(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) 1350 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Paul H. Karper, who is identified with the Ashland Floral Company, is a representative young business man of Ashland, and a veteran of the World War. He was born at Canton, Ohio, Aug. 20, 1894, the son of Gustavus A. and Helena M. (Kantzer) Karper. A complete sketch of Gustavus A. Karper appears elsewhere in this history. After his graduation from Ashland High School in 1913, Paul H. Karper entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brothers Company, with whom he was identified until 1917. In May, 1917, he enlisted in the U. S. Navy for service in the World War, and engaged in coast guard duty on the New England coast, also being stationed on submarine chasers between Gibraltar and Cuba. He was discharged from duty, July 10, 1919, and upon his return to Ashland became associated in business with his father. He later became a partner and is now manager of the company's downtown floral shop, which is located on West Main Street. In 1922 Mr. Karper married Mildred Irene Winbigler, of Ashland, the daughter of Ray and Sadie Winbigler. They have three children : Gretchen Ann, born June 2, 1923 ; Jack Edward, born March 8, 1925 ; and Ned W., born July 25, 1926. Mr. Karper belongs to the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Masonic Lodge, and B. P. 0. Elks. Dr. J. Allen Miller. As dean of Ashland College since 1906, Doctor Miller has won for himself the reputation of being one of the most prominent and efficient educators in the State of Ohio. He was born at Rossville, Indiana, Aug. 2, 1866, the son of William S. and Mary (Mohler) Miller. William S. Miller was born in Lehigh County, Pa., and his wife was a native of Lancaster County, Pa. Although he spent his boyhood on a farm Mr. Miller secured an unusually fine education, and was a teacher in the schools of Lehigh County until 1857, at which time he removed to Indiana and settled on a farm in Clinton County. He became a prosperous farmer and spent the remainder of his life there. He died in 1896 and his wife died in 1879. Both are buried at Rossville. They were the parents of five children, of whom J. Allen, the subject of this sketch was the oldest. Mr. and Mrs. Miller held membership in the German Baptist Church, in which he officiated as deacon. He was a Republican and filled numerous public offices in his community. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Miller were: 1. J. Allen, the subject of this sketch. 2. Sarah, the widow of Amos Cameron, lives at Rossville. 3. Rev. William, a retired HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1351 minister of the Brethren Church. 4. Charles, a farmer, lives in Clinton Township, Ind. 5. James, who died at the age of 21 years. The early life of J. Allen Miller was spent on his father's farm near Rossville, and he attended the district school. He was graduated from Ashland College in 1891 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and he subsequently prepared himself for the ministry. In 1891 he went to Elkhart, Ind., as pastor of the First Brethren Church, where he remained for a period of three years. Upon his return to Ashland in 1894 he was identified with the college for two years. The next two years he spent in study at Hiram College and the University of Chicago until 1898, when he was elected president of Ashland College. He performed the duties of that responsible office until 1906, and his services in that capacity have been invaluable to the institution. During his administration he raised an endowment of $70,000, and also installed the new college laboratory. It may be said that in every way he has rejuvenated the institution. Doctor Miller has served in the capacity of dean since 1906 and has enjoyed 36 years of service as a teacher in the college. In addition to attending to the duties of his office, Doctor Miller's excellent services have been sought in a wider field and he has served the local church as pastor for a number of years, his ministrations being of the highest character. In his church Doctor Miller has twice been elected as moderator of the Brethren General Conference. He is also president of the Board of Foreign Missions of the Brethren Church. He is chairman of the Board of the Hess Educational Foundation, and chairman of the Athletic Board of Ashland College. On Dec. 22, 1896, Doctor Miller was united in marriage with Miss Clara Worst, of Ashland, the daughter of Dr. E. J. and Armanda (Ash) Worst, natives of Wayne County. Doctor Worst died in 1927 and is buried in Ashland, where his widow resides. To Doctor and Mrs. Miller were born three children: 1. Caryl Elizabeth, married Grant K. Ellis, attorney, lives at Chicago, Ill. She was born in Ashland, June 26, 1900, and is a graduate of Ashland College, class of 1920. She also took graduate work at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Chicago, and was a teacher in the public schools of Evanston, Ill., for four years before her marriage in 1928. 2. John Allen, born Oct. 18, 1905, a graduate of Ashland College, class of 1926, and Ohio State University, having received the degree of Master of Arts at the latter institution. During 1927-28 he was a member of the faculty of Cleveland Heights High School, and in the latter year became an instructor in the Department of Zoology at Ashland College. He was married in September, 1929, to Miss Gaynelle Heppard, of Ashland, the daughter of H. C. Heppard. She is a graduate of Ashland College, class of 1927. 3. Malcolm Elmore, born April 26, 1352 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO 1911, won the Myers Scholarship, and was a student at Ashland College until 1929, when he entered Ohio State University to take up the study of medicine. He now attends the University of Louisville, Ky. Doctor Miller is a Republican and has always taken a keen interest in public affairs and pure government. The high office which he officiates speaks sufficiently for his usefulness as an educator. Doctor Miller is a member of the Ashland Rotary Club. C. D. Hubler is a successful business man of Ashland, where he is president and treasurer of the Faultless Rubber Company. He was born in Wayne County, Dec. 12, 1881, the son of William and Jane (Smith) Hubler. William Hubler was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1843, and died in 1912. At an early age he came to Ohio with his parents and settled in Wayne County. He was a carpenter by trade and also studied mechanics, being thus employed at the time of his death. He is buried at West Salem. Mr. Hubler was a Democrat and a member of the Evangelical Church. His wife was born in 1844 in Wayne County, died in 1926, and is buried at West Salem. To Mr. and Mrs. Hubler were born nine children, C. D. being the eighth. C. D. Hubler attended the district schools of Wayne County, where he spent his boyhood. He later attended Hammels Business College at Akron, and also studied through the International Correspondence Schools, of Scranton. From 1902 until 1907 he was in the employ of the B. F. Goodrich Rubber Company of Akron, and in the latter year became identified with the Faultless Rubber Company as bookkeeper and timekeeper. Later he was made credit manager, and soon was elected vice president and treasurer of, the company. He has served in the capacity of president and treasurer since December, 1927, and is also a member of the board of directors. On Dec. 30, 1909, Mr. Hubler was united in marriage with Miss Daisy Mae Bucks, of Cleveland, the daughter of Rev. William and Sarah (Rickert) Bucks, natives of Pennsylvania and Iowa, respectively. They are now residents of Ashland. Mr. and Mrs. Hubler have a daughter, Marjorie E., born Nov. 17, 1910. She is a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1928, and Lasell Seminary, at Auburndale, Mass., class of 1930. Politically, Mr. Hubler is a Democrat. He holds membership in the Evangelical Church and belongs to the Masonic Lodge. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Samaritan Hospital, Ashland. The family residence is located at 223 Highland Avenue. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1353 H. Marshall Clark. As vice president of the Dr. Hess & Clark, Incorporated, Mr. Clark is numbered among the representative young business men of Ashland. He was born in this city, July 9, 1901, the son of Jesse Lewis and Mary (Swineford) Clark. A sketch of Jesse Lewis Clark, who is president of the Dr. Hess & Clark, Inc., of Ashland, appears elsewhere in this history. H. Marshall Clark spent two years at Ashland High School and in 1919 was graduated from Culver Military Academy. He is also a graduate of Leland Stanford University, class of 1923, and since that time has been associated with the interests of the Dr. Hess & Clark, Inc., being identified with the sales department of the company. He also holds the office of vice president. On June 11, 1924, Mr. Clark was united in marriage with Miss Norene Mansfield, of Ashland, the daughter of Newton and Nora (Stockman) Mansfield, the former a native of Ashland and the latter of Shelby. A sketch of Newton Mansfield appears in this history. Mr. Clark is a Republican, a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, and is affiliated with Ashland Lodge, F. & A. M.; Ashland Chapter ; Ashland Council ; Mansfield Commandery ; and Al Koran Shrine, Cleveland. He also belongs to Phi Delta Theta fraternity, Lions Club, and Ashland Country Club, being president of the latter during 1928. He has also served as president of the Ashland Y. M. C. A., and is a member of the board of directors. Mr. Clark served with the Student Army Training Corps at Fort Sheridan, Ill., during the World War and was discharged in September, 1918. He holds membership in the American Legion. Like his father, Mr. Clark is fond of riding, and is the owner of some especially fine horses. Clyde Montrose Canfield, deceased, was a substantial business man and highly esteemed citizen of Ashland, where he was identified with the North Side Green House, 1402 Troy Street. He was born at Savannah, Ohio, Jan. 15, 1876, and died in Ashland, Nov. 11, 1929. When he was seven weeks old the mother of Clyde Montrose Canfield died, and he was taken into the home of Mrs. Matilda Zimmerman, where he was reared and educated. She was the mother of William and Ada Zimmerman. In July, 1898, Mr. Canfield married Miss Clara McKean, who died in 1915. In August, 1917, Mr. Canfield enlisted for service in the World War at Warren, Ohio, and was sent to Camp Sheridan, Ala., where he became a 1354 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO member of Company E, 145th Infantry. He failed, however, to pass the physical examination for overseas duty, and was sent to Camp Jackson, S. C., where he was located on hospital duty. He served in that capacity throughout the influenza epidemic of 1918 and rendered valiant service during that period. Upon his discharge from the service Mr. Canfield went to Cass Lake, Minn., to make his home with his sister, Miss Ada Zimmerman. On Oct. 30, 1919, he married Miss Nancy Roy, of Lengby, Minn., the daughter of Benjamin and Philomena (LaRoque) Roy, both natives of Minnesota. Mr. Roy died in 1923. To Clyde Montrose and Nancy (Roy) Canfield were born five children : Reah, born July 29, 1920 ; Grace, born Nov. 17, 1921; Clyde Roy, born, Nov. 12, 1922 ; Florence, born Dec. 8, 1924 ; and Robert, born Sept. 17, 1926. Mr. Canfield returned to Ashland upon the death of William Zimmerman to assume management of the Zimmerman greenhouse, of which he later became proprietor, the name being changed to the North Side Greenhouse. Mr. Canfield was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was affiliated with Cass Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 243 ; he also belonged to the American Legion, Modern Woodmen of America and Junior Order. William E. Gebhart is among the most prominent citizens of Ashland, where he is owner and proprietor of the Bally Floral Shoppe, located at 509 West Main Street. He was born at San Bernardino, Calif., in 1887, the son of Christian and Eliza (Zehner) Gebhart. With the exception of two years which were spent in California, Christian Gebhart was a life long resident of Ashland County. He was born in Montgomery Township and his wife was a native of Milton Township. He was a farmer. Mr. Gebhart died in 1911 and his wife died in 1914. They are buried in Imhof Cemetery, six miles west of Ashland. To Mr. and Mrs. Gebhart the following children were born : Wesley C., lives at Los Angeles, Calif. ; Fianna, lives at Oakland, Calif. ; Henry F., lives at Ashland ; Estella Richards, lives at Bellville ; Mrs. Lillian Garver, lives at Bellville ; and William E., the subject of this sketch. The education of William E. Gebhart was received in the public schools of Ashland, and he has been a resident of this city since 1909. He spent some time in the employ of F. E. Myers Brother Company, and in 1910 purchased the Grand Theatre, a motion picture house, which he successfully operated until 1915. He was then associated with the B. F. Donley Engineering Company, and during the World War was employed in the HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1355 Lorain (Ohio) shipyards. During 1920-22 he owned the lease on the City Opera House in partnership with E. P. McKinley. In 1924 Mr. Gebhart purchased the Bally Floral Shoppe and greenhouse which was formerly owned and operated by J. H. Bally. The establishment has since more than doubled in capacity and has the added feature of a landscape department. Nursery stock has also become a specialty of Mr. Gebhart. In 1907 Mr. Gebhart married Miss Ruby A. Chew, of Weller Township, Richland County, the daughter of F. P. and Anna Catherine (Ward) Chew, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania, respectively. Mr. Chew lives at Greenwich, Ohio. His wife died in 1923. Mr. and Mrs. Gebhart have a son, W. Franklin, who is associated in business with his father in Ashland. Mr. Gebhart and his family hold membership in the Congregational Church, and he is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, B. P. 0. Elks, Modern Woodmen of America and the Junior Order. John Ezra Spreng, known to his many friends as "Uncle Ezra," is a widely known and highly esteemed citizen of Ashland, where he spent almost 40 years in the employ of the F. E. Myers & Bro. Company. He was born in Wayne County, Feb. 3, 1856, the son of Christian and Julia (Grimm) Spreng. Both Christian Spreng and his wife were natives of Germany. The former came to the United States with his parents at the age of 16 years, and the latter when she was nine years old. Both families settled in Wayne County. After their marriage, Christian Spreng and his wife removed to Clinton Township, Ashland County, and later lived in Congress Township. For a time they were also residents of Akron, Ohio, and were living at Naperville, Ill., at the time of their respective deaths, Feb. 22, 1908, and 1889. Mr. Sprenger was a Republican and a member of the Evangelical Church. John Ezra Spreng attended the district schools of Wayne County and was graduated from West Salem High School in 1879. He also attended Miami Business College at Dayton, Ohio, after which he spent nine years in a mercantile establishment in Akron. Mr. Spreng came to Ashland in 1889 and in that year entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Bro. Company. He served for two years in a clerical capacity and was then put in complete charge of the billing department and as manager of the claim department. He held this responsible position until his retirement in 1926. Mr. Spreng lives at 413 Pleasant Street. On Feb. 2, 1888, Mr. Spreng was united in marriage with Miss Savilla E. Myers, the daughter of George Myers, of Ashland. To Mr. and Mrs. 1356 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Spreng were born five children: 1. Marie, married Grant E. Long, lives at Ashland, and they have a son, Samuel Spreng Long. Mrs. Long was organist in various churches in Ashland. 2. Warren M., a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. 3. Esther Pauline, deceased. 4. Catherine Elizabeth, married William C. McCorkle, lives in Florida. She is a graduate of Ashland College and Illinois North Central College. 