(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) 650 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO of Wooster, formerly known as the Charity Hospital Medical College. He was graduated from that institution in 1869 and engaged in practice at Democracy, Ohio. Doctor Black died at Democracy, Ohio, in 1886. He had served throughout the Civil War, having enlisted in Company K, 139th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In 1869 Doctor Black married Miss Dora Jane Sapp, who was born at Brinkhaven, Ohio, June 5, 1850. Their children were: Aurilla, married S. G. Dowds, wholesale grocer, Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and they have four children: Robert Dalton, deceased; Dr. Edward D., lives at Shelby, Ohio ; Vivian, connected with the State Department, Columbus ; Marjorie, student. Robert Resee, the subject of this sketch. Eva, married Charles Kerr, and she died in December, 1928, leaving two children, Robert Kerr and Betty Kerr. Robert Resee Black obtained his early education in the public schools of Democracy, Ohio, and attended G. W. Michaels Business College at Delaware. He then read medicine with the late Dr. John E. Russell, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and subsequently attended Starling Medical College, now the College of Medicine, Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1897. Doctor Black established his practice at Galion, Ohio, in December, 1897, but removed to Mansfield in 1905, where he has since established an excellent practice. He is past president of the Mansfield General Hospital, and holds membership in the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. In 1898 Doctor Black was united in marriage with Miss Lulu Hall, the daughter of William and M. (Knight) Hall, natives of Knox County, Ohio, both now deceased. Mrs. Black is deceased. To Doctor and Mrs. Black was born a son, Robert Russell, born May 3, 1900. He is a graduate of University School, Cleveland, and the Wharton School of Finance, University of Pennsylvania, class of 1923. He was married Nov. 27, 1926, to Miss Margaret Maxwell, of Mansfield, who is a graduate of the Knox School for Girls, class of 1926. They have a daughter, Martha Louise, born June 18, 1929. Mr. Black lives at Shelby, Ohio, where he is the owner of the Black Furniture Company. Doctor Black was married on April 5, 1910, to Miss Harriet Moore, the daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Hershey) Moore, natives of Ashland County, Ohio. Both are deceased and are buried in Ashland Cemetery. Doctor Black is affiliated with Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Al Koran Temple ; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society ; and B. P. 0. Elks, No. 56, life member. He also belongs to the Kiwanis Club, Westbrook Country Club, and Mansfield City Club. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 651 Sidney L. Palmer is one of the progressive and widely known men of Mansfield, where he is sales engineer for the Ohio Brass Company. He was born in Weller Township, Richland County, June 1, 1870, the son of Henry G. and Louisa V. (Ferguson) Palmer. Henry G. Palmer, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Richland County, and spent his boyhood on his father's farm. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted in Company G. 15th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and saw almost five years of service, being seriously wounded in action. Mr. Palmer served as superintendent of the Richland County Children's Home for four years and was also superintendent of the State Working Home for the Blind at Iberia, Ohio, for a period of three years. Mr. Palmer was also a farmer and stockman and at one time owned a large, well improved farm in Weller Township. He was living retired at 23 Wood Street, Mansfield, at the time of his death in 1916. His widow still lives in Mansfield. She is a native of Weller Township. Mr. Palmer was a Republican, a member of the First Methodist Church, and Grand Army of the Republic. Sidney L. Palmer grew up in Weller Township and received his education in the public schools. He was graduated from Mansfield High School in 1889, and spent the next ten years as assistant superintendent of the Richland County Children's Home. He then went to Los Angeles, Calif., where he became sales manager of the electric department of the California Automobile Company, with which he was identified for five years. Upon his return to Mansfield he served as service manager for the Herring Automobile Company, and in 1913 went with the Ohio Brass Company, in charge of the inspection department. He later became a traveling service man for the company, and is now sales engineer, with territory throughout the United States and Canada. In 1895 Mr. Palmer married Miss Ada L. Mowry, the daughter of Matthias and Lorani (Early) Mowry, natives of Ohio, both now deceased. He served as superintendent of the Richland County Children's Home for a period of six years, and was also a Civil War veteran. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer have a daughter, Louise, who is a teacher in the Mansfield public schools. She is a graduate of Mansfield High School and Miami University, class of 1930. Mr. Palmer is a Republican in politics and is serving as councilman from the First Ward. He was appointed in 1927 to fill the unexpired term of Thomas R. Barnes, and was elected to that office in November, 1927, and re-elected in November, 1929. Mr. Palmer is an active member of the First Methodist Church, president of the First Methodist Episcopal Brotherhood, president of the Richland County Methodist Episcopal Brotherhood, and president of the 652 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Laymen's Association, Northeast Ohio Conference. He is president of the board of trustees of Madison Township Memorial Building. He has served as secretary of the Mansfield Community Fund for six years, and 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, and Mansfield Commandery, K. T. No. 21. Wayne E. Young, M. D. Among the capable physicians and surgeons of Richland County is Doctor Wayne E. Young, who has offices in Mansfield. He was born at North Baltimore, Ohio, July 4, 1895, the son of Charles Isaac and Jeanette (Likes) Young. Charles I. Young was born at Walnut Bend, Venango County, Pa., and his wife is a native of Mansfield. He was interested in the oil business early in life, and owned several wells at North Baltimore, Ohio. Later, lie went to Pleasantville, Pa., and then became identified with the United States Water Well Department, being sent to Luzon Island in the Philippines, with headquarters at Manilla, as superintendent of the waterworks department. Mr. Young died there in 1917. His widow now lives in Mansfield. Mr. Young was a Republican, a member of the Lutheran Church, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Young: Wayne E., the subject of this sketch ; and Audyne, lives at Mansfield. The boyhood of Wayne E. Young was spent at Pleasantville, Pa., where he received his early education. In 1913 he went to the Philippine Islands with his father and later returned via China, Japan, India, Spain, England and France, arriving in the United States in 1915. He spent the following two years at Grove City (Pa.) College, the next year at Allegheny College, Meadville, Pa., and in 1917 he entered the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1920. During the World War he had served in the Student Army Training Corps and was discharged with the rank of first lieutenant. Doctor Young spent 1920 in Cincinnati with the Lunkenheimer, Popcock & Valve Company, as an industrial surgeon, and in 1921 established his present practice in Mansfield. He has offices at 27 East Second Street. Doctor Young is a Democrat. In 1921 he was appointed assistant coroner of Richland County, and served in that capacity for two years, being elected coroner in November, 1922. He was re-elected in 1924 for a two year term. From 1922 until 1929 Doctor Young also served as township physician. He is an active member of the Richland County HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 653 Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, American Medical Association, Eclectic Medical Society, and National Eclectic Medical Society. Doctor Young is examining physician for the Fraternal Order of Eagles and Order of Owls. He is a member of the Coolridge Golf Club, and is one of the enthusiastic golfers of the city. Throughout his college career Doctor Young took an active part in athletics, being a member of the varsity football, basketball and track teams. He holds the rank of major in the Medical Reserve Corps of the Aviation Department, 83rd Division. Burdett E. Sheffler, M. D., who is widely known throughout North Central Ohio as the capable coroner of Richland County, is a veteran of the World War. He was born near Fremont, Sandusky County, Ohio, Sept. 12, 1896, the son of George W. and Ruth A. (Shepardson) Sheffler. George W. Sheffler was born near Kankakee, Ill., in 1846, and his wife is a native of Rochester, N. Y., born in 1855. They are now residents of Sandusky Township, Sandusky County, Ohio. For many years Mr. Sheffler was widely known as a road contractor and retired from business in 1914. Practically all of the early roads in Sandusky County were built by Mr. Sheffler. He is a Democrat and has served as township trustee and as a member of the school board. Mr. and Mrs. Sheffler have the following children: Samuel J., lives at Woodville, Ohio; Mabel, married Harry Cooper, lives in Illinois ; Ruth, married W. A. Wolland, lives at Cleveland, Ohio ; George W., Jr., lives in Sandusky County, Ohio; Lucy, who died in 1910; Benjamin H., lives at Tomahawk, Wis.; Lydia, married Frank Goodwin, lives at Wheeling, W. Va.; John, a World War veteran, having served in France, lives at home ; Carrie, married A. V. Baumann, attorney, lives at Fremont, Ohio ; and Burdett E., the subject of this sketch. Burdett E. Sheffler obtained his early education in the public schools of Sandusky County, Ohio, and in 1917 he was graduated from Fremont High School. He received the degree of Bachelor of Science from Ohio State University in 1921 and the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the same institution in 1924. The next year was spent as an interne at the Columbus State Hospital and the following year in the Mansfield General Hospital. Doctor Sheffler established offices in Mansfield in 1925 and has met with marked success in his profession. He was elected coroner of Richland County in 1926 and re-elected to office in 1928. On July 26, 1918, Doctor Sheffler enlisted in the U. S. Navy and was sent to the Great Lakes Training Station, where he attended an officers' 654 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO school. He was discharged with the rank of second class seaman in February, 1919. Doctor Sheffler is a member of the Richland County Medical Society, of which he is past vice president, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He belongs to Phi Rho Sigma medical fraternity of which he has served as president, secretary and treasurer. He also belongs to the Westbrook Country Club, American Legion, McVey Post No. 16, and Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56. Hon. Arliss F. Porter. As one of the outstanding citizens of Mansfield, where he has served as mayor, Mr. Porter is also widely known throughout Richland County. He was born at Green Camp, Marion County, Ohio, May 6, 1883, the son of David H. and Emma J. (Mathews) Porter. David H. Porter was born in Marion County, Ohio, Jan. 24, 1846, and died at Green Camp, Jan. 6, 1924. For many years he was a successful merchant at Green Camp and held the office of postmaster for a period of 24 years. He was a Republican, a member of the Baptist Church, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. To Mr. and Mrs. Porter were born four children : Malcolm A., postmaster, lives at Green Camp ; Metta, married Frank Borgardus, auditor, Budget Department, U. S. Government, Washington, D. C. ; Arthur, lives at Green Camp ; and Arliss F., the subject of this sketch. Arliss F. Porter krew up at Green Camp and was educated in the public schools, being a graduate of Green Camp High School in 1899. He was also graduated from Ohio Business College in 1902, and began his business career with the Bissman Company, wholesale grocers. From 1905 until 1908 he was office manager of the Hercules Clothing Company, manufacturers of clothing for the Ohio State Reformatory at Mansfield, and in 1908 he went with the Cotter Transfer & Storage Company as a clerk. He resigned from that company in 1923 as district manager of all the company's plants. Mr. Porter then purchased the Mansfield Book Bindery Company, which he successfully operated until 1929. Mr. Porter was elected councilman-at-large in 1923, re-elected in 1925, and became president of the council in November, 1927, taking office on Jan. 1, 1928. Mayor Ports resigned in 1929 and as president of the council Mr. Porter became mayor of Mansfield, in which capacity he served until 1930. He is a Republican in politics, and was elected chairman of the Republican executive committee in 1928. On Jan. 1, 1930, he became clerk of the Richland County Election Board. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 655 On June 5, 1909, Mr. Porter married Miss Bertha Becker, the daughter of Charles J. and Margaret Becker, both deceased. Mr. Becker was born at Clinton, Ohio, and his wife was a native of Loudonville, Ashland County. Mr. and Mrs. Porter have no children. Mr. Porter is prominent in Masonic circles throughout North Central Ohio, being secretary of the Masonic Temple Company, of Mansfield. He is affiliated with Mansfield Lodge, No. 35, F. & A. M. Past Master in 1913, and present secretary ; Mansfield Chapter, No. 28, R. A. M.; treasurer for a number of years; Mansfield Council, No. 94, R. & S. M. treasurer; Mansfield Commandery, No. 21, K. T. recorder; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Mystic Club, secretary ; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society, secretary and treasurer; Masonic Benevolent Association, Secretary; and Chamber of Commerce. He is a former director of the Kiwanis Club. Mr. and Mrs. Porter hold membership in the Central Methodist Church. Tracy C. Styert. As the proprietor of a business which was established by his father in Mansfield many years ago, Tracy C. Styert is France, and one of the earliest settlers of Weller Township, Richland County. He was born in this city, April 21, 1884, the son of Rollo O. and Sadie B. (Dickson) Styert. Rollo O. Styert was the son of Bartholomew Styert, a native of France, and one of the earlest settlers of Weller Township, Richland County, where he was the owner of the old water grist mill. He is buried in Franklin Cemetery, Weller Township. Rollo O. Styert was born in Weller Township and spent his early boyhood on his father's farm. At an early age he came to Mansfield, where he became interested in the mercantile business, and in 1892 he established the Styert Market at 153 Newman Street. The business was removed to its present location, 113 Newman Street, in 1896, and Mr. Styert continued as its successful proprietor until his death in 1901. His wife died in 1924. Both are buried in Franklin Cemetery, Weller Township. She was the daughter of J. J. Dickson, a pioneer of Richland County, who served as sheriff for one term. He was a prosperous farmer and stockman. To Mr. and Mrs. Styert were born three children: Tracy C., the subject of this sketch; Jennie C., lives at Mansfield ; and Bryan D., lives at Mansfield, is a World War veteran, having served in France. Tracy C. Styert attended the public schools of Mansfield. As a young man he became interested in his father's meat business, of which he became sole owner, at the latter's death in 1901. 