HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1075 Jersey with his parents when he was nine years of age. They made the trip over the mountains by wagon and cleared a farm in Athens County, where John B. Phillips spent the remainder of his life. He cast his first vote for Gen. John C. Fremont, the first Republican candidate for president. Throughout his life he was a faithful member of the Methodist Church. To Mr. and Mrs. John B. Phillips the following children were born: 1. James T., who died at Charleston, W. Va., in January, 1913. 2. Catherine L., who died in March, 1874, at the age of nine years. 3. Mary E., who died in March, 1874. Both died of diphtheria. 4. Jennie B., married William Hoisington, lives at Columbus, Ohio. 5. William Richard, the subject of this sketch. William Richard Phillips attended the district schools of Athens County, and at the age of 19 years received a teacher's certificate. He then taught four terms of school at a salary of $30 per month. Mr. Phillips later spent four years at Ohio University and was graduated from that institution in 1902. He spent the following eight years as a teacher of commercial subjects in the Ohio Valley Business College at East Liverpool, and for three years was office manager of the Buckeye Lumber & Building Company, East Liverpool. Mr. Phillips was next appointed deputy county auditor and served for two years. He also held the office of deputy county treasurer for four years, and was elected to the office of county treasurer for two terms. Since 1923 he has been interested in the general insurance business at Lisbon. In November, 1934, he was a candidate for state representative from this district. On Dec. 30, 1903, Mr. Phillips married Miss Adaline I. Snow, who was born at Athens, Jan. 4, 1876, daughter of Wesley and Elizabeth (Bougher) Snow. The former died at Athens in 1877, and the latter died in July, 1924. Mr. Snow was a farmer and served during the Civil War. To Mr. and 1076 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Mrs. Phillips were born two daughters: 1. Nancy Elizabeth, born at East Liverpool, July 27, 1909. She is a graduate of Lisbon High School and Ohio University, and is supervisor of music in the Lisbon public schools. 2. Helen Snow, born at East Liverpool, March 5, 1911. She is a graduate of Lisbon High School and Ohio University. She married Robert Morrison and lives at 176 Maple Drive, Youngstown. Mr. Phillips is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. Frank E. Flynn. —Outstanding among the industrial leaders of the Mahoning Valley is Frank E. Flynn, who is identified with the Republic Steel Company of Youngstown, as assistant district manager. He was born in this city, May 19, 1884, the son of Michael D. and Agnes (Baker) Flynn. Michael D. Flynn was a native of Kirkintella, near Glasgow, Scotland, and his wife was born at Kittanning, Pa. They are residents of Pittsburgh, Pa. Mr. Flynn was eight years old when he came to this country with his mother, and they located at Youngstown where he was employed in the steel mills at the age of 12 years. His mother met with an accidental death while bringing her son's lunch to him in the mills. Mr. Flynn continued in the steel mills and became boss roller for the Cartwright-McCurdy Steel Company. He later went to Pomeroy, Ohio, with the late James Campbell, who founded a steel mill there. Mr. Flynn subsequently went with the Superior Steel Company, at Carnegie, Pa., and also was identified for a time with the Weirton (W. Va.) Steel Company. He is now retired. Mr. Flynn was president of the Amalgamated Iron & Steel Workers, and during his active career took a prominent part in labor organization. HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1077 He was an orator of note and many early residents of this section will recall his stirring debates which occurred throughout the Mahoning Valley. Mr. Flynn is a Democrat, and holds membership in St. Luke's Catholic Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Flynn were born the following children: 1. Frank E., subject of this sketch. 2. Mary, married Frank Harmuth, lives at Bridgeville, Pa. 3. Agnes, deceased, was the wife of Vincent O'Shea. 4. Fidelis, married M. T. Still, lives at Dormont, Pa. 5. Helen, lives at Pittsburgh, Pa. 6. Edward, a World War veteran, served with the 80th Division in France and participated in five major engagements, lives in Pittsburgh. 7. Edna, married John Dougherty, attorney, lives at Pittsburgh. 8. Genevieve, deceased. 9. Edith, lives at Pittsburgh. 10. Ralph, deceased. Frank E. Flynn attended the public schools of Carnegie, Pa., but left school at the age of 13 years to enter the employ of the Western Union Company as a messenger. Later, he worked in the shops of the Bisi Macaroni Company. He also was employed by the Superior Steel Company, at Carnegie, Pa. Mr. Flynn spent 11 years with the Weirton Steel Company in West Virginia, and resigned as manager after serving as superintendent and assistant manager. He then went with the Trumbull Steel Company, at Warren, Ohio, as assistant vice president in charge of operations. This plant later became a unit of the Republic Steel Corporation, and at that time Mr. Flynn became assistant district manager in charge of operations. Mr. Flynn married (first) Miss Catherine Madden, deceased. She is buried in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Pittsburgh. They had two sons: 1. Robert Michael, who attends Duquesne University. 2. Frane E., Jr., who attends Ohio Military Institute. Mr. Flynn married (second) Miss Edna Rose Lutz, daughter of Joseph H. and Elizabeth (Mayer) Lutz, the former a native of Pittsburg and the latter of Homestead, 1078 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Pa. They are residents of Bridgeville, Pa., where Mr. Lutz is owner of the J. H. Lutz Lumber and Supply Company. He has served as president of the First National Bank, of Bridgeville. To Frank E. and Edna Rose (Lutz) Flynn have been born the following children: 1. Joseph, a student. 2. Betty, deceased. 3. Raymond R., a student. 4. Rose Marie, a student. 5. Jerome, deceased. 6. Patricia L., a student. 7. John, deceased. Mr. Flynn is an independent voter in his poltical views. As a young man Mr. Flynn served as city councilman, at Carnegie, and was the youngest man ever elected to that body at that time; as a result of his having served on the council a street is named for him, known as Flynn Avenue. He and his family are members of St. Edward's Catholic Church, and he has the following club affiliations: Past Master, fourth degree, the Knights of Columbus; Youngstown Country Club; Warren Rotary Club, past president; director in the Chamber of Commerce, Warren; Warren Community Fund, past chairman; Foreman's Club; and executive committee of the Boy Scout Council of Mahoning County. Mr. Flynn also belongs to the Order of Loretta, being honored by Cardinal Hayes of New York, and in 1935 was Knighted by His Holiness, the Pope, and became a member of the "Order of Constance." Guy L. Nicolette, D. D. S. —One of the prominent young dental surgeons of Columbiana County is Dr. Nicolette, of Leetonia. He was born there Sept. 9, 1908, the son of Charles and Maria M. (Rich) Nicolette. Charles Nicolette and his wife are natives of Naples, Italy. At an early age they emigrated to the United States and settled at Buffalo, N. Y. Later the family removed to Leetonia, where Mr. Nicolette spent 15 years in the employ HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1079 of the McKeffey Iron Company. He was also identified with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a shop foreman for 12 years and six years was connected with the Cherry Valley Iron Works as foreman. He is now in the employ of the Youngstown and Southern Railway Company in the same capacity. Mr. and Mrs. Nicolette are members of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, and he belongs to the Eagles Lodge. They are the parents of the following children: 1. Anthony 0., a physical director in the Chicago public schools. 2. Joan, married Frank Guerrier, of Leetonia. 3. Jensie. 4. Guy L., subject of this sketch. 5. Anna. 6. Julia. 7. Carmel. 8. Arthur. 9. George. All live at home. Following his graduation from Leetonia High School in 1926, Guy L. Nicolette was employed by the Cherry Valley Iron Works. He later entered the University of Pittsburgh and was graduated from the College of Dentistry in 1932. At that time he established his present practice at Leetonia. Dr. Nicolette is a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church and belongs to Delta Sigma Delta and Omicron Kappa Upsilon fraternities. He also belongs to the Gordon Palmer Dental Society, and is affiliated with the Eagles lodge. Politically he is independent. Ira A. Manderbaugh. —As chief of police in Canton, Mr. Manderbaugh has a wide acquaintance throughout Stark County and is highly esteemed. He was born in this city, Sept. 26, 1876, the son of Ira C. and Alice (Herbst) Manderbaugh. Ira C. Manderbaugh, who died in 1916, was a native of Stark County, as was his wife. She died in 1930. They are buried at Akron and Canton respectively. Throughout his life Mr. Manderbaugh was a machinist. Politically he was a Democrat. There were four children in the Manderbaugh 1080 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO family, two of whom survive: Ira A., the subject of this sketch; and Fred, lives at Canton. Following his graduation from the public schools of Canton, Ira C. Manderbaugh followed the trade of blacksmith for ten years. In 1901 he became a member of the Canton fire department, and in 1907 transferred to the police department, with which he was identified for nine years. He also spent a year in the office of Sheriff Frank Norwood, and in February, 1917, returned to the police department. He continued on the force until his retirement as captain in 1932. He received his present appointment as chief of the Canton police department on Jan. 1, 1935. Mr. Manderbaugh has served as vice president of the Police and Firemen's Association of Canton since 1933, and for two years was financial secretary of the Fraternal Order of Police. In 1904 Mr. Manderbaugh