(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) 950 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO with the interests of the G. S. Stewart Company. He has held his present position as factory superintendent since 1915. Mr. Hill is also a member of the board of directors. Mr. Hill was married (first) in 1900 to Miss Minnie Milhaupt, of Norwalk, who died in 1926. She was the daughter of Joseph and Mary Milhaupt, who were natives of Huron County, both now deceased. A daughter was born to Charles H. and Minnie (Milhaupt) Hill, Norma, a graduate of Ohio University, married Vincent Hinde, of Huron, and they have a daughter, Nancy Jean Hinde. Mr. Hill was married (second) in January, 1927, to Miss May L. Bevier, of Norwalk. Mr. Hill has always been a Republican and since 1926 has been a member of the city council. He belongs to the Universalist Church, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. He is former president of the Kiwanis Club. The maternal grandfather of Charles A. Hill, Charles Manahan, was killed while in service during the Civil War. He is also a direct descendant of General Hill, famous Southern soldier and general, who was killed at the Battle of Gettysburg. John Aubrey Wright. Among the active men prominent in the business and social life of Bellevue, one of the most prominent is John Aubrey Wright, who is president of the Wright Brothers Insurance Agency. He was born at Bellevue, March 28, 1858, the son of John and Betsy (Ford) Wright. Both. John Wright, the father, and his wife were natives of England. At the age of 20 years he came to the United States and settled on a farm in Lyme Township, Huron County. During his first year here he was employed by Rufus Russell for the sum of $100 per year. With this small start after one year he married and settled on a farm in Groton Township, Erie County, Ohio. Mr. Wright became one of the most prosperous farmers in this section of Ohio and was the owner of 4,000 acres of well improved land. He retired from farming in 1884. He was then living in Lyme Township, Huron County, four miles east of Bellevue, where he spent the remainder of his life. He died in 1907. His wife, Betsy Wright, died in 1886. Both are buried in Lyme Township. Two years following the death of his first wife he married Miss Fannie E. Wright, with whom he lived 20 years before his death. John Wright, with his sons, purchased the Bellevue Bank in 1889, and reorganized it as the Wright Banking Company. Mr. Wright held the office of president until his death. John Aubrey Wright was vice president, G. A. Wright, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 951 cashier, and Hubert Wright, a director. Mr. Wright was a Republican, and associated with the Lyme Township Congregational Church. There were 10 children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wright: Alfred, who died in 1920; Josephine, who died in 1924, was the wife of John Drury ; Eliza Langan, who now lives in Cleveland ; Emma Swalley, who died in 1930; Susanna, who died at the age of 12 years ; Herbert, deceased; John Aubrey, the subject of this sketch ; Hubert, who died in 1930; Isabel, deceased; and George, who died in 1926; Demares Nye, a daughter of the second marriage, lives at Bellevue. John Aubrey Wright grew up on his father's farm in Lyme Township and attended the district schools. He attended Norwalk High School, and graduated from Western Reserve Academy, and Western Reserve University in 1880. He was appointed and served as a member of the faculty of Western Reserve Academy for nine years, and upon his return to Bellevue in 1889, he became interested in the banking and insurance business with his father, as vice president of the Wright Banking Company. At the latter's death in 1907, Mr. Wright succeeded to the presidency, and held that office continuously until Feb. 24, 1930, at which time the Bellevue Savings Bank Company and the Wright Banking Company merged as The Union Bank & Savings Company. Since 1923 he has also been interested in the general insurance business, to which he now devotes the greater part of his time. Mr. Wright was married (first) in 1890 to Miss Ella M. McKeown, of Youngstown, Ohio, the daughter of William and Miranda McKeown, both natives of Mahoning County. Mrs. Wright died in 1894 and is buried in Youngstown. She was a graduate of Smith College, and at the time of her marriage she was lady principal of Western Reserve Academy. To this union were born two children: 1. Adeline F., born in 1892, a graduate of Wellesley College, and a member of Phi Beta Kappa honorary fraternity, lives at home. 2. John A., Jr., born in 1894, a graduate of Williams College, now identified with the Guarantee Trust Company, New York City, as manager of the bond department, and recently elected as a second vice president. He married Miss Charlotte Drysdale, and they live at Montclair, N. J. He is a member of Phi Beta Kappa honorary fraternity, and Delta Upsilon fraternity. During the World War he served overseas, being discharged with the rank of first lieutenant. In 1901 Mr. Wright was married (second) to Miss Gertrude P. Wood, of Wooster, Mass., the daughter of Melvin and Helen Wood, of Bellevue. She was a graduate of Wellesley College and the Albany Library School, and before her marriage was librarian in the Wooster, Mass., Public Library. To Mr. Wright and his wife, Gertrude, were born three children: 1. Margaret, born in 1903, a graduate of Wellesley College, and the Cleve- 952 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO land Institute of Music, and now a member of the faculty of the latter institution. She married E. T. Randall, and lives in Cleveland. 2. Paul Webber, born in 1905, a graduate of Williams College, is now a Master at Groton Boys School, near Boston, Mass. He took a prominent part in athletics during his college career and served as captain of the Varsity basketball team for two years. He is a member of Phi Beta Kappa honorary fraternity, and was awarded a prize for proficiency as both a student and athlete. 3. Melvin W., born in 1911, is now a sophomore at Oberlin College. Politically, Mr. Wright has always been a Republican. For 21 years he has served as a member of the Bellevue School Board, and has been active in Y. M. C. A. work. He, for many years, served on the boards of trustees of The Harkness Memorial Hospital and the Carnegie-Stahl Library, both of Bellevue. He is a trustee of the Congregational Church and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, 32nd degree, Elks Lodge, Kiwanis Club of Bellevue, Delta Upsilon fraternity, and Phi Beta Kappa, honorary fraternity. Mr. Wright is the owner of one of the finest private libraries in North Central Ohio, and is an active member of the Bellevue Book Club. Mr. Wright has a summer home located at Chautauqua Lake, New York, and his Bellevue residence is at 806 East Main Street. John Melvin Alderfer, who is identified with the India Tire & Rubber Company, of Akron, as chairman of the board of directors, is a representative citizen of Sharon Center, Medina County, where he resides. He was born at Western Star, Summit County, Ohio, Jan. 15, 1867, the son of Frederick and Deborah (Longacre) Alderfer. The Alderfer family in Ohio is descended from Frederick Alderfer, who came to the United States from Germany in August, 1732. He settled in Montgomery County, Pa., where he secured a tract of land, part of which is still in the possession of the Alderfer family. John Melvin Alderfer, the subject of this sketch, is the sixth generation in descent from the aforementioned Frederick Alderfer. Frederick Alderfer, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Montgomery County, Pa., in 1836, and died in August, 1898. He was a retail lumberman and operated a sawmill and crate manufacturing plant near Sharon Center from 1869 until his death. March 3, 1864, he married Deborah Longacre, the daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Newcomer) Longacre, of Wadsworth, Ohio. To them were born six children. 1. Ella Catherine, born July 3, 1865, died in 1927, was the wife of Almon Trump, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 953 of Wadsworth, Ohio. 2. John Melvin, the subject of this sketch. 3. Frederick Grant, born in December, 1868, is vice president of the Trump Rubber Company, of Akron, Ohio. 4. Jacob Franklin, born Aug. 19, 1870, was an instructor in music at Oberlin College for a number of years, and during the World War served as staff secretary of the University Union in Paris, France. While thus engaged he died from illness in Paris and is buried at Wadsworth, Ohio. 5. Deborah, born Aug. 20, 1878, the widow of David Austin Grubb, who died in 1927, and she lives at Akron. 6. Pearl Permelia, born Nov. 12, 1880, the widow of William McCracken, lives at Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. John M. Alderfer was educated in the district schools of Sharon Township and as a boy was employed in his father's sawmill. At the latter's retirement from active business in 1892, Mr. Alderfer and his brother, Frederick, took complete charge of the business, which they successfully operated until 1915. In that year the plant was completely destroyed by fire, and two years later John M. Alderfer organized the India Tire & Rubber Company at Akron, Ohio. He became president of the company and held that office until 1928, when he retired and became chairman of the board of directors. He is also vice president of the Franz Foundry & Machine Company of Barberton, Ohio ; vice president of the Akron Rubber Reclaiming Company of Barberton ; vice president and director of Sharon Center Banking Company ; and a member of the finance committee of the Mogadore Savings Bank, Akron. From 1916 until 1926 the Alderfer family lived at Akron. They are now residents of Sharon Center. They live in a fine old Colonial home which was built in 1839. On July 23, 1890, Mr. Alderfer married Miss Stella S. Santee, the daughter of William H. and Emma Caroline (Stuver) Santee, of Sharon Township, both deceased. The former spent many years in the employ of the Empire Reaper and Mower Works of Akron. To Mr. and Mrs. Alderfer were born two children : Sterling William, born May 17, 1897, is assistant to the president, secretary and superintendent of purchases, India Tire & Rubber Company, lives at Akron ; and Ruth Emma, a graduate of Sharon Center High School, attended Oberlin College, and is a graduate of the College for Women, Western Reserve University. She has studied art in Paris and has taken graduate work in handicraft at Columbia University. During the World War Miss Alderfer served with the Red Cross in France. She lives at home. Mr. Alderfer is a Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Since 1917 he has taken an active interest in Y. M. C. A. work throughout the State of Ohio, and at the present time is a member of the State Committee. 954 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO John I. Appleby, M. D. One of the most prominent physicians and surgeons of Huron County is Doctor Appleby, of Bellevue. He was born four miles south of Springfield, Mo., Aug. 13, 1893, the son of Robert L. and Sadie L, (Hall) Appleby. Robert L. Appleby, deceased, was a native of Springfield, Mo., as was his wife. He died in 1920, and she resides on the old Appleby homestead in Missouri. Mr. Appleby was a farmer, the youngest of a large family. Two of his brothers served as probate judges in Missouri, and he was a grand-nephew of John Bell, who was a running mate of Stephen A. Douglass for vice president during the Civil War. Mr. Appleby was a Republican, and held membership in the Presbyterian Church. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Appleby : Mary, married D. R. Kennedy, lives at Springfield, Mo.; Maxine, who died in infancy; John I., the subject of this sketch; Christine Ann, a graduate of Ohio State University, now secretary of the Y. W. C. A. in Columbus ; Mattie Martha, who met with an accidental death at the age of 20 years, when the school in which she was teaching at Willard, Mo., was destroyed by fire ; Lucille, married H. E. Smith, lives at Springfield, Mo.; and Eunice, unmarried, lives with her mother. The boyhood of John I. Appleby was spent on the old homestead in Missouri, and he attended the rural schools. In 1911 he was graduated from Springfield High School, and then entered Park College, at Parkville, Mo., from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1915. Two years were spent in graduate work at the University of Missouri, after which Doctor Appleby took up the study of medicine. He had received the degree of Master of Arts in 1918. He spent two years as an instructor in anatomy in the Medical School, of the University of Missouri, and received the degree of Doctor of Medicine at the University of Minnesota in 1920. He served in the U. S. Army for six months at Fort Snelling, Minn. Doctor Appleby served his interneship at the City Hospital of St. Paul, Minn., and during 1921 was stationed at St. Vincent's Hospital, Toledo, Ohio. Later in that year he came to Bellevue, where he has established an excellent practice. Doctor Appleby is identified with the Sandusky County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, American Medical Association, and American Association of Anatomists, Biologists and Physiologists. On Oct. 26, 1929, Doctor Appleby was united in marriage with Miss Raugna Klippen, of Duluth, Minn., the daughter of L. J. and Christine (Hodue) Klippen, who are natives of Norway. They live at Duluth. Politically, Doctor Appleby is a Republican. He holds membership in the Methodist Church, and is affiliated with Bellevue Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 273 ; Bellevue Chapter, No. 13 ; Bellevue Council, No. 82 ; Norwalk HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 955 Commandery, No. 18 ; Zenobia Temple ; Valley of Toledo, Scottish Rite; B. P. 0. Elks ; Fraternal Order of Eagles ; and American Legion. He also belongs to the Kiwanis Club, and Sigma Xi fraternity (honorary, scientific). John I. Appleby and Isaac Hall, grandfathers of Dr. Appleby, were Civil War veterans and members of the Grand Army of the Republic. Both were pioneer settlers of southwestern Missouri. Mrs. Appleby is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and for several years served as assistant registrar at the University. She belongs to Delta Delta Delta sorority. Notes for the above biography were taken from a sketch of Doctor Appleby which appeared in the 1925 issue of "Who's Who" in American Medicine. Clyde E. Ward. Outstanding among the representative business men of Huron County is Clyde E. Ward, who is president of the C. E. Ward Company of New London. He was born at Sullivan, Ashland County, Jan. 9, 1873, the son of Jacob and Ellen (Hubler) Ward. Jacob Ward, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was a native of Wayne County and his wife was born at Sullivan, Ohio. He engaged in general farming for a number of years, and became well known as a truck gardener. Later, he located at New London, where he was identified with his son's business, the C. E. Ward Company, as vice president. He died in 1918. His wife died in 1879. Both are buried at New London. Mr. Ward was a Republican and held membership in the Methodist Church. He served during the Civil War as a member of the 25th Ohio Independent Battery, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. There were three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Ward: Rose Stilson, deceased ; Anna M. Swanger, lives at New London ; and Clyde E., the subject of this sketch. The boyhood of Clyde E. Ward was spent at Sullivan and New London, where he attended the public schools. At the age of 12 years he left school and for the following six years was employed as a clerk in a New London grocery store. He then purchased a furniture business for $300, which he successfully conducted for a few years, and during that time he also became part owner in the Junior Order Supply Company, the firm being known as Ward & Stilson Company. Mr. Ward disposed of his interest in the business to his partner in 1905 and shortly afterward organized and incorporated the present C. E. Ward Company, of which he is president. The company specializes in the manufacture of lodge and band uniforms and equipment, as well as church furnishings. 