1843. W. K. Stichter served with the Union army in the Civil war. His son, George J. Stichter, was reared and educated in Germantown, Ohio, and about 1890 located in Bradford, this state, where he is still living. He has long been identified with the railroad business. Politically he is a "stand pat" republican and he figures prominently in state, county and municipal affairs. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, while his religious connection is with the Methodist Episcopal church. On the 28th of May, 1892, at Gettysburg, Ohio, George J. Stichter married Miss Martha Bell, who was born at Colesville, Miami county, this state, August 30, 1870, and who died December 28, 1909, when thirty-nine years of age. Her parents were James B. and Sarah R. Bell, the former born at Tippecanoe City, Ohio, August 9, 1835, and the latter at Sidney, Shelby county, this state, in September, 1839. To Mr. and Mrs. George J. Stichter were born nine children, five sons and four daughters, of whom seven are living. 262 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY Wayne E. Stichter, who is the fifth in order of birth in this family, attended the public schools of Bradford, graduating from high school in 1917. In 1919 he entered Ohio State University, from which he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1922. In 1924, upon the completion of a three-year course in the law school of his alma mater, he received the degree of Juris Doctor. Prior to his graduation from law school he served as an assistant instructor in the department of political science of Ohio State University. On being admitted to the bar Mr. Stichter came to Toledo and entered upon the practice of law in association with the firm of Smith, Baker, Effler & Eastman, with which he is still connected. He specializes in corporation and insurance law and in the trial of cases, and is regarded as a strong, resourceful and successful attorney. Since September, 1925, Mr. Stichter has served as instructor in the law department of the University of the City of Toledo, his classes meeting one night a week during the school year. On August 25, 1925, in Columbus, Ohio, Mr. Stichter was united in marriage to Miss Irene Mason, who was born in Etna, Ohio, and is a daughter of Frank De Walt and Ada (Thrall) Mason. Her father, whose birth occurred near Reynoldsburg, Franklin county, Ohio, November 15, 1866, is a son of William and Lydia (Bish) Mason, the former born July 26, 1838, and the latter July 22, 1841. William Mason came of English and Welsh descent, while his wife was of Pennsylvania Dutch lineage. Mrs. Ada (Thrall) Mason, whose birth occurred at Kirkersville, Licking county, Ohio, October 26, 1877, is a daughter of Eliphas and Carolyn (Harris) Thrall, the former born at Brownsville, Ohio, September 25, 1852, while the latter was born in August, 1850. Frank De Walt and Ada (Thrall) Mason are the parents of a daughter and two sons, namely: Irene, who is the wife of Wayne E. Stichter and resides in Toledo; and Kenneth and Frank, both at home. Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Stichter are the parents of a son, Richard Duane, born in Toledo, November 22, 1928. Politically Mr. Stichter is a republican, while fraternally he is a member of Pyramid Lodge, No. 701, F. & A. M. ; Fort Meigs Chapter, No. 29, R. A. M. ; Toledo Council, No. 33, TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 263 R. & S. M.; Delta Theta Phi legal fraternity; Order of the Coif, an honorary legal fraternity; Delta Theta Phi Alumni Association, and the Toledo Ohio State Alumni Association. He also belongs to the Toledo Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Association. Mr. Stichter is a veteran of the World war, having enlisted May 12, 1917, in the United States navy; he was assigned to the United States Battleship Utah, on which he served until January 17, 1919, when he was honorably discharged with the rank of signal quartermaster. He is a man of earnest purpose; is a constant student of his profession, and his record thus far has gained for him the sincere respect of his fellow lawyers, while throughout the range of his acquaintance he commands confidence and esteem. His residence is at 4129 Overlook boulevard, Toledo, Ohio. ARTHUR M. SIMPSON, D. D. S. Among the able and greatly esteemed professional men of Toledo stands Dr. Arthur M. Simpson, who has been engaged in the practice of dentistry here for several years and commands a large practice. He was born in Hickory, Washington county, Pennsylvania, on the 8th of August, 1897, and is a son of William G. and Catherine Simpson. In the paternal line the Doctor traces the ancestry back to colonial days and he is eligible to membership in the Sons of the American Revolution, some of the members of his family having fought in that struggle. Others fought in the Mexican war, in which the Doctor's maternal grandfather was wounded. The Doctor is one of seven children who were born to his parents, the others being Richard W., of Hickory, Pennsylvania; John M., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Elzie J., of Pittsburgh; William R., of New York city; Edith, who lives in Hickory and teaches in the State Normal School at Slipperyrock, Pennsylvania; and Mary, who teaches in the public schools at Hickory. Arthur M. Simpson attended the public and high schools of Hickory, graduating from the latter in 1917, after which he spent a year in Muskingum College, at New Concord, Ohio. He then prepared for his professional career by a course in 264 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY the Dental College of Ohio State University, from which he was graduated, with the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, in 1923. He spent some time in the Toledo Dental Dispensary and in 1924 opened an office at 1614 Broadway which was up to date in its arrangement and equipment. September 1, 1929, Doctor Simpson moved his office to 219 Fifteenth street to a more central location. On November 29, 1922, Doctor Simpson was united in marriage to Miss Elcie Heffner, who was born in Columbus, Ohio, and they are the parents of three children, namely: Kathryn, born September 20, 1923; Arthur McClelland, born June 23, 1925, and Marylin E., born on January 22, 1928. The Doctor is a member of the Psi Omega dental fraternity, and he and his wife are members of the Third Presbyterian church. The Doctor is a veteran of the late war, having enlisted at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States Navy, in which he served one year, and was honorably discharged March 30, 1919. FREDERICK MELVIN DOUGLASS, M. D., F. A. C. S. Inheriting a talent for the medical profession, Dr. Frederick Melvin Douglass has rapidly progressed therein and although young in years he is accorded rank with the leading surgeons of Toledo. He was born in Kalida, Putnam county, Ohio, June 26, 1890, and is a son of Dr. Curry F. and Katherine (Melvin) Douglass. The grandfather, Jeremiah Douglass, aided in preserving the Union and after the Civil war engaged in farming and stock raising in Ohio. Dr. Curry F. Douglass was born in Madison county, Ohio, July 14, 1859, and is of Scotch lineage. He was graduated from the Western Reserve University at Cleveland and for forty-one years was continuously engaged in the general practice of medicine in Kalida, becoming recognized as one of the foremost representatives of his profession in Putnam county. In 1922 he retired and is now living in the Rose apartments at No. 2317 Putnam avenue, Toledo. He is an adherent of the republican party and while a resident of Kalida did much to further its advancement along educational lines. His wife TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 267 was born in Clark county, Ohio, July 8, 1862, and is of English descent. Her forbears migrated from Vermont to Ohio and were among the early settlers of the state. Dr. and Mrs. Curry F. Douglass have three children : Zella, who is the wife of Wallace 0. Roose, of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Frederick Melvin ; and Leon J., a resident of Toledo. Reared in his native town, Frederick Melvin Douglass was graduated from the Kalida high school in 1906 and then matriculated in Toledo University, from which he received the M. D. degree in 1911. At that time he was twenty-one years of age and the youngest member of his class. During the following year he served as an interne in St. Vincent's Hospital of Toledo and on the 1st of January, 1913, became an assistant to Dr. Julius H. Jacobson, a noted surgeon, while two years later he was admitted to a partnership. This association was continued until the death of Dr. Jacobson in December, 1918, and since that time Dr. Douglass has been alone. From 1916 to 1921 he was connected with the staff of the Lucas County Hospital and afterward became surgeon to St. Vincent's Hospital. He specializes in surgery and possesses skill of a high order. On November 3, 1913, Dr. Douglass was married in Detroit, Michigan, to Miss Ruth Jacobson, a daughter of Michael and Hannah (Powder) Jacobson and a sister of the late Dr. Julius H. Jacobson. Mrs. Douglass passed away February 20, 1922, at the age of twenty-nine years. She was the mother of three children, of whom two survive: Kathryn Jane, who was born in Toledo, September 21, 1915; and Frederick Melvin, Jr., born May 21, 1919. Dr. Douglass was married November 21, 1926, to Miss Beatrice Ossege, a native of Ottawa, Ohio, and a daughter of John J. Ossege. They reside at No. 2029 Potomac drive, in the suburb of Westmoreland, and the Doctor's office is at No. 421 Michigan street, Toledo. He is affiliated with the Collingwood Avenue Presbyterian church and votes the republican ticket at national elections, but casts an independent ballot when local issues are involved. Along fraternal lines' he is connected with the Masonic order, in which he holds the thirty-second degree, and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. 