married Miss Lillian Eva Smith, of Canton, daughter of John and Ellen (Shanower) Smith, natives of Massillon. The former died in 1930 and the latter resides at Canton. Mr. and Mrs. Manderbaugh have no children. Mr. Manderbaugh is a member of the First Christian Church and is affiliated with the Eagles Lodge. Politically he is a Democrat. J. Homer Morrison. —Identified with the industrial and business interests of Mahoning County, Mr. Morrison is widely known as the superintendent of the Blooming Mill of the Sharon Steel Hoop Company, at Lowellville. He was born at Struthers, Ohio, March 10, 1892, the son of Dr. W. A. and Mary E. (Hazen) Morrison. Dr. W. A. Morrison, deceased, was a representative physician and surgeon of Mahoning County. He was born in Lawrence County, Pa., Feb. 14, 1857, the son of James F. HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1081 and Anna (Mehard) Morrison. The latter owned and operated a general mercantile business at Wittenberg, Pa., for many years. His son, Dr. W. A. Morrison, attended the district schools and in 1879 received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Washington and Jefferson College. He subsequently studied medicine at Western Reserve University, Cleveland, and in 1881 received the degree of Doctor of Medicine at that institution. His entire professional career was spent at Struthers, Ohio. He held membership in the Mahoning County, Ohio State, and American Medical Associations, and was a director of the Struthers Savings & Banking Company. He was a Republican and had served as president of the village council. He was a 32nd degree Mason and also was affiliated with the Knights of Pythias. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried at Poland, Ohio. She was a native of North Sewickly, Pa. Their children were: 1. Gertrude M., married Frank Krill, lives at Struthers. 2. J. Homer, subject of this sketch. J. Homer Morrison grew up at Struthers and obtained his early education in the public schools. He is a graduate of Rayen High School, Youngstown, and spent three years at the University of Pittsburgh. He was then associated with the drug firm of Thoman and Morrison, at Struthers, and in 1915 retired from the firm to enter the employment of the Youngstown Iron & Steel Company. This concern was later absorbed by the Sharon Steel Hoop Company, and in 1918 Mr. Morrison became superintendent of the Blooming Mill plant. On Nov. 19, 1914, Mr. Morrison was united in marriage with Miss Mary Isabel Kennedy, daughter of J. P. and Jennie (Milligan) Kennedy, natives of Mahoning County. The former is deceased and the latter lives in Youngstown. Mr. Kennedy spent many years as vice president and general manager of the Pittsburgh District of the American Bridge 1082 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Company. To Mr. and Mrs. Morrison have been born three children: 1. Jane Mary, a graduate of Poland High School, class of 1934, attends Sullins College, at Bristol, Va. 2. William Robert, attends Poland High School. 3. James Homer, Jr., a student. Mr. Morrison is a Repubican, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and is affiliated with Western Star Lodge No. 21, F. & A. M., Youngstown Chapter No. 93, Buechner Council No. 107 R. & S. M., and Aut-Mori Grotto. He also belongs to Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Hon. Paul Jones. —Widely known and highly respected throughout Mahoning County is Judge Paul Jones, who received the appointment in 1923 as judge of the United States District Court in Northern Ohio. He has been identified with the legal affairs of the community continuously since 1905 and ranks among the county's outstanding attorneys. Judge Jones was born at Youngstown, Nov. 4, 1880, the son of William Brownlee and Mary (Harris) Jones. William Brownlee Jones was born in Youngstown in 1854, the son of Thomas Jones, a leading building contractor of the city for many years. Thomas Jones came from Lisbon to Youngstown in 1832 and was engaged in the construction of the locks on the old canal. He also completed contracts for the erection of some of the early furnaces in the steel plants here. His death occurred in 1872. William Brownlee Jones was identified with the Youngstown Sheet & Tube Company from the earliest days of his business career, and was a stockholder in the concern. He served as auditor. Mr. Jones was a representative man of the city, capable and successful, upright as to character and genial in manner. He held membership in the Presbyterian Church. In 1875 William Brownlee Jones married Miss Mary Harris, and HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1083 they were the parents of four children, of whom Paul, subject of this sketch, was the second. Paul Jones acquired his early education in the grade schools of Youngstown, and in 1899 was graduated from Rayen High School. For two and one-half years he was engaged as a civil engineer in the construction of railroads and steel plants, work he performed during his school vacation. He received a degree from the College of Law, University of Michigan, in 1905, having been admitted to the Ohio State bar during the previous year. He then began a private practice in the city of Youngstown in 1905. His public offices were: during 1912-16 referee in bankruptcy; 1916-18 city solicitor of Youngstown; during 1920-23 judge of the Common Pleas Court of Mahoning County; and in 1923, as mentioned above, he received the appointment of judge of the U. S. District Court. He has offices in the Federal Building, Cleveland. Judge Jones is a member of the Ohio State and American Bar Associations, and belongs to the Lawyers Club of Michigan. On July 5, 1924, Judge Jones was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Bonnell, of Youngstown. They have two children, Paul, Jr., and Mary. Judge Jones is a Republican, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the University Club of Cleveland. P. J. Fusco, M. D., who has offices in the Robins Theatre Building, is one of the leading young physicians and surgeons of Warren, where he has engaged in practice since 1928. He was born at Youngstown, Ohio, Sept. 1, 1900, the son of John and Anne (Concetta) Fusco. John Fusco and his wife are natives of Italy. Until his recent retirement he was interested in the foreign exchange 1084 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO business at Niles. Mr. and Mrs. Fusco have two children: P. J., the subject of this sketch; and Mary Eleanor, at home. P. J. Fusco is a graduate of the public schools of Niles and in 1925 received the degree of Doctor of Medicine at St. Louis University. During the following three years he was attached to St. John's Hospital, Cleveland, and as mentioned above established a private practice in the city of Warren in 1928. He is identified with the Trumbull County, Ohio State, and American Medical Associations, and is a member of the staffs of Riverside and St. Joseph's Hospitals. On Sept. 5, 1931, Dr. Fusco was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Beatrice Guarniera, of Warren, daughter of Frank and Catherine Guarniera. Mr. Guarniera, retired, was a leading real estate dealer of Warren for many years. Mrs. Fusco is a graduate of Georgetown Convent, Washington, D. C. Dr. Fusco is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and is affiliated with the Elks Lodge. George S. Bloomgren. —Highly esteemed and widely known throughout Columbiana County is George S. Bloomgren, who is city engineer of East Liverpool. He was born at Arroyo, Pa., Dec. 2, 1903, the son of Ernest George and Selma (Nelson) Bloomgren. Ernest George Bloomgren was a native of Sweden and died at Warren, Pa., April 17, 1934. His widow, also born in Sweden, resides at Atlanta, Ga. Mr. Bloomgren was educated in a technical institution in Sweden, and worked in the tannery of his father. Later, he came to the United States and located at Watsontown, Pa., where he spent seven years in the Elk Tanning Company. He was then transferred to the company's tannery at Arroyo, Pa., and remained there for 20 years. He was living retired at Warren, Pa., at the time of his death. Mr. Bloomgren was a Republican, a HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1085 member of Grace Methodist Church, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. To Mr. and Mrs. Bloomgren were born the following children: 1. Lillian, married R. Clayton Ewing, lives at New Cumberland, W. Va. 2. Victoria, married J. E. Britcher, lives at Erie, Pa. 3. Raymond, who died in 1918. 4. George S., subject of this sketch. 5. Thelma, married E. J. Devore, lives at Atlanta, Ga. 6. Alice, married George Lucie, lives at Erie, Pa. 7. Rexford, unmarried, lives at Washington, D. C. George S. Bloomgren received his early education in the public schools and in 1921 was graduated from Warren (Pa.) High School. He then spent one year with the Pennsylvania State Highway Department, after which he entered the University of Cincinnati for two years. He also was a student at Ohio Northern University, at Ada, Ohio, for three years, and received a degree in Civil Engineering at that institution in 1927. He began his professional work with Fred Robinson, contractor, at Weirton, W. Va., and in April, 1928, Mr. Bloomgren located at East Liverpool as chief assistant city engineer under Flay Clapsaddle. Since Jan. 15, 1932, Mr. Bloomgren has held the responsible office of city engineer. Mr. Bloomgren is a Republican, a member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. He also belongs to Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. Mr. Bloomgren married Dorothy Case, of Mansfield, Ohio. They have a daughter, Judith. John Edward Creamer. —One of the prominent business men of Ashtabula is John E. Creamer, who is interested in the insurance and bonding business in that city, with offices at 4531 Main Street. He was born in this city, Nov. 3, 1885, the son of Augustus J. and May (Randall) Creamer. Augustus J. Creamer was born in New York. He came to Ashtabula in 1882 and in that year became interested in the 1086 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO dry cleaning and dyeing business which is still conducted under his name. He retired in 1920 and died at Ashtabula, Dec. 10, 1932. His wife is also deceased. Their children were: 1. Mabel, married C. M. Cooper, lives at Ashtabula. 