(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) 1450 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO J. F. Guild spent his early life in Scotland and attended West End Academy in Dundee. He is also a graduate of Dundee College and Edinboro College. Mr. Guild followed his profession as a public accountant and auditor in Scotland until 1910. He then came to the United States and settled in Lorain, where he was employed as an expert accountant in the steel mills. He established offices of his own in Elyria in 1922, and removed to Lorain in 1929. He is still a resident of Elyria. In 1901 Mr. Guild was united in marriage with Miss Bessie Milligan, of Dundee, the daughter of William and Bessie Milligan. Both are deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Guild were born three children: 1. Jennie, born in Dundee, in 1903, married Herbert Edwards, of Elyria. They have two children, James and William. 2. Herbert, born in Dundee in 1908, a graduate of Elyria High School and Wooster College. He is interested in the advertising business in Elyria. 3. Bessie, born at Lorain in 1912, died in 1923. Mr. Guild is a Democrat and holds membership in the Congregational Church. Galen Edwin Moyer, M. D. One of the outstanding physicians and surgeons of North Central Ohio is Doctor Moyer, who is successfully engaged in the practice of his profession in Elyria, with offices in the Elyria Savings & Trust Company Building. He was born at Mifflintown, Pa., March 22, 1888, the son of Samuel Jefferson and Margaret Bell (Dunn) Moyer. Samuel Jefferson Moyer, deceased, was a native of Pennsylvania and his wife was born in Virginia. He spent his early life in Philadelphia and Harrisburg and attended an academy at Schumaker, Pa. He entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at an early age and after serving as locomotive fireman and engineer, he was appointed chief motor power engineer of the Pittsburgh and Erie Division, in which capacity he served until his retirement in 1920. Mr. Moyer died in 1930 and his wife died in 1921. Both are buried at Mifflintown, Pa. He was a Democrat and belonged to the Masonic Lodge, B. P. 0. Elks, and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. To Mr. and Mrs. Moyer were born five children: 1. Irving G., lives at Greensburgh, Pa. 2. Galen Edwin, the subject of this sketch. 3. Lou, lives at Newark, N. J. 4. Martha, married Doctor Borgan, lives at Portland, Ore. 5. Elda McCoskley, lives at Newark, N. J. Galen Edwin Moyer obtained his early education in Blair County, Pa., and attended a preparatory school, Mt. Hermon School, Mt. Hermon, Mass., He received the degree of Bachelor of Science from Pennsylvania State HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1451 College and the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the Univrsity of Pittsburgh in 1916. He served his interneship at St. Francis Hospital, Pittsburgh. In 1914 he had enlisted in the U. S. Navy Officers Reserve Corps, and seven days after the United States entered the World War in 1917 be became active in the service with the rank of lieutenant, junior grade. Later he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant commander, U. S. Navy, and served on the hospital ship, U. S. S. Mercy. He also saw active service in France and was discharged in October, 1919. Immediately Doctor Moyer established a private practice in Elyria, where he is recognized as a leading surgeon. During 1930 he spent four months in graduate study in Europe and studied in the clinic of Dr. Isaac Eiselberg, famous surgeon of Vienna. Doctor Moyer is staff surgeon at the Elyria Memorial Hospital. In 1916 Doctor Moyer was married at Detroit, Mich., to Miss Nina Marion VanAuken, of Philadelphia, the daughter of Horace and Sarah (Broughton) VanAuken, both natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. VanAuken is identified with the Bethlehem Steel Company as a mechanical engineer. He and his wife live at Wildwood, N. J. Two children born to Doctor and Mrs. Moyer died in infancy. Doctor Moyer is affiliated with the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Elyria Country Club. He and his wife lives at 369 Eastern Heights Boulevard, Elyria. Paul Wainwright. One of Elyria's prominent citizens and successful business men is Paul Wainwright, who is the proprietor of Wainwright's greenhouses, 128 Courtland Street. He was born at Lisbon, Columbiana County, Ohio, Jan. 23, 1892, the son of Luke and Elizabeth (Bramley) Wainwright. Luke Wainwright and his wife were natives of Derbyshire, England. As a boy of nine years he was employed in the coal mines of England and during his entire life time was a miner. After his arrival in the United States Mr. Wainwright lived with his family at Lisbon and was employed in the mines of Columbiana County. He died in 1929 and is buried at Lisbon. His widow still resides in that city. Mr. Wainwright was a Republican and a member of the Methodist Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Wainwright were born eleven children: Arthur, who died in 1914; Elizabeth, who died in infancy ; Mary, married W. B. Lindesmith, lives at Cleveland ; Martha, married W. J. Davis, lives at Cleveland ; J. B., lives at Cleveland ; Lucy, married Clark Cabele, lives at Lisbon ; J. W., who is superintendent of music at Shortridge High School, Indianapolis, Ind.; 1452 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO David, who died at the age of ten years ; Paul, the subject of this sketch ; Lawren, lives at Medina ; and Ernest, lives at Grand Rapids, Mich. Paul Wainwright received his education in the public schools of Lisbon, and during his high school career was employed in the greenhouses of J. W. Scott, with whom he spent ten years. Later he was located in Pittsburgh as a florist, and also spent one year at Albion, Mich. In June, 1912, Mr. Wainwright came to Elyria, where he was identified for two years with the L. C. Hecock Floral Company. He then spent two years in Cleveland with Penticost, florist, and from there went to Wellington. Mr. Wainwright conducted a business at Oberlin for two years, and upon his return to Elyria in 1918 continued in the floral business. For many years he conducted a retail flower shop in the downtown section of Elyria, which was discontinued by him in October, 1930. He has since devoted his entire interests to the wholesale trade. Mr. Wainwright has four large greenhouses, and also specializes in outdoor gardening. He is widely known as a successful grower of carnations, and has an annual output of 60,000 carnations alone. On Sept. 14, 1915, Mr. Wainwright was united in marriage with Miss Ruth Shepherd of Huron, Ohio, the daughter of John and Lena (Meltzer) Shepherd. The former, born at Venice, Sandusky County, died in 1924. His wife was born at Huron, Ohio, and died in 1926. Both are buried in Elmwood Cemetery, Lorain. Mr. Shepherd was widely known as an inventor and was interested in the early type of gasoline stove. He also held patents on weather stripping. His most recent invention was the "Cantleak" trap net metallic buoy, which is now being manufactured in Elyria by his son, Irving Shepherd. John S. Meltzer, maternal grandfather of Mrs. Wainwright, was among the first settlers of Erie County. He came to this country from Germany with his father at the age of nine years. The father died during the voyage and was buried at sea. To John and Lena (Meltzer) Shepherd were born four children : Fred S., lives at Elyria ; Iza B. Humm, lives at Miami, Fla. ; Ruth Wainwright ; and Irving L., lives at Elyria. To Paul and Ruth (Shepherd) Wainwright were born two sons : David Paul, born Sept. 4, 1916 ; and Irving Richard, born March 9, 1922. Mr. Wainwright is a Republican and is serving as a member of the city council from the Fifth Ward. He holds membership in the Church of Christ and is affiliated with Frank S. Harmon Lodge, F. and A. M., Order of Eastern Star, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, B. P. 0. Elks, Loyal Order of Moose, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Kiwanis Club. He is widely known as a vocalist and is a member of the Wainwright Quartette, which is composed of his three brothers and himself. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1453 Edward A. Seabold. As proprietor of Seabold's Dairy, 123 Lake Avenue, Mr. Seabold is numbered among the enterprising and progressive business men of Elyria. He was born at Lorain, July 4, 1892, the son of John and Frances (Mackert) Seabold. John Seabold was born in Wood County, Ohio, where he lived during his early life. As a young man he was employed in the shipyards at Lorain and later owned and operated a sawmill on Telegraph Road, near Elyria. He engaged in this same work at Olmsted Falls for a time and also owned a well improved farm in Carlisle Township, Lorain County. Mr. Seabold was also a stonemason by trade and for sometime engaged in the contracting business with his brother-in-law. They completed numerous contracts for the building of schools and churches in Lorain County. Concrete silos were also built by him. Since 1923 Mr. Seabold has been a resident of Elyria. He is a Democrat and holds membership in St. Mary's Catholic Church. His wife, born in Sheffield Township, Lorain County, died in 1921, and is buried in St. Mary's Cemetery, Elyria. To Mr. and Mrs. Seabold the following children were born : 1. Sister M. Benita, lives at Youngstown, Ohio. 2. Rose, who died in 1918, was the wife of Robert Mason. 3. Nettie, married Harry Bates, lives at Cleveland. 4. Edward A., the subject of this sketch. 5. John I., who enlisted for service during the World War, and served on the Italian front as a member of Company B, 332nd Infantry. He died in Italy of influenza shortly after the close of the war and is buried in St. Mary's Cemetery, Elyria. His mother died while his body was enroute to Elyria, and double funeral services were held. 6. Elizabeth, married Vernon Ross, lives at Elyria. 7. Carl, lives at LaGrange, Ohio. 8. Lillian, married John Dow-dell, lives at Elyria. 9. Isabel Harrsema, lives at Elyria. 10. William, lives at Elyria. 11. Francis, died in infancy. 12. Joseph, died in infancy. Edward A. Seabold attended the district schools of Amherst Township. At the age of 18 years he took over the management of a small retail milk route in Elyria, which had been owned by his father, and in 1914 Mr. Seabold purchased the business. Two years later he erected a modern dairy plant on West River Street and installed the latest type dairy machinery and equipment. Mr. Seabold was the first dairyman in the city to install the approved Hold method of pasteurizing. The business increased rapidly and in 1923 additional buildings were added to the plant, which front on Lake Avenue, where the retail department is located. The company makes a specialty of fancy ice creams which are in popular demand throughout the county. Several years ago Mr. Seabold also installed electric refrigeration in his plant, and was the first in this section to adopt the new sanitary milk bottle cap. He is the owner of two fine dairy farms in Lorain County. Mr. Seabold is a director of the 1454 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Northern Ohio Milk Dealers Association, and is vice chairman of the Cleveland District Ohio Milk Distributors Association. He is also a member of the Elyria Chamber of Commerce. On Oct. 14, 1914, Mr. Seabold was united in marriage with Miss Flossie Bruce, of Elyria, the daughter of Harrison J. and Sylvia (Bingham) Bruce. Mr. Bruce, born in Carlisle Township, Lorain County, died in 1926. His widow, a native of Pennsylvania, resides on the Bruce homestead in Carlisle Township, where the Seabold family also lives. To Mr. and Mrs. Seabold have been born three children: 1. Ernest R., born Dec. 24, 1915. 2. Rosalia, born July 3, 1919. 3. Lila Leona, born Oct. 8, 1920. Mr. Seabold belongs to the Elks Lodge, Maccabees, and Kiwanis Club. Harry Redmond Wright, who is identified with the Wright Printing Service, Elyria, is a responsible business man and highly esteemed citizen of Lorain County. He is a native of New York, born at Cortland, April 14, 1886, the son of George and Hattie Maria (Flanders) Wright. George Wright was born at Manchester Depot, Vt., and his wife was a native of Cortland County, N. Y. He died April 10, 1890, and his wife died April 28, 1927. The former is buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Cortland, and the latter in Ridgelawn Cemetery, Elyria. Harry Redmond, the subject of this sketch, is their only surviving child. A son and daughter died in infancy and are buried in Cortland. Harry Redmond Wright lived at Cortland until he was nine years of age, when his parents removed to Clearfield, Pa., remaining there until 1900. The famiily then located in Elyria, where Mr. Wright completed his schooling. He served his apprenticeship as a printer with the Lakeside Publishing Company, Elyria, and completed it in New York. Mr. Wright has spent 30 years in the printing business. He served as foreman for several years with the Republican Printing Company, Elyria, and spent three years in the art pressroom of R. R. Donnelly & Sons Company, Chicago, the world's largest printers. He was also night superintendent of Corbitt Railway Printing Company, Chicago, for one year, and in 1914 bought the New London (Ohio) Record, which he and his wife successfully published for four years. At that time Mr. Wright sold the business in order to serve overseas with the Y. M. C. A. during the World War, but the armistice was signed before his enlistment became effective. It was in 1922 that Mr. Wright organized his present well known business in Elyria. The plant is located at Chestnut and Tremont streets. The Wright Printing Service are specialists in multi-color printing, and direct mail literature. They also have an extensive business in factory and office forms. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1455 On March 10, 1913, Mr. Wright was united in marriage with Miss Geneva Pearle Otter, who was born in Moultrie County, Ill., April 10, 1890, the daughter of Harvey and Indiana (Lankford) Otter, natives of Illinois and Indiana, respectively. Mr. Otter is deceased and is buried at Bourbon, Ill. His widow lives at Arthur, Ill. To Mr. and Mrs. Wright was born a son, Harry Otter Wright, born Dec. 3, 1918. Mr. Wright is a Republican, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Encampment, Rebekahs, Elks Lodge, and Eagles Lodge. Mrs. Wright is a member of the Church of Christ. W. H. Vanoster. Numbered among the highly successful business men and prominent citizens of Elyria, may be mentioned W. H. Vanoster, who is president of the Fay Stocking Company. He was born in Morgan Comity, Ohio, May 8, 1881, the son of William T. and Easter (McGregor) Vanoster. William T. Vanoster, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, and his widow is a native of Morgan County, Ohio. He was a farmer during his entire active career and during the Civil War enlisted and served as a member of Company I, First Ohio Heavy Artillery. He died in 1917 and his widow lives at Malta, Morgan County. Mr. Vanoster was a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Vanoster: Mrs. Anna Riley, lives in Malta Township, Morgan County; W. H., the subject of this sketch ; and James, lives in Fairfield County, Ohio. W. H. Vanoster grew up on his father's farm in Morgan County and attended the district schools. After his graduation from McConnellsville High School he taught in the district schools for three years, after which he took a business course at Oberlin Business College. For a period of three years he was in the employ of the American Shovel & Stamping Company, Lorain. He came to Elyria in October, 1904, as billing clerk for the Fay Stocking Company. Mr. Vanoster has since been identified with the firm and became manager of the business in 1914. He was elected to the office of president in 1926. The Fay Stocking Company, one of the widely known business firms of the city, is Ohio's pioneer hosiery mill, and throughout its history it has been recognized as a dependable institution. On Sept. 3, 1902, Mr. Vanoster was united in marriage with Miss Grace Lyne, of Morgan County, the daughter of David and Susan (Mummy) Lyne. The former died in 1895 and the latter lives in Morgan County. To Mr. and Mrs. Vanoster were born four children: 1. Florence 1456 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Evelyn, born April 19, 1904, a graduate of Oberlin College, class of 1926, married Allen Coven, and they have a son, Donald Coven. They live at Wooster, Ohio. 2. Russell Lyne, born June 1, 1909, a graduate of the University of Alabama, class of 1931. 