268 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY His public spirit prompts his activities as a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and his social nature finds expression in his identification with the Toledo Club, the University Club and the Heather Downs and Highland Meadows Country Clubs. For diversion he turns to fishing and also enjoys hunting. During the war Dr. Douglass was a member of the Officers Reserve Corps and the medical examining board of Toledo, also acting as substitute examiner for the draft board. He has constantly endeavored to perfect himself in his chosen line of work and in 1914, 1916 and 1918 attended clinics in the leading hospitals of New York, Boston and Philadelphia. He is deeply interested in the scientific and humanitarian phases of his profession and is the author of a number of important articles on surgery which he has read at state and local gatherings of his fellow practitioners. In 1920 he was made a member of the American Association of Obstetricians, Gynecologists and Abdominal Surgeons and since 1921 has been a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is also connected with the Toledo and Lucas County Academy of Medicine, the Northwestern Ohio, Ohio State and Tri-State Medical Societies and the American Medical Association. While he has not yet attained the zenith of his powers, Dr. Douglass enjoys the distinction of leadership in his profession, and his life, much as it holds of accomplishment, is still rich in promise. JOHN E. GUNCKEL Words of wisdom have stimulated the intellect of thousands, but words of love have guided and shaped the lives of millions; and it was words of love that John E. Gunckel was continuously speaking. He came into contact with men and women, boys and girls, throughout the length and breadth of the land and there was none who met him that did not feel his influence to some extent and was lifted to a higher plane by his inspiring words. "To awaken the little seeds of good asleep throughout the world" he made his life work. He never took to himself any special credit for what he accom- TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 269 plished; it was his love of mankind, especially the boys and the girls, that led him to devote his life to their service. The story may be simply told but none can measure the unending influence that he exerted. At Germantown, Ohio, John E. Gunckel was born August 14, 1846. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Gunckel, were of a pioneer family of that community. Comparatively little is known concerning them, but throughout his life Mr. Gunckel manifested the utmost reverence for his mother. On one occasion, taking something from his pocket, he said to the friend who was with him : "Do you know what that is?" The answer came, "It looks like an acorn," and he replied : "It is—an acorn fallen from an oak tree which guards my mother's grave. On the anniversary of her death I go and sit there and there is a strength and comfort and guidance from that visit. And I have an intangible something in this acorn which I picked up from among the grass which covers the mound over my mother." It was a marvelous tribute to that beloved mother, to whom Mr. Gunckel always acknowledged his indebtedness for her wise, kindly and loving training. His youth passed as did that of most boys of the period. He attended the public schools and supplemented his academic course by three years' study in Oberlin College. There was nothing to herald his entrance into Toledo and the city scarcely recognized that she was receiving one of the nation's distinguished sons. He was not quite thirty years of age when he took up his abode in this city, where for a time he engaged in the real estate business. His interest in railroad affairs, however, led him eventually to accept the position of local ticket agent for the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad and some time afterward he was advanced to the position of traveling passenger agent, while later he became passenger agent and thus for more than twenty years represented the Lake Shore. At various times in his life opportunities came to him whereby he might have attained notable success as measured by the financial standard, but these he put aside for the benefit of the work in which he was so deeply interested. Early in life his affections centered on the newsboys, or the boys of the street, as he called them, and in the '90s he gathered one hundred of the roughest and most 270 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY unkempt street urchins, mostly newspaper venders, about him at a Christmas dinner and organized the Toledo Newsboys' Association. At the time of his death its past and present membership in Toledo had numbered more than ten thousand and from their ranks came some of the most successful and prominent business men of the city. While he was still serving the railroad company his office was daily visited by many of the street urchins, who came to him for assistance, for advice or ofttimes just for the pleasant greeting which they were always sure to receive. Mr. Gunckel believed in the good in every boy and girl and he taught them to play square, to live clean, to be honest, to respect the rights of others and to love their country. He did this not by teaching or by preaching but by the right word at the opportune moment; and all this was based upon the keenest sympathy and interest for these children who were forced early to start out in life and early bumped up against the hardships and the ofttimes cruel conditions which life imposes. Year by year his work expanded until it became nation-wide, and six years prior to his demise his Toledo friends, recognizing the great value of the movement which he had instituted and which transformed the lawless newsboy into a self-respecting citizen, erected the splendid Newsboys' building on Superior street at a cost of one hundred thousand dollars. Business men contributed generously to the project, which was also aided by school children and even the pennies that the newsboys themselves had earned. This is the only building of the kind in the world and it is the visible evidence of the devotion of the man to what was his real life work. From the beginning of the movement Mr. Gunckel was president of the Newsboys' Association and about 1909 the trustees of the association prevailed upon him to give up his railroad position and devote all of his life to work among the "boys of the street." He was then made life president of the Toledo Newsboys' Association and he was also chosen life president of the National Newsboys' Association, which he was instrumental in organizing at the time of the World's Fair in St. Louis in 1904. The railroad which he had represented offered to retain him on the pay roll of the New York Central Lines, with TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 271 the privilege of devoting all of his time to his work among the newsboys, but this generous offer he declined. On various occasions political parties would have elected him to office and more than once might he have become a candidate for mayor, but he would not allow outside interests to turn him from his continued service to the Newsboys' Association. He was, however, keenly interested in matters of citizenship and again and again lent his aid and cooperation to some project for the public good. Upon him almost every Toledo club conferred honorary membership and this man who never owned any marine craft more valuable than a rowboat was the promoter and the commodore of the Inter-Lake Yachting Association, holding the office in 1895. One of his successors in that position said of him : "The sailors of the present and the preceding generations knew him, most of them intimately, and in all those years his character has been a foundation stone and his loyalty a never failing support in the upbuilding of the best side of yachting. His presence or his written word were ever powerful