2. J. E., the subject of this sketch. 3. Charles F., lives at Lakewood, Ohio, married Rebecca Mitchell. 4. Jessie M., married L. R. Klumph, lives at Fairport Harbor, Ohio. 5. Jennie, married L. J. Mantel, lives at Akron, Ohio. 6. Clarence A., lives at Hollywood, Calif. He is a graduate of the Indianapolis Conservatory of Music. John Edward Creamer is a graduate of the public schools of Ashtabula. He worked as a newsboy and later as a messenger boy on the Western Union. He also was a delivery boy in the D. L. Davis department store. As a young man, Mr. Creamer went to work in the Ashtabula post office. In 1910 he was appointed manager of the first postal savings bank which was established in the state of Ohio, at Ashtabula, and in 1920 he resigned from that position to organize the Creamer-Reed Clothing Company in this city. He was thus identified with the business interests of the city until 1930, when he entered the insurance field as a representative of numerous important companies in this district. Mr. Creamer has served as president of the Exchange Club, and president of the Ashtabula Retail Merchants Board. On June 23, 1914, Mr. Creamer was united in marriage with Miss Eva Mott, of Cortland, N. Y., daughter of William and Sarah Mott. The former is deceased and the latter lives at Conneaut. Mr. and Mrs. Creamer have no children. Politically, Mr. Creamer has always been a Republican, and he has served as a delegate to numerous state conventions. He is prominent in civic and fraternal circles, being affiliated with Harbor Lodge No. 558 F. & A. M., Chapter, Council and Commandery; B. P. 0. Elks, past district deputy grand exalted ruler, Ohio Northeast District of Elks Clubs; HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1087 Eagles Lodge; and Loyal Order of Moose. During the past 14 years he has served as a director of the Ashtabula Community Fund. Emmett Davies Graybill. —Prominent among the able young lawyers of Stark County is Emmett Davies Graybill, of Massillon, who is a member of the Stark County, Ohio State, American, and Massillon Bar Associations. He also served as city solicitor during 1931-33. Mr. Graybill was born at East Greenville, Stark County, July 16, 1901, the son of Herbert Clifton and Elizabeth Mary (Davies) Graybill. Herbert Clifton Graybill is a substantial citizen of Massillon and has been connected with the local post office as a carrier since 1908. He is a native of Stark County and his wife was born in Wales. He has always been a Republican, is a member of Wesley Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge. There were 11 children born to Mr. and Mrs. Graybill: 1. Charles Haddon, lives at Massillon. 2. Herbert Clifton, Jr., lives at Canton. 3. Emmett Davies, subject of this sketch. 4. Myron Willard, U. S. Navy, stationed at Annapolis, Md. 5. Roger Wade, lives at Canton. 6. Catherine Elizabeth, lives at Canton. 7. Marjorie Grace, attends Mt. Union College. 8. Wayne Edison, a student. 9. Robert Howard, a student. 10. Doris Enid, a student. 11. William Howard, a student. Following his graduation from Massillon High School in 1921, Emmett Davies Graybill entered Mt. Union College. He later was a student at Ohio Northern University, and in 1928 was graduated from the Akron Law School. He was admitted to the bar during that year, and immediately established a general practice in this city. On Feb. 8, 1926, Mr. Graybill was united in marriage with Miss Dorothy Bankerd, born at Alliance, Ohio, April 10, 1088 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO 1904, daughter of William and Pearl (South) Bankerd. Both are natives of Stark County and reside at Alliance. Mrs. Graybill is a graduate of Mt. Union College, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Mr. and Mrs. Graybill have a son, E. Davies, born Nov. 1, 1931. Mr. Graybill is a Republican, a member of Wesley M. E. Church, and belongs to the Elks Lodge, and Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Ralph F. Mateer. —Identified with Ralph F. Mateer & Company, certified public accountants, with offices in the Second National Bank Building, Mr. Mateer ranks among Warren's representative business men. He is also manager of the Warren Telephone Company. Mr. Mateer was born at Girard, Ohio, May 3, 1901, the son of L. R. and Lucy (Schoenfeld) Mateer. L. R. Mateer is a native of Ohio, born at Mt. Gilead. His wife was born at Girard. His early life was spent on a farm and he attended the public schools. He is a graduate of Ohio Northern University, at Ada, where he specialized in the study of pharmacy, and Mr. Mateer conducted a drug business at Girard, Ohio, until 1918. He then served as safety director for the A. M. Byers Steel Company, at Girard, until his retirement in 1929. Mr. Mateer is a Republican, and has held the offices of village treasurer and school board member. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. She was a teacher in the Girard public schools before her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Mateer were born the following children: 1. E. Ross, lives at Girard. 2. Ralph F., subject of this sketch. Ralph F. Mateer attended the grade and high schools of Girard, from which he was graduated in 1918. He then was employed by the Briar Hill Steel Company, and at the same HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1089 time attended the evening sessions of the Youngstown Institute of Technology. He remained in the former concern's employ until 1921, and then became identified with Roy T. Bell certified public accountant. Two years later, in association with C. S. Alverson and Mr. Bell, the firm of Roy T. Bell & Company was established with offices at Youngstown and Warren. In 1928 the partnership was dissolved and at that time Mr. Mateer organized his present company, Ralph F. Mateer & Company, certified public accountants. In September, 1930, Mr. Mateer married Miss Ann Ward, of Warren, daughter of Daniel and Christine Ward. They are residents of this city. Politically, Mr. Mateer has always been a Republican. He and his wife are active members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is affiliated with the Masonic and Elk lodges, Rotary Club, Buckeye Club, and Trumbull Country Club. Paul Porter, who is superintendent of schools at Johnston, is among the well known educators of Trumbull County. He was born in Portage County, Ohio, March 28, 1897, the son of James and Ella (Fox) Porter. James Porter was born at Cleveland, Ohio, Aug. 4, 1852. His father was killed in service during the Civil War and his mother also died when he was a small child. For a number of years James Porter was employed by the old Niles Car Works, and now lives retired at Johnston. His wife is a native of Wisconsin, born Feb. 4, 1854. Their children were: 1. Dorothy, died in infancy. 2. Paul, subject of this sketch. 3. Earl, mechanical engineer, lives at Cleveland, Ohio. Paul Porter acquired his early education at Niles and was graduated from Niles High School in 1915. He received the degree of Bachelor of Science at Ohio Northern University in 1918, where he specialized in the study of chemical 1090 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO engineering. His Master's degree was received in 1934 from the University of Pittsburgh. Mr. Porter served during the World War in the chemical service at Washington, D. C., and was discharged in December, 1918. He then returned to Niles as a chemical engineer with the Republic Rubber Company, and in 1921, when the plant was closed, Mr. Porter became a substitute teacher in the Johnston schools. He has continued in school work to the present time and has been principal and superintendent since 1918. On Sept. 12, 1920, Mr. Porter married Miss Frances Shanks, of Ada, Ohio, the daughter of William and Frances Shanks. Both are deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Porter were born two children: 1. Jean, born July 13, 1921. 2. William, born March 12, 1924. Mr. Porter is an active member of the Community Church at Johnston, of which he is also trustee, and he is affiliated with Niles Lodge F. & A. M., American Legion, Phi Delta Kappa fraternity, and the Grange, 7th degree. He also takes a prominent part in the county and state school and teachers' organizations. Samuel George Edgar. —As president of the Massillon Commercial Institute and the Commercial Advertising Agency, Mr. Edgar holds a prominent place in the business and educational life of the city of Massillon. He was born at Minksville, Harrison County, Ohio, March 13, 1885, the son of Samuel D. and Susan (Poulson) Edgar. Samuel D. Edgar was born in Monroe County, Ohio, Aug. 31, 1842, and died May 14, 1923. His wife was born there March 14, 1852, and died April 14, 1913. They are buried at Minksville. Throughout his life Mr. Edgar was interested in general farming and was widely known as a sheep raiser. He served during the Civil War as a private and was at- HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1091 tached first to the 98th Ohio Volunteer Infantry and later transferred to the 74th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was a Republican and held membership in the Disciples Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Edgar the following children were born: 1. Frank S., lives near Cadiz, Ohio. 2. James H., lives near Cadiz. 3. Lillie Belle, died in 1914, was the wife of C. L. Morris. 4. Louis D., lives at Delaware, Ohio. 5. John W., died in 1889. 6. Samuel George, subject of this sketch. 