3. Wilma Jeanette, born Nov. 1, 1915, attends Elyria High School. 4. Merle Juanita, born June 18, 1918, attends Elyria High School. Mr. Vanoster is a Democrat and has taken an active part in local politics. He also served as a member of the Elyria school board from 1926 until 1930. He and his family are members of the Methodist Church, and he also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Sons of Veterans. E. E. Brown, who is vice president of the Home Company, is recognized as one of the able business men of Ashland. He was born in this city, May 30, 1875, the son of Joseph N. and Sarah (King) Brown. Joseph N. Brown was a native of Richland County. He attended the district schools and at the age of 18 years enlisted for service in the Civil War as a member of Company H, 42nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After the battle of Chickamaugua, he was taken ill and spent three months in a hospital at St. Louis, Mo. After his discharge from the service, Mr. Brown returned to Ashland County where he became the proprietor of a well improved farm. He retired several years ago and spent the remainder of his life in Ashland. He became a director of the Farmers Bank and the Star Telephone Company. He and his wife are buried in Ashland. Mr. Brown was a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown : Arbie, deceased, was the wife of Charles Fritzinger ; Myrtle, married George R. Freer, lives in Ashland ; and E. E., the subject of this sketch. E. E. Brown received his education in the public schools of Ashland. He began his business career in 1892 as a clerk in the dry goods store of M. A. Bowman, where he remained until 1900, at that time becoming a member of the firm, which was thereafter known as Bowman & Brown. Mr. Bowman later sold his interest in the business to W. V. Beach, and retired from business. Beach & Brown remained in business until 1910 when the company was merged with the Shinn-Stockwell Company, and incorporated as The Home Company, of which Mr. Brown is vice president and treasurer. Since 1910 the business has been located in the Myers Building, where it occupies two complete floors as well as basement. The Home Company handles a complete line of dry goods and home furnishings, and deal in high grade merchandise exclusively. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1457 Mr. Brown is a director of the Farmers Bank, Star Telephone Company, and Mohican Rubber Company, being president of the latter. He is also a director of Samaritan Hospital. In 1900 Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss Winona Hemmingway, of Ashland, the daughter of George R. and Anna (Shaw) Hemmingway, natives of New York. The former is deceased and the latter lives at 31 College Avenue, Ashland. She is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. To Mr. and Mrs. Brown were born two children: 1. Joseph H., born April 23, 1908, attended Culver Military Academy and is a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1925. He is identified with The Home Company. 2. Helen Louise, born Feb. 14, 1913, a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1930, attends Penn Hall, Chambersburg, Pa. Politically, Mr. Brown is a Republican. He holds membership in the Presbyterian Church and is a 32nd degree Mason. He has always taken an active interest in all civic affairs of Ashland. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. The Brown family lives at 812 Center Street. Dr. Roy J. Rosselot is prominent throughout Lorain County as the proprietor of the Rosselot Veterinary Hospital in Elyria. He was born in Clermont County, Ohio, Aug. 22, 1901, the son of Charles J. and Rose (Weber) Rosselot. Charles J. Rosselot is a native of Clermont County and his wife was born in Brown County, Ohio. They now live at Cincinnati. Mr. Rosselot was interested in the general mercantile business for a number of years in Clermont -County and later engaged in farming. He retired in 1923 and in that year removed to Cincinnati. C. J. Rosselot is a Democrat in politics and holds membership in the Catholic Church. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rosselot : Walter, who lives in Brown County ; R. J., the subject of this sketch ; Geraldine Rush, lives in Cincinnati ; Fred, lives in Elyria ; Anna Lou, and Rosemond, both at home. R. J. Rosselot attended the public schools of Clermont County and High School of Milford, Ohio, and after his graduation from high school in 1919 he remained on his father's farm in Clermont County for one year, and during that time took a one month's course of study in agriculture at Ohio State University. In 1921 he entered the College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1925. At that time he came to Elyria, where he was partner in practice with Dr. Fred Von Kaenel, owners of the 1458 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Elyria Veterinary Hospital. After one year Doctor Rosselot purchased the hospital and has since continued the practice alone. On Feb. 3, 1926, Doctor Rosselot married Miss Dorothy Broering, of Cincinnati, and they have two sons : Robert Paul, born Jan. 13, 1928 ; and James Edward, born Oct. 7, 1929. Mrs. Rosselot is a graduate nurse, having studied at Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati. Doctor Rosselot belongs to the Elks Lodge, and Omega Tau Sigma fraternity. He holds the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in the 15. S. Reserve Officers Corps. William C. Porter, who is proprietor of the Crystal Springs Dairy, of Elyria, is a substantial business man and widely known citizen of Lorain County. He was born at Hinckley, Medina County, Dec. 28, 1877, the son of John and Eva (Damon) Porter. John Porter was born on a farm near Hinckley, and his entire life was spent in Medina County. He was a stonemason by trade and also engaged in general farming. Mr. Porter built numerous stone bridges and culverts throughout the county, among them being the arch stone bridge at Hinckley. He died in 1925 and his wife died in 1926. Both are buried at Hinckley. Mr. Porter was a Republican, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. There were four children in the Porter family : Leonard J., lives at Perrysburg, Ohio, and is identified with the Hudson Motor Car Company, at Detroit, Mich. ; William C., the subject of this sketch ; Rev. Charles N., lives at Marion, Ind. ; and Eva L., married Thomas Reid, lives at Cleveland, Ohio. After completing his schooling at Hinckley, W. C. Porter became interested in the wholesale meat business in Cleveland. Later, he conducted a retail business in that city and later on was the owner of a well improved farm of 70 acres near Hinckley. He became interested in the lumber business and was thus engaged for a period of 15 years. In 1919 Mr. Porter purchased the old Gibbs farm on the Oberlin Road, where he now resides. In August, 1920, he engaged in the retail milk business on a small scale in Elyria, and the business rapidly grew to its present status. The Crystal Springs Dairy was established in Elyria in April, 1926, and since that date Mr. Porter has had associated with him his son, Floyd W. Porter, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. The company handles high-grade dairy products, including butter, cheese, and eggs, and its daily trade has a consumption of 200 gallons of milk. Two retail milk routes are operated in the city of Elyria. On Feb. 22, 1900, Mr. Porter married Miss Celia Damon, of Hinckley, the daughter of Ezra and Mary (Rockwell) Damon. The former died in HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1459 1904 and the later in 1905. Both are buried at Hinckley. To Mr. and Mrs. Porter have been born four children : 1. Floyd W., a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. 2. Ruth L., born Nov. 14, 1903, a graduate of Miami University, married in 1930 to D. H. Jackman, of Cleveland. They reside at Fairview, where she has taught school for five years. He was admitted to the Ohio State bar in 1929 and is now employed by the National Refining Company of Cleveland. 3. Eunice N., born Sept. 20, 1907, a graduate of Elyria High School, now employed by her father. 4. Ezra J., born Jan. 19, 1913, a graduate of Elyria High School, class of 1931. They are all active members of the First Baptist Church. Mr. Porter is a Republican, and an active member of the Baptist Church. For a number of years he was trustee and Sunday School superintendent of the Hinckley Baptist Church. Floyd W. Porter. One of the representative young business men of Elyria is Floyd W. Porter, who is connected with the Crystal Springs Dairy. He is a native of Medina County, born at Hinckley, May 29, 1901, the son of W. C. and Celia (Damon) Porter. A complete sketch of W. C. Porter appears elsewhere in this history. Floyd W. Porter obtained his education in the public and high schools of Hinckley, and also attended Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea. He has been interested in the dairy business in Elyria with his father since 1921. Mr. Porter was married to Miss Mary Eastwood, of Hinckley. They have two sons : Richard James, born in 1924 ; and William K., born in 1928. He and his wife are members of First Baptist Church of Elyria. Gordon Cunningham, who is manager of the Hotel Antlers of Lorain, is numbered among the representative young business men of Lorain County and North Central Ohio. He was born at Pittsburgh, Pa., Oct. 31, 1905, the son of James Donald and Velma (Short) Cunningham. James Donald Cunningham was born in Pittsburgh, where he received his education and spent his early business career. Until 1909 he was identified with the National Car Wheel Company, now the Southern Wheel Company, and in that year was transferred to Cleveland by the company, as general manager of their plant in that city. Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham are residents of Lakewood. He is a Republican and belongs to the Masonic Lodge. To Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham were born two children : Gordon, the subject of this sketch ; and Ruth, who lives at home. 1460 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO After his graduation from Lakewood High School in 1922, Gordon Cunningham entered Miami University, from which he received a degree in 1926. Upon his return to Cleveland he was employed in the offices of the Pickands-Mather Company, and later was connected with the Osborn Manufacturing Company. Since 1928 he has been identified with the Hotel Antlers, and in January, 1930, became manager. Mr. Cunningham is a Republican and belongs to Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He is unmarried. Frank R. Crawford, who is identified with the Crawford Quality Dairy, is recognized as one of the able and successful young business men of Elyria and is a veteran of the World War. He was born in Lorain, May 18, 1893, the son of William and Addie (Glading) Crawford. William Crawford, who is the proprietor of a well improved farm in Carlisle Township, Lorain County, is a native of Ohio. He was educated in the district schools and for a number of years owned and operated a farm in Black River Township, just east of the city of Lorain. Mr. Crawford is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church and belongs to the Maccabees. His wife is a native of Lorain County. Their children are : Elmer, a World War veteran, lives in Carlisle Township ; Elsie, married Lee Minkler, lives at Elyria ; Blanche, lives at home ; Frank R., the subject of this sketch ; Earl, a World War veteran, lives at Elyria; Harold, lives at home ; and William, Jr., lives at Grafton, Ohio. Frank R. Crawford attended the district schools of Black River and Sheffield Townships. He is a graduate of Lorain High School, and lived at home until May, 1918, when he enlisted for service in the World War. He was sent to Camp Taylor, Ky., and in August sailed for France, with the 114th Ammunition Train, 39th Division. He was discharged at Camp Taylor, Jan. 22, 1919. Mr. Crawford came to Elyria two months later and until May, 1921, was employed by the Park Dairy Company. In that year he purchased a half interest in the business, which thereafter known as the Garrett-Crawford Dairy. Upon the death of Mr. Garrett in February, 1923, Mr. Crawford became owner of the business, which was sold in July, 1925, to Meyer & Stolzenberg. Mr. Crawford spent the following two years in farming and in 1927 purchased the Morris Lesnick dairy and the C. E. Cook dairy, the new organization being known as the Crawford Quality Dairy. The company has an extensive trade, which is handled in three retail and two wholesale routes. Approximately 225 gallons of milk are sold daily, as well as other high grade dairy products. Mr. Crawford operates a fine dairy farm near Elyria. "Even Better," the company's slogan, describes the quality of its dairy products. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1461 On March 18, 1919, Mr. Crawford married Miss Hazel I. Waldorf, of Elyria, the daughter of Eugene A. and Eliza (Schwartz) Waldorf, natives of Wood and Lorain counties, respectively. Mr. Waldorf, who died in 1918, was widely known in Elyria as a merchant for 20 years. His widow is a member of the Church of Christ and takes a prominent and active part in church work. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford have no children. She is a graduate of Elyria High School and Elyria Business College, and has been well known in business circles in the city. For two years she was identified with the Elyria-Lorain Abstract Company. Her brother, Russell S. Waldorf, is a World War veteran. Politically, Mr. Crawford is a Republican. He holds membership in the Church of Christ and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the American Legion. Roland H. Walton, who is identified with the Walton Ice & Fuel Company as general manager, is prominently associated with the business and the civic life of Elyria, where he has spent his entire life, and he is a member of one of the city's oldest and best known families. He was born here, Aug. 6, 1887, the son of George P. and Elizabeth C. (Neipfoot) Walton. George P. Walton was born in Elyria, Oct. 31, 1859, the son of John and Catherine (Garrety) Walton, who were prominent pioneer settlers of Elyria, having established their residence here in 1844. They came to Lorain County from Vineland, N. J. John Walton was a native of England and his wife was born in Dublin, Ireland. He died in April, 1897, and his wife died many years earlier. Their son, George P. Walton, was reared and educated in Elyria, and as a boy learned the butcher's trade in the shop of John Savage. In 1893 he became interested in the ice business, the original plant of the Walton Ice Company, dealing in natural ice, which was cut in Black River in the winter season. Mr. Walton also was the owner of a large cider mill. In 1911 he built the present plant of the Walton Ice & Fuel Company at 201 Winckles Street, and in that year began the manufacture of artificial ice. He died Jan. 4, 1912, and his wife died Dec. 1, 1929. Both are buried in St. Mary's Cemetery, Elyria. She was born in Elyria Township, Lorain County, the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Meyer) Neipfoot, natives of Germany. He died Dec. 6, 1896, and his wife died Dec. 10, 1894. To George P. and Elizabeth C. (Neipfoot) Walton were born the following children : 1. Mrs. Florence Rudolph, who is president and treasurer of the Walton Ice & Fuel Company. She lives in the old Walton homestead at 671 East River Street, 1462 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Elyria. 2. Roland H., the subject of this sketch. 3. Charles F., who is superintendent of the Walton Ice & Fuel Company. He is a veteran of the World War. 4. Karl Peter, who is vice president of the Walton Ice & Fuel Company. 