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management of David Oldham. He renamed it the Journal-Republican, and conducted it both as a daily and weekly newspaper. As before mentioned, the Sidney Daily Journal was sold to the Sidney Printing & Publishing Company in 1928. Since that date the Sidney Journal (weekly) has been owned and published by the Oldham estate, with Oscar E. Oldham as editor and manager.
Clifford A. Gearhart.—As sheriff of Shelby County, Clifford A. Gearhart is a representative citizen of Sidney and a member of one of the oldest and best known families of this section. He was born on a farm in Perry Township, Shelby County, Ohio, February 13, 1886, the son of Edwin E. and Emma Viola (Ailes) Gearhart.
Edwin E. Gearhart is widely and favorably known in Shelby County, where he has spent his entire life. He was born on a farm in Perry Township and received his education in the district schools. His grandfather was Lewis Gearhart, one of the first settlers of Shelby County. Until 1890 Edwin E. Gearhart farmed in Perry Township, and he then located at Port Jefferson, Ohio, where he conducted an implement business for eight years. He also owned a retail meat business there for several years, but in 1902 came to Sidney, where he conducted a meat business until 1910. In that year he was elected sheriff of Shelby County, and held that office until 1915. Mr. Gearhart has since owned and operated a farm of 160 acres in Washington Township. He is an active Democrat and has also held the offices of township trustee and road supervisor. He is a member of the Church of Christ. His wife is a native of Salem Township, Shelby County. Their children are: 1. Harley, who died in 1898. 2. Clifford A., the subject of this sketch. 3. Bertram Earl, lives at Toledo, Ohio. 4. Homer Francis, lives at Toledo, Ohio. 5. Robert M., who is deputy sheriff of Shelby County, lives at Sidney.
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Clifford A. Gearhart acquired his early education in the public schools of Port Jefferson, Ohio, and as a youth was employed in his father's store at Sidney. During 1911-15 he was deputy sheriff under his father, and from 1915 until 1933 Mr. Gearhart was in the electrical business at Sidney. He also has been successful as a cattle dealer. He has held the office of sheriff of Shelby County since 1932.
On September 8, 1926, Mr. Gearhart was united in marriage with Mrs. Florence (McLain) Ginter, born at Tippecanoe City, Ohio, December 21, 1893, the daughter of William and Bernadine (Otting) McLain, natives of Shelby County. Mr. McLain died in 1923 and his wife died in 1929. They are buried at Sidney. By a former marriage Mrs. Gearhart has two children: 1. Floyd George Ginter, student. 2. Mary B. Ginter, a student.
Mr. Gearhart has always been a Democrat. He is a member of the Holy Angel Catholic Church, and belongs to the Elks Lodge. He also holds membership in the Buckeye Sheriffs Association.
Brent A. Welch, M. D.—Outstanding among the capable young professional men of Shelby County is Doctor Welch, who is successfully engaged in practice at Sidney, with offices at 211 North Main Street. He was born in this city, September 1, 1897, the son of Timothy W. and Margaret Olive (Boyle) Welch.
Timothy W. Welch resides at 129 South Walnut Street, Sidney. He was born at Hagerstown, Indiana, June 26, 1866, and his wife was born at Fairfield, Franklin County, Ohio, April 11, 1869. He was left an orphan as a child and was reared and educated by Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Griffis, later being identified with the Griffis grain elevators at Dawson, Ohio, for six years. He then came to Sidney as a stationary engineer with the old Sidney Body Company, and later was engineer for the Griffis Grain Elevator Company, at Sidney for two years. He spent six years with the bridge de-
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partment of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, and then followed the trade of carpenter for 12 years. In 1904 Mr. Welch went with the Chamberlain Metal Weatherstrip Company, of Detroit, Michigan, as district representative in 12 counties in West Central Ohio. He still serves in that capacity. Mr. Welch is a Republican and holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Timothy W. Welch is the son of John Welch, a native of Ireland, who died at Sidney in 1870. He was a Civil War veteran and came to Ohio from Indiana during the early days.
Margaret Olive (Boyle) Welch is the daughter of Sylvester Hays Boyle, who was born in Van Wert County, Ohio, June 9, 1843. He now resides at Sidney. He also is a Civil War veteran, and served as a private in the Ninety-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was interested in general farming in Franklin and Shelby counties until his retirement in 1908. Mr. Boyle is a Republican, a member of the United Brethren Church, and belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic. His father was Michael Boyle, born in Delaware in 1808. He spent many years on the old Cincinnati and Toledo canal, and later was a farmer. He is buried at Houston, Ohio.
To Timothy W. and Margaret Olive (Boyle) Welch only one child was born, Brent A., the subject of this sketch.
The early education of Brent A. Welch was acquired in the public schools of Sidney, from which he was graduated in 1916. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Miami University
in 1920 and the degree of Doctor of Medicine at the University of Michigan in 1925. He then began his professional work at Jackson Center, Ohio, after a year as interne in the Western Pennsylvania Hospital, at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Doctor Welch has been located at Sidney since January, 1930, and is already numbered among the leading physicians and surgeons of this section.
During the World War, Doctor Welch served with the Student Army Training Corps, at Hamilton, Ohio. He was discharged in
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October, 1918, and now holds the commission of first lieutenant in the Fifteenth Medical Regiment, United States Army Medical Corps, and a member of Dayton Chapter Reserve Officers Association.
On January 26, 1927, Doctor Welch was united in marriage with Miss Edna Lavina Regula, born at Jackson Center, Ohio, January 25, 1903, the daughter of William Frederick and Sarah Christina (Young) Regula, natives of Jackson Center. Mr. Regula is the son of Peter Regula, M. D., who was a graduate in medicine at the University of Moscow, Russia. About 1830 he left Russia, and came to the United States. He settled in Shelby County in 1836 and farmed in connection with his professional work. The original Regula homestead is still in possession of his son, William F. Regula. The latter is a Democrat and holds membership in the Lutheran Church. A brother of Mrs. Welch, Oscar Regula, is a farmer in Auglaize County. Doctor and Mrs. Welch have no children.
Politically, Doctor Welch is a Republican. He was elected as coroner of Shelby County in 1933, and is now serving in that capacity. He also is a member of the staff of Wilson Memorial Hospital, at Sidney. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, 32nd degree; Sidney Post No. 217, American Legion; past grand voiture officer, La Societe des 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux. He also holds membership in the Shelby County Medical Society, Ohio State and American Medical Associations.
Hamilton Lafayette Loudenback.—Identified with the firm of H. L. & C. F. Loudenback, architects and engineers, with offices at 128 East Poplar Street, Mr. Loudenback is recognized as one of the able business men of Sidney. He was born in Concord Township, Champaign County, Ohio, July 4, 1861, the son of Martin and Malinda (McCoy) Loudenback.
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Martin Loudenback, deceased, was a representative citizen of Concord Township, Champaign County. He was born there and spent his entire life in that township, where he served as township treasurer for 30 years. Mr. Loudenback was a farmer. He was a Democrat and held membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His wife was born in Shenandoah County, Virginia, and died in 1869. Both Mr. and Mrs. Loudenback are buried in Harbor Cemetery, Concord Township. Their children were: John, Samuel, Noah, Edward, and Clarence, all deceased; Josephine, who died in 1914, was the wife of Noah Foltz; Hamilton Lafayette, the subject of this sketch; and Frank, who died in 1903.
Following his graduation from the district schools of Concord Township, Hamilton L. Loudenback spent 18 years in the employ of his father. He then located at Decatur, Illinois, with the Ttate-Check-Rower Company for one year. In 1889 Mr. Loudenback went to Columbus, Ohio, and later to Chicago, Ill. He returned to Sidney in 1894 and followed the trade of carpenter and builder until 1923, at which time he established the present firm of H. L. & C. F. Loudenback, architects and engineers, being associated with his sons, C. F. and Voress Martin Loudenback. The firm has constructed numerous schools, churches, armories, bank buildings, warehouses, factories, public institutions, store buildings, and passenger stations, as well as railroad buildings. Late contracts include the following: Sidney Junior High School; Central School, Sidney; Parkwood School, Clinton Township; Orange Township School; St. John's Lutheran Church, Sidney; Shelby County Building & Loan Association, Sidney; Citizens National Bank, Sidney; Miami County Home, Troy; and Montgomery Ward Building, Sidney.