7. Lulu Blanche, married F. C. Scott, lives at Morgantown, W. Va. Samuel George Edgar spent his boyhood on a farm and attended the rural schools. In 1905 he was graduated from Thompson Preparatory Academy, at Columbus, and during the following two years was a teacher in the district schools of Athens and Nottingham townships, Harrison County. He subsequently was graduated from the old Ohio Valley Business Academy at Wheeling, W. Va., and remained there as a member of the faculty for two years. Mr. Edgar is a graduate of the Zanerian School of Pen Art, at Columbus. He was a member of the faculty of Columbus Business College for two years, and also taught in the McCormick School at Chicago, Ill. In 1907 Mr. Edgar came to Massillon and in that year organized a commercial department in the Massillon High School, with which he was identified until 1916. He spent the following two years as secretary and treasurer of the National Garment Company at Massillon, and on June 15, 1918, entered the Ohio Banking & Trust Company as assistant cashier and director. In 1925 when that institution merged with the Merchants National Bank and formed the Ohio Merchants Trust Company, Mr. Edgar became assistant cashier, secretary and director. In October, 1932, he organized the Commercial Advertising Agency, of which he is now president. It is an auxiliary of the Massillon Commercial Institute. In 1920 the Massillon Chamber of Corn- 1092 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO merce assumed control of the Massillon Commercial College and elected Mr. Edgar as president, although he took no active part in the institution until October, 1932. The Massillon Commercial Institute has an average enrollment of 100 students and is connected with Massillon Commercial College. It has complete courses in all commercial subjects as well as sociology, psychology, geography, salesmanship, business administration, and commercial law. Full office procedure is carried on in the institution. A monthly student publication is known as "The Quill". The Massillon Commercial Advertising Agency specializes in all types of photolithic printing, and also plans and carries out advertising campaigns by direct mail. On Sept. 4, 1919, Mr. Edgar married Miss Emma G. Swinehart, born at Massillon, Dec. 28, 1895, daughter of William and Emma (Kirkland) Swinehart. Both were natives of Massillon and died Aug. 23, 1929, and May 23, 1923, respectively. Mr. Swinehart was a stationary engineer and spent 38 years in the employ of the Ohio Public Service Company at Massillon. He was a Republican and held membership in the Christian Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Edgar have been born two children: 1. Mary Alice, born Oct. 4, 1923. 2. Samuel George, III, born Aug. 28, 1929. Mr. Edgar is a Republican, a member of the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. He has served as a member of the Massillon Board of Education. He and his wife are prominent members of the Christian Church. C. W. Harshman. —Numbered among the substantial citizens and progressive business men of Trumbull County is C. W. Harshman, who is interested in the lumber business at Mineral Ridge, and he also holds the office of county commissioner. Mr. Harshman was born in Lordstown Town- HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1093 ship, Trumbull County, July 3, 1863, the son of Jacob and Catherine (Jones) Harshman. Jacob Harshman, who died in 1885, was a native of Washington County, Pa. He was fifteen years old when he came to Ohio with his parents and settled in Lordstown Township, Trumbull County, where he later served as justice of the peace for 36 years. The original Harshman homestead is still in possession of the family, its earliest members having settled in Lordstown Township in 1836. They came to this country from Germany and located in Maryland in 1752. Later, the family removed to Washington County, Pa., before coming to Ohio. Catherine (Jones) Harshman was born near Carlisle, Pa., and died in 1883. Both she and her husband are buried at Lordstown. They were the parents of 11 children, only two of whom survive: Lucy R., lives at Mineral Ridge; and C. W., subject of this sketch. The boyhood of C. W. Harshman was spent at Lordstown and he attended the district schools. He has been a resident of Mineral Ridge since 1889. During his early life he taught school at Niles, Ohio, and for four years was superintendent of the high school at Gustavus. At the latter place he founded the first centralized school in Ohio and this section of the country. Mr. Harshman's total teaching experience amounted to 24 years and he retired from that profession in 1902, although he taught for two years during the World War at Girard and Mineral Ridge. During 1903-12 he was secretary of the Mineral Ridge Manufacturing Company, and he then engaged in road contracting until 1921. He has since been interested in the lumber business at Mineral Ridge and has a well established retail trade. In 1886 Mr. Harshman was united in marriage with Miss Cora L. Park, who died in 1907. She is buried in Union Cemetery, Niles. Her parents were John B. and Mary Ann (Kline) Park, who were natives of Trumbull County. Mr. 1094 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Park came to Ohio from Vermont in 1831 and lived to the age of 97 years. His death occurred in 1891 and he is buried at Niles. To C. W. and Cora L. (Park) Harshman were born three children: 1. Willard A., born in 1894, a graduate of Rayen High School, Youngstown. He married Miss Lida Flint and lives at Mineral Ridge. He is also a world War veteran and belongs to the American Legion. 2. Dena C., born in 1896, a graduate of Warren High School, attended Mt. Union College, Ohio State University and the University of Wisconsin. She married Caldwell B. Richardson, of Fredericksburg, Ohio, and they reside at Madison, Wis. They have two children, Martha E., and Caldwell B., Jr. 3. Frank S., born in 1899, a graduate of Niles High School, is associated in business with his father. Mr. Harshman has always been a Republican. He has held the office of county commissioner of Trumbull County since January, 1933. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. He has also served as a member of the local school board. Hon. John Gordon Cooper. —As candidate for the 11th consecutive term as a member of the House of Representatives, Congressman John G. Cooper has the distinction of being the first Ohioan to serve so many straight terms in Congress. He is truly recognized as Youngstown's most influential citizen and is highly esteemed throughout the entire Mahoning Valley. In point of continuous service he stands 14th among the 432 congressmen of the United States. Mr. Cooper was born at Staffordshire, England, April 27, 1872, the son of Joseph and Mary (Toy) Cooper. The Cooper family came to the United States in 1880 and settled in the Mahoning Valley. He went to school in HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1095 Youngstown but just finished grade school when he was compelled to go to work at the age of 13 years. No wonder that way back, many, many years ago he introduced the first child labor law in Congress, and has fought for it ever since. In 1896 he became a fireman on the Pennsylvania Railroad and four years later was promoted to engineer. He served in the latter capacity until 1915, when he resigned. During 1911-15 he was a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, and in November, 1914, was elected to Congress to represent the 19th district. Although as a ranking minority member on the House interstate and foreign commerce committee, one of the most important committees, he is privileged to be absent from House deliberations. He seldom misses a roll call or debate on an important bill. Twenty years ago Mr. Cooper was a newcomer in the House. Never a great orator, he modestly kept in the background. He did not rush to introduce bills or hurry to make his maiden speech with much "flag waving," but he made friends. He made them on both sides of the House, and today has the distinction of enjoying the confidence, not only of Republican leaders but also of Democrats, who many times turned to him in weighty questions. Thoroughly conversant with House procedure, with its little quirks of parliamentary rules, Mr. Cooper, as a member of the powerful steering committee, has helped the Democratic administration many times in the last two years to smooth the path before important bills. "I place the welfare of the country above partisanship," Cooper says, "The country first and the party next is always my motto." Mr. Cooper is valued highly in Washington. Twenty years of steady service has made him hundreds of friends and very few enemies in the legislative halls. On March 7, 1896, Mr. Cooper married Miss Elizabeth M. Harries. 1096 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Mr. Cooper has always been a Republican. He is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Pythias, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. He also belongs to the Warren Country Club. Mr. Cooper's biography appears in "Who's Who" in America. R. Clyde Butler. —Widely and favorably known in Youngstown is Mr. Butler, who is blast furnace superintendent of the Sharon Steel Hoop Company. He is active in civic and community affairs in the city and prominently identified with Y. M. C. A. work here. Mr. Butler was born at Youngstown, April 5, 1890, the son of Samuel and Mary A. (McCann) Butler. Samuel Butler is a well known resident of Youngstown. He is a native of London, England, and his wife was born in Canada. At the age of five years he came to this country with his parents who settled at Youngstown, and he has continued in residence in this city to the present time. For several years he was connected with the Carnegie Steel Company, later with the Republic Steel Company, and at present is actice deputy sheriff of Mahoning County. Mr. Butler is a Republican and a member of the Episcopal Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Butler were born three sons, all of whom live in this city: R. Clyde, the subject of this sketch. 2. Earl, a World War veteran. 