5. Virginia R., married Charles W. Harrison, lives at South Bend, Ind. She attended the Cleveland Institute of Music. Mr. Spreng is affiliated with Ashland Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 151, and the Colonial Club. His wife holds membership in the Daughters of the American Revolution and belongs to the Bay View Reading Club, of Ashland. In 1894 Mrs. Spreng completed a four-year course in reading, and received a degree from the Chautauqua Literary Scientific Circle. Samuel P. Spreng, brother of John E. Spreng, is a bishop of the Evangelical Church and is located at Naperville, Ill. Frank R. Smith, who is manager of the Ashland Equity Exchange, is an active and progressive young business man of the city. He was born at Red Haw, Ashland County, in November, 1892, the son of J. L. and Ida (Plank) Smith. J. L. Smith was born at Red Haw, where he spent his early life. He was educated in the public schools and as a young man learned the carpenter trade. He is now well known as a building contractor and also is interested in the lumber and sawmill business. He lives four miles east of Ashland. His wife died in 1920 and is buried in Ashland. Mr. Smith is a Republican and a member of the United Brethren Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith were born three children : Frank R., the subject of this sketch ; Arthur, farmer, lives, near Ashland ; and Honor C., lives at Ashland. Frank R. Smith grew up on his father's farm near Ashland and attended the city public schools. He also took a commercial course at Ashland College. For a time he assisted his father in his business and also served as a rural mail carrier. In September, 1917, he entered the employ of the Ashland Equity Exchange as a bookkeeper, and the following month was promoted to manager of the business. It is a farmer owned organization and operates on a cooperative basis exclusively, whereby farmers may sell their products, as well as make purchases. It is estimated that the Ashland Equity Exchange has returned a profit to the farmers of Ashland County amounting to $100,000. Since its organization the number of stockholders has increased from 100 to 220. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1357 In 1920 Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Miss Levis Fike Swine-ford, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Emory Fike. Mrs. Smith is the adopted daughter of E. H. and Frances (Fike) Swineford, her parents having died when she was a small child. They are residents of Ashland County. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born three children : Marshall E., born Aug. 13, 1921; Frances Jean, born April 10, 1923 ; and Bonnie Helen, born May 1, 1926. Politically, Mr. Smith is a Republican. He holds membership in the Evangelical Church. Peter Smith and William Swineford, grandparents of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, were soldiers throughout the Civil War. John H. Burkholder, retired, has for many years been prominently identified with the business interests of Ashland. He was born near Kotawa Creek, east of Ashland, April 25, 1857, the son of William and Susanna (Witwer) Burkholder. William Burkholder was a native of Lancaster County, Pa., as was also his wife. He was a carpenter by trade and after his marriage came to Ashland County, where he engaged in business with John Harley, as proprietors of a flax seed mill. They also operated a sawmill, and after a number of years Mr. Burkholder became sole owner of the business. He and his wife are deceased and are buried in Dickey Church Cemetery. Their children were : Fiana, who died at the age of 13 years ; Elizabeth, married George Jackson, both deceased ; Frances, who died at the age of 22 years ; Isaac, lives near Ashland ; Daniel, deceased ; Henry, lives near Ashland ; John H., the subject of this sketch ; Amanda, who died in infancy; William, who died at the age of nine years ; Susanna, married Harry Imler, lives near Ashland ; and Leah, who died in infancy. John H. Burkholder received his education in the district schools of Ashland County and for a time was associated in business with his father. He formed a partnership with his brother, Henry Burkholder, and for 18 years they owned and operated a large sawmill near Ashland, the business being known as Burkholder Brothers. In 1893 Mr. Burkholder came to Ashland where he became identified with the Ashland Manufacturing Company in partnership with George and Joseph Uhlman. He sold his interest in this business in 1896 to Justice Sharick. In 1901 Mr. Burkholder formed a partnership with William Topping and Guy C. Bowen, as founders of the Safety Door Hanger Company, the plant being located on East Fourth Street, Ashland. The company became widely known as manufacturers of flexible doorhangers, and Mr. Burkholder held numerous 1358 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO patents on products handled by the company. In 1904 he disposed of his interest in this business and in 1906 became associated with E. L. Kilhefner, and P. E. Countryman, as owners of the Elite Manufacturing Company, specialists in the manufacture of automobile accessories. Mr. Burkholder devoted his entire time to this enterprise over a period of 23 years, until his retirement in 1929. In 1884 Mr. Burkholder was united in marriage with Miss Jennie Depler, of Rowsburg, Ashland County, the daughter of Henry and Margaret (Campbell) Depler, the former died in 1901, and the latter in 1914. Two daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Burkholder : 1. Effie, married Ward Williams, lives at Ashland. They have two daughters, Frances Jane, and Ruth. 2. Marguerite, born in 1894, died in 1909. Mr. Burkholder is identified with the Republican party in politics. In 1925 Mr. Burkholder built his present home on East Main Street, and he is also the owner of a fine farm of 96 acres on the Savannah Road. Ezra H. Culler, retired, is among the well known and highly esteemed citizens of Ashland. He was born in Vermilion Township, Ashland County, April 27, 1868, the son of Michael and Michel (Sweaengen) Culler. Michael Culler was born on a farm in Mifflin Township, Ashland County, the son of Michael Culler, who came to Ohio from Frederick, Md., in 1813, and settled on the Zimmerman homestead, south of Mifflin. It was one of the oldest homesteads in this section of the state, and is still owned by the Culler descendants. Michael Culler, father of the subject of this sketch, attended the district schools and throughout his life engaged in general farming. He was a Republican and served a number of years as justice of the peace, being recognized as one of the cultured men and progressive students of his time. He held membership in the Lutheran Church at Mifflin. Mr. Culler died in 1903 and is buried in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Richland County. His wife, who was born at Wheeling, W. Va., died in 1908. They were the parents of five children: Anna B., who died in 1909 ; John Henry, who died in 1891, was a graduate of Hayesville Academy ; Solomon Franklin, who died in infancy ; Asher, who died in infancy ; and Ezra H., the subject of this sketch. Ezra H. Culler grew up on his father's farm in Vermilion Township and attended the public schools of Mifflin. For a number of years he was interested in the lumber business, and operated a sawmill on his farm. In 1911, however, he retired from farming, and removed to Ashland to devote his entire time to the wholesale lumber business, in which he was HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1359 successfully engaged until 1927. He is still the owner of a farm of 214 acres in Vermilion Township. In 1915 Mr. Culler married Miss May Mills, of Ashland. They have three adopted children : 1. Margaret Greiner, a graduate of Ashland High School and Ashland College, now a teacher in the public schools of Frederick, Md. 2. Catherine Neff, a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1930, attends Ashland College. 3. Joseph Neff, attends Grant Street school. Mr. Culler and his family are members of the Methodist Church, and he is a Republican in politics. John Markley, deceased, was one of Ashland's best known citizens, having spent practically his entire life in this city. He was born here Nov. 2, 1834, the son of Aaron and Elizabeth (Shoemaker) Markley. Aaron Markley was born in Pennsylvania, the oldest son of a family of 12 sons, all of whom are over six feet in height. Aaron Markley came to Ohio with his parents, and they were among the first settlers of Ashland County, their farm being located just east of the present city limits of Ashland. Mr. Markley became one of the most prosperous farmers of this section. He died in Ashland in 1882, and his wife died in 1897. They held membership in the Dunkard Church, and Mr. Markley was a Democrat in politics. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Markley: John, the subject of this sketch ; Joseph, deceased ; Josiah, deceased ; Eliza Mahon, deceased ; Susan, the widow of Henry Homan, deceased ; Catherine, the widow of Henry Wells, lives near Ashland ; Cyrus, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War ; Caroline, married Frank R. Marks ; George, lives in Nome, Alaska ; and Jonas, deceased. John Markley attended the rural schools of Ashland County, and at the age of 17 years went west in the California gold rush. He returned to Ashland after three years, but later made five more trips to California, where he spent a total of fifteen years. He was identified with F. E. Myers & Bro. Company in Ashland for a period of 15 years, and was living retired at the time of his death, Nov. 24, 1924. He is buried in Ashland Cemetery. On Aug. 7, 1861, Mr. Markley married Miss Harriet Sevilla Oyer, of Canton, Ohio, the daughter of William and Rebecca Oyer, who were natives of Pennsylvania. To Mr. and Mrs. Markley were born three children : 1. William E., who died in Ashland in 1892. 2. Edith Rebecca, who is connected with the Ashland public schools as principal for 20 years 1360 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO and is also principal of the Osborne school. 3. Eva Elizabeth, twin sister of Edith Rebecca. She married Thomas T. Davis, and lives in Ashland. To them were born two children, Helen Catherine, married Sidney Welch, lives at Ashland ; and Martha, who died in 1921. Mr. Markley held membership in the Brethren Church and was identified with the Democratic party in politics. Capt. Abram Cahill Cummins was born on a farm near Shelby, Richland County, Oct. 29, 1836, the son of William and Jane (Cahill) Cummins. William Cummins was the son of David Cummins, who was born in Rockingham County, Va., in 1782. He came to Richland County in 1817. At the age of 16 years, Abram C. Cummins entered Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, and was graduated from that institution in 1858. He then came to Mansfield and entered the law offices of ex-Governor T. W. Bartley, as a law student, and was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1860. He formed a partnership with Governor Bartley and continued until the outbreak of the Civil War. A meeting was held at Shelby on April 17, 1861, and presided over by his father, William Cummins, to raise troops. That same night a full company was recruited and the following day left for Columbus, Ohio, with A. C. Cummins as captain. This was the second company that left from Richland County, and it became Company D, 15th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The company saw service in West Virginia and in August, 1861, was mustered out of service as the time of its enlistment had expired. In September, 1861, Captain Cummins and others organized another company, of which his brother, George Cummins, served as second lieutenant. This company became Company L, 15th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In April, 1862, Captain Cummins resigned and returned home. Soon after he recruited another company, Company H, 84th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and saw service in Maryland as its captain. He was later appointed adjutant of Camp Mansfield, and soon after was identified with the commission to adjust the pay of the Home Guards of Missouri. At the close of this commission he was appointed chief clerk to the quartermaster of the Seventh Army Corps, Department of Arkansas, which position he held until the close of the war. In 1869 Captain Cummins was elected mayor of Mansfield and served in that office for two years. From 1871 until 1893 he was trustee of the Mansfield Water Works. He practiced law for a number of years, and was a member of the board of the Richland Mutual Insurance Company. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1361 He died Feb. 18, 1917. In 1897 he was appointed a member of the board to build the sewage disposal plant. Captain Cummins was a charter member of McLaughlin Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and served for several terms as its commander. He was president of the 15th Ohio Volunteer Association. On Oct. 13, 1864, Captain Cummins married Miss Mary S. Newman, the daughter of Andrew S. Newman, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this history. To them were born five children, all of whom are deceased. A daughter, Maude C., married Berry A. Baxter, whose sketch also appears elsewhere in this history. Captain Cummins was always a Democrat. He was a delegate to the national Democratic convention, which was held at St. Louis, Mo., to nominate President Grover Cleveland, and in 1876 he was a candidate for Congress, but was defeated by a small majority. He was a member of the board of commissioners from Ohio at the Columbian Exposition, held at Chicago, Ill., in 1893, and was a member of the committee that erected the Ohio buildings at the World's Fair. From 1905 until 1910 Captain Cummins was also trustee of the Ohio Soldiers & Sailors Home at Sandusky, Ohio, appointed to that office by Gov. Myron T. Herrick. Berry A. Baxter. One of the most influential figures in the business life of Mansfield for many years was Berry A. Baxter, who now lives retired in California. He was born at Salem, Columbiana County, Ohio, June 24, 1858, the son of Thomas and Isabel Baxter. Thomas Baxter was born in Ireland and came to the United States when he was 16 years of age. His wife was also a native of Ireland. He became a prosperous merchant of Salem, Ohio, where he later died. Both he and his wife held membership in the Presbyterian Church. Their children were: John, Emmett, Henry, James, William, Robert, and Cassius, all deceased ; Edwin, lives at Mansfield ; and Berry A., the subject of this sketch. Berry A. Baxter attended the public schools of Salem and was graduated from high school there. He entered his father's business at an early age, but in 1878 came to Mansfield, where he was the founder of the Baxter Stove Company, manufacturers of coal and wood stoves. The plant was later sold to the American Stove Company, and Mr. Baxter then became active in the organization of the New Method Stove Company, manufacturers of gas stoves and ranges. He served as president of this company until his retirement from business in 1925. He has since resided at Altadena, Calif. Mr. Baxter was also vice president of the 1362 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Farmers Savings Bank, director of the Mansfield Sheet & Tin Plate Company, director of the Mansfield Telephone Company, and trustee of Mansfield General Hospital. In 1893 Mr. Baxter was united in marriage with Miss Maude C. Cummins, who was born in Mansfield in 1865. She died Jan. 15, 1907, and is buried in this city. She was the daughter of Capt. Abram C. Cummins, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this history. To Berry A. and Maude C. (Cummins) Baxter was born a daughter, Mary B., the wife of Leo D. Wright, who is associated with the Westinghouse Electric Manufacturing Company. They have two sons : Thomas B., born in 1919 ; and Richard D., born in 1922. Mr. Baxter was married the second time in 1917 to Miss Gladys Crooks, of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Baxter has always been a Republican. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, Masonic Lodge, and Mansfield City Club. He is also a charter member of the West Brook Country Club. Andrew S. Newman was a prominent pioneer citizen of Mansfield and Richland County, where he spent his entire life. He was born at Rocky Fork, Richland County, March 1, 1811, the son of Jacob and Susan (Snively) Newman. Jacob Newman was a native of Lancaster County, Pa., of Dutch descent. He lived in Franklin County for a time and later removed to Greensburg, Pa., in 1802, where he farmed. In 1806 he came to Stark County, Ohio, and settled on a farm near Canton. The following year he removed to Richland County and lived at Rocky Fork. His first wife, Catherine Freymeyer, died in 1801, and he later married Miss Susan Snively, who died in 1834. Both are buried at Mansfield. Jacob Newman owned and operated a sawmill at Rocky Fork, which he later sold to Jacob Beam. He took an active part in the development of the newly organized city of Mansfield and was identified in this work with Gen. Hedges and Joseph Larwell. The Newman family came to live in Mansfield in 1811, but later that year, during the Indian troubles, removed to Mt. Vernon, Ohio. General Crook's army came to Mansfield during the uprising and Mr. Newman was directed to accompany the troops to Upper Sandusky. He returned home from his mission and died on June 20, 1813. Andrew S. Newman was reared and educated in Mansfield and became one of the city's outstanding citizens. He possessed excellent judgment and was always regarded as a wise counselor. His life was spent in the interests of his community, of which he was a devoted member. On April 23, 1839, Mr. Newman married Miss Eliza A. Armentrout, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1363 who died July 3, 1855. He died Jan. 31, 1872. Both are buried in Mansfield. Their children were : Mary N., who married Capt. Abram C. Cummins, a sketch of whom appears in this history ; and Harriet. Mr. and Mrs. Newman were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Herman J. Schmitz. As proprietor of the Schmitz Cement Product Company, of Ashland, Herman J. Schmitz is prominent throughout North Central Ohio. He was born at Alvada, Seneca County, Ohio, Nov. 22, 1897, the son of Nicholas and Margaret (Reinhart) Schmitz. Nicholas Schmitz was a native of Seneca County, Ohio. Throughout his life he was interested in general farming and stockraising and owned a well improved farm in Seneca County. He retired in 1914 and removed to Fostoria, Ohio, where he died April 10, 1922. His wife died in 1924. Both are buried in St. Peter's Cemetery, near Alvada. They were members of St. Peter's Catholic Church, and Mr. Schmitz was a Democrat. There were nine children in the Schmitz family, as follows : Nicholas, died in infancy ; Charles, retired, lives at Fostoria ; Tillie, married Nicholas Kirian, lives near Alvada ; Romey, lives near Fostoria ; Minnie, married Martin Blechinger, lives near New Riegel, Ohio ; John, lives on the old homestead near Alvada ; Nora, married Joseph Faber, lives near Alvada ; Robert, lives at Fostoria ; and Herman J., the subject of this sketch. The boyhood of Herman J. Schmitz was spent on his father's farm in Seneca County and he attended the district schools. He took correspondence work in mechanical engineering, and at the age of 17 years went to Fostoria, where he spent three years in the employ of H. J. Adams. He later operated a garage in Fostoria, which he sold in 1918 to enlist for service in the World War. He was sent to the University of Cincinnati to study automobile mechanics and later was stationed at Valparaiso, Ind., as an instructor in motor transportation. He was discharged Dec. 15, 1918, and upon his return to Fostoria reentered the employ of H. J. Adams. Later he conducted a garage business at Tiffin, Ohio, for 18 months, after which he spent two years in business with his brother, Robert Schmitz, as proprietors of a cement products plant in Fostoria. Mr. Schmitz sold his interest in 1924 and came to Ashland, where he engaged in the manufacturing of cement products. A branch plant of the Schmitz Cement Products Company was erected in Mansfield in 1928. The company specializes in the manufacture of cement blocks, cement tile, trim stone, etc., and also manufactures a complete line of Selco and Haydite units. In August, 1930, Mr. Schmitz introduced a new composition on the market, which he has termed "Stone Age." This new product is almost as rigid 1364 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO as marble and is manufactured in all colors, to be used in bath room finish, floors, and table tops. It was perfected by Mr. Schmitz after several years of study and experimental work. On June 17, 1919, Mr. Schmitz was united in marriage with Miss Marie Elizabeth Cook, of Fostoria, the daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth (Eischen) Cook. Mr. Cook was born in Germany and died in Fostoria, Nov. 12, 1918. His widow, a native of Wyandotte County, Ohio, resides in Ashland. Mr. and Mrs. Schmitz have one son, Francis Joseph, born June 11, 1930. Mr. Schmitz is identified with the Democrat party in politics. He is a member of the Catholic Church and belongs to the American Legion. John P. Bowman. As editor and publisher of the Loudonville Times, in association with John G. Dauber, Mr. Bowman is numbered among the enterprising and progressive business men of Ashland County. He was born in Shelby, Ohio, March 2, 1867, the son of George and Sarah (Leppo) Bowman. George Bowman, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Germany and emigrated to this country at the age of fifteen years. The remainder of his life was spent at Shelby, where he successfully engaged in the mercantile business for many years. He died in 1894, and his wife, who was born in Richland County, died in 1885. Mr. Bowman is buried in Shelby and his wife is buried in Spring Mill Cemetery, near Shelby. He was a Republican in politics. There were three children in the Bowman family: John P., the subject of this sketch ; Ella, the widow of W. J. Weirick, attorney, of Loudonville ; and Georgia, who died Dec. 13, 1897. John P. Bowman attended the public schools of Shelby and Loudonville, being graduated from Loudonville High School in 1884. He learned the printing trade and in 1890 became owner and editor of the Loudonville Democrat, which he successfully published until its consolidation with the Loudonville Advocate in 1920. As publishers of the Loudonville Times, Bowman & Dauber are numbered among the city's representative citizens. Mr. Bowman is a member of the National Editorial Association. In October, 1890, Mr. Bowman married Miss Adeline Lyons, of Loudonville, the daughter of Leon and Delilah (Metzler) Lyons. Mr. Lyons, born in France, died at Tiffin, Ohio, in 1898. His wife, who died in 1877, was a native of Wooster. Mr. and Mrs. Bowman have a daughter, Ruth Marie, born at Loudonville, Aug. 14, 1892. She is the wife of Frederick Church, a World War veteran, and lives at Loudonville. Mrs. Church is a graduate HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1365 of the Wooster Conservatory of Music, and the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. For a number of years she was soloist in the Woodland Avenue Presbyterian Church, Cleveland, and since 1920 has been supervisor of music in the Loudonville schools. Mr. Bowman is a Democrat and for a number of years served as a member of the school board. He is an active member of the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge. John Leppo, maternal grandfather of Mr. Bowman, was a native of Maryland, and was among the first settlers of Mansfield. L. M. Helbert. One of Ashland's most widely known citizens is L. M. Helbert, retired, who was born in Ashland County, May 14, 1854, at Mohicansville. He is the son of Peter and Phoebe (Garst) Helbert. Peter Helbert was born in Lancaster County, Pa., and was among the early settlers of Ashland County, having come here with his parents when he was 12 years of age. He was a blacksmith by trade, and was thus engaged until he was 54 years of age, when he retired to his farm near Jeromesville. Mr. Helbert died at the age of 83 years in 1907, and is buried at Jeromesville. His wife, a native of Alsace-Lorraine, died in 1863, and is buried at Mohicansville. Mr. Helbert was a Democrat and held membership in the German Reformed Church. There were eight children in the Helbert family, as follows: L. M., the subject of this sketch ; Henry, who died at the age of three years ; Elizabeth, who died at the age of five years ; Dora, the widow of James Winbigler, lives at Ashland ; Walter, who died at the age of 14 years ; Effie, deceased ; Jacob, who died at the age of 21 years ; and Charles I., who lives at Ashland. L. M. Helbert attended the district schools of Mohicansville and at the age of 13 years became a clerk in a general mercantile establishment at that place. He spent 18 years as a general farmer in Ashland County, and in 1896 came to Ashland, where he purchased an interest in the Ashland Hardware & Implement Company, with which he was identified for 12 years. He also became proprietor of the Ashland Steel Range Foundry. Although now practically retired, Mr. Helbert has numerous business interests in the city, and is the owner of much valuable real estate. He has offices in the Ashland Realty Company. Mr. Helbert was one of the founders of the Ashland Bank & Savings Company in 1905, and is still a director of the institution. On Feb. 24, 1880, Mr. Helbert was united in marriage with Miss Christine Ann Summers, of Nankin, Ohio, the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Alberson) Summers. Mr. Summers was born in Pennsylvania and his 1366 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO wife was a native of Ashland County. The former died in 1916 and the latter in 1879. Both are buried at Nankin. The grandfather of Mrs. Helbert settled in Orange Township, Ashland County, in 1818, being among the best known pioneers of Mohicansville. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Helbert. 1. Walter, born Jan. 23, 1882, a graduate of Ashland College. He married Miss Edna Payne, of Shelby, Ohio, and they have a son, Payne Helbert. They live at Ashland. 2. Glenn, born in August, 1884, married Miss Etha Shidler, of Ashland, and they have two children, Elizabeth and Betty. They live at Ashland. 3. Ralph, born in October, 1885, died in 1916. 4. Mary J., born Jan. 13, 1886, a graduate of Oberlin College, lives at home. She is a graduate nurse. 5. Edwin P., born Aug. 23, 1887, is assistant cashier of the Ashland Bank & Savings Company. He married Miss Edna Conway, of Bridgeport, Ohio, and they have three sons : Louis, Maurice, and Joseph. 6. Cora B., born April 1, 1890, married Robert McIntosh, lives at Ashland, and they have a daughter, Martha. Mr. Helbert is a Democrat and has held the office of school director and township trustee. He and his family are members of the Congregational Church. Rev. J. H. Kuhlman. One of Ashland County's most representative and highly esteemed citizens is Reverend Kuhlman, who is pastor of the Lutheran Church, of Loudonville. He was born at Woodville, Ohio, Dec. 26, 1865, the son of Henry and Mary (Klein) Kuhlman. Henry Kuhlman was born in Hanover, Germany, and his wife was a native of Ohio, born at Woodville. He was a prosperous farmer and prominent churchman of Woodville for many years. Both he and his wife are deceased, and are buried in Woodville. Their children are : Mrs. Carrie Hurrelbrink ; Miss Minnie Kuhlman ; Miss Lizzie Kuhlman ; Rev. Edward Kuhlman, of Oil City, Pa. ; and J. H., the subject of this sketch. The early life of J. H. Kuhlman was spent at Woodville, where he received his preliminary education. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Capital University, Columbus, and has had pastorates at Columbus, Middletown, Springfield, and Loudonville. Reverend Kuhlman has been pastor of the Lutheran Church at Loudonville since 1910. On June 6, 1889, Reverend Kuhlman was united in marriage with Miss Wilhelmina Young, of Columbus, the daughter of William and Sarah (Helsel) Young. Both are deceased. Mrs. Kuhlman died June 17, 1929. To Reverend and Mrs. Kuhlman were born two sons : Rev. Arthur H., who is professor of public speaking at Capital University, Columbus ; HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1367 and Paul R., who is steamship agent and tour director, with offices in Loudonville. Reverend Kuhlman is a member of the Rotary Club of Loudonville, and has served as president of that organization. Rev. Harold Edward Andrews. One of the most prominent citizens of Ashland is Rev. Andrews, who is pastor of the First Presbyterian Church-. He was born in Cornwall, England, June 19, 1887, the son of Edward James and Ellen (Evans) Andrews. Edward James Andrews was born in Cornwall, England, as was also his wife. He received a common and high school education and as a young man learned the granite and carving business, being in the employ of John Freeman Sons & Co., of Cornwall, for many years. He was appointed by the British government as government inspector in charge of the building of docks, and continued in the government service until his death in 1908. Both he and his wife held membership in the Wesleyan Church. She is still a resident of Cornwall. To Mr. and Mrs. Andrews were born eight children : Harold Edward, the subject of this sketch ; Winifred, married Albert Knight, lives at Los Angeles, Calif ; Nellie, married Arnold Sara, lives in Cornwall ; Olive, lives in Plymouth, England ; May, lives in Falmouth, England ; Florence, married Fenton Martin, lives in Los Angeles ; Arthur L. ; and Herbert, live in Los Angeles. Harold Edward Andrews received his early education in his native land, and at the age of 18 years came to the United States. He was graduated from Huron College, at Huron, S. D., with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1912 and three years later received the degree of Bachelor of Divinity at the McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago. From 1915 until 1918 Rev. Andrews served as pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Tipton, Iowa, and in the latter year accepted his present appointment in Ashland. Mr. Andrews became pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Ashland in 1918. At that time the membership of the church was 400. It is now over 900. In 1926 under his leadership the church built a modern religious educational plant costing about $90,000. In August, 1916, Rev. Andrews was united in marriage with May Pyle, of Huron, S. D., the daughter of John L. and Mamie (Shields) Pyle. The former died in 1902 and the latter lives at Huron. To Reverend and Mrs. Andrews have been born three children : 1. Harold Edward, Jr., born June 15, 1917. 2. Don Pyle, born Jan. 2, 1919. 3. Mary Ellen, born June 20, 1922. 1368 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO May (Pyle) Andrews is a graduate of Huron College, and Chicago University, having received the degree of Master of Arts at the latter institution. She was a teacher in the public schools of Huron, S. D., and served as principal of the high school at Buena Vista, Colo. She was also dean of women and professor of English at Whitworth College, Spokane, Wash., and is now an associate professor of English in Ashland College, having served in that capacity since 1925. She is a member of the Ashland Library Board and the Friday Club. Rev. Andrews is a member of the Westminster Foundation at Ohio State University, and belongs to the Ashland Country Club and Lions Club. He is also affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. Reverend Andrews is interested in the history of the growth and development of the Presbyterian Church in the United States, and has collected numerous valuable books of information on this subject. He is also especially interested in the collection of first editions of well known American authors. Henry W. Guth. One of the substantial citizens of Ashland, where he has spent his entire life, Henry W. Guth is widely known throughout Ashland County. He was born here Jan. 14, 1874, the son of Diebold and Augusta (Lang) Guth. Diebold Guth was born in France and his wife was a native of Germany. He emigrated to the United States in 1841 at the age of 17 years, and settled in Knox County, later removing to Ashland County. In 1848 he made a return visit to France and later settled in Loudonville, where he conducted a general mercantile business. He again located in Ashland in 1861 where he was interested in the produce business until his death in 1908. His wife died in 1916. Both are buried in Ashland. Mr. Guth was a Democrat and held membership in the Lutheran Church. There were five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Guth, two of whom survive, Henry W., the subject of this sketch, and Augusta. After his graduation from Ashland High School in 1893, Henry W. Guth entered the offices of F. E. Myers & Bro. Company in Ashland. After almost two years in their service he became associated with his father's business for five years, after which he returned to the Myers Company for a period of 12 years. He resigned in 1913 on account of ill health, and has since engaged in accounting work. He is a director of the Star Telephone Company. April 18, 1917, Mr. Guth was united in marriage with Miss Eva Maud Hoffman, of Jersey City, N. J., the daughter of Aller and Catherine HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1369 (Sharp) Hoffman. The former died in 1909 and is buried at Lebanon, N. J. Mrs. Hoffman lives in Ashland. Mr. Guth is a Democrat, a member of Peace Lutheran Church, and is serving as treasurer of the Colonial Club. Guy C. Myers. Active and progressive in the business life of the city of Ashland, where he is vice president of F. E. Myers & Brother Company, Mr. Myers is widely known throughout North Central Ohio. He was born in Ashland, Oct. 5, 1881, the son of Philip A. and Samantha Alice (Chase) Myers. The biography of Philip A. Myers appears elsewhere in this history. The early education of Guy C. Myers was received in the public schools of Ashland and after his graduation from Ashland High School in 1898 he attended Dummer Academy at South Byfield, Mass. He also attended Harvard University. Since completing his education he has been identified with F. E. Myers & Brother Company as vice president. In 1906 Mr. Myers married Miss Kate Moore, of Ashland, the daughter of Curtiss and Bessie (Morgan) Moore. Mr. Moore was born in Ashland County and died in this city in 1920. His wife, a native of London, England, died in 1919. Mr. and Mrs. Myers have three children : 1. Elizabeth, born in 1907, is a graduate of Bennet School for Girls at Millbrook, N. Y. 2. Miriam, born in 1911, a graduate of Choat School for Girls, Boston, Mass., now attends Smith College. 