956 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Its business has grown from a $20,000 organization to a $150,000 corporation. In 1895 Mr. Ward was united in marriage with Miss Daisy Estelle White, of New London, the daughter of Daniel and Julia (Gilbert) White, natives of New York. The former died in 1913 and the latter lives at New London. To Mr. and Mrs. Ward were born five children: 1. Virginia M., born in 1896, was a student of the College for Women, Western Reserve University. She married Paul M. White, and they live in New London. They have three daughters, Nancy, born in 1922, Phyllis, born in 1924, and Virginia, born in 1928. 2. Sterling W., who is vice president of the C. E. Ward Company, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. 3. Walter, who died in infancy. 4. Alice M., born in 1910, attends Ohio Wesleyan University. 5. Rodney E., born in 1913, attends New London High School. Politically, Mr. Ward is a Republican. He and his family hold membership in the Methodist Church, and he has the following lodge affiliations : Floral Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 260 ; New London Chapter, R. A. M., No. 110 ; Norwalk Commandery, K. T., No. 10 ; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree ; Baku Grotto, M. 0. V. P. E. R.; Al Koran Temple ; Masonic Club ; Knights of Pythias, No. 616; Loyal Order of Moose, No. 513 ; Independent Order of Odd Fellows, 615 ; and B. P. 0. Elks, 730. Mr. Ward and his family have traveled extensively, having gone on a world cruise during 1925. They also traveled throughout Europe in 1927. Hobert Edwards. One of the outstanding citizens of Medina County is Hobert Edwards, who holds the responsible office of county auditor. He was born at Weymouth, Ohio, Dec. 11, 1878, the son of Robert and Martha (Waite) Train Edwards. Robert Edwards was born in Suffolk County, England, in 1832. He was a cheese maker and came to the United States with his parents in 1853. The family located in Medina County, where Robert Edwards became a prominent and highly esteemed citizen. His wife was the daughter of Samuel Train, a native of Connecticut. Hobert Edwards received his education in the public schools of Medina and was graduated from high school in 1897. He then entered the employ of the A. I. Root Company, internationally known dealers in honey. Three years later he went with Funk & Huntsberger, grocers of Medina, and in 1904 acquired an interest in that business, which relationship continued until 1907, when he retired from the firm and opened a grocery business of his own, continuing for eight years, at which time he acquired the HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 957 business of F. D. Foote. This business he sold in 1919. He later became identified with Hartman & Company. During his business career he has also been connected with the Acme Grocery Company. In November, 1926, he was elected to the office of auditor of Medina County and was reelected in November, 1930. Mr. Edwards lives with his family at 433 East Liberty Street, Medina. On June 15, 1899, Mr. Edwards was united in marriage with Miss Laura Faye Gove, the daughter of George and Helen Gove, of Medina. To this union a daughter was born, Nedra Lenore, the wife of Irwin Eastwood, who is deputy county auditor of Medina County. Laura Faye (Gove) Edwards died in January, 1910, and is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. In May, 1912, Mr. Edwards married Miss Mary L. Law, the daughter of John and Louisa Law, who live retired at Medina. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards have no children. Politically, Mr. Edwards has always been a Republican. From 1910 until 1915 he served as a member of the Medina city council. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Medina Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is affiliated with Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58 ; Morning Star Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Encampment, and the Winyah Club. He is trustee of Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. William Elmer Gates, popular postmaster of Medina, is a veteran of the World War, and a member of one of the well known families of Medina. He was born at Birmingham, Pa., Nov. 26, 1895, the son of John H. and Catherine Elizabeth (Elder) Gates. John H. Gates was born at Gatesburg, Pa., in 1864, and was a resident of Medina from 1904 until his death in April, 1916. He was employed for a period of five years by the A. I. Root Company, and served for many years as city marshal, holding that office at the time of his death. He is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. His wife was the daughter of Franklin Elder, a prosperous farmer of Center County, Pa. When William Elmer Gates was eight years old his family came to Medina, and he received his education in the public schools of this city, being a member of the high school class of 1915. He then spent a year at Akron, Ohio, in the employ of the Goodrich Rubber Company, and also a year with the Kelly Springfield Rubber Company. On June 1, 1917, he enlisted for service in the World War and was assigned to the U. S. S. Minneapolis. He served with the Navy throughout the entire war period and was engaged in transport duty. He was discharged at San Diego, Calif., June 1, 1919. Since 1922 Mr. Gates has been identified with the 958 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Medina postoffice, and in March, 1929, was named acting postmaster to succeed the postmaster, who had died in office. He was appointed postmaster in September, 1929. On Aug. 1, 1929, Mr. Gates was united in marriage with Miss Evelyn Root, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Root. Mrs. Gates' parents both died when she was a small girl. She was educated in the public schools of Medina and attended State Normal School at Emporia, Kan. Mr. Gates is a member of the Medina Congregational Church and his wife belongs to the Episcopal Church. He is a member of Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58 ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council, No. 13 ; Morning Star Lodge, No. 36, Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; American Legion ; and Kiwanis Club. He has always been a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Gates live at 463 Lafayette Street, Medina. Lyman E. Buffington is widely and favorably known throughout Medina County, where he is serving as sheriff. He was born on a farm in Armstrong County, Pa., May 28, 1878, the son of John C. and Elizabeth (Minnick) Buffington. John C. Buffington was a native of Armstrong County, Pa., born in 1846. Throughout his life he successfully engaged in general farming. He died Feb. 28, 1918, and is buried in Wadsworth Cemetery, Medina County. Elizabeth (Minnick) Buffington was the daughter of Jacob and Louisa Minnick, natives of Jefferson County, Pa., both deceased. Lyman E. Buffington spent his boyhood on his father's farm in Medina County, his parents having come to this section from Pennsylvania when he was a young boy. He attended the district schools, and as a young man became interested in farming and stockraising. Mr. Buffington became a prosperous farmer of the county and is still the owner of a well improved farm of 90 acres near Wadsworth. In 1922 he was made a foreman by the county highway department, continuing for six years in that position. He was elected to the office of sheriff of Medina County in 1928 and reelected in 1930. On Jan. 19, 1898, Mr. Buffington was married to Miss Minnie Maude Miller, the daughter of Joseph and Rebecca Miller, natives of Sharon Township, Medina County. To them were born nine children, as follows : Helen, married Homer Fiscus, lives at Wadsworth, Ohio ; Ruth, married Dwight Gerberich, lives at Akron, Ohio; Lavonne, married Wayne Kuppelberger, lives at Wadsworth ; Elvie C., married Clare House, chief deputy sheriff of Medina County; Mary, married Irwin Hileman, lives at Wads- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 959 worth, Ohio ; Maude E., employed by the A. I. Root Company, Medina ; Alice, a member of the Medina High School class of 1931; Betty June and Lyman J., both students. Although for many years identified with the Lutheran Church, Mr. and Mrs. Buffington are now members of the Medina Congregational Church. He is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Junior Order of United American Mechanics. Mr. Buffington is a Republican. He has always been an interested follower of football and baseball and is also interested greatly in music. Seymour Henry Babcock. Holding high rank in educational circles in North Central Ohio is Seymour Henry Babcock, who is superintendent of the Medina County schools. He was born near Allegan, Mich., Oct. 10, 1886, the son of Orin Henry and Anna C. (White) Babcock. Orin Henry Babcock was born at Adrian, Mich., in 1847. He engaged in the lumber business in early life, and in 1891 came to Ohio and settled in Geauga County, where he successfully followed general farming until his death in 1928. He is buried at Chardon, Ohio. His wife was the daughter of John and Mary (Fields) White, of Allegan County, Mich. Two sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Babcock : Seymour Henry, the subject of this sketch ; and Benjamin F., automobile dealer, lives at Chardon, Ohio. The early education of Seymour Henry Babcock was received in the Chardon schools, and after his graduation from high school in 1903 he engaged in teaching school for two years. He then spent one year at Oberlin College, afterward accepting the position of a township superintendent in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. Mr. Babcock took advantage of his leisure hours and took correspondence work, including a law course from the American Extension University, of Los Angeles, Calif. He also took further work at Chicago University, Cleveland School of Education, Western Reserve University, and Akron University. From 1911 until 1914 Mr. Babcock served as school superintendent at Huntsburg, Geauga County, Ohio, and from 1914 to 1919 was assistant county superintendent of the Geauga County school system. He also spent one year as superintendent of schools at Chester, Ohio, and then became assistant county superintendent of Medina County schools. In 1921 he was appointed superintendent of county schools by the Medina County Board of Education, which position he now holds. Mr. Babcock was married on May 26, 1923, to Miss Ardis M. Merrick, the daughter of Fred and Josephine Merrick. Mr. Merrick, for many 960 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO years identified with the American Tobacco Company, died in 1924, and is buried at Strongsville, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Babcock have two children : Helen and Seymour Henry, Jr. The family residence is located at 510 West Smith Street, Medina. In politics Mr. Babcock is identified with the Republican party. He holds membership in the Congregational Church, and Mrs. Babcock is a member of the Church of Christ. He is a life member of the National Educational Association. Thomas R. Neldon, who is well known throughout Knox County as the popular mayor of Danville, has been a resident of that city for the past 40 years. He was born in Coshocton County, Oct. 15, 1852, the son of George Washington and Elizabeth (Blake) Neldon. George Washington Neldon spent his entire life in Coshocton County and died at the age of 77 years. His wife died at the age of 74. Both are buried in Wilson Chapel Cemetery. Their children were: Thomas R., the subject of this sketch ; Nancy Leora, the widow of Daniel Cullison, lives at Nelly, Coshocton County ; and Orrville, lives at New Guilford, Ohio. Thomas R. Neldon attended the district schools of Coshocton County and spent his early life as a farmer. In 1890 he came to Danville, where he spent seven years in the lumber business. The next 22 years he was interested in general farming and stock raising in partnership with his brother, but maintained his residence in Danville. Since 1911 Mr. Neldon has been the proprietor of a well patronized harness and leather goods shop in Danville. Mr. Neldon has served as a member of the Danville city council for many years, and held the office of mayor of Buckeye City before its consolidation with Danville. He is now serving his third term as mayor of Danville, having been reelected to that office in November, 1929. In 1876 Mr. Neldon was united in marriage with Miss Adeline Blue, who died Sept. 12, 1929. She was the daughter of Daniel Blue, of Coshocton County. To Mr. and Mrs. Neldon were born two daughters : 1. Alice Gertrude, married Alvin Cutslip, lives at Louisville, Ky. They have a daughter, Anna Elizabeth. 2. Anna Elizabeth, married Chester Workman, lives at Danville. They have a daughter, Elinor. At the advanced age of 78 years Mr. Neldon attributes his good health and strength to the fact that he has always been temperate in his habits and has also been a diligent worker. He has a well established business and is an expert in his particular trade. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 961 John E. Wise. As vice president of the Union Bank & Savings Company, of Bellevue, Mr. Wise is widely known in banking circles throughout Huron County and North Central Ohio. He was born at Bellevue, Dec. 15, 1884, the son of E. E. and Louise (Strach) Wise. E. E. Wise spent his entire life in Bellevue, and was a carpenter by trade. He died in 1922 and is buried here. Mr. Wise was a Democrat and a member of the Reformed Church. His wife, born in Germany, Jan. 20, 1863, died in Bellevue in 1893. Three sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wise : John E., the subject of this sketch ; Herbert, lives at Greenwood, Ind. ; and Charles 0., lives at Bellevue. John E. Wise is the grandson of John Siegmund Wise, who was one of the first settlers of Bellevue. He was born at Heiderschback (near Suhl), Prussia, March 1, 1829, and emigrated to America in 1848. He immediately settled at Bellevue, where he became prosperous as a furniture maker and building contractor. He also conducted an undertaking establishment in the city during the early days. After his graduation from Bellevue High School, John E. Wise entered the employ of the former Columbus, Sandusky & Hocking Railroad, now the Columbus-Sandusky branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, in the capacity of billing clerk, working as much as 16 hours a day at a monthly salary that would be scorned by the apprentice of the present day. Later, he transferred to a more lucrative position with the local freight department of the Nickel Plate Railroad, and subsequently was employed in the general offices of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad in Cleveland, where he was rapidly winning recognition in the transportation field at the time he was induced to return to Bellevue and launch his career in the banking world. Conscientious and painstaking performance of the comparatively minor duties won reward in the form of subsequent promotions, which eventually placed Mr. Wise in the position of assistant cashier, and several years ago, subsequent to the death of G. A. Wright, advanced him to the cashier's post in the Wright Banking Company. When that institution was merged with the Bellevue Savings Bank Company as the Union Bank & Savings Company, Mr. Wise became vice president of the new institution. In 1909 Mr. Wise was united in marriage with Miss Ethel Gangler, of Bellevue, the daughter of S. P. and Lorinda J. (Estep) Gangler, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively. The former died in 1915 and the latter in 1914. They are buried in Bellevue. Mr. and Mrs. Wise have a daughter, Jane Elizabeth, born in 1918. Although his main efforts have been devoted to the promotion of the banking business, Mr. Wise has found time to devote to civic and religious endeavors, having served as a member of the city council and president 962 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO of the council, as well as on numerous civic committees ; for a period of 20 years he has been superintendent of the Sunday School at St. Paul's Reformed Church, and has successfully promoted one of the largest and most productive boys' and girls' club projects in this section of the state, the 4-H Club. Fraternally, Mr. Wise belongs to the Masonic and Elk lodges, and is a member of the Kiwanis Club, York Grange, and Retail Merchants Board. Samuel Markley Overholt. A substantial and highly esteemed citizen of Medina is Samuel Markley Overholt, who holds the office of county commissioner. He was born in Guilford Township, Medina County, Jan. 5, 1862, the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Markley) Overholt. Henry Overholt was a farmer. He was born in Berks County, Pa., Jan. 25, 1817, and came to Medina County about 1842. He was a blacksmith by trade and also engaged in general farming on a farm five miles southeast of Medina. Mr. Overholt died Dec. 28, 1874. He had married Miss Elizabeth Markley on Nov. 11, 1847. She was the daughter of Daniel Markley, a prosperous farmer of Medina County. Mrs. Overholt died Dec. 24, 1906, at the age of 79 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Overholt the following children were born: Margaret, married Lewis Loehr, both deceased ; Saloma, died in infancy ; Susan, the widow of Noah Yoder, lives at Wadsworth, Ohio ; Maria, the widow of Levi Kindig, lives at Fayette, Ohio ; Jacob, born July 5, 1854, lives retired at Blake, Medina County; Isaac, born Jan. 11, 1856, died in 1929, buried in Seville Cemetery; Joseph and Abraham, twins, born June 10, 1858, died in infancy; John, born Sept. 11, 1859, died July 8, 1892 ; Samuel M., the subject of this sketch ; Henry, born Oct. 3, 1864, retired, lives at Legita, Texas ; and Elizabeth, the widow of Alfred Houseworth, lives in California. Samuel Markley Overholt received his education in the district schools of Medina County, and in early life was a farmer. He spent nearly 40 years as a traveling salesman, 30 years of which were connected with the Arnold Wooden Ware Company, of Cleveland, Ohio, as their representative in southeastern Ohio. Mr. Overholt retired from business in 1924 and in that year was elected to the office of county commissioner in Medina County, which office he still holds. He purchased a small farm southeast of Medina in 1898 and still resides there with his family. On April 21, 1894, Mr. Overholt was united in marriage with Miss Nora Roshon, the daughter of Mannvah and Mary Ann Roshon. The former is deceased and the latter lives at Poe, Ohio. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Overholt: Rhea Leone, married Miller Geiger, lives HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 963 at Marion, Ohio ; Mary Elizabeth, married Elbert Meitzel, attorney, lives at Dayton, Ohio ; Thelma Avon, a school teacher at LeRoy, lives at home ; and Henry Arnold, road contractor, lives at home. Mr. Overholt is a Republican. He and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he belongs to the Grange and Medina County Farm Bureau. Francis Marion Plank, who is successfully engaged in the general insurance business at Medina, is a representative citizen of North Central Ohio. He was born on a farm near Ashland, Ohio, June 22, 1854, the son of Nicholas and Elizabeth (Eiseman) Plank. The genealogy of the Plank family indicates that they were of French origin, driven into Switzerland at the time of the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. The first member of this family to emigrate to America was John Plank, who came here in 1750. Nicholas Plank was born in Lancaster County, Pa., Aug. 14, 1810. He was a farmer throughout his life and settled in Ashland County, Ohio, about 1842, where he spent the remainder of his life. He died in 1897 and is buried in Lattasburg Cemetery, Wayne County, Ohio. His wife was the daughter of Jacob Eiseman, of Cornwall, Pa. They were the parents of two sons : William H., a farmer, lives near West Salem, Ohio ; and Francis Marion, the subject of this sketch. By a former marriage Nicholas Plank had five children, only one of whom survives, Mrs. Anna Plank Mohler, who lives at Cushing, Okla. Francis Marion Plank received his early education in the district schools of Ashland County. He also attended Vermillion Institute at Hayesville, Ohio, and was graduated from Ashland College in 1881. Later, he was awarded the degree of Master of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea, Ohio. Mr. Plank began his teaching career at the age of 17 years, and taught in the country schools of Ashland County. From 1884 until 1888 he was principal of an Akron, Ohio, school, and from 1888 until 1902 was superintendent of the public schools of Wadsworth, Ohio. In 1902 Mr. Plank was elected probate judge of Medina County and served in that capacity until 1909. The following year he purchased an interest in a retail shoe store in Medina, which was successfully operated under the firm name of Yoder & Plank. He was elected as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives from this district in 1911 and served until 1915. Mr. Plank was also fuel director of Medina County during the World War period and was chairman of the "four-minute" speakers. He had disposed of his interest in the shoe business in 1915 and at that 964 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO time established an insurance agency in Medina, which he now conducts. Mr. Plank handles general insurance, with the exception of life insurance. He has offices in the Gazette Building. On Jan. 1, 1884, Mr. Plank was united in marriage with Miss Emma M. Miller, the daughter of George and Christina (Kiplinger) Miller, of Nova, Ashland County, Ohio. They have no children. Mr. Plank is a Republican in politics. He is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is affiliated with Wadsworth Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 389 ; and Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 50. He is also a member of the Archaeological and Historical Society of Ohio, and has been secretary of the Medina County Agricultural Society since 1917. Mr. and Mrs. Plank live at 582 South Court Street, Medina. Charles Homer Bricker, who is city engineer, is well and favorably known in Medina. He was born at Cleveland, Ohio, Nov. 12, 1896, the son of Martin Luther and Harriet Roland (Leininger) Bricker. Martin Luther Bricker was born at Schimpstown, Pa., March 16, 1862. He was an iron moulder by trade and came to Medina in 1915. He is now retired. His wife is the daughter of George S. Leininger, of Canton, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Bricker were born seven children, as follows : Paul E., lives at Michigan City, Ind. ; Dwight E., lives at Chatham, Ohio ; Carl R., lives at Chatham, Ohio ; Millard B., lives at Canton, Ohio ; Nina C., lives at Chatham, Ohio ; Lucile E., married Dr. H. J. C. Scherer, lives at Los Angeles, Calif. ; and C. H., the subject of this sketch. The early education of Charles Homer Bricker was received in the public schools of Cleveland and he was graduated from Chardon (Ohio) High School. He also studied at Cleveland College and took short engineering courses at Akron University, as well as a public speaking course at the Fenn College, Medina. At the age of 19 years Mr. Bricker entered the employ of the William H. Evers Engineering Company. He has been identified with such firms as the Ralph Hecker Engineering Company, John Gill & Son, and Boldt-Law Construction Company. In 1920, in partnership with his four brothers, Mr. Bricker became interested in the leasing, drilling and production of oil and gas in Ohio and Indiana, under the firm name of Bricker Brothers. This business continued for a period of five years, and in 1925 Mr. Bricker came to Medina and entered the employ of the county surveyor as tax map draftsman and later became bridge engineer and deputy county surveyor. He was appointed city engineer of Medina in the spring of 1930. Mr. Bricker was married on Aug. 17, 1926, to Miss Eva Harriet Carlton, the daughter of Wilber C. and Cora Carlton, of Chatham, Ohio. They HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 965 have two children : Malcolm Stuart, born Feb. 17, 1929 ; and Miriam Elaine. Politically, Mr. Bricker is a Republican. His wife holds membership in the United Brethren Church, and he belongs to Litchfield Lodge, No. 381, F. & A. M. ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30; Wooster Council, No. 13 ; and American Legion. Clarence Don Rickard is a veteran of the World War and a representative young business man of Medina, where he is interested in the general insurance business, with offices at 107 South Liberty Street. He was born at Chippewa Lake, Ohio, Feb. 11, 1891, the son of Isaac H. and Caroline (Kennedy) Rickard. Isaac H. Rickard was born in Bucks County, Pa., Aug. 8, 1850, and was a small child when his parents came to Ohio and settled in Medina County. He became a farmer. He married Miss Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of George and Sarah Kennedy, of Medina. George Kennedy, who died while in service during the Civil War, was a prosperous farmer of Medina County. Seven children were born to Isaac H. and Caroline (Kennedy) Rickard : Inza, married Manley S. Clark, who is principal of schools at Massillon, Ohio ; Charles, lives at Chardon, Ohio; Delbert H., who is treasurer of the Henry Furnace & Foundry Company, Cleveland, Ohio; Edith, married Ellis H. Williams, lives at Sterling, Ill. ; Howard I., and Stanley B., who live at Medina ; and Clarence D., the subject of this sketch. Clarence D. Rickard attended the public schools of Medina County and after his graduation form Medina High School in 1911 he entered the employ of a furniture and undertaking establishment in Medina. He was associated with that firm until 1918 and at that time volunteered for service in the World War, being sent to Camp Sherman, Ohio. He went to France in June, 1918, and participated in many important battles of the war, including Chatteau Thierry and St. Mihiel. On Oct. 23, 1918, he was severely wounded in action, and was not discharged from the service until April 7, 1920, then being ranked as a casual. Upon his return to Medina, Mr. Rickard spent six years in the employ of the Medina County National Bank, and in 1926 engaged in the insurance business in this city. Mr. Rickard was married on Feb. 22, 1922, to Miss Ilah Jenne, the daughter of Harvey and Allie Jenne, of Litchfield, Ohio. They have no children. Mr. Rickard is a Republican, a member of the Congregational Church, and belongs to Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58 ; Medina Chapter, R. A. 966 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council, No. 30 ; Akron Commandery, No. 25 ; Knights of Pythias ; and American Legion. He also is a member of the Winyah Club. Clark Pearson Dickerman, who lives retired at Medina, is a representative citizen of Medina County, where he has lived for many years. He was born in Summit County, Ohio, Aug. 6, 1859, the son of Orlando and Elizabeth (Pearson) Dickerman. Orlando Dickerman was a carpenter and farmer. He was born in Summit County, Ohio, Nov. 15, 1826. The family came to Medina County about 1871 and settled on a farm one mile west of York Center in York Township. Mr. Dickerman owned and operated this farm until his retirement in 1897. He died Feb. 15, 1914, and is buried in York Cemetery. His wife, the daughter of Arsa and Achsah (Lampson) Pearson, died in 1903. Mr. and Mrs. Dickerman were the parents of the following children: Myra, who died at the age of 10 years ; Clark Pearson, the subject of this sketch ; and Henry Clement, born Jan. 26, 1869, retired, lives at Atco, N. J. Clark Pearson Dickerman grew up on his father's farm in Medina County and received his education in the district schools. He taught school for two years and then assisted his father in farming until 1883, at which time he purchased a small farm in York Township, which he still owns. Mr. Dickerman met with marked success in his farming activities and became well known as a breeder of pure bred Jersey cattle and Berkshire hogs. His farm is now operated by his son, Charles Edwin Dickerman. Mr. Dickerman retired from farming in November, 1917, and came to Medina, where he spent five years in the employ of the A. I. Root Company. In 1922 he purchased a grocery store near the Root plant, and successfully conducted this business for seven years. He has since lived retired. The family residence is located at 131 North Huntington Street. On Aug. 31, 1881, Mr. Dickerman married Miss Mary Elizabeth Branch, the daughter of Levi and Mary Ann (Bowen) Branch, of Medina County. They have two children : Charles Edwin, born Aug. 26, 1883, married on June 20, 1908, to Miss Bertha Seeley, of York Township, Medina County; and Bessie, who is the wife of C. G. Bohley, a farmer, lives west of Medina. Mr. Dickerman is a Republican, a member of the Pentecostal Church, and belongs to the Medina County Grange. He is widely known throughout the community as a successful breeder of giant White Flemish hares, and his attractive flower gardens are numbered among the beauty spots of the city. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 967 Albert H. Fretter. One of the leading citizens of Medina is Albert H. Fretter, who is superintendent of the city water works. He is a native of Medina County, born in York Township, Sept. 27, 1879, the son of Joseph H. and Hannah (Glace) Fretter. Joseph H. Fretter, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Medina County in 1843. Throughout most of his life Mr. Fretter engaged in the painting and contracting business and was well known as an interior decorator. He served throughout the Civil War as a member of Company K, 103rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was severely wounded in action. He was married in 1866 to Miss Hannah Glace, of Medina County. To them were born six children, as follows : Charles S., lives in Medina ; Mary, married Frank Brant, who is state grain inspector for the State of Minnesota, lives at Minneapolis ; Lillie, married George Burkett, lives in Medina County; Nellie, died at the age of 11 years ; Luther, who died in 1916 at the age of 24 years ; and Albert H., the subject of this sketch. Albert H. Fretter attended the public schools of Medina, and was graduated from Medina High School in 1899. He spent one year in the employ of the Bartlett Electrical Company, of Cleveland, and six months with the North Electrical Company, manufacturers of telephone instruments and apparatus. Upon his return to Medina in 1901 Mr. Fretter spent 16 years with the A. I. Root Company. He became a licensed engineer, and was also identified with the company's printing plant. Mr. Root was an official of the Anti-Saloon League and was instrumental in sending Mr. Fretter to Westerville, where he spent one year in charge of the pressroom of the publishing department of the Anti-Saloon League. He has been connected with the city administration of Medina as superintendent of the water works since 1919 and has proven a most capable official. During the Spanish-American War Mr. Fretter served as a member of Company G, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was present at the battle of San Juan Hill. In 1902 Mr. Fretter was united in marriage with Miss Emma Bowman, the daughter of John and Wilhelmina Bowman, of Abbeyville, Ohio, both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Fretter have a daughter, Mabel, who is the wife of Harold M. White, of New Kensington, Pa. He is a pathologist and is connected with a New Kensington hospital. Politically, Mr. Fretter is independent. His wife holds membership in the German Lutheran Church, and he belongs to Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council No. 13 ; Kiwanis Club ; Medina Gun & Rifle Club ; and Medina County Fish & Game Club. He is numbered among the county's leading fishermen and spends 968 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO his vacations following his favorite sport in Canada. He is also extensively interested in photography. Mr. Fretter has been identified with the Medina County Community Fire Department, which was organized by him and W. F. Wise in 1926. This outfit serves not only Medina but surrounding territory in the county. Mr. Fretter also was chief engineer of the Municipal Fire Department for a period of 12 years. He has been identified with the Medina Municipal Band for 31 years as drum major. T. J. Remington. One of the leading lawyers of Knox County and one of the most representative citizens of North Central Ohio is T. J. Remington, of Danville. He was born in Holmes County, Ohio, Oct. 5, 1858, the son of William H. and Mary (McKenzie) Remington. William H. Remington was born in Rhode Island, the son of Oliver M. and Margaret Remington, who were among the first settlers of Richland Township, Holmes County. Oliver M. Remington taught a subscription school and was well informed in the law, being recognized as a leader in all matters in the community. The Remington farm in Richland Township contained 200 acres of land. To William H. and Mary (McKenzie) Remington were born ten children : 1. Oliver M., lives at Ashland, and is 85 years of age. 2. C. D., lives at Lucas, Ohio, and is 84 years of age. 3. Taylor, who died in Holmes County at the age of 70 years. 