3. Randall. Samuel Butler is the son of Richard Butler, a native of England. He was among the oldest employes of the BrownBonnell Company, and a pioneer in the steel business of Youngstown. He is deceased and is buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, Youngstown. Following his graduation from the public schools of Youngstown, R. Clyde Butler entered Youngstown College, HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1097 where he specialized in the study of chemistry and metallurgy. He began his professional work as a chemist with the Republic Iron & Steel Company, later was chemist and assistant superintendent of the Ohio Iron & Steel Company, and in 1922 became blast furnace operator with the Sharon Steel Hoop Company. Subsequently he assumed his present duty as glass furnace superintendent. In 1916 Mr. Butler was united in marriage with Miss Lila Hewitt, daughter of Henry Hewitt, a native of Pennsylvania. He is a retired farmer and lives at New Middleton, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Butler have a daughter, Joan. Mr. Butler is a Republican and holds membership in the Southern Hills Country Club. He is well known throughout Mahoning County as a basketball and football official, and has been a member of the Ohio Northern Conference and Little Ohio Conference. In Y. M. C. A. work in the city he has been awarded a trophy for two successive years for work in increasing membership in the Business Mens Club of the organization. Ralph M. Ostrander. —Identified with the law firm of Alvord, Blakely & Ostrander, of Painesville, Mr. Ostrander has long been recognized as one of the most prominent attorneys and representative citizens of Lake County. He was born in Leroy Township, Lake County, July 6, 1886, the son of George L. and Gertrude Mary (Mason) Ostrander. George L. Ostrander was born at East Concord, Erie County, N. Y., and came to Lake County, Ohio, in 1859, when he was three years old. His parents settled on a farm in Leroy Township and throughout his life Mr. Ostrander was interested in general farming. He sold his farm in 1934 and removed to Painesville, where he died soon after, at the age of 77 years. He was the son of Solomon Ostrander, who 1098 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO was a native of New York and of Holland descent. He was a farmer and served throughout the Civil War as a member of the 14th Ohio Battery, being in service for two years and ten months. He was wounded at the seige of Atlanta. Solomon Ostrander died about thirty years ago. His wife was Margaret Williamson whose father was of Scotch descent and her mother was a native of Holland. Gertrude Mary (Mason) Ostrander was born on the Ostrander homestead in Leroy Township, Lake County, and lived there until 1933. She now resides at Painesville. Her father was Hiram Mason, who was born in Perry Township, Lake County. He died in 1892 at the age of 70 years. His father also was a prominent pioneer of this section and had come here from Vermont about 1840 before the organization of Lake County. To George L. and Gertrude Mary (Mason) Ostrander were born three children: 1. Ralph M., subject of this sketch. 2. Ellen, a teacher at Painesville. 3. Ethel, who is employed in the office of the Land Title & Guarantee Company, at Cleveland. The boyhood of Ralph M. Ostrander was spent at Painesville and he was graduated from Painesville High School in 1905. He spent two years at Oberlin College during 1906-8, and then entered the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated in 1911 with the degree of LL. B. Following his admission to the Ohio and Michigan bars in June, 1911, Mr. Ostrander engaged in private practice for a short time at Painesville. He then went to Cleveland until 1915, and upon his return to Painesville Mr. Ostrander practiced law alone until 1925 when the firm of Alvord, Blakely, Ostrander & Slocum was organized. In 1928 Mr. Slocum was elected judge, and the firm continued as Alvord, Blakely, Ostrander & Nye until the death of Mr. Nye in October, 1929. While practicing law in Cleveland, Mr. Ostrander was associated with the firm of Fauver, Thomsen & Gaston. HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1099 On Dec. 30, 1911, Mr. Ostrander was united in marriage with Miss Charlotte Crary, of Kirtland, Ohio, daughter of William R. Crary and Caroline (Davis) Crary. Mr. Crary was born in Lake County, Ohio, his father having settled here in 1810. He was the son of Christopher Crary. The Davis family originally came from New England and later moved from Ohio to Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs. Ostrander were born four children: 1. Jean, employed in the office of the county treasurer at Painesville. 2. George, attends Painesville High School. 3. Edward, a student. 4. Nancy, a student. Mr. Ostrander has always been a Republican, and during 1921-25 was prosecuting attorney of Lake County. He is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, and belongs to the Kiwanis Club. Addison D. Moreland, who is president of the Geneva Wholesale Oil & Gas Company, is among the progressive business men of Ashtabula County. He was born at Saybrook, Ohio, in 1886, the son of John and Melissa (Murphy) Moreland. John Moreland, deceased, was a native of Saybrook, where he spent his entire life. He was employed on the old Lake Shore Railroad. He died in 1871 and his wife, a native of Geauga County, died in 1876. Their children were: 1. Weldy, who died in 1909. 2. Winifred Eggleston, who died in 1919. 3. George, lives at Lima. 4. Addison D., the subject of this sketch. 5. Elizabeth Bonnell who died in 1904. 6. Minnie, who died at the age of two years. Addison D. Moreland grew up in Ashtabula County and received his education in the district schools. Soon he went to work with the Walter L. Main circus, and spent 20 years with that organization. During that time he traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada. He retired 1100 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO in 1907 and two years later became interested in the automobile business at Geneva, Ohio, as a partner of C. B. Gladding. They conducted the G. & M. Garage there and were distributors for the Ford and Studebaker automobiles until 1919. At that time Mr. Moreland retired from the firm. In 1924 he engaged in the oil business and with several associates was identified with the organization of the Geneva Wholesale Oil & Gasoline Company, and he has since served as its president. Until 1930 he also owned and managed a service station at Forest and East Main streets, Ashtabula. It was then leased to the Standard Oil Company of Ohio. Mr. Moreland was connected with the First National Bank during 1907-26 and served as its vice president for 18 years. In 1887 Mr. Moreland was united in marriage with Miss Florence B. Brown, daughter of Solomon and Caroline (Langworthy) Brown, natives of Beaver Falls, Pa., and Batavia, N. Y., respectively. Mr. Brown died in 1894 and his wife died in 1916. They are buried at Trumbull. Mr. and Mrs. Moreland have no children. Mr. Moreland is a Republican and has held numerous public offices, including member of the city council, president of the water board, and member of the board of public affairs. He has been a member of the Elks lodge since 1902 and is also affiliated with Hartsgrove Lodge F. & A. M. His wife is affiliated with the Order of Eastern Star, Geneva Chapter. John Milton Hughes. —Outstanding among the representative business men of Youngstown may be mentioned John Milton Hughes, who is vice president of the Sharon Steel Hoop Company, of Sharon, Pa. He was born at Bridgeport, Ohio, June 11, 1885, the son of Edward Pritchard and Marguerite (Davies) Hughes. HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1101 Edward Pritchard Hughes was born in Wales, as was his wife. He was a miner and spent many years in the coal mines of Ohio. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried at Brookfield, Ohio. Their children were: 1. Elizabeth Gibson, lives at Detroit, Mich. 2. Esther Ramage, lives at Youngstown. 3. Winifred Kirby, lives at Brookfield. 4. Edward, lives at Brookfield. 5. Deborah Zimmer, lives at Sharon, Pa. 6. Martha Dunkerley, lives at Brookfield. 7. Roger, lives at Brookfield. 8. John Milton, the subject of this sketch. The early education of John Milton Hughes was received in the public schools of Brookfield and he later attended the night school of the Sharon College of Commerce. He also took correspondence work at the International Correspondence School. His career began as an office boy in 1899 with the J. V. Rose Brick Company. In 1901 he became identified with the Sharon Steel Hoop Company and during 1902-03 was employed by the Carnegie Steel Company. In 1904-06 he was open hearth and blooming mill clerk with the Sharon Steel Hoop Company; during 1907-16 was assistant to the steel works superintendent; during 1917-20 was superintendent of the open hearth and blooming mill; during 192125 was assistant to the steel work superintendent, Lowellville Works, Sharon Steel Hoop Company; during 1926-31 was superintendent of the Lowellville Works; in 1932 was general manager; and in 1933 became vice president of the company. On June 3, 1909, Mr. Hughes married Miss Grace Mabel Waddell, of Coalburg, Ohio, daughter of John and Catherine (Richart) Waddell, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of Germany. Mr. Waddell died in 1923 and his wife died in 1916. To Mr. and Mrs. Hughes were born two children: 1. Shirley Grace Ball, lives at 1064 Hawthorne Street, Youngstown. 2. Harry Waddell, attends Purdue University. 1102 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Mr. Hughes is a Republican and has served as township treasurer for six years. He and his family are members of Central Christian Church, Youngstown. His lodge affiliations are: Past Master, Masonic Blue Lodge; Royal Arch Mason; Royal and Select. Masters; Past Commander, Cornmandery K. T.; Lake Erie Consistory, 32nd degree; and Al Koran Temple. J. Ralph Seidner. —Among the highly esteemed and influential citizens of Youngstown and Mahoning County is J. Ralph Seidner, who is a member of one of the prominent pioneer families of this section. He was born at Youngstown, May 27, 1885, the son of Jonathan and Belle (Morgan) Seidner. Jonathan Seidner, deceased, was a leading business man of Youngstown for many years, being the proprietor of a wall paper and decorating establishment. He was a Republican, a member of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, and belonged to the Knights of Pythias. To Mr. and Mrs. Seidner were born three children: 1. J. Ralph, subject of this sketch. 