5. Elmer William, who is secretary of the company. He is also a veteran of the World War. Roland H. Walton obtained his education in the parochial and public schools of Elyria, and throughout his business career has been identified with the business which was established by his father. It was incorporated in 1920, and Mr. Walton has since served as general manager. It is regarded as one of the important business institutions in the commercial life of Elyria. In 1920 Mr. Walton was united in marriage with Miss Mary Conroy, of Corning, N. Y., the daughter of D. J. and Margaret Conroy, who are natives of Ireland and now residents of Elyria. Mr. and Mrs. Walton have no children. Mr. and Mrs. Walton hold membership in St. Mary's Catholic Church, and he belongs to B. P. 0. Elks, Loyal Order of Moose, Eagles Lodge, Knights of Columbus, and Knights of St. John. They live at 55 East River Street. Mose G. Wilder. Representative of the successful business men of Lorain County is Mose G. Wilder, who is interested in the wholesale and retail cigar and tobacco business in Elyria. He was born at Avon, Ohio, Sept. 10, 1878, the son of William T. and Lucy G. (Gregg) Wilder. William T. Wilder was born in Avon and reared and educated in Lorain County. He spent one year at Oberlin College, and for a number of years lives at Sheffield, Lorain County. He settled in Elyria in 1889, where he was successful as a buyer of wool. He died in 1907 and is buried in Avon. His wife is also deceased and is buried in Elyria. Mr. Wilder was a Republican, an attendant of the Methodist Church, and Knights of Pythias. There were five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilder: Charles A., lives at Elyria ; William T., lives at Elyria ; Mose G., the subject of this sketch ; Garfield J., lives at Philadelphia, Pa. ; and Daisy, lives at Elyria. Mose G. Wilder was 11 years of age when his family came to Elyria. He was educated in the public schools and attended Oberlin Business College. He began his business career in the employ of Fauver & Robson, with whom he was identified for 11 years. He formed a partnership in 1906 with J. R. Jones and engaged in the wholesale and retail tobacco business for five years, at which time Mr. Wilder purchased his partner's interest. The company's territory includes Lorain and Medina counties, as well as sections of Cuyahoga and Erie counties. Ten people are em- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1463 ployed by Mr. Wilder. His well patronized retail store is located on the corner of Broad and Middle avenues, Elyria, while his wholesale location is in Masonic Temple building. Mr. Wilder was married in 1904 to Miss Nora Sudro, of Elyria, the daughter of Charles A. and Mary Sudro, who were natives of Germany, now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Wilder have no children. Mr. Wilder is affiliated with the First Congregational Church and is also a member of the Masonic Lodge, being a Knight Templar and member of the Mystic Shrine, Modern Woodmen of America, B. P. 0. Elks, Loyal Order of Moose, and Eagles Lodge. He also belongs to the Rotary Club. Politically Mr. Wilder is a Republican. Mr. Wilder is a director of the Lorain County Savings & Trust Company. During the Spanish-American War Mr. Wilder served with the Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He belongs to the United Spanish-American War Veterans. William N. Harding, who is one of the organizers of the Elyria Brass & Bronze Foundry, is recognized as one of the capable and highly successful business men of Lorain County. He was born at Olmsted Falls, Ohio, Sept. 13, 1880, the son of Thomas D. and Sarah M. (Herrington) Harding. Thomas D. Harding engaged in general farming during his life, and for many years was a well known resident of Olmsted Falls. He was born at Avon, Ohio, and his wife was a native of Olmsted Falls. Both are deceased. Mr. Harding died in 1915. He was a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and was affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for almost half a century. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Harding were : Oliver, lives at Willoughby, Ohio; Mrs. Harry Anthony, lives at North Olmsted ; William N., the subject of this sketch ; Verne, lives at Olmsted Falls ; and Frank, lives at Elyria. Nathan B. Herrington, maternal grandfather of William N. Harding, served throughout the Civil War, and was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. William N. Harding obtained his education in the public schools of Olmsted Falls and attended Oberlin Business College. He was employed then for three years in the Elyria foundry of the Lorain Steel Mills, and later learned the trade of a brass moulder in Detroit, Mich. Mr. Harding returned to Elyria in 1906 and was employed until 1913 by the Machine Parts Company as a brass moulder. It was in 1913 that Mr. Harding, in partnership with several business men in Elyria, organized the Lorain Brass & Bronze Foundry. He became secretary, treasurer and manager, 1464 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO and was identified with this enterprise until 1920, when he disposed of his interests and organized the Elyria Brass & Bronze Foundry. In 1902 Mr. Harding was united in marriage with Miss Estelle A. Bainbridge, of Fields Corners, Ohio, the daughter of John and Lavina (Moore) Bainbridge, natives of Ohio and Michigan respectively. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Harding: Lester William, born Jan. 21, 1904, married Mildred Hines, lives at Elyria ; Thelma Marie, born in 1907, married John Wehmhoff, Jr., and they have a son, William ; and Robert John, born Dec. 25, 1910. Mr. Harding is a Republican, a member of the Church of Christ, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, 32nd degree, Knights of Pythias, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Elks Lodge, Elyria Country Club, Sons of Veterans, and Rotary Club. Arthur A. Hiner, D. D. S. One of the most representative professional men of Ashland is Doctor Hiner, who has engaged in the practice of dentistry in this city for the past 16 years. He was born near Loudonville, Ohio, March 15, 1884, the son of George W. and Cora (Tindall) Hiner. Leonard Hiner, paternal great grandfather of Arthur A. Hiner, was born in Germany in 1789 and came to America when he was a small child. His parents died during voyage across the Atlantic and were buried at sea. He was thus left an orphan early in life and for many years lived in Lancaster County, Pa., later removing to Wabash County, Ind., about 1840. He died there in 1854. His son, Martin Hiner, was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1816, and came to Ohio in 1838. He located on a farm near Jeromesville in Wayne County, later moved to Green Township, then to Hanover Township, where he died in 1891. He is buried in San Ridge Cemetery, Hanover Township. Gabriel Tindall, maternal grandfather of Arthur A. Hiner, served throughout the Civil War as a member of the Third Ohio Independent Battery. His wife, Alcinda (Taylor) Tindall, had two brothers, Griffin and Zachary Taylor, who were Civil War soldiers. The latter died in the service while stationed at Charlestown Harbor, S. C. George W. Hiner was born near Loudonville in Green Township, July 10, 1862, and his wife was a native of Stark County, Ohio. He engaged in general farming in Green and Hanover townships, and now lives retired at Ashland. His wife died March 30, 1929, and is buried in Ashland Cemetery. Mr. Hiner is a Republican and has held numerous township offices. There were five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hiner : 1. Arthur HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1465 A., the subject of this sketch. 2. Golda, married Orley E. Whitcomb, lives at Ashland. 3. Edna, lives at Wooster. 4. Gaylord M., D. D. S., also an attorney, lives at Columbus. 5. George W., Jr., lives at Ashland. Arthur A. Hiner grew up on his father's farm near Loudonville and attended the district schools. After teaching school for five years he took the civil service examination for railway mail clerk and served in that capacity continuously from 1907 until 1914. He attended summer courses at Ohio Northern University and Wooster College, and in 1910 studied at Northwestern University, Chicago, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1913. During all these years, Dr. Hiner continued in the railway mail service, but in 1914, resigned to take up the practice of his profession in Ashland. He has had offices at 58 East Main Street since 1916 and enjoys a splendid practice. On June 18, 1924, Doctor Hiner married Miss Maud Thomas, of Greenwich, Ohio, the daughter of Frederick and Lorinda (Frost) Thomas, the former a native of Norwalk, Ohio, died in 1920. His wife died in 1925. Doctor and Mrs. Hiner have no children. Politically, Doctor Hiner is independent. He is affiliated with B. P. 0. Elks, Ashland. Stanley John Birkbeck, M. D., is one of the best known of the younger physicians and surgeons of Lorain County, engaged in the practice of his profession at Elyria, with offices at 322 Third Street. He is also a veteran of the World War. Doctor Birkbeck was born at Wadsworth, Medina County, Dec. 11, 1899, the son of Thomas J. and Margaret Ellen (Curran) Birkbeck. Thomas J. Birkbeck is a native of England, born at New Lampton. His wife is a native of Wayne County, Ohio. Professionally, he is a mining engineer. Mr. and Mrs. Birkbeck reside at 1548 Cordova Avenue, Lakewood. They have three children : Stanley John, the subject of this sketch ; Mildred Florence Klaisner ; and Marian Cecelia Dedrel, residents of Cleveland. Stanley John Birkbeck grew up at Wadsworth, where he received his early education. After his graduation from Wadsworth High School he received the degree of Bachelor of Science at John Carroll University, Cleveland. He studied medicine at St. Louis University, and served his internship at St. John's Hospital, Cleveland, 1927-28. He was resident surgeon at Elyria Memorial Hospital, 1928-29, and assistant to Dr. H. C. Stevens, Elyria, 1929-30. On April 15, 1930, he established his present private practice in Elyria. He is also a member of the staff of Elyria Memorial Hospital. 1466 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO During the World War Dr. Birkbeck enlisted in the U. S. Naval Reserve Force, and was assigned to transport duty on the U. S. S. Missouri between Hampton Roads, Va., and Brest, France. He was discharged from the service in July, 1919. On Oct. 3, 1928, Doctor Birkbeck married Miss Marie Isabel Haessly, of Lakewood, the daughter of Leo James and Mary Maud (Mullaly) Haessly. They live at 1626 Wagar Avenue, Lakewood. Doctor and Mrs. Birkbeck have two daughters, Mary Margaret, born Oct. 11, 1929, and Barbara Ann, born Feb. 2, 1931. Doctor Birkbeck is a Republican, a member of the Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus, B. P. 0. Elks, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Y. M. C. A., and Kiwanis. He is also identified with the Lorain County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Association, and is a Fellow of the American Medical Association. Charles Hahn, who is president of the board of directors of the National Bank of Commerce, Lorain, is a prominent citizen of Lorain County. He was born on the farm where he now resides in Black River Township, Lorain County, between Lorain and Vermilion, June 11, 1848, the son of George and Elizabeth (Pretc) Hahn. George Hahn was born in Germany in 1821 and emigrated to the United States when 16 years of age. His wife was also a native of Germany. She came to this country in 1833 and was a widow at the time of her marriage to Mr. Hahn. He was educated in the district schools of Lorain County and throughout his life engaged in general farming. During the winter seasons he was employed in canal construction work. He died at the Hahn homestead in Black River Township, March 14, 1913, at the age of 92 years. His wife died March 4, 1889. Their only child was Charles, the subject of this sketch. Charles Hahn received his early education in the district schools and attended Oberlin College. Throughout his life he has been interested in general farming and has continued as proprietor of the Hahn homestead, which contains 400 acres of the most valuable land in Lorain County. He was one of the organizers of the National Bank of Commerce more than 26 years ago, and served as president of the institution until 1924, at which time he was elected president of the board of directors. He has also been connected with the Citizens Bank of Lorain, and for many years has been one of the substantial figures connected with the banking interests of the city. On May 7, 1870, Mr. Hahn was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Baumhardt, of Black River Township, born March 17, 1852, the daughter HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1467 of Adam and Christine (Harwic) Baumhardt, both natives of Germany. Mr. Baumhardt, who came to this country at the age of 16 years, became a prosperous farmer of Lorain County. He died Feb. 14, 1894, at the age of 73 years, and his wife died in 1903, at the age of 79 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Hahn were born six children : 1. Lewis E., farmer, lives in Erie County. 2. George A., farmer, lives near Oberlin. 3. Martha A., married Charles Schaibley, lives near Elyria. 4. Minnie C., married Arthur Wangerien, lives near Oberlin. 5. Bertha, married Henry Schmidtkons, lives near Amherst. 6. Amelia M., married Walter Hollstein, lives in Amherst Township. Mr. Hahn is a member of the Amherst Evangelical Church. He has held the office of township trustee. Wm. R. Curry. As president of the D. C. Curry Lumber Company, Wm. R. Curry is outstanding among the business executives of Wooster, and is a member of one of the oldest families of Wayne County. He was born in Wooster, Oct. 7, 1876, the son of David C. and Jennie J. (Yergin) Curry. David C. Curry was born in Holmes County, Ohio, in 1841, the second son of James Curry, founder of the Curry lumber interests in Wooster. The latter was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., Oct. 17, 1816, the son of David Curry, a carpenter and builder, in which pursuit he brought up his son, James. When he had completed his trade at the age of 18 years, James Curry left home and worked as a journeyman for two years. He then came to Ohio and located in Washington Township, Holmes County, where he followed his trade until coming to Wooster in 1853, where he at once entered into business as proprietor of a lumber yard on the site of the former Snow Flake Mills. One year later he purchased a better location at East Liberty and Beall avenues. Here the main building was erected in 1857. In 1854 Mr. Curry had placed in operation the first planing mill ever brought into Wayne County, and from time to time he and his descendants introduced new and labor saving machinery of the latest design, required in the skillful manufacture of doors, sashes, blinds, moldings, brackets, and making a specialty in later years of church furniture. From this small beginning the shops and yards of James Curry became an extensive establishment, and one of the largest in the country. From 1854 the business increased from an output of 100,000 feet of lumber to 4,000,000 feet. He was the first large dealer in pine lumber in Wooster, where it had been comparatively little used before. He also imported building materials in large quantities from the pine woods of the North 1468 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO and the walnut groves of Indiana. Mr. Curry's sons became valuable assets to the business and the family became known as the "lumber family." In 1867 James Curry and his three sons, John, David C., and Wellington, purchased the business of Stibbs-Spink & Company, which was conducted under their management until October, 1868, when the co-partner-ship was dissolved. The son, David C. Curry, retained the new yard and the father maintaining charge of the old plant on East Liberty Street. In May, 1877, James Curry took as his partner his fourth son, James Millard Curry, and Robert Cameron, the firm doing business under the name of Curry, Cameron & Company, and they conducted an extensive business. James Curry died June 9, 1884. His wife, Elizabeth, born in Westmoreland County, Pa., in 1814, died May 1, 1874. The following children were born to them: David C., father of the subject of this sketch ; Margaret, born Oct. 7, 1843 ; Wellington, born May 27, 1845 ; James, born Aug. 27, 1849 ; Mary, born July 20, 1853 ; and Jerome, born April 5, 1856. David C. Curry was 12 years old when he came to Wooster with his parents. He was educated in the public schools and in 1857 began an apprenticeship as a printer on the old Wooster Republican. The outbreak of the Civil War changed his career, however, and upon the first call for troops he was among the first to respond, and enlisted April 23, 1861, as a member of Company G, 16th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Upon the expiration of three months' service he reenlisted for a period of three years, Oct. 5, 1861, and served as a member of Company H, which was commanded by Capt. A. S. McClure, and after sharing the vicissitudes of the famous 16th Regiment, he was honorably discharged, Oct. 31, 1864. He was wounded April 19, 1863, when struck by a shell fragment at the first assault on Vicksburg. Upon his return to Wooster Mr. Curry at once took the position of engineer in his father's planing mill, and later owned and controlled the business until his death, Jan. 7, 1910. On Dec. 24, 1868, David C. Curry married Jennie J. Yergin, and to this union five children were born: Charles Y., lives at Wooster; Mrs. Robert Esterly, lives at Minneapolis, Minn.; Cora, who died in 1875; William R., the subject of this sketch ; and Rowland, lives at Los Angeles. David C. Curry had numerous business interests throughout North Central Ohio. He was possessed of unusual civic pride and was a generous contributor to all worthy causes. He took a prominent part in local politics, having served as a member of the city council. He was affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Honor, Knights of Maccabees, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1469 Wm. R. Curry received his education in the public schools of Wooster and attended Wooster College. Throughout his business career he has been identified with the interests of the D. C. Curry Lumber Company, and succeeded his father as president in 1910. The firm was incorporated June 20, 1901, with the following officers : David C. Curry, president ; Charles Curry, vice president ; and W. R. Curry, secretary and treasurer. The officers for 1930 are : W. R. Curry, president and treasurer ; E. S. Curry, vice president ; and L. M. Mann, secretary. On April 30, 1900, Mr. Curry married Miss Edna Smith, of Wooster, the daughter of Hiram and Ellen (Bush) Smith. The former is deceased and the latter lives in Wooster. To Mr. and Mrs. Curry were born four children : 1. James R., born in 1904, a graduate of Wooster College, Dartmouth and Johns Hopkins University, now a graduate student in chemistry at Berlin, Germany. He is a member of Theta Chi and Phi Beta Kappa fraternities. 