656 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Mr. Styert was married in 1917 to Miss Elizabeth Green. Politically, Mr. Styert is a Democrat. He was elected councilmanat-large in November, 1917, re-elected in November, 1919, and in 1924 was appointed to the same office to fill the unexpired term of the late Charles Burns. He was again appointed to the office to fill a vacancy in January, 1929, and in November of that year was elected to office. Mr. Styert is affiliated with the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56, and Independent Order of Forresters. Delno F. Shafer. In professional and business circles, as well as in civic and social affairs, one of the best known and most respected citizens of Mansfield is Delno F. Shafer, who is manager of the Mansfield offices of the Ohio State Life Insurance Company, with offices in the Walpark Building. He was born near Belleville, Richland County, March 7, 1861, the son of John F. and Theresa (Weaver) Shafer. John F. Shafer was born in Bedford County, Pa., and when but six months old was brought by his parents, Frederick and Eve Shafer, to Richland County. In 1826 the family settled on the Clearfork branch of the Mohican River, three miles west of the village of Belleville. John F. Shafer became a prosperous farmer, and was always recognized as a leader in all movements for the betterment of his community. He was a lifelong Lutheran, a patron of education, and a progressive citizen. Mr. Shafer died at the age of 64 years, Mrs. Shafer surviving to the age of 82. They were buried in the Belleville Cemetery. Delno F. Shafer grew up on his father's farm and received his early educational training in the local district school and Belleville High School. He served as principal of the Lucas, Ohio, public schools, and subsequently entered Heidelberg University, from which he was graduated in 1888. In that year he was appointed superintendent of the public schools of Belleville, but resigned in 1890 to accept a principalship of the Mansfield public schools. He continued his work in Mansfield as an educator for a period of 26 years, a total of 30 years in public school work. Of that time 22 years were spent as principal of the Hedges School, one of the largest schools in the city of Mansfield. Mr. Shafer resigned from the teaching profession in 1916, and has since devoted his entire time and interests to the insurance business as manager of the local branch of the Ohio State Life Insurance Company. He has been connected with this company since 1907, and has built up one of the most substantial and important agencies of the company in the State. He is the oldest field representative of the company in years of service and enjoys the full confidence of official man- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 657 agement as well as that of the entire agency force of the company, by whom he is affectionately known as "Dad" Shafer. During his long period of service as an educator in Mansfield, Mr. Shafer was active in all educational organizations. His influence was constantly exerted toward the advancement of the cause of public school education. He believed in thoroughness of primary education rather than in comprehensive elective systems, which tended to a broad field of information at the expense of the development of mental power. In 1917 Mr. Shafer was elected president of the Mansfield City Council and was twice successively reelected to this office by largely increased majorities, which fact evidences the character of his service in this capacity. Early in 1924 Mayor Carl H. Stander appointed Mr. Shafer member of the Board of Trustees of the Memorial Library of Mansfield, of which board he served as president during the entire four years of his terms. In 1927 he was elected a member of the City Board of Education, of which he is at the time of this writing vice president. During the time of service on these boards, he was directly responsible for the reorganization of the Public Library Service and the Public School Library service so as to merge both services under one management and into a broader and more effective service. Mr. Shafer was married in 1889 to Miss Alice Virginia McCulley, the daughter of John and Emily McCulley, of Lucas, Ohio. To them were born two sons : Paul McCulley, a graduate of Ohio State University, now a mechanical engineer ; and Dr. Charles Lee, a graduate of the College of Medicine, Western Reserve University, both respected citizens of Mansfield. Mr. Shafer is a Democrat, one of the founders and a charter member of the Optimist Club, and belongs to the Chamber of Commerce. He has always been an effective force in all constructive efforts for community betterment and is among Mansfield's most respected citizens. Mr. Shafer is descended from a line of ancestry which has been consistently Lutheran from the time of the Reformation in Germany. Having positive convictions as to his religious duties and obligations, it was but natural that he became a leader in his own church, the First Lutheran Church of Mansfield. In 1921 he was chosen as one of the laymen to represent the Ohio Lutherans at the first general synod of the United Lutheran Church of America, held in Washington, D. C. He recognizes as of inestimable value the advantages that have been his by reason of the training of Christian parents. Mr. Shafer also insists that whatever there is worthy of success in his life has been due in a large degree to the inspiration, helpfulness and faithful companionship of his wife, Alice. 658 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Frank H. Marquis. One of the most prominent figures in financial circles in North Central Ohio is Frank H. Marquis, who is secretary and trust officer of the Mansfield Savings Bank & Trust Company. He has been identified with this institution for a period of 43 years, having advanced from the office of messenger boy to his present responsible position. Mr. Marquis was born in Mansfield, June 5, 1868, the son of Joseph S. and Mary S. (Stocking) Marquis. Joseph S. Marquis was born near Greenville, Mercer County, Pa. in 1834. He served throughout the Civil War with a Pennsylvania Company and held the commission of captain. Mr. Marquis was a piano tuner by trade, and in his work traveled throughout Ohio. He had been a resident of Mansfield from 1866 until his death, Dec. 23, 1927. Mr. Marquis was a Republican, an Elder of the Presbyterian Church, and belonged to Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M. No. 35, and Grand Army of the Republic. His widow was born at Painesville, Ohio, and now resides at Mansfield. To Mr. and Mrs. Marquis were born two sons : Frederick S., mention of whom is made below; and Frank H., the subject of this sketch. Hon. Frederick S. Marquis was born at Mansfield, Sept. 29, 1873. He served throughout the Spanish-American War and was a major in the Ohio National Guard. He studied law at Ohio State University and was a prominent attorney of Mansfield. At the time of his death in 1916 he was serving as mayor. Frank H. Marquis attended the public schools of Mansfield and is a graduate of Mansfield High School. In 1887 he entered the employ of the Mansfield Savings Bank & Trust Company. Before his appointment as secretary and trust officer of the company in 1927, Mr. Marquis was serving as cashier. In 1892 Mr. Marquis was united in marriage with Miss Belle Adrian, the daughter of William and Nancy (Howard) Adrian, natives of Richland County, both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Marquis had the following children : 1. Arline, married H. S. Stole, lives in New York City, and they have two children, Robert and Alice. 2. William P., a graduate of Western Reserve University, served throughout the World War as a second lieutenant. He is associated with the Walmark Belt Company, Mansfield. He married Miss Marjory Yingling, and they have one daughter, Joan. 3. Joseph Howard, who died in 1926. 4. Mary Belle, a graduate of Mansfield High School attends Lake Erie College, Painesville. Mr. Marquis is a Republican and has served as a member of the school board for eight years. He belongs to the Presbyterian Church and has the following lodge affiliations : Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M. No. 35, past master; Honorary member of Frank H. Marquis Lodge, No. 690, named in his honor; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M. No. 28, past high HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 659 priest; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M. No. 94, past master, which was organized by him in 1905 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T. No. 21, past commander; Past grand master, State of Ohio, Blue Lodge in 1916 ; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Al Koran Temple ; St. Jerome Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, Columbus ; Royal Order of Scotland; Baku Grotto, M. O. V. P. E. R.; Honorary member of Euclid Lodge, No. 599, Cleveland; and Crowned in 1910 a 33rd degree Mason at Detroit, Mich. in the Northern Masonic jurisdiction. Mr. Marquis served as first president and is an honorary member of the Kiwanis Club, and he is a director of the West Brook Country Club. Charles Ritter, who is president of the Charles Ritter Company, is a prominent and successful business man of Mansfield. He was born in this city, Oct. 10, 1857, and is a son of William and Catherine (Matthias) Ritter. William Ritter was born in Brakerl, Westphalia, Germany. He came to the United States in early manhood and worked at the tanner's trade in Canton, Ohio, later removing to Mansfield. Here he engaged in the tanning business with his brother, Joseph Ritter. The tannery, which was located at the foot of South Main Street on Corporation Alley, was later sold to Mr. Stayman, and William Ritter retired from active business. He was married in Mansfield to Catherine Matthias, who had come from Hessedarmstadt, Germany, with her parents when a child. They were pioneer settlers in Crawford County. Mr. Ritter was a Democrat. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ritter: Joseph, deceased; Mary, married John Harris, lives in Mansfield; Josephine, married Frank Schreidt, both deceased ; and Charles, the subject of this sketch. Charles Ritter was reared in Mansfield and attended the public schools. He began active business life as a clerk in the store of S. E. Bird. Later he organized the Ritter & Bird Store, dealers in stationery, books, wall paper, shades, and mouldings. After five years Mr. Ritter bought the interest of Mr. Bird in the company and the business was incorporated as The Charles Ritter Company. The first store was located, in 1885 on East Third Street, and in 1887 moved to the Von Hof Hotel Block and in 1899 moved to the present location at 67 North Main Street. The stock consists of a complete line of office equipment and supplies, books, stationery and other supplies. In 1884 Mr. Ritter was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Barbour, the daughter of J. S. and Melissa (Armentrot) Barbour, natives of Richland County, and now deceased. Both are buried in Mansfield 660 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Ritter two children were born: Louise, deceased ; and Margaret, the wife of Avery L. Sterner, died in 1920. Mr. Ritter is a director of the Mansfield Savings & Trust Company; director of the Mechanics Building & Loan Company ; president of the Mansfield Mutual Fire Insurance Company, which company he has been connected with for 20 years: a director of the Lexington State Bank ; director of the Richland Hotel Company ; member of the Chamber of Commerce ; Rotary Club ; and a charter member of the West Brook Country Club. Mr. Ritter is also a charter and a life member of the B. P. 0. Elks, No. 56, Past Exalted Ruler. In politics he is a Democrat, and has held the office of township treasurer for two terms. Arthur W. Metz, who is proprietor of the Metz Shoe Repairing Company, 17 1/2 North Main Street, is a substantial citizen of Mansfield. He was born at St. Marys, Ohio, Jan. 19, 1881, the son of Julius A. and Louise (Osterroth) Metz. Julius A. Metz was born at Cincinnati, Ohio. Throughout his life he was interested in the dyeing industry, and in 1880 established a business at St. Marys, Ohio. The following year, however, he sold it and returned to Cincinnati, where he conducted a business until his death in 1920. His wife died in 1915. Both are buried at Cincinnati. Their only child was Arthur W., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Metz was a Republican, a member of the Lutheran Church. It was Julius A. Metz and his brother, Dr. C. L. Metz, with Professor Putnam, who excavated the famous "Serpent Mound" in southern Ohio. Arthur W. Metz was but six months old when his parents left St. Marys, Ohio, and returned to Cincinnati, where he received his education in the public schools. He learned the shoe business with Wolfe Brothers in Columbus, Ohio, when a young man, and later went to Cincinnati as foreman of the Williams Shoe Company. He subsequently went to Louisville, Ky., as superintendent of the Vogel Bros. Shoe Company, and in 1920 he came to Mansfield, where he established the Metz Shoe Repairing Company. He has been most successful in this enterprise and has a well patronized establishment. In 1914 Mr. Metz was united in marriage with Miss Ethel Cloude, the daughter of John and Matilda Cloude, natives of Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Cloude is deceased, and his widow now lives at Columbus. For many years he was employed by the Hocking Valley Railway Company. Politically, Mr. Metz is a Republican. He belongs to Frank H. Marquis Lodge, No. 690, F. & A. M. charter member ; Mansfield Chapter No. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 661 28, R. A. M.; Mansfield Council No. 94, R. & S. M. M. and Baku Grotto, M. O. V. P. E. R. George James Searle, Jr., M. D., is engaged in the general practice of his profession at Mansfield, and is recognized as one of the leading young physicians of Richland County. He was born at Marlboro, Mass., April 21, 1898, the son of Dr. George James and Dora (Fenner) Searle. Dr. George James Searle, Sr. was born in London, England, in 1864. He was educated in Boston, Mass., and in 1888 received the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the University of Boston. He spent three years in practice at Marlboro, Mass., and since 1901 has engaged in successful practice at Plymouth, Richland County. He is a member of the Richland County, Ohio State and American Medical Associations. Politically he is a Republican and has served as mayor of Plymouth for two terms. He is a member of the Episcopal Church and belongs to Plymouth Lodge, F. and A. M. Dora Fenner Searle was born in Plymouth Township, Richland County, and died Feb. 22, 1900. She is buried in Plymouth Cemetery. To Doctor and Mrs. Searle were born three sons : Frederick Fenner, a graduate of Ohio State University, was killed in action in France during the World War, Oct. 12, 1918, while serving as a first lieutenant ; George James, Jr., the subject of this sketch ; and James, deceased. Doctor Searle later married Miss Bertha Fenner. They have one daughter, Eleanor, who lives in New York City. She is a member of the Metropolitan Grand Opera Company and New York Philharmonic Society. George James Searle was graduated from the public schools of Plymouth in 1915 and in 1920 received the degree of Bachelor of Science at Ohio State University. He was graduated from the College of Medicine, Ohio State University in 1922, and during 1922 served as an interne at Mercy Hospital, Columbus. Doctor Searle also was connected with the Medical School of Ohio State University as an instructor of physiology and pharmacology during 1919-20, and during 1921-22 was an instructor in pathology. He has taken graduate work at Rush Medical College, Chicago. From 1925 until 1929 he was established in practice at Plymouth and in the latter year located in Mansfield. He is a member of the surgical staffs of Mansfield General Hospital and Shelby Memorial Hospital. Doctor Searle is a member of the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, American Medical Association, and a Junior Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. On Nov. 19, 1930, Doctor Searle married Miss Mary Kathrine Brown of Mansfield, the daughter of James E. and Kathrine H. Brown. The former is deceased and his widow resides in Mansfield. 662 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Doctor Searle is affiliated with Mansfield Lodge, F. and A. M. No. 35; York Chapter, R. A. M. No. 200 ; York Council R. & S. M. M. No. 115; Scioto Consistory 32nd degree; Aladdin Temple ; Alpha Mu Pi Omega fraternity ; Optimist Club ; Westbrook Country Club ; and Chamber of Commerce. Ernest R. Hartman, president of the Hartman-Spreng Company at Mansfield, is one of the leading business men of the city. He was born at Mansfield, Aug. 30, 1879, a son of D. and Barbara (Bowers) Hartman. The father of Mr. Hartman was born in Germany where he learned the tailor's trade. He came to the United States when he was 20 years of age, and in 1861 located in Mansfield, where he was one of the highly respected men of the community. He was a Republican and a member of the Lutheran Church. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried in Mansfield Cemetery. Barbara (Bowers) Hartman was born in Mansfield. To Mr. and Mrs. Hartman six children were born: Albert, deceased; Cora, married J. E. Upson, lives at Mansfield ; Edna, married Edward McCully, lives at Toledo, Ohio; R. W., an attorney, Mansfield; Frank 0., associated with the Hartman Electric Manufacturing Company; and Ernest R., the subject of this sketch. The local grade and high school gave Ernest R. Hartman his educational training, and when he had completed his studies in them, he began his business life as a clerk in the hardware store of W. J. Foltz. Later he was associated as a traveling salesman for the Wagner Hardware Company of Mansfield, later traveling out of Toledo, Ohio. In 1907, in partnership with W. J. Spreng the Hartman-Spreng Company was organized, and in 1910 was incorporated, and Mr. Hartman was made president. The company has enjoyed a steady and consistent growth since its inception. The company are jobbers of gas and electric supplies and hardware specialties. Ernest R. Hartman married in June, 1916, Miss Jeannette C. Carpenter, daughter of Reid Carpenter, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. Mr. and Mrs. Hartman have two children, Barbara and Helen. Mr. Hartman's fraternal affiliations are those of the Free and Accepted Masons, Venus Lodge, No. 152; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M. No. 28; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M. No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T. No. 21; Mansfield A. A. Scottish Rite Society ; Dayton Consistory, A. A. S. R. 32nd degree; Al Koran Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S.; and B. P. 0. Elks, No. 56. He is a director of the Citizens National Bank & Trust Company ; a director of the Franklin Furnace Company; a member of HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 663 the Chamber of Commerce; and West Brook Country Club. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Hartman are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mansfield. Paul A. Stoodt, M. D. is a well known and capable young physician of Mansfield. He was born in this city, Oct. 29, 1898, the son of Albert L. and Ida E. (Roberts) Stoodt. Albert L. Stoodt was born in Mansfield, and is the son of William Stoodt, a native of Germany who came to the United States in the early days and settled in Mansfield. During his life time he was engaged in the meat market business at Mansfield. Albert L. Stoodt attended the public schools and then entered the employ of his father where he learned the meat business. After his father's death he continued the business for many years. He is now engaged in the real estate business. His wife, who was born in Chicago, Ill., died in March, 1929, and is buried at Mansfield. Mr. Stoodt is a Democrat and a member of the Lutheran Church. His fraternal affiliations are those of the Free & Accepted Masons, Mansfield Lodge, No. 35 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M. No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M. No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T. No. 21; Dayton Consistory, A. A. S. R. 32nd degree ; and Al Koran Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. Mr. and Mrs. Stoodt were the parents of five children: Clarabel, married Martin Strickler; Paul A., the subject of this sketch ; Allen, Mansfield ; Jack, Mansfield ; and Robert, a student at Western Reserve University, Cleveland. Paul A. Stoodt received his early education in the public and high schools of Mansfield. In the fall of 1917 he entered Adelbert College, Western Reserve University, Cleveland. He was a member of the Student Army Training Corps. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1922, and in 1925 was graduated from the Medical School of Western Reserve University. During 1925-26 he served as an interne at Charity Hospital, Cleveland, and during 1927-28 was assistant surgeon to Dr. Carl A. Hamann. During the spring of 1928 Dr. Stoodt took a trip to Honolulu, and upon his return located in Cleveland. In November, 1929, he established his office at Mansfield. At the time of his graduation Doctor Stoodt was commissioned a first lieutenant in the Medical Reserve Corps. At Western Reserve University Doctor Stoodt was a member of the varsity football and basketball teams. He is identified with the Richland County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society, and the American Medical Association. He is a 664 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO member of the Phi Gamma Delta, and of Nu Sigma Nu fraternities. He is a Democrat and a member of the West Brook Country Club. In August, 1929, Doctor Stoodt was united in marriage with Miss Ottelia Bindewald, a daughter of Dr. Otto and Clarine (Brown) Bindewald. He was born in Germany and is now deceased. His widow, a native of Virginia, now lives at Los Angeles, Calif. Doctor and Mrs. Stoodt are members of the Presbyterian Church. Joe C. Hartline is one of the substantial citizens and progressive business men of Mansfield, where he is in charge of the local branch of the City Loan & Savings Company. He was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, where his great-grandfather, Peter Hartline, settled during the early days. His son, Joseph, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, carried forward effectively the farm enterprise which had been instituted by his father. Frank Hartline, father of the subject of this sketch, has long been a successful breeder and exhibitor of fine red Polled cattle, and is a charter member of the International Live Stock Show, at Chicago. In 1922 he served as mayor of Strasburg, Tuscarawas County, where he resides. Joe C. Hartline was reared and educated in Tuscarawas County, and at the age of 21 years found employment in connection with coal mining operations. For a time thereafter he engaged in the mercantile business at Strasburg, and later became a successful automobile dealer at Lima, Ohio, where he was especially prominent in advocating and promoting the good roads movement. He has been in charge of the Mansfield branch of the City Loan & Savings Company since its establishment. The City Loan & Savings Company is one of the important corporations of Ohio, which exercises most benignant functions in connection with civic and financial affairs. It maintains offices and has a substantial business in about 35 different cities in Ohio, with headquarters at Lima. The Mansfield branch has proved a distinct value to the community. The corporation bases its operations upon ample capital and effective executive control, and its reputation constitutes its best business asset. The Mansfield offices are located at 46 Park Avenue West. Mr. Hartline married (first) Miss Aurelia Blaser, of Winesburg, Ohio, and to them were born two daughters, Hazel Marguerite, and Aurelia Loretto. Several years after the death of Mrs. Hartline, Mr. Hartline married Miss Flora Emma Styer, of Marietta, Ohio. They have two daughters, Bernice Naomi, and Evelyn Gertrude. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 665 Mr. Hartline is a Republican and takes an active interest in local politics. He belongs to the Masonic Lodge, up to the 32d degree, Amima Club, Chamber of Commerce, B. P. O. Elks and U. C. T. He is president of the Sherman Highway Association, being one of its founders. He is also an executive committeeman of the Harding Highways, of which he is a charter member. Mr. Hartline is a fancier of thoroughbred saddle horses and maintains a stable of fine bred horses. He owns several farms in Richland and Crawford counties. S. Glen Vinson. One of the leading figures in the business life of Mansfield is S. Glen Vinson, who is president of the Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Compony. He was born in Hertford County, North Carolina, July 26, 1876, the son of James H. and Emily A. (Drake) Vinson. James H. Vinson was born in Hertford County, N. C., in 1846, and his wife was a native of Southampton County, Va., born in 1841. He removed to Nansemond County, Va. in 1878, where he owned a plantation and conducted a general mercantile establishment until 1891. He then went to Evanston, Florida, where he became an extensive orange grower. He suffered financial reverses, however, in 1895, when his groves were destroyed by frost and two years later Mr. Vinson removed to Newbern, N. C., where he lived until his death in 1901. His wife died in 1917. Both are buried at Newbern, N. C. Mr. Vinson was a Democrat and held membership in the Baptist Church. There were seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Vinson, as follows : Garrett L., lives at Raleigh, N. C.; J. T., died in 1901, buried at Rome, Ga. ; S. Glen, the subject of this sketch ; Robert L., deceased ; Paul L., lives at Sebring, Fla. ; Lillie, deceased ; J. P., lives at St. Paul Minn. S. Glen Vinson was reared and educated in Nansemond County, Va., and also attended the public schools of Evanston, Florida. For a time he was a student at Goldsmith & Sullivan College, Atlanta, Ga., and in 1895 began his business career with H. B. Campbell, electrical contractor, Atlanta, Ga. The following year he removed to Savannah, Ga., and became assistant to the secretary and manager of the Electric Supply & Construction Company. Mr. Vinson has been a resident of Mansfield since January, 1898, having come to this city in that year as sales-manager for the Card Electric Company. He studied electrical engineering through the International Correspondence Schools, and in June, 1913, was made a full member of the American Institute of Electrical engineers. 666 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO He was active in the organization of the Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Company in May, 1903, and at that time became secretary and general manager. He was made vice president and general manager in 1920 and became president of the company six years later. Mr. Vinson is also a director of the Buckeye Tempered Copper & Brass Company. In 1898 Mr. Vinson was united in marriage with Miss A. Mabelle Wilson, the daughter of George D. and Emma R. (Branyan) Wilson, natives of Duncannon, Pa. Mr. Wilson died in 1924 and his widow resides at Axis, Ala. To Mr. and Mrs. Vinson were born two children: A. Lillian, a graduate of the University of Michigan, married Stuart M. Weaver, lives at Monroe, Mich., and they have a daughter, Ann; Stanleigh Branyan, attends Ohio State University, member of the class of 1932. Mr. Vinson is a Republican and a member of the Park Avenue Baptist Church, being chairman of the building committee and finance committee. He is affiliated with Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M. No. 35 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M. No. 28; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M. No. 94; Mansfield Commandery, K. T. No. 21; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society; Kiwanis Club ; Chamber of Commerce, the Westbrook Country Club and was made president of the Manufacturing Club of Mansfield for 1931. The Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Company, of Mansfield, was organized in May, 1903, with C. H. Voegele as president and treasurer; S. Glen Vinson, secretary and general manager ; and William Dow, vice president. The remaining directors were: John Krause, M. L. Branyan, John F. Stine, and T. R. Barnes. The company was organized with a very moderate capital, $50,000 authorized, but with $16,500 issued. The company began the manufacture of direct current motors with elevator motors and electro-plating generators as specialties. Most of these motors built in 1903 are still in operation. When the company was first organized in 1903 it was located in frame buildings, previously owned by the Mills-Ellsworth Company, at the corner of East Fifth and Elm streets. These buildings soon became inadequate and a brick building was erected on Fifth Street in 1907. The north wing or extension was added in 1914. A second brick building to house the punch press shop was built to the north along the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1917. In the fall of 1919 it was decided that in going into the manufacture of larger apparatus, it would be necessary for the company to build a new plant, suitable for handling this larger equipment. A tract of 26 acres was purchased in the southeast section of the city on Oak street, First Street, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 667 and Bowers Avenue. The main building of the new plant was erected in 1920 and the new equipment installed and the plant put in operation the same year. The office, however, was not transferred from the old plant to the new until the second building was erected at the new location in 1923, when the office force was transferred. Portions of the old plant are still being used for storage purposes. The early history of the Ideal Electric Manufacturing Company is identified with the old Card Electric Company of Mansfield. George F. Card, who was chief engineer and managing director of the Card Electric Company, was originally from Cincinnati, and did considerable research work in the electrical field in the early nineties. In fact, it was Mr. Card who originated the old Triumph Electric Company of Cincinnati, and who designed their first direct current motors. He later organized the Cincinnati Electric Motor & Dynamo Company. While Mr. Card was located in Cincinnati, he conceived the idea of building a direct current street railway motor with a split frame, so that after mounting the motors on the trucks of street cars the car could be run over a pit, the lower half of the motor frame dropped on a hinge arrangement, and the armature and fields easily removed for repair, without the necessity of entirely removing the motor from the car. Mr. Card came to Mansfield in 1894 and interested local capital in the organization of the Card Electric Company to manufacture these street car motors. A few motors were built and installed on cars in the city of Mansfield, which therefore became one of the first towns in which electric street cars were operated. Mr. Card had filed application for patent on this particular construction of street railway motors, but George Westinghouse set up an interference and the patent was never issued to Mr. Card for this feature, but went to the Westinghouse Company instead. After the loss of this patent Mr. Card was forced to change his plans of manufacture for the company. He decided to manufacture direct current motors and generators ; electro-plating apparatus, etc. Such a line of apparatus was then developed and the Card Electric Company's new plant was built near the Ohio State Reformatory about 1895. The company continued its work in the development of the new direct current lines adding elevator motors as a specialty. In January, 1898, S. Glen Vinson came to Mansfield and accepted the position of sales manager of the Card Electric Company. In July of that year the company went into the hands of a receiver, with liabilities of approximately $200,000. In October, Mr. Card was unable to cooperate properly with the receiver and resigned. With his son, John, he left Mansfield and moved to Three Rivers, Mich. When the Cards left Mansfield in 1898, the entire responsibility of the management of the Card 668 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Electric Company was assigned to Mr. Vinson. By 1901 the old indebtedness of the Card Electric Company had been liquidated and the business reorganized as the Phoenix Electric Manufacturing Company under a West Virginia charter. Mr. Vinson continued with the Phoenix Electric Manufacturing Company until May, 1903, when he withdrew from the organization and organized The Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Company, with the help and assistance of C. H. Voegele, who became president and treasurer of the company. Mr. Voegele died in August, 1926. Charles Scheska, of the brass finishing department, Charles Massa, of the assembling department, and Dick Zerbe, of the winding department, are the oldest employes of the Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Company, having been similarly employed by the Card Electric Company when Mr. Vinson came to Mansfield in 1898. In 1905 the company engaged Justin Lebovici, a young Roumanian engineer, to design a line of induction motors, and it was he who developed the company's first line of squirrel cage and slip-ring alternating current motors. In fact he developed the first high torque squirrel cage motors used for elevator service, so that the company is responsible for the development of the first high torque squirrel cage single speed motor for elevator work. These motors were put on the market in the fall of 1906. In 1909 Martin Berthold was engaged as chief engineer and remained with the company until August, 1912, when Harry Bewlay succeeded him. He redesigned the entire line and put it on a more commercial basis. He continued with the company until March 1, 1920, when Theodore Schou, the present chief engineer, was engaged principally with the idea of developing a line of synchronous motors. 