On December 22, 1892, Mr. Loudenback was united in marriage with Miss Lulu Voress, of Orange Township, Shelby County, born December 10, 1872, the daughter of Oakey and Mary (Dickensheets) Voress, natives of New Jersey and Shelby
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County, Ohio, respectively. The former died in 1902 and the latter in 1904. To Mr. and Mrs. Loudenback were born four children: 1. Voress Martin, born April 28, 1894, a graduate of Sidney High School, Miami University, and attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology, at Boston, Massachusetts. He is a building contractor at Sidney. He is also a World War veteran, having served as a second lieutenant in the Air Service, United States Army. He married Miss Eva Bess, of Hamilton, Ohio, and they have a daughter, Sarah Bess. 2. Clarence Franklin, born December 24, 1896, a graduate of Sidney High School, and attended Miami University, and was graduated from Ohio Institute of Mechanics. He is associated in business with his father at Sidney. He also is a World War veteran, having served as Master Signal Electrician, United States Air Service. He is unmarried. 3. Mary Malinda, born April 3, 1898, unmarried, lives at home. 4. Dorothy Josephine, born April 28, 1902, unmarried, lives at home.
Mr. Loudenback is a Democrat. He and his family are prominent members of the Presbyterian Church, at Sidney.
John Althoff Sexauer.—One of the progressive business men of Sidney is found in John A. Sexauer, who is manager of the bakery department of Sexauer, Inc. He was born in this city, August 9, 1888, the son of Carl A. and Mollie A. (Althoff) Sexauer.
A complete sketch of Carl A. Sexauer, deceased, appears elsewhere in this history.
Following his graduation from Sidney High School in 1903, John A. Sexauer attended Miami Business College at Dayton. His entire business career has been identified with the bakery business which was established by his father in 1883. He served as superintendent of the bakery department from 1905 until 1931, and is now manager of the corporation. He is widely known as
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the inventor of the Sexauer Loaf Moulder, which patent was sold to the Peerless Bread Machine Company of Sidney.
Mr. Sexauer married (first) January 10, 1910, Miss Agnes Herring, who was born at Sidney, August 4, 1890. She died January 2, 1920, and is buried at Sidney. She was the daughter of Frank and Mary (Rager) Herring, natives of Missouri and Ohio respectively. They reside at Sidney. To John A. and Agnes (Herring) Sexauer was born a daughter, Lillian Florence, born September 23, 1912. She attends Oberlin College.
Mr. Sexauer married (second) December 4, 1928, Miss Zalura Billings, of Botkins, Ohio, the daughter of John and Louise (Pfadt) Billings. They are residents of Botkins. Mrs. Sexauer holds membership in the Federation of Women's Clubs, Sidney Music Club, Sidney Flower Club, and is a member of the Christian Science Church.
Mr. Sexauer is a Republican and is serving as councilman from the Fourth Ward (1929-33). He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and belongs to the Knights of Pythias, Elks Lodge, and Order of Red Men. He also belongs to the Miami Bakers Club, and Ohio State Bakers Association.
Carl A. Sexauer, deceased, was an outstanding figure in the business affairs of Sidney for more than half a century, being founder of Sexauer, Inc., grocers and bakers. He was born at Baden, Germany, August 28, 1865, the son of John Sexauer.
As a young man Carl A. Sexauer learned the trade of baker in his father's shop at Freiburg, Baden. He later went to Switzerland and engaged in business there for several years. After his decision to come to the United States in 1881, Mr. Sexauer made the long voyage from Switzerland and immediately went to the home of his uncle, George Sexauer, who lived on a farm near Piqua, Ohio. After a year in the employ of a Piqua bakery, Mr. Sexauer came to Sidney in March, 1883, where he was associated
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with Jacob Piper. He became proprietor of the business in August, 1889, and at that time was recognized as the city's leading baker. The business has been located in its present home since 1903, but in recent years has been completely remodeled and enlarged. It now is numbered among the largest and finest baking plants in the state. Mr. Sexauer also organized a grocery business in connection with the bakery. Both were recently incorporated as Sexauer, Inc. Mr. Sexauer died July 22, 1933, and is buried at Sidney.
In 1886 Mr. Sexauer was united in marriage with Miss Mollie Althoff, of Lockington, Ohio. She resides at Sidney. They are the parents of two sons, John A., and Raymond A., sketches of whom appear elsewhere in this history.
Mr. Sexauer was a life long Republican. He held membership in the First Presbyterian Church and belonged to the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and Commercial Club. He also was identified with the National Bakers Association of America, Ohio State Bakers Association, and Ohio State Grocers Association.
Mr. Sexauer made three return visits to his native land. He visited his parents in 1903, made an extensive tour of Europe in 1926, and three years later returned to Europe, accompanied by his wife, his son Raymond, and grand-daughter Lillian.
Raymond A. Sexauer.—Recognized as a leader in the business, civic, and fraternal life of Sidney is Raymond A. Sexauer, who is identified with Sexauer, Inc., of West Poplar Street. He was born here, January 4, 1898, the son of Carl A. and Mollie A. (Althoff) Sexauer.
Carl A. Sexauer, deceased, was the founder of Sexauer, Inc. His biography appears elsewhere in this history.
The boyhood of Raymond A. Sexauer was spent in Sidney and he obtained his education in the public schools, being a graduate of Sidney High School in 1915. He spent two years at the Wahl
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Baking Institute, Chicago, Illinois, and one year in study at the Schultz Bakery, in Chicago. Mr. Sexauer studied the latest baking methods and is a recognized authority in this particular field. He has been associated with the interests of Sexauer, Inc., throughout his business career and since 1930 has been manager of the company's grocery department.
On June 9, 1916, Mr. Sexauer was united in marriage with Miss Louise Mumford, born at Sidney, September 9, 1898, the daughter of Franklin and Rose (Wilkie) Mumford, natives of Miami and Auglaize counties, respectively. Mr. Mumford is associated with the Converse Rubber Shoe Company, as a traveling representative. He is a Democrat and has served as a member of city council for two terms. He holds membership in the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge and Knights of Pythias. To Mr. and Mrs. Sexauer were born four children: 1. Virginia, born July 27, 1917. 2. Carl A., born January 7, 1923. 3. Rose Mollie, born September 27, 1926. 4. Raymond A., Jr., born January 9, 1929.
Politically, Mr. Sexauer is independent. He is a member of the Merchants Association of Sidney. He belongs to the First Presbyterian Church, and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Walter E. Baumgardner.—Prominently identified with the business life of Sidney is Mr. Baumgardner, dealer in farm implements. He is also secretary of the Baker Gravel Company, director of the First Mutual Savings & Loan Company, and director of the Wilson Memorial Hospital at Sidney. Mr. Baumgardner was born at Russia, Shelby County, August 20, 1884, the son of John J. and Mary (Mader) Baumgardner.
John J. Baumgardner is a native of Shelby County, and now lives retired at Bradford, Ohio. He was reared on a farm in Laramie Township, Shelby County, and attended the district
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school. He continued farming for several years and later lived at Grand Island, Nebraska, for 18 years. Upon his return to Shelby County he resumed his farming interests in Laramie Township until his retirement in 1921. Mr. Baumgardner is a Democrat and held several public offices in Nebraska. He is a member of St. Paul's Evangelical Church, and belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, and Maccabees. His wife was born at Russia, Shelby County, and died January 9, 1929. She is buried at Sidney. To Mr. and Mrs. Baumgardner were born three children: 1. Walter E., the subject of this sketch. 2. Alice, married William Christian, lives at Osgood, Ohio. 3. Clara, married Henry Henry Wehneman, lives at Houston, Ohio.