4. Margaret, married Cyrus L. Thompson, lives at Danville. 5. Joseph C., who died in 1901. 6. Sally, who died in 1919, was the wife of Shaffer Parsons. 7. T. J., the subject of this sketch. 8. Mary Jane, married Barney Starner, deceased. 9. Ellsworth, who died in infancy. 10. Lydia, married J. I. Mizer, lives at Danville. Thomas J. Remington attended the district schools of Richland Township, Holmes County. He also was a student at Smithville Academy and attended normal school at Millersburg, Ohio, and Northwestern University. Mr. Remington taught school for eight years in Ashland and Holmes counties, and was principal of the Jeromesville schools during 1882-83. Mr. Remington was admitted to the Ohio bar in June, 1884, and engaged in the practice of law at Spencerville, Ohio, until 1895. He then located at Kenton, Ohio, until December, 1899, at which time he removed to Geddes, S. D., where he remained until 1907. He spent the following three years in practice at Roger, Ark., and while located there enjoyed the close friendship of the noted humorist and writer, Thomas W. Morgan. Mr. Remington became widely known as a public speaker and platform orator, and the celebrated W. L. Finley of the Hardin County Ken- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 969 ton Press remarked in his column that Mr. Remington had made more speeches during 1896-99 at the request of different organizations than any other speaker he knew of. While located at Charles, Mix County, S. D., Mr. Remington was elected state's attorney, and served in that capacity for two years. He has held the office of mayor of Jeromesville and Danville. Mr. Remington has been a resident of Danville since 1914. In May, 1883, Mr. Remington married Miss Celestia Jackson, who died Oct. 25, 1929. She is buried in the Workman Cemetery. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Remington were : 1. Bernice, married Roy C. Smith, lives at Jeromesville. 2. Roscoe C., lives at Mt. Morris, Ill. He is interested in the publishing business and is manager of the Spaulding Publications, Plain Talk, and other publications. 3. John W., lives at Brooklyn, N. Y., where he is employed by the Western Electric Company. 4. Joseph F., lives at Akron, Ohio, where he is identified with the Remington Fiber Products Company. 5. Asa B., born in 1895, died in 1920. He was a veteran of the World War, having served in the U. S. Navy. He died while attending Leland Stanford University. Mr. Remington's years of teaching still reflect added joys to his work as an attorney. Hundreds of pupils whom he has taught in many Ohio towns frequently call on him and remind him of the inspiration which they received as his pupils. Mr. Remington is a Democrat in politics, being the only member of his family of that political conviction. From 1900 to 1903 he established the Geddes Record, a weekly Democratic paper at Geddes, S. D. In Herrick, S. D., in 1905, he established the Herrick News, and for two years was the editor and publisher. In Danville, Ohio, in 1914 he established the Twin City News, which he published for four years. All of these were creditable journalistic efforts. Rolland Lynn Mansell, M. D. One of the capable young physicians and surgeons of Medina County is Rolland Lynn Mansell, who is successfully engaged in practice at Medina, with offices at 212 South Broadway. He was born at Warren, Ohio, Dec. 16, 1899, the son of John B. and Jessie (Lynn) Mansell. John B. Mansell is a native of Mahoning County, Ohio, and at the present time is a resident of Ravenna, Ohio, where he is well known as a retail lumber dealer. Until 1912 he engaged in general farming in Mahoning County. To Mr. and Mrs. Mansell were born two sons : Rolland Lynn, the subject of this sketch ; and Darrel Lee, born March 16, 1905. 970 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Rolland Lynn Mansell attended the district schools in Warren and Ravenna, and in 1917 was graduated from Ravenna High School. He then entered Hiram College, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1921. His medical work was taken at the University of Pennsylvania, where he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1925. Doctor Mansell's interneship was spent at City Hospital and Lutheran Hospital, Cleveland, and after a brief connection with the clinical department of Drs. Yarian and Chamberlain, Cleveland, he engaged in private practice in Medina in 1927. He has already established an excellent practice and is recognized as a leader in his chosen profession. On Sept. 7, 1928, Doctor Mansell married Miss Kathryn Shryock, the daughter of Charles and Harriet Shryock. Mr. Shryock died in 1927, and his widow lives at Zanesville, Ohio. He was well known as the editor and owner of a Zanesville newspaper. Doctor Mansell is a Republican, a member of the Disciple Church, and belongs to Phi Alpha Sigma fraternity. He is identified with the Cleveland Academy of Medicine, Medina County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. Lewis Hays Randall. One of Medina's outstanding business men and influential citizens is Lewis Hays Randall, who is the representative for the New York Life Insurance Company in Medina County, with offices in the Hobart Building. He was born in Gratiot County, Mich., Aug. 9, 1876, the son of Stephen H. and Lenah (Johnson) Randall. Stephen H. Randall was born in Medina County, April 10, 1852, and for many years has been widely known in this section as a veterinary surgeon. He is the son of Anson Randall, who came to Medina County when only nine years of age with his parents, Stephen and Phoebe (Wood) Randall. The family settled in Medina County in 1832, having come here from Susquehanna County, Pa., although natives of Saybrook, Middlesex County, Conn. Anson Randall, at the age of 18 years, was obliged to take charge of his father's 70-acre farm. In 1844 he married Elizabeth Jamison, the daughter of Samuel Jamison, a native Of Canada. To them were born five children, three of whom grew to maturity: Stephen H., father of the subject of this sketch ; Minerva; and Lewis G. Elizabeth (Jamison) Randall died in 1863, and Anson Randall later married Maria Zimmerman. He subsequently became widely known as an importer and breeder of Spanish Merino sheep. Stephen H. Randall married Miss Lenah Johnson, the daughter of Stephen K. Johnson, a farmer of Gratiot County, Mich. They were the HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 971 parents of two sons: Lewis Hayes, the subject of this sketch ; and Aubert A., contractor, lives in Spencer Township, Medina County. The early education of Lewis Hayes Randall was obtained in the II schools of Medina, and he was graduated from Medina High School in 1896. He taught school for a period of ten years and then attended Ohio State University, where he studied agriculture. Mr. Randell owned and operated the Oviatt Farm, just north of Medina, and for several years was also field man for the Medina County Creamery. In 1912 he became a special representative for the New York Life Insurance Company, with offices in Medina, and he has continued as a representative of the company, being a member of the $250,000.00 Club. Membership in this group is limited to representatives who write that volume or more of business annually. On Oct. 30, 1900, Mr. Randall was united in marriage with Miss Bessie J. Oviatt, the daughter of Clarence and Julia (Viall) Oviatt, of Medina. Mr. Oviatt is deceased, and his widow lives at 232 North Court Street. To Mr. and Mrs. Randall was born a daughter, Margaret B., who is the wife of William F. Santelmann, concert master in the United States Marine Band, Washington, D. C. She is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music, Boston, Mass., both in piano and organ, and before her marriage was a teacher of music at National Park Seminary, Washington, D. C. Politically, Mr. Randall is a Republican, and in 1928 was alternate delegate to the Republican National Convention at Kansas City. He and his wife hold membership in the Congregational Church, and he is active in Sunday school work both as superintendent and teacher. He has the following lodge and club affiliations : Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 50 ; Wooster Council; Akron Commandery, K. T., No. 25; Tadmor Shrine, Akron ; Valley of Lake Erie Consistory, 32nd degree ; Knights of Pythias ; Kiwanis Club ; and Wooster Country Club. He is a vice president and director of the Medina County Y. M. C. A. and a member of the National Council of Y. M. C. A. He is also president of the Medina Board of Education, president of the Medina County Board of Health. In 1898 Mr. Randall enlisted in the U. S. Army and was detailed by the U. S. Government on special replacement work in the hospital corps in connection with the Spanish-American War, and continued in that work for one year, being discharged Feb. 23, 1899. During the period of the World War he was serving as mayor of Medina, was county food administrator, chief of the American Protective League, chief of the Council of National Defense, and chairman of Red Cross and United War Work drives. 972 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO John White Kemp. As manager of the Medina plant of the Henry Furnace & Foundry Company, Mr. Kemp is numbered among the city's substantial and well known citizens. He was born in Licking County, Ohio, Dec. 7, 1869, the son of John White and Anna Sarah (George) Kemp. John White Kemp. Sr., was born in Ottawa County, Ohio, in 1844. Throughout his life he engaged in the general mercantile business at Newark, Ohio, and he died in that city in 1915. His wife was born in Licking County, Ohio. There were three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Kemp : Alice, married Daniel Davis, lives at Newark, Ohio ; Rosa, married Charles Holland, lives at Newark, Ohio ; and John White, Jr., the subject of this sketch. John White Kemp obtained his education in the public schools of Newark and was graduated from high school in 1887. He then went as an apprentice under John Stuart, of the Kibler Iron Foundry, and later was with the Werley Foundry for a period of four years. In 1895 he went west and was connected with the Kibler Iron Foundry of Denver, Colo. Two years later, however, he returned to Newark and soon was active in the organization of a foundry at Daleville, Ind., with which he was identified until 1900. He spent the next 20 years with the Globe Stove & Range Company, of Kokomo, Ind., and in 1920 he became identified with the Henry Furnace & Foundry Company, of Cleveland, as manager of the Medina plant, in which capacity he now serves. On July 1, 1892, Mr. Kemp was married to Miss Nellie Doris Fately, the daughter of David and Hannah Fately, of Newark, Ohio, both deceased. They have a daughter, Grace Helen, who lives at home. Politically, Mr. Kemp is independent. He is a member of the Church of Christ Scientist, and belongs to Howard Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 93 ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Kokomo Council, No. 60 ; Kokomo Cornmandery, K. T., No. 36; Lake Erie Consistory, 32nd degree ; and Al Koran Temple. He is also a member of the Kiwanis Club and Winyah Club, and is president of the Medina Automobile Club. Glenn Harold Mummaw, well known Doctor of Drugless Therapy, with offices on West Side Square, is an outstanding citizen of Medina. He was born at Poe, Medina County, Sept. 15, 1895, the son of Frank L. and Mary C. (Kindig) Mummaw. Frank L. Mummaw is a native of Lancaster County, Pa., born April 2, 1865. He engaged in general farming and stock raising during his active career and now lives retired at Medina. His wife is the daughter of Jonathan and Leanah Kindig, natives of Medina County. To Mr. and HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 973 Mrs. Mummaw were born two sons : Glenn Harold, the subject of this sketch ; and Edwin, born Nov. 12, 1900, who died in Cincinnati, Ohio, during the World War while in service. Glenn Harold Mummaw attended the public schools of Poe and Medina and in 1912 entered the American School of Osteopathy at Kirksville, Mo., from which he received the degree of Doctor of Osteopathy in June, 1916. In September, 1917, he entered Wagner's School of Ophthalmology, from which he was graduated in May, 1918. Doctor Mummaw then established offices at Sikeston, Mo., and remained in that location until July, 1919, when he returned to Ohio and located in Medina. In September, 1922, he entered the Akron College of Chiropractic, and completed the course at that institution in June, 1923. During 1926 he studied at the Blodgett School of Chiropractic and Electro-Therapy in Cleveland, and in 1928 took another graduate course in Mechano-therapy in Cleveland. Doctor Mummaw has an extensive practice throughout the county and specializes in nervous afflictions and abnormalities of vision, his treatments being entirely devoid of drugs. On Aug. 18, 1926, Doctor Mummaw was united in marriage with Mrs. Sadie Hamlin, the daughter of David Bobb, of North Baltimore, Ohio. By her former marriage Mrs. Mummaw has two sons, Howard and Kenneth. The family residence is at 128 West Homestead Street, Medina. Dr. and Mrs. Mummaw hold membership in the Medina Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is affiliated with Kirksville Lodge, A. F. & A. M., No. 105 ; Missouri Consistory, St. Louis, 32nd degree ; Moolah Temple, St. Louis. Doctor and Mrs. Mummaw are members of the Eastern Star. Politically, Doctor Mummaw is a Republican. William Benson Baldwin. As editor of the Medina County Gazette, Mr. Baldwin is recognized as one of the outstanding newspaper men of North Central Ohio. He was born at Akron, Ohio, Feb. 20, 1869, the son of James N. and Augusta (Eldred) Baldwin. James Baldwin was born at Medina, Feb. 22, 1839, the son of Rev. Benson C. Baldwin, who was a minister of the Presbyterian Church, and founder of the First Presbyterian Church at Akron, Ohio. Later, Reverend Baldwin was stationed at Medina, where his son, James N., was born. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Benson C. Baldwin returned with her children to Summit County, Ohio, where James engaged in the milling business for a number of years. He married Miss Augusta Eldred, the daughter of Akin and Lydia (Hamilton) Eldred. Akin Eldred was the captain of one of the first boats operated on the old Ohio Canal and 974 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO was a picturesque figure of the early days of navigation. To James N. and Augusta (Eldred) Baldwin were born two children: William Benson, the subject of this sketch ; and Harriet B., the widow of John Durham, who died in 1897, and she lives at Pasadena, Calif. William Benson Baldwin received his education in the public schools of Akron, Ohio, from which he was graduated in 1886. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Buchtel College, now the University of Akron, in 1891, and for many years was a member of the Board of Trustees of that institution. He resigned as trustee in 1915, at which time he removed to Medina. As a boy of 15 years, Mr. Baldwin manifested an unusual interest in newspaper work and was the publisher of a paper called the "Amateur Press." He also became president of the Buckeye Amateur Press Association, a state organization, and was corresponding secretary and official editor of the National Amateur Press Association. He began his professional career as a cub reporter on the Akron Daily Beacon, now the Beacon-Journal, and during his college career was the founder of the "Buchtelite," a college publication, which has since developed from a monthly publication to a weekly paper. In 1910 Mr. Baldwin left the Akron Beacon-Journal as editor-in-chief, and at that time was appointed postmaster of the city of Akron by President Taft, which office he successfully filled until December, 1914. He then became a member of the tax assessing board of Summit County by appointment of Governor Cox. In 1915 he organized a corporation which purchased the Medina County Gazette, which is numbered among the oldest and best known newspapers of Ohio, having enjoyed a steady publication since 1832. On July 15, 1903, Mr. Baldwin was united in marriage with Miss Leonora A. Martin, the daughter of J. W. and Caroline Martin of Medina. Mr. Martin died in 1928 and is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery. Mrs. Baldwin, before her marriage and for several years thereafter, was widely known as an accomplished vocalist and has been active in connection with church music in New York City, Cleveland, and Akron. To Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin have been born the following children: Helen, educated in Lake Erie College at Painesville and the University of Akron, now associated in newspaper work with her father in Medina ; Martin H., born Oct. 30, 1906, who attended Ohio State University, was for some time a member of the advertising staff of the Akron Beacon-Journal and now also associated with his father on the Gazette ; Neal S., born Jan. 19, 1910, attends Case School of Applied Science, Cleveland ; and James E., born Oct. 13, 1912, attends Trinity College, Hartford, Conn. The three sons are all graduates of Howe School, at Howe, Ind. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 975 Mr. Baldwin has always been a Republican. He has been a member of the Republican State Central Committee of the 14th Congressional District of Ohio. All members of the Baldwin family hold membership in the Church of Our Saviour (Episcopal), of Akron, Ohio, Mr. Baldwin being junior warden of the church. Mr. Baldwin has been active in Masonic circles since he was 25 years of age, and is Past Master of Adoniram Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 517; Past High Priest of Washington Chapter, R. A. M., No. 25 ; Past Thrice Illustrious Master of Akron Council, R. & S. M., No. 80 ; Past Commander of Akron Commandery, K. T., No. 25; Past President of the Akron Masonic Club ; and has served through all the chairs of the Grand Commandery of Ohio Knights Templar, being Grand Commander in 1918 and for six years Grand Prelate of the Grand Commandery. He also belongs to the Valley of Lake Erie Consistory of Cleveland and was honored with the 33rd degree in 1928. He is now Most Wise Master of Ariel Chapter of Rose Croix, and is also a member of the Tadmore Shrine of Akron and the Red Cross of Constantine. Mr. Baldwin is a member of the Knights of Pythias, of the Sons of the American Revolution, and Sons of Veterans, of which he served for one year as captain of the Akron Camp. Brady Watson Hammett, who is identified with the Ohio Fuel & Gas Company, is a well known and substantial citizen of Medina. He was born at Belmont, W. Va., April 4, 1876, the son of Samuel G. and Mary D. (Sharp) Hammett. Samuel G. Hammett was born near Belmont, W. Va., Aug. 31, 1840, and died April 5, 1918. Throughout his life he was a farmer. He was married in December, 1872, to Miss Mary D. Sharp, the daughter of George A. and Drucilla (Jamieson) Sharp, of West Virginia. Mrs. Hammett died in July, 1918. Both she and her husband are buried at St. Marys, W. Va. Their children were : Frank A., oil producer, lives at St. Marys, W. Va.; Brady Watson, the subject of this sketch ; William H., oil producer, lives at Olney, Texas ; Laura Bell, married Thomas C. Mercer, lives at St. Marys, W. Va. As a boy Brady Watson Hammett worked in the oil fields of West Virginia. He received his education in the public schools of Belmont, and began his career at the age of 18 years as a rig builder in the oil fields near Belmont. After two years he went to Sistersville, W. Va., as an independent contractor and rig builder and continued there for three years. He then came to Woodsfield, Ohio, as an oil well contractor and remained in that locality until 1916, at which time he removed to Perrys- 976 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO ville, Ashland County, Ohio, as a driller of deep wells. In 1918 Mr. Hammett entered the employ of the Ohio Fuel & Gas Company at Medina. He lives at 423 East Washington Street. On Oct. 23, 1901, Mr. Hammett was united in marriage with Miss Ada M. Jones, the daughter of Adelbert and Margaret Jones, of Woodsfield, Ohio. They have three daughters : Laurene, married Joseph P. Heile, lives at Cleveland, Ohio ; Helen, bookkeeper, Ohio Fuel & Gas Company, lives at home ; and Jeanette, attends school in Medina. Mr. Hammett is a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to Monroe Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 189, Woodsfield ; Barnesville Chapter, R. A. M., No. 69 ; and Bellaire Council, No. 87. Ransom C. Baker was born in a log cabin near New Castle, Coshocton County, Ohio, on March 24, 1894. When he was seven years of age his parents moved to a farm near Walhonding, Ohio, where they remained one year. From here they removed to Danville, Ohio. Mr. Baker graduated from the Danville-Buckeye City High School in 1912. Following a summer term at Wooster College, he taught the intermediate grades of his home town for one year. In the fall of 1913 he enrolled in the Ohio State University and was graduated in the spring of 1916 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. After a post graduate course at Ohio Northern University, Mr. Baker taught history and English in the Rudolph, Wood County, High School. The fall of 1917 found him engaged as principal of the Brimfield, Portage County, High School. The war was gathering momentum and on Oct. 3, 1917, Mr. Baker enlisted as a private in Company B, 324th Mg. Bn., 166th Brigade, 83rd Div., and was sent to Camp Sherman. In November he was promoted to corporal and in April, 1918, he became a sergeant. While at Camp Sherman he became an instructor in chemical warfare and served his company as Gas N. C. 0. until the division went to France. In May, 1918, the 83rd Division left Camp Sherman and after spending two weeks in Camp Merritt, N. J., embarked June 12th at Hoboken, N. J. The 324th Mg. Bn. sailed on the British ship, Corsican, arriving in Liverpool, England, on the 23rd of June. On the 29th Sergeant Baker crossed the English Channel on the "Caeserea" and disembarked at Cherbourg, France, June 30th. After attending the Second Corps Military School at Chatillon-Sur-Seine, Sergeant Baker was placed on detached service and served as an instructor in machine gun and chemical warfare. His duties carried him over a considerable portion of France, including Le Mans, Tours, Orleans, Chartres, Troyes, Paris and the Marne HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 977 Valley. In November, Sergeant Baker passed the examinations for a lieutenancy in the chemical warfare service but the commission was withheld because of the armistice. Sailing from Brest, France, on the English boat, "Adriatic," a skeleton of the original machine gun battalion arrived at Camp Mills, N. Y., from thence they came back to Camp Sherman and were mustered out of the service on Feb. 15, 1919. March 1st of the same year Mr. Baker became assistant cashier of the Danville Bank, where he remained one year. March 1, 1920, he entered The Knox County Savings Bank, Mt. Vernon, as assistant cashier. In 1927 he became cashier. Mr. Baker is past commander of Dan C. Stone, Jr., Post of the American Legion at Mt. Vernon. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Masonic Lodge, Methodist Episcopal Church, Ohio State Archaeological and Historical Society, secretary-treasurer of the Knox County Memorial Building, trustee and a director of the Y. M. C. A. Retaining his interest in military affairs, Mr. Baker holds the rank of captain in the Officers Reserve Corps. Knox and Coshocton County stock constitute the heritage of Mr. Baker. His great-grandfather, John Baker, served in a Knox County company during the War of 1812 and his grandfather, Simon Baker, enrolled in Mt. Vernon for the Mexican War in 1846. His father, Simon Baker, was born in Butler Township, Knox County, in 1862. In early life he was a farmer and later operated a hotel and livery business in Danville until the time of his death. He died at Martinsburg, Ohio, in 1906. His widow resides in Mt. Vernon with her son. She is the daughter of Ransom Neldon, a native of Coshocton County. Three sons were born to Simon and Jennie (Neldon) Baker: Russell, who resides in New York City; Dwight, who died in infancy ; and R. C. Baker, the subject of this sketch. June 30, 1925, Mr. Baker married Miss Gladys Hadley, who for a number of years taught mathematics in the local high school. She is the daughter of Fred G. and Eyrie (Winegarden) Hadley, of Mt. Vernon. Mrs. Baker is a graduate of The Ohio Wesleyan University. She is active in the College Women's Club and the Methodist Episcopal Church. The officers of The Knox County Savings Bank are: B. D. Herron, president ; H. S. Workman, vice president ; R. C. Baker, cashier. The directors are: B. D. Herron, H. S. Workman, C. G. Conley, R. M. Lamb, J. W. Rudin, and George Israel. Samuel H. Israel was the founder of The Knox County Savings Bank in 1873 and served as its cashier from that date until 1909. He was president from 1909 until 1918. Jared Sperry was its first president, 1873 until 1886. From 1886 until 1904 General G. A. Jones served as presi- 978 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO dent. The interim of 1904 to 1909 shows no president as the cashier absorbed the duties of president. James Israel served as president from 1918 until 1922, from which date B. D. Herron assumed the office. Mr. Herron had previously served as cashier from 1909. In 1905 the deposits of The Knox County Savings Bank had increased to half a million dollars. On June 30, 1930, the bank statement showed total resources of $1,906,360.56; with a capital stock of $150,000 and surplus and undivided profits of $116,000. Emanuel Henry Tinstman. One of the highly successful young business men of Medina is Emanuel Henry Tinstman, a veteran of the World War, who is engaged in the electrical business in this city. He was born at Medina, March 3, 1896, the son of Eugene G. and Emma (Richard) Tinstman. Eugene G. Tinstman was born in Medina County, Jan. 30, 1871. For many years he has been recognized as one of the leading auctioneers of this section of Ohio. He married Miss Emma Richard, the daughter of Daniel and Lavina Richard, both natives of Medina County. Mr. and Mrs. Tinstman were the parents of the following children: Lotta, the widow of Roy Beidle, who died in April, 1920 ; Fern, married Ellis Scharch, who is a chemist for the Goodrich Tire & Rubber Company, Akron, Ohio; Daniel, lives at Madisonburg, Ohio ; and Emanuel Henry, the subject of this sketch. Emanuel Henry Tinstman grew up in Medina and attended the public schools, being a member of the 1915 high school class. He was employed for a time by the Portage Rubber Company, Akron, and in 1917 enlisted for service in the World War, being sent to France as a member of the 114th Ammunition Train. He saw active service in France from Aug. 12, 1918, until the close of the war and returned to the United States in January, 1919. He resumed his former employment with the Portage Rubber Company and the following year established an electrical business in Medina, in partnership with his father, as representatives of the Delco Light Company. In 1920 Mr. Tinstman purchased the interests of his father, and has since continued as sole owner of the enterprise. He is the local dealer and distributor for the General Motors products, including the Frigidaire. He also handles radios. Mr. Tinstman was married on Nov. 16, 1921, to Miss Zola Turner, the daughter of William and Pearl Turner, of Medina. They have a son, Richard, born Oct. 12, 1922. Politically, Mr. Tinstman is a Republican, and he is a member of the Republican County Central Committee. Both he and his wife are mem- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 979 bers of Medina Methodist Episcopal Church, and he belongs to Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58 ; Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; Knights of Pythias ; and American Legion. He also belongs to the Medina County Fish & Game Club. Edward Clark Gibbs. One of Medina's most representative young business men is Edward Clark Gibbs, who is identified with the Gibbs Motor Company, local distributors of Chevrolet automobiles. He is also a veteran of the World War. Mr. Gibbs was born at Brunswick, Ohio, June 15, 1893, the son of Farnum Henry and Ellen L. (Blakeslee) Gibbs. Farnum Henry Gibbs was born on a farm in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Sept. 12, 1858. He was the son of Farnum M. Gibbs, who was widely known throughout this section of the country as a minister of the Christian Church. He was born about 1834. As an evangelist, Reverend Gibbs was popular and his dominant personality exerted its influence for more than 40 years. He was assisted in his religious work by his daughter, Lillian, who accompanied him on his numerous tours. It is said that Harold Bell Wright became a member of the faith of Reverend Gibbs and later attended Hiram College, where his talent as a novelist was developed. Reverend Gibbs died in 1908 and is buried in Brunswick Cemetery. Farnum Henry Gibbs, father of the subject of this sketch, became a farmer and merchant, and for many years conducted a store at Brunswick. He married Miss Ellen L. Blakeslee, a teacher at Weymouth, Medina County. She was the daughter of Ashur and Betsy Louise (Perkins) Blakeslee. Her parents died when she was a very small child and she was reared by her maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Perkins. By a former marriage, Farnum H. Gibbs had a daughter, Nellie, who is the wife of G. R. Moxley, of Brunswick. To Farnum H. and Ellen M. (Blakeslee) Gibbs the following children were born: Eldredge F., who is assistant cashier of the Old Phoenix National Bank, Medina ; Calista A., married Harry E. Vaughn, lives near Brunswick ; Anna L., married Harry Lincoln, lives at Medina, and he is leader of the Medina Symphony and Medina Band, and well known as a maker of violins and cellos ; Edward Clark, the subject of this sketch ; Earl B., a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history ; Esther, married Russell Kinton, lives at Cleveland ; and Ellen, attends Hiram College. Edward Clark Gibbs received his education in the public schools of Brunswick and Medina, from which he was graduated in 1912. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Baldwin Wallace College in 1917, and throughout his college career had devoted his time also to the sale of automobiles, thus defraying his college expenses and accumulating the 980 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO capital from which his present business was financed without any assistance from other sources. At the outbreak of the World War he enlisted for service in the Motor Transport Corps and was sent to Roys Automobile School, Kansas City, Mo., as an instructor, and in charge of teaching enlisted men to drive trucks. He was later transferred to the Signal Corps and sent to France, where he served throughout the remainder of the war period as master signal electrician. He was discharged in March, 1919, and immediately engaged in the automobile business at his present location, South Court and East Smith Road. Mr. Gibbs has been associated in business with his brother, Earl B. Gibbs, since 1921, and they are recognized as progressive young business men of the city. During his career as local dealer for the Chevrolet cars, Mr. Gibbs has completed the sale of 2,818 new automobiles and 5,226 used cars. On June 22, 1920, Mr. Gibbs was united in marriage with Miss Mabel M. Deuble, the daughter of George and Emma Deuble, of Brunswick. They are the parents of two daughters, Miriam and Barbara. Mr. Gibbs is a Republican, a member of the Church of Christ, and is affiliated with Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58 ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council, No. 13 ; Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; American Legion ; and Kiwanis Club. As chairman of the committee on underprivileged children for the Kiwanis Club, Mr. Gibbs was active in the establishment of the first open air camp for children, which has now become an institution with the club. He always takes an active part in the Medina Community Chest Campaign and was chairman of the 1929-30 campaign. Mr. Gibbs is an ardent sportsman, and especially interested in hunting and fishing. He takes numerous trips into Canada and the Rocky Mountain region, and has in his possession countless interesting trophies brought from these expeditions. He also has a number of stereopticon films which he uses to illustrate lectures which he has been asked to deliver upon a number of occasions. The Gibbs family lives at 504 Wadsworth Road, Medina. Earle B. Gibbs is numbered among the dependable and highly successful young business men of Medina, where he is associated with the Gibbs Motor Company. He was born at Brunswick. May 27, 1897, the son of Farnum Henry and Ellen M. (Blakeslee) Gibbs. A complete sketch of Farnum Henry Gibbs appears elsewhere in this history in the biography of Edward Clark Gibbs. As a