0. J. Fink is vice president and works manager. F. L. Hanson is vice president and sales manager. 0. H. McDaniel is secretary and treasurer, having been with the company for 15 years, working up from cost clerk to his present position of responsibility. Albert William Strater, who is president of the Strater Hardware Company, 12-14 East Third Street, Mansfield, is a member of one of the oldest and best known families of Richland County, and a highly successful business man of Mansfield. He was born on a farm in Washington Township, Richland County, May 3, 1879, the son of Jacob and Annetta (Clappert) Strater. Jacob Strater was born in Richland County in 1846, and his wife was born in Germany in 1847. She was a small child when she was brought to this country by her parents, Christian and Henrietta Clappert, both HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 669 of whom are deceased and buried in Washington Township, Richland County. Jacob Strater was a farmer, but for a time engaged in business in Mansfield, being associated with James Dickson and later with Askin & Doolittle. Subsequently, he returned to general farming on his well improved farm in Washington Township. He died there in 1912 and his wife died in 1917. They are buried in Washington Township. Mr. Strater was a Democrat and served as township trustee and as a member of the board of education. He and his wife held membership in the German Lutheran Church. They were the parents of the following children: Edward, farmer, lives in Troy Township, Richland County ; John, who is vice president of the Strater Hardware Company, Mansfield; Lucetta, deceased ; Herman, who is president of the Cannon Garment Cleaning Company, Toledo, Ohio ; Anna, married Martin Remy, lives at Mansfield ; Albert William, the subject of this sketch; and Clara, married John Fulton, farmer, lives in Washington Township, Richland County. Albert William Strater received his education in the public schools of Washington Township and in 1897 was graduated from Lucas High School. He remained on his father's farm until 1900 and in that year came to Mansfield, where he spent six months in the employ of the Ohio Suspender Company. He then became clerk and delivery boy for the Colwell Hardware Company, in which later he purchased an interest. Mr. Strater became vice president of the firm in 1909 and the following year, in partnership with Edward Goetz, purchased the business and became president of the company. Later, in 1919, Mr. Strater and his brother, John Strater, and C. C. Banks, purchased the interests of Mr. Goetz, the business thereafter being known as the Strater Hardware Company. The officers are: Albert W. Strater, president; John Strater, vice president ; and C. C. Banks, secretary. The company has occupied its new quarters on East Third Street since April, 1929. Its original location for 28 years was at 76 North Main Street. In 1906 Mr. Strater was united in marriage with Miss Mabel Davey, who died in 1913. To this union two daughters were born: Martha and Mary, both students at Mansfield High School. Mr. Strater was married the second time in 1918 to Mrs. Florence (Chapman) Hughes, of Mansfield. Politically, Mr. Strater is a Democrat. He holds membership in St. John's Evangelical Church, and has the following lodge and club affiliations: Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M. No. 35; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M. No. 28; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M. No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T. No. 21; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree; Baku Grotto, M. O. V. P. E. R.; Al Koran Temple ; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society ; B. P. O. Elks, 670 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO No. 56; Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; Kiwanis Club; and West Brook Country Club. Mr. Strater has been a member of the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce for the past 20 years. He has served two terms on the board of directors, having completed a term of two years in 1930. Mr. Strater is also treasurer and a director of the First Savings & Loan Company, Mansfield. Fred L. Slone. One of the representative and highly successful business men of Mansfield is Fred L. Slone, who is vice president, secretary-treasurer and general manager of the Home Materials Company. He was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, Nov. 26, 1894, the son of Henry Minor and Elizabeth (Doll) Slone. Henry Minor Slone was born at Springfield, Ill., in 1870. Throughout his life he was a road contractor and spent a number of years in railroad construction work. He was serving as a member of the Norwood (Ohio) police force at the time of his death in 1914. He is buried at Cincinnati. Mr. Slone was a Republican, a member of St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church, and Eagles Lodge. His widow was born at Morris, Ind., and now lives at Mansfield and Dayton, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Slone were born two sons : Fred L., the subject of this sketch ; and Louis J., a graduate of St. Joseph's College, lives at Dayton, Ohio, where he is engaged in the lumber business. He married Miss Clara Theobald, and they have three children : Patricia, John, and Mary. Fred L. Slone was four years old when his parents removed to Norwood, Ohio, from Cincinnati. He received his education in the parochial schools of Norwood and is a graduate of Cathedral High School, Cincinnati, and St. Joseph's College, and attended the Cincinnati Art Academy. Mr. Slone began his business career with the U. S. Printing Company as an artist's apprentice. In 1912 he became associated with the First National Bank of Norwood in a clerical capacity, and the following year went with the Evanston Bank at Evanston, Ohio. In 1914 he entered the employ of the Norwood Sash & Door Company, and during 1917 and 1918 was associated with the Thompson-Starrett Company, at Nitro, W. Va. In 1919 he came to Mansfield as shipping clerk for the Constance Lumber Company and three years later was made secretary and treasurer of the firm. On Jan. 14, 1927, he became vice president, secretary-treasurer and general manager. In 1929 the firm was reorganized as the Home Materials Company. It is located at 36 Orange Street. In 1916 Mr. Slone was united in marriage with Miss Catherine B. Cook, the daughter of John and Barbara (Goot) Cook. The former is HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 671 deceased and the latter lives at Cincinnati. Mr. and Mrs. Slone are the parents of four children: Eileen, Hubert, Juanita, and Marie Antoinette. Mr. Slone and his family hold membership in St. Peter's Catholic Church, and he belongs to the Knights of Columbus, Mansfield Council, No. 687, Past Grand Knight during 1926-27, and Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56. Mr. Slone has served as vice president of the Chamber of Commerce and president of the Retail Merchants Association of Mansfield. Joseph W. Pavelsek, who is manager of the Mansfield Diagnostic and X-ray Laboratory, is a veteran of the World War, and a prominent citizen of Richland County. He was born in Chicago, Ill., June 10, 1894, the son of Joseph and Josephine (Cygan) Pavelsek. Joseph Pavelsek was born in Czecho-Slovakia and his wife is a native of Bohemia. They are residents of Chicago, where Mr. Pavelsek is interested in the real estate business. To Mr. and Mrs. Pavelsek were born eight children, as follows : Laddie ; Alexander ; Marie, married Frank Bush ; Angeline, married Roy Johnson ; Sophia ; Victoria ; John, deceased; and Joseph W., the subject of this sketch. All are residents of Chicago. Joseph W. Pavelsek obtained his early education in the public schools of Chicago and is a graduate of Oak Park High School. He spent three years at Jenner Medical College, and during that time also studied X-ray and clinical laboratory work at the Cook County Hospital. He served in France throughout the World War as a member of the 67th Heavy Artillery, and was discharged in 1919. Mr. Pavelsek then went to New Castle, Ind. to take charge of laboratory work in the New Castle Clinic. Later in that year he went to Ottawa, Ill., where he was identified with the Illinois Valley Diagnostic Hospital. In 1923 he established an X-ray and clinical laboratory in Chicago and the following year went to Rockford, Ill., in charge of the laboratory work at the Swedish-American Hospital and St. Anthony's Hospital. He also served there as chemist for the city health department. In 1925 Mr. Pavelsek came to Mansfield in charge of laboratory work at the Mansfield General Hospital. Since 1929 he has been connected with the Mansfield Diagnostic and X-ray Laboratory. During 1916-17 he was also assistant instructor in clinic pathology at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, University of Illinois. In 1917 Mr. Pavelsek was united in marriage with Miss Grace Eleanor Fossell, the daughter of William Rose Fossell, of Oak Park, Ill. They have four children: Joseph, Jeanette, Howard, and Theodore. 672 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Arthur E. Courtney is among the most progressive business men of Mansfield, where he is secretary and director of the Mechanics Building & Loan Company. He was born in Washington Township, Richland County, Sept. 24, 1871, the son of James M. and Alphretta (Mitchell) Courtney. James M. Courtney, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Troy Township, Richland County, Nov. 9, 1844, and his wife was a native of Washington Township, Richland County, born in 1849. Mr. Courtney followed general farming and stock raising until 1909, at which time he retired and moved to Mansfield. He lived at 242 Marion Avenue. Mr. Courtney was a Democrat and served for many years as a member of the Washington Township Board of Education and for 15 years was a member of the board of trustees, Richland County Children's Home. He held membership in the United Presbyterian Church, and was vice commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. He died Jan. 31, 1928, and is buried in Mansfield Cemetery. His widow still resides in this city. They were the parents of six children, as follows : Arthur E., the subject of this sketch ; Grace G., Catherine, and Flosse, all live at Mansfield ; James Lloyd, deceased; and Marjorie, married Fred L. Palm, lives at Cleveland, Ohio. The education of Arthur E. Courtney was received in the schools of Washington Township, and he attended Ohio Business College and Ohio Normal University. He then taught school for six years in Springfield, Troy and Madison townships. In 1902 he was appointed deputy county auditor of Richland County, and was elected to the office of county auditor in 1909. He was re-elected in 1911 and held office until October, 1913, at which time he became associated with the Mechanics Building & Loan Company as secretary and director. On Oct. 14, 1903, Mr. Courtney was united in marriage with Miss Grace Graham, the daughter of Henry and Mary D. (Dinsmore) Graham, the former a native of Ohio and the latter a native of Washington County, Pa. Both are deceased and are buried at Lexington, Ohio. Mr. Graham was a school teacher and farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Courtney were born three children: Mary, a graduate of Wooster University, now a teacher in the Mansfield junior high school ; James Graham, attends Wooster University ; and John Lloyd, attends Mansfield High School, class of 1931. Politically, Mr. Courtney is a Democrat. He is a trustee of the United Presbyterian Church, and is affiliated with Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society ; and Al Koran Temple. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 673 Mr. Courtney is a director of the Mansfield Savings Bank & Trust Company, Richland Trust Company, and secretary and trustee of the Mansfield Cemetery Association. He is a member of the executive committee of the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and in December, 1930, he was elected president. The Mechanics Building & Loan Company was organized in January, 1886, and began business on Jan. 26th of that year with the following officers: W. L. Lentz, president ; William Ackerman, vice president ; Charles Pyle, secretary ; Andrew Burnesan, treasurer; and Sam Marriot, attorney. The directors were : Joseph Martin, John Cahall, George Knofflock, T. T. Dill, and John Baxter. The rapid growth of the company's business is illustrated in the following figures : March 1, 1891, $66,038.95; March 1, 1894, $106,896.40 ; March 1, 1897, $189,425.60 ; March 1, 1900, $213,501.41 ; March 1, 1903, $203,481.05; March 1, 1906, $267,693.22 ; March 1, 1909, $301,331.75; March 1, 1912, $445,034.94 ; March 1, 1915, $669,334.94; March 1, 1918, $1,058,992.08 ; March 1, 1921, $1,734,685.06; March 1, 1924, $2,592,570.32 ; March 1, 1927, $3,666,992.98; and March 1, 1930, $5,227,401.85. The present officers of the Mechanics Building & Loan Company are: W. B. Martin, president ; R. W. Hartman, vice president ; Arthur E. Courtney, secretary ; William A. Bowers, assistant secretary ; and Flosse Courtney, assistant secretary. The directors are: E. D. Baxter, W. A. Bowers, A. E. Courtney, R. W. Hartman, W. B. Martin, Charles Ritter, and H. T. Siegenthaler. The company's new building is located at Park Avenue West and South Main Street. Howard J. Fleming, who is associated with the Lumberman's Mutual Insurance Company as city solicitor and manager of their downtown office in Mansfield, is one of the prominent young business men of Richland County. He was born in this city, Sept. 2, 1896, the son of Joseph and Laura (Hewitt) Fleming. Joseph Fleming was widely known throughout Richland County as a pioneer school teacher. He was born at Newville, Richland County, in 1836. For 27 years he taught school at Washington. He served throughout the Civil War as a member of Company E, 64th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and after the close of the war was discharged with the rank of sergeant. In 1890 Mr. Fleming retired and removed to Mansfield, where he died in 1916. He is buried at Washington, Richland County. Mr. Fleming was a Republican, a member of the Lutheran Church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. His widow, born at Shiloh, 674 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Ohio, resides at Mansfield. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Fleming: Myrtle, lives at Mansfield ; and Howard J., the subject of this sketch. Joseph Fleming was the son of John Fleming, who was born in Franklin County, Pa., in 1803. He was among the very first settlers of Richland County, having come here in 1824. He returned east in 1831 and married Marjorie A. Trindle and soon after again came to Richland County and settled on a farm near Newville, where he spent the remainder of his life. Howard J. Fleming attended the public schools of Mansfield and has spent his entire life in this city. He is a graduate of Mansfield High School. He began his career as a draftsman with the Aultman-Taylor Company, and from 1917 until 1919 was associated with the V. R. Browning Company. He then became a salesman and draftsman for the Fraser Granite Company and was identified with that firm from 1919 until 1928, at which time he accepted his present position with the Lumberman's Mutual Insurance Company as city solicitor and office manager. Mr. Fleming is a Republican, a member of the Lutheran Church, and belongs to Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 35, and Amima Club, of which he is vice president. He is also past counsellor of United Commercial Travelers, No. 13. Otto Bismark Hohendorf, Doctor of Chiropody, has an extensive practice in Mansfield and is recognized as one of the thoroughly capable professional men of Richland County. He was born at Piqua, Ohio, April 10, 1895, the son of Francis and Louise (Roser) Hohendorf. Francis Hohendorf was born in Muenster, Westphalia, Germany, and was 17 years of age when he came to this country with his mother. They went to Newport, Ky., where the father had preceded them two years before. Francis Hohendorf later removed to Piqua, Ohio, where he conducted a cafe and restaurant business for many years. He served throughout the Civil War and saw active service during the entire war period. Mr. Hohendorf died in 1906 and is buried at Piqua. His widow died in the flood of 1913 and is also buried at Piqua. She was born at Cincinnati, Ohio. Mr. Hohendorf was a Democrat, and a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. To Mr. and Mrs. Hohendorf the following children were born: Charlotte, married A. M. Fry, lives at Piqua ; Albert, World War veteran, having served in France, lives at Piqua ; Frederick, lives at Piqua ; Johanna, lives at Greenville, Ohio ; Louise, married J. Lendall Williams, lives at Greenville, Ohio ; William, lives at Cincinnati; Helmuth Von Moltke, lives at Milton, Vt. ; Otto Bismarck, the subject of this sketch ; and Emma, deceased. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 675 Otto Bismarck Hohendorf was reared and educated at Piqua, Ohio, and in 1912 was graduated from Piqua High School. He spent the next two years in the study of law at Ohio State University, and from 1916 until 1920 was a teacher at Bacolad, Occidental Negros Island, Philippine Islands. He then spent a year in newspaper work at Piqua, after which he studied chiropody at the Ohio College of Chiropody, Cleveland, Ohio. He received a degree from that institution in 1922, and has since engaged in successful practice at Mansfield, with offices in the Walpark Building. Doctor Hohendorf spent 1925 in graduate study in Paris, France. Doctor Hohendorf is a Republican, a member of the German Evangelical Church, and belongs to Warren Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 24, Piqua, and Optimist Club, Mansfield. Lester Redding, who is associated with Vernon Redding & Associates, architects, as manager, is a representative citizen of Mansfield. He was born at Ashland, Ohio, Dec. 16, 1882, the son of Peter M. and Melinda (Rohland) Redding. Peter M. Redding was born in Ashland County, Ohio, in November, 1844. He lived on a farm in early life and learned the carpenter's trade. Later he became associated with the Shearer-Kagy Company, contractors, and remained with that firm continuously until his retirement. Mr. Redding now lives at Ashland. He is a Civil War veteran, having served for a four-year period with McLaughlin's Squadron, Sherman's Brigade. Mr. Redding is a Democrat and has served as a member of the Ashland city council. He holds membership in the Methodist Church, and belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic. His wife, also born in Ashland County, died in 1925 and is buried at Ashland. To Mr. and Mrs. Redding were born five children, as follows : Vernon, lives at Mansfield ; Estella, married Peter Gongwer, lives at Ashland ; Henry N., deceased ; Frank, deceased, served during the Spanish-American War and died from fever at that time ; and Lester, the subject of this sketch. Lester Redding attended the public and high schools of Ashland and the Armour Institute of Architectural Engineering. He began his professional career in the offices of his brother, Vernon Redding. During 1906 and 1907 he was associated with the Ailing Construction Company, of Chicago, as superintendent of construction, and in 1908 returned to Mansfield to his former employment with his brother. In 1910 he was appointed architect for the State Department of Inspection of Work Shops, Factories and Public Buildings, with headquarters in Columbus. Mr. Redding served in that capacity until 1914, when he went with the 676 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO D. A. Ebinger Sanitary Manufacturing Company of Columbus as vice president and architect. He resigned in 1921 and has since been identified with Vernon Redding. The present firm of Vernon Redding & Associates has been in existence since 1924. They have offices in the Walpark Building. In 1911 Mr. Redding was united in marriage with Miss Floy Faulkner, the daughter of T. M. and Mary (Weller) Faulkner, natives of Indiana. The former resides at Bloomington, Ind., and his wife is deceased. Mr. Faulkner has held numerous public offices and is now court bailiff. Mr. and Mrs. Redding have no children. Politically, Mr. Redding is a Democrat. He is president of the Kiwanis Club, and former president of the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce. He belongs to Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 35, Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56, and West Brook Country Club. Olive Jane Brown. As superintendent of Mansfield General Hospital, Miss Brown is widely known throughout Richland County as one of its capable young professional women. She was born near Detroit, Mich., the daughter of Ammon and Ada (Dickerson) Brown. Ammon Brown, who died in 1926, was a native of Detroit. He was a farmer throughout his life and held numerous township offices. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church. His widow now lives at Plymouth, Mich. To Mr. and Mrs. Brown were born five children : Lefa, married Harry Miller, lives at Williamston, Mich. ; Raymond, lives at Greenville, Mich. ; Howard, lives at Detroit, Mich. ; Gilbert, lives at Plymouth, Mich.; and Olive Jane, the subject of this sketch. Olive Jane Brown attended the public schools of Plymouth, Mich., from which she was graduated in 1913. She spent two years at home and then entered the University of Michigan Hospital, from which she was graduated as a registered nurse in 1918. Miss Brown remained at the hospital for two years, and from 1920 and 1923 was superintendent of the Hillsdale Hospital, at Hillsdale, Mich. In 1924 she accepted the position as head of the obstetrical division of the University of Michigan Hospital, and in 1927 came to Mansfield as superintendent of nurses at Mansfield General Hospital. She became superintendent of the hospital in May, 1928. Miss Brown is identified with Ohio District, No. 5. Nurses Association as treasurer, and belongs to the Ohio Nurses Association, National Nurses Association, and American Red Cross Nurses Organization. She is past president and treasurer of the Ann Arbor District Nurses Association HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 677 and past president of the University of Michigan Hospital Alumni Association. Miss Brown is also a member of the Business and Professional Women's Club, and Order of the Eastern Star. William Robert Riester. Prominent among the young professional men of Mansfield is William Robert Riester, Doctor of Chiropody, who has been established in the practice of his profession in this city since 1929. He is a native of Sandusky, Ohio, born July 3, 1906, the son of Conrad and Elizabeth (Yerges) Riester. Conrad Riester is a substantial citizen of Sandusky, Ohio, where he has spent his entire life. He is the son of Robert Riester, who came to this country from Germany and settled at Sandusky in 1884, where he established a shoe business. His son, Conrad, is now the proprietor of this old established enterprise. Elizabeth Yerges Riester is also a native of Sandusky. To Mr. and Mrs. Riester were born three children: William Robert, the subject of this sketch ; Elizabeth and Ned, both at home. William Robert Riester grew up in Sandusky, Ohio, and in 1924 was graduated from high school. He then spent two years at Mt. Union College and in 1929 was graduated from the Ohio College of Chiropody with the degree of Doctor of Chiropody. He immediately established his present practice in Mansfield, with offices in the Farmers Bank Building. Doctor Riester is identified with the Ohio State Chiropody Association of Chiropodists. He belongs to Alpha Tau Omega, Alpha Gamma Kappa and Phi Delta Kappa fraternities. Throughout his college career he took an active part in athletics and was particularly interested in basketball. Doctor Riester is unmarried. Leonard C. Nigh, M. D. One of the capable and widely known young physicians and surgeons of Richland County is Doctor Nigh, who is engaged in the practice of his profession at Mansfield, with offices at 123 North Mulberry Street. He was born at Carey, Wyandotte County, Ohio, April 6, 1895, the son of Charles W. and Alpharetta (Carothers) Nigh. Charles W. Nigh was born in Wyandotte County, Ohio, in 1855. He engaged in general farming and stock raising during his entire life and died at Carey in 1901. His wife died in 1926. Mr. Nigh was a Republican, a member of the Lutheran Church, and belonged to the Knights of Pythias and Carey Lodge, F. & A. M. Leonard C., the subject of this sketch, was the only child born to Mr. and Mrs. Nigh. 678 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Charles W. Nigh was the son of Israel Nigh, who was born at Chambersburg, Franklin County, Pa. He was among the first settlers of Wyandotte County, Ohio, where he became a successful farmer. Alpharetta (Carothers) Nigh was the daughter of James and Catherine Carothers, both of whom were natives of LaGrange, Ind. They later lived at Carey, Ohio, where Mr. Carothers became well known as a manufacturer of farm implements. Leonard C. Nigh received his early education in the public schools of Carey, Ohio, and was graduated from high school in 1914. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Wittenberg College in 1919, and subsequently entered the Medical College of the University of Cincinnati, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1923. Doctor Nigh then served as interne at St. Joseph's Hospital, Fort Wayne, Ind., during 1923 and 1924, and in the latter year established offices at Mansfield. During the World War Doctor Nigh enlisted in the Medical Reserve Corps, which became a unit of the Student Army Training Corps. On Sept. 3, 1918, Doctor Nigh was united in marriage with Miss Ivalee Bussey, the daughter of George and Nannie Bussey, natives of Virginia. Mr. Bussey lives in Clarke County, Ohio. His wife is deceased. Doctor Nigh is a member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church, and belongs to Frank H. Marquis Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 690, Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28, Omega Upsilon Phi fraternity, and Lions Club. He is identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He is also a member of the staff of the Mansfield General Hospital. Politically, Doctor Nigh is a Democrat. Charles R. Keller, M. D., is numbered among the successful young physicians of Mansfield, where he has engaged in practice for a period of 15 years. He was born in Sandusky Township, Richland County, April 30, 1885, the son of Peter and Catherine (Beach) Keller. Peter Keller was born in Crawford County, Ohio, where he spent his life as a general farmer. He died in 1911 and his wife died in 1906. Both are buried at Crestline, Ohio. Mr. Keller was a Democrat and held numerous township offices. He and his wife were members of the German Reformed Church. Their children were: William, lives on the old homestead in Crawford County ; Louise, lives at Mansfield ; Susan, married E. J. Line, lives in Richland County ; John and Ida, both deceased ; Samuel S., M. D., lives at Saginaw, Mich.; and Charles R., the subject of this sketch. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 679 Charles R. Keller grew up on his father's farm and attended the district schools. He taught school for a number of years and during 1909-10-11 was superintendent of schools at Winesburg, Ohio. In 1911 he was graduated from Wooster College and then entered the University of Michigan, from which he received the degrees of Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine in 1913 and 1915, respectively. He spent 1916 as assistant surgeon at Maple Rapids, Mich., and located at Mansfield in 1916, where he has established an excellent practice. He has offices at 123 North Mulberry Street. Doctor Keller is an active member of the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He also is a member of the staff of Mansfield General Hospital. Doctor Keller was married in 1908 to Miss Erma L. Kuhn, the daughter of Christian and Elvira Kuhn, natives of Richland County, both now deceased. Doctor and Mrs. Keller have four children : Dwight E., Mildred M., Miriam L., and Robert L. The latter is deceased. Doctor Keller is affiliated with Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 35, Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28, and Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94. Charles Lee Shafer is perhaps one of the most prominent of the younger physicians and surgeons of Richland County, engaged in the practice of his profession at Mansfield, with offices in the Walpark Building. He was born in this city, Feb. 12, 1898, the son of D. F. Shafer. A complete sketch of D. F. Shafer appears elsewhere in this history. Charles Lee Shafer spent his early life in Mansfield and in 1916 was graduated from Mansfield High School. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Western Reserve University, Cleveland, in 1920, and three years later was graduated from the School of Medicine, Western Reserve University. He then served as an interne at Lakeside Hospital, Cleveland, and during 1924-25 was resident physician at Cleveland City Hospital. Doctor Shafer came to Mansfield in 1925 with child health demonstration work, and during 1926-27 was assistant health commissioner of Mansfield. He was acting health commissioner in 1928 and later in that year engaged in private practice in the city. In 1923 Doctor Shafer was united in marriage with Miss Miriam Platt Gugler, the daughter of W. H. and Charlotte (Platt) Gugler, the former a native of Galion and the latter of Mansfield. Mr. Gugler is president of the G. & H. Supply Company in Mansfield. Doctor Shafer is an active member of the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, American Medical Association, and 680 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Central State Pediatric Society. He is a Democrat, a member of the First Lutheran Church, Phi Gamma Delta and Nu Sigma Nu fraternities, and Optimist Club. Wilbert J. Bissman is a resident of the city of Mansfield, Ohio, where he has always lived and wh ere on Jan. 12, 1880, he was born. He is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Achenbach) Bissman, who were of German parentage. His father, Jacob Bissman, as a very young boy migrated with his parents and family to America from Germany, his parents being Michael and Louise (Reinhardt) Bissman, and located on a farm one-half mile east of Mifflin in Ashland County, Ohio, whose early years were spent on a farm and after leaving the farm engaged in the business of a produce merchant, which business he followed until the time of his death in 1888. At the outbreak of the Civil War he was located in Kansas City, Mo., and did guard duty on the border of that state for a time and after his discharge returned to Ohio and engaged in the produce business at Hillsboro for a short time and then returned to Mansfield, where he continued in business until the time of his death. In addition to being a prosperous merchant he was deeply interested in the civic welfare of his city and served it as councilman. At the time of his retirement from business he was the owner and occupant of the building located at No. 18 West Fourth Street in the city of Mansfield, which building is now owned by his son, who maintains a law office on the second floor. Wilbert J. Bissman was educated in the public schools of Mansfield and after his graduation from the Mansfield High School in 1900, engaged in the study of law and was admitted to practice in 1904, after which he engaged in the general practice of law with offices in the Dickson Building until 1916, at which time he was elected probate judge of Richland County, which office he filled for two terms, retiring from that office in 1925. As probate judge of Richland County he also had juvenile court jurisdiction and as such distinguished himself for his careful study of the problems of youth. Progressive in his ideas, he became a strong advocate for preventive measures as the solution of the problems of delinquency and dependency. It was through his efforts that the first public playground and recreational centers were established, establishing of a gymnasium for the under-privileged children and he assisted in the promotion of the Boy Scout movement and other social problems. The playground has since become established and is now being supported by public taxes. On retirement from public office he established himself in the general practice of law with offices at 181/2 West Fourth Street in the city of HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 