and influential with all. He inspired the development of clean sport, true companionship and unselfish brotherhood among yachtsmen wherever and whenever he met with them." Mr. Gunckel was married in 1878 to Miss Alice Brazel of Chicago, Illinois, and they became the parents of a son, William H., now vice president of the Security Savings & Trust Company. Mrs. Gunckel always shared, her husband's deep interest in his work for the uplift of the boys and girls of the land and in fact theirs was the close comradeship of interests, of activities and of love. Both Mr. and Mrs. Gunckel held membership in the Congregational church and he was a Rotarian and for thirty years was secretary of the Edgewater Club, which elected him secretary for life two years before he passed on. From his schoolboy days when he fished in the creek near his home he was always interested in angling and Ten-Mile creek or Crystal Lake offered him his best sport. He wrote various fish stories which were published in leading magazines and sporting journals throughout the country and were read by thousands. Following his retirement from his railroad position Mr. 272 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY Gunckel devoted his entire attention to his work among the newsboys not only of Toledo but of the entire country. "Who saw, in every boy, a man Of worth and purpose, like God's plan, And said to him : 'Do right—you can !' John Gunckel." wrote one who knew him well. It might be said of him in his boyhood, as it was of the Master of old : "He grew in knowledge and stature and in the love of God and man." Such a work as John Gunckel accomplished does not spring at once into full being; it is a matter of growth, and in his own character development were the seeds of his great service. He met the newsboys on their own plane—not one of superiority—and he led them along lines which they could discern. They followed him because of their belief in him and their greeting to him, following his injunction, was "Hello, Gunck." He extended the work of the Newsboys' Association by organizing the Newsboys' Band, the Newsboys' Cadets and finally organized the girls of the community in the Newsboys' Sisters Auxiliary. When his railroad activities no longer claimed a part of his attention he went throughout the country lecturing and his theme was always the boy of the street. He made large money in this way but the entire sum was given over to his work. He also wrote largely, one of his most widely read works being published under the title of "Boyville," the story of the Toledo Newsboys' Association. Other of his writings included "The Story of the Acorn" and still another was entitled "The Lotus Flower," the expression of his love for the beautiful blossoms which he frequently saw in Michigan during their blooming season. John E. Gunckel passed on August 16, 1915, and fittingly in keeping with his life work was the fact that all of the central section and one side of the great auditorium in the Newsboys' building was filled with newsboys, while the other section of the main floor was occupied by the sisters of the boys. He had held that the world is big enough for Christian and Jew and pagan and among those who followed him to the tomb were boys and girls of every nationality and creed. TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 273 Touching indeed were the tributes paid him by "his children" —the single syringa blossom of a little colored girl and a replica in roses of his Newsboys' Association badge from Joseph Scheppert, known as the "original newsboy," together with the gorgeous floral pieces that came from personal friends and prominent business men, a number of whom had been among his original band of newsboys. At the funeral service Aaron B. Cohn, an ex-newsboy and member of the Young Men's Hebrew Association said: "Moral uplift comes to us, not through abstract, but through human agencies. Such was John E. Gunckel in the service of the newsboys. The work in Toledo has grown and progressed until now the newsboy movement belongs in the heart of the nation. If you could have seen John Gunckel with his arms around Johnny, Tony, Mickey and Sammy, you would have some idea why Gunckel was loved by these boys. John E. Gunckel had the vision of service. Hundreds of newsboys of both yesterday and today are saying : `Gunck, you have helped me to be honest and on the square, to be a man and a better citizen.' The newsboys of the entire country are immeasurably poorer because John E. Gunckel is no longer with us." "John E. Gunckel was great in three things—faith, love and unselfish service," said Dr. Samuel Charles Black of the Presbyterian church. 'He believed in God in an age of doubt, and God's church in an age of criticism. To his boys he always said : 'Safety first, boys; go to church.' He was great in love. Toward everybody in the world he had the father heart, and there was always room in John Gunckel's heart for another boy or girl, no matter how large his 'family' grew . . . . John Gunckel was great in unselfish service. He believed that the great Father projected no insignificant lives, no failures. He looked into the future and saw the boy grown to manhood, and the girl to womanhood. Because John Gunckel lived, and loved, and had faith in God, ten thousand boys and girls, and coming men and women, shall rise to call him blessed. Let us not say that he is dead, but that he is translated. I cannot feel that God would have taken him away from us, but that he had some greater service for him in heaven." The Rev. Ernest Bourner Allen said : " 'There was a 18-VOL. 4 274 - STORY OF TIE MAUMEE VALLEY man came from God, whose name was John.' Just as truly as we believe that great prophet was divinely commissioned for his task, so do we believe that John Gunckel was raised to fill his unique and world-wide work. He was the pioneer of a new day. John Gunckel had an unlimited capacity for friendship. He was a knightly Christian gentleman, intent on helping every boy and girl to live a life of love and service. To live in hearts we leave behind us is not to die." Grace Margaret Wilson wrote : "John Gunckel built up in this country an institution that shall never die. He started a movement of helpfulness and friendliness toward the little street boys that shall spread, in ever-widening circles, until it is lost in the incalculable uplift of the human race. `Gunck' is gone—but the great work of his life shall go marching on. At least two generations of 'boys' bless the .name of John Gunckel today. For some of those who knew his earliest befriending are men now, and a new army of street urchins has swept in to take their places in the great Newsboys' Association that John Gunckel founded. The tender loyalty of the old and the enthusiastic worship of the new are blended, today, in a country-wide tribute of honor to the man who befriended boyhood. In the boy-mind, `Gunck' stands for honesty, for courtesy, for kindness, for chivalry toward the weaker, for true manliness, for cleanness of mind and body. For these things the boys' friend has taught, both by precept and example. What John Gunckel has done for the boyhood of the land can never be estimated. He was a friend to the friendless, a champion of the despised and outcast. He saved the boys by believing in them and appealing to their honor. He won their love by a kindliness that never patronized, was able to help them by meeting them on equal terms, and inspired them by taking the stand that 'there are no bad boys.' Because he had never lost the spirit of boyhood, he was able to make men of them. By old as well as young John Gunckel was beloved. His keen sense of humor and fine good-fellowship made him welcome wherever he went. His sterling qualities of character won him friends on every side." From far and near came expressions of the love and honor and great appreciation of his life work that were entertained for John E. Gunckel by all who knew him. In The Rotarian TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 275 appeared the following : "This genial-hearted man, kindly and sunny in his disposition, typified by his entire life the doctrine of Rotary. Imprinted in large letters on the standard he carried was the one word OTHERS. With a vision so broad and a heart so bounding over with love for everyone, he was able to see the possibilities even in the boy of the streets; the tough,' as some folks used to call them. He gathered them together under his all-powerful loving nature and taught them how to teach themselves, the greatest lesson that life has to bestow. . . . Let no tears be shed for this man. Let no dark garb of mourning break in on the sunshine and smiles that the memory of his life inspires. Let us think of him always with that cheery smile he always wore as he waved to the kid in rags who yelled with lusty lungs from across the street, 'Hello, Gunck.' Rather let us all who are better men for having felt something of the power of this life be