2. Helen, married James Jones, lives at Portsmouth, Ohio. 3. George, lives at Youngstown. The Seidner family originally came from Maryland, where they had settled in 1790. About 1794 two brothers came to Ohio and located at Lisbon. In 1803 members of the family removed to Petersburg, Ohio. There are many descendants of the original founder of the family established throughout the United States. The boyhood of J. Ralph Seidner was spent in Youngstown and he attended the public schools. During 1904-6 he was physical director of the Y. M. C. A., at Charlotte, N. C., and during 1906-9 he was identified with his father's business in Youngstown. He became the city's first representative HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1103 of the Ford Motor Car Company in 1909 and continued in the automobile business until his retirement in 1929. He also became interested in aviation in 1921 and obtained a license during that year. He developed a private flying field of 85 acres and has continued his interest in flying to the present time. In 1905 Mr. Seidner was united in marriage with Miss Matilda Jones, daughter of William and Sarah (Huish) Jones, natives of Mahoning County. He is a retired employe of the Carnegie Steel Company and lives at Youngstown. To Mr. and Mrs. Seidner were born two children: 1. Sara-belle, a graduate of Ohio State University, married William Junge, lives at Youngstown. 2. J. Ralph, Jr., aviator, U. S. Government service. He married Esther Williams and they have a son, J. Ralph, 3rd. Mr. Seidner is a prominent Democrat and takes an active interest in national affairs. He is affiliated with Hilman Lodge No. 481, F. & A. M., and Aut-Mori Grotto. His estate of thirteen acres is located on Brookwood Drive. John A. Willo. —One of the most prominent attorneys of the city of Youngstown is John A. Willo, who is a descendant of sturdy stock of the caliber which contributed so largely to the rapid growth and gigantic upbuilding of the Mahoning Valley. He is the son of Michael and Line (Roth) Willo, natives of that part of Hungary which is now known as the republic of Czecho Slovakia. His father was born in the village of Stras, on June 18, 1863, and his mother in the village of Hrusor, July 11, 1865. In the middle eighties the parents of John A. Willo, imbued with their national consciousness, and desiring to cling to their birthright and their Slovak nationality, and desiring to escape the Magyar yoke, under which they and their 1104 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Slovak brethren had groaned as a subjugated and oppressed people for centuries, migrated from imperialistic and chauvenistic Hungary to free America, which offered an asylum to people of foreign birth who chose to come and settle upon its soil, which had institutions that encouraged everyone, who had industry and ability to rise from the humblest to the highest position in the land, and where the political atmosphere was purified by the breezes of liberty and equality. Shortly after reaching the shores of America, the father and mother settled in the Mahoning Valley and there they have lived, playing at all times prominent roles as Slovak-American pioneers in every movement that has helped to make the Mahoning Valley the great cosmopolitan center which it is today. For many years the father was one of the most outstanding progressive merchants, bankers and civic leaders, of Slavonic origin, with which the community was blessed. John A. Willo obtained his early education in St. Joseph's parochial school at Youngstown. In the fall of 1903 he matriculated at Canisius Preparatory School, at Buffalo, N. Y., from which he was graduated with honors in 1907. He then entered Holy Cross College, at Worcester, Mass., and also attended Georgetown University, at Washington, D. C., from which he was graduated in 1912 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. While at Holy Cross College he was overwhelmingly chosen by the popular vote of the large student body as grand marshal of "Holy Cross Night"—the highest honor in the hands of the student body to confer upon one of their members. Having a natural ability and inclination toward the legal profession as was evidenced by his rich forensic talents, which manifested themselves in collegiate debates in which he participated in Holy Cross and at Georgetown—winning prizes in both institutions—he chose it for his life work. HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1105 He studied law at Columbia University in the city of New York, and while at Columbia was one of the founders and the first dean of the Dwight Senate of the Delta Theta Phi fraternity, a national legal fraternity, which has among its active members such illustrious lawyers as Hon. Newton D. Baker, ex-secretary of war, Hon. Carl V. Weygandt, chief justice of the Supreme Court of the State of Ohio, and of which Hon. Edward Douglass White, the late eminent chief justice of the United States, and Hon. Calvin Coolidge, the late president of the United States, were members. In June, 1914, Mr. Willo was graduated by that university with the degree of Bachelor of Laws, and within a period of several weeks after that he was admitted to practice law in Ohio. On Aug. 17, 1914, he opened his law office in Youngstown as an associate of Hon. William R. Stewart and ever since under his guidance and tutelage, he has successfully practiced his profession as a lawyer, from the lowliest to the highest court in the State of Ohio and adjoining states, and in the Federal Courts of that district. During his professional career of twenty years it has been his lot and privilege to serve the more humble, the poorer, and the underprivileged people as lawyer. In the language of the bar he has been a plaintiff's lawyer and a criminal lawyer, and that is as it should have been because by nature his sympathies always have been and are with the under dog. He knows the lot of the underprivileged man or woman and sympathizes with their aspirations, and knows the pains and griefs of those who struggle, because his forebears have endured these pains, and so has he during the early years of his life. His chief passion has been unselfish devotion and service to his clients. Never has he been afraid to stand against the rich or against the influential, or both, to advocate the just cause of a client, no matter how humble the origin or how low the station in life of that client may have been—his 1106 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO motto being "Right makes Might." Some of the largest verdicts recovered in court and some of the largest amicable settlements made out of court in and about the Mahoning Valley during the past decade or more, were in cases wherein he was the plaintiff's lawyer. His uncanny ability to unravel "confidence schemes" and to effect substantial recoveries for his clients, time and time again, from such internationally known confidence operators as Nicky Arnstein, correctly known as Jules W. Arnstein, and his crafty associates, and from such wily and cunning racketeers as Timo Bimbo, the Gypsy King, and Anna Bimbo, the alluring Gypsy Princess, and their shrewd ilk, has brought him victimized clients from far and near, and he has yet to fail in such a case. During his professional career he has impressed the community with his diligence, fair-mindedness, understanding of people in every walk of life, and with his sane and tolerant attitude toward the views and opinions of his associates, neighbors and fellow citizens. Following in the footsteps of his worthy father during the past twenty years, Mr. Willo has given freely and generously of himself to every civic movement and particularly such as have had to do with the masses of foreign ancestry. Several years ago he was one of the founders, incorporators, and first president of the Slovak-American Political Federation, an organization which moulded into a solid mass the thousands of voters of Slovak ancestry in the Mahoning Valley, for the purpose of promoting their common political and civic welfare in the community. His words, so eloquently spoken at the jubilee celebration of one of the Slovak fraternal organizations, are worthy of quotation: "Notable warriors of Slovak culture, of Slovak nationalism and of genuine Americanism were those early Slovak men and women of America. Shall we be worthy of our predecessors? If we but walk in the footsteps of the Slovaks who have gone before us, all will be well. Our love for our mother tongue, HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1107 for the traditions, customs, and culture of our ancestors must never die. Despite the fact that we are all true Americans first, last and always—it is, nevertheless, but natural that our devoted affections should surge back to the old cradleland, the land which bestowed upon America those sturdy Slovak immigrants who brought with them as their gift to their adopted land a sacred love of God, a deep living faith, and a vigorous honest manhood. And lastly, may the Slovaks of tomorrow, just as the Slovaks of today and yesterday, never be found wanting in their loyalty, their fidelity and their devotion to the noble ideals of genuine Americanism." Mr. Willo is a natural born linguist and a master of several languages, being well known as a public speaker. His address on "George Washington, the Vindicator of the Rights of Humanity," delivered at the Bi-Centennial celebration of the Federated Catholic Slovak Societies of the Mahoning Valley, and his address over the radio advocating the reelection of Peter B. Mulholland for judge, and also his radio talk advocating the reelection of Herbert Hoover will linger in the memory of his hearers for years and years to come. His thumb nail sketch of the history of the Slovak people, their persecutions and eventual salvation, when after the late World War they again took their place among the nations of the world as equal partners in the Republic of CzechoSlovaki, which pamphlet bore the title, "The Slovaks of Yesterday and Today," has received much favorable comment. Exhaustive yet brief, it is a masterful treatise. It was translated into Slovak by Mathew Mraz, Esq., the editor of the Youngstown "Slovak News," and published in that weekly journal serially and generously distributed, not only throughout America, but also in Europe. Mr. Willo is a Republican and he is prominently active in the political life of his community. He is a member of the Mahoning County, Ohio State and American Bar Asso- 1108 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO ciations. He is also a member of the B. P. O. Elks, and the Knights of Columbus. He holds membership in the Catholic Church. On April 11, 1912, at Alexandria, Va., Mr. Willo was united in marriage with Miss Veronica Dorothy O'Brien, a native of Boston, Mass., and daughter of the late Daniel and Johanna (Kelly) O'Brien. Joseph T. Nist. —Highly esteemed throughout Stark County is Joseph T. Nist, sheriff, who is a well known resident of Canton and a veteran of the World War. He was born at Canton, May 10, 1898, the son of Charles H. and Lulu (Eckert) Nist. Charles H. Nist is a native of Canton and during the past 30 years has been a member of the local fire department. He is a Democrat, a member of Martin Lutheran Church, and is affiliated with the Eagles Lodge. His wife is a native of Wooster, Ohio. Their children are: 1. Joseph T., the subject of this sketch. 