2. Richard R., born in 1908, attends Ohio State University. He is a member of Sigma Chi fraternity. 3. Nancy Jane, born in 1913, attends Dana Hall, Wellesley, Mass. 4. Betty Ann, born in 1915, attends Wooster High School. Mr. Curry is a Republican, a member of the Episcopal Church and belongs to the Masonic and Elk lodges. He is also a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. A. V. Hageman. As president of the Lorain Telephone Company, Mr. Hageman is recognized as one of the leading business executives of North Central Ohio. He was born on a farm west of Lorain, Oct. 12, 1871, the son of Conrad and Catherine (Claus) Hageman. Conrad Hageman came to this country from Germany, where he was born, in 1845. He settled on land west of the city of Lorain and became widely known as a successful farmer. He died in March, 1916, and his wife, who was born in Oberlin, and a member of one of the earliest families of Lorain County, died in April, 1895. A. V., the subject of this sketch, was one of a family of 14 children, seven boys and seven girls, only three of whom are living : August, who is interested in the insurance business in Lorain ; A. V., the subject of this sketch ; and Herman E., who is treasurer of the Lorain Telephone Company. A. V. Hageman obtained his education in the district schools of Lorain County and attended Oberlin Business College. He began his business career as a shipping clerk for the Cleveland Stone Company, and after four years became identified with the Lorain Savings & Banking Com- 1470 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO pany as cashier, in which capacity he served from 1897 until 1905. The bank then was merged with the Cleveland Trust Company and Mr. Hageman served as manager of the Lorain branch until 1907. He has been connected with the interests of the Lorain Telephone Company continuously since 1897, and held the office of treasurer and manager until 1916, at which time he was elected to his present position as president of the company. He also has numerous other business interests in the city. Mr. Hageman was married (first) in 1895 to Miss Edith Leimbach, of Vermilion, who died in 1896. He was married (second) in 1901 to Miss Eleanor M. Cunningham, of Clyde, Ohio. They have no children. Mr. Hageman is a member of the Episcopal Church, of which he is junior warden, and he is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, 32nd degree, Al Koran Shrine, Cleveland, B. P. 0. Elks, Knights of Pythias, and Fraternal Order of Eagles. During 1924 Mr. Hageman served as president of the Lorain Chamber of Commerce. Erie D. Chapman. One of Elyria's best known citizens is Erie D. Chapman, who has served as assistant postmaster in this city for the past 33 years. He was born at Brunswick, Medina County, March 21, 1868, the son of Harlan P. and Mary C. (Pitkin) Chapman. Harlan P. Chapman, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born on Butternut Ridge, Eaton Township, Lorain County, Sept. 4, 1844. During the Civil War he served as a member of Company H, 103rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and saw two years of active service, being seriously wounded at the battle of Knoxville. For a number of years Mr. Chapman was well known as a general merchant at LaPorte, Ohio, and also served as postmaster. He spent four years as treasurer of Lorain County and served as a member of the school board and as census enumerator. He died on his farm near LaPorte, May 24, 1920. His wife was born in Medina County, and died in 1918. She was the daughter of Richard Sanford and Delight (Miller) Pitkin, who were natives of New York and early settlers of Medina County. To Mr. and Mrs. Chapman were born three children : Erie D., the subject of this sketch ; Otto B., general merchant, lives at LaPorte ; and Olea E., married Arthur E. Giles, lives at LaPorte. Erie D. Chapman attended the public schools of Elyria and is a graduate of Oberlin Business College. He began his career as a clerk in an Oberlin dry goods store, and during his father's term as county treasurer Mr. Chapman was chief assistant in that office, continuing there when 0. F. Carter of Oberlin, succeeded his father as treasurer. It was in March, 1898, that Mr. Chapman became identified with the Elyria post HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1471 office as assistant postmaster. At that time I. H. Griswold was postmaster, and he was succeeded by J. H. Bath. In 1913 D. W. Seward was appointed postmaster. The present postmaster is J. W. McHenry. On April 20, 1898 Mr. Chapman was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Elizabeth Thayer, of Elyria, the daughter of James Thayer. Mrs. Chapman is a graduate of the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and Cleveland School of Music, and for a number of years was director of the Elyria Extension Department of the Sherwood Music School of Chicago. To Mr. and Mrs. Chapman were born three sons : 1. Harlan Thayer, who served in the U. S. Navy during the World War. He was one of the organizers of the Lorain Dairy & Feed Company, of which he serves as manager. He married Miss Josephine Stalba, of Lorain, and they have a daughter, Constance 0. 2. Erie D., Jr., a graduate of Elyria High School, and Western Reserve University. He is now director of the East Cleveland Y. M. C. A. 3. Max J., a graduate of Elyria High School and Oberlin College. He is a graduate student at Oberlin, where he has specialized in the study of Spanish. Fraternally, Mr. Chapman is identified with King Solomon Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 56; Elyria Council; Elyria Commandery ; Al Koran Temple, Cleveland ; B. P. 0. Elks, No. 465, charter member; Fraternal Order of Eagles ; and belongs to H. P. Chapman Camp, Sons of Veterans, which was organized and named in honor of his father in January, 1911. Mr. Chapman was also a charter member of the Elyria Chamber of Commerce. He and his family hold membership in the Congregational Church. C. O. Jaster, M. D. One of the representatie professional men of North Central Ohio is Doctor Jaster, of Elyria, whose practice is limited to treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat. He was born in Cleveland, Jan. 24, 1877, the son of Moritz E. and Josephine H. (Weitz) Taster. Moritz E. Jaster and his wife were born in Cleveland. Throughout his life he was interested in the tobacco business in that city. He died in 1913 and is buried in Riverside Cemetery, Cleveland. His widow lives in Lakewood. To Mr. and Mrs. Jaster were born two children : C. 0., the subject of this sketch ; and Cora E., married C. C. Chopp, importer, lives at Lakewood, and they have a son, Chester C. After his graduation from high school in Cleveland, C. 0. Jaster studied medicine at Western Reserve University, from which he was graduated in 1898 at the age of 21 years. He served as interne in Charity Hospital, Cleveland, and for six years was identified with the Cleveland Mate Hospital. Later, he spent six years in special practice of eye, ear, 1472 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO nose and throat at Ravenna, Ohio, and in 1914 established his present practice in Elyria. He has offices in the Lorain County Bank Building. Doctor Jaster has taken post-graduate work in Cleveland, New York, Chicago, and Toronto. He is a member of the staff of Elyria Memorial Hospital, and is past president of the Lorain County Medical Society. He also is identified with the Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. In 1904 Doctor Jaster was married (first) to Miss Kathryn Stoner, of Cleveland, who died in 1922. They had a daughter, Gertrude Madeline, a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, class of 1931. On June 12, 1923, Doctor Jaster married Miss Florence Fay, of Elyria, the daughter of W. L. Fay, deceased, who was for many years a leading attorney of this city. Mrs. Jaster is a graduate of Oberlin College and was secretary of the Red Cross in Elyria, for several years prior to her marriage. Doctor Jaster is a Republican, a member of the First Congregational Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge, Rotary Club, and Lorain Country Club. During the World War, Doctor Jaster served as a member of the examining board, and was also identified with the Reserve Officers Corps, and U. S. Military Training Camps, as an examiner. L. B. Ash, M. D. A member of the medical profession distinguished by more than 44 years of service by abilities of high order in Ashland was Dr. L. B. Ash. He was born in Wayne County, Ohio, Sept. 22, 1855, a son of Josiah and Nancy (Beidler) Ash. Josiah Ash was a native of Pennsylvania. He came to Ohio in early manhood and located on a farm near Wooster, Wayne County, where he resided until his death in 1902. His wife, who was also a native of Pennsylvania, died in 1885. They are buried at Wooster. Their children were : Mary (Ash) Forney, deceased, buried near Wooster ; John, deceased ; Martha, married Andrew Mumaw. He is deceased and she resides near Mt. Eaton, Wayne County ; Cyrus, deceased, buried at Delmore, Ohio; Joseph, deceased, buried in State of Washington ; Samantha, the wife of Wade Naftzger, deceased, buried near Wooster ; Linda Worst, resides at Ashland ; Ellen Harding, deceased, buried in Iowa ; L. B., the subject of this sketch ; Agnes Mencer, deceased, buried at Goshen, Ind.; Dr. William, deceased, buried at Wooster ; and Dr. Elmer, physician, lives at Goshen, Ind. L. B. Ash attended the rural schools and graduated from Smithville Academy. He subsequently entered Toledo Medical College, where he HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1473 completed his course and received his degree in medicine in 1887, and began practice of his profession at Ashland. He died Dec. 25, 1930. Dr. Ash was married in 1887 at Wooster, Ohio, to Miss Sarah Rumbach, a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Mowery) Rumbach, natives of Wooster and now deceased. One son was born to Dr. and Mrs. Ash, Ray C., a sketch of whom appears in this history. Doctor Ash was a member of the Ashland County, Ohio State, and American Medical Associations. He was a member of Ashland Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Knights of Pythias, and Modern Woodmen of America. Mrs. Ash resides at 212 Broad Street. Ray C. Ash, M. D., is a successful and well known physician and surgeon of Ashland and a veteran of the World War. He was born in Wayne County, Ohio, May 9, 1881, and is a son of Dr. L. B. (a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history) and Sarah (Rumbach) Ash. Ray C. Ash was reared and educated at Ashland, and after completing a high school course, he entered Ohio State University where he remained two years. He then enrolled at the University of Illinois Medical School where he received his degree as Doctor of Medicine. He returned to Ashland and became associated with his father in the practice of medicine. On Dec. 1, 1917, Doctor Ash volunteered for service in the World War and was commissioned a first lieutenant in the United States Medical Corps. He was at Fort Riley, Kansas, for three months, and then studied three months in New York City in X-ray work. He was stationed at Camp Lee, Va., a short time and on Aug. 22, 1918, was sent to France with Base Hospital Unit No. 61, and served at Beaume in the advanced sector, as Roentgenologist at Base Hospital 61. He was promoted to the rank of captain on Oct. 21, 1918. He served during the balance of the war and returned to the United States May 7, 1919. He returned to Ashland and resumed his practice. July 26, 1904, Doctor Ash was united in marriage with Miss Gail B. Arnold, a daughter of Samuel and Mandy (Bright) Arnold, who were born in Ashland. Mr. Arnold died in 1922 and his wife died in 1917. Doctor and Mrs. Ash had a daughter, Wilma. She died Oct. 27, 1912. Doctor Ash is identified with the Ashland County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Association and the American Medical Association, and is a member of the staff of Samaritan Hospital. He is a member of Ashland Lodge, Chapter, and Council, Free and Accepted Masons ; the American Legion ; and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Politically, he is a Democrat. Doctor and Mrs. Ash attend the Christian Church. Doctor Ash has served as coroner of Ashland County for several terms. 1474 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Niels D. Nielsen, widely known biological chemist and president of Nielsen Laboratories, Inc., of Elyria, was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, Aug. 17, 1874. He is the son of Hans Peter and Dorthea Nielsen. Hans Peter Nielsen was a blacksmith by trade and lived his entire life in Denmark. Both he and his wife are deceased. Niels D. Nielsen received his education in his native land and at the age of 20 years emigrated to this country. In January, 1895, Mr. Nielsen was united in marriage with Miss Mary C. Miller, a native of Sweden, the daughter of Swen and Catherina (Hane) Miller. Both are now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Nielsen were born five children: 1. Ellis D., born Sept. 23, 1895, is general manager of Nielsen Laboratories, Inc. He married Miss Gladys Ford, and they have a daughter, Shirley Ann, born in 1929. 2. Ella D., born Oct. 9, 1899, married Rex Bailey, lives at Quincy, Ill. They have two daughters, Carol Jean, born in 1927 ; and Mary Ella, born in 1929. 3. Swen D., born Nov. 16, 1902, lives at Elyria, associated in business with his father. He married Miss Eva Anderson, and they have a daughter, Nancy Anne, born in 1929. 