boy, Earle B. Gibbs attended the public schools of Brunswick and was graduated from high school in 1915. He manifested an early HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 981 interest in farming and throughout his college career had direct management of his father's well improved farm near Brunswick. He was thus enabled to defray his entire expenses while a student at Baldwin Wallace and Hiram College, having received a degree from the latter institution in 1920. Since 1921 he has been a partner in the automobile business with his brother, the company being operated as the Gibbs Motor Company. They are local distributors for Chevrolet automobiles and during 1929 handled a volume of business which amounted to over $500,000.00. On June 28, 1927, Mr. Gibbs married Miss H. Winifred Barnes, the daughter of Wilson and Kate (Hughes) Barnes, of Summerfield, Ohio. They have a daughter, Patrician Ann. The family residence is at 110 East Lafayette. Mr. Gibbs is a Republican, holds membership in the Church of Christ, and belongs to Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council, No. 13 ; and American Legion. Mr. Gibbs was a private in S. A. T. C. of Hiram College during the World War and was discharged Dec. 20, 1918. Throughout his college career Mr. Gibbs took an active part in athletics, having been awarded letters in football, baseball and track at Hiram College. Like his brother, he is also interested in hunting big game and fishing. Burton Cornelius Houseman, who is secretary of the Y. M. C. A. in Medina County, is a veteran of the World War and one of the best known young men of North Central Ohio. He was born at Novar, Ontario, Canada, July 15, 1896, the son of George William and Jessie J. (DePotty) Houseman. George William Houseman was born at Rosewood, Champaign County, Ohio, July 5, 1865. He was a minister of the United Brethren Church and died in 1921. His wife is the daughter of Burton S. and Margaret (Ritter) DePotty, of Ontario, Canada, and she now resides at Findlay, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Houseman were born five children, as follows : Burton C., the subject of this sketch ; Edith, lives at Findlay, Ohio ; Muriel C., a teacher and director of physical education at Colorado Springs, Colo. ; Marguerite, a graduate nurse, Robinwood Hospital, Toledo, Ohio ; Paul, who died in 1926. Burton Cornelius Houseman received his early education in the public schools of Ohio, being a member of the 1915 class at Findlay High School. He then spent one year at Findlay College, and taught school until his enlistment in 1917 for service in the World War. He attended the offi- 982 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO cers' training school at Camp Sherman, Ohio, and Fort Benjamin Harrison, and was commissioned a second lieutenant of artillery in August, 1917, being assigned to the 322nd Regiment of the National Army. He served in France as a member of the 83rd Division and later with the 32nd Division. He was also stationed in Germany with the Army of Occupation after the close of the war and was discharged from the service in June, 1919. In that year Mr. Houseman entered Oberlin College and was graduated from that institution with the class of 1921 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He at once became identified with Y. M. C. A. work at Findlay, Ohio, as boys' secretary and continued there for a period of five years, after which he came to Medina County as secretary. Headquarters are in Medina. On July 24, 1924, Mr. Houseman was united in marriage with Miss Agnes C. Ludwig, the daughter of William A. and Elizabeth (Ritter) Ludwig, of Findlay, Ohio. They have a daughter, Elizabeth Anne. Mr. Houseman is independent in politics. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and is identified with the American Legion, Nu Sigma Nu, Grange, Farm Bureau, and Kiwanis Club. Charles John Kern is a substantial and widely known citizen of Medina, where he has engaged in business for a number of years. He was born in Liverpool Township, Medina County, Feb. 22, 1871, the son of Charles and Frederica (Bart) Kern. Both Charles Kern and his wife were natives of Germany. He was born at Wittenberg, March 14, 1835, and emigrated to the United States in 1869. He was a cooper by trade and after coming to this country was employed by the Standard Oil Company of Cleveland as a cooper. Later he became a farmer in Medina County and was a brick maker, making many of the brick used in rebuilding the business district of Medina, following the fire of 1870. He died in 1911 and is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. His wife came to the United States with a sister in 1868. Her marriage to Charles Kern took place in Liverpool Township, Medina County, in 1870. Their children were : Fred J., who died in December, 1918; Charles John, the subject of this sketch ; John A., lives at Oberlin, Ohio ; Louis M., furnace and sheet metal business, lives at Medina ; and Rose, married Harry Clark, lives in Lafayette Township, Medina County. Charles John Kern received his education in the schools of Liverpool and York townships, but left school when he was 15 years of age, and entered the employ of the Medina Hollow-ware Foundry, with whom he HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 983 remained for a period of eight years. He then spent 15 years with Oatman Bros., hardware dealers, and became foreman of their shop. For three years he was also identified with Munson & Son, and in April, 1911, he engaged in business for himself as a dealer in furnaces. He is well known as a contractor in metal work and has a modern shop at 121 West Washington Street. Mr. Kern was married on Sept. 5, 1894, to Miss Elizabeth Eisenhauer, the daughter of Henry Eisenhauer, of Cleveland. Mrs. Kern's parents both died when she was a small child and she was reared by relatives in Medina. Mr. and Mrs. Kern have two children: Harry R., who is associated in business with his father, married Miss Doris Hoard, and they have a daughter, Elizabeth Jean ; and Luella, married Orrin Dale Beebe, a stationary engineer, lives in Medina. Mr. Kern is a member of the Congregational Church, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Politically, he is a Republican. George Zeigler, who holds the office of county commissioner of Medina County, is numbered among the leading farmers of Spencer Township. He was born in Butler County, Pa., April 12, 1886, the son of George and Mary (Zeigler) Zeigler. George Zeigler, Sr., was born near Zelienople, Pa., in 1850. He engaged in general farming most of his life, and died in March, 1886. He is buried at Harmony, Pa. His wife was the daughter of John and Hannah Zeigler, who were natives of Harmony, Pa. To George and Mary (Zeigler) Zeigler were born the following children: Harry, retired, lives at Elwood, Pa.; Joseph, lives at Zelienople, Pa. ; Frank, died in 1926, and is buried at Elwood, Pa.; Clara, who died in 1898, is buried in Zelienople, Pa. ; Elmer, who died in 1902, buried in Zelienople ; George, the subject of this sketch ; Catherine, who married Ralph Brough, lives at Wadsworth, Ohio. George Zeigler attended the district schools of Lafayette Township, Medina County. His father had died when he was an infant and his mother died when he was a boy of six months. He was reared and educated by an aunt. At an early age, however, Mr. Zeigler engaged in farming in Spencer Township and has become one of the leading stockmen of that section of the county. He served from 1922 until 1928 as township trustee and in the latter year was appointed county commissioner. On Nov. 23, 1910, Mr. Zeigler was united in marriage with Miss Blanch E. Robinson, the daughter of Archie and Alice (Mantz) Robinson, of 984 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Spencer Township, Medina County. They have two daughters : Lois, who attends Oberlin College ; and Doris, who attends Spencer High School. Mr. Zeigler is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias. Joseph DeVault. Prominent among the pioneer citizens of Knox County is Joseph DeVault of Mt. Vernon, who is a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, March 2, 1845, the son of William and Bethsheba (Little) DeVault. William DeVault, born June 6, 1818, was a native of Knox County, but in early life left Ohio and went to Missouri. He later located in Otto County, Neb., where he died. He was married (first) to Bethsheba Little, who died in Knox County. To them were born four children : 1. Sarah, married Samuel Kemmer. 2. Joseph, the subject of this sketch. 3. Nancy, married Uriah Hagen. 4. Mary Elizabeth. William DeVault was married (second) to Diana Babcock, who died shortly after their marriage. He was married (third) to Mrs. Mary Ann Farmer. They had two children: Elmer, who died at the age of 15 years ; and Eva Ellen. Joseph DeVault received his education in the district schools of Butler Township and spent his early life on his father's farm. He enlisted for service in the Civil War, Feb. 8, 1864, at Mt. Vernon, and was sent to Newark. He was later transferred to Columbus and from there to Chattanooga, Tenn., where he was in camp at Mission Ridge. The following spring his company started on the Atlanta campaign, and after their arrival at Buzzard Point, Ga., Mr. DeVault was taken seriously ill and sent to an army hospital at Chattanooga, Tenn. He was unable to return to his regiment during the remainder of the war, and was discharged May 23, 1865. Mr. DeVault returned to his farm in Butler Township where he remained until 1880 when he moved to Mt. Vernon and was engaged as a carpenter and builder until 1920. He has since lived retired at Mt. Vernon, having built his present home there in 1893. On Dec. 6, 1865, Mr. DeVault married Miss Mary Elizabeth Miller, of Louisville, Ky. She died July 27, 1927, at the age of 83 years, and is buried in Mound View Cemetery. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. DeVault: 1. Charles W., lives at Mt. Vernon, had two sons, Albert J., and Edwin, the latter died at the age of 21 years. 2. Emma B., the widow of William B. Kinnard, lives with her father at Mt. Vernon. She has two sons, Clarence and Joseph L. 3. Mary M., married John B. Davis, lives at Croton, Ohio. They have three daughters, Marguerite, Eleanor, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 985 and Frances. 4. Sadie May, married George Albert Sunkle, lives at Mt. Vernon. Mr. DeVault belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Grand Army of the Republic. Joe Hooker Post, No. 21, Grand Army of the Republic, originally had an enrollment of 554 members. There are 16 remaining in 1931, as follows: Thomas S. Pitkin, sergeant major ; William H. Bricker, junior vice commander ; Joseph L. DeVault, senior vice commander ; Marshall Fairchild, officer of the guard; Smith Gearhart, color sergeant ; C. B. Fish, Jacob Lybarger, Lucas G. Mavis, David McFarland, George D. Neal, James Place, John Rockwell, Wilmot Sperry, John F. Stone, and McMichael Young. Mr. DeVault has been a member of The Church of Christ for the past 20 years. Isaac Howard Rickard, who is identified with the well known firm of Rickard Brothers, grocers, is an enterprising business man of Medina. He was born at Chippewa Lake, Ohio, Nov. 5, 1888, the son of Isaac H. and Caroline (Kennedy) Rickard. Isaac H. Rickard, deceased, was born in Bucks County, Pa., Oct. 16, 1848, and was an early settler of Ohio. He was interested in the manufacture of brick and tile for many years. Mr. Rickard died June 23, 1926, and is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. His wife was the daughter of George and Sarah Kennedy. To Isaac H. and Caroline (Kennedy) Rickard were born seven children, as follows : Inza, married Manley S. Clark, who is principal of schools at Massillon, Ohio; Charles E., who lives at Chardon, Ohio ; Delbert H., who is treasurer of the Henry Furnace & Foundry Company, of Cleveland, Ohio ; Edith, married Ellis H. Williams, lives at Sterling, Ill.; Isaac Howard, the subject of this sketch ; Clarence D., insurance, lives at Medina ; and Stanley B., who is associated with Rickard Brothers, Medina. Isaac Howard Rickard attended the public schools of Chippewa Lake, Ohio, and is a graduate of Massillon Business College. In 1908 he went to Sterling, Ill., where he spent four years on the farm of his brother-in-law, Ellis H. Williams. He then spent two years at Marshalltown, Iowa, in the employ of the American Express Company, after which he went to Kankakee, Ill., for the same company. Upon his return to Medina, Mr. Rickard took charge of his father's farm, and in 1918 purchased an interest in the grocery business of Hobart Edwards in Medina. In 1923 he and his brother, Stanley Rickard, bought the business from Hobart Edwards, in partnership with M. B. Fuller, and six years later Rickard 986 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Brothers acquired Mr. Fuller's interest in the firm. They are leading merchants of the city and have a well established trade. On Oct. 19, 1911, Mr. Rickard was united in marriage with Miss Carrie E. Sivits, the daughter of William and Ruth Sivits, of Sterling, Ill. They are the parents of the following children: Erwin H., Ruth, Lucille, Evelyn, Corwin, and Edwin, all at home. Politically, Mr. Rickard is a Republican. He holds membership in the Congregational Church, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Edmond Henry Deibel was born at Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 20, 1896, the son of Henry and Caroline (Schleppi) Deibel. He received his education in the public schools of Columbus, being a graduate of East High School, class of 1913. He then entered Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Chemical Engineering in 1917. Mr. Deibel then spent the following eight years with the Barrett Company, New York City, refiners of coal tar and manufacturers of road materials. In 1925 he came to Medina, where he has since been engaged as a contractor in highway construction. Mr. Deibel was married on Oct. 16, 1918, to Miss Faith Anderson, the daughter of Warren J. and Elnora (Hartman) Anderson, of Medina. They have two daughters, Jean and Jo Ann. In politics Mr. Deibel is identified with the Republican party. He holds membership in the Congregational Church, and is affiliated with Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58; Scioto Consistory, 32nd degree; and Aladdin Temple, Mystic Shrine. He also belongs to the Kiwanis Club and Winyah Club. Both he and his wife are members of the Medina Chapter of the Eastern Star, of which he is Past Patron. William Edward Levet, retired, is a prominent citizen of Medina, where he has spent his entire life, and where he has been well known as a building contractor for many years. He was born in this city, Oct. 16, 1855, the son of Charles and Ann Elizabeth (Tebbet) Levet. Charles Levet was born in Soham, Cambridgeshire, England, in 1814. He was a carpenter and painter by trade and came to the United States with his family in 1850 and settled at Medina. Three sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Levet : Charles, born in England in 1840, was a veteran of the Civil War, having served with the Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and he died in 1910, buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina ; Joseph, born in England in 1842, died in 1863 while in service during the Civil HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 987 War, as a member of the 103rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina ; and William Edward, the subject of this sketch. William Edward Levet obtained his education in the public schools of Medina, and at the age of 18 years became an apprentice carpenter for Samuel Scott, a pioneer builder and contractor of Medina. He later was employed by Richard Gibbons, and finally engaged in business for himself in Medina. Mr. Levet in partnership with Frank Waters for 44 years was considered the leading contractor and builder in Medina County and they were responsible for the erection of some of the city's finest homes. He also had the contract for the building of the Baptist Church in Medina. Mr. Levet has lived practically retired since 1921. His residence is located at 536 East Liberty Street. Mr. Levet was married March 3, 1879, to Miss Jennie Aylard, the daughter of William and Sophia Aylard, both deceased. They were residents of Medina. Mr. and Mrs. Levet have a daughter, Mae Elizabeth, who lives at home. Politically, Mr. Levet is a Republican. He is a member of the Baptist Church, as is his family. He has in his possession one of the finest collections of Indian relics to be found anywhere in this section of the State. Part of the Levet collection is on display in the Sylvester Library, Medina. Fred O. Roshon is a widely known farmer and stockman of Medina County, and has held the office of sheriff. He was born in Guilford Township, Medina County, Jan. 21, 1874, the son of William F. and Lydia (Kindig) Roshon. William P. Roshon was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Montville Township, Medina County, July 9, 1846, and throughout his life engaged in general farming. At the age of 17 years he enlisted for service in the Civil War and served as a member of Company I, 29th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in such important battles as Lookout Mountain, and was with General Sherman on his March to the Sea, also taking part in the final grand review at Washington, D. C. He was discharged in April, 1865. Mr. Roshon died in 1925, and is buried in Poe Cemetery, Medina County. In 1872 he had married Miss Lydia Kindig, the daughter of John and Mary Kindig, who were natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers of Medina County. He was a farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Roshon were born five children: Fred 0., the subject of this sketch ; Fannie, who married J. C. Beedle, lives at Medina ; Maybelle, who died in 1901 and is bured in Poe Cemetery ; John I., county agent for the Sinclair Oil Company, lives at Medina ; and Willis, a farmer, lives near Medina. 