681 Mansfield, in the building formerly owned and occupied by his father, where by an increasing practice he has proven a capable attorney. Mr. Bissman has demonstrated a keen interest in social welfare of his community, being a member of boards of relief and welfare agencies, for two years acting as general supervisor of the Playground Association. On Dec. 7, 1916, he was united in marriage with Miss Loie King, the daughter of George and Amanda (Shutt) King, residents of Richland County, both now deceased. In 1907 he was president of the Richland County Sunday School Association. He is a member of the Richland County Bar Association and the State Bar Association. He is affiliated with Mansfield Lodge, No. 35, Free and Accepted Masons, and was Master of this lodge in 1910. He is also a member of Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M., No. 94 ; Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No. 161; president of the Mansfield I. O. O. F. Temple Company since its organization in 1913; and also the Knights of Pythias. He is associated with the Mansfield Savings Bank and Trust Company, of which he is a member of the advisory committee. James E. Gray, M. D. Recognized as one of the able and successful physicians and surgeons of Mansfield, Doctor Gray is also widely known throughout Richland County. He was born near Millersburg, Holmes County, Ohio, Sept. 30, 1864, the son of George W. and Harriet (Quillian) Gray. George W. Gray was born in Holmes County, Ohio, and his wife was a native of Jefferson County. Throughout his life he engaged in general farming and stock raising and met with unusual success. He died in 1920 and his wife died in 1917. Both are buried at Millersburg, Ohio. Mr. Gray was a Democrat in politics and held membership in the Free Methodist Church. There were 11 children born to Mr. and Mrs. Gray, as follows: James E., the subject of this sketch; Rilla, deceased; Charles, lives at Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio ; Vernie, married Robert Ryan, lives at Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio ; Fannie, married Ralph Heddin, lives at Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Noble, lives at Phoenix, Ariz.; Chloe, lives at Cuyahoga Falls; Clifford, lives at Mt. Vernon, Ohio ; Clyde, lives at Akron, Ohio ; Floyd, lives at Cuyahoga Falls ; and Donald, who lives on the old homestead near Millersburg. James E. Gray grew up on his father's farm in Holmes County and attended the district schools. After his graduation from Millersburg High School he taught school in Holmes County for several terms. He 682 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO took up the study of medicine at Starling Medical College, now the College of Medicine, Ohio State University, and spent two years at that institution. He completed his medical work at Illinois Medical College, now Loyola College, and received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1898. Doctor Grey engaged in practice at Danville, Knox County, Ohio, until 1902, and at that time located at Butler, Ohio, where he remained continuously until Dec. 31, 1924. He then came to Mansfield to establish a general practice. Doctor Gray has offices at 455 Spring Mill Street. In 1889 Doctor Gray was united in marriage with Miss Estella Gray, the daughter of Henry and Rachel (Tarr) Gray, the former a native of Erie, Pa., and the latter of Nashville, Ohio. Mr. Gray, a farmer, is deceased, and his widow lives in Holmes County, Ohio. To Doctor and Mrs. Gray were born five children : 1. Sylvia, married Calvin Looney, lives at Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, and they have two daughters, Marguerite and Geraldine. 2. Walter, a veteran of the World War, now identified with the Goodrich Rubber Company, Akron, Ohio, lives at Cuyahoga Falls. 3. Dow, a veteran of the World War, now identified with the golf ball department of the Goodrich Rubber Company, Akron, Ohio, lives at Cuyahoga Falls. 4. Frances, married John Wolford, lives at Cuyahoga Falls, and they have three children : John, Donald, and Patricia Jane. 5. James, a veteran of the World War, lives at Cuyahoga Falls. He is a chemist in the employ of the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Akron. He married Miss Alberta Howe, and they have three children. Doctor Gray is a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Church, and belongs to Frank H. Marquis Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 690, and Maccabees. He is an active member of the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. Clarence Harold Bell, M. D. Among the most successful young physicians and surgeons of Mansfield may be mentioned Doctor Bell, who has offices at 234 Harker Street. He was born in Tyler County, W. Va., Nov. 13, 1899, the son of David Henry and Austie (Founds) Bell. David Henry Bell was born in Pennsylvania and now resides at Clarington, Ohio, where he has engaged in the general mercantile business for a number of years. In early life he was a farmer and teacher. Mr. Bell is a Republican and has held numerous public offices. He is a member of the Methodist Church. Austie Founds Bell, also a native of Pennsylvania, died in 1912 and is buried at Hannibal, Ohio. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bell : Clarence Harold, the subject of this sketch ; Eunice, deceased ; and one child died in infancy. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 683 The early education of Clarence Harold Bell was received in the public schools of Tyler County, W. Va., and Clarington, Ohio. After his graduation from Woodfield High School in 1917 he entered Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1926. He then served as interne at the Children's Hospital in Columbus and in the fall of 1926 located in Mansfield, where he is also a member of the staff of Mansfield General Hospital. In 1927 Doctor Bell married Miss Dorothy Elizabeth Brague, the daughter of Everett and Ada Brague, of Clarington, Ohio. They have a son, David Everett, born May 8, 1930. Doctor Bell is a Republican, a member of the University Club, and Phi Rho Sigma fraternity, of which he has served as vice president and secretary. He is also identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. David White Peppard, M. D. An outstanding citizen of Richland County is found in Doctor Peppard, who has engaged in the practice of his profession in Mansfield for almost 30 years. He was born at Crest-line, Crawford County, Ohio, April 8, 1877, the son of William and Margaret Caroline (White) Peppard. William Peppard was born in Richland County, about two miles west of Mansfield, in 1845, the son of Francis Peppard, who was one of the first settlers of this section of the county. The family later removed to Crestline, Ohio, and Francis Peppard owned a large farm near that city for many years. At an early age William Peppard enlisted for service in the Civil War and served throughout the entire war period with an Ohio company. He spent many years in the employ of the Pittsburgh & Ft. Wayne Railroad and became a freight engineer on the road between Crestline and Pittsburgh. He retired from the service in 1918 and died at Crestline in 1928. His widow, born near Crestline, now resides in Sandusky Township, Richland County. Mr. Peppard was a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, Grand Army of the Republic, and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. There were three children in the Peppard family: Charles, lives at Cleveland, Ohio ; Florence Gertrude, married Howard French, lives at Bay Village, Ohio ; and David White, the subject of this sketch. After his graduation from Crestline High School in 1896, David White Peppard entered Western Reserve University, Cleveland, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1901. He then served as an interne at Lakeside Hospital, Cleveland, and began his professional career 684 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO in Mansfield in 1902. Doctor Peppard took graduate work at the University of Vienna in 1907, studied at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., in 1910, and studied in New York in 1914. He is a member of the staff of Mansfield General Hospital and is recognized as a leader in his profession. In 1902 Doctor Peppard married Miss Louise Holcker, the daughter of Jacob and Magdaline Holcker, natives of Germany and early settlers of Crestline. Mr. Holcker is retired. His wife is deceased. Four children were born to Doctor and Mrs. Peppard : 1. Gretchen, married Paul Wilmore, lives at Mansfield, and they have a daughter, Shirley Morrison Wilmore. 2. Elizabeth, a graduate of Ohio State University, class of 1930, lives at home. 3. Eloise, attends Ohio State University. 4. William, born in 1918. Doctor Peppard has always been a Republican. He holds membership in the First Presbyterian Church, and belongs to B. P. O. Elks No. 56, and West Brook Country Club. He is also identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. John Cross Maxwell, who is identified with the Madison Realty Corporation as secretary and treasurer, is recognized as one of the highly successful business men of Mansfield. He was born in this city, April 24, 1876, the son of Robert B. and Eliza (Russell) Maxwell. Robert B. Maxwell was a prominent citizen of Mansfield for many years. He was born in Hollytown, Scotland, April 17, 1840, and came to this country in 1855. He lived in New York until 1873, at which time he located in Mansfield, and in partnership with his brother, John C. Maxwell, established the dry goods firm of R. B. Maxwell & Company. This became one of the leading business houses of Mansfield, and was conducted by Robert B. Maxwell after his brother's death in 1892. On Jan. 7, 1869, Robert B. Maxwell had married Miss Eliza Russell, and they were the parents of the following children : Janet, married F. O. Proctor, lives at Canton, Ohio ; Russell, lives at Mansfield ; Robert, deceased ; John Cross, the subject of this sketch ; Catherine, married Arthur Oberlin, lives at Harrisburg, Pa.; and Martha, married C. T. Routzhan, lives at Mansfield. Mr. Maxwell was also a director of the Richland Savings Bank, Mansfield Mutual Insurance Company, and Emergency Hospital. For a number of years he was an active member of the Mansfield Humane Society and made a world tour in the interest of missions. John Cross Maxwell attended the public and high schools of Mansfield and also studied at Muskingum College. He then entered his father's business in Mansfield, but in 1902 went to San Francisco, Calif., where HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 685 he was identified with several large dry goods firms. He returned to Mansfield in 1912 and resumed his former interest in the dry goods business, which had been established by his father. In 1916 Mr. Maxwell became identified with the real estate business in this city with G. W. Bahl, Sr. When the Madison Realty Corporation was organized Mr. Maxwell became secretary and treasurer. They have offices in the Farmers Bank Building. Politically, Mr. Maxwell is a Republican. He belongs to the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56, Mansfield City Club, West Brook Country Club, and Mansfield Real Estate Board. Wayne Parry Mecklem, M. D. One of the most prominent medical practitioners of Richland County is Doctor Mecklem, of Mansfield, who is a veteran of the World War. He was born at Lucas, Richland County, May 24, 1886, the son of Dr. William S. and Alice C. (Parry) Mecklem. Dr. William S. Mecklem was a leading physician and surgeon of Mansfield for a number of years. He was born at Beaver Falls, Pa., and received his early education there. He then attended Greentown Academy and was graduated from the School of Medicine, Western Reserve University, Cleveland. Doctor Mecklem was associated in practice for one year with Dr. Boals, of Lucas, Ohio, and then established a private practice at that place. After several years, however, he removed to Mansfield, where he became widely known as a physician. He also served as coroner of Richland County and was a member of the school board. Doctor Mecklem died in July, 1919, and is buried at Mansfield. His widow is a native of Lucas, Ohio. Doctor Mecklem was a Democrat, a member of the Lutheran Church, and belonged to Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; and Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree. There were two children in the Mecklem family: Wayne Parry, the subject of this sketch ; and Nellie B., lives at Mansfield. The early education of Wayne Parry Mecklem was obtained in the public schools of Lucas and Mansfield and following his graduation from Mansfield High School in 1905 he entered the Cleveland College of Physicians & Surgeons, now Western Reserve University. He received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1910, spent the following year as a member of the medical staff of the Ohio State Reformatory, and during 1911-12 served as an interne in St. Clair Hospital, Cleveland. He returned to Mansfield in 1912 and became associated in general practice with his father. On Aug. 9, 1917, Doctor Mecklem volunteered for service in the 686 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO World War and was commissioned a first lieutenant in the Medical Reserve Corps and sent to Fort Benjamin Harrison. He was later transferred to Camp Zachary Taylor, Kentucky, where he was assigned to the 336th Field Hospital, 309th Sanitary Train, 84th Division. Doctor Mecklem went to France with this outfit and was attached to Base Hospital No. 3. Subsequently, he was transferred to Tesee, France, and later with the 106th Infantry, 27th Division. He was again transferred to Camp No. 52, at LaMans, France, and then to Mobile Hospital No. 7. He also was on duty in the medical department at the A. E. F. University at Beaune, France, and was discharged from Camp Dix, N. J., in August, 1919. Upon his return to Mansfield at that time Doctor Mecklem resumed his practice at his former location. He removed to his present offices at 82 Park Avenue West in 1920. Doctor Mecklem is physician for the Richland County Children's Home, and a member of the staff of Mansfield General Hospital. He is also identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. In June, 1921, Doctor Mecklem was united in marriage with Miss Edna McClelland Fidler, the daughter of John and Mary Fidler, of Mansfield, both now deceased. For many years Mr. Fidler was connected with the Ohio State Reformatory in an official capacity. To Doctor and Mrs. Mecklem have been born two sons : John Leslie, born Dec. 15, 1922; and David McClellan, born Feb. 25, 1930. Politically, Doctor Mecklem is a Democrat. He holds membership in St. Luke's Lutheran Church, and has the following lodge affiliations: Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21 ; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Kosair Temple, Louisville, Ky.; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society ; Mystic Club ; American Legion, McVey Post, No. 16 ; and Optimist Club. Edward Remy. One of the outstanding citizens of Mansfield, well known throughout Richland County, is Edward Remy, who was vice president of the Richland Trust Company. He was born in Washington Township, Richland County, Feb. 11, 1853, the son of Peter and Anna M. (Touby) Remy. Peter Remy was born in Mogendorf, Nassau, Germany, Sept. 20, 1830. He came to this country with his parents in 1844 and located at Mansfield, the Remy family being among the first families in the new settlement. When 15 years of age Mr. Remy entered the employ of a Mr. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 687 Keith, who kept a tavern just north of the city. Two months later he entered the offices of Lieutenant Governor Thomas H. Ford, where he read law for a short time. He then was employed as a salesman in the dry goods store of Endly & Wigle for three years, spent one year as a salesman for the firm of Frost & McBride, four years as a salesman for Sturges-Grimes & Company, and in December, 1852, went to California. He conducted a general store at Weaverville, Calif., and in 1857 returned to Mansfield, where he established a dry goods business with his cousin, the firm being known as P. and A. W. Remy. The partnership continued until 1864, at which time Mr. Remy in partnership with James A. Hedges and Abraham C. Cummings, purchased the wholesale grocery, confectionery and liquor business of E. Clapp & Company. The firm was known as Remy, Hedges & Company, and later became Remy, Hedges & Walters. Mr. Remy also was interested in the manufacturing business as maker of the celebrated patent thill coupling, fork, hoe, and other handles. This plant, known as Remy, Warren & Company, was located at Lodi, Ohio. Peter Remy died in 1883 and his wife died in 1926. Both are buried at Mansfield. She was also a native of Germany, born in 1832. They were the parents of eight children, as follows : Edward, the subject of this sketch ; Frank M., lives at Mansfield ; Mary L., William A., Anna, and Emma, all deceased ; Peter L., and Charles F., who live at Mansfield. Peter Remy took an active part in the political life of Mansfield. He served as city treasurer for two years, as treasurer of Madison Township for two terms, as director of the Infirmary, as a member of the Board of Public Improvements, and as a member of the Board of Equalization. He was a director of the Richland Mutual Fire Insurance Company. Mr. Remy was a prominent member of St. John's Evangelical Church and served on the board of trustees. Edward Remy attended the public and high schools of Mansfield. His first position was as clerk in the dry goods store of M. & J. H. Black. He served as bookkeeper of the Richland National Bank from 1870 until 1874, as deputy treasurer of Richland County from 1874 until 1878, and engaged in the grocery business with his brother, Frank M. Remy from 1878 until 1882. He again served as deputy treasurer from 1882 until 1886, and held the office of treasurer of Richland County from 1886 until 1890. Mr. Remy was cashier of the Farmers National Bank from 1890 until 1904, and the following year was elected president of that institution. In 1906 he organized the Security Savings & Trust Company, of which he served as president and director until its merger in December, 1929, with the Richland Trust Company. On Oct. 17, 1878, Mr. Remy was united in marriage with Miss Barbara Arting, the daughter of Jacob and Barbara Arting, natives of 688 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Germany, and early settlers of Mansfield. To Mr. and Mrs. Remy were born four children: 1. Bertha A., married William VanDyke, lives at Mansfield and they have a daughter, Dorothy. 2. Dr. Edward, Jr., who died in 1925. He was a graduate of the Cleveland College of Physicians and Surgeons, and served in France during the World War with the rank of captain, U. S. Medical Corps. He was past commander of American Legion, McVey Post, No. 16. He married Miss Martha Leistensneider, and they had a daughter, Maryana. 3. Arthur W., who is city sales agent for the Shoot Candy Company, Cleveland. 4. Pearl E., married John B. Conrad, who is manager of the Richland Shale Brick Company, Mansfield. Mr. Remy has always been a Democrat. He is an active member of St. John's Evangelical Church and has been a member of the church choir for 37 years. On Oct. 17, 1928, Mr. and Mrs. Remy celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. Karl Philip Troll. As president of the city council, Mr. Troll is also prominent in business circles in Mansfield, where he is manager of the savings department of the Mansfield Savings Bank & Trust Company. He was born in Mansfield, May 6, 1872, the son of Martin and Eva Marie (Schafer) Troll. Martin Troll was born at Edenkoln, near Landan Rheinsfaltz, Germany, Nov. 19, 1833, the son of Jacob and Margaret (Schmidt) Troll. He came to this country with his parents in 1850 and they made the voyage on a three-mast sailing vessel, the "Arcadia." During the trip they encountered extremely bad weather, in which all three masts of the ship were carried away. The vessel was forced to land on the island of St. Thomas, Danish West Indies, near Cuba, and two weeks later landed at New Orleans, La., in December, 1850, the voyage having required 110 days to complete. After three months spent at New Orleans, the Troll family removed to St. Louis, Mo., where the parents of Martin died. On Sept. 14, 1854, he married Miss Eva Marie Schafer, and ten years later they came to Ohio and settled at Mansfield. Mrs. Troll died Aug. 4, 1897, and her husband died Jan. 18, 1910. Both are buried in Mansfield. Mr. Troll had engaged in the manufacture of barrels after coming to Mansfield, and met with unusual success in business. He was a Democrat, a member of St. John's Evangelical Church, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Knights of Pythias. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Martin Troll: Philippine, born May 10, 1855, died Aug. 6, 1856 ; Emma Marie, born May 27, 1857, married on HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 689 May 10, 1882, to William Snodgrass, both deceased ; Martin C., born Aug. 15, 1859, married on Oct. 26, 1884, to Elizabeth Corry, who is deceased, and he lives at Seattle, Wash. ; Margaret Marie, born Dec. 21, 1861, died June 21, 1863 ; Augusta P., born Aug. 18, 1864, married in October, 1890, to F. J. Fletter, and she is deceased ; Caroline M., born July 27, 1866, married on Aug. 16, 1889, to John Ritter, of Mansfield ; Marie Josephine, born Sept. 12, 1868, married on Sept. 18, 1889, to Ferdinand H. Fox, of Mansfield ; Karl Philip, the subject of this sketch ; and Rudolph Gustave, born Sept. 27, 1874, lives at San Francisco, Calif. Karl Philip Troll obtained his education in the Mansfield public schools and is a greduate of Ohio Business College. He began his business career in the employ of the Joseph Black Dry Goods Company, Mansfield, and later was associated with the H. M. Weaver Company, wholesale shoe dealers. In 1896 he went with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in a clerical capacity, and resigned from the company's employ as chief clerk in December, 1917. Since that time he has been identified with the Mansfield Savings Bank & Trust Company as manager of the savings department. Mr. Troll was elected city auditor of Mansfield in 1910 and served for a period of four years, being re-elected to office in 1912. He was also appointed by Mayor O'Donnell as a member of the Mansfield Public Library Board, and in November, 1917, was elected as councilman-atlarge, taking office in January, 1918. He was re-elected in 1919, 1921, and 1923, and held office until 1926 with the exception of one term. In November, 1927, he was again elected to that office and served as president pro tern. until January, 1929, at which time he became president of the council. In 1894 Mr. Troll was united in marriage with Miss Ida A. Kline, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Rohrer) Kline, natives of Pennsylvania, both deceased. Joseph Kline was the son of Henry and Mary (Whistler) Kline, who were natives of Lancaster County, Pa. Both are buried in Clay's Cemetery, Richland County, Ohio. They were among the earliest settlers of this section, and were the parents of 14 children. To Karl Philip and Ida A. (Kline) Troll were born three children : 1. Fred H., lives at Mansfield, married Miss Lulu Ruth Brown, and they have a son, Frederick H., Jr., born in 1923. 2. Earl K., lives at Mansfield, married Miss Marguerite Merkel, and they have a daughter, Hellenann. 3. Mary A., married John P. Shiplet, lives at Mansfield, and they have a son, Jack. Both of Mr. Troll's sons are veterans of the World War. Mr. Troll has always been a Democrat. He holds membership in the First Lutheran Church, and has the following lodge affiliations : Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94 ; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21, 690 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO recorder for 13 years ; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society ; Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56; and Knights of Pythias. Rienzi Verne Myers, M. D. One of the most capable professional men of Mansfield is Doctor Myers, who has engaged in the practice of medicine in this city since 1913. He was born at Shelby, Ohio, the son of Dr. I. A. and Malvina (Matson) Myers. Dr. I. A. Myers served with the medical corps during the Civil War, and for many years was a prominent physician and surgeon of Shelby, Ohio. He was a native of Pennsylvania and his wife was born near Shelby, Ohio. He graduated in medicine at Western Reserve Medical School, Cleveland, and spent his entire professional life at Shelby, except when he served as surgeon during the Civil War at Nashville, Tenn. Doctor Myers was identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He was a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge, and Grand Army of the Republic. To Doctor and Mrs. Myers were born three sons: Roy, graduate of Western Reserve College and Cornell University; Guy, a graduate of Stanford University, is a Doctor of Chemistry, lives in the Philippine Islands, where he serves as government chemist at Cavite U. S. Naval Base ; and Rienzi Verne, the subject of this sketch. The boyhood of Rienzi Verne Myers was spent at Shelby, Ohio, where he received his early education, going through grade and high school. He is a graduate of East High School, Cleveland, class of 1901, and received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Adelbert College, Western Reserve University, in 1906, and the degree of Doctor of Medicine from Western Reserve University in 1909. Doctor Myers then served as an interne in the Cleveland City Hospital and remained there during 1909- 10-11. He was connected with the Ohio State Reformatory Hospital as medical interne from 1911 until 1913, and has since been engaged in private practice at Mansfield, with offices at 25 East Third Street. Doctor Myers is a member of the staff of the Mansfield General Hospital, serving on surgical service and as instructor for nurses, and is identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. During 1921 he took graduate work at the University of Vienna. In 1918 Doctor Myers was united in marriage with Miss Otilla Bodey, the daughter of August and Otilla (Sutter) Bodey, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Ohio. Doctor and Mrs. Myers have no children. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 691 Doctor Myers is a Republican, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias and Phi Rho Sigma fraternity. During the World War he served on the U. S. Draft Board in charge of the examination of reference cases. John Ferdinand Weimer. Numbered among the most prominent of the younger business men of Mansfield is John F. Weimer, who is owner and manager of the Mansfield Broadcasting Association. He was born at Barrs Mills, Ohio, April 21, 1899, the son of John Jerome and Mary Louise (Burkholder) Weimer. John Jerome Weimer was born at Sugar Creek, Ohio. He was a blacksmith by trade and spent many years in the employ of the AultmanTaylor Manufacturing Company in charge of their blacksmith shops. Mr. Weimer was a Republican, a member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, and belonged to the Maccabees. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried at Mansfield. They were the parents of eight children, as follows : Alta, married J. Leo Hartman, who is principal of the Hedges Street School, Mansfield ; Vergie, married E. A. Knife, lives at Sugar Creek, Ohio; Hallie June, lives at Los Angeles, Calif.; Lillian, deceased, was the wife of Fred Kelser ; Clifford, a World War veteran, lives at Mansfield ; Ralph Earl, lives at Mansfield ; John Ferdinand, the subject of this sketch ; and Harlan, lives at Mansfield. John Ferdinand obtained his education in the public schools of Barrs Mills and Mansfield. For a time he was employed by the Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Company, and later went as an electrician with the Ohio Brass Company. Mr. Weimer has had a varied career in connection with electrical work and has spent much time in experimental study. On Dec. 27, 1926, his radio station in Mansfield was licensed and known as Station WLBV, its first program being put "on the air" Jan. 1, 1927. In April, 1929, the station name was changed to WJW, and broadcasts on 1210 kilocycles or 247.8 meters. The station is complete in every detail and ranks among the finest in the state. It specializes in commercial broadcasting, and is located on the ninth floor of the Richland Trust Company Building. In March, 1917, Mr. Weimer was united in marriage with Miss Gladys Luella Leinard, the daughter of Elza Leinard, of Mansfield. He is a retired contractor. Mr. and Mrs. Weimer have three children: Robert Gerald, Mary Kathryn, and Ruth Eileen, all students. Politically, Mr. Weimer is independent. He and his family hold membership in the First Methodist Episcopal Church. 692 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Ralph M. Hardy, who holds the office of clerk of the board of Richland County Commissioners, is a representative young man of Mansfield, where he was born, Feb. 12, 1904. He is the son of Malcolm and Florence (Muth) Hardy. Malcolm Hardy was born at Meadville, Pa., and his wife is a native of Mansfield. He was employed by the Erie Railroad Company for several years as a machinist and in 1910 came to Mansfield, where he spent 13 years as a millwright with the Roderick Lean Manufacturing Company. He is now an inspector for the New Method Stove Company in Mansfield. Mr. Hardy is a Republican and a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Hardy the following children were born : Ralph M., the subject of this sketch ; Neil, Clair, Roy, Elden, Florence, and Mildred, all at home. Ralph M. Hardy grew up in Mansfield and received his education in the public schools. He was graduated from Mansfield High School in 1923 and at that time entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a clerk and train dispatcher. On July 8, 1929, he accepted his present position as clerk of the board, Richland County Commissioners. On Oct. 8, 1926, Mr. Hardy was united in marriage with Miss Evelyn E. Selby, the daughter of John W. Selby, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. Mr. and Mrs. Hardy have a son, Donald E., born Aug. 28, 1927. Politically, Mr. Hardy in a Republican. He is a member of the Christian Church, and is active in the club life of the city. George J. Kochenderfer. Exemplifying high and generous ideals in newspaper work, a consistent worker in behalf of every worthy movement for community advancement and the public good, George J. Kochenderfer, editor of the Mansfield Journal, is one of Mansfield's influential citizens. Mr. Kochenderfer was a member of the original hotel committee of the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce, which did the work preliminary to the erection of the new Mansfield-Leland Hotel, and he has continued as a member of the board of directors of the Richland Hotel Company under whose direction the hotel was built and placed under lease to the operating company. Mr. Kochenderfer, son of Dr. John H. and Malvina (Cox) Kochenderfer, was born at New Lexington, Perry County, Ohio, Nov. 29, 1877, and resided there until 1890, when the family removed to Galion. Mr. Kochenderfer maintained his home there until 1905, when he came to Mansfield to enter the employ of the Mansfield News as a reporter. The HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 693 News was then owned by the late William S. Cappeller. Later, Mr. Kochenderfer was made city editor of the News, and in 1922 became editor of that newspaper, resigning the editorship shortly after the News came under its present ownership. Mr. Kochenderfer's father was a native of Lebanon County, Pa., and his mother, born near Shelby, Ohio, was the daughter of George and Hannah Cox, pioneer residents of Richland County. John H. Kochenderfer, after having served in the 102nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, was in the employ for a time of what is now the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. Later, he became a student at Starling Medical College, Columbus. He entered upon the practice of medicine in Perry County and in 1890 removed to Galion, where he continued in the practice of his profession until shortly before his death in 1913 at the age of 71 years. Dr. Kochenderfer was a survivor of the ill-fated steamer "Sultana," which exploded in the Mississippi River near Memphis, Tenn., while loaded with exchanged prisoners of war. His wife died Dec. 26, 1928, on her 89th birthday anniversary. Both are buried in the Shelby Cemetery. A son, Edward C., died in 1923. George J. Kockenderfer was interested in printing and newspaper work from his earliest school days. At the age of six years he had a hand press and outfit, and during his school days spent his spare time in the Galion newspaper offices, folding papers to gain permission to feed a foot power press. When in 1894 he started the first school publication at Galion High School, the enterprise was frowned