3. Philip A. II, born in 1916, attends University School, Cleveland. Warren M. Spreng. As county surveyor in Ashland County, Warren M. Spreng is prominent in Ashland and is a member of one of the city's well known families. He was born here, May 23, 1890, the son of John E. and Savilla (Myers) Spreng. A complete sketch of John E. Spreng appears elsewhere in this history. Warren M. Spreng was graduated from Ashland High School in 1911, and from Ohio Northern University in 1914, where he specialized in the study of mechanical engineering. Until Jan. 1, 1917, he was employed in the county surveyor's office in Ashland as assistant surveyor, after which he went to Akron, Ohio, to become identified with the T. E. Gilman Engineering Company. For a time he was also connected with the Akron Water Works, and the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Mr. Spreng 1370 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO returned to Ashland in 1920 and was associated with Gus Otter, county surveyor, until Jan. 1, 1925, when he engaged in business with Howard Reep for two years in architectural engineering work. His next professional work was with Vern Redding and associates for one year, and in November, 1928, Mr. Spreng was elected to the office of county surveyor, being the first Republican on record to hold this office in Ashland County. He was elected by a majority of 1,000 votes and took office, Jan. 7, 1929, for a four-year term. In 1917 Mr. Spreng married Miss Leila M. Clem, of Ashland, the daughter of Frank Clem. They are the parents of three children : Marian L., born Aug. 6, 1918 ; Harold Richard, born Aug. 7, 1920 ; and Warren M., Jr., born Jan. 19, 1923. Mr. Spreng is a Republican, a member of the Evangelical Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge, and Sigma Pi fraternity. G. Blake Darling is one of the prominent young bankers of Ashland County, being identified with the Perrysville Bank, as cashier. He was born near Perrysville, in Richland County, Dec. 15, 1892, the son of Marion M. and Sylvia E. (Switzer) Darling. Marion M. Darling was born on the farm where he now resides near Perrysville. He attended the district schools and is a graduate of Smithville College. For ten years he was a teacher in the district schools, and with the exception of that time has successfully engaged in general farming. He is a Democrat and a member of St. John's Lutheran Church. His wife is a native of Monroe Township, Richland County. Their children are : Howard C., lives near Lucas, Richland County ; G. Blake, the subject of this sketch ; Carl C., lives on the Darling homestead ; Bonita B., married A. L. Callahan, lives at Roseville, Ohio ; Eulalia M. Mitchell, who died in June, 1930 ; and Eulelia M., twin sister of Eulalia, lives at Mansfield. G. Blake Darling attended the district schools of Richland County, taught school for several years, and also engaged in farming. He was in the employ of the Illinois Pipe Line in the capacity of fireman and later as engineer, and resigned in January, 1924, to accept his present position as cashier of the Perrysville Bank. He is also a member of the board of directors. On Feb. 21, 1914, Mr. Darling was united in marriage with Miss Minerva May Mullendore, of Perrysville, the daughter of Rev. George D. and Eudora (Lee) Mullendore, natives of Missouri. The former lives in Mississippi. The latter died in 1904 and is buried at Weston, Mo. Mr. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1371 and Mrs. Darling have two daughters: Sylvia Eudora, born July 11, 1915 ; and June Eileen, born June 29, 1919. Both attend the public schools of Perrysville. In politics Mr. Darling is identified with the Democratic party and he has served as central committeeman since 1916. He has also been town clerk and at the present time is a member of the Perrysville school board. He and his family hold membership in the Methodist Church, of which he is treasurer and Sunday School superintendent, and he is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen of America, and Junior Order of United American. Mechanics. He and his wife are also members of the Order of Eastern Star. He is president of the Perrysville Farmers Institute. C. W. Markley. Active and progressive in business, C. W. Markley is well known in Ashland, where he is associated with the firm of Markley & Jacobs. He was born ip this city, April 15, 1882, the son of Orlando and Catherine (Michael) Markley. Orlando Markley was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born on a farm just south of Ashland and practically his entire life was spent in the greenhouse business. He died at Ashland in 1922 and his wife, a native of Germany, died in 1928. Both are buried in Ashland. Mr. Markley was a Republican, a member of the United Brethren Church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. There were seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Markley : Sadie, married Rev. C. W. Record, lives at Wellington ; Mary, married H. W. Reynard, lives at Salem ; Orlando V., lives at Ashland ; C. W., the subject of this sketch ; Edna, married H. B. Park, lives at Salem ; Clarence, lives at Ashland ; and Ralph, lives east of Ashland. C. W. Markley attended the public schools of Ashland, and after his graduation from high school entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Bro. Company, with whom he was identified for 18 years. He engaged in contract work in the Myers factory in partnership with Rolly Scott, and had as many as 50 men under his supervision. In 1920 Mr. Markley went to Findlay, Ohio, where he spent six months in business, and upon his return to Ashland he established an electrical business on Arthur Street, which he disposed of in 1924, on account of ill health. Two years later he purchased an interest in the business of Mr. Jacobs and formed the partnership of Markley and Jacobs. They removed to their present location on South Street in 1928, where they are extensive dealers in electrical supplies for automobiles, They are also recognized as battery specialists. 1372 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO On Dec. 21, 1905, Mr. Markley was united in marriage with Miss Alma Newell, of Ashland, the daughter of Robert B. and Hattie (Richard) Newell, who are residents of Ashland County. Mr. and Mrs. Markley are the parents of two daughters : Alice, who died in 1908 ; and Ruth, born in August, 1911, a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1929. She attends Ashland College. Mr. Markley is a Republican in politics. Carl F. Dudte. Active and progressive in business, Carl F. Dudte is prominent in Loudonville, where he is connected with the C. F. Dudte & Company, dealers in coal and builders' supplies. He was born in this city, Dec. 31, 1889, the son of Charles and Elizabeth (Derr) Dudte. Charles Dudte has spent his entire life in Ashland County, and is a representative citizen of Loudonville. He was reared and educated near this city, and as a young man followed the carpenter trade for a period of 16 years. He then came to Loudonville, where he purchased the coal business of E. P. L. Dow. Later, he became widely known as a dealer in builders' supplies, at which time Mr. Derr purchased an interest in the business, the firm being known as Dudte & Derr. When the younger Mr. Dudte became interested in the business, it was conducted as Dudte-Derr & Company. The father is now retired from business and devotes his time and interest to the management of his farm of 90 acres just north of the city. He is a Democrat and has served as a member of the local school board and city council. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Zion Lutheran Church. Their children are: Bertha, married Russell Snyder, lives at Barberton, Ohio ; Carl F., the subject of this sketch ; Anna, a graduate nurse, now engaged in nursing in Los Angeles, Calif.; Orpha, a graduate nurse, who is also engaged in nursing in Los Angeles with her sister ; Carrie, married Floyd Richer, lives at Akron, Ohio ; Viola, married Carl Kayler, lives at Loudonville ; Margaret, married Harold Glover, lives at Akron ; Paul, married Golda Shaffer, and has two children, James and Junior ; Evelyn and Seth, both at home. Carl F. Dudte attended the public schools of Loudonville, and has taken correspondence work in architecture from the International Correspodence School, Scranton, Pa. Almost his entire business career has been identified with the business, which was established so many years ago by his father. He purchased the interest of his uncle, Mr. Derr, in 1915, and four years later became associated with his brother-in-law. Joseph Tenschert, a World War veteran. The firm has since been conducted as C. F. Dudte & Company. Besides an extensive and complete line of builders' supplies, the company manufactures concrete blocks. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1373 In 1914 Mr. Dudte was united in marriage with Miss Delilah Tenschert, of Loudonville, the daughter of Anthony and Mary (Kick) Tenschert. Mr. Tenschert, who died in 1929, was a native of Germany. His wife, born in Knox County, Ohio, died in 1920. Both are buried at Loudonville. Mr. and Mrs. Dudte have three daughters : Dorothy Marian, born Dec. 25, 1915 ; Mary Elizabeth, born Jan. 1, 1917 ; and Kathryn Margaret, born April 20, 1930. Mr. Dudte has always taken a prominent part in civic affairs in Loudonville. In 1930 he was instrumental in influencing the city to purchase and plant 5,000 trees on Reservoir hill, in the interest of the city's water supply,. He is a Democrat in politics and is a member of the city council, and chairman of the street committee. He has also been president of the Chamber of Commerce for the past three years and during 1929 was president of the Rotary Club. He holds membership in the Lutheran Church, of which he is an active member, and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, and Isaac Walton League. Mr. Dudte is the owner of a fine hunting lodge on Muddy Fork Creek, where he spends much of his leisure time in hunting and fishing. S. O. Nigh is perhaps one of the best known and most successful business men of Ashland County, being identified with the Nigh Hatchery at Perrysville and Loudonville. He was born at New Washington, Crawford County, Ohio, Aug. 10, 1884, the son of John and Sarah (Cook) Nigh. John Nigh, deceased, was for many years a representative farmer of Crawford County. He was born in Pennsylvania and his wife was a native of Michigan. The former died in 1923 and the latter in 1925. They are buried in Crawford County. John Nigh came to Ohio when six weeks old with his parents, who settled in Crawford County. He lived retired for two years prior to his death. He was a Republican. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Nigh : Rosia, married C. M. Messnard, lives at Sycamore, Ohio ; Alva, who died in 1880 ; Elvira, married W. C. Becker, lives at Los Angeles, Calif. ; Elyda, married D. V. Vance, lives at Leesville, Ohio ; Ora Dawlson, lives at Tabor, Canada ; S. 0., the subject of this sketch ; C. A., lives at New Washington, Ohio ; A. M., lives at Millersburg, Ohio ; Addie, who died in infancy ; Sina, married Thomas Spittler, lives at Los Angeles ; Rhoda, married Harley Fyke, lives at Lickens, Ohio ; Neonie ; A. E., lives at Bucyrus, Ohio ; John, who died in infancy. S. O. Nigh spent his early life in Crawford County and received his education in the public schools. He was a blacksmith by trade and until 1374 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO 1920 conducted a well patronized shop at Perrysville. He then became interested in his present business, beginning on a small scale, with an incubator of 700 egg capacity. The business developed rapidly and in 1922 Mr. Nigh built a modern hatchery on the site of his blacksmith shop, two years later becoming associated in the business with F. M. Pfleiderer, of Tiro, Ohio. In 1927 John H. Nigh, son of Mr. Nigh, became a member of the firm, and on Aug. 1, 1930, a second enterprise of this type was established at Loudonville. Both hatcheries have a capacity of 350,000 eggs. In 1926 Mr. Nigh established a third hatchery at Millersburg, Ohio, this business being entirely separate from the Nigh Hatchery, and operated under the firm name of The Holmes County Hatchery. Mr. Nigh is associated in this enterprise with his brother, A. M. Nigh. The company has an incubator capacity of 150,000 eggs. Both firms, mentioned above, carry on a wholesale and retail business throughout Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia, and Connecticut. On April 12, 1905, he was united in marriage with Miss Orissa Radabaugh, of Tiro, the daughter of J. M. and Emma (Parson) Radabaugh. They have two children : 1. John H., born Oct. 17, 1906, a graduate of Loudonville High School, attended Ashland College, and now associated in business with his father. He married Miss Pauline Hiner, of Perrysville, and they have a daughter, Patsy. 2. Evelyn Burdell, born July 2, 1909, a graduate of Perrysville High School, attends Wooster College. William A. Duff. On East Main Street, Ashland, a mile from the new $325,000 Court House, is Asesiba Farm of 80 acres, part of the 320 acres which the owner's ancestor, Joseph Markley, purchased in 1814 from the Widow Trickle, whose husband had died at the Jeromesville blockhouse to which the family had fled, after the massacres in the Blackfork Valley. This ancestor, with his wife, seven sons and two daughters, settled in the spring of 1815 on this farm, most of which is now in the residence section of Ashland, and all is inside the corporation. Four grownup sons in Pennsylvania came later. The family settled in a log house, which later gave way to a big brick house. In July following their arrival, Uniontown, now Ashland, was laid out. William A. Duff was born Oct. 16, 1872, at the home of his grandparents on Center Street, a son of Captain John W. and Lovina (Markley) Duff. He attended Ashland schools, Wittenberg College, Ashland College and Ohio Wesleyan University. His first newspaper work was on the Ashland News, the town's first daily, of which for six months he was editor and manager. He gave up his work on the Galion Daily Inquirer to be- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1375 come a reporter on the Mansfield News on which he continued for over 12 years. In 1903 he became city editor of the Mansfield Shield and three and one-half years later became a member of the staff of the Cleveland News, continuing until the following spring. He became telegraph editor of the Sandusky Register in 1909 and near the close of. 1911 returned to Ashland to take over the active management of his farm. From 1913 to 1919 he was editor of the Ashland Press and was one of the incorporators in the consolidation of the Press and the Daily Times-Gazette early in 1919 when he became editor of the Times-Gazette, continuing until 1926. Since that time he has done historical writing for various newspapers and for nearly a year did publicity for the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Columbus. From June, 1930, to March 28, 1931, he was engaged in completing this history of North Central Ohio. When Ashland held its centennial in 1915, Mr. Duff was chairman of the historical department, was a member of the pageant committee and was the founder of the Johnny Appleseed Society of which 1,200 school children of the county were members. This society, with grownups, erected the boulder