988 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO Fred O. Roshon attended the district schools of Montville Township. He left high school after one year, and at the age of 18 years began teaching school in Medina County. He continued in that profession for 11 years and then resumed his farming activities. Mr. Roshon is well known as a breeder of pure bred Poland China hogs, and also specializes in market gardening. His farm is located one and one-half miles south of Medina on the Wadsworth Road. Mr. Roshon was elected to the office of sheriff of Medina County in 1922 and served for four years. His son, Neal, succeeded him in that office and Mr. Roshon continued as chief deputy for two years. On Oct. 2, 1895, Mr. Roshon married Miss Ethel Kreider, the daughter of David and Etta Kreider, who were residents of Blake, a small village south of Medina. To Mr. and Mrs. Roshon were born four sons : 1. Neal, who operates a gasoline service station eight miles east of Medina. He is a veteran of the World War, having served in France as a member of the 145th Regiment, 37th Division. 2. Harold, garage owner, Medina. He served on the Mexican border during 1916 and in France during the World War as a member of the 145th Regiment, 37th Division. 3. Ralph, farmer, lives on the homestead. 4. Walter, in partnership with his brother Harold, garage owners, Medina. He served as deputy sheriff during his father's term in office. Mr. Roshon has always been a Democrat. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias, Loyal Order of Moose, and Montville Grange. William Grant Brumbaugh, who is agent for the Cleveland & Southwestern Railroad at Seville, is a substantial and widely known citizen of Medina County. He was born at Antrim, Ohio, Oct. 26, 1867, the son of Daniel W. and Sarah F. (Bowers) Brumbaugh. Daniel W. Brumbaugh, deceased, was a Civil War veteran. He was born at Johnstown, Pa., Dec. 14, 1836, and throughout his life followed the trade of a blacksmith. He served during the Civil War as a member of the Third Ohio Volunteer Infantry and following the battle of Chickamauga he was taken prisoner at Rome, Ga., in a raid made by Gen. Forest of the Rebel Army and held captive in Libby Prison for a few days, when he was exchanged and served throughout the remainder of the war. Upon his return to Antrim he was married to Miss Sarah F. Bowers, the daughter of Hugh H. Bowers, the owner of a general store at Antrim. They were the parents of nine children, all of whom are deceased except William Grant, the subject of this sketch. Daniel W. Brumbaugh died in 1910 and is buried in Mound Hill Cemetery, Seville, Ohio. His widow lives at Seville. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 989 William Grant Brumbaugh received his education in the schools of Antrim and removed to Seville, Ohio, in 1882, where he attended high school, being a member of the class of 1887. He was in the general mercantile business at Seville until 1902, at which time he was appointed agent for the Cleveland & Southwestern Railroad at Seville. On April 8, 1890, Mr. Brumbaugh married Miss Mary L. Bell, the daughter of Van and Emeline (Caughey) Bell, of Seville, both now deceased. They have a daughter, Florence Irene, who is the wife of Louis L. Parks, assistant agent for the Cleveland & Southwestern Railroad at Seville. Mr. Brumbaugh is a Republican and has served as mayor of Seville on three different occasions during the past 25 years. He has also been a member of the council. At the present time he is president of the Rotary Club. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he has the following lodge affiliations : Seville Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 74, Past Master and Secretary for the past 33 years ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council, No. 13 ; Wooster Commandery, No. 48 ; and Lake Erie Consistory, 32nd degree. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias. Nathaniel Bell, great-grandfather of Mrs. Brumbaugh, was one of the founders of the town of Seville, which was platted by him in 1848. He also donated the land to the community for the Seville Cemetery. This is also the site of a famous old Indian burying ground, which is believed to be many centuries old. Cinna Wilkes Hoover, who is widely known throughout North Central Ohio as the cashier of the Lodi State Bank, is a native of Ohio. He was born March 20, 1870, at Sterling, the son of Henry and Harriet (Shook) Hoover. Henry Hoover was a native of Wayne County, Ohio, born in August, 1837. He was a farmer and tobacco grower, and died in 1911 and is buried at Seville, Ohio. Mr. Hoover had married Miss Harriet Shook, the daughter of George Shook, of Guilford Center, Ohio. To them were born two children : Elva, who died in 1901, was the wife of Richard Bratton, who died in 1896, and they are buried at Eaton, Ohio and Cinna Wilkes, the subject of this sketch. Cinna Wilkes Hoover grew up at Sterling, Ohio, where he attended the public schools. He also spent two years at Northern Indiana Normal School, Valparaiso, Ind., and began his teaching career in 1891. He taught for three years in the district schools near Sterling, and for two years 990 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO was superintendent of schools at Rittman, Ohio. In 1897 he received an appointment as a railway mail clerk and for three years worked between Pittsburgh and Chicago, and for 11 years between Cleveland and Bridgeport, Ohio. In 1912 Mr. Hoover founded the "Rittman Press," which he owned and edited for a period of four years. He then became identified with the Rittman Savings Bank as cashier, and served in that capacity until 1921, when he came to Lodi as cashier of the Lodi State Bank. On Dec. 25, 1894, Mr. Hoover was united in marriage with Miss Malinda Mougey, the daughter of Peter and Mary (Stoll) Mougey, of Sterling, Ohio, both deceased. They have a son, Levin Irving, who was born Oct. 17, 1895. He is a graduate of Rittman High School, class of 1913, and is now an electrical engineer at Harper, Kan. He is married and has two sons. Mr. Hoover is a Republican, a member of the Congregational Church, and belongs to Harrisonville Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 137 ; Lodi Oriental Chapter, No. 128, West Salem, R. A. M. He is also a member of the Rotary Club. Albert Warren Nettleton. One of the progressive and widely known citizens of Medina is Albert Warren Nettleton, landscape architect, with offices at his residence, 424 East Washington Street. He was born in Medina Township, Medina County, Jan. 10, 1876, the son of Warren Fowler and Ellen (Crow) Nettleton. Warren Fowler Nettleton was born in Medina County, March 2, 1838, and was a member of a Connecticut family. He married Miss Ellen Crow, the daughter of John and Martha (Peebles) Crow, natives of New York and early settlers of Hinckley, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Nettleton were born two children : one died in infancy ; and Albert Warren, the subject of this sketch. Albert Warren Nettleton received his early education in the district schools and was graduated from Medina High School in 1894. He then studied agriculture at Ohio State University, from which he received a degree in 1898. He spent the next 20 years as a farmer, and specialized in the breeding of pure bred Shorthorn cattle. Mr. Nettleton came to Medina in 1921. From 1922 to 1925 he was engaged in official work with the Ohio Experiment Station as superintendent of the Mahoning and Trumbull County Experiment Farm. During that time he lived at Canfield, Ohio, but in 1925 returned to Medina, where he has since engaged in landscape architecture. On Oct. 22, 1913, Mr. Nettleton married Mrs. Mamie Gray Pendergrass, the daughter of Wallace and Clarinda Gray, of York Township, HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 991 Medina County. Mrs. Nettleton traces her ancestry to William Brewster, who came to the United States on the Mayflower, and she is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Mr. and Mrs. Nettleton have no children but Mrs. Nettleton by her former marriage was the mother of a son, Robert W., who died July 2, 1927, in his seventeenth year. He is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. Mr. Nettleton is a Republican and has always taken an active part in politics in Medina County, having served for four years as secretary of the Republican county executive committee. For ten years he was also president of the local school board. He is a deacon of the Congregational Church, and is affiliated with Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30. Mr. and Mrs. Nettleton reside at 424 East Washington Street, Medina. Glenn Egbert Benjamin, who is identified with the Geo. S. MellertWeidner Company, paving contractors, is one of the best known residents of Medina. He was born at Hinckley, Ohio, Sept. 4, 1885, the son of Egbert S. and Addie (Bennett) Benjamin. Egbert S. Benjamin was born in 1849. He was a farmer during his life and also engaged in the general mercantile business at Hinckley, Ohio. He died in August, 1887, and is buried at Bennett's Corners, Medina County. Addie (Bennett) Benjamin was the daughter of Henry and Eunice Bennett, who were natives and well known residents of Brunswick Township. To Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin were born the following children: Clair, born Jan. 1, 1874, lives at St. Petersburg, Fla.; Alda, died in 1930, was the wife of John Johns, a merchant, Hinckley ; Anna, married John Fitts, farmer, lives near Elyria, Ohio ; Glenn E., the subject of this sketch ; and Hazel, deceased, was the wife of Allison Clement. Glenn Egbert Benjamin grew to manhood in Hinckley Township and obtained his education in the district schools. He was graduated from Medina High School in 1902 and then engaged in business at Elyria, Ohio, with his brother, Clair. Five years later he accepted a clerical position with the Atlas Bolt & Screw Company, of Cleveland, Ohio, with whom he remained for two years. He then went with Usher & Waite, of Brunswick, Ohio, and in 1913 formed a partnership with Charles Lainseder and purchased the business of Usher & Waite, which they successfully conducted for 13 years. In 1926 Mr. Benjamin came to Medina, where he has since been associated with the interests of the Geo. S. Mellert-Weidner Company as assistant secretary and director. Mr. Benjamin was married on June 3, 1907, to Miss Bertha Johnson, the daughter of Miles and Lavina Johnson, of Brunswick, Ohio. They 992 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO have three children : Eleanor Louise, a student at Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio ; Ruth Hazel, a student at Medina High School; and Roger Glenn, who was born in November, 1922. Politically, Mr. Benjamin is a Republican, and he has served two terms as a member of the city council. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he belongs to Medina Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 58 ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Wooster Council, No. 13 ; Akron Commandery, K. T., No. 25 ; Al Koran Temple ; and Kiwanis Club. The Benjamin family lives at 302 North Broadway, Medina. Philip Wappner, who is manager of the firm of Charles L. Wappner & Brother, funeral directors, is numbered among the representative business men of Mansfield. He was born in this city, July 6, 1885, the son of Philip and Catherine (Ackerman) Wappner. A sketch of Philip Wappner, deceased, appears in this history. The boyhood of Philip Wappner was spent in Mansfield, where he has always lived. He attended the Ohio Business College of Mansfield and for a time was employed as a clerk in the Foltz Hardware Company, and later became a traveling representative of the Wanger Hardware Store. In 1919 he became associated with his brother's business and in 1925 became a member of the firm, which has since been known as Charles L. Wappner & Brother. They removed to their present location, 98 South Diamond Street, in 1927, and Charles L. Wappner died May 14, 1925. The business, known as Charles L. Wappner & Brother, is an outgrowth of the original business begun in 1872 by Peter J. Faust and Philip Wappner in the Hartman Building. They were undertakers and furniture dealers and were recognized as able and successful business men of that period. In 1883 the company built a new store building on South Park Street, which is still the location of the Wappner Furniture Company. Mr. Faust sold his interests to Henry Wappner in 1890 and the firm was thereafter known as Wappner Brothers. It was in 1918 that Wappner Brothers decided to dispose of their business and the undertaking was then taken over by Charles L. Wappner, who became associated with his brother, Philip, during the following year. This modern funeral home enjoys the confidence of the community and is widely known throughout Richland County for its prompt and courteous service. In 1916 Mr. Wappner married Miss Anna Yesse, the daughter of Gottlieb and Amelia Yesse, natives of Germany. Mr. Yesse died in 1916 and is buried at Oak Harbor, Ohio, where his widow resides. Mr. and Mrs. HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 993 Wappner have a son, James, who is a student in the Mansfield public schools. Mr. Wappner is an active member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, and is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; Mansfield Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 35 ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 35 ; Mansfield Council, R. & S. M. M., No. 94 ; and Mansfield Commandery, K. T., No. 21. He also belongs to the Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce He is independent in politics. Philip Wappner, deceased, was a highly esteemed citizen and substantial business man of Mansfield for many years. He was born in Germany, June 15, 1850, and died April 24, 1925. When he was an infant Philip Wappner was brought to the United States with his parents, who settled in Ohio. He became interested in the furniture and undertaking business in Mansfield at an early date and was active in the business life of the city for a period of 46 years. He retired in 1918 but maintained his residence in Mansfield until his death in 1925. He is buried in Mansfield. Mr. Wappner married Miss Catherine Ackerman, who died in 1921. To them were born 13 children, as follows: Metta, married Fred D. Sells, former sheriff of Richland County, lives at Mansfield ; Margaret, married J. C. Edwards, lives at Mansfield ; Anna, married Frank Longsdorf, lives at Oakland, Calif.; Charles L., mention of whom is made below ; Philip, a sketch of whom appears in this history ; Henry M., a World War veteran, lives at Mansfield ; Herman P., a World War veteran, lives in Mansfield; Theresa, married B. F. Spicer, lives at Mansfield ; Rev. Martin W., a minister of the Lutheran Church, lives at Kent, Ohio ; Martha Hunt, lives at Mansfield ; and George, lives at Mansfield. Philip Wappner held membership in St. Paul's Lutheran Church, and belonged to the Masonic Lodge