4. Peer D., born Sept. 9, 1904. He was married in 1928 to Miss Elizabeth Hawk. 5. Karen M., born Feb. 25, 1906, unmarried, lives at home. E. P. Clement, M. D., is numbered among the most successful surgeons of North Central Ohio, and has engaged in practice in Elyria for more than 20 years. He was born at Brunswick, Medina County, Dec. 22, 1874, the son of Charles R. and Sophia (Benjamin) Clement. Charles R. Clement was born in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, in 1850, and his wife is a native of the same county. He followed farming during his life, and took an active part in the political and civic life of the community. He held the offices of county commissioner, township trustee, and was a member of the school board. He died in 1923 and his wife died in 1915. Their children were: George B., who died in 1928 ; Clara May, who died in 1912, was the wife of C. R. Pritchard, of Cleveland ; Mrs. J. H. Lampoh, lives at Bay Village, Ohio ; Frank A., lives at Medina ; Elma E., twin sister of E. P., is the wife of Charles Barry, lives at Medina ; and Willis, lives at Cleveland. The early boyhood of E. P. Clement was spent at Brunswick. He attended Ohio Northern University and for a time taught in the district schools of Medina County. He entered the College of Medicine, Ohio State University, in 1895, being graduated in 1898. The following twelve years were spent in general practice at Grafton, Lorain County, and in 1910 came to Elyria. He is chief surgeon of the Elyria Clinic, and limits his HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1475 entire practice to surgery. Doctor Clement has taken graduate work in New York City, Chicago, and Rochester, Minn. On Nov. 2, 1898, Doctor Clement married Miss Grace Mildred Humphrey, of LaPorte, Ohio, the daughter of Jeury A. and Elizabeth Humphrey, both deceased. Doctor and Mrs. Clement have a daughter, Clara Mae, who is a graduate of Elyria High School and the Oberlin School of Commerce. Doctor Clement is a member of the Lorain County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, 32nd degree. Politically, Dr. Clement is a Republican. He is a director of the Elyria Savings & Trust Company. Doctor Clement is interested in fine horses and is the owner of fifteen race horses at the present time, among them being "Senator McKlyo," who was the three-year-old world champion of 1930, with a record of 2.061/2 on a half-mile track. Robert George Anderson, M. D., established his residence in the city of Elyria in 1895, and here his ability and personal popularity have combined to mark him as one of the representative physicians and surgeons of North Central Ohio. He was born on a farm in Ontario, Canada, May 25, 1868, the son of Archibald and Mary (Burns) Anderson. Archibald Anderson and his wife were natives of Ireland and came to this country with their respective families during the early days. Mr. Anderson became a prosperous farmer in Ontario, where he died in July, 1895. His wife is also deceased. Robert George Anderson spent his boyhood on his father's farm and after completing his early schooling he entered Trinity Medical College, now the Toronto Medical College, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1895. A few months later he located in Elyria and for 35 years had a well established practice on the west side of the city. He has since given his services to the entire community and is also actively identified with the Elyria Memorial Hospital, having been a member of its staff since the date of its organization. He also belongs to the Lorain County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. On June 1, 1897, Dr. Anderson was married to Miss Laura E. Ferguson, who was born in Toronto, Canada. Their children were: 1. Theodore, who died at the age of nine months. 2. Eva Louise, married N. D. Nielsen, who is identified with the Nielsen Laboratories, Inc., of Elyria. They have a daughter, Nancy Ann. 3. George Bertram, who lives in Cleveland. 1476 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO He married Miss Anna Sweeney. He is a graduate of Howe Military Academy. Doctor Anderson is affiliated with King Solomon Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 56, and Marshall Chapter, No. 47. Politically, he is a Republican. Henry W. Ingersoll, Jr. One of the prominent young business men of Elyria is Henry W. Ingersoll, Jr., who is secretary and treasurer of the Park-Home Dairy Company. He was born in this city, Jan. 5, 1903, the son of Henry W. and May (Hamilton) Ingersoll. Henry W. Ingersoll, Sr., is a leading attorney of Elyria and a member of one of the oldest families in Lorain County. His great-grandfather, Major William Ingersoll, came to Ohio from Lee, Berkshire County, Mass., and was the first family to settle in Grafton Township, Lorain County. Part of the original Ingersoll homestead in that township is still owned by Henry W. Ingersoll, Sr. Henry W. Ingersoll was born in Grafton Township, the son of George M. and Mary (Preston) Ingersoll. He received his education in the district schools and also attended the Elyria public schools. He was graduated with the degree of LL. B. from the University of Michigan in 1885, and has since successfully engaged in the practice of law. From 1886 until 1891 he was associated in practice in Elyria with Lester McLean, and in July, 1903, Mr. Ingersoll formed a partnership with Frank A. Stetson, who later became assistant prosecuting attorney of Lorain County. In October, 1912, he became a member of the firm of Ingersoll & Vandemark, and this partnership continued until October, 1915. Since January, 1930, he has been associated with Chas. J. Snoble. He has offices in the Elyria Savings and Trust Building. Mr. Ingersoll is vice president of the Elyria Savings & Trust Company, director of the Elyria Savings & Loan Company, Fay Stocking Company, Home Land Company, a director and chairman of board of the Colson Co. and president of the Citizens Building Company. On Oct. 24, 1888, Mr. Ingersoll married Miss May Hamilton, formerly of Berea, Ohio, the daughter of Leonard G. and Cassandra M. Hamilton. Their children are : 1. Mary Cassandra, graduate of Elyria High School, attended Maryland College for Women, and is a graduate of Oberlin Kindergarten Training School. 2. Henry Walter, Jr., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Ingersoll has taken an active part in Masonry, being affiliated with King Solomon Lodge ; Marshall Chapter ; Elyria Council ; Elyria Commandery ; Knights Templar ; and Al Koran Shrine of Cleveland. Through his influence the site for the Masonic Temple building was obtained, and HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1477 he was the first president of the Masonic Temple Company. He also belongs to the Elyria Chamber of Commerce. Henry W. Ingersoll, Jr., is a graduate of Elyria High School, class of 1920, and attended Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1925. Since that time he has been identified with the interests of the Park-Home Dairy Company. It is the oldest dairy in the city, having been founded in 1903, but reorganized in 1918. It has an extensive trade in the city and surrounding community, and handles high grade dairy products exclusively. On July 1, 1925, Mr. Ingersoll married Miss Katherine Fromme, of Urbana, Ohio, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. V. Fromme. He is a leading attorney in Urbana. Mrs. Ingersoll is a graduate of Ohio State University, and was a teacher in the public schools of Ironton, Ohio, before her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Ingersoll have been born two sons: Henry Fromme, born May 17, 1926; and John Edward, born July 11, 1929. Mr. Ingersoll is a member of the Congregational Church and belongs to the Young Men's Club of Elyria, and Delta Upsilon fraternity. C. S. Keiser, who is serving as auditor of Lorain County, is a highly esteemed and widely known citizen of Lorain, where he has been identified with the public schools for almost 32 years. He was born at Orrville, Ohio, March 3, 1874, the son of Rev. Philip and Lucy (Griffith) Kelser. Rev. Philip Kelser was born on a farm south of Loudonville, in Holmes County, Ohio, and his wife was a native of Clinton, Summit County, Ohio. He was a minister of the Methodist Church and served 40 years in the North Ohio Conference. He died in 1925 and is buried at Medina. His wife died in July, 1884, and is buried at Clinton. Reverend and Mrs. Kelser were the parents of the following children: Mrs. A. E. Willett, lives at Plymouth, Richland County ; Rev. Milo G., who died at Westerville, Ohio, in 1925; Mrs. George Johnston, lives at Blue Ash, Hamilton County, Ohio ; Paul, lives at Westerville ; John and Fred, live at Medina ; and C. S., the subject of this sketch. C. S. Kelser spent his early life in Ohio, his father's work as a minister making it necessary for the family to make numerous changes of residence. He is a graduate of Shreve High School, and Baldwin-Wallace College. Mr. Kelser began his teaching career in 1893 at Huntington. The following year he removed to Dalton where he taught school for five years. He has been a resident of Lorain since 1899, and has been a member of the high school faculty for thirty years. 1478 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO In August, 1898, Mr. Kelser was united in marriage with Miss May Welty, of Dalton, Ohio, the daughter of Abraham Welty, who was a native of Westmoreland County, Pa. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried at Dalton. To Mr. and Mrs. Kelser were born two sons: Vincent W., who died in Columbus in 1918; and Charles Philip, who is identified with the Community Finance Company, Lorain. Mr. Kelser is a Republican and assumed the duties of office as auditor of Lorain County on March 9, 1931. He has also been a member of the district board of health, Lorain. He and his family hold membership in the First Methodist Episcopal Church, and he belongs to the Holman Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 699 ; Knights of Pythias ; and Kiwanis Club. John James Kolopos is widely known in Elyria, where he is successfully engaged in the insurance and real estate business, with offices at 571 West Third Street. He was born in Hungary, Jan. 12, 1896, the son of John and Julia (Szabo) Kolopos. John Kolopos came to the United States as a young man and settled in Cleveland, where he followed his trade as a molder for 16 years. He later lived in Chicago and came to Elyria in 1903, where he was well known as the proprietor of a cafe until 1916. Mr. Kolopos was living retired at the time of his death in 1918. He is buried in St. Mary's Cemetery, Elyria. His widow lives in this city. John James Kolopos attended the public schools of Elyria and is a graduate of Elyria High School, class of 1915. He enlisted in the national guard in 1916 and in July, 1917, enlisted for service in the regular army during the World War. He was stationed at Montgomery, Ala., as a member of the 37th Division, and later was transferred to Camp Jackson, S. C. He was discharged from the service, Jan. 5, 1919, and upon his return to Elyria became interested in the real estate and insurance business. Since April, 1930, he has also been proprietor of a gasoline service station at West Third and River streets. On June 19, 1918, Mr. Kolopos married Miss Mary Ethel Vernell, who was born at Lorain, Dec. 7, 1897, the daughter of Nicholas and Sophia Vernell. Mr. and Mrs. Kolopos are the parents of three children : Mary Helen, born in 1919 ; Nicholas, born in 1921; and Virginia May, born May 5, 1926. Mr. Kolopos is identified with the Republican party in politics and has held the office of city assessor. He is an active member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and belongs to Eagles Lodge, American Legion, and "40 and 8 Society." HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1479 Mr. Kolopos has always been interested in professional football, and for four years was manager of the Elyria Tigers. He is well known as a promoter of local boxing bouts, and manifests an active interest in all church and club benefit affairs. Walter S. Kohn, who is associated with the firm of Corts & Kohn, proprietors of the Hi-Speed Service Stations in Elyria and Lorain, with headquarters at 116 Perry Court, Elyria, is recognized as a dependable business man of Lorain County. He was born in VanWert County, Ohio, March 24, 1888, the son of Rev. Horace and Josephine (Simpson) Kohn. Rev. Horace Kohn was a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, born Oct. 10, 1843. He was a graduate of Wooster College and was widely known throughout as a minister of the Methodist Church. He died Feb. 28, 1914, and is buried in VanWert County. His wife is also deceased. They were the parents of the following children : Doctor Ernest, physician, lives at Grover Hill, Ohio ; Clarence, lives at VanWert ; Laura, the widow of John H. Banta, lives at Grover Hill ; Florence, married E. E. Smith, lives at Beaver, Pa.; Homer, lives in Michigan ; and Walter, the subject of this sketch. Walter Kohn attended the public schools of VanWert County and entered Purdue University after his graduation from high school. He left college after one year and engaged in business at Lima, Ohio, until 1916, when he removed to Cleveland, where he spent four years in the employ of the Guarantee Title & Trust Company. He was also identified with the Guardian Trust Company, and in June, 1922, became associated in business with his brother-in-law, R. F. Corts. The firm carry on a wholesale and retail business and are agents for Hi-Speed gasoline and Tiolene oils. Their first station, located at Cleveland Avenue and Perry Court, is one of the finest service stations in the city. A second station in Elyria is located at Lake and Huron streets. Their Lorain stations are located at Broadway and 19th streets, East Erie and George Avenue, 30th and Pearl streets. The company also operates two stations in Lakewood : Detroit Avenue and Rosewood ; Madison Avenue and Lewis Drive. On April 24, 1912, Mr. Kohn was united in marriage with Miss Ruth Marie Corts, of Lancaster, Ohio, the daughter of W. F. and Alice (Sandals) Corts, who are residents of Lakewood. They have a son, William Horace, born Oct. 10, 1913. He is a graduate of Elyria High School, class of 1931. In politics Mr. Kohn is identified with the Republican party and is serving as a member of the city council. He holds membership in the 1480 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Methodist Church and is affiliated with Lakewood Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 601; Marshall Chapter, R. A. M., No. 47; Elyria Council, R. and S. M., No. 86; Elyria Commandery, K. T., No. 60 ; Al Koran Temple, Cleveland; Shrine Club of Elyria ; B. P. 0. Elks, No. 465; Y. M. C. A.; Elyria Rotary Club ; and Spring Valley Country Club. Mr. Kohn lives with his family at 205 Cleveland Street, Elyria. Harry Raymond Priest, widely known as a manufacturer of dental supplies, is one of the most prominent business men of Loudonville, and is a direct descendant of James Loudon Priest, who was the founder of Loudonville. Mr. Priest was born in this city, Feb. 2, 1881, the son of C. D. Priest and Elizabeth V. (McCreary) Priest. C. D. Priest's early life was spent upon his father's farm two miles east of Loudonville. From the country district school he came to the Loudonville Academy which was then quite an institution of learning. Leaving this, he went to the Iron City Commercial College at Pittsburgh, from which he graduated in 1863. After completing his education there, he went to the Academy at Hayesville until Professor Deifendorf left this to take charge of a similar institution in Nebraska, where Mr. Priest joined him and taught for him one year. From here we went to Kenyon College, and when in his senior year at College, his eyesight failed him. When he recovered from this affliction he went to teaching and for two years taught in the high school at Shreve, Ohio, after which he successfully conducted a select school. Later, he engaged in the hardware business at Loudonville, and in 1882 organized the Farmers Bank of Loudonville, for which he served as president. He died in 1883 at the age of 39 years, and is buried in Loudonville. His widow, born in Butler County, Ohio, resides in this city. There were two children born to Mr. and Mrs. Priest: Golda M., married L. P. Winterhalter, lives at Canton, Ohio ; and Harry Raymond, the subject of this sketch. The boyhood of Harry Raymond Priest was spent in Loudonville, where he received his early education. He attended Kenyon Military Academy, and Ohio Wesleyan University, and also took a business course at Dyke's Business College, Cleveland. Upon his return to Loudonville he organized the Eureka Suction Company, manufacturers of dental supplies. This enterprise has enjoyed a rapid growth, and is among the few organizations of its type in the state. Mr. Priest has made numerous valuable inventions in this particular field of work, and has a number of patents now pending. On Sept. 9, 1908, Mr. Priest married Miss Maude Eunice McKinley, of Hayesville, the daughter of S. E. and Mary (Brubaker) McKinley, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1481 natives of Ashland County. Mr. McKinley died in 1923, and is buried at Ashland. His widow lives in Ashland. Mr. and Mrs. Priest have two daughters: Mary Elizabeth, born Oct. 5, 1912, a graduate of Loudonville High School, class of 1930, attends Ohio Wesleyan University ; Kathryn Louise, born Oct. 17, 1916, attends Loudonville High School. The family