2. Russel E., who is a captain of the Canton Fire Department. Following his graduation from the public schools of Canton, Joseph T. Nist spent four years as a draftsman in the employ of the Eller Manufacturing Company at Canton. He also was employed in the steel mills and on July 6, 1917, enlisted for service in the World War. He sailed for overseas duty Sept. 1, 1917, and saw active service at the front as an ambulance driver. He was discharged at Camp Sherman, Ohio, July 22, 1919. Shortly thereafter Mr. Nist went to Colorado and in 1921 located in California where he was interested in the motion picture business as manager of theatres for the West Coast Theatre Corporation at Oakland, Calif. He continued in that work until 1925 and upon his return to Ohio Mr. Nist operated the Rivoli Theatre at De- HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1109 fiance. He later served as manager of the Windsor Theatre at Canton, and in 1930 became claim investigator for the Ohio State Industrial Commission. He subsequently organized and managed the Tri County Beverage Company, at Canton, and was identified with that enterprise at the time of his election to the office of sheriff of Stark County. He assumed those duties Jan. 6, 1935. Mr. Nist has always been a Democrat and has the distinction of being the first Democratic sheriff to be elected in Stark County for more than 40 years. He is also a member of the Stark County Democratic Executive Committee. Mr. Nist married (first) in 1920 at Watsonville, Calif., Miss Marguerite Volkman, of San Francisco. She died in 1925. Their son, Joseph Charles, was born at Oakland, in December, 1923. Mr. Nist married (second) in 1927 at Cleveland, Miss Eva Ritchey, of Salem, Ohio. They have no children. Mr. Nist is a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Eagles Lodge, Loyal Order of Moose, Lions, and B. P. 0. Elks. He and his family hold membership in Martin Lutheran Church, and he also belongs to the Orchard Hills Country Club of Canton. Raymond G. Ingersoll. —One of the most widely known citizens of Northeastern Ohio is Raymond G. Ingersoll, of Warren, who is serving as state representative from Trumbull County. He was born in Warren, March 24, 1892, the son of Howard L. and Mary (Wheeler) Ingersoll. The Ingersoll family came to Warren from Guilford, N. Y., in 1882, and Howard L. Ingersoll became successful as a manufacturer of leather goods. He retired from that particular business in 1909 and until his retirement from business he was a well known building contractor at Warren. 1110 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Mr. Ingersoll is a Republican and has served as township trustee. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mary (Wheeler) Ingersoll was born at Guilford, N. Y., and died in 1919. She is buried at Warren. The only child born to Mr. and Mrs. Ingersoll was Raymond G., the subject of this sketch. Raymond G. Ingersoll attended the public schools of Warren and is a graduate of Warren Business College. During 1911-12 he was stationed at Battle Creek, Mich., where he was employed by the engineering department of the Union Steam Pump Company. He then returned to Warren and was associated with his father in the building business until 1917, at which time he enlisted for service in the World War, being a member of Company C, 308th Motor Supply Train, 83rd Division, Motor Transport Corps. After a period of service in this country, Mr. Ingersoll sailed from Boston, Mass., by way of Halifax to Liverpool, England, and later to France, landing there on July 3rd. He was one of 12 men sent to LeMans to establish Supply Base No. 2, and in the latter part of August was commissioned first class sergeant by General Pershing. He served at LeMans until March 28, 1919, and was attached to the 77th Division. He received his discharge on May 8, 1919, and returned to Warren, where he again became identified with the business of his father. During 1924-32 Mr. Ingersoll ranked as the leading architect of the city. He was elected as state representative in November, 1932, and took office on January 1, 1933. He has been a most active member of the Legislature and several important bills have carried his signature. He also was appointed one of two members of the House to serve on the special committee drafting the building and loan legislation which was passed at the Third Special Session in June, 1934. On July 9, 1915, Mr. Ingersoll was married to Miss Lillian M. Fisher, of Warren, daughter of Rev. G. P. Fisher. He HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1111 lives retired at Warren. Rev. Fisher was a well known minister of the First Reformed Church in this city until his retirement. Mr. and Mrs. Ingersoll have a daughter, Meriam W., born at Warren, July 26, 1924. Mr. Ingersoll has always been a Republican. He has served as a member of the city school board (1925-29). He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. He also is prominent in the affairs of the American Legion, having served as post commander at Warren during 1925; vice commander of the department during 1927-28; and member of the special review board from Aug. 15th until Nov. 17th, 1934, at the Cleveland Veterans Bureau by appointment of President Franklin Roosevelt. Layman Ingersoll, great-grandfather of Mr. Ingersoll, was a member of the New York State General Assembly in 1851. George F. Konold. —Representative of the prominent citizens of Trumbull County was George F. Konold, industrial leader of Warren, now deceased. He was born at East Douglas, Mass., June 25, 1864. The Konold family has been prominent in the industrial affairs of Pittsburgh, Pa., for more than half a century, and George F. Konold had extended the family's business interests to the city of Warren, where he was founder of the Warren Tool & Forge Company. A very interesting fact is that the Konolds have been identified with iron forging for many generations, extending as far back as the 16th century. They were prominent in that industry at Frankfort, Germany, which was the birthplace of Christ Konold, who when 14 years of age was brought to the United States. During the residence of the Konold family at Collinsville, Conn., Christ Konold was identified with the Collinsville Axe 1112 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO Company. He possessed all the expert skill of the family as a worker in iron. In 1868 he moved to Pittsburgh where he was one of the founders of the Kloman & Berkley Company, tool makers. In 1874, following the great panic of the preceding year, the company failed, but was subsequently reorganized as the Iron City Tool Works, with Christ Konold as superintendent. He remained in that position until November, 1888. George F. Konold, son of Christ Konold, entered the shops of the Iron City Tool Works, at Pittsburgh, at the age of 15 years. He became a helper, then a hammersmith, and by practical experience acquired a knowledge of every branch of the forge industry. At the time of his father's death in 1888 he was 24 years old, and well equipped and qualified to become his father's successor as superintendent of the plant. That post he filled for 23 years. It was in 1911 that Mr. Konold became identified with the industrial affairs of the city of Warren. He and his brother, M. J. Konold, and J. D. Robertson, of Pittsburgh, organized in that year the Warren Tool & Forge Company. Ground was broken in December of that year and the plant was completed and equipped with machinery of Mr. Konold's special design. The first shipment of products was made in June, 1912. George F. Konold was the practical man of the concern. He was treasurer and general manager of the company. The president was Mr. Robertson and the vice president was M. J. Konold. Both resided at Pittsburgh. Mr. Konold was also president and treasurer of the American Block & Manufacturing Company of Warren; director of the Malleable Iron Company of Warren; and a director of the Tri State Foundry & Machine Company of Wellsburg, W. Va. For years he was a well known figure in the iron and steel industry. He was a member of the American Iron & Steel Institute, and at Warren was actively associated HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1113 with the Board of Trade. He was a member of the advisory board of the Old Colony Club, and was affiliated with the Trumbull Country Club, Warren Rotary Club, and a member of the Executive Board of the Boy Scouts. He was a life member and past master of Corinthian Lodge, F. and A. M., Pittsburgh, and was affiliated with Warren Commandery, K. T., and Al Koran Temple, Cleveland. In 1889 Mr. Konold married Miss Hannah I. Saints, born at Allegheny City, Pa., daughter of William H. and Mary J. (Reynolds) Saints. Her father was a prominent business man and manufacturer of Pittsburgh. Three sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Konold: 1. George F., Jr., born at Pittsburgh, Feb. 2, 1892, a graduate of Western Reserve University, class of 1914. He left his position as secretary of the Warren Tool & Forge Company in 1917 to become a private in the U. S. Army. He latter attended an officers' training school where he was commissioned a second lieutenant. He married Miss Elizabeth Miller, daughter of Edward G. Miller, and they have a daughter, Elizabeth Hannah, born Oct. 22, 1919. He is a member of Old Erie Lodge No. 3, F. and A. M., and B. P. 0. Elks. 2. William S., born June 1, 1898. He is Ohio state commander of the American Legion and resides at Warren. He left school in 1917 to enlist in the U. S. Marine Corps for service in the World War and served on the battleship "Arizona." 