and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He always took an active interest in municipal affairs, and was well known in the city for his business qualifications. Charles L. Wappner was born in Mansfield, Aug. 19, 1886. He was educated in the public schools of this city, and in 1902 became associated with his father's furniture and undertaking business. In 1918 he took over the funeral home and conducted that branch of the business as Charles L. Wappner & Brother, having taken his brother, Philip, into the firm in 1919. Mr. Wappner died May 14, 1925, and is buried in Mansfield. He• was married on Sept. 25, 1907, to Miss Irella Spangler, of Crestline, Ohio. Their children were: Ralph, William, Richard, Carl, Eugene, Leonard, Margaret and Alvina. Mr. Wappner was a member of Mansfield 994 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO 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; Baku Grotto, M. 0. V. P. E. R.; and Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Past Grand of Richland Lodge No 161. He held membership in St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Asa William Dean, D. D. S. Outstanding among the successful young professional men of North Central Ohio is Doctor Dean, who is a member of one of the oldest and best known families of Medina County. He was born in Lafayette Township, Medina County, Aug. 31, 1895, the son of David H. and Ella S. (Derrick) Dean. David H. Dean was born on the old Dean homestead in Medina County, the son of A. B. Dean, who had settled there in 1856. The father of A. B. Dean was David Dean, who was born in Bennington County, Vt., Aug. 31, 1797. He came to Ohio in 1824 and settled in Portage County, where his son, A. B. Dean, was born May 25, 1831. The latter was married in Portage County in 1856 and came to Medina County, where he acquired 215 acres of land, which is now the southwestern corner of Lafayette Township. He became one of the prosperous farmers of the county and was widely known. His son, David H., father of the subject of this sketch, also followed farming and stock raising on the old Dean homestead and became successful as a breeder of Morgan horses and pure bred Jersey cattle. He married Miss Ella S. Derrick, and they were the parents of the following children: Ida, married J. E. Warner, lives at Lodi, Ohio; Ada, married Thomas Longsdorf, lives in Westfield Township, Medina County; Grace, married Grover Rice, lives at Lodi, Ohio ; Asa W., the subject of this sketch ; and David Gale, mention of whom is made below. David Gale Dean was born May 19, 1897. He is a graduate of Lodi High School, class of 1916, and attended Ohio State University, where he spent two years in the study of pharmacy before taking up dentistry. He received the. degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1923, and engaged in practice at Lodi until 1930, when he came to Medina to become associated with his brother, Asa William. Asa William Dean grew up on his father's farm and received his early education in the district schools. He attended Lodi High School and after his graduation in 1913 took a business course at Dyke School of Business, Cleveland. He subsequently entered Western Reserve University, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1917. At the outbreak of the World War Doctor Dean volunteered for service and was attached to the Dental Corps until his discharge in De- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 995 cember, 1918. He practiced for a period of five years at Lodi and established offices in Medina in 1923, where he has met with unusual success. He and his brother have offices in the Gazette Building. On Oct. 9, 1920, Doctor Dean was united in marriage with Miss Mary Alice Best, the daughter of John and Elva Best, of Medina. Mr. Best is retired. To Doctor and Mrs. Dean have been born three daughters: Patricia Ann, Lorna May, and Deborah Jane. Doctor Dean is an attendant of the Episcopal Church, and belongs to Harrisville Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 137, of Lodi, Ohio; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30; Delta Sigma Delta fraternity; and Kiwanis Club. He also belongs to the Northern Ohio Dental Association. Politically, he is a Republican. The Dean family originally came from Scotland, being descended from David Dean, who came to the United States about the middle of the eighteenth century and settled in Vermont. John Loveless Beach, M. D. One of the most prominent physicians and surgeons of North Central Ohio is Doctor Beach, a veteran of the World War, who is the third generation of his family to engage in the practice of medicine at Seville, in Medina County. He was born at Seville, May 30, 1888, the son of Dr. Platt Ellsworth and Lillie (Loveless) Beach. Dr. Platt Beach was born at Wooster, Ohio, Sept. 15, 1855, the son of Dr. Albert P. Beach, who was a native of Connecticut, born in 1835. The latter engaged successfully in the practice of medicine at Seville and Wooster for many years and throughout the Civil War served with the Union Army. He died in 1898 and is buried at Seville in Mound Hill Cemetery. His son, Dr. Platt Ellsworth Beach, practiced his profession for many years at Seville and died there in January, 1911. He had married Miss Lillie Loveless, the daughter of Thomas and Mary Loveless, of Seville. She died in 1921 and is buried in Mound Hill Cemetery, Seville. To Dr. Platt Ellsworth and Lillie (Loveless) Beach were born five children, as follows: Miriam, who lives with her brother, Dr. John L. Beach ; Paul E., born April 14, 1885, a surgeon, a member of the staff of St. Lukes' Hospital, Cleveland ; John L., the subject of this sketch ; Louise, married Wellington W. Pease, lives at Massillon, Ohio ; and Robert A., identified with the Guardian Savings & Trust Company, Cleveland. John Loveless Beach attended the public schools of Seville, Ohio, and was graduated from Wooster Preparatory College in 1907. He then completed a college course at Wooster College in 1911, after which he entered the Medical School of Western Reserve University, Cleveland, from which 996 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1916. He served as interne at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Cleveland, and the following year entered the service during the World War, being transferred to the Medical Corps of the British forces, with whom he served with the rank of captain. Upon his return to the United States in May, 1919, Doctor Beach was discharged, and in October, 1919, established his present practice at Seville. He has been in his present location on East Main Street since 1930. On Dec. 6, 1919, Doctor Beach was united in marriage with Miss Lila Roberts, the daughter of John Roberts, of Batavia, N. Y. She is a graduate nurse, of Buffalo General Hospital, and during the World War was stationed at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Cleveland. To Doctor and Mrs. Beach have been born two children: Phillip Platt, born July 21, 1922 ; and Barbara Roberts. Doctor Beach is a Republican, and he belongs to Seville Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 74 ; Medina Chapter, R. A. M., No. 30 ; Sigma Chi and Nu Sigma Nu fraternities ; American Legion ; Rotary Club ; Wooster Country Club, and Chippewa Lake Park Club. He is also identified with the Ohio State Medical Society and American Medical Association. Merton Harvey Whitney, retired, is a substantial and widely known citizen of Chatham. He was born there, Nov. 4, 1873, the son of John Bunyan and Adelaide Lucinda (Clapp) Whitney. John Bunyan Whitney was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born near Granville, N. Y., in 1848. During the Civil War he served as a member of the 166th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was a farmer during his life and died at Chatham in 1876. Mr. Whitney married Miss Adelaide Lucinda Clapp, the daughter of Luther and Hannah Clapp, the former a well known farmer of Chatham. Mrs. Whitney died in 1926. There were two sons born to Mr. and Mrs. Whitney : Dr. E. L., physician, lives at Walla Walla, Wash.; and Merton Harvey, the subject of this sketch. Merton H. Whitney has always lived at Chatham and was educated in the public schools. He was interested in farming until 1902, at which time he entered the offices of a railroad company at Lodi, Ohio, and in whose employ he remained for two years, when he returned to the farm in Chatham Township until 1919. From 1919 until 1928 Mr. Whitney was identified with the hardware business in Akron. He has since lived retired in the village of Chatham. On April 16, 1896, Mr. Whitney married Miss Esther C. Myers, a daughter of Amos and Lucy A. Myers, of Akron, Ohio. They have three children: Leon, mention of whom is made below ; Helen Adelaide, mar- HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 997 ried Fred Mann, lives at Detroit ; and John B., who died in 1919, is buried in Chatham Cemetery. Leon Whitney was born at Chatham, Jan. 21, 1897. He is a veteran of the World War, having served in France as a member of Company D, 146th Regiment, 37th Division. He saw active service during the Argonne drive at Belleau Wood and Chateau Thierry. After his discharge from the service in April, 1919, he returned to Akron, Ohio, where he is employed in the post office. He is married and has a son, John M. Whitney. Merton H. Whitney is a Republican, a member of the Congregational Church, and belongs to Medina County Grange. He is township clerk, and also clerk of the school board. Franklin Christian Reutter, M. D. Outstanding among the successful young professional men of Medina County is Doctor Reutter, who is engaged in the practice of his profession at Spencer. He was born at Brunswick, Ohio, Feb. 21, 1901, the son of Christian F. and Rosa (Steinle) Reutter. Christian F. Reutter was born in Germany, July 6, 1874, and came to the United States with his parents in 1886. The family immediately located in Medina County, Ohio, where the father became a prosperous farmer. Christian F. Reutter, when grown to manhood, also became interested in general farming and stockraising. He was married on Jan. 1, 1900, to Miss Rosa Steinle, the daughter of Christopher Steinle, a well known resident of Liverpool Township, Medina County. To Christian F. and Rose (Steinle) Reutter were born the following children : Franklin, Christian, the subject of this sketch ; Helen, married Victor Morlock, lives at Columbia Station, Lorain County, Ohio ; Clara, married Louis Dobson, lives at Mallet Creek, Ohio ; Esther, lives at Spencer ; Edna, a graduate of Brunswick High School and Akron Business College ; Herbert, who lives at home ; and Mildred, who attends school at Brunswick. Franklin Christian Reutter grew up at Brunswick, where he received his early education. After his graduation from high school in 1919 he spent two years at Baldwin-Wallace College before entering the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati. He received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1928 and at that time had also completed his interne work at Huron Road Hospital, Cleveland. Doctor Reutter has maintained offices at Spencer since October, 1928, and is recognized as a capable young physician and surgeon. In the fall of 1930, he took post graduate work at Rush Medical College of Chicago in the X-ray department, and has his office 998 - HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO equipped with modern X-ray and fleuroscopic apparatus. He is identified with the Medina County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. On Jan. 1, 1927, Doctor Reutter was united in marriage with Miss Mildred Dobson, of Mallett Creek, Ohio, daughter of Hiley and Rose (Morlock) Dobson, a successful farmer of that region. They have a daughter, Alice May. Politically, Doctor Reutter is a Democrat. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Lutheran Church. George Starr is a prosperous and successful farmer of Medina County, being the owner of a well improved farm of 175 acres just north of Mallett Creek. He was born at Valley City, Ohio, May 16, 1863, the son of George and Louise (Fahrion) Starr. George Starr, Sr., was a native of Germany, born Jan. 5, 1835. He died May 6, 1902, and is buried in York Cemetery. He came to this country in 1854 and during that year located in Medina County. He spent 11 years in the employ of a flour mill in this county and for two years operated a tannery in Findlay, Ohio. In 1861 Mr. Starr married Miss Louise Fahrion, the daughter of John Christopher Fahrion, of York Township, Medina County. To Mr. and Mrs. Starr were born four children : Mary, who died in 1922, was the wife of Augustus Frombaugh, who is deceased ; George, the subject of this sketch ; John G., retired, lives near Lester Station, Ohio ; and Emma, married George L. Kehren, lives at Brunswick. He is a farmer and is also president of the Farmers' Mutual Home Insurance Company. George Starr was educated in the district schools of York Township and for four terms attended a select school at Mallet Creek. He was employed on his father's farm during the summer months and remained there until his marriage in 1890. At that time he purchased his father's farm, which is his present home, near Mallett Creek. He is also a director and adjuster of the Farmers Mutual Home Insurance Company. On April 6, 1890, Mr. Starr married Miss Lucy S. Maley, the daughter of Fred J. and Louise (Burrer) Maley, of Valley City, Ohio. Both now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Starr were born three children : Carl M., born June 1, 1891, mention of whom is made below; Louise, married Earl C. Pierce, lives at Medina ; and Helen, married R. W. Houston, who is identified with the Miami Herald of Miami, Florida. Carl M. Starr is a graduate of Medina High School, class of 1909. He spent four years as a teacher in the district schools of Medina County and HISTORY OF NORTH CENTRAL OHIO - 999 attended Wooster College. During 1915 he spent one term as a student in the agricultural department of Ohio State University. In 1914 he purchased a small farm near Lester Station, where he farmed until 1920. From 1921 until 1928 he operated the home place as a dairy farm. He is the father of one daughter, Margaret Elaine Starr. George Starr is a Democrat in politics and has held the offices of county commissioner, township trustee, and school director. For several years Mr. and Mrs. Starr have spent the winter months in Florida. Sylvester Billman. One of the leading citizens of Spencer, well known throughout Medina County as a substantial business man, is Sylvester Billman. He was born in Medina County, May 14, 1863, the son of Jackson Perry and Polly (Koons) Billman. Jackson Perry Billman was born in eastern Pennsylvania in 1832. When only five years of age he came with his parents to Spencer Township, Medina County, and they settled on a farm near Spencer. The Bill-man homestead is still in possession of the family. Jackson Perry Bill-man followed farming throughout his life. He died in 1900 and his wife died in 1914. Both are buried in East Homer Cemetery. They had three sons: Charles, lives at Eagleville, Ashtabula County, Ohio ; Milo, retired, lives at Lodi, Ohio ; and Sylvester, the subject of this sketch. Sylvester Billman was reared and educated in Spencer Township, Medina County, and remained on his father's farm until 1884, at which time he purchased a farm of his own in this county. In 1903 Mr. Billman became interested in the furniture and undertaking business at Spencer, in partnership with William A. Briggs, and they continued the enterprise most successfully until 1917, at which time Mr. Billman acquired his partner's interest. He is recognized as a dependable merchant and has an extensive trade throughout North Central Ohio. On Dec. 12, 1886, Mr. Billman was united in marriage with Miss Ella C. Rebman, the daughter of Jacob and Margaret Rebman, well known residents of Spencer Township. To them was born a son, Clayton LeRoy Billman, born in 1887. He is a farmer and operates the old Billman homestead in Medina County. Ella C. (Rebman) Billman died in April, 1899, and is buried in East Homer Cemetery. Mr. Sylvester Billman was married the second time on Nov. 2, 1901, to Miss Beulah Kemery, daughter of James Kemery, of Spencer. To this union three children were born: Bernice May, married Kent D. Firestone, who is manager of the Spencer Telephone Company ; Walter K., born Sept. 24, 1911, associated in business with his father, and H. S. Elliott, funeral director, of Lodi, Ohio ; and Robert, born April 21, 1917, a student in Spencer High School.