monument in Ashland commemorating the pioneers of Ashland County, including Johnny Appleseed. The story of this tree-planter and of the Ashland monument is given elsewhere in this history. Mr. Duff is the author of "Little Stories of Old Sandusky," "Centennial History of Ashland," and of various pamphlets, besides some historical drarnalogues which were broadcast over WLW, Cincinnati, in programs of the Ohio School of the Air, State Department of Education. The dramalogues were enacted by WEAO Players of Ohio State University and the Crosley Players of WLW. One of the talks that Mr. Duff gives is on "The Call of the Cross Roads" which is the call of Opportunity, and the other is "The Johnny Appleseed Trail" which is the road of service above self. Mr. Duff's father was captain of Company M, Sixth Kansas Volunteer Cavalry, during the Civil War and his grandfather, Lafayette Markley, was a soldier in the Mexican War. William A. Duff was united in, marriage June 12, 1894, with Miss Carrie C. Cowan, daughter of Dr. Frank and Aretta (Bushnell) Cowan and granddaughter of Dr. Jacob P. Cowan who after serving two terms in the Ohio General Assembly represented, in the 44th U. S. Congress, the 14th Congressional District, then composed of the counties of Ashland, Richland, Crawford and Holmes. Mr. and Mrs. Duff have one daughter, Helen Elizabeth, born in Mansfield, June 3, 1903, and one son, John William Duff, born in Mansfield, Sept. 26, 1905. Helen was united in marriage with James M. Chalfant, an instructor in English at Ohio State University, on Christmas Day, 1376 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO 1923. They have two daughters, Anne Elizabeth Chalfant, born in Ashland, Sept. 24, 1925, and Martha Frances Chalfant, born in Columbus, Dec. 19, 1927. John W. Duff, who since March, 1927, has been doing classified advertising on the Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph (Gazette-Times when he joined the staff) was united in marriage May 4, 1930, with Miss Mildred Olive Pricer of Pittsburgh, Pa. Asesiba Farm takes its name, which its owner coined years ago, from the first letters of a line of Judge Walter Malone's poem on Opportunity: "At sunrise every soul is born again." Mr. Duff has been secretary of the Public Library Board since February, 1917. He is secretary of the Ashland County Historical Society and a member of the Ashland Rotary Club. J. K. Johnston. One of the pioneer business men of Mansfield, highly esteemed throughout Richland County, is J. K. Johnston, who is proprietor of the oldest marble and granite monumental works in this section of the state. He was born in a log house in Mansfield, Oct. 11, 1850, the son of Eleazor and Hannah (Kahle) Johnston. Both Eleazor Johnston and his wife were natives of Pennsylvania, and were among the earliest settlers of Richland. County, having located in Mansfield in 1848. He was a building contractor and erected some of the first residences in this city, which are still standing. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Mr. Johnston volunteered for service but at first was rejected on account of loss of sight in one eye. He was determined to serve his country, however, and at the time of his second enlistment was accepted as a member of Company A, 64th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was killed in action in 1863. His wife died in 1852. Mr. Johnston was a Republican and a member of the Methodist Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were born five children: Mary C., lives at Columbus, Ohio ; Benjamin Franklin, who died at Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1928, served during the Civil War as a sergeant in the 15th Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; William T., who died at Mansfield, served during the Civil War as a member of Company A, 64th Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; Henrietta, married W. B. Chapman, both deceased ; and J. K., the subject of this sketch. J. K. Johnston obtained his education in the public schools of Mansfield and learned the carpenter trade after his graduation from high school. He was employed by John Skeggs. Later he went to Philadelphia where he became an expert workman, being referred to by his fellow workers as "the carpenter from the West." Mr. Johnston returned to Mansfield and in 1877 engaged in the furniture business with M. P. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1377 Shambs. The following year he formed a partnership with David H. Earnst and they engaged in business at 174 North Main Street, later removing to North Park Street, where Charles Mercer purchased the interests of Mr. Earnst. Later A. J. Bortz succeeded Mr. Mercer as a member of the firm, which was thereafter known as Johnston & Bortz. The business was continued under this firm name for 20 years, until the death of Mr. Bortz, when Mr. Johnston continued the business until Sept. 1, 1905, when he disposed of his holdings to the Hoover-Rowlands Company. The following year he purchased an interest in the marble and granite business of Leonard Tressle and in 1908 acquired the entire business. Display rooms, offices, and shops are located at 30-38 North Diamond Street. On Oct. 24, 1872, Mr. Johnston married Miss Anna Weatherby, the daughter of Thaddeus and Margaret E. Weatherby, natives of Franklin County, Pa., both deceased. Mr. Weatherby served throughout the Civil War as a member of the 102nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was a well known resident of Mansfield. To J. K. and Anna (Weatherby) Johnston were born four children: 1. Margaret Ann, born May 15, 1874, deceased. 2. Maud A., born Dec. 29, 1878, the widow of S. W. Wilson, lives at Seattle, Wash. 3. Nellie E., married A. G. Wharton, lives at Lakeside, Ohio. 4. Anna Kahle, married Harry O'Brien, lives at Mansfield. They have three children: Catherine L., Lucille M., and Anna E. Mr. Johnston is a Republican and has served two terms as a member of the city council from the First Ward. He is an active member of the First Lutheran Church, having served as deacon for 25 years, treasurer for 15 years, and as Sunday School superintendent. He belongs to Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; and Mystic Club. Mr. and Mrs. Johnston live at 187 West First Street. Howard H. Hitchcock is a highly esteemed citizen and widely known business man of Ashland. He was born at Grafton, Medina County, June 18, 1874, the son of Henry Hobart and Eleanor S. (Breckenridge) Hitchcock. Henry Hobart Hitchcock, a native of Medina County, spent his entire life in North Central Ohio. He attended the public and high schools of Medina and for many years was associated in the manufacturing business with his father. He was interested in farming at the time of his retire- 1378 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO ment in 1919. He died in 1927 and his wife died in 1916. Both are buried at Grafton. Mr. Hitchcock was a Republican in politics and held the office of township trustee. He was a lifelong member of the Congregational Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Hitchcock were born four sons : C. P., lives at Lorain ; W. N., lives at Grafton ; Howard H., the subject of this sketch ; and Dwight B., lives at Grafton. Howard H. Hitchcock was reared and educated at Grafton and also attended Elyria High School. He spent four years as a general merchant at Randolph, Portage County, Ohio, and for 19 years engaged in general farming and fruit growing near Brunswick. He came to Ashland in October, 1919, and in partnership with Earnest Waite organized the Ashland Implement Company. After two years the company was purchased by the International Harvester Company, and Mr. Hitchcock continued as a sales representative until Aug. 1, 1930, when he resigned. On June 8, 1898, Mr. Hitchcock married Miss Delpha J. Stearns, of Brunswick, the daughter of Abijah and Eliza Ann (Stephenson) Stearns. Mr. Stearns was born at Brunswick, Medina County, Ohio, and died at that place in October, 1910, at the age of 80 years. His wife was born in New York and died Nov. 14, 1885. Delpha (Stearns) Hitchcock was born at Brunswick, Aug. 22, 1870. Her grandfather, James Stearns, came to Ohio from Pittsfield, Mass., making the trip overland by team, and located in Medina County on the present site of Brunswick, being one of the first three men to locate in Brunswick Township. He immediately acquired 90 acres of land in the Western Reserve in exchange for his property at Pittsfield, Mass., and spent the remainder of his life in this community. His son, Abijah, was a resident of the same farm throughout his life, and the homestead is now in the possession of Mr. and Mrs. Hitchcock. Eleanor (Ashley) Stearns, wife of James Stearns, came to Brunswick from Pittsfield, and survived her husband for several years. Mrs. Hitchcock's great-grandfather, Capt. John Stearns, served during the Revolutionary War, and was a member of a prominent English family. Mrs. Hitchcock has in her possession numerous family heirlooms, including table linens which were woven from flax grown on the Stearns homestead. Sterling silver spoons, owned by her grandmother Stearns, and shown at the Berkshire Agricultural Exhibition in Massachusetts in October, 1814, are among the interesting treasures, as are also numerous rare books, including the Stearns Hymnal, Sylvester Stephenson Universal Geography, published in 1816 ; the History of America, published in 1838 ; and History of Phillips War, published in 1836. Howard H. and Delpha J. (Stearns) Hitchcock have one son, Fred Hitchcock, born at Toledo, Ohio, Aug. 29, 1909. He is a graduate of Ash- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1379 land High School and attends Wooster College Conservatory of Music where he is specializing in the study of the violin. Mr. Hitchcock is a Republican, a member of the official board of the Methodist Church, and is affiliated with Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58. Mr. Hitchcock is the owner of two fine farms in Medina County, which contain 130 and 56 acres respectively. J. Freer Bittinger. As general agent of the Minnesota Mutual Life Insurance Company, Mr. Bittinger is widely known in insurance circles throughout Ashland County. He has offices in the Farmers Bank Building, Ashland. Mr. Bittinger was born in Green Township, Ashland County, May 1, 1886, the son of William T. and Arminda V. (Bowers) Bittinger. William T. Bittinger was a native of Monroe Township, Richland County. He attended Hayesville Academy and Heidelberg College. For many years he was the owner of a well improved farm in Ashland County, and moved to Ashland in 1917 where he remained until 1923, when he returned to the farm where he remained until his death which occurred at Chicago, March 26, 1930. From 1917 until 1923 Mr. Bittinger served as sealer of weights and measures in Ashland County. He was a Democrat and had served as a member of the Green Township school board and as township trustee. He belonged to the Reformed Church and Elks Lodge. His wife was a native of Iowa and died March 15, 1915. To Mr. and Mrs. Bittinger the following children were born : Earl C., lives at Galesburg, Ill. ; Clyde M., lives at Chicago ; Harry W., lives at Chicago ; Nellie S., married James Wilson, lives at Chicago ; J. Freer, the subject of this sketch ; Charity E., married Grover Trumpower, lives at Perrysville, Ohio; Mary, married Hershel Reinhart, lives at Hayesville ; and Leah L., who died in 1922, was the wife of Jay Eichelberger, who lives in Green Township. J. Freer Bittinger obtained his education in the district schools of Green Township. He was graduated from Vermilion Institute in 1906, and spent six years as a teacher. He then became interested in the laundry business at Loudonville, and in 1916 was elected auditor of Ashland County, at which time he located in Ashland. He served in that capacity until 1923, spent the following year as cashier of the Farmers Bank at Loudonville, and in 1924 was nominated for Congress on the Democratic ticket. He was not elected to office, however, and in 1925 became agent for Ashland County for the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. Mr. Bittinger was elected state representative from his county in 1380 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO 1928 and reelected in 1930, and was minority floor leader during the 89th General Assembly. On June 9, 1908, Mr. Bittinger was united in marriage with Miss Zella M. Ritchie, of Hayesville, the daughter of John M. and Mary (Robinson) Ritchie. Mr. Ritchie died in 1918, and his wife died in 1911. Both are buried at Hayesville. Mr. and Mrs. Bittinger are the parents of two children: Mary Arminda, born March 17, 1910, a graduate of Ashland High School, attends Ashland College, member of the class of 1931; and F. Ritchie, born May 26, 1911, a graduate of Ashland High School, attends Wooster College. Mr. Bittinger has always been a Democrat, and is now serving as a member of the Ashland School Board, having been elected to that body in 1927. He is also secretary of the Ashland County Agricultural Society. He and his family hold membership in the Presbyterian Church, and he has the following lodge affiliations : Hanover Lodge, F. & A. M. ; Ashland Chapter, Past High Priest ; Ashland Council ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; Al Koran Shrine. W. J. Tinkey, who has been identified with the F. E. Myers & Brother Company for a period of 50 years, is a widely known and highly esteemed citizen of Ashland. He was born on a farm east of Bellville, Richland County, Aug. 14, 1851, the son of John and Mary (Crumrine) Tinkey. John Tinkey was born in Washington County, Pa., Dec. 10, 1803, and died in 1868. He spent his early life in Pennsylvania, where he followed his trade as a blacksmith. Later he removed to Richland County and owned and operated a farm near Bellville until 1861, at which time he retired and moved to Ashland. Mr. Tinkey was a Democrat and held membership in the Lutheran Church. His wife was born at Baltimore, Md., April 19, 1808. Their children were : Sarah Ann, born Feb. 2, 1828; Frederick, born Sept. 29, 1829, served throughout the Civil War; Mary, born Jan. 1, 1832 ; John, born Feb. 15, 1834; Margaret Jane, born March 28, 1836 ; Barbara Ann, born April 15, 1838 ; Maria, born May 9, 1841; Lucinda, born Aug. 7, 1843 ; Isabel, born Dec. 26, 1845 ; David, born Feb. 26, 1848 ; and W. J., the subject of this sketch. All are deceased except Isabel and W. J. Tinkey. W. J. Tinkey spent his boyhood on his father's farm near Bellville, and. attended the public schools of Ashland, his parents having removed to this city when he was 11 years old. At an early age he entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother Company, and for the past 27 years he has served as foreman of the well pump erecting company. During the HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1381 early days of the company's history Mr. Tinkey not only erected the pumps but cut and formed the leathers, cut and threaded the pipes, and with the exception of making the castings performed most of the operations involved in the building of the pumps. Although now 80 years of age Mr. Tinkey retains an active interest in the business, with which he has so long been identified, and during its sales convention in 1930 he was one of the outstanding participants of the occasion. In 1877 Mr. Tinkey was united in marriage with Miss Alice Aukerman, the daughter of Adam and Chloe (Fortress) Aukerman. He was born in Wayne County, Ohio, and died in 1885. His wife, a native of Troy, Ohio, died in 1923, at the age of 83 years, and is buried at Burbank, Ohio. There were five children in the Aukerman family: 1. Willisa, married J. C. Brown, lives at St. Petersburg, Fla. 2. Alice Tinkey. 3. Edwin. 4. Charles. 5. Frank. The latter three live in Cleveland. To W. J. and Alice (Aukerman) Tinkey were born four children: 1. John D., born in 1879, lives in Ashland. He married Marie Bonnell, of Oberlin, Ohio, and they have a daughter, Frieda (Tinkey) Bruder. 2. Bernard A., born Dec. 29, 1881, lives in Ashland. He married Miss Ada Steele, of Ashland, and they have a daughter, Naomi (Tinkey) Kieffer. 3. Charles D., born in 1884, lives in Ashland. He married Miss Ethel Diffenbaugh, and they have a son, John . 