given the service of others, make it possible that this wonderful work for the neglected boys shall go on year after year with increasing success." Among the countless number of resolutions passed by different organizations was that of the United National Association of Postoffice Clerks, containing the following: "Single-handed , this warm-blooded, whole-souled man, seeing the handicap newsboys were laboring under, and being firmly convinced that if given an opportunity the boys of the streets would develop into useful citizens; with nothing but his love and kindness for assets he silently launched a campaign to teach these misguided boys the value of honesty and clean-living. Because of his exercise of unerring judgment and impartial treatment to the cripples, to all nationalities, creeds and colors, the boys soon began to see that John Gunckel was their friend and accepted his advice as law; so that the neat, industrious, courteous and honest newsboy has replaced the swaggering, swearing, ragged and dishonest street paper merchant of a few years ago. The self-respect taught the newsboys is not limited to their class. Other boys have learned to take pride in their work and themselves. The advantages derived from the teachings of John Gunckel have extended to every part of the globe where civilization has set her stamp. His untiring efforts have brought fame to To- 276 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY ledo, and his name and work will be remembered and will bear fruit when all other philanthropists and their work are forgotten." Equally appreciative were the words of the First Congregational church, the Young Men's Christian Association, the Lucas County Sunday School Association, the Knights of Pythias, the Toledo Zoological Association and hundreds of other organizations and from countless friends. John N. Mockett said : "He was a father to the fatherless and bestowed upon the flotsam and jetsam of the human race, a mother's loving care. He gathered to his fold the little lambs of the slums, and like a true disciple of the Carpenter's Son, exhorted them to follow in his footsteps. The love of children with him was a divine passion, his great heart beat in sympathy with every little outcast of the earth; there was no touch or taint of malice in his nature; he was kind to all. Loving, gentle, patient, oblivious of self, he gave his time, thought, talent and energy to the betterment of others. Thousands of poor boys will mourn his loss and miss his genial smile, for like the sun he shone on all alike; they have lost a friend indeed, and many a silent tear will speak the anguish of their grief. We all know what his life has been, how well he wrought, what he has achieved; his deeds have built a monument more enduring than storied urn or animated bust, in the hearts of thousands. I have known him for more than twenty years, and have never heard him spoken of except in words of praise; in parting from this gentle soul, I can think of no more fitting words to breathe than those once uttered above the bier of a friend by Ingersoll : 'Farewell! If this is the end, then you have left to us the sacred memory of a noble life. If this is not the end, there is no world in which you, my friend, will not be loved and welcomed. Farewell !' " Jefferson D. Robinson, president of the Toledo Newsboys' Association, wrote : " 'A friend in need is a friend indeed.' The life of John E. Gunckel finds expression in a larger degree in those words. Ever thinking of and doing for others was his daily task, and how beautiful the love in his great heart flowed towards those whom the fortunes of life denied but saw opportunities for advancement—the boys of our streets—and to those who were buffeted the most—who were TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 277 having the hardest contest in the battle of life—his sympathy was the strongest for. The boy who was bad at times because he did not have a chance to see the other side, was his, particular choice, and around him he threw that great love which was of him as of few other men. He uplifted an army of young men scattered this country over, who are today living better and more useful lives because of what John E. Gunckel gave them of himself. Working for and following that great Exempler he lived that life which is best expressed : 'Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my little ones, ye have done it unto me.' " Mr. Gunckel's attitude toward the great questions which he was trying to solve is perhaps best told in his own words in his story of "Boyville." "The problem of the boy is a great one, and the more we have to do with his life upon the street the greater the task of solution becomes. It is said that two great factors make the sum of human life—heredity and environment. We are told that if you will gather up soil from the Arctic regions and carry it on a steamer southward you will soon see it covered with vegetation. If the soil of the tropics is taken to the frozen regions of Franz Joseph Land, it will become barren. The soil of both regions is heredity, but the difference of environment greatly modifies the result. There are in all of us hereditary tendencies to both vice and virtue, and under favorable surroundings these tendencies will either be dormant or developed." In its editorial comment one of the local papers said : "The biggest and best men of the nation were Gunckel's friends, and his work was known and commended by people in all walks, from the president down to the humblest citizen. . . . Self-government was the basis of the success of the Toledo Newsboys' Association—the most successful organization of its kind in the world. And it was not always the best boys that Gunckel selected as his cabinet. His experience taught him that if given a responsible duty to perform, the worst boy was likely to become the best of the lot, and so it was by this method that many an unpromising lad was made an exemplary and useful citizen. As Gunckel loved his boys, so they loved him, and for the most part they affectionately referred to him as `Gunck.' Few men have the control of a 278 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY naturally turbulent assemblage of street boys that was possessed by Gunckel. A smile and the simple raising of his hand were all that were necessary to silence an audience of more than one thousand newsboys at the Sunday afternoon meetings of the association." Men eminent in the nation in every walk of life and in foreign countries as well expressed their deep regret at the passing of John Gunckel and the leading papers and periodicals of the country bore testimony to the great life work of this honored man, whose entire career can perhaps best be summed up in the words of one who wrote : "He was a man of unique and spiritual character. To know him was an education. His greeting was an inspiration, his smile a benediction. The influence of his great work will go on through the ages; such a man can never die. It is given to but few men to leave a heritage such as was his, for is it not written, 'By their works ye shall know them.' " A few years prior to his death Mr. Gunckel brought the first lotus seeds from the valley of the Nile to Toledo. These he planted in streams near the city where they have thrived, and, as a coincidence, are in full bloom the middle of August and on the anniversary of the birth of Mr. Gunckel. Every year since his death close friends and relatives have decorated his grave with blossoms of the lotus, and the increasing numbers that desired to share in this beautiful annual tribute furnished the idea of making a public observance of this event. Accordingly, in 1929, Mayor William T. Jackson issued an official proclamation setting aside August 14th as "Lotus Day," as follows : "Whereas the lotus is truly symbolic of Toledo—the `Lotus City' and "Whereas John E. Gunckel brought the first lotus from the Nile in Egypt to Toledo and planted it here, and "Whereas August 14 marks the day of the birth of one of the nation's real benefactors, the father of the Newsboys' Association idea, which transformed a crop of street merchants into a harvest of useful citizens in every city of this country, and "Whereas John E. Gunckel was Toledo's leading citizen and the lotus his favorite flower—for all of these reasons TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 279 then as mayor of Toledo, I, William T. Jackson, declare August 14 as LOTUS DAY and urge all citizens to observe the occasion by attendance at the great stone shrine in Wood-lawn cemetery, marking the last resting place of John E. Gunckel." In referring to this event, the Toledo Blade, in an editorial under the caption, "His Influence Lives," said in part: "Among the members of Toledo civic organizations which will pay affectionate public tribute to the memory of John E. Gunckel on the fourteenth anniversary of his death are some who owe health, character, success and happiness to this pioneer