3. John Reynolds, born Feb. 2, 1900. He lives at Warren. Berkley E. Jenkins. —A veteran of the World War, Berkley E. Jenkins is among the prominent school superintendents of Northeastern Ohio, being superintendent of schools in Atwater Township, Portage County. He was born at Ironton, Ohio, April 30, 1894, the son of John H. and Elizabeth (Webb) Jenkins. 1114 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO John H. Jenkins and his wife are natives of Lawrence County, Ohio, and throughout his life Mr. Jenkins has been interested in general farming and stock raising. His well improved farm is located near Ironton, Ohio. Mr. Jenkins is a Republican and has held numerous public offices, including that of constable, township trustee, and school director. He is a member of the Baptist Church and belongs to the Farm Bureau and Grange. Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins are the parents of the following children: 1. Myrta, married C. T. Geiger, lives at Ironton. 2. Berkley E., subject of this sketch. 3. Shafter, lives at Ironton. 4. Mary, lives at Toledo. 5. Hazel, married George Davidson, lives at Akron. 6. Wade, lives at Ironton. Berkley E. Jenkins attended the district schools of Lawrence County and in 1910 was graduated from Lebanon High School. He was a student at Lebanon University and Wilmington College, and in 1920 received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Rio Grand College. He subsequently took graduate work and Ohio State and Chicago University, and in 1927 received the degree of Master of Arts at Akron University. He has recently begun work on his degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California. Mr. Jenkins was a teacher in the schools of Lawrence County, Ohio, before his enlistment for service in the World War in May, 1917. He was sent to Fort Thomas, Kentucky, later transferred to Camp Green, South Carolina, and served in France for 14 months as an air service mechanic with the Sixth Company, Third Regiment. He received his discharge as a sergeant in May, 1919. During 1919-24 Mr. Jenkins was principal of Deerfield Township schools, at Deerfield; during 1924-34 was principal of Suffield Township schools at Suffield; and in 1934 became superintendent of Atwater Township schools. He is past president of the Portage County Teachers Association and HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1115 belongs to the Northeastern Ohio Teachers, Ohio Education, and National Education Associations. In 1924 Mr. Jenkins was united in marriage with Miss Ola Conrad, daughter of Ezra and Mary (Gardner) Conrad, natives of Coshocton County, Ohio. Mr. Conrad, a fruit grower, resides at Howe, Florida. His wife is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins are the parents of three children: Helen, Alice, and Wayne. Mr. Jenkins is a member of the Baptist Church, and belongs to the American Legion. His lodge affiliations are: Lawrence Lodge, No. 198, F. & A. M.; LaGrange Chapter, R. A. M.; Ironton Council, R. & S. M.; Ironton Commandery, K. T.; Scioto Consistory 32nd degree; Tadmor Temple; and Knights of Pythias. Albert E. McCully, who is superintendent of Mantua Township Schools, at Mantua Center, is well known in the educational fields of Northeastern Ohio. He was born at Toronto, Canada, April 24, 1904, the son of Oliver and Flora (Boom) McCully. Oliver McCully was born in Ontario, Canada, and his wife is a native of Middlefield Township, Geauga County, Ohio. They reside on a farm near Washingtonville, Ohio. Mr. McCully received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Hiram College and also attended the University of Toronto. He taught school in Montana, Idaho, and Ohio, and retired from the teaching profession in 1934. His wife also has been a teacher most of her life. Their children are: 1. Albert E., the subject of this sketch. 2. Ruth, a graduate of Hiram College, married John Swinterton, architect, lives at Zanesville, Ohio. Mr. McCully is a Democrat, a member of the Christian Church, and former member of the Ohio Teachers, Ohio Education, and National Education Associations. 1116 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO The early education of Albert E. McCully was received in the public schools of the West, and in 1923 he was graduated from Kooskia (Idaho) High School. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Hiram College in 1927, and has since taken graduate work at Kent State Teachers College and Western Reserve University. He will receive his Master degree from Western Reserve University in June, 1935. He began his teaching career at Hopedale, Ohio, in 1927, and two years later became assistant principal of Mantua Township schools. He assumed the duties of superintendent there in 1934. On Jan. 14, 1933, Mr. McCully married Claribel Lark-worthy, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Mr. McCully is a member of the Christian Church and is affiliated with the Northeastern Ohio Teachers Association, Ohio Education Association, and National Education Association. R. A. Strausser, who is superintendent of schools at Waynesburg, is widely and favorably known throughout Stark County. He was born at Canton, Ohio, June 6, 1901, the son of C. B. and Stella (Smith) Strausser. C. B. Strausser and his wife are natives of McDonnellsville, Stark County. They now reside at North Canton. Mr. Strausser is the owner of a fine dairy farm and is also interested in the North Canton Dairy Company. He is a Republican and has served as a member of the North Canton Council. He holds membership in the Reformed Church and Knights of Pythias. To Mr. and Mrs. Strausser were born three sons: 1. R. A., subject of this sketch. 2. Yale, attended Heidelberg College, now secretary-treasurer of the North Canton Dairy Company. 3. Charles, attends North Canton High School. The boyhood of R. A. Strausser was spent in Stark County HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO - 1117 and he is a graduate of Canton High School, class of 1919. He is a graduate of Heidelberg College, Bachelor of Arts, class of 1923, and Columbia University, Master of Arts class of 1928. During 1923-28 he was superintendent of schools at Bettsville, Ohio, and since 1928 has held his present position as superintendent at Waynesburg. He is a prominent member of the Stark County Teachers Association, and belongs to the Northeastern Ohio Teachers, Ohio Education, and National Education Association. He is president of the Stark County Athletic Association, and member of the Alumni Council of Heidelberg College. In 1926 Mr. Strausser married Miss Merna Davey, daughter of Roy and Sarah Davey, natives of New Philadelphia, Ohio. The former is deceased and the latter resides at Navarre, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Strausser have no children. Mr. Strausser is a member of the Reformed Church, and belongs to the Rotary Club, Nu Sigma Alpha fraternity, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Fostoria Lodge, F. & A. M. J. F. Koeppe. —As superintendent of schools at Aurora, Mr. Koeppe is well and favorably known among the leading educators of Northeastern Ohio. He is a native of Ohio, born in Defiance County, Sept. 1, 1892, the son of Frederick and Louise (Schauer) Koeppe. Frederick Koeppe was born in the Province of Posen, Germany, as was his wife. They are residents of Bryan, Ohio, where they have lived since 1920. Mr. Koeppe served for two years in the German Army as a youth. He spent many years as a successful farmer in Defiance County, Ohio, until his retirement. He is a Democrat and holds membership in the Lutheran Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Koeppe were born the following children: 1. Augusta, married Fred Haggeman, lives at Ney, Ohio. 2. William, lives at Nye. 1118 - HISTORY OF NORTHEASTERN OHIO 3. Otto, lives at Defiance. 4. Bertha, married Oney Goller, lives at Ney. 5. Martha, married Orla Snyder, lives at Payne, Ohio. 6. J. F., the subject of this sketch. 7. Laura, married Homer Price, lives at Cleveland. 8. Carl, lives at Cleveland. J. F. Koeppe acquired his early education in the district schools of Defiance County and in 1913 was graduated from Ney High School. He received the degree of Bachelor of Science at Wittenberg College in 1917, later took graduate work at the University of Chicago, and received the degree of Bachelor of Science in Education at Kent State College in 1921. He obtained the degree of Master of Arts at Western Reserve University in 1934. His teaching career follows: Teacher in the Defiance County public schools during 1912- 14 ; assistant principal of schools at Palmyra, Ohio, during 1914-15; superintendent of schools at Amsterdam, Jefferson County, during 1915-16; superintendent of schools at Uniontown, Stark County, during 1916-22; superintendent of schools at Belle Valley, Noble County, during 1922-28; and superintendent at Aurora since 1928. He is a member of the Northeastern Ohio Teachers Association, Ohio Education Association, National Education Association, life member, president of the Kent State Alumni Association, and president of the Portage County Teachers Association. In 1915 Mr. Koeppe married Miss Wilda Wilson, daughter of Allen and Ella Wilson, natives of Ohio, now living retired at Palmyra. To Mr. and Mrs. Koeppe were born two children : 1. Eloise, a graduate of Aurora High School, class of 1934, attends Kent State College. 2. John, attends Aurora High School. Mr. Koeppe and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is affiliated with W. K. Ricksecker Lodge, No. 606, F. & A. M., and Usef-Kahn Grotto. He is past master of Noble Lodge, No. 459, F. & A. M., at Caldwell, Ohio.