4. Martha, born in 1893, married A. D. Chamberlin, lives at Xenia, and they have two children, Ned and Janet. Mr. Tinkey has always been a Democrat. He served for a number of years as president of the Ashland Board of Health. He holds membership in the First Methodist Episcopal Church, and is a member of the official board. Mr. and Mrs. Tinkey live at 612 Vine Street. They have a wide circle of friends in Ashland, where they have spent so many years, and are well liked. Jesse C. Shannon. As superintendent of the Ashland County Infirmary, Jesse C. Shannon, who is a veteran of the World War, is widely known throughout Ashland County. He was born on a farm in Pickaway County, Ohio, March 29, 1896, the son of Elmer Neil and Susan Catherine (Musselman) Shannon. Elmer Neil Shannon has spent practically his entire life in Pickaway County, and is the owner of a well improved farm near Ashville. His wife died June 1, 1920. They were the parents of the following children: Florence, married George Ringer ; Laura, married Jesse Doane, lives at Sunbury, Ohio ; Albert, lives at Delaware ; Jesse C., the subject of this sketch ; Martha, married George Beddow, lives at Sunbury ; Clara, married Grover Keys, lives at Sunbury ; Bertha, married Louis Macklin, lives 1382 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO at Delaware ; Robert, unmarried, lives at Delaware ; Alice, married Leslie Hedge, lives at Delaware ; and Oliver, unmarried, lives at Sunbury. Jesse C. Shannon grew up on his father's farm and attended the district schools. He operated a farm in Delaware County until 1921, at which time he formed a partnership with William Derr, as proprietors of the machine shop at Hayesville, Ohio. In the spring of 1923 Mr. Shannon sold his interests in the business and spent the following five years in the employ of the Ashland County Infirmary. He was then connected with the inspection department of the Union Malleable Company at Ashland until April 20, 1930, at which time he accepted the appointment of superintendent of the Ashland County Infirmary. In September, 1918, Mr. Shannon enlisted for service in the World War and was sent to Camp Sherman, Ohio. He was later transferred to Camp Johnson, at Jacksonville, Fla., being discharged from the service Jan. 17, 1919. On Sept. 17, 1924, Mr. Shannon married Miss Elsie Leona Brubaker, of Mifflin Township, Ashland County, the daughter of Reuben and Maud (Yater) Brubaker. Both Mr. and Mrs. Brubaker were born in Mifflin Township, Ashland County. He died Jan. 6, 1928, and his widow lives in Mifflin Township. Mr. and Mrs. Shannon have no children. Mr. Shannon is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America, and he and his wife hold membership in the Brethren in Christ Church. Henry F. Baum. One of the progressive business men of Ashland where he is well known as a building contractor, is found in Henry F. Baum, a member of one of the oldest families of Ashland County. He was born in Montgomery Township, Ashland County, Nov. 19, 1885, the son of Frank and Nettie (Ohl) Baum. Frank Baum, who died in 1928, was a well known resident of Ashland County. He was born in Mifflin Township, and spent his early life as a farmer. He came to Ashland in 1891 and for almost 40 years was successful as building contractor in this city. He died in 1928 and is buried in Ashland Cemetery. His widow resides in this city. Mr. Baum was a Democrat, and a lifelong member of the United Brethren Church. The only child born to Mr. and Mrs. Baum was Henry F., the subject of this sketch. Henry F. Baum received his education in the public schools of Ashland. He spent one year in the employ of the F. E. Myers & Brother Company, after which he followed the trade of carpenter for a five-year period. He then was connected with the Faultless Rubber Company and in 1920 HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1383 became interested in the building and contracting business, in which he has met with marked success. Among the fine residences built by Mr. Baum are included those of Dr. Meuser, William Kellogg, Dr. Riebel, Thomas Thornberg, Stewart Fluke, George Zehner and Judge C. C. Chapman. On Dec. 24, 1905, Mr. Baum was united in marriage with Miss Helen Eve Crone, of Ashland, the daughter of George and Letitia (Clark) Crone, natives of Ashland County. Mr. Crone resides in Ashland. His wife died in 1893 and is buried at Frankfort, Ind. Mrs. Baum was born in Indiana and educated in the public schools of Frankfort. Mr. and Mrs. Baum have a daughter, Ethel Letitia, born Jan. 30, 1910. She is a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1927, and attends Ashland College. Mr. Baum is a Democrat, a member of the United Brethren Church and Elks Lodge. Mr. Baum and his family live at 512 Eastern Avenue. Stanton L. Rupert. One of the representative young business men of Ashland County is Stanton L. Rupert, a World War veteran, who is cashier of the Farmers Bank, of Savannah. He was born at Polk, Ashland County, Dec. 25, 1893, the son of H. F. and Mary (Utz) Rupert. H. F. Rupert and his wife are natives of Ashland County and well known residents of Polk. He was reared and educated at West Salem and attended Ashland College. Mr. Rupert taught for a period of 19 years in the district schools of the county and devoted the summer seasons to his farming interests. He retired from teaching altogether in 1900 and at that time purchased a farm of 94 acres just east of Polk, where he now resides. He is a Democrat and a member of the Methodist Church. Samuel Utz, maternal grandfather of Stanton L. Rupert, served throughout the Civil War. To Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Rupert were born six children, as follows : Carrie, who lives at Cleveland, Ohio ; Stanton L., the subject of this sketch ; Chester, a World War veteran, lives in Cleveland ; Evelyn,' married Duane Keener, lives at West Salem; Clair, lives at Berea, Ohio ; and Opal, a teacher in the Ashland public schools. She is a graduate of Ashland College. Stanton L. Rupert grew up at Polk, where he received his early education. After his graduation from Ashland High School he spent two years at Ashland College, after which he taught in the public schools of Sullivan for one year. He then attended Baldwin Wallace College for a year, and returned to Ashland College, where he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1925. At the outbreak of the World War in 1917 Mr. Rupert enlisted in Company E, 146th Ohio Infantry, 37th Division, 1384 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO and was sent to Camp Sheridan, Ala. He was later transferred to Camp Leon Springs, Texas, and sailed in June, 1918, for active overseas service. He participated in numerous important engagements of the war and was discharged at Camp Sherman, Ohio, April 13, 1919. In January, 1920, Mr. Rupert became assistant cashier of the Polk State Bank, and after six months left that institution to become cashier of the Farmers Bank at Savannah, where he is at present located. He is also a director of the bank. In April, 1919, Mr. Rupert was united in marriage with Miss Alta Welch, of Cleveland, the daughter of Linden and Rosabelle (Marsh) Welch. Both were born at Sullivan, Ohio. Mr. Welch died in June, 1928, and his widow lives at Ashland. To Mr. and Mrs. Rupert have been born four daughters : Donna R., born Aug. 11, 1921; Marilyn Alice, born Feb. 14, 1928 ; Jeanne and Joanne, twins, born Aug. 31, 1929. Mr. Rupert is a Democrat in politics, and is treasurer of the Savannah Civic Improvement Club. He is an active member of the Methodist Church, and belongs to Sullivan Lodge, F. & A. M., West Salem Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, and American Legion. Edward William Dann, secretary of the Richland Mutual Insurance Company, is an able business man and substantial citizen of Mansfield. He was born at Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 23, 1869, the son of Jesse W. and Charlotte (Mumford) Dann. Jesse W. Dann was born on a farm near Camden, N. Y., in 1837. He was a carriage maker by trade and in 1859 entered the employ of Ide, Sage & Company, of Columbus, as a foreman, in their shops. He later purchased an interest in the business, the firm thereafter being known as Ide, Sage, Dann & Company. In 1882 Mr. Dann organized the J. W. Dann Manufacturing Company and served as its president until his death in 1893. They were manufacturers of carriages. Mr. Dann was a Republican and held membership in the Broad Street Methodist Church, Columbus. His wife was born at Scranton, Pa., in 1839, and died in 1909. Both are buried in Columbus. They were the parents of ten children, as follows : Phena, married John Nesbitt, lives at Columbus ; Jesse L., insurance, lives at Albany, Ga. ; Mary D., the widow of Rev. James W. McGruder, lives at Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Edward William, the subject of this sketch ; Editha, who is executive secretary of the Associated Charities at Zanesville, Ohio ; Lois, a teacher, lives at Columbus ; Walter M., lives at Sharon, Pa. ; Grace A., married John W. Rudin, lives at Mt. Vernon, Ohio; Florence D., married Starling Waddell, lives at Columbus ; and Charlotte L., lives at Columbus. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1385 Edward William Dann was educated in the public schools of Columbus and attended Ohio Wesleyan University. He was associated in business with his father for a number of years and became vice president of the firm. In 1899 he came to Mansfield as a bookkeeper for the Richland Mutual Insurance Company. He was promoted to assistant secretary in 1916 and since 1924 has been secretary of the company. In 1904 Mr. Dann built the first apartment building, but one, in Mansfield, which was something of an innovation, another building having been erected the previous year. This he owned and operated for ten years but later disposed of it. The building was located on the corner of Park Avenue and Benton Street and is known as "The Colonial." In 1894 Mr. Dann married Miss Florence Jenner, the daughter of Hon. John W. and Emily (Mack) Jenner, natives of Ohio. Judge Jenner was a prominent attorney and served as judge of the Fifth Judicial District of Ohio. Both he and his wife are deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Dann were born four children : 1. Dorothy, a graduate of Abbott Academy, Northampton, Mass., now employed in the offices of the Richland Mutual Insurance Company. 2. John J., a graduate of Oberlin College, lives at Atlanta, Ga. He married Miss Adena Orme, and they have two children, Mary Eleanor, and Richard Orme. He is identified with the Lowrey National Bank. 3. Mary D., married Walter L. Bell, who is manager of the Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, at Kansas City, Mo. They have a son, Gordon. 4. Edward William, Jr., a graduate of Mansfield High School, and Western Reserve University. He is identified with the Wagner Hardware Company, Mansfield. Mr. Dann is a Republican, a member of the First Congregational Church, and belongs to the Chamber of Commerce and West Brook Country Club. During 1927 he served as president of the Kiwanis Club. He is affiliated with Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 35 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; and Mystic Club. Richland County Mutual Insurance Company. This company was organized in 1850, being one of the pioneer fire insurance companies of Ohio. It was created not for the purpose of accumulating profits for itself, but for the sole purpose of serving its patrons with sound fire insurance protection at the least cost for such service. Like the child born in extreme weakness, with little to build on save good environment and good parental care, but which develops into strong manhood and develops wisdom and material wealth, Richland Mutual Insurance Company was born in ex- 1386 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO treme weakness from a material standpoint, with nothing to commend it save the integrity, good faith, and high purpose of its sponsors, men who were a force in their community and who attained outstanding success in their personal endeavors. They were men whose activities were not only written into the history of Mansfield but whose influence was vital in the affairs of Ohio as well. The organizers of the company were : Eben P. Sturges, Jacob Parker, Thomas W. Bartley, Robert Bentley, Charles T. Sherman, James Weldon, Andrew Conn, George W. Waring, and James Harvey Cook. The company has developed in a natural way, through conflagrations and years of business depression and panic until it has become a strong, sturdy institution with thousands of policy holders, a half million dollars of quick assets, and over two million dollars contingent assets, although its activities are confined to the State of Ohio alone. Its management has always been conservative and good underwriting practices have been observed, which accounts for its strong position in the business. In 80 years the company has had very few changes in officers and in that time has had but six presidents. The first president was Andrew Conn, one of the organizers of the company, who was succeeded in turn by Edward Sturges, James Harvey Cook, Hiram R. Smith, Abraham C. Cummins, and the present incumbent, J. Arthur Rigby. For more than one-half of the 80 years of its existence Mr. Richmond Smith presided over the immediate conduct of the business as its secretary, and he is well known throughout the state as a leading authority on insurance. He is now chairman of the board of directors, having been connected with the company for 56 years. The present officers are : J. Arthur Rigby, president ; S. A. Jennings, treasurer ; E. W. Dann, secretary ; and J. G. Wallace, assistant secretary. Ray V. Keen, who is widely known in Ashland as a building contractor, is a veteran of the World War. He was born near Albion, Ohio, Jan. 16, 1888, the son of Adam L. and Olive Jane( Berry) Keen. Adam L. Keen is a native of Ashland County where he has spent his entire life. He was reared on a farm near Albion, attended the rural schools, and Ashland College. He taught school for several years, after which he engaged in the mercantile business at Albion. He also held the office of postmaster of that place for six years. He has been a resident of Ashland since 1902, and is engaged in the building and contracting business, being associated with his son, Ray V. Keen. Mr. Keen is a HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1387 Democrat and a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Keen have two children : Inez M., married D. F. Troup, lives in Ashland ; and Ray V., the subject of this sketch. The early life of Ray V. Keen was spent at West Salem and Albion. He was 14 years old when his parents came to Ashland where he completed his schooling. Throughout his business career he has been interested in building and for a time was associated with his uncle, C. V. Berry, of Mansfield. In April, 1918, Mr. Keen volunteered for service in the World War and was sent to Camp Sherman, Ohio, where he was assigned to the 308th Engineers. That company sailed for France in June, 1918, and Mr. Keen participated in several major engagements of the war, including Chateau Thierry, the Marne, and Meuse-Argonne. His regiment was among the first to enter Germany as a part of the Army of Occupation after the Armistice, and he remained there until March 1, 1919, being discharged from the service at Camp Sherman, on July 7, 1919. Upon his return to Ashland Mr. Keen resumed his interest in the construction business, and during the past several years has completed more than 100 of the city's better class of residences. He has also drawn the plans and financed much of his construction work. Mr. Keen erected the Keen-Gongwer Building on East Main Street in 1926. On Oct. 18, 1924, Mr. Keen was united in marriage with Miss Luzetta K. Crone, of Ashland, who is a graduate of Ashland High School and Ashland College. She also attended Wooster College, and Kent State Normal School. Before her marriage she was a teacher in the Ashland public schools. She is the daughter of James L. and Flora (Kendig) Crone, of Ashland County. Mr. Crone died in 1930, and his widow lives on the Crone homestead, which is located south of Ashland. Mr. and Mrs. Keen have a daughter, Katherine Rae, born Dec. 19, 1925. Mr. Keen is a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and takes an active part in Sunday School work. He belongs to the American Legion, 40 and 8 Society, and B. P. 0. Elks. He is one of the city's champion bowlers, being a member of the city bowling league, of which he is also treasurer. John Keen, paternal ancestor of Mr. Keen, was among the first settlers of Ashland County and was the first to hold the office of county surveyor in Ashland County. In October, 1926, Mr. Keen was awarded a gold medal in the "best selling homes in America contest." This award was by the National Builders Association, for having erected dwellings which meet the requirements of architectural beauty, sound construction, practical requirements of public acceptance, and that he is entitled to full recognition for this achievement from his fellow craftsmen and American home owners. 