organizer of welfare work for neglected newsboys. That which Mr. Gunckel began under difficulties and in a small way in Toledo is carried on by other willing, competent and loving hands. The organization he founded has been enlarged. It contributes importantly to the moral, mental and physical development of underprivileged youth. It provides for their wholesome instruction and practical technical training. It is a great influence in the prevention of vice and crime in the community. It flowers like the lotus which this friend of the boys so much admired. If it were possible to set down in order the names of the most useful and influential men who have lived fn Toledo, John Gunckel's might lead the list." At sundown on Lotus Day a mantle of lotus blossoms gathered by newsboys from the beds planted by Mr. Gunckel was placed on his grave, marked by a stone shrine built by the newsboys in memory of the man "whose love enveloped all the boyhood of Toledo," as was expressed by one of the speakers on this impressive occasion. AMOS FRANKLIN HOFFMAN, D. D. S. Dr. Amos F. Hoffman is a recent addition to the ranks of the dental profession in Toledo, but has already demonstrated his technical skill and all-round efficiency as a practitioner. He was born at Glandorf, Ohio, on the 18th day of April, 1903, and is a son of William and Veronica (Halker) Hoffman, of whom further mention is made in the sketch of Dr. Edward F. Hoffman, on another page of this work, 280 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY Dr. Amos F. Hoffman received a good preliminary education, graduating from the Glandorf and Ottawa high schools, after which he attended Toledo University two years. He then entered the dental department of Western Reserve University at Cleveland, from which he was graduated with the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in June, 1929. He then became associated in practice with his brothers, Drs. Edward F. and Louis F. Hoffman, at 3101 ½ Cherry street, Toledo, of which building the three brothers occupy the entire second floor. Here they have a complete equipment of every appliance pertaining to the modern practice of dentistry, including an up-to-date X-ray machine, and they are widely known as highly skilled and trustworthy operators, while their business methods are such as have gained for them the confidence of the public. Dr. Amos F. Hoffman is a member of the local and supreme chapters of the Xi Psi Phi college fraternity, having been secretary of the local chapter for two years and a delegate to the national convention at Detroit in 1928. As a mark of appreciation, the supreme chapter voted him a diamond studded arrow to be attached to his fraternity pin. Dr. Hoffman is a young man of excellent moral character, high ideals and is a good scholar and dental technician. He possesses a good commercial training and is a proficient pianist and violinist. He is a member of St. John's Roman Catholic church at Glandorf. RUSSELL H. KEAR One of Upper Sandusky's most successful young lawyers is Russell H. Kear, of the firm of Kear & Creger, with offices at 114 ½ South Sandusky avenue. He was born in Wharton, Wyandot county, in 1901 and is a son of Seth G. and Elizabeth (Wright) Kear. The father, who still resides at Wharton, followed farming for many years but is now engaged in the elevator business there. He is a republican in politics and has long been active in local public affairs. Russell H. Kear attended the public schools of Wharton, graduating from high school in 1920, and then attended Ohio TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 283 State University. He prepared for his life work in the law department of Ohio Northern University, from which he was graduated in 1926 and was admitted to the bar in that same year. He entered upon the practice of hiprofession in North Sandusky, in jipartnership with David Creger, under the firm name of Kear & Creger, and they have gained recognition as a strong and dependable law firm. Mr. Kear possesses a comprehensive knowledge of the law, adheres closely to the noblest traditions and ethics of the legal profession and has attained a high place in public esteem. Mr. Kear is a republican in his political views and since attaining his majority has taken an active interest in local public affairs. He now represents Wyandot county in the state legislature, being its youngest member in 1927, and he is a member of a number of important committees. He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity of Ohio Northern University, and the Evergreen Golf Club. He maintains professional affiliation with the Wyandot County Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Association. He possesses a fine personality; is cordial in manner and has a large circle of friends throughout this county. MARTIN T. HODSON Martin T. Hodson, who has long been numbered among the leading and influential citizens of Pioneer, where he has made his home from the days of its earliest settlement, is the president of the Pioneer Banking Company, is a member of the drug and grocery firm of M. T. Hodson & Son and is the owner of a tract of farm land comprising about one hundred and ninety acres. The period of his identification with mercantile interests at Pioneer covers fifty-six years, while his connection with the banking business extends over the past forty-five years. He is a native son of Williams county, Ohio, within the borders of which he has always resided, his birth having occurred at Bridgewater in 1855. His parents were Thomas and Elizabeth Hodson, of English descent, who came to Williams county from Richland county, Ohio, in 284 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY 1853. The father, an attorney by profession, was a representative of the early bench and bar who devoted this attention to agricultural pursuits throughout his active career. He maintained an independent attitude in politics. Martin T. Hodson pursued his education as a public school pupil and when a youth of fifteen began clerking in the drug store of H. C. Urmbenhaur at Pioneer, being thus employed from 1870 until 1873. He then joined his father in the conduct of the Hodson & Son Drug Company and about 1876 a line of groceries was added to their stock. Martin T. Hodson conducted the enterprise alone after 1880 but is now associated in its conduct with his son, Fred M. Hodson, under the firm style of M. T. Hodson & Son. In the year 1884 he opened the financial institution now known as the Pioneer Banking Company and after a decade of independent control associated himself with Dr. George Young and J. A. Grant in a partnership relation that was maintained until 1913. The institution was then incorporated as a state bank and has thus been operated to the present time, having a capitalization of twenty-five thousand dollars; present surplus of twelve thousand dollars, and five thousand dollars undivided profits. Its present officers are as follows : M. T. Hodson, president; H. 0. Higley, vice president; and L. H. Bollinger, cashier. Aside from the interests above indicated Mr. Hodson also operated a large creamery for seventeen years, shipping butter and eggs and utilizing fourteen teams constantly. He likewise supervises his farming interests, being the owner of about one hundred and ninety acres of rich and productive land. Moreover, he erected the building and still looks after the affairs of the Pioneer Elevator Company, which is a stock company. Though now seventy-three years of age, he is still an active factor in the world's work and enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the foremost and highly esteemed citizens of his community. Mr. Hodson has been twice married. His first wife, who bore the maiden name of Emma D. Hodson and who long figured actively in church and social work, passed away April 12, 1923, leaving a son, Fred M., born in 1882. The latter is a graduate of the Ohio Northern University at Ada and is now associated with his father in the drug and grocery busi- TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 285 ness. When only twenty-three years of age he had attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite in the Masonic fraternity. In early manhood he married Miss Grace Sibley and they are the parents of two daughters, Katherine and Phyllis. Martin T. Hodson was married a second time, in January, 1925, when Miss Ada E. Doolittle, a music teacher of Pioneer, Ohio, became his wife. She has rendered effective service to church and social organizations of the community and is particularly prominent in music circles. Mr. Hodson has always manifested a lively interest in civic affairs and is a stanch supporter of the republican party. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church of Pioneer, of which he is a trustee. Because of his long and useful career, his kindly and courteous manner, and his genuine worth as a man, he commands the admiration and esteem of all who know him and stands as one of the honored citizens of Williams county. HENRY ERNST BURMANN Henry Ernst Burmann, regarded as one of the representative citizens of Elmore, where he is engaged in the undertaking business, was born in Woodville, Ohio, September 4, 1877, a son of George A. and Elizabeth Burmann, who are yet living in Woodville. The family is of German lineage. The father has followed the oil business for many years. He gives his political support to the democratic party and attends the Lutheran church. Henry E. Burmann, after attending the Woodville schools, entered the Capital City University at Columbus, Ohio, where he pursued a scientific course. He afterward became a student in the Chicago College of Embalming and was graduated in 1900. He then came to Elmore, where he purchased the undertaking business of Henry Ickes, and has since continued in this line. He now has a well appointed undertaking establishment and at the same time is engaged in the sale of furniture, carrying a complete line of house furnishings, The latest productions of American factories are found in his store, while in the funeral department he has the most 286 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY complete and modern equipment for the care of the dead. His laudable ambition and his spirit of enterprise are further indicated in the fact that he is connected with the First National Bank as a director and is secretary and treasurer of the firm of Weis Brothers & Burmann, contractors, who specialize largely in the building of roads. In 1901 Mr. Burmann married Miss Florence Grant, of Gibsonburg, Ohio, and their children are : Mrs. Harry Redman, of Elmore; Albert H., an undertaker of Toledo and a member of the firm of Kruse & Burmann; and Kathryn, the wife of Stanley Schroeder, of Pemberville, Ohio. In 1927 Mr. Burmann married Miss Lucy Heplar, of Tiffin, Ohio, who takes a very active part in church and community affairs, cooperating in various interests of civic worth. She votes with the republican party, while Mr. Burmann is a supporter of the democratic party. His influence can always be counted upon to further any project or measure for the general good, and his attitude on questions of vital worth is always that of the public-spirited citizen. Fraternally he is a Mason and has taken the degrees of both the York and Scottish Rites. His religious faith is that of the Evangelical church and in its teachings he finds the basic principles of his life, the activities of which have been so directed as to win for him the respect and confidence of all. In business matters he has shown marked determination and enterprise, and in his vocabulary there is no such word as fail. HIRAM EMORY HALL Beginning his career as a public school teacher when a young man, Hiram Emory Hall has devoted his life to educational work. From 1914 to 1929 he has been superintendent of the schools of Wood county, which position he still holds. Mr. Hall was born in Liberty township, Wood county, February 4, 1874, a son of Lewis R. and Isabelle L. Hall, natives of Oswego County, New York. His father, Lewis R. Hall, and five older brothers served in the Union army during the Civil war. Both of his great-grandfathers served TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 287 in the Revolutionary war. His great-grandfather Hall was killed later by Indians on the frontier of New York state. After the Civil war, Mr. Hall's parents left New York state and established their home in Toledo and later removed to Wood county, where they spent the remainder of their lives. H. E. Hall attended the public schools of his native county and later completed the classical course in the Western Ohio Normal School at Middlepoint. He was also a student at Lebanon University and Wooster University and later went to New York city, where he attended Columbia University, which conferred upon him the B. S. degree in 1917 and the M. A. degree in 1927. Mr. Hall taught in rural schools from 1894 to 1897 and afterward was superintendent of schools in Rudolph, Jerry City, Cygnet, Liberty township, Wayne and Genoa, Ohio. He taught in the Wooster University summer school several terms and has also been an instructor in the State Teachers College at Bowling Green during the summer sessions. In 1914 he was chosen superintendent of schools of Wood County and his long retention in the office is an eloquent testimonial to the quality of his service and the appreciation of his exceptionally fine work. An earnest and untiring student and a deep thinker, he has contributed toward the progress of his profession by writing a number of valuable articles on education, which have been featured in the Journal of Educational Methods, the American School Board Journal, the Journal of Rural Education and other well known publications of that character. On December 25, 1901, Mr. Hall was married at Bradner, Ohio, to Miss Jennie E. Kirk, who was born in Utica, Pennsylvania, September 2, 1876. Mrs. Hall was formerly an instructor in the public schools and a teacher of public speaking. Her parents were Freeman and Nancy Kirk, also natives of Pennsylvania. The father was one of the gallant defenders of the Union cause during the Civil war and while a resident of Bradner he was called to the office of mayor, which he filled with ability for a number of years. To Mr. and Mrs. Hall were born two children ; Frances Willard, who died in infancy; and G. Stanley. The son was graduated 288 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY from the Bowling Green high school and attended Oberlin College. At Brooksfield, Texas, he enlisted in the aviation corps of the United States Army and while in the service of his country was killed in an aeroplane accident which occurred Saturday, May 19, 1923. He was a young man of great promise and his untimely death brought deep sorrow to his parents and many friends. Mr. Hall gives his political support to the republican party and is affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church. His wife adheres to the same faith and belongs to various church societies in Bowling Green and also to the Chautauqua Club. Along fraternal lines he is connected with Crystal Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, and the Council at Bowling Green. He belongs to the Kiwanis Club of Bowling Green, is an honorary member of the Pi Gamma Mu Scholarship Society and a life member of the National Education Association. Mr. Hall is also identified with the National Association of Teachers Colleges, the educational council of the Ohio Education Association and other social and professional organizations. Aspiring to a high level of accomplishment, he has gained distinction in his chosen vocation, and measured by the standard of service, his career has been notably successful. RALPH EDWARD BOICE, M. D. Dr. Ralph E. Boice, engaged in the practice of medicine at 230 Michigan avenue, is one of Toledo's most highly esteemed physicians and enjoys a large practice. He was born in this city on the 5th of February, 1896, and is a son of Warren and Harriet (Watters) Boice. The Boice family has been established in this country since 1609, the emigrant ancestor landing at Jamestown, New York, his party being the only one to land in that year. The Doctor's great-great-grandfather, Abraham Boice, was a lifelong resident of New York state. He was the father of John Boice, a native of New York state and contractor and builder, who died in Toledo, Ohio. He married a Miss Williams, who was born in Pennsylvania and died in that state, and they became the TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 289 parents of Reed V. Boice. The last named was born in Pennsylvania and died in Toledo. In early life he was engaged in contracting and building, but later became president of the Merchants National Bank. He was a veteran of the Civil war, in which he served as a captain in the Fifth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. He married Lois Ann Smith, who was born in Massachusetts and died in Toledo. They were the parents of Warren Boice, the father of Dr. Boice. He was born in Toledo, September 19, 1859, and has always lived in this city, where he has followed the profession of optometry. He is a republican in politics. His wife was born in Toledo, October 1, 1865, and is a daughter of Thomas and Mary (O'Brien) Watters, both of whom were born in Ireland and died in Toledo, where Mr. Watters was for many years engaged in the lumber business. Mrs. Boice's paternal grandfather, Charles LaStrange Watters, a sea trader, was born in Ireland and died in Toronto, Canada. Ralph E. Boice was graduated from the Toledo high school in 1914 and then entered the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1918, and that of Doctor of Medicine in 1920. He served as interne at the University of Michigan two years, after which he was an instructor in the medical school of that institution. On July 1, 1923, Dr. Boice came to Toledo and entered upon the active practice of