residence, located in the heart of Loudonville, at Butler and Water streets, is among the finest homes to be found in Ashland County, and includes Mr. Priest's famous den, which is known as "Nick's Mammoth Cave." The grounds are attractively landscaped, their beauty being enhanced by two formal sunken gardens. The Priest family holds membership in the Methodist Church. Roy A. Moulton, deceased, was a representative business man and highly esteemed citizen of Elyria, where he was founder of the R. A. Moulton & Company, wholesale confectioners. He was born at Axtel, Erie County, Ohio, March 24, 1888, the son of Arthur and Fannie A. (Champney) Moulton. Arthur Moulton was born at Vermilion, Ohio, the son of John Moulton, a native of Pennsylvania. The former died in 1890 and his widow later married Chris Kropf, of Vermilion. Fannie A. (Champney) Moulton was the daughter of Lewis and Mary J. (Webster) Champney, who came to Vermilion, Ohio, from Lynn, Mass., in 1858. Lewis Champney was a merchant. At the age of 16 years Roy A. Moulton came to Elyria, after having spent his early youth with his maternal grandparents. He was employed in various capacities before entering the candy business with the James Russell Candy Company, of Elyria. In 1916 he took over the interests of the firm and established R. A. Moulton & Company, which he successfully managed until his death, March 24, 1930. He is buried in Ridgelawn Cemetery, Elyria. His widow is now the owner and operator of the business, which is located at 705 Lake Avenue. The distribution territory extends over the whole of Lorain County, employing two traveling salesmen. On Aug. 29, 1906, Mr. Moulton was united in marriage with Miss Belle Stevel, of Elyria, the daughter of James and Catherine (Seip) Stevel. The former died April 12, 1897, and the latter lives in Elyria. Jacob Stevel, grandfather of Mrs. Moulton, was a native of Germany and one of the earliest settlers of Elyria. Mr. and Mrs. Moulton had no children. Mr. Moulton had served as a member of the Elyria city council during 1928-29 and took an active part in local affairs. He was affiliated with 1482 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO the Knights of Pythias and Eagles Lodge. Mrs. Moulton is a member of the Second Congregational Church of Elyria. The home is at 641 Dewey Avenue. E. A. Welsh. One of the prominent figures in business circles in Elyria is E. A. Welsh, funeral director, who has engaged in business in this city for almost 25 years. He was born in Franklin Township, Columbiana County, Ohio. Mr. Welsh received his education in the public schools and attended Canfield College. He taught school for a time and later was identified with the Akron Rubber Company. He came to Elyria in 1897, and spent the following six years in the employ of the National Tube Company. After completing a course of study with the Columbus College of Embalming, Mr. Welsh returned to Elyria to establish his present business. His funeral home has been located at 202 West Bridge Street for the past 18 years. His wife is also interested in business as the proprietor of an interior decorating establishment, which she conducts in connection with her husband's business. Mr. Welsh married Miss Anna M. Wilhelmy, of Elyria, in 1906. She was born at Avon, Ohio. They are the parents of the following children : Raymond and John, who are associated in business with their father; Marian, a graduate of Elyria High School and Elyria Business College ; Marcella and Robert, students ; and Thomas, deceased. Politically, Mr. Welsh is a Democrat. He holds membership in St. Mary's Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus, 3rd degree ; B. P. 0. Elks ; Loyal Order of Moose ; and Knights of St. John. Ralph J. Bauer is successfully engaged in business in Elyria, being identified with Bauer Brothers Dairy. He was born in Cleveland, Sept. 18, 1897, the son of Frederick M. and Clara (Bolwick) Bauer. Frederick M. Bauer is a native of Ohio, and for many years was interested in the dairy business in Elyria. From 1928 until 1930 he was the proprietor of an automobile agency in this city, and is now engaged in the insurance business. His wife, born at Port Clinton, Ohio, died in 1918, and is buried at Ridgeville. Their children were : Paul and Mary, both deceased ; Helen, married Paul Scheiver, lives at Tiffin ; Lyola, married Martin O'Boyle, lives at Cleveland ; Lucille, married Hugh Kirkbridge, lives at Elyria ; Ralph J., the subject of this sketch ; and Alfred, born Nov. 17, 1899, is associated in business with his brother in Elyria as HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1483 proprietors of Bauer Brothers Dairy. Tie was married July 3, 1922, to Miss Mary Hennick, of Elyria, and they have two children, Joyce and Alfred, Jr.; Frederick, lives at Elyria; and Loretta, married Herman Blaser, lives at Fostoria. Ralph J. Bauer was 14 years old when his parents removed from Cleveland to Ridgeville. Later the family removed to Elyria, where at an early age Mr. Bauer became interested in the dairy business. He and his brother purchased the Home Dairy, which was later consolidated with the Park Dairy, and known as the Park-Home Dairy Company. The Bauer Brothers left this firm in 1926 and at that time established their own business at 346 Thirteenth Street. They handle a complete line of dairy products, their territory including Elyria and Ridgeville. They operate four motor trucks and distribute 400 gallons of milk daily. On June 18, 1921, Mr. Bauer was married in Windsor, Canada, to Miss Carolyn Olmutz, of Lorain. They have three children: Joan, Charleen, and Karen. Mr. Bauer is a Democrat and belongs to the Elks Lodge, Loyal Order of Moose, and Eagles. Clarence C. Ziemke is a well known citizen of Elyria, where he is superintendent of Ridgelawn and Brookdale cemeteries. He was born at Sandusky, Ohio, Oct. 1, 1897, the son of Gust and Bertha (Lepinzie) Ziemke. Gust Ziemke was a native of Germany, as was his wife. Early in life they emigrated to the United States and settled on a farm near Sandusky. Mr. Ziemke died in 1900 at the age of 44 years and his wife died in 1912. They are buried in Oakland Cemetery, Sandusky. To Mr. and Mrs. Ziemke the following children were born: Otto, who met with an accidental death in 1929; Emma, married Henry Mehling, lives at Sandusky; August, lives at Sandusky ; Herman, lives at Sandusky ; Minnie, married George Wicker, lives at Elyria ; Frank, deceased; George, lives at Norwalk; Laura, married Frank Smith, lives at Cleveland ; and Clarence C., the subject of this sketch. Clarence C. Ziemke grew up in Sandusky and attended the public schools. At the age of 11 years he was forced to leave school to earn his living. He remained in Sandusky until he was 21 years old and then went to Oklahoma and later to Washington, being employed in the Puget Sound Navy Yards in the latter state. After several years he returned to Sandusky and followed the trade of machinist in that city until 1920. Mr. Ziemke has since been a resident of Elyria and in February, 1928, 1484 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO accepted his present position as superintendent of Ridgelawn and Brook-dale cemeteries. Mr. Ziemke holds membership in the Lutheran Church, and belongs to the Loyal Order of Moose and Eagles Lodge. He is a Republican in politics. He is unmarried and lives at 129 Beverly Court, Elyria. Arthur Lovett Garford. Among Ohio's best known manufacturers, the name of Arthur Garford has had a distinguished place for thirty years. His home since birth has been at Elyria. For a number of years he was also a prominent leader in Ohio politics and civic reform. Mr. Garford was born on a farm now included within the city limits of Elyria, Aug. 4, 1858, the son of George and Hannah (Lovett) Garford, one of a family of eight children. George Garford was born in England, as was his wife, the former in Northamptonshire and the latter in Leicestershire. The Garfords for three hundred years had acted as custodians and managers of a large English estate. His maternal grandfather, Edward Lovett, was a silk and lace manufacturer. George Garford and Hannah Lovett were married in Kegworth, England, in 1851. The next year he came to the United States, bought a small parcel of land near Elyria and built a humble log dwelling for his wife and child, who arrived in 1853. As a landscape gardener he laid out and improved some of the most attractive estates around Elyria. Subsequently he acquired land and called it "Elywood Farm" and became a breeder of fine blooded stock. Mr. Garford was one of the useful and honored citizens of Elyria for 60 years, and died there Feb. 16, 1911. His wife died in 1913. Arthur L. Garford was graduated from the Elyria High School in 1875, and from 1877 until 1880 he was employed as an accountant in Cleveland, and then successively served as a bookkeeper, teller, and cashier in the Savings Deposit Bank of Elyria. Mr. Garford resigned in 1892 to manufacture the Garford bicycle saddle, which he had devised and patented. For a number of years the Garford bicycle saddle was the most popular on the market, and in fact came into almost universal use and served to make Mr. Garford's name known to millions. At one time the output of the Garford works at Elyria reached a million saddles a year. This corporation was finally merged with the American Bicycle Company, of which Mr. Garford was elected treasurer, with headquarters in New York. In 1901 Mr. Garford organized the Automobile & Cycle Parts Company, which was subsequently known as the Federal Manufacturing Com- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1485 pany and of which he was president until 1905. In that year he bought from the company its automobile parts plant in Cleveland and Elyria and formed the Garford Company to manufacture high grade automobiles. The Studebakers of South Bend, Ind., became interested in the company but Mr. Garford retained the controlling interest. The company erected at Elyria what was then one of the largest and best appointed factories in the country. The Garford Company was sold in July, 1912, to John N. Willys, of the Willys-Overland Company, of Toledo. In 1914 Mr. Garford organized the Garford Manufacturing Company, of Elyria, to take over the Dean Electric Company's properties, manufacturing telephones and switchboards, also home light plants. He was president of this company. He also became treasurer of the Garford Engineering Company, which he organized in 1913. In 1902 Mr. Garford went to France and reorganized the Cleveland Machine Screw Company under the name of the Cleveland Automatic Machine Company, and subsequently acquired the control and for the past thirty years has been president of this corporation. In 1903 he organized the Columbia Steel Company of Elyria. In 1905 he helped organize the Perry-Fay Manufacturing Company and is now a director; also in establishing the American Lace Manufacturing Company, of Elyria, of which he is president. He was formerly principal owner and president of the Republican Printing Company, Elyria Ht it is chairman of the board and director of the Savings Deposit Bank & Trust Company, of Elyria; a director of the Standard Trust Bank of Cleveland. He is president of the Electro-Alloys Company, of Elyria. For nine years Mr. Garford was a member of the Republican State Central Committee and a delegate to the National Republican conventions of 1896, when President McKinley was nominated, and in 1908, when President Taft was nominated. He was a member of the progressive wing of the Ohio party and was chairman of the Ohio delegation in the national conventions of 1912, when the famous split occurred in the party, and again in 1916, 1920, and 1928, at the nominations of Presidents Coolidge and Hoover. During the World War he was chairman of the Northern Ohio Draft Board of Appeals and rendered service to the government in numerous ways. Mr. Garford was offered the Republican nomination for governor during the campaign of Taft, providing he would support the candidate. This he refused to do, and though he was a favorite in the balloting the reactionary leaders finally secured the nomination for Judge Dillon, who refused to run. Later in the campaign, after the Progressive party had perfected its organization, Mr. Garford announced his support of the new party and at its state convention in September accepted the nomination for governor and more than two hun- 1486 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO dred thousand votes were cast for him. He continued to act as a leader and in the Progressive party until it ceased to exist as a separate party organization in 1916. Mr. Garford called the meeting of local citizens to promote the movement to secure a pure water supply from Lake Erie, and persistently worked for the success of the movement until its objective was obtained, seven years later. He started the movement to organize the Young Men's Christian Association of Elyria and served as its president a number of years. He was the first president of the Elyria Chamber of Commerce, and of the Elyria Country Club. He is chairman of the board of trustees of the Elyria Public Library and chairman of the First Congregational Society. He belongs to the Ohio Society of New York, the National Civic Federation, and the Union and Tippecanoe Clubs of Cleveland. He is trustee of Lincoln Memorial University of Harrogate, Tenn., and treasurer of its endowment fund. On December 14, 1881, Mr. Garford married Miss Mary Louise Nelson, the daughter of a prominent Elyria citizen, Thomas Nelson. They have two daughters : Mary Katharine, the wife of James B. Thomas, of Elyria ; and Louise Ely, the wife of Emanuele Lavagnino, of Pasadena, Calif. Leon E. Kennedy. One of the substantial business men of Elyria is Mr. Kennedy, who is identified with the Kennedy Coal Company. He was born at Olena, Huron County, Ohio, Oct. 31, 1895, the son of John and Anna (O'Dell) Kennedy. John Kennedy was born on a farm near Olena, Ohio. After his marriage on Dec. 23, 1892, he removed to Elyria and for three years was employed by the West Side Lumber & Coal Company. He has since been connected with the freight depot of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in this city as a foreman. His wife is prominently identified with W. C. T. U. work in the city and is an active church worker. To Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy were born two children: Myrtina, born at Oberlin, Ohio, a graduate of Elyria High School, and engaged in missionary work until her marriage to Frederick slack, of Akron, Ohio, and they live at Grand Rapids, Mich., where he is chief chemist for the Corduroy Tire Company. They have three children: Kennedy, Elizabeth, and Winifred. 2. Leon E., the subject of this sketch. Leon E. Kennedy obtained his education in the public schools of Olena and Elyria, and for a time was associated in business in the latter city with a Mr. Cooper. In 1921 Mr. Cooper sold his interest in the coal busi- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1487 ness to Jerry Bartholomew, and continued as a partner with Mr. Kennedy until 1925, at which time Mr. Kennedy became sole owner of the business. His mother is bookkeeper in the company's office. The Kennedy Coal Company, with yards on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, has an extensive retail trade in the city and are exclusive agents for the Blue Gem and Black Joe brands of coal. Mr. Kennedy married Miss Marguerite. Tattersall, of Elyria, the daughter of C. W. Tattersall, well known dairyman of this city. They are the parents of three sons : John, Richard, and Douglas. Politically, Mr. Kennedy is a Republican. He is a member of the Second Congregational Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge, and Chamber of Commerce. J. A. Lucas. As proprietor of the J. A. Lucas Heating and Plumbing Company, Mr. Lucas is recognized as one of the dependable and highly successful business men of Elyria, where he has engaged in business for more than a quarter of a century. He was born at Widder, Canada, Sept. 6, 1872. When he was three years of age, J. A. Lucas came to Elyria with his parents, and with the exception of two years which were spent in Texas, Mr. Lucas has remained in this city. For several years he was identified with the plumbing business of M. W. Foley, and later went with the F. H. Lewis Plumbing Company. He was also associated in business with John Bath, formerly postmaster, and Charles Salisbury, former sheriff of Lorain County. J. C. Devitt also engaged in business for a time with Mr. Lucas, and in 1920 the latter became sole owner of the business. He is recognized as the leading plumbing contractor in Elyria and has a well established business. Mr. Lucas has had contracts throughout North Central Ohio, including work at Wooster College, Oberlin College, Elyria Memorial Hospital, Masonic Temple Building, and the Gates Home for Crippled Children. An average of 10 or 12 men are employed by the company. Recently Mr. Lucas has enlarged his scope of business and makes a specialty of installing gas appliances, stokers, and water softeners. On July 15, 1897, Mr. Lucas married Miss Ida Joy, of Russia Township, Lorain County. They have three children : 1. Russell A., born Feb. 17, 1899, connected with the Columbia Gas system, Pittsburgh, Pa. He married Miss Agnes Moroney, and they have a son, James. 