1388 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Upton Andress. Perhaps one of the most prominent attorneys of Ashland County is found in Upton Andress, who has successfully engaged in the practice of law at Hayesville for more than half a century. He was born in Montgomery Township, Ashland County, Sept. 12, 1855, the son of Samuel D. and Sarah (Hildebrant) Andress. The Andress family is of Scotch descent. Samuel D. Andress was born in Ashland County, and throughout his life engaged in general farming. For a number of years he also was a mail carrier between Hayesville and Loudonville. He died in 1906 and his wife, also born in Ashland County, died in 1883. Both are buried in Eckley Cemetery. He was a Democrat. There were eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Andress as follows : Loretta Stover, who died in 1925; Upton, the subject of this sketch ; Dillman, lives at Hayesville ; Mary C., married John Wharton, lives at Ashland ; Anna, the widow of Cyrus Reading, lives at Akron; Dora, the widow of John Teeple, lives at Akron ; B. F., lives at Hayesville; and H. E., lives at Akron. The early education of Upton Andress was received in the schools of Hayesville, and he is a graduate of Vermilion Institute. As a young man he followed the cabinet making trade for eight years and in the meantime read law in the offices of David Fox, at Hayesville. He established his own practice here in 1880, and besides the general practice of law, handled general insurance, collections, and real estate. He has always taken a prominent part in the civic life of the community and for 16 years served as mayor of Hayesville. He also held the office of postmaster under President Grover Cleveland, which he resigned in favor of D. M. Sigler, who still serves in that capacity. Mr. Andress was one of the organizers of the Ashland Bank & Savings Company, Ashland. On numerous occasions he has served as a member of the city council. He has been a lifelong Democrat and for many years has been a member of the central and executive committees. He has also been a delegate to numerous state conventions, having attended his first convention when 21 years of age. Mr. Andress is the owner of several valuable pieces of real estate in Hayesville, as well as two fine farms near the city, each of which contains 154 acres. He also deals in stocks and bonds, and continues his law practice. Mr. Andress was married (first) on April 12, 1888, to Miss Myrtle Smalley, of Ashland. They had no children. He was married (second) on June 28, 1905, to Miss Millicent Coe, of Mifflin, Ohio. To them were born two children: 1. Samuel C., born June 27, 1906, a graduate of Roswell Military Academy, at Roswell, N. M. He also attended Wooster College, Wittenberg University, and was graduated from the University of Cincinnati with the degree of LL. B. He has since been identified with HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1389 the law firm of Waters, Andress, Hagelbecker, Wise & Maxon, at Akron, Ohio. 2. Janet Irene, born in February, 1914, a graduate of Hayesville High School, attends Lake Erie College, Painesville. Mr. Andress is a member of the Presbyterian Church and belongs to the Knights of Pythias. Orin D. Culler, who is identified with the Culler-Swank & Company, of Loudonville, is a reliable and highly successful business man of Ashland County. He was born near Lucas, in Richland County, April 16, 1866, the son of B. F. and Letitia (Robinson) Culler. B. F. Culler was born in Richland County and his wife was a native of West Virginia. Practically his entire life was spent as a farmer in Richland County, where he died in 1923. He was a Democrat and held membership in the Lutheran Church. His widow is now 90 years of age. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Culler: E. E., farmer, lives in Monroe Township, Richland County ; Orin D., the subject of this sketch ; Alta, deceased ; and Mrs. Myrtle Kaylor, Monroe Township, Richland County, with whom the mother now resides. Orin D. Culler attended the district schools and also Greentown Academy, at Perrysville. As a young man he engaged in general farming and later spent 15 years in partnership with his brother as owners of a sawmill and timber business in Richland County. Mr. Culler came to Loudonville in 1906, and at that time became associated in the lumber and milling business with S. J. Aungst. The latter disposed of his interests after a time to Edward Spreng and the Wolf Brothers, the business thereafter being known as Culler-Spreng & Wolf. After several years Mr. Spreng retired from the firm and at that time H. M. Swank and J. A. Helbert purchased the Wolf interests, the business being reorganized as Culler-Swank & Company. Mr. Culler is in charge of the company's offices, with Mr. Swank as manager of the lumber mill and shops. They operate a large planing mill, as well as wood working machinery, and are extensive dealers in roofing materials and milling supplies. They also operate a branch lumber yard at Perrysville. Mr. Culler is also a director of the Flexible Company, of Loudonville. In 1906 Mr. Culler was united in marriage with Miss Mary L. Fox, of Monroe Township, Richland County, the daughter of H. and Sarah (Mowers) Fox. Mr. Fox died in 1927 and is buried in Mt. Zion Cemetery. His widow lives in Monroe Township. Two sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Culler: 1. Clarence H., born in 1908, a graduate of Loudonville High School, attended Wooster College for two years, now a student in Mechan- 1390 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO ical Engineering at Ohio State University. 2. Richard C., born in April, 1912, a graduate of Loudonville High School, class of 1930, attends Ohio State University. Mr. Culler is a Democrat and takes an active interest in civic affairs. He has served for several terms as a member of the city council and is president of the Chamber of Commerce. He is an elder of the Presbyterian Church, and is affiliated with Loudonville Lodge, F. and A. M. ; Loudonville Chapter ; and Knights of Pythias. He also belongs to the Rotary Club. John Wesley Brubaker. Numbered among the prominent citizens and successful business men of Ashland County, is John Wesley Brubaker, of Savannah, who is a member of one of the oldest and best known families in this section of the state. He was born on the Brubaker homestead in Milton Township, Ashland County, Aug. 11, 1859, the son of George and Sarah (Cotner) Brubaker. George Brubaker was born in Lancaster County, Pa., March 14, 1835, and died Nov. 6, 1918. He is buried in Ashland. He was for many years an influential figure in the financial life of Ashland County, having lived in retirement after devoting many years of his life to agriculture. He was a member of a family which for over a century has been identified with the farming and business interests of this part of Ohio. The family, of Swedish extraction, came to Ohio from Pennsylvania, where they had settled at an early date, the great-great-grandfather in 1710 having located on a tract of land embracing 1,000 acres in Lancaster County, Pa. His descendants have occupied 500 acres of this original homestead for almost 200 years. The paternal grandparents of George Brubaker were Benjamin and Martha Brubaker, both natives of Pennsylvania. Among their children was Peter Brubaker, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1804. He was married in 1827 to Catherine Albert, also a native of Lancaster County, born in 1809. At an early age Peter Brubaker located in Ashland County, being among the pioneers of this section. With the assistance of his son, George, he erected a log cabin and cleared his land. He was a Whig in early life and later a supporter of the Democratic party, being a personal friend of James Buchanan. He held membership in the Mennonite Church, and was the father of 12 children. George Brubaker, father of the subject of this sketch, was reared and educated in Ashland County. He was numbered among the successful farmers and stockmen of the county until his retirement in 1902, when he removed to Ashland, and spent the remainder of his life in that city. He HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1391 was married in 1856 to Miss Sarah Cotner, and they were the parents of 12 children, as follows: John Wesley, the subject of this sketch ; Peter; Jacob ; Ettie McCarty ; Norma Eby ; George Washington ; Sadie Hauck, resides in Cleveland ; Harley C.; Ida May ; Albert ; Emma; and Catherine. From 1888 until 1895 George Brubaker served as county commissioner, holding the office two years by election and one year by appointment. He was a member of the Disciples Church, Masonic Lodge, and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Sarah (Cotner) Brubaker died June 10, 1923, and is buried in Ashland. John Wesley Brubaker grew up on his father's farm in Milton Township and attended the district school. He is also a graduate of Savannah Academy and Ashland College, and for 23 years was a teacher in the Ashland County schools. He then spent a number of years in business in Ashland as a member of the firm of Kohler-Kagy & Brubaker, shoe dealers. After his marriage Mr. Brubaker became interested in farming in Milton Township, and later owned a well improved farm in Butler Township, Richland County. Upon his return to Ashland County he owned and operated a farm in Clear Creek Township until 1925, when he removed to Savannah. Mr. Brubaker has extensive real estate interests throughout Ashland County. In November, 1888, Mr. Brubaker married Miss Sadie Dull, the daughter of Benjamin and Catherine (Chrise) Dull, who were natives of Pennsylvania, both now deceased. Mr. Dull was a Civil War veteran. To Mr. and Mrs. Brubaker were born nine children: 1. Naomi, married L. C. McClain, lives in Clear Creek Township, and they have five children: Lawrence, Josephine, Benjamin, Sarah, and Mary. 2. Roland, lives in Clear Creek Township. He married Miss Grace Smith, and they have four children, Edward, Donald, Galen, and Eva Jeanne. 3. Pauline, married Ralph Ekey, lives in Clear Creek Township, and they have three children, David, Marian, and Myron. 4. Catherine, married Charles Friday, lives at Savannah, and they have a son, Dean. 5. George, lives at Jeromesville, and is a veteran of the World War. He married Miss Oleta Myers. 6. Mary, married William Whitmore, lives at Lodi. 7. Frances, lives at home. 8. Bernice, lives at home. 9. Martha, a student. Mr. Brubaker is a Democrat and has held the office of county commissioner from 1914 until 1918. He may justly be called one of the pioneers in the good roads movement in Ashland County, having been an enthusiast in this program during the early days with Charles Kale and Henry Greshner. Mr. Brubaker was a candidate for state representative from this district in 1920, but was defeated. He is a member of the Church of Christ at Clear Creek, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Grange. 1392 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Dr. F. Walter Boyer, of Wadsworth, is perhaps one of the best known and most successful professional men of Medina County, and he is also numbered among the representative business men of this section. He was born at Wadsworth, June 16, 1870, the son of Frank H. and Mary E. (Leiter) Boyer. F. Walter Boyer attended the public schools of Wadsworth and was graduated from high school in 1886. He received the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Michigan in 1893. Doctor Boyer was identified with The Wadsworth Salt Company as general manager for over a quarter of a century, and was one of the organizers of The First National Bank of Wadsworth. At the present time he is interested in the commercial production of Tung oil in America. This oil has been produced exclusively in China for the world's demands, and during the past five years, Tung oil, with American rosin, has revolutionized the manufacture of paints, varnishes, and linoleum from treated linseed oil and fossil gums. Doctor Boyer was the organizer of the Gulf Coast Tung Oil Development Company of North America. The prediction has been that within a quarter of a century tank steamers will load from Mississippi and Louisiana ports, in open competition with China, for the markets of the world, with over one million acres in active production in the Gulf coast territory of these two states alone. Doctor Boyer served as mayor of Wadsworth from January, 1914, until 1922, four terms of two years each. He is secretary of the Wadsworth Chapter, American Red Cross, one of the ten banner chapters of the United States, which was awarded by the national headquarters at Washington, D. C., for the high degree of efficiency and quality of the hospital supplies produced. Doctor Boyer was president of the Medina County War Board, which secured first rank in 155 local war boards in the State of Ohio during the World War. He was the first vice president of the Brookside Country Club. Doctor Boyer is a prominent Mason, having been raised to a Master Mason in Lodge No. 262, Feb. 28, 1893, at Ann Arbor, Mich. He was exalted in Portage Chapter, No. 202, March 22, 1923 ; advanced in Akron Council, No. 80, April 19, 1923 ; was created a Knight Templar in Bethany Commandery, No. 72, Sept. 24, 1923 ; created a Grand Elect Mason in Eiladah Lodge of Perfection, Nov. 6, 1923 ; created Prince of Jerusalem in Bahurim Council, Nov. 7, 1923 ; created a Knight of Rose Croix in Ariel Chapter, Nov. 7, 1923 ; created a Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret in Lake Erie Consistory, Nov. 9, 1923. He is a member of Tadmore Temple Mystic Shrine of Akron ; and Elks at Barberton, Ohio. On Nov. 21, 1894, Doctor Boyer married Miss Emma Maud McCray, of Ashland, Ohio, the daughter of Hon. John T. and Minerva A. McCray. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1393 Doctor Boyer's father was Frank H. Boyer, the son of William F. and Catherine Boyer; his mother, Mary E. Leiter, was the daughter of Rev. Dr. Samuel B. and Eliza R. Leiter. His parents both died in his early childhood, and as a result he was raised to young manhood by his grandparents, Rev. Dr. and Mrs. S. B. Leiter. Rev. Leiter was a minister of the Reformed Church of America. The grandfather, William F. Boyer, was associated with J. K. Durling, Dr. C. N. Lyman, and W. Pitt Curtis, in conducting the first bank in Wadsworth, known as the Wadsworth Bank, which was the beginning of the present Wadsworth Savings & Trust Company. In the records of the great struggle for the nation's life, the War of the Rebellion, the part borne by the boys of Wadsworth was one worthy to be recorded in the history of that village. The first enlistments were in the 29th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company H, led by Frank H. Boyer, together with his boyhood chums, Thomas Folger, Eli Overholt, in after years, for a long term, postmaster at Wadsworth, and Hiram Root. These boys enlisted Oct. 28, 1861. Frank H. Boyer and Thomas Folger were in the battles of Winchester, Port Republic, Cedar Mountain, second Bull Run, and Gettysburg. Frank H. Boyer served his time of enlistment and re-enlisted for one year in Hancock's Veteran Corps, serving four years to the day. Thomas Folger also re-enlisted and served with Sherman in his March to the Sea ; Root and Overholt were both wounded and taken prisoners ; exchanged and discharged on account of their wounds, after a number of months spent in different hospitals. From a father, who enlisted for four years of service, at the call from his country, the patriotism passed to the son, as shown by his record as a fearless magistrate of the village of Wadsworth, and the head of the War Board for Medina County, doing his duty with efficiency and honesty to rich and poor alike, as the following testify: Extract from "The Wadsworth Banner-Press," first page editorial, of Aug. 7, 1919: "Primaries for the nomination of village and township officials will be held throughout Ohio next Tuesday. From the candidates nominated at this time, officials will be chosen to conduct the business of the various municipalities and townships for two years commencing Jan. 1, 1920. In Wadsworth village this is a particularly important event. This village has an electric light plant, water plant and artificial ice plant, possessions which have been acquired during the past few years. Despite adverse conditions imposed by the war, these municipal properties have made good and under good business management have an excellent future. Wadsworth, however is outgrowing the electric light plant