Walter E. Baumgardner spent his boyhood at Grand Island, Nebraska, and received his early education in the public schools there. He later attended Ohio Northern University, and for four years was a teacher in the district schools of Shelby County. In 1908 he became associated with Felix Francis in the farm implement business at Russia, and at that time first represented the International Harvester Company. Mr. Baumgardner disposed of his interest in the business in 1912 and in the following year located at Sidney, where he purchased the farm implement business of Samuel Grumbaugh, on South Main Street. The business was removed to its present location on East Court Street the following year. The business has increased annually and Mr. Baumgardner is now recognized as one of the representative business men of West Central Ohio. He has maintained a branch store at Piqua, Ohio, since 1925. He was one of the founders of the Ohio State Farm Implement Association in 1924 and served as a director.
On May 7, 1906, Mr. Baumgardner married Miss Bertha A. Apple, born in Laramie Township, January 13, 1886. She is the daughter of Henry H. and Florence (Cook) Apple. They are natives of Shelby and Montgomery Counties, respectively. Mr. Apple is the son of Jacob S. and Sarah E. (Creager) Apple. Both
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were natives of Montgomery County and early settled in Laramie Township, Shelby County. The son, Henry H. Apple, resides on the Apple homestead. He is a Democrat and has served as township clerk. He belongs to the Lutheran Church, and Knights of Pythias.
To Walter E. and Bertha A. (Apple) Baumgardner were born four children: 1. Ralph Oliver, who is associated with the International Harvester Company at Philadelphia. He married Miss Grace Beery, of Sidney, and they have a daughter, Alice. 2. Gladys Eleanor, a graduate nurse, Grant Hospital, Columbus. She married John McAndrews and lives at Columbus. 3. Treva B., a graduate nurse, Grant Hospital, identified with the Public Health Department at Columbus. 4. Opal B., who is employed in the offices of the Ohio Electric Power Company at Sidney.
Politically Mr. Baumgardner is a Democrat. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of St. Paul's Evangelical Church, and belongs to the Masonic lodge and Chamber of Commerce.
Hon. Charles M. Wyman.—A substantial citizen of Sidney and Shelby County is found in Charles M. Wyman, who is serving as judge of the Probate Court. He was born at Sidney, March 25, 1873, the son of William C. and Ellen E. (Ryan) Wyman.
William C. Wyman, deceased, was widely and favorably known in Shelby County, where he held numerous public offices. He was born in County Wexford, Ireland, September 29, 1832, and died at Sidney in 1923. His wife was born at Boston, Massachusetts, and died in 1927. Both are buried at Sidney. Mr. Wyman was the son of Patrick Cousins and Mary (Furlong) Wyman, who lived to the advanced ages of 90 and 95 years, respectively. At the age of 11 years, William C. Wyman came to this country with his parents. He later sailed on the "Keying," on the New England coast, and also went to sea as a cabin boy,
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being employed on vessels plying between Charleston, South Carolina, and Liverpool, England. In later life Mr. Wyman came to Ohio, and located at Cincinnati. In 1853 he came to Sidney, where he followed the contracting business until 1876. He then was elected to the office of probate judge of Shelby County, in which office he served until 1882. He was elected trustee of Clinton Township in 1884 and in 1885 became mayor of Sidney. He also was justice of the peace and health officer, as well as librarian. Mr. Wyman was a Democrat, and held membership in the Catholic Church. His wife was the daughter of John S. and Bridget Ryan, who were natives of Boston, Massachusetts. To Mr. and Mrs. Wyman were born the following children: 1. Mollie, unmarried, lives at Sidney. 2. Nellie, unmarried, lives at Sidney. 3. John, deceased. 4. Celia, unmarried, lives at Sidney. 5. Sidney, retired, lives at Sidney. 6. Charles M., the subject of this sketch.
Following his graduation from Sidney High School in 1892, Charles M. Wyman became a clerk in Thedieck's Department Store, at Sidney, later being made advertising manager and buyer. In 1908 he was elected as a representative to the 78th General Assembly of Ohio, and served in that capacity until 1912. He then was identified with the Internal Revenue Department, Income Tax Division, until 1914, at which time he resumed his former connections with the Thedieck Department Store. He resigned as the company's secretary in 1928 to assume his present duties as probate judge of Shelby County.
On October 6, 1905, Mr. Wyman was united in marriage with Miss Amelia C. Mayer, of Sidney, the daughter of Andrew and Anna (Bretz) Mayer, natives of Germany. The former died in 1923 and the latter in 1913. Both are buried at Sidney. Mr. and Mrs. Wyman have no children.
Mr. Wyman has always been a Democrat. He is affiliated with B. P. O. Elks, Knights of Columbus, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Order of Redmen, Kiwanis Club, and is president of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife are active mem-
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bers of Holy Angels Catholic Church, and he is president of the National Council of Catholic Men, at Sidney.
Charles J. Hentrich.—One of the progressive business men of Sidney is Charles J. Hentrich, who is the proprietor of a printing establishment on North Ohio Street. He is a native of Ohio, born at Celina, February 28, 1885, the son of Lorenz and Mary (Hartman) Hentrich.
Lorenz Hentrich is a native of Germany and now resides at Sidney. Upon his arrival in this country he settled at Piqua, Ohio, but has lived in this city since 1899. He is engaged in the insurance business. Mr. Hentrich is a Democrat and holds membership in Holy Angels Catholic Church. Mary (Hartman) Hentrich, who died in 1890, was a native of Germany. She was survived by three children: 1. John C., lives at Mansfield, Ohio. 2. Charles J., the subject of this sketch. 3. Rose M., the widow of Arthur Shilling, lives at Dayton. Mr. Hentrich married (second) Miss Mary Shumann, a native of Germany. Their children were: 1. Elizabeth, died in infancy. 2. Anna, married Elmer A. Fritz, lives at Sidney. 3. Marie, unmarried, lives at Sidney. 4. Matilda, married Theodore Gamble, lives at Sidney. 5. Catherine, married William Kavel, lives at Cincinnati. 6. Cecelia, married Clareton Daugherty, lives at Steubenville. 7. Edward J., lives at Sidney. 8. Louis, twin brother of Edward J., died in infancy. 9-10. Lawrence and Leo, twins, died in infancy. 11-12. Francis and Frederick, twins, the former died in 1921 and the latter died in infancy. 13. Loretta, unmarried, lives at home.
Charles J. Hentrich attended the parochial schools of Covington, Sidney, and Columbus. He learned the trade of printer while in the employ of the Sidney Printing & Publishing Company, and remained with that concern until 1906. He spent three years as a printer on the Sidney Journal, and during 1909-14, was employed by the Republican Printing Company of Sidney. In the
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latter year he took over the management of the Shelby County Anzeiger, a German publication, which was renamed the Fort Laramie Progress. The publication was suspended in 1917 on account of the World War. In that year Mr. Hentrich was elected recorder of Shelby County and capably filled that office until 1923. He has since been interested in the printing business.
Mr. Hentrich was married June 4, 1919, to Miss Mabel Lee Bartmess, who was born at Covington, Ohio, September 26, 1886, the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Oda) Bartmess. The former died in 1925 and the latter resides at Covington. Mr. and Mrs. Hentrich are the parents of two children: 1. Roberta Bartmess, born May 12, 1920. 2. Marcellus Paul, born June 10, 1922.
Mr. Hentrich has always been a Democrat and has been a member of the Democratic Central and Executive committees, being a delegate to several state conventions. He is an active member of Holy Angels Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus and Kiwanis Club.
Herman H. Hadley, photographer, is among the popular young business men of Sidney, with studios in the Ohio Building. He was born at Galion, Ohio, September 12, 1910, the son of Clifford V. and Dea (Nolder) Hadley.