2. Jack E., born July 20, 1904, a graduate of Elyria High School, and Ohio State University. He is an engineer with the American Rolling Mills, Middletown. He married Miss Bernice Penniston, of Waverly, Ohio, who is deceased. 1488 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO They had a daughter, Bernice, who lives in Chicago. 3. Maxine, born Oct. 29, 1908, a graduate of Elyria High School and Oberlin Business College. She is employed in her father's office. Mr. Lucas is a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and is affiliated with B. P. 0. Elks, and Loyal Order of Moose. He has always been a Republican. The Lucas family live at 250 Howe Street, Elyria. Rev. Albert A. Fate is among the most widely known and highly esteemed citizens of Shelby, where he is pastor of the Church of the Most Pure Heart of Mary. He was born at Tiffin, Ohio, Aug. 19, 1887, the son of Michael and Mary (Homeier) Fate. Michael Fate was born at Tiffin, Ohio, as was his wife. He engaged in the meat business in that city for many years, and had a well established wholesale and retail trade. Mr. Fate died in 1921 and is buried at Tiffin. He was a Democrat, a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, and belonged to the Knights of Columbus. There were nine children born to Mr. and Mrs. Fate, as follows: Albert A., the subject of this sketch; Adelaide, married Joseph Distel, lives at Tiffin; Eleanor, married Daniel Wells, lives at Cleveland ; Joseph Bernard, lives at Tiffin; Mary, lives at Tiffin; William Michael, lives at Tiffin; Lillian, married Richard Bushkuhl, lives at Fostoria ; Rev. Francis, a graduate of St. Joseph's College, at Rennselaer, Ind., and St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, Md., class of 1930, now aassistant pastor at Mansfield; and Agnes, lives at Tiffin. Albert A. Fate received his early schooling at St. Joseph's parochial school in Tiffin. In 1903 he entered St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Wis., and in 1908 was graduated from St. Joseph's College, Rennselaer, Ind., with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He then took up the study of theology at St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore, Md., from which he received the degrees of M. A. and S. T. B. He was ordained to the priesthood at Toledo, Ohio, in 1913 by Bishop Joseph Schrembs, and at that time, April, 1913, was appointed assistant pastor of St. John's Catholic Church at Delphos, Ohio. He subsequently served at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Toledo, and in April, 1915, became pastor of St. Boniface Catholic Church at Oak Harbor, Ohio. While in that charge, Reverend Fate built a beautiful new church, school and sisters' home, and also remodeled the pastor's residence. He came to Shelby on April 15, 1923, as pastor of the Church of the Most Pure Heart of Mary, and during his pastorate here has accomplished much in building up the parish. He has erected a new church, enlarged the sisters' home, renovated the school HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1489 building, and improved the rectory, as well as having accomplished the plan of giving to the parish a high school. Reverend Fate is chaplain of Shelby Council No. 1944, Knights of Columbus, chaplain of the Ladies Catholic Benevolent Association, chaplain of the Catholic Ladies of Columbia, and chaplain of the Catholic Knights of Ohio. Schiller Bertram Pfau. Widely known in business circles throughout Lorain County is Mr. Pfau, who is successfully engaged in the automobile business in Elyria as agent for the Cadillac, LaSalle and Chevrolet automobiles. He was born in Youngstown, Ohio, July 17, 1902, the son of S. A. and Lilla (Schiller) Pfau. S. A. Pfau was born at Springfield, Ohio. For many years he was interested in the real estate and insurance business at Youngstown, and later conducted an automobile business. He is now retired. After his graduation from Youngstown High School in 1921, Schiller Bertram Pfau entered the Wharton School of Finance, University of Pennsylvania, which he attended until 1923. Upon his return to Youngstown he became interested in the automobile business as agent for the Graham-Paige car. He came to Elyria in 1927 and established his present business at 112 East Bridge Street. On Dec. 15, 1923, Mr. Pfau was united in marriage with Miss Alice Bernice Peck, of Youngstown, Ohio. She is a graduate of Oberlin Kindergarten School, and was a teacher before her marriage. She is the daughter of Fred A. and Anna Peck, of Elyria. Mr. and Mrs. Pfau have a daughter, Marjorie Alice. Mr. Pfau is a Republican, a member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church, of Youngstown, and belongs to B. P. 0. Elks, Beta Theta Pi fraternity, Rotary Club, and Elyria Country Club. He and his family live at 133 Eastern Heights Boulevard, Elyria. L. S. Douglass, who is proprietor of the Philadelphia Battery and Ignition Company, of Elyria, is widely and favorably known throughout Lorain County. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, Nov. 22, 1886, the son of Chas. Lee and Rosseta L. Douglass. Mr. Douglass attended the public schools of Cleveland and is a graduate of Central High School, class of 1906. He entered Cornell University in the fall of 1906, taking a mechanical engineering course, graduating in 1910 with a degree of Electrical Engineer. He became interested 1490 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO in electrical work at an early age and began his business career with the Peerless Motor Car Company of Cleveland, with whom he was identified until 1912. He then became associated with E. P. Roberts, who was consulting electrical engineer for N. J. Rich & Company. Later, he went with the Baker Motor Vehicle Company, Cleveland. For a time Mr. Douglass was employed by the Baker Company in their Detroit branch. His next business connection was with the Philadelphia Storage Battery Company, Cleveland, with whom he was identified for eight years, the last three being spent as manager. He came to Elyria in 1921, although he had owned an interest in his business in this city since 1919. The Philadelphia Battery and Ignition Co. handles all types of automobile batteries and electrical equipment, and renders service throughout Lorain County. They also sell and service radios. In July, 1921, Mr. Douglass was united in marriage with Miss Janet McCaa, of Cleveland, a daughter of R. A. McCaa, a Manxman, a native of Isle of Mann, now retired, having for many years been associated with Bishop-Babcock of Cleveland. They have three children : Roxy Lee, Janet, and Gloria. Mr. Douglass is a Republican, is affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge, and Spring Valley Country Club. The family live at 321 Dennison Avenue. William B. Timms, who is president of the Timms Springs Manufacturing Company, Elyria, is a representative business man of Lorain County. He was born in Glasgow, Scotland, Dec. 13, 1888, and was three years of age when his parents brought him to the United States. They settled in New York City, where Mr. Timms remained until he was 21 years old. He spent five years in the employ of the Edison Phonograph Company in New York, and later came to Cleveland with the U. S. Phonograph Company, with whom he was identified for three years. He served as manufacturer's agent throughout Northern Ohio, and in 1920 came to Elyria, where he took an active part in the organization of the H. and T. Springs Company, being associated in the enterprise with H. E. Hall, who served as president of the company, with Mr. Timms as vice president and manager, and Claude Blanchard as treasurer. Mrs. William B. Timms was secretary. The business was capitalized at $25,000, the original plant being located on Buckeye Street. On Nov. 9, 1929, the company's plant was completely destroyed by explosion. It was rebuilt at Taylor. and Boston streets in March, 1930, and reorganized at that time with a HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1491 capital stock of $40,000. The present officers are : William B. Timms, president ; H. W. Pond, vice president ; and Mrs. William B. Timms, secretary and treasurer. They are widely known manufacturers of all kinds of mechanical springs. On Nov. 20, 1915, Mr. Timms was united in marriage with Miss Mayme Rowen, of Cleveland. She is a graduate of the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. Mr. and Mrs. Timms have two children: Eleanor Anne, born in 1919 ; and William B., Jr., born in 1925. Mr. Timms is a Republican, a member of the Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge ; Knights Templar, 32nd degree ; Scottish Rite, and Shrine ; and B. P. 0. Elks. He also is a member of the Union Club of Cleveland, and Elyria Country Club. He is vice president of the Y. M. C. A., and a director of the Elytia Memorial Hospital. The family residence, "Gulf Farms," is in Elyria. Arthur J. Curren. One of the best built telephone properties in Ohio is the automatic telephone and cable system of the Elyria Telephone Company. Since no city can attain or maintain its full measure of prosperity without prompt and efficient service, the people of Elyria have taken due pride in the possession of facilities represented by this public utility, and those familiar with its development and improvement have given corresponding tribute to the work of Arthur J. Curren, who has had the management for many years and is at present chief executive of the company. Mr. Curren is a telephone engineer of broad experience and has been continuously identified with the telephone industry since 1900. Mr. Curren was born at Delaware, Ohio, Aug. 6, 1876, and his parents, Joseph F. and Mary Allison (Gavitt) Curren, were natives of the same county. His paternal grandparents were Stephen and Elizabeth (Stratton) Curren, the former a native of New York and the latter of Virginia. They became early settlers of the town of Norton, in Delaware County, where Stephen Curren was proprietor of an inn on the old Columbus-Sandusky stage coach line. The maternal grandparents were Ezekiel and Viola (Miller) Gavitt, the former a native of Granville, Ohio, and the latter of Sandusky County. Ezekiel Gavitt was a Methodist-Episcopal circuit rider in Northern Ohio for many years, and finally settled at Ashley, Delaware County, where he died at the age of 86 years. At the outbreak of the Civil War Joseph F. Curren was 21 and enlisted as a private in the 20th Infantry, taking part in many engagements, and receiving numerous promotions. He resigned as lieutenant to accept the office of 1492 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO adjutant with the 60th Ohio Infantry. On June 17, 1864, at the Battle of Fredericksburg, while in command of his regiment he lost his right arm. It is a coincident worthy of note that on the 17th of June, 1775, his great-uncle lost his leg at the Battle of Bunker Hill. After recovering sufficiently to rejoin his regiment, on account of the loss of his arm, he was transferred to the Veterans Reserve Corps of Boston, and was still in active service at the close of the war. Upon his return from the service he was married and settled in Delaware County. Soon afterwards he was appointed postmaster of Delaware, a position he held twelve years under Presidents Grant, Hayes, and Garfield. After leaving the post office he was in the real estate and insurance business, and in 1895 organized the Citizens Mutual Fire Insurance Company, which still enjoys a prosperous business. With this company he was identified at the time of his death in 1917 at the age of 79 years. His widow lives in Delaware. Arthur J. Curren was educated in the public schools of Delaware, graduating with the class of 1894. Almost immediately he began his experience in public utility work, serving two years as collector and general bookkeeper of the Delaware Gas Company. Then came three years of work in Ohio Wesleyan University. His boyhood enthusiasm had been largely directed to electricity and at college he turned naturally to the electrical field. In 1900 he took up telephone work, first with the Central Union Telephone Company, then for a brief time with the Cleveland Bell Telephone Company, leaving the Bell system to turn his attention to the independent field. That was the time when many independent plants were in construction throughout Ohio. As a field engineer with the Reserve Construction Company of Cleveland, he had a part in the building of the independent plants in the cities of Canton, Mansfield, and Lima. In April, 1902, he became chief engineer of the Gas Belt Construction Company, and in that capacity designed the telephone plants of Muncie, Alexandria, and Elwood, Ind. From Indiana he returned to Ohio and for nearly a year assisted in the promotion of the Queen City Telephone Company, of Cincinnati, but through inability to secure the many necessary franchises for a comprehensive system the enterprise was finally abandoned. In 1905 Mr. Curren accepted the management of the Elyria Telephone Company and since January, 1917, has been president. The company in 1918 erected a beautiful fireproof building, and installed an automatic telephone system, displacing the old style manual system. These superior mechanical facilities together with the cordial support and cooperation of the public, which were built up by Mr. Curren, have made the Elyria Telephone Company rank high throughout the State of Ohio. In 1922 his company purchased outright the local Bell exchange. In no small degree HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1493 the success of this public utility has been due to the splendid spirit of service that has actuated the personnel of the employes. In addition to his duties as an executive in the telephone business, Mr. Curren has manifested a keen interest in Elyria's civic and industrial affairs. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Elyria Savings & Trust Company, the Northern Building & Loan Association, the Elyria Investment Company and Telkor, Inc. Mr. Curren was a charter member of the Elyria Rotary Club, and belongs to Frank S. Harmon Lodge, F. & A. M., the Scottish Rite, 32nd degree, and member of Al Koran Temple. He holds membership in the Elyria Country Club, Spring Valley Country Club, Clifton Club and Mid-Day Club of Cleveland. He also is a member of the American Society of Electrical Engineers and both Bell and Independent Pioneers Telephone Association and Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He is a Republican. Mr. Curren is descended from Revolutionary stock on both sides of the family. He married in July, 1905, Miss Lottie Kirk, who is also descended from Revolutionary ancestors. She has always been deeply interested in the success of her husband's business undertakings. She was born at Maysville, Ky., the daughter of Robert C. and Ella (Fleming) Kirk, natives of Mason County, Ky. Mrs. Curren has reared and educated a nephew, Gilbert Jordan. Edward Minnich, who is a veteran of the World War, is one of the enterprising young business men of Elyria, where he is engaged in the cement and coal business. He was born at Elyria, Ohio, March 23, 1897, the son of Anton and Veronica (Delfing) Minnich. Anton Minnich, widely known in Elyria as the founder of A. Minnich & Sons, cement and coal dealers, was born at Ridgeville, Lorain County, Aug. 14, 1871. As a young man he learned the stone mason's trade and for several years was employed by the Lake Shore Railroad in the building of bridges and stone work. He later established the business in Elyria which now bears his name. He was among the first cement contractors in the city to manufacture concrete building blocks, and had under his supervision much of the contracting work in the city. Mr. Minnich successfully conducted this business from 1902 until January, 1925. He now lives retired. Veronica (Delfing) Minnich was born at Amherst, Feb. 17, 1873. To Mr. and Mrs. Minnich were born three children: Anton, who died in infancy ; Edward, the subject of this sketch ; and Agnes Catherine. She is a graduate of Elyria High School and Elyria Business College, and 1494 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO was married on Nov. 22, 1916, to Floyd R. Yost, mention of whom is made below. Edward Minnich attended the Elyria public schools and is a graduate of Elyria Business College. At an early age he became identified with his father's business and has devoted his entire time to it with the exception of time spent in the service during the World War. He enlisted and saw service with the U. S. Navy. On May 31, 1919, Mr. Minnich was united in marriage with Miss Ruth Baddaker, of Waukegan, Ill. Mr. Minnich is a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church and belongs to the Eagles Lodge. Floyd R. Yost, who is associated in business with Mr. Minnich, was born at Olmsted Falls, Ohio, March 31, 1895. He has been a resident of Elyria since 1912, and has been associated with the business of A. Minnich & Son since 1922, having purchased a half interest in 1924. As mentioned above, he married Agnes Catherine Minnich. They have two sons, Raymond Edward and John Russell. William Henry Gugler is among the leading business men of Mansfield, where he is identified with the G. & H. Supply Company as president and Farm Tools, Inc., as traffic manager. He was born at Galion, Ohio, Feb. 9, 1871, the son of Lewis J. and Louise (Hessenour) Gugler. Lewis J. Gugler was born near Heidelberg, Germany, in 1826. He came to the United States after his marriage in 1848 and settled at Galion, Ohio, where he established a cooperage business. He also owned and operated a flour mill at that place and continued in business until 1882, at which time he retired. Mr. Gugler died in 1888 and his wife died in 1901. Both are buried at Galion. Their children were: Kate, born in 1853, died in 1926, was the wife of Joseph Bittner ; J. Lewis, born in 1862, lives at Galion ; Nettie, born in 1866, married William Dennig, lives at Galion ; Clara, born in 1868, married Joseph Hurd, lives at Marion, Ohio; William Henry, the subject of this sketch ; and Emma, died in 1907, was the wife of Charles Manzer. The education of William Henry Gugler was received in the public schools of Galion, Ohio. He entered his father's business, with which he was associated until 1889. Mr. Gugler then came to Mansfield and entered the employ of L. 0. Thompson in the Boston Store. Later, he went with R. B. Maxwell, dry goods merchants, and with 0. B. Jamison, furniture dealer, where he was in charge of the drapery department. Mr. Gugler established the Mansfield Laundry with George Ford, and later disposed HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1495 of the plant to M. Cline. In 1907 he became identified with the Roderick Lean Company as traffic manager, and has served in that capacity to the present time. On July 1, 1930, the business was reorganized as the Farms Tools, Inc. It was in August, 1925, that Mr. Gugler became interested with Ralph Hoffman and Norman P. Henry in the establishment of the G. & H. Supply Company, with headquarters at 131 East Fifth Street. They are jobbers in agricultural implements and supplies. On June 20, 1894, Mr. Gugler was united in marriage with Miss Charlotte B. Platt, the daughter of Benjamin Franklin and Elizabeth (Littler) Platt. natives of Ohio. Mr. Platt was born in 1842 and died in 1910. His wife was born in 1839 and died in 1916. Both are buried in Mansfield. Mr. and Mrs. Gugler have a daughter, Miriam Platt, born in Mansfield, March 12, 1898. She is the wife of Dr. Charles L. Shafer, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. Mr. Gugler is an active member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church and director of the church choir. 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 ; Baku Grotto, M. 0. V. P. E. R. ; and Knights of Pythias. Politically, he is independent. W. J. Vogler. One of the dependable business men of Elyria is W. J. Vogler, of W. J. Vogler & Son, movers, packers and warehouse owners. He was. born at Brownhelm, Lorain County, May 16, 1865. Mr. Vogler came to Elyria in 1888, after having received his education in the public schools west of the city. He was employed for a short time in a stone quarry at $1.25 per day and then established the business which now bears his name. Mr. Vogler began with no capital whatsoever and through hard work developed the city's first moving and transfer business. During its early history the company handled its business by horse and wagon and now owns a fine fleet of moving vans and trucks. They own a modern fireproof warehouse and are specialists in long distance moving. Offices and warehouse are located at 121-25 Buckeye Street. On Nov. 19, 1895, Mr. Vogler was united in marriage with Miss Clara Werner, who was born in Germany on June 4, 1878. They have five children: 1. W. Ralph, who is secretary and treasurer of the business. He was born in Elyria, Dec. 25, 1902, and is a graduate of Elyria High School and Elyria Business College. He was married Dec. 18, 1926, to Miss Mabel Strother, of Elyria. 2. David, a graduate of Elyria High School and Elyria Business College. He is employed as secretary in the office of Telkor, Inc., Elyria. 3. Ruth Stolzenburg, owner of the Elyria Pure Milk 1496 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Company. 4. Marian, married Frank Ignasik, who is connected with the Colson Company, of Elyria. 5. Catherine, lives at home. Mr. Vogler attends the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to B. P. 0. Elks, Loyal Order of Moose, and Eagles Lodge. He has always been a Republican. Emmett C. Dix is associate owner with Albert Dix, in the Wooster Daily record, a newspaper that includes the history of one of the oldest newspapers in Wayne County and in its present form is one of the most influential journals published in any of the smaller cities of Ohio. The name Dix has been prominent in Ohio journalism for a great many years. Albert Dix, father of E. C. Dix, was born at Palmyra, Portage County, Ohio, Oct. 8, 1845, received his education in the district schools and was a school teacher for several years. At the age of 21 years he engaged in the mercantile business and was connected with that business for a period of 12 years. In 1879 he removed to Hamilton, Ohio, and for 18 years was manager of the Hamilton Daily News. It was in 1898 that he and his son, Emmett C., bought the Wooster Republican, the weekly issue of which has had a continuous history since 1816. Subsequently, Albert and Emmett Dix acquired the Wooster Journal, The Wooster Daily News and Democrat, and all other newspaper interests in Wooster. All in recent years have been consolidated as the Wooster Daily Record. Albert Dix continued the active management of this paper for many years. His career was at all times identified with civic affairs. He married Miss Mary E. Luke, also a native of Portage County, who died in 1911. Their only child was Emmett C., the subject of this sketch. Emmett C. Dix was born at Atwater, Portage County, Dec. 28, 1873, and was six years old when his parents settled at Hamilton, Butler County. He acquired a public school education and in 1897 was graduated from Hiram College. From early youth he received training in the newspaper field and readily chose newspaper work as his profession. A year after his graduation from college he became associated with his father in Wooster and for many years was editor of the Republican, and later of the Daily Record, and after his father's retirement he became the managing editor of the publication. Recently he has purchased and consolidated the newspapers at Ravenna, Ohio, which are now run under the title of The Evening Record, and has purchased the consolidated newspapers of Kent, Ohio, from Martin L. Davey. The Kent papers are published under the title of the Kent Courier-Tribune, and both the Kent and Ravenna HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1497 newspapers are published by sons of E. C. Dix, who are residents of Portage County. Mr. Dix was married in 1900 to Miss Edna M. Voorhees, of Waterloo, Ia. They have five sons : Albert V., Raymond, Robert, Gordon, and Harlan. Mr. Dix is a member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, has been 14 years superintendent of its Sunday School, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias lodges, and the Wooster Rotary Club. During 1922-23 and 1926-28 he was president of the Board of Trade. He is vice president of the Wayne County National Bank. Immaculate Conception Congregation, Bellevue, Ohio. By Rev. Terwoord—The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass had been offered at intervals in private dwellings in Bellevue by priests sent here by the Rt. Rev. Amadens Rapp, D. D., first bishop of the newly erected diocese of Cleveland, until about 1852 when Rev. Jas. Vincent Conlan, stationed at Holy Angels Church, Sandusky, established a Mission here and looked after the spiritual wants of the small congregation holding services at different times in dwellings until January, 1856, when he was succeeded by Rev. F. M. Boff as resident pastor of Holy Angels and likewise served the Bellevue Mission until his departure from Sandusky in March, 1857. Rev. A. Caron was then sent to Holy Angels and shortly afterward, Rev. Denis Tighe was appointed as his assistant with charge of Bellevue. During this period plans for providing a suitable place of worship were considered and the building of a church was contemplated. Steps were taken to realize this cherished hope, but before much was done the charge of this Mission was given to Rev. Narcissus Ponchill, then resident pastor of St. Peter's Church, Norwalk, who, early in 1859, organized the Catholics of this place and vicinity as a regular canonically established parish under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception and on May 11, 1858, purchased the frame warehouse and lots on which it stood from J. B. Higbee for $500.00. The building was soon transformed into a church and served as such until the completion of the present edifice in August, 1884. Father Ponchill remained in charge of the Mission until he was called, at the age of only 35 years, to his eternal reward, on Sept. 15, 1860. Rev. John Quinn succeeded Fr. Ponchill in December, 1860, being appointed first resident pastor of St. Mary's, Norwalk, a Mission organized by his predecessor (Fr. Ponchill), with Bellevue as a Mission which he however attended only until the following April, when Rev. Jas. Monahan was appointed first resident pastor of Bellevue. During his pastorate 1498 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO three lots and a frame house for a pastoral residence were purchased on July 18, 1863, at a cost of $1,100.00. Fr. Monahan was succeeded in September, 1866, by the Rev. Timothy M. Mahony, who established, in 1867, the parish school which has ever since continued with success. He also purchased ground for burial purposes which is now our beautiful St. Mary's Cemetery. The Rev. Edward Mears was the next resident pastor, his appointment having been made in August, 1871. He found the location of the church quite unsuitable, and as the prospects for the erection of a new church were very promising, he purchased, Jan. 20, 1873, two fine lots nearer the center of the town for $1,800.00. But the financial panic of 1873, whose dire effects struck the entire country, forced Father Mears and his people to indefinitely postpone the erection of the much needed church. In April, 1874, Father Mears was transferred to Crestline, and the Rev. J. D. Bowles was appointed to the pastorate of Bellevue, remaining in charge till May, 1876. During the following two months, Rev. G. Rudolph of St. Mary's, Clyde, attended Bellevue as a Mission, when the Rev. James Molloy was sent here in July, 1876, and was succeeded by the Rev. W. J. Gibbons on June 15, 1879. He requested a leave of absence in September, 1880, owing to the feeble state of his health, and went to Europe. During the interval between his resignation and the temporary appointment of the Rev. J. T. Cahill in November, 1880, the congregation was attended by the Rev. Secretary of the Diocese, Geo. F. Houck. Shortly after Father Cahill took charge the possibility of erecting a new church was debated. Plans were procured, inspected and approved and following the adoption, funds were raised and in August, 1881, work on the foundation was begun. In October of the same year Father Gibbons returned from his European visit much improved in health, and again took charge of the congregation. Work on the building was vigorously pushed and on July 9, 1882, the corner stone was laid and before winter the new brick edifice was enclosed. In the fall of 1882, Father Gibbons purchased an additional lot west of the new church, on which he immediately transferred the priest's residence. At the same time the three lots purchased by Father Monahan in 1863 were disposed of for $2,000.00. The church edifice was completed during the summer of 1884 and on August 3d was solemnly dedicated by the Rt. Rev. Richard Gilmore, Bishop of Cleveland. The church is an ornate brick structure 45 by 90 feet, of Gothic architecture, with two spires and stained glass windows and cost about $17,000. Father Gibbons continued to minister to the spiritual wants of the congregation till the following spring, when God called him to his eternal reward. After an illness of several weeks he died on April 1, 1885, lamented by all who knew him, and especially so by HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 1499 the people for whose spiritual welfare he had labored so hard and successfully. The Rev. F. Rupert was appointed to succeed Father Gibbons, and assumed charge on April 16, 1885. Desiring to improve the parochial school, he placed the same in charge of the Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin, Ohio, Sept. 1, 1885, and two months later (November, 1885) purchased a home and lot facing the church as a residence for these Sisters at a cost of $1,100. During the month of March, 1886, a handsome communion railing of black walnut and richly gilt, was placed in position in the new church at a cost of $208.00, a gift of the new pastor. The sanctuary, which had only two altars, was provided with an additional one and a statue of St. Joseph, costing $185.00. He also bought a supply of vestments at an outlay of $500.00, half of which sum he likewise donated. The financial condition at the close of the year 1886 was very good, considering the vast amount of property acquired, buildings erected and improvements made during the past five years. The indebtedness was reduced to $800.00—five hundred on the new church, and three hundred on the Sisters' residence, purchased the year before. The year 1887 was one of much activity for the parish. February 2d, the congregation purchased a brick tenement house situated immediately in the rear of the new church, which had been built and served as a public school for a number of years, for $1,325.00. Seven hundred dollars were spent in remodeling the building, which gave the parish a four-room school. September, 1887, the school was used for the first time and replaced the frame building used for this purpose, which stood west of the old church. Aug. 27, 1890, Rev. F. Rupert, the pastor, took a temporary departure, going to the Catholic University at Washington, D. C. During his absence Rev. P. W. Schirac, C. PPS., served the parish from August 27th to October 25th, and Rev. W. J. Smith, of the "Order of the Fathers of Mercy" from October 25th to Jan. 2, 1891, after which time Father Rupert assumed his pastoral charge. The Sisters' residence was enlarged and improved during the summer of 1892 at an expense of $1,200.00. In July the old frame church, which had been used as a recreation hall since it was abandoned as a church, was regarded as unsafe for use, was torn down and the lot on which it stood was sold for $260.00. In 1893, the parish was again cleared of all debts and when he was transferred to the pastorate of St. Paul's at Norwalk on Oct. 24, 1894, left a balance of several hundred dollars in the church treasury. Father Rupert's devotion to Catholic education was reflected in the high degree of efficiency to which the parish school was raised by his zealous work. Being an active worker both in spiritual mat-