his profession, in which he limits his work to diseases of the eye. He is regarded as an expert in his special field of practice and has met with success, patients coming to him from distant points. The Doctor is a member of the Academy of Medicine of Toledo and Lucas county, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association. On April 15, 1926, in Toledo, Dr. Boice was united in marriage to Miss Florence Orwig, a native of this city and a daughter of George B. and Mary (Eldridge) Orwig, the former of whom is engaged in the practice of law in Toledo. The mother is deceased. Mrs. Boice is a graduate of the Toledo high school and was also graduated from the University of Michigan with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1918, after which she taught school prior to her marriage. She is a member of the Women's Club of Toledo. Dr. and 19-VOL. 4 290 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY Mrs. Boice have two children : Harriet Smith, born April 19, 1927; and Mary Laughlin, born January 10, 1929. Dr. Boice is a member of Toledo Lodge, No. 144, F. & A. M.; Toledo Lodge, No. 53, B. P. 0. E. ; the Phi Beta Pi and Alpha Omega Alpha fraternities, the University Club and the Toledo Yacht Club. He and his wife hold membership in Trinity Protestant Episcopal church. The Doctor was a member of the Medical Reserve Corps during the World war. He is honoring his profession by the high quality of service which he is rendering and by his earnest and sincere life. HIRAM MILLER A prominent factor in the building operations of Toledo for many years has been Hiram Miller, who as a contractor and builder has erected many of the leading factory buildings and homes of this city. He was born in Hooversville, Somerset county, Pennsylvania, on the 9th of October, 1866, and is a son of John and Barbara Miller, both of whom are deceased. The father was a carpenter and contractor all his life and built many of the most substantial residences and barns in his locality. To him and his wife were born three children, namely: Hiram, of this review; and Emma, the wife of William Nesbit, and Ella, the wife of William Loer, both of whom reside in Hooversville. Hiram Miller acquired his education in the public schools of his home town and learned the carpenter trade under his father in young manhood. He has followed that line of work continuously to the present time and is regarded as an expert builder. He is the owner of a modern planing mill, equipped with the best machinery, and is prepared to successfully handle any contract in the building line. He has recently been awarded the contract for the building of the Toledo ice cream factory, and among the well known structures erected by him are the Post Office garage and the Commercial building. On May 10, 1893, Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss Mary Tause, who is of Scotch descent, and to them have TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 291 been born two children, Gordon and Rose. Gordon, who is associated with his father in the building business, was married, May 17, 1929, to Miss Mary Sanders, of Toledo. Rose was graduated from Ohio State University, in which she majored in journalism, and for several years she has taught history in the Gunckel high school of Toledo. Mr. Miller is a stanch supporter of the republican party, and he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. They give their support to all worthy causes and are numbered among the steady and reliable citizens of Toledo. Their residence is at 408 Machen street. H. H. SHERER One of the most effective forces for the promotion of the material, civic and moral welfare of a community is the press, the influence of which is at least equal, if not superior, to that of any other agency. Northwestern Ohio has been fortunate in the character of its newspapers, one of the leaders of which is the Wood County Republican, published by H. H. Sherer at Bowling Green, and which, editorially and typographically, is a credit to the community which it serves. H. H. Sherer was born near Whitehouse, Lucas county, Ohio, on the 6th of May, 1873, and is a son of Henry and Mary (Landis) Sherer. The family came to Wood county in 1876 and here the parents resided until death, the mother passing away in 1895 and the father in 1897. H. H. Sherer was educated in the public schools of Grand Rapids, Wood county, after which he had one year in the public school at Napoleon, Henry county. He then entered the employ of the Toledo Traction Company, with which corporation he remained until 1898, when he became the owner of a grocery and meat market at Waterville, which he conducted until 1902. He then entered the printing business, at which he worked until 1911, when he bought the Tontogany Times. He proved a successful newspaper man, conducting the Times until 1918, when, desiring a wider field of effort, he came to Bowling Green and established the Wood County Republican, which he now issues as a weekly. He 292 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY has been painstaking in his efforts to make the Republican a real newspaper and the service which he has given has been appreciated by the people of the county, the circulation of the paper having steadily grown until he now issues twenty-three hundred copies weekly. Mr. Sherer also maintains one of the best equipped printing plants in Northwestern Ohio, the machinery and material of which is new and up-to-date, and he is doing a large commercial printing business. Mr. Sherer was united in marriage to Miss Mary Helder, of Lucas county, Ohio, and they are the parents of three children, Glenn, Jean and Marshall. The sons Glenn and Marshall are associated with him in his printing business, are experts in the trade, are of high standing in the business circles of Bowling Green and prominent among the younger business generation of the community. Mr. Sherer is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and he and his wife belong to the Presbyterian church. Through the columns of his paper and personally, Mr. Sherer gives wholehearted support to those things which count most in the life of the community and just as earnestly opposes those influences which are inimical to the public welfare. Because of his sterling character, consistent life and friendly manner, he has won and retains a warm place in the hearts of the people of his community and is regarded as one of its best citizens. FREDERICK H. GRANTHEN Frederick H. Granthen, president of Granthen-Van Wormer, Inc., dealers in men's clothing, is a recognized leader in mercantile circles of Toledo, his native city. He was born November 29, 1885, a son of Charles and Louise (Lange) Granthen, who were natives of Germany. They were married in that country and came to the United States early in the '80s, settling in Toledo. The father engaged in contracting and became one of the city's substantial business men. He was a member of the Lutheran church and gave his political support to the republican party. His family comprised three sons and a daughter and two of the children TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 293 have passed away. Those who survive are Frederick H. ; and Emil W., a resident of Detroit, Michigan. Frederick H. Granthen was educated in the public schools of Toledo and when a boy of thirteen became a wage earner, working for a grocer during vacation periods. His first regular employment was with the John Mockett Company, pioneer clothiers, with whom he spent thirteen years. He started at a salary of two and a half dollars per week and soon proved his worth to the firm. Mr. Granthen advanced through the various departments and acquired a detailed knowledge of the business. From 1911 until 1923 he was connected with the E. L. Thornberry Company, acting as general manager and buyer of merchandise, and in March of the latter year embarked in business in partnership with Charles F. Kulp under the name of the Granthen-Kulp Company, Inc. Later the junior member of the firm retired and in 1928 the present style of Granthen-Van Wormer, Inc., was adopted. They specialize in men's clothing and theirs is regarded as one of the finest establishments of the kind in the city. The business started at No. 418 Adams street and has always been conducted at this location. The firm handles the Langrock, Stratford and Stein-Bloch lines and has established a large and desirable clientele. Mr. Granthen is an enterprising merchant and thoroughly informed on matters pertaining to the clothing trade. Mr. Granthen married Miss Matilda Gloman, a native of Toledo and a daughter of Charles and Lena (Adams) Gloman, members of old and well known families of the city. Mr. and Mrs. Granthen have two children : Carlton F., who was born May 28, 1905; and Alice Marie, born April 27, 1909. The son was married June 4, 1927, to Miss Sigrid Blankenhagen, and they have a daughter, Carolyn Ann, who was born September 16, 1928. Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Granthen are earnest, helpful members of St. Paul's Lutheran church, and he is one of its deacons. He is a member of Rubicon Lodge, No. 237, F. & A. M.; Toledo Chapter, No. 161, R. A. M.; and Crafton M. Acklin Council, No. 127, R. & S. M., and is also identified with Toledo Lodge, No. 53, B. P. O. E., while his wife belongs to the Eastern Star. He is one of the progressive members 294 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY of the Chamber of Commerce and is also connected with the Exchange Club. In politics he is a republican, and his favorite sports are golf and fishing. Alert, energetic and purposeful, Mr. Granthen has made the most of his opportunities, and his individual qualities are such as have gained for him warm and enduring regard. EDWIN B. BARLOW, M. D. Dr. Edwin B. Barlow, a successful pediatrician, is widely and favorably known in Toledo, for he has practiced here for more than thirty years, and is a scion of one of the pioneer families of the state. He was born in Plain City, Madison county, Ohio, August 11, 1874, a son of Edmund Whitney and Lucinda A. (Kent) Barlow, both of English lineage. The American genealogy of the Barlows is traced to the year 1744, as recorded in an old Bible which has been in possession of members of the family since that time. The Doctor's grandfather, Edward Barlow, who was the first representative of the family in Ohio, settled at Sugar Run, Madison county, in 1804. Edward Whitney Barlow was born March 8, 1828, on the farm of his grandfather, Edward Barlow, who owned the land now occupied by the city of Montpelier, Vermont, but when a child came to Ohio. He was reared in Madison county and became a cabinetmaker at Plain City, specializing in furniture and caskets, which in those days were made entirely by hand and horsepower from treadmill. In 1888 he established a furniture factory in Urbana, Ohio, where he engaged in that line of business during the remainder of his life. At the outbreak of the Civil war he made five attempts to enlist, but each time was rejected owing to physical disability, and never ceased to regret his disbarment from service. An older brother was accepted and fought for the Union until the cessation of hostilities between the north and the south. Edmund W. Barlow attained the venerable age of ninety years, passing away in 1918. His wife was born in February, 1843, and died August 23, 1893, at the age of fifty years. Her forbears were early settlers of Vermont TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 297 and came to Ohio as pioneers of 1800. Mr. and Mrs. Barlow were the parents of four children, three sons and a daughter. The surviving children are : Edwin B..; and Elva,, the widow of James T. Sanders, a nationally known attorney of Miami, Florida. In 1892 Dr. Barlow was graduated from the Urbana high school and afterward devoted two years to the study of pharmacy, passing an examination before the state board and becoming a licensed pharmacist. He decided to follow the career of a physician and prepared for the profession in the Starling Medical College at Columbus, a branch of Ohio State University, winning the M. D. degree in March, 1897. While an interne in a private hospital from 1895 to 1897, he served under Drs. E. J. Wilson, T. W. Rankin, and C. S. and W. H. Hamilton in Mt. Carmel, thus gaining valuable experience in his profession, which he has followed continuously in Toledo since June, 1897. A recognized expert in the treatment of diseases of women and children, Dr. Barlow enjoys an extensive practice and is connected with the staff of Robinwood Hospital, where he has taught pediatrics for years, while formerly he was one of the surgeons in attendance at the Toledo Workhouse. On the 15th of March, 1900, Dr. Barlow was married in Kenton, Ohio, to Miss Della Gibson, a native of that place and a daughter of Claudius and Hannah (Eglin) Gibson. Dr. and Mrs. Barlow are the parents of a son, C. Gibson, who was born November 18, 1903, and married Miss Vera E. Hughes, a daughter of the late William E. Hughes, a prominent business man of Clyde, Ohio. C. Gibson Barlow furthered his education at the Shadyside Academy, country school, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was graduated from the Jessie Bonstelle School of Production at Detroit, Mich. He is now assistant branch manager of the Columbia Broadcasting Company at Chicago, Illinois. The Doctor's home is at 619 Winthrop avenue, Toledo, while his office is at 320 Ontario street. He is a consistent member of the Collingwood Avenue. Presbyterian church and casts his ballot for the candidates of the republican party. A thirty-second degree Mason, he is affiliated with Sanford Collins Lodge, No. 396, F. & A. M. ; Toledo Chapter, No. 161, 298 - STORY OF THE MAUMEE VALLEY R. A. M.; Toledo Council, No. 33, R. & S. M.; St. Omar Commandery, No. 59, K. T.; Valley of Toledo Consistory, A. & A. S. R.; and Zenobia Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S. For a considerable period he has been active in behalf of the Boy Scouts of America, being official examiner for the Toledo organization and the oldest member of its Court of Honor, while for fifteen years he has served on the council. Dr. Barlow is a Spanish war veteran and a member and surgeon of Egbert Camp. He is a pension examiner for the federal government, president of the United States Board of Pension Examiners and a member of the Lucas County and Ohio State Medical Societies and the American Medical Association. Of a mechanical turn of mind, he finds diversion in constructing radios, performing the work with considerable skill. A lover of good music, he has become an accomplished player of the violin and piano and shares his enjoyment of the art with Mrs. Barlow, who also possesses musical talent. She is a member of the Women's Club and figures prominently in the social life of Toledo. The Doctor is a physician of high standing and a broad-gauged man whose interests have ever been of that uplifting character which tend to advance the standards of citizenship and promote the intellectual, cultural and moral development of a community. ABDA CHARLES DOLPH Abda C. Dolph, president of the Sylvania Savings Bank Company, at Sylvania, Lucas county, has had many years of business experience and is regarded as one of his community's ablest and most substantial citizens. He was born in Monroe county, Michigan, March 2, 1863, and is a son of George P. and Lucy (Lewis) Dolph, the former of whom was a farmer by occupation. In 1885 he brought his family to Lucas county, Ohio, where he resided until his death, which occurred in 1921. His wife passed away in 1909. Abda C. Dolph received a public and high school education and from 1883 to 1895 managed the home farm, conducting it as an individual enterprise. In 1895 he moved TOLEDO AND THE SANDUSKY REGION - 299 to Sylvania and engaged in the undertaking business until 1920. He was a licensed embalmer and met with good success. In 1920 he sold the establishment to George Reeb, who still conducts it, and moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he was employed in an undertaking parlor until May, 1925, at which time he returned to Sylvania, where he has resided to the present time. Mr. Dolph became a stockholder in the Sylvania Savings Bank Company at the time of its organization in 1900 and in 1927 he became president of that institution. This bank, which possesses a modern equipment, has enjoyed a very prosperous history and in more recent years has made still greater advance, as may be seen from the following comparative figures : Capital, 1927, $25,000; 1929, $50,000; surplus, 1927, $21,800; 1929, $30,000; deposits now over $600,000. On November 29, 1883, Mr. Dolph was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Vincent, of Erie, Michigan. Politically, he supports the republican party and has long been active in civic affairs, having served as clerk of the board of education, and a member of the city council and served one term as mayor. He is a member of Sylvania Lodge, No. 287, F. & A. M. ; Toledo Consistory, A. A. S. R.; Zenobia Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. ; Toledo Commandery, K. T.; Ottawa Lake Lodge, No. 20, I. O. O. F., and Sylvania Chapter, No. 149, 0. E. S. He and his wife attend the Congregational church, in the work of which Mrs. Dolph has always taken an active and helpful part. Mr. Dolph has been a leader in movements calculated to promote the best interests of his community and is one of Sylvania's most public-spirited and influential citizens. His residence is at 5753 Phillips avenue. LAURENCE LEO NACHTRAB Among the "live wires" in the automobile trade in Toledo must be numbered Laurence L. Nachtrab, who has had many years of practical and successful experience in the sales end of the business and is now general sales manager for the Doan Motor Company. Mr. Nachtrab was born in Toledo, Ohio, on the 17th of March, 1883, a son of John and Jennie