upon by school authorities who contended that it interfered with school work, while quite the contrary was true. After his graduation from Galion High School Mr. Kochenderfer attended college at Columbus and Ada, Ohio. He gave up his college work, however, to enter newspaper work. At the age of 21 years he was elected justice of the peace at Galion and served a three-year term. Mr. Kochenderfer became editor of the Mansfield Daily Journal in January, 1925, and continued in that capacity until August, 1927, when the Journal suspended publication after its stock control had been purchased by the owner of the competing newspaper. He is now editor of the new Mansfield Journal, which was established in the fall of 1930 as an independent evening newspaper. On June 15, 1907, Mr. Kochenderfer was united in marriage with Miss Bessie M. Plumb, the daughter of William and Sarah (Underwood) Plumb, both natives of Ohio. Mrs. Kochenderfer's mother still survives. Mr. and Mrs. Kochenderfer have a son, Robert E., born in Mansfield, May 5, 1908. He is a graduate of Mansfield High School, class of 1926, and attended Ohio Wesleyan University and the University of Alabama. He 694 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO discontinued his college work, however, to enter the employ of the Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Company at its Mansfield plant. Mr. Kochenderfer and his family are members of Central Methodist Church, Mansfield, and he belongs to the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and Sons of Union Veterans. He is also identified with the Mansfield Rotary Club, whose motto, "service above self," is one that in all the years of his newspaper work, Mr. Kochenderfer has best exemplified. Oscar H. Schettler, M. D., is among the foremost of the younger physicians and surgeons of Mansfield, who has successfully engaged in the practice of his profession in this city since 1923. He was born at Cleveland, Ohio, Oct. 15, 1896, the son of Charles Augustus and Louisa (Hoffman) Schettler. Charles Augustus Schettler was born in Mansfield in 1867. He removed to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1891, and spent several years in that city as a jobber in the water supply business. Later, he returned to Mansfield as manager of the Charles Hoffman Company. Mr. Schettler died in 1924, and his widow continues to reside in Mansfield, where she was born. Politically, Mr. Schettler was independent. He held membership in St. John's Evangelical Church and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Schettler: Marie Elizabeth, who is interested in the advertising business in Boston, Mass.; and Oscar H., the subject of this sketch. Oscar H. Schettler attended the public schools of Cleveland and in 1914 was graduated from East Technical High School. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Ohio State University in 1918 and the degree of Doctor of Medicine from Western Reserve University in 1921. From July 1, 1921, until June 30, 1922, Doctor Schettler served as an interne in St. Luke's Hospital, Cleveland, and during 1922 and 1923 was resident physician at the same hospital. He established his present practice in Mansfield in 1923. Doctor Schettler spent 1930 in graduate study in clinics in Berlin, Germany, and Vienna, Austria. He is now a member of the staff of Mansfield General Hospital, and is identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. In 1917 Doctor Schettler was united in marriage with Miss Mary Anna Brewer, the daughter of Fred and Emma (Clark) Brewer, of Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Brewer, retired, was born at Chardon, Ohio, and his wife is a native of Delaware, Ohio. Doctor and Mrs. Schettler have one child, Richard, born in 1924. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 695 Doctor Schettler is a Republican, a member of Phi Beta Kappa honorary fraternity, Alpha Mu Pi Omega medical fraternity, and West Brook Country Club. He is affiliated with Venus Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 152 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94, Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Al Koran Temple ; and Mansfield Scottish Rite Society. Doctor Schettler has offices at 59 North Mulberry Street. Richard O. Davies. As secretary and general manager of KallmertenBaer, Inc., Mr. Davies is recognized as one of the capable young business men of Mansfield. He was born at Covington, Ky., Feb. 11, 1896, the son of David John and Frances M. (Kent) Davies. David John Davies is a substantial and well known citizen of Mansfield. He was born at Pottsville, Pa., and was employed in the coal mines of Pennsylvania for a time. Later, he became a mine contractor. He became interested in the insurance business many years ago and went to Covington, Ky., as district superintendent of the Western Southern Insurance Company. His territory also included Cincinnati, Ohio. Mr. Davies came to Mansfield in 1903, where he continued in the insurance business. He also conducted the Richland Chattel Loan Company, and at the present time is identified with the Davies Household Specialties, with offices at 122 North Main Street. Mr. Davies is a Democrat and a member of the Episcopal Church. His wife is a native of Philadelphia. Their children are as follows : Beulah, married Frank Gilbert, a conductor on the Pennsylvania Railroad, lives at Mansfield; Richard 0., the subject of this sketch; David John, Jr., a veteran of the World War, having served in France with the Aviation Service of the U. S. Army; Bertram F., a lake capitan; Ida Fern, married Lewis Miller, resident manager of the Greyhound Bus Lines, lives at Detroit, Mich.; and Howard Kent, attends Cornell University. Richard 0. Davies attended the public and high schools of Mansfield, from which he was graduated in 1913. He then entered the University of Pennsylvania. His first position was as purchasing agent for the Humphrey Manufacturing Company, with whom he was associated for three years. He then became assistant production manager of the Aultman-Taylor Company, and spent some time in the cost department of the Hughes-Keenan Company, Mansfield. He became a bookeeper for the Kallmerten-Baer Company in 1925, and the following year became a partner in the business. When the firm was incorporated in 1930 Mr. Davies was elected secretary and general manager. 696 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO In 1915 Mr. Davies was united in marriage with Miss Alta K. Bates, the daughter of William and Catherine Bates, natives of Canton and Mansfield, respectively. Mr. Bates is deceased and his widow lives in this city. Mr. and Mrs. Davies have two children, Mary Jane and David John. Mr. Davies is a member of St. John's Evangelical Church, and belongs to the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, No. 56, Knights of Pythias, Amima Club, and Chamber of Commerce. He is secretary of the Isaac Walton League. Politically, Mr. Davies is a Republican. Walter Underwood, sheriff of Richland County and a well known and highly respected citizen of Mansfield, is a native of that city. He was born Aug. 20, 1887, the son of W. H. and Mary E. (Meaney) Underwood. W. H. Underwood was born at Mansfield, where he spent more than 20 years in the employ of the Aultman-Taylor Company as a stationary engineer. He retired in 1919 and died in 1928. His wife, born at Perrysville, Ohio, died in 1922. Both are buried at Mansfield. Mr. Underwood was a Democrat, a member of the First Lutheran Church, and belonged to the Loyal Order of Moose and Maccabees. His wife held membership in the Mayflower Congregational Church. Their children were : Walter, the subject of this sketch ; Hazel, Frank, Edward, and Harold, all live in Mansfield. Walter Underwood was educated in the public schools of Mansfield, and as a youth learned the machinist's trade. He spent several years in the employ of the Barnes Manufacturing Company, and the Mansfield Tire & Rubber Company, and later engaged in commercial trucking. He spent five years in the trucking department of the Central Fruit Company, and in 1928 became a sales representative for the Page Dairy Company. He resigned from the latter position in 1930 to become sheriff of Richland County. He was elected Nov. 4, 1930, and assumed the duties of the office Jan. 5, 1931. Mr. Underwood was married in 1916 to Miss Ethel Mae Straugh, the daughter of Emmer and Rebecca (Toomey) Straugh, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Ohio. They live at Mansfield. Mrs. Underwood died in 1919, leaving a son, Richard Walter, who was born May 11, 1918. Politically, Mr. Underwood is a Democrat. He served as a member of the Democratic executive committee for a period of four years, and in November, 1925, was elected as a councilman from the second ward. He was reelected to office in 1927 and 1929, from the same ward, which is HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 697 now known as the fourth ward. He served as chairman of the finance committee and has also served as a member of the salaries committee. Mr. Underwood is affiliated with Venus Lodge, F. and A. M., No. 152 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94; Baku Grotto, M. O. V. P. E. R.; and the United Commercial Travelers. Irwin Hiram LeBarre, M. D., is one of the most prominent physicians and surgeons of Richland County, having successfully engaged in the practice of his profession in Mansfield for more than 20 years. He was born at Glanford, County Wentworth, Ontario, Canada, Aug. 12, 1874, the son of William D. and Maria A. (Pilkey) LeBarre. The LeBarre family is of French Huegenot descent and settled in Canada during the bitter religious strife in France. The name is also spelled "DeBarre." William D. LeBarre was born in County Wentworth, Ontario, Canada, in 1845, and his wife was born there also in 1843. Throughout his life he was an extensive stockman and also engaged in the wholesale meat business, being widely known throughout Ontario in that particular line. Mr. LeBarre died May 3, 1925, and his wife died Feb. 8, 1920. Both are buried at Hamilton, Ontario. Mr. LeBarre was a member of the Methodist Church, and belonged to the Royal Templar Society. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. LeBarre : Irwin Hiram, the subject of this sketch ; Charles, farmer and stockman, lives at Hamilton, Ontario, Canada ; Mabel, married M. Myers, lives at Lincoln, Calif.; Marshall, deceased ; Marie, married Fred Bowers, lives at Springfield, Ohio ; and Jennie, who died in New York City, Oct. 28, 1918. She was a talented and widely known musician, and a graduate of the Toronto College of Music, as well as the Boston Conservatory of Music. She had studied extensively in Europe and at the time of her death was teaching music in New York City. Irwin Hiram LeBarre attended the public schools of his native city, and in 1891 was graduated from the Collegiate Institute. Two years later he completed a course at the Canada Business College, and subsequently took up the study of medicine at Trinity University, from which the received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1897. He was also elected a Fellow of Trinity Medical College. Doctor LeBarre began his professional career in practice at Buffalo, N. Y., but in 1898 went to Alaska with a mining party as their physician. He established offices at Lexington, Ohio, in June, 1899, but the following year removed to Windsor, Ohio. Doctor LeBarre has been located in Mansfield since 1909, with the ex- 698 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO ception of time spent in graduate study at the New York Polyclinic Medical School and Hospital. He has offices at 50 South Main Street. In 1896 Doctor LeBarre was united in marriage with Miss Maria A. Webber, the daughter of Thomas E. and Julia Webber, natives of County Wentworth, Ontario, Canada. Mr. Webber died in 1923 and his wife died in 1888. Both are buried at Glanford, Ontario. Doctor and Mrs. LeBarre are the parents of two sons: Irwin Earl, D. D. S., a graduate of Western Reserve University, married Miss Nellie Myers, and they live at Plymouth, Ohio ; and Hiram Osler, a graduate of the Coyne Electric School of Chicago, lives at Hayesville, Ohio. Doctor LeBarre is a Democrat, and in November, 1916, was elected coroner of Richland County. He was re-elected in November, 1918, but resigned, although he was later appointed for a third term. He is a member of Grace Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Doctor LeBarre is identified with the Richland County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. William L. Althouse, who is identified with the firm of Althouse & Jones, architects, is one of the representative citizens of Mansfield and Richland County. He was born in this city, Aug. 16, 1882, the son of John R. and Mary Cairns (Skiles) Althouse. Both John R. Althouse and his wife were natives of Lancaster County, Pa., and are deceased. William L. Althouse received his education in the public schools of Mansfield and was graduated from Mansfield High School in 1898. He then entered the offices of Vernon Redding, architect, and in 1914 became associated with Herbert S. Jones as a member of the firm of Alt-house & Jones. They have offices in the Farmers Bank Building. Among the notable contracts handled by this well known firm may be mentioned the following: Farmers Bank Building; Mansfield Senior High School; Richland Trust Building; Ohio Brass Administration Building; Park Avenue Baptist Church. They have also designed many other buildings, including 40 public schools in the vicinity of Mansfield. In 1909 Mr. Althouse was united in marriage with Miss Sue Fisher, the daughter of Jerry and Mary (McGuire) Fisher, natives of Pennsylvania and Mansfield, respectively. Both are deceased and are buried in Mansfield. Mr. Althouse is a member of the Baptist Church, and belongs to the West Brook Country Club, Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, and HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 699 American Institute of Architects. He belongs to Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 35 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 28 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94; Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree; Al Koran Temple; Mansfield Scottish Rite Society; Mystic Club ; and Mansfield Shrine Club. George H. Hughes. One of Mansfield's best known business men and most substantial citizens is George H. Hughes, who is secretary and general manager of the Hughes Supply Company, 134-36 West Sixth Street. He was born in Weller Township, Richland County, July 17, 1869, the son of David and Fannie (Palmer) Hughes. David Hughes was born in Beaver County, Pa., in 1823, the son of John and Rebecca Hughes, who settled in Weller Township, Richland County, about 1830. John Hughes was born in Wales and his wife was a native of Scotland. Both are buried at Shelby, Ohio. He was a farmer throughout his life, and his son, David, father of the subject of this sketch, also followed general farming and stock raising. He died in 1890 and his wife, who was born in Franklin Township, Richland County, in 1831, died in 1910. Both are buried in Franklin Cemetery, Weller Township. Mr. Hughes was a Republican and held the offices of township trustee, treasurer, and school director. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. To David and Fannie (Palmer) Hughes were born the following children : Benjamin, deceased; Charles M., deceased ; Olive, deceased ; Adeline, married Rev. E. T. Hagerman, lives at Des Moines, Ia.; Josephine, deceased ; Melvin J., deceased; Luella, married Jacob Osbun, and she is deceased; George H., the subject of this sketch ; and Frank A., lives at Mansfield. The early life of George H. Hughes was spent on his father's farm in Weller Township, and he attended the district schools. He also attended West Salem High School. After the death of his father he managed the home place for two years and during that time also taught in the township school. He removed to Pavonia, Ohio, in 1892, and spent three years as a teacher there. He then purchased a general store at that place in the old Guthrie Building, which had been used as a general store for more than half a century. Mr. Hughes continued as a merchant there for eight years and then sold the business and removed to Mansfield. He traveled as a representative of the Humphryes Manufacturing Company, of Mansfield, and later was sent by the company to Oklahoma City, Okla., then a city of 17,000 people. At the time of the great earthquake in San Francisco, Calif., Mr. Hughes was sent by his