and much must be added and more power maintained to meet present and future needs. The water problem has been satisfactorily solved by the installation of meters. Now 1394 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO that the waste has been eliminated we find our water supply sufficient for all purposes. The construction of a $60,000 filter plant, now under way, will purify the water and make it equal to any in the state. The artificial ice plant has been able to furnish enough ice for all residents of the village at prices lower than in surrounding towns, while the ice is of superior quality. Additional storage must be secured so that the plant can be kept in operation summer and winter. This will provide sufficient ice from the present equipment to care for our increasing needs, for some time to come. The ice plant is the best paying of Wadsworth's municipal properties and with plenty of storage room can be made more profitable next summer. It will not only take care of its own bonded debt, but will help lower our rate of taxation. Had any one of these projects failed to make good, the entire blame would have fallen upon Mayor F. Walter Boyer, who was largely responsible for municipal ownership of public utilities in Wadsworth. Since Wadsworth has proven the exception and her municipal plants are succeeding in spite of what many predicted, who deserves the credit? Boyer, of course. Mayor F. Walter Boyer has given Wadsworth services which could not have been purchased for less than $5,000 per year. Municipal business has been cared for in a businesslike manner. He has dug deeply into the problems of the village until he found a solution. He has made the mayoralty of Wadsworth a man's size job and he is big enough to fill it with credit to himself and honor to the village. Which brings up the old adage, 'Don't swap horses in the middle of the stream.' When you go to the primary next Tuesday, write the name F. Walter Boyer at the head of your ticket under the words, `For Mayor.' Boyer's name is not on the ticket. He is not an office seeker. But if nominated and elected he will give Wadsworth a repetition of his former administrations—which means that we will have one hundred cents in value for every dollar expended." An open letter to Mayor F. Walter Boyer, from Rev. W. S. Shelley, of Chicago, Ill., published in the Wadsworth Banner-Press, Jan. 29, 1920: "Commends Mayor's Action. Former Resident Boosts Municipal Coal Yard. An Open Letter to Chicago, Ill., Jan. 23, 1920. Hon. F. Walter Boyer, Mayor, Wadsworth, Ohio. My Dear Sir :— Having noted your suggestion in the Banner-Press relative to a Municipal Coal Yard for Wadsworth, I could not refrain from saying 'bully for you.' While I have not always been in agreement with everything you proposed and did, I always admired you for your vision and farsightedness. Few mayors of either large or small cities would dare come out in favor of such projects as you have sponsored ; you are on the right track ; HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1395 keep agoing. Incidentally, I would say that it would contribute much to the efficiency and the practicability of your plan, if Uncle Sam only owned the railroads and would lay down a carload of coal at Wadsworth's door as cheaply and efficiently as he delivers our mail. Going a step farther still, if Uncle Sam only owned the mines from which the coal is taken, he could afford to pay miners well, eliminate all but overhead and depreciation costs, selling it direct to your Honor for the dear people's benefit, stripped of all excessive freight rates and middlemen's profits. Undoubtedly you could make the citizens of Wadsworth happy with cheap ice in the summer; cheap light in times of darkness and cheap coal in winter. Undoubtedly you would become a pioneer in principles being adopted the world over, and already advocated by all wide-awake, progressive souls like yours. Congratulations to you. May the citizens of Wadsworth, to a man, back you up in this effort. I am for you strong on this project. May you succeed. Sincerely, Rev. W. S. Shelley, 1500 W. 72nd Place, Chicago, Ill. MEDINA COUNTY FIRST LOCAL WAR BOARD. COMPLIMENTED BY GOV. COX. "The Wadsworth Banner-Press, Oct. 17, 1918, reported that Mayor F. Walter Boyer, chairman of the Medina County War Draft Board, received the following telegram in connection with his handling the affairs of the War Dept. in Medina County : `Columbus, Ohio, Oct. 13, 1918, Western Union, 5:32 p. m. Dr. F. Walter Boyer, Chairman, Local War Board Medina County, Wadsworth, Ohio. Congratulate you on being the first board in Ohio to reach column seven.    Cox.' " The editor of "Finance & Industry" recently said of Dr. Boyer: "* * * It has been my pleasure to know Dr. F. Walter Boyer, personally, for 35 years and to know of his business affiliations and advances through the years. As to his honesty and his integrity there can be no question,—only that there might be more like him. With a trained mind, such as would be expected of an engineer or professional man, which Dr. Boyer is, he exhausts every subject he looks into. He is outstandingly thorough and alert, has a record of good judgment in dealing and also the qualifications of being able to cooperate with those about him. In private life as well as a public official his standard of morals always has been of 1396 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO the highest ; in all things of moment he is ethical and in the same measure never lacking in perspicuity. In public office he pioneered in new endeavors and attracted state-wide attention for law enforcement and dealing fairly—at the same time squarely—with the public and corporate interests. This is in no wise exaggeration, but can be supported by details in abundance ; Dr. Boyer deserves it all, and more." Miss Rae Bailey, of Savannah, was born in the Bailey homestead on South Main Street, Savannah, July 24, 1879, the only daughter of Thomas Wesley and Amelia Ann (Shane) Bailey. She is a great-granddaughter of Abel Bailey, one of Ashland County's stalwart pioneers whose biography appears in both Knapp's and Hill's Histories of Ashland County, and is an only granddaughter of John R. Bailey, Sr., deceased, who was one of Savannah's most beloved, loyal and worthy citizens. Miss Bailey has three living brothers : Lucius Warren, one of the managers of the Rowe Store Company, of Bucyrus, Ohio, where he resides. He married Clara Josephine Poag of Ashland. John R., and Thomas Oscar, both of whom reside in Akron, Ohio, where they have for many years conducted an automobile tire store known as the Akron Tire Sales Company ; John Bailey married Gertrude Gavin of Chicago, Ill.; and Thomas 0., married Elta M. Leistensnider of Savannah, Ohio. After finishing the grade schools of Savannah, Miss Bailey entered Savannah Academy, where she fitted herself for a school teacher, in which profession she spent six consecutive years—two years at the Brindle Country School, (Sub-district No. 6, of Clear Creek Township, Ashland County,) one mile east of Savannah, and for four years taught the first four grades in the Savannah public schools. During her years as a teacher she was a faithful attendant at all county and district teachers' meetings, and for three years was secretary of the Ashland County Teachers Association. She also endeavored to become more proficient in her profession by attending summer school at Wooster, Ohio, several summers, and on Aug. 4, 1900, during her work at Wooster, she had the good fortune to win first place on a declamatory contest for which she received 20 volumes of classic literature, having previously won a similar victory in a contest in Savannah. During her school years, both grades and academy, and during her years as a teacher, she was active in her community in a musical way, rendering a great deal of service along that line in the church and at many public and social gatherings. In 1903, Miss Bailey entered Oberlin Business College and after finishing her course there, spent 20 months as stenographer and bookkeeper in HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1397 Elyria, Ohio, holding first a temporary position for eight months with the Elyria Hardware Company, and for a year was employed by the Federal Mfg. Company and its successor, the Garford Company, in their bookkeeping department, going froth there to Cleveland, where on Dec. 14, 1905, she entered the office of Griswold & White, later Griswold, White & Hadden, a prominent law firm, where she held a position for ten years. Miss Bailey resigned her position with the above law firm to accept a position as confidential stenographer to Senator Atlee Pomerene, Washington, D. C., at that time Democratic Senator from Ohio, being an employe in Senator Pomerene's office at the time of the World War, and she was also a member of the Senator's force of campaign workers in 1916, with headquarters at Columbus, Ohio, at which time he and President Woodrow Wilson were both returned to their high places of honor. Because of failing health, Miss Bailey was forced to leave Washington and for a time relinquish all work. She returned to her home in Savannah in December, 1917, and soon thereafter, while with a brother in Akron, Ohio, became interested in the science of chiropractic, experiencing its splendid benefits as a health measure, which led to a deeper interest, resulting in her enrollment as a student at the Palmer School of Chiropractic, Davenport, Iowa. After securing her degree as Doctor of Chiropractic, she returned to her home in Savannah. The question of a field in which to practice her newly acquired profession was considered, but the problem solved itself, as many problems do when one is in the line of duty. While carrying on the home responsibilities, many persons called upon her professionally, so that it was but a short time until she had established a chiropractic office in her home where, since October, 1919, she has enjoyed a splendid practice, ministering to the ills of many persons over a wide reaching territory. During that time, too, she has rendered considerable service to her community. On Jan. 3, 1921, she was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Board of Education of the Savannah Village School District, to which place she was again elected at the November, 1921, election, and on Sept. 28, 1922, she received notification of her appointment by the Ashland County Board of Education as one of the members of the newly created district known as the Savannah-Clear Creek Rural School District, formed by consolidating the village of Savannah, Clear Creak Township, and a portion of Orange Township. She was chosen president of the new board, which office she filled until the close of her services as a board member, Jan. 1, 1928. At the November, 1923, election, she was re-elected for a four-year term. At the organization of the Savannah Civil Improvement Club, Feb. 13, 1926, Miss Bailey was elected secretary, and has been very active in all its endeavors toward civic betterment. Each year since its 1398 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO organization the club has put on a summer chautauqua besides other entertainments, but its outstanding program was on June 27, 1928, when it sponsored a Savannah-Savannah Academy Home Coming when around 1,000 persons assembled in Academy Park, Savannah, where they enjoyed a picnic dinner together on the lawn beneath the old pine trees. Later, a fine program and dedication of a cobblestone monument to the founder of Savannah and to the founder of Savannah Academy took place. Miss Bailey is a member of Ashland Chapter No. 92, Order of Eastern Star, and of the Ashland County Historical Society, and is a member of the Ashland County Democratic Women's Central Committee. The Bailey family is one of the oldest families of Savannah. Thomas Wesley Bailey, father of Rae Bailey, was born on the Bailey farm, one mile south of Savannah, on March 30, 1848. He married Amelia Ann Shane, daughter of Rachel Cotton Shane, widow of William Shane, on July 18, 1871. Amelia Ann Shane was born in Holmes County, Ohio, March 12, 1851, but lived in Tuscarawas County, near Dover, until about 1865, when she moved with her mother and sister, Sarah Acantha, to Savannah, where she has since lived. Mr. Bailey was a hardware merchant, built a store and conducted a hardware and tinner's business in Savannah for many years. Later, he was in the wool buying business with his father, John R. Bailey, Sr. In 1877 Mr. Bailey built the home on South Main Street, where Miss Rae Bailey and her mother now reside. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey celebrated their golden wedding on July 18, 1921. Mr. Bailey died Sept. 8, 1924, and is buried in Savannah Cemetery. Politically, the Bailey family back through the years have been Democrats. Religiously, they have adhered to the tenets of the Baptist denomination, and were loyal supporters of the Baptist Church which existed for many years in Savannah. William C. Copland, deceased, was one of Ashland County's prominent pioneer citizens, of Savannah. He was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Jan. 31, 1840, the son of John and Mary Ann (Geddes) Copland. John Copland was born in Scotland, May 11, 1804, and his wife, a native of the same country, was born in 1806. The family came to America and settled north of Adario, Butler Township, Richland County, in 1853. He purchased a farm of 160 acres, and until his retirement was numbered among the progressive farmers of the county. Later, he lived at Savannah in the present Copland residence. John Copland died July 30, 1888, and his wife died in February, 1865. Both are buried at Savannah. He was a Republican and held membership in the Presbyterian Church. The HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1399 following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Copland: Mary, deceased; James, deceased ; Samuel, deceased ; and William C., the subject of this sketch ; and Rev. George.G., mention of whom is made below. Rev. George G. Copland, who died at Bluffton, Ind., Feb. 23, 1920, at the age of 77 years, was a pioneer in the ministry of the Presbyterian Church in the middle west. He came to this country from Scotland with his parents in 1853, at the age of 11 years. He studied for the ministry after his graduation from Savannah Academy and Wittenberg College, being a graduate of Western Theological Seminary, at Allegheny, Pa. He was ordained to the ministry in 1876, and during his long and useful career served as pastor at the following cities: Hayesville, Shilo, Rome, and Upper Sandusky, Ohio ; Bluffton, Ind. ; Ipava, Ill.; Bushnell, Ill.; Broadhead, Wis.; Eaton, Milnersville, and Antrim, Ohio ; and Cairo, W. Va. He retired from active work after 37 years in the ministry. Reverend Copland was married in 1886 to Miss Ida Deam, and they were the parents of three children: Mrs. William H. Moyer, lives at Kaw, Okla.; Arthur G., deceased ; and George V., lives at Commanche, Okla. The Copland family sailed from Scotland in the sailing vessel, "Jane Boyd," for America in 1853, the voyage requiring six weeks. They immediately settled near Adairo, Butler Township, Richland County, coming to the home of James Beveridge, an uncle. William C. Copland attended the district schools, and at the outbreak of the Civil War enlisted under Gen. John A. Logan, with whom he served throughout the war period. He participated in such important battles as Champion Hill, Vicksburg, Black River, and Nashville. He became a charter member of James Crawford Post, Grand Army of the Republic, Adario. For a number of years Mr. Copland was interested in the lumber business in Indiana and upon his return to Ohio, he owned and operated a livery business at Savannah. He spent 12 years as an officer at the Ohio State Hospital, Newburgh, Cleveland, and then farmed on the Glendale Farm just west of Savannah. Mr. Copland also carried mail between New London and Ashland for a period of four years, after which he resumed his farming interests until 1914, when he retired and moved to Savannah, where he died, April 6, 1931. Mr. Copland was noted for the making of axe handles by hand after coming to Savannah. Mr. Copland was married (first) in 1887 to Miss Mary Thompson, of Scotland, who is deceased. To this union two sons were born: Charles, married Miss Anna Hedrick, lives in Cleveland, and they have two children, Mary and William ; and John Roscoe, lives in Cleveland. Mr. Copland was married (second) June 28, 1897, to Sarah Elizabeth (Way) Wilson, of Lucas, Richland County, the daughter of Samuel and Maria (Millinger) Way, natives of Lancaster, Pa., and Putnam County, Ohio, respectively.