Clifford V. Hadley is a native of Clarksburg, Ohio. He received his education in the public schools there and as a young man located at Bellefontaine. He later established a commercial studio of photography at Galion, Ohio, but in 1911 returned to Bellefontaine, where he opened a branch studio. The latter is now managed by his son, Clifford V. Hadley, Jr. Mr. Hadley is now identified with the George L. Kohne Company of Toledo. He is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Elks Lodge, Knights of Pythias, Kiwanis Club, and Chamber of Commerce. His wife is a native of Newton, Kansas. To Mr. and Mrs. Hadley were born three children: 1.
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Herman H., the subject of this sketch. 2. Clifford V., Jr., lives at Bellefontaine. 3. Donna Joan, attends Ohio State University.
After his graduation from Bellefontaine High School in 1927, Herman H. Hadley spent two years at the National School of Photography at Winona Lake, Ind. He then assumed the duties of manager of his, father's studio at Bellefontaine, but in September, 1932, came to Sidney, where he purchased the studio of Harry VanDegrift. Mr. Hadley is a highly successful portrait photographer and also does a large volume of commercial work. He holds membership in the Photographers International Association of America.
On December 26, 1932, Mr. Hadley married Miss Clara Mae Binckley, born at Columbus, Ohio, November 19, 1912. She is a graduate of Lewistown High School and Bliss Business College. Her parents are Clifford and Clara (Rings) Binckley, natives of Franklin County and residents of Russell's Point, Ohio.
Mr. Hadley is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and belongs to the Knights of Pythias. His wife holds membership in the Lutheran Evangelical Church.
Politically Mr. Hadley is a Republican.
Joseph Bradford Cook is prominently identified with the business interests of West Central Ohio as one of the owners of the Cook Spot chain of restaurants, with headquarters at Sidney and other restaurants at Piqua, Lima, Springfield, Athens, and Zanesville. Mr. Cook was born at Saint Paris, Champaign County, Ohio, August 3, 1891, the son of Lyman B. and Lydia B. (Rolfe) Cook.
Lyman B. Cook, deceased, was a successful lawyer. He was born at Columbus, Ohio, May 26, 1851, and died at Saint Paris, Ohio, June 14, 1896. Lydia B. (Rolfe) Cook was born in Green Township, Shelby County, October 23, 1850, and died August 18, 1916. They are buried at Port Jefferson. Mr. Cook was
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reared and educated at Columbus and received the degree of LL. B. at Cincinnati Law College in 1870. He then practiced law at Columbus until 1886, at which time he removed to Saint Paris and he was located there at the time of his death. His practice also extended to Urbana and Sidney. Mr. Cook was a Democrat, held membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belonged to the Masonic Lodge, and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a member of the Champaign County and Ohio State Bar Associations. To Mr. and Mrs. Cook only one child was born, Joseph Bradford, the subject of this sketch. By a former marriage to John Anderson, deceased, Lydia B. (Rolfe) Cook had the following children: 1. William Anderson, who died July 3, 1898. 2. Alexander, farmer, lives near Maplewood, Ohio. 3. Ira Orlando, lumber dealer, lives at Columbus, Ohio.
In memory of Lydia B. (Rolfe) Cook a room was furnished in the new Wilson Memorial Hospital, at Sidney, by her son, Joseph Bradford Cook, and a grandson, W. Raymond Anderson.
After his graduation from Sidney High School in 1911, Joseph Bradford Cook spent two years as a clerk in the dry goods store of N. C. DeWeese, at Sidney. In partnership with Homer Spence he then purchased the "Spot" restaurant at Sidney. It had been established in 1908 by Edward Miller. In 1915 an interest in the business was purchased by Mr. Cook's nephew, W. Raymond Anderson, and they have since opened restaurants at the above named cities.
On May 4, 1915, Mr. Cook was united in marriage with Miss Faye Louise Princehouse, born in Green Township, Shelby County, January 28, 1892, the daughter of William Henry and Dora May (Sargeant) Princehouse. A complete sketch of Mr-. Princehouse appears elsewhere in this history. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are the parents of two daughters: 1. Bette Louise, born August 28, 1918. 2. Charlotte Jean, born June 20, 1924.
Mrs. Cook is a graduate of Sidney High School and Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. She is a member of Tri Sigma Soro-
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rity, Order of the Eastern Star, Culture Reading Club, Bobolink Club and Mothers' Club.
Mr. Cook is a Democrat and served as a member of the Democratic Central Committee from the fourth ward. He and his family are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is affiliated with Temperance Lodge, No. 73, F. & A. M.; Sidney Chapter, No. 130, R. A. M.; Sidney Council, No. 70, R. & S. M.; Sidney Commandery, No. 46, K. T.; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree, A. A. S. R.; Antioch Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S.; and the Masonic Club and Knights of Pythias. He also belongs to the Chamber of Commerce and is a trustee of Wilson Memorial Hospital.
The "Cook Spot" chain of restaurants enjoy a national reputation for fine foods and high class service, and have a wide patronage in the cities of Sidney, Piqua, Lima, Springfield, Athens, and Zanesville, where they are located.
A complete sketch of Joseph Bradford Cook and W. Raymond Anderson, proprietors, may be found elsewhere in this history.
The business was established at Sidney in 1908 by Edward Miller, and formerly located in a small building at the corner of South Ohio and Court streets. In 1913 the business was purchased by Homer C. Spence and Joseph B. Cook, and renamed "Cook's Spot." It enjoyed an almost immediate success under its new management and the partnership continued until 1915, at which time W. Raymond Anderson purchased the interest of Mr. Spence.
A second restaurant was opened at Piqua, on August 18, 1920; a third was established at Lima, on May 4, 1921; a fourth at Athens on April 4, 1924; a fifth at Zanesville on April 4, 1928; and a sixth at Springfield, on December 17, 1930. A large warehouse was purchased and remodeled by the company in 1928. It is located at Walnut and Water streets, Sidney, and serves as a base
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for the handling of foodstuffs for this extensive enterprise. Approximately 60 people are employed by the concern.
In September, 1933, the company celebrated its 20th anniversary in business in the form of a gift car, which was contributed by the firm to a customer, in appreciation of its patronage.
Webster Kelsey Sterline.—Widely known throughout the United States as a manufacturer of an asthma treatment, Mr. Sterline is recognized as one of the representative citizens of Sidney and Shelby County. He is a native of Sidney, born May 6, 1878, the son of George B. and Anna (Kelsey) Sterline.
George B. Sterline was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and died at Ashland, Ohio, in 1906. He was a miller by trade and also conducted a grocery business at Sidney. He removed to Ashland about 1902, and continued in business there for a number of years. He was a Civil War veteran, having enlisted as a drummer boy. He was a Republican, held membership in the Presbyterian Church, and belonged to the Masonic Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Grand Army of the Republic. His wife was born at Sidney and died in 1901. Both are buried in Sidney. Their children were: 1. A daughter died in infancy. 2. Webster Kelsey, the subject of this sketch.
Webster K. Sterline was educated in the public schools of Sidney, from which he was graduated in 1896. He then attended Ohio Military Institute at Cincinnati and was a student at Ohio Northern University. He spent two years in Chicago as manager of the Educational Register Company, and in 1904 returned to Sidney, where he began the commercial manufacture of an asthma compound and bronchial elixir, both being known as Sterline products. The formulae for both these compounds had been in the possession of the Sterline family for many years. At the present time a new factory building is being erected on the site of
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the original business place. The company does a mail order business exclusively and is recognized as the second largest of its kind in the United States. Drugs used are manufactured by high grade chemical companies in Baltimore and Saint Louis. Thousands of testimonial letters received from sufferers of asthma and hay fever give evidence of the excellent results obtained from these compounds.
On August 18, 1919, Mr. Sterline married Miss Zenaide N. Allen, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, the daughter of George H. and Susan (Miller) Allen. Mr. Allen died in 1929 and his wife died in 1923. They are buried at Bellefontaine. Mr. and Mrs. Sterline have no children.
Mr. Sterline has always been a Republican. He is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Pythias and Kiwanis Club. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Morris Kaufman.—As proprietor of Kaufman's Store, at Sidney, Mr. Kaufman ranks high among the city's enterprising business men and takes a prominent part in its civic and social life. He is a native of Chicago, Illinois, born April 7, 1892, the son of Louis and Dora (Mendelson) Kaufman.
Louis Kaufman was born in Poland, and now lives retired at Anderson, Indiana. His wife is also a native of Poland. At the age of 12 years Mr. Kaufman emigrated to the United States and after a short stay in New York City he located at Canton, Ohio, where he attended the public schools. Later, he engaged in the mercantile business in that city. He also operated stores at Crooksville, Cambridge, and Washington Court House, Ohio, before his retirement from business in 1927. Mr. Kaufman also owned and operated a store at Sidney from 1920 until 1927. He is a Democrat, and holds membership in the Jewish Synagogue, at Anderson, Indiana. To Mr. and Mrs. Kaufman were born three children: 1. Morris, the subject of this sketch. 2. Rae, married
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Louis Sup owitz, lives at Anderson, Indiana. 3. Elliot, merchant, lives at Washington Court House, Ohio.
The boyhood of Morris Kaufman was spent at Cambridge and Washington Court House, where he attended the public schools. He then became associated with his father's stores, and in March, 1920, came to Sidney as store manager. This business was originally owned by Arnett Clothiers, and occupied a small room in the business section of the city. The store was enlarged in 1925, and two years later Mr. Kaufman increased the space by occupying the room adjacent, formerly occupied by the O. B. Taylor Furniture Company. This increased the store's floor space to 165 x 50 feet, and in 1929 the basement of the building was remodeled as part of the store space. It now has 12,500 feet of floor space, and is numbered among the finest stores of West Central Ohio. A well established trade is testimonial of the company's business methods and fair dealing.
On June 19, 1927, Mr. Kaufman was united in marriage at Columbus, Ohio, with Miss Rose Blickstein, born at Zanesville, Ohio, May 10, 1900. She is the daughter of Isaac and Mary (Allan) Blickstein, the former a native of Poland. They are residents of Zanesville. Mr. and Mrs. Kaufman have a son, Lee Allan, born July 10, 1929.
Mr. Kaufman is an active Democrat. He holds membership in the Jewish Temple, at Dayton, and is affiliated with the B. P. O. Elks, Sidney Country Club, and American Legion. He is a member of Reading Lodge F. & A. M., Cincinnati Consistory, 32nd degree A. A. S. R., Syrian Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S.
Mr. Kaufman's deep interest in community welfare is demonstrated by his efforts to stimulate interest in athletics and during 1932-33 he has sponsored a team in the city baseball league. He also contributed the use of the athletic field for the Sunday afternoon games and has provided free admission to all.
During the World War, Mr. Kaufman enlisted for service on December 12, 1917, at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, and served as a
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private. He saw active service in France as sergeant of the 13th Air Service Mechanics, and was discharged at Camp Sherman, Ohio, on July 19, 1919.
Louis Rauth Wagner is prominent in the business, social and civic life of Sidney, where he is identified with the Wagner Manufacturing Company as vice president and general manager. He was born at Sidney, October 12, 1871, the son of Mathias M. and Anna Mary (Rauth) Wagner.
Mathias M. Wagner was born at Stundweiller, Germany, April 8, 1818, and died at Sidney, June 2, 1888. When 12 years of age his parents emigrated to the United States and settled at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Six years later the family removed to Columbiana County, Ohio, and subsequently to Steubenville and Wheeling, West Virginia. They came to Auglaize County in 1837 and during the same year established their residence at Sidney. Mathias M. Wagner successfully conducted a wholesale and retail meat business in this city for more than half a century. He was a Democrat and held membership in Holy Angels Catholic Church. He also was a director of the German American Bank at Sidney. His wife was born in Bavaria, Germany, January 7, 1830, and died in 1908. Both Mr. and Mrs. Wagner are buried at Sidney. Their children were: 1. Emma, Charles, Mary E., John Albert, William H., and Ella, all deceased; Ida Cecelia, died in 1929, was the wife of I. H. Thedieck; Milton Mathias, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history; Bernard P., who died in 1923; Flora A., married A. A. Gerlach, lives at Sidney; Louis R., the subject of this sketch; and Bertha A., married Anton H. Webber, lives at Chicago, Illinois.
Louis R. Wagner received his education in the parochial schools of Sidney, and attended St. Mary's College at Dayton. He was one of the founders of the Wagner Manufacturing Company, and served as manager of their Arcade department store at Sid-
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ney from 1891 until 1902. He has since been an officer of the company and at the present time is vice president and general manager. He is also a director of the Wagner Hotel Company, and Wagner Realty Company.
Mr. Wagner was married January 8, 1902, to Miss Catherine Theresa Burkhardt, born at Dayton, February 12, 1878, the daughter of Richard P. and Mary Adelaide (Stomps) Burkhardt, natives of Germany and Dayton, Ohio, respectively. Both are deceased and are buried at Dayton. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner have no children.
Mr. Wagner and his wife are members of Holy Angels Catholic Church, and he is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Knights of America, and Chamber of Commerce. He is a Democrat and belongs to the Sidney Country Club.
The Wagner Manufacturing Company.—In the specialized field of manufacturing which deals with the making of cast aluminum and cast iron cooking utensils, there are few firms as well known as the Wagner Manufacturing Company, of Sidney. The concern was founded in 1891 by W. H., M. M., B. P., and L. R. Wagner, who incorporated the business in 1907 with a capital stock of $250,000, the officers being as follows: W. H. Wagner, president; B. P. Wagner, vice president; L. R. Wagner, secretary; and M. M. Wagner, treasurer.
The capital stock was later increased to $500,000, and at the present time the business is capitalized at $800,000. The plant is modernly equipped throughout with the latest type of machinery, and employs approximately 400 people, as well as an extensive sales force.
Among the cast iron products manufactured by the company are the following: Polished skillets, griddles, kettles, pots, Dutch ovens, roasters, and waffle irons. Its aluminum products include: Percolators, tea and coffee pots, casseroles, baking dishes, trays,
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water pitchers, ladles, cups, spoons, skillets, griddles, pans, kettles, pots, tea kettles, rice boilers, round and oval roasters, jelly, bread, and cake moulds, muffin and bread stock pans, and waffle moulds.
The present officers of the company are: Milton M. Wagner, president and treasurer; Louis R. Wagner, vice president and general manager; and L. C. Wagner, secretary.
The slogan of the Wagner ware is: "From Generation to Generation."
Milton Mathias Wagner.—Outstanding among Sidney's representative business men and prominent citizens is Milton Mathias Wagner, who is president and treasurer of the Wagner Manufacturing Company. He was born in this city, March 20, 1862, the son of Mathias M. and Anna Mary (Rauth) Wagner.
Mathias M. Wagner's biography appears elsewhere in this history.
Milton M. Wagner is a graduate of the parochial schools of Sidney, and also attended Wilt's Business College at Dayton. His entire business career has been associated with the interests of the Wagner Company, and he began as a clerk in the retail hardware store at Sidney. He later became proprietor of the Arcade department store, in association with his brothers. He began as purchasing agent and treasurer of the Wagner Manufacturing Company, at Sidney, in 1891, and for a number of years has served as president and treasurer of the organization. He is also president and director of the Wagner Hotel Company.
On November 28, 1899, Mr. Wagner was united in marriage with Miss Nettie E. Hemm, born at Sidney, March 23, 1862, the daughter of George and Bernadina Hemm, natives of Germany. Nettie E. (Hemm) Wagner died in 1923 and is buried in Sidney. Two sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wagner: 1. Philip G., who is assistant general manager of the Wagner Manufacturing Com-
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pany. He is a graduate of Sidney parochial schools, University of Dayton, and Catholic University of America, at Washington, District of Columbia. He married Blanche M. Haverty, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and they have two children, Blanche M. and Eugene Philip. 2. Joseph G., a graduate of the University of Dayton, is now factory manager of the Wagner Manufacturing Company. He married Miss Ida M. Haverty, of Pittsburgh, and they had two children, Ida M., and Joseph G., Jr., deceased.
Mr. Wagner is a Democrat, a member of Holy Angels Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Knights of America. He is also a member of the Sidney Country Club.
George John Gagoudy, who is president and general manager of the Sidney Paper Box & Novelty Company, is one of the enterprising and highly successful young business men of Shelby County. He was born in Athens, Greece, February 12, 1893, the son of John George and Alexandria (Marchelos) Gagoudy.
John George Gagoudy and his wife were born in Greece. He died in 1910 and is buried in New York City. His widow lives at Sidney. At the age of 34 years Mr. Gagoudy came to the United States. He was employed by the American Tobacco Company for a number of years, and at the time of his retirement he returned to his native land. Mr. Gagoudy was a Republican, and held membership in the Greek Orthodox Church. Two sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Gagoudy: 1. George John, the subject of this sketch. 2. Timothy John, lives at Brooklyn, New York.
At the age of ten years George John Gagoudy came to the United States with his parents. He attended the public schools of New York City and began his business career with the American Tobacco Company, being in their employ during 1907-13. His next position was in the paper box department of the Berlin-Jones Stationery Company, New York City, and after two years
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he went to Marcus & Ward Paper Box Company, of Long Island, as assistant foreman. In 1918 Mr. Gagoudy resigned from that position and went to Kalamazoo, Michigan, as general manager of the Kalamazoo Stationery Company. He came to Sidney in 1925 and at that time organized the Sidney Paper Box & Novelty Company, which was incorporated in the following year with a capital stock of $25,000. Three years later the business was removed to its present location at 125 Wilkinson Avenue. Since February, 1933, Mr. Gagoudy has been president and general manager of the corporation. The company specializes in the manufacture of fancy boxes, which are used as containers for leather goods, perfumes, powders, and candy. They are also manufacturers of the ordinary commercial types of box. The plant employs 25 people and its products have a wide sale throughout the United States.
On June 29, 1916, Mr. Gagoudy married Miss Marie Mollenery, born in New York City, February 12, 1894. She is the daughter of Charles and Veronica Mollenary, who are natives of Italy, and now reside in Hoboken, New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs. Gagoudy have three children: 1. Alice Georgia, born April 29, 1917. 2. Rosalia, born March 2, 1918. 3. Joan Marie, born May 1, 1921.
Mr. Gagoudy is a Republican, holds membership in the Greek Orthodox Community Church at Dayton, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge and Knights of Pythias. He is also a director of the Rotary Club and Sidney Country Club.
Leo J. McFarland, who is secretary-treasurer and general manager of the Dixie Oil Company, at 301 South Ohio Avenue, ranks among the dependable and successful business men of Sidney. He was born at St. Marys Ohio, April 30, 1895, the son of James E. and Alice (Ennis) McFarland.
James E. McFarland is a widely known business man of Saint Marys, Ohio, where he has engaged in business as a grocer for
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the past 40 years. He was born at Glenwood, Auglaize County, Ohio, and his wife is a native of the same county. They live at Saint Marys. Mr. McFarland is a Democrat, a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. McFarland: 1. Charles E., lives at Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a World War veteran. 2. Michael F., lives at Sidney. 3. Mary, unmarried, lives at home. 4. Alice; who is a Sister of Charity, Saint Mary's Hospital, Pueblo, Colorado. 5. Eleanora, who died in April, 1929, was a Sister of Charity at Colorado Springs, Colorado. 6. Leo J., the subject of this sketch. 7. James A., lives at Knoxville, Tennessee.
Leo J. McFarland attended the parochial schools of Saint Marys, and began his business career as a clerk in the employ of the Saint Marys Machine Company. After two years he came to Sidney in 1915, and spent three years in the shops of the Monarch Machine Tool Company, being foreman during 1918-21. Mr. McFarland was one of the organizers of the Dixie Oil Company in 1921 and served as its secretary and treasurer until 1929, at which time he also assumed the duties of general manager. They are wholesale and retail oil dealers of Shelby County, with offices and main plant at Sidney. The company owns and operates 15 pumps throughout the county.
On April 22, 1918, Mr. McFarland married Miss Mary Ellen Corbin, who was born at Sidney, July 16, 1893, the daughter of John C. and Theresa (Kerber) Corbin. They are residents of Sidney and are natives of Shelby County. Mr. and Mrs. McFarland have no children.
Mr. McFarland is a prominent Democrat of Shelby County and is serving as secretary of the Democratic County Executive Committee.
Mr. and Mrs. McFarland are members of Holy Angels Catholic Church at Sidney, and he is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus, past grand knight; B. P. O. Elks, past exalted ruler, and is District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler; Order of Red Men; Rotary Club; and Sidney Country Club.
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Thomas Arthur Billingsley is among the highly successful and widely known professional men of Darke County, engaged in the practice of law at Greenville. He was born near Covington, Ohio, April 4, 1880, the son of John E. and Emma (Harwood) Billingsley.
John E. Billingsley, deceased, was also a native of Miami County. He was born in 1850 and died at Covington in 1926. He was prominent as a breeder of fine driving horses. In 1878 Mr. Billingsley married Miss Emma Harwood, the daughter of Rev. John Harwood, a pioneer circuit rider of the Methodist Church. He was a native of England. To Mr. and Mrs. Billingsley were born three sons, of whom Thomas Arthur, subject of this sketch was the oldest.
The boyhood of Thomas Arthur Billingsley was spent at Covington and he received his early education there. He spent two years at Ohio Wesleyan University, and in 1902 was graduated from the College of Law at Ohio State University. After eight years in private practice at Versailles, Darke County, Mr. Billingsley removed to Greenville. He was associated with Judge George W. Mannix, Jr., and George F. Crawford, under the firm name of Mannix, Crawford & Billingsley, from 1920 until 1927. In the latter year Mr. Crawford was elected to the office of Judge of the Common Pleas Court and retired from the law firm. The association of Mannix & Billingsley continued until March, 1930, when Judge Mannix died. In August, 1931, his nephew, Robert P. Mannix, became an associate of Mr. Billingsley, and at the present time the firm of Billingsley & Mannix ranks among the leading law firms of Darke County.
Mr. Billingsley married (first) on September 21, 1906, Miss Ottie May Hartle, the daughter of O. J. Hartle, of Covington. They had two sons: 1. Rev. Richard, born July 18, 1907, a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University and Princeton Theological Seminary. He is pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Ocean City, Maryland. 2. Joseph, born April 5, 1912, a graduate of
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Ohio Wesleyan University. He is interested in the advertising business in New York City.
On July 31, 1927, Mr. Billingsley married (second) Mrs. Bertha A. Avery, of Greenville. They reside at 101 North Main Street.
Mr. Billingsley is a prominent Democrat and is vice chairman of the Democratic County Committee. He was chairman during 1930-32. He is a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, a 32nd degree Mason, and belongs to the Elks Lodge, Rotary Club, Greenville Country Club, and Chamber of Commerce. He also is a member of the Darke County and Ohio State Bar Association.
Mr. Billingsley is especially interested in the breeding of fine horses and at the present time has a stable of five thoroughbreds. He is a director of the United Trotting Association, and is a member of the Darke County Fair Board.
Neal Waggoner.—A prominent and highly esteemed citizen of Shelby County is Neal Waggoner, who is chief of the Sidney Fire Department. He was born at Versailles, Darke County, Ohio, December 6, 1878, the son of Franklin and Elizabeth (Briney) Waggoner.
Franklin Waggoner, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Warren County, as was his wife. For 15 years Mr. Waggoner owned and operated a farm in Warren County, and for two years he was a resident of Versailles, Darke County. Later, he lived in Clinton Township, Shelby County. During the Civil War Mr. Waggoner served as a member of the 78th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Waggoner died in 1908 and his wife died in 1888. They are buried at Sidney. To Mr. and Mrs. Waggoner were born five children: 1. Grant, who died in 1897. 2. Clifford V., lives at Sidney. 3. John D., lives at Santa Monica, California.
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4. Neal, the subject of this sketch. 5. Grace, who died in infancy.
Neal Waggoner obtained his education in the district schools of Clinton Township, Shelby County. He continued farming on his father's land for several years, and later was employed by John Edgar, building contractor, of Sidney. He then spent ten years in the employ of the Bimel Carriage Company, at Sidney, and in August, 1917, became a member of the local fire department. He received the promotion to assistant chief of the department in 1927 and two years later became chief.
On January 29, 1903, Mr. Waggoner was united in marriage with Miss Mary Ayet, a native of Darke County, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph and Louise (Marshall) Ayet. The former lives at Sidney, and the latter died in 1890. She is buried at Frenchtown, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Waggoner have a son, William Jesse, born September 26, 1903. He is master mechanic in the employ of the Peerless Bread Machine Company, at Sidney. He married Miss Gladys Wertz, of Wapokeneta, Ohio.
Politically, Mr. Waggoner is a Republican. He is a member of the Mutual Aid Society, and Police and Firemen's Association.
Paul G. Korn.—As sub-district manager of The Home Owners Loan Corporation in Miami, Darke, and Shelby counties, Mr. Korn is widely known throughout this section of the state. He has offices in the Ohio Building, at Sidney. Mr. Korn was born at Montra, Shelby County, March 19, 1907, the son of William F. and Minnie (Linker) Korn.
William F. Korn is a native of Ohio and his wife was born at Fort Wayne, Indiana. For many years Mr. Korn has successfully engaged in business at Montra and Jackson Center, Ohio, where he was interested in a hardware store and owns two hardwood lumber yards. He also owns and operates seven fine farms in Shelby County. Mr. Korn is a Democrat and has served as township trustee, treasurer, and school director. He and his
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wife are members of the Lutheran Church. Their children are: 1. Karl W., identified with William F. Korn & Son Lumber Company, at Montra. 2. Irvin T. 3. Cloyd Lewis. Both are engaged in business with their father. 4. Paul G., the subject of this sketch. 5. Frederick Wilson. 6. Catherine Elizabeth. 7. Richard Eugene. 8. William F., Jr. All are students.
Following his graduation from Sidney High School in 1926, Paul G. Korn entered Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1931. He then was employed in the office of the tax auditor, Ohio State Tax Commission, at Columbus, until July, 1933, after which he received his present appointment as sub-district manager of the Home Owners Loan Corporation.
Mr. Korn is a Democrat and is an active member of the Young Men's Democratic Club, being chairman of the Executive Committee. He is a member of the Lutheran Church and belongs to Theta Chi fraternity.
George O'Brien.—One of Darke County's most outstanding citizens and representative business men is George O'Brien, founder of the O'Brien Milling Company, at Greenville. He was born at Union, Montgomery County, Ohio, August 16, 1866, the son of Patrick and Nancy (Reid) O'Brien.
Patrick O'Brien was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1833. As an infant he was brought to the United States by his parents, who settled fiirst in New York and later in Cincinnati. Finally, the family removed to Randolph Township, Montgomery County, Ohio. Patrick O'Brien became a manufacturer of barrels and also was interested in brick manufacturing. He served throughout the Civil War and was injured during the final sieges of the war. He died November 6, 1906, and is buried in Minnick Cemetery, at Union, Ohio. Mr. O'Brien was married (first) to Miss Nancy Reid, of Union, who died in 1867. She was survived by
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one child, George, the subject of this sketch. Mr. O'Brien married (second) Miss Sarah Walters, of Vandalia, Ohio. To this union was born a son, Charles.
George O'Brien received his education in the district schools of Randolph Township, Montgomery County. He was employed for a short time in a mill at Union, Ohio, and later operated a mill at Marine City, Ohio. In 1913 he purchased the Union Mills, at Union, which he successfully operated for four years. During 1918-19 he managed the Soyco Mills, at Greenville, and in 1920 Mr. O'Brien went to Columbiana, Ohio, as manager of the Milling & Supply Company of Columbiana. Two years later he returned to Greenville, where he operated a mill for the Barrett Milling Company, later acquiring the property himself. The business was organized first as George O'Brien & Son, and later incorporated as the O'Brien Milling Company. The mill has a capacity of 200 barrels per day, and handles six grades of flour, as well as cornmeal and four varieties of fancy table products. The company also owns and operates a mill at Alliance, Ohio, where commercial feeds are manufactured. A wholesale grocery business is maintained in connection with the Greenville mill, and specializes in the sale of high grade cereal foods.
On December 13, 1888, Mr. O'Brien was united in marriage with Miss Josephine Pierce, the daughter of Moses C. and Rose Pierce, of West Milton, Ohio. They are the parents of three sons: 1. Harry Russell, born December 12, 1889, a graduate of Ohio State University, Bachelor of Arts in 1910, and Master of Arts in 1912. He was a feature writer with the Curtis Publishing Company, at Philadelphia, Pa., for two years, and at the present time is a member of the faculty of the College of Agriculture, Ohio State University, as a lecturer on agricultural journalism. He also is a special contributor to "Better Homes and Gardens," of Des Moines, Iowa., "The Country Gentleman," "Saturday Evening Post," and other publications. He is married and has two sons, Donald and David. He lives with his family at Co-
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lumbus, Ohio. 2. Gaynor Edwin, born July 27, 1891, a graduate of Ohio State University, and the Oklahoma College of Agriculture & Mechanics, at Stillwater, Oklahoma., class of 1913, Bachelor of Science. He received his Master's degree at the Iowa State Agricultural College, at Ames, Iowa, and for seven years was assistant secretary of agriculture of the State of Iowa. He also spent six years as manager of the United States Rubber Company for the State of Iowa, and is now vice president and general manager of the O'Brien Milling Company, at Greenville. He is married and has a son, Patrick. He is a director of the Chamber of Commerce, director of the Ohio Millers Association and a member of the Greenville Rotary Club. 3. Robert Pierce, born June 16, 1904, a graduate of Ohio State University. He is president of the O'Brien Milling Company, and is also identified with the Allied Mills, of Chicago, Ill.
Mr. O'Brien is a Democrat, and served as a member of the Montgomery County Board of Education for five years. He also is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Sons of Veterans, and United Commercial Travelers.
Ralph Lawrence Stamm.—A substantial and widely known citizen of Darke County is Ralph Lawrence Stamm, who has served as postmaster of Versailles since 1923. He was born in York Township, Darke County, August 4, 1879, the son of Thomas H. and Lavina (Fidler) Stamm.
Thomas H. Stamm, deceased, was a prosperous farmer of York Township. He was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, September 25, 1849, spent his early life in that section, and in 1870 came to Darke County. He engaged in general farming in York township until his retirement in 1911. Mr. Stamm died May 6, 1916, and is buried in York township. He was married September 10, 1871, to Miss Lavina Fidler, the daughter of Henry and Polly (Bertram) Fidler, natives of Berks County, Pennsyl-
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vania. Lavina (Fidler) Stamm died December 28, 1926. They were the parents of four sons.
Ralph L. Stamm grew up in his father's home in York township and attended the district schools. He attended the National Normal School at Lebanan, Ohio, and also attended Miami University. Mr. Stamm engaged in teaching for 24 years and was identified with the Darke County schools. He received a life certificate in 1923 and for many years was a member of the Ohio State Teachers Association. He received the appointment of postmaster at Versailles, September 23, 1923.
On March 8, 1902, Mr. Stamm was united in marriage with Miss Bertha May Marker, the daughter of Josiah and Isabel (Lyons) Marker, of Wabash Township, Darke County. They have two sons: 1. James Russell Lowell, born August 1, 1903, an interior decorator, lives at Versailles. 2. Edmund Marker, born May 6, 1906, a graduate of Versailles High School and Lima Business College. Since 1925 he has been an assistant in the Versailles post office.
Mr. Stamm has always been a Republican. He served as a member of the local board of education, and also was a member of the county board of school examiners for two terms, and secretary of the Darke County Teachers Reading Circle.
Mr. Stamm and his family are members of the Christian Church. Their nephew, Arthur 0. Marker, has been a member of the family since 1921.
Ercelle Fleming Hawvermale.—As owner and proprietor of the Peerless Markets, at Sidney, Mr. Hawvermale is recognized as one of the city's dependable and progressive merchants. He was born at Berkley Springs, West Virginia, June 4, 1889, the son of Clarence and Nettie (Fleming) Hawvermale.
Clarence Hawvermale, who died in 1891, was a native of Berkley Springs, West Virginia. His wife was born at Moore-
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field, West Virginia. As a young man, Mr. Hawvermale lived at Berkley Springs and he later engaged in the general mercantile business there with his father, George W. Hawvermale, also a native of West Virginia. Mr. Hawvermale was a Democrat and held membership in the Presbyterian Church. There were three children in the Hawvermale family: 1. Ercelle Fleming, the subject of this sketch. 2. Pauline C., married V. W. Twigg, lives at Keyser, West Virginia. 3. Richard Carson, who died November 14, 1914. By a second marriage, Nettie (Fleming) Swisher had the following children: 1. Arnett Swisher, a teacher, lives at Keyser, West Virginia. 2. Lauren, who is assistant manager of the Peerless Markets, at Sidney.
The boyhood of E. F. Hawvermale was spent at Dayton, Virginia, and following his graduation from high school in 1906 he became associated with the grocery business of his stepfather, J. W. Swisher, at Keyser, West Virginia. In 1910 he removed to Piqua, Ohio, as assistant manager of the Swisher stores, and three years later Mr. Hawvermale came to Sidney with Mr. Swisher and they established a grocery business at 115 Main Street, known as the Peerless Market. In 1920 Mr. Hawvermale became sole owner of the enterprise. Three years later he became a retail meat dealer also, and in 1928 established Peerless Market No. 2, on West Poplar Street. In 1931 the third market was added to the system, and it is located on West Water Street. The business has enjoyed a steady and prosperous growth and now employs 23 sales people. A fine trade is maintained.
On August 22, 1916, Mr. Hawvermale was united in marriage with Miss Ruth Saylor Arnold, who was born at Keyser, West Virginia, June 30, 1893, the daughter of Zachery and Annie M. (Stagg) Arnold. Both were natives of Keyser, West Virginia, and died November 6, 1906, and March 15, 1930, respectively. They are buried at Keyser. Mr. and Mrs. Hawvermale are the parents of two children: 1. Jane Louise, born June 10, 1919. 2. Arnold Fleming, born June 9, 1924.
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Mr. Hawvermale is a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, and Retail Merchants Association of Sidney. The family resides at 116 Queen Street.
James Jamison Martz.—As a member of the faculty of Greenville High School, James J. Martz has a wide acquaintance throughout Darke County. He was born at Greenville, May 8, 1872, the son of Jacob T. and Esther Mary (Jamison) Martz.
A complete sketch of Jacob T. Martz appears elsewhere in this history.
The early education of James J. Martz was acquired in the public schools of Greenville, from which he was graduated in 1891. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Ohio Wesleyan University in 1897 and during 1901 took graduate work in botany at the University of Chicago. Mr. Martz began his teaching career at Greenville in 1897, and he continued as a teacher until 1908, at which time he was elected superintendent of schools there. Six years later he resigned in order to enter business as an associate of the United States Chemical Company at Greenville. After two years with that corporation he spent two years in the employ of the Purity Preserving Company of Greenville, and in the fall of 1918 retired from business in order to accept the appointment of superintendent of schools at Germantown, Ohio. After three years with that school system Mr. Martz returned to Greenville as a teacher of science and mathematics in the local high school.
On November 19, 1902, Mr. Martz was united in marriage with Miss Farrie I. Cline, the daughter of David A. Cline, of Waverly, Ohio. They have a daughter, Margaret Cline Martz, born August 7, 1916. She is a senior at Greenville High School.
Mr. Martz is a Republican and he and his family hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church at Greenville, of which
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he has been a member of the official board for ten years. He also belongs to Greenville Lodge, F. & A. M., Chapter and Council, and is a member of the Greenville Country Club. He has been secretary and treasurer of the Board of Trustees of the Greenville Carnegie Library ever since the Board of Education appointed the Board of Trustees, and has been reappointed to the Board (in 1933) for another seven years.
Jacob Teuchman Martz, deceased, was a well known citizen of Greenville, where he spent many years as superintendent of city schools and as a successful lawyer. He was born on a farm near Greenville in 1833. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, who had settled in Darke County in 1829. As a young man Jacob T. Martz became interested in the teaching profession and was identified with the district schools of the county.
In 1856 Mr. Martz was graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University, after which he continued his teaching career. He also studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1861. However, after a year in private practice at Greenville, he accepted the position of superintendent of Greenville schools. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted for service but was rejected as it was deemed more necessary to retain him in a teaching capacity. In August, 1865, Mr. Martz was appointed receiver for the Cincinnati and Mackinaw Railroad Company, and that particular work occupied his time and attention during the next five years. He again resumed his office as superintendent of schools at Greenville in 1871 and continued for 18 years in that capacity. From 1890 until the time of his death, February 28, 1911, Mr. Martz engaged in the private practice of law at Greenville. He is buried in Greenville Cemetery.
On September 19, 1860, Mr. Martz married Miss Esther Mary Jamison, the daughter of James M. Jamison, of Delaware County. To Mr. and Mrs. Martz were born four sons: John H.; Adelbert;
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James J.; and Benjamin F. Esther M. (Jamison) Martz was a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University. She died October 8, 1902.
Baird Broomhall.—Among the most successful attorneys of Miami County is Baird Broomhall, of Troy. He was born here October 20, 1884, the son of Addison F. and Estella (Baird) Broomhall.
Addison F. Broomhall was a native of Ohio, born at Wilmington in July, 1856, and died in 1925. He was the son of Webb and Adelaide (Finkle) Broomhall. Addison F. Broomhall was educated in the public schools and studied law. He engaged in practice in the city of Troy from 1881 until the time of his death in 1923, and ranked among the leading corporation lawyers of his time. He also was retained by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, and numerous insurance companies as counsel. Mr. Broomhall was married December 25, 1882, to Miss Estella Baird, the daughter of Davis and Martha E. Baird of Troy. They had two children: 1. Baird, the subject of this sketch. 2. Corrinna B., born June 17, 1887. She married 0. W. L. Coffin, who is secretary of the Cleveland Real Estate Board, and is the Ohio administrator for the National Recovery Act, and lives at Cleveland. They have two children, Baird and Betty Caryl. Addison F. Broomhall is buried in Riverside Cemetery, Troy.
The early education of Baird Broomhall was received in the public schools of Troy from which he was graduated in 1904. He received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Yale University in 1908, the degree of LL. B. at Michigan State University in 1911, and the degree of Master of Arts at Yale University in 1913. He was associated in practice with his father as a member of the firm of Broomhall & Broomhall at Troy, until the latter's death. He then became an associate of L. E. St. John, of Troy, for a period
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of five years, and at the present time maintains a private practice, being a specialist in corporation law.
During the World War Mr. Broomhall enlisted for service and held the rank of lieutenant in the motor transport corps. He also was identified with the personnel division.
On October 10, 1923, Mr. Broomhall married Miss Gwendolyn Baxter Tripp, the daughter of M. H. and Mary Tripp, of Inter-dale, New Hampshire. She is a graduate of North Conway High School and attended LaSalle Seminary at Auburndale, Mass.
Mr. Broomhall is a Republican and is affiliated with the Franklin Lodge No. 14, F. & A. M.; Franklin Chapter, R. A. M.; Franklin Council, R. & S. M.; Coleman Commandery, K. T., Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree, A. A. S. R., and Antioch Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S.; B. P. O. Elks, Eagles, Kiwanis Club, and Troy Country Club. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and Mrs. Broomhall holds membership in the Episcopal Church.
Mr. Broomhall is an ardent sportsman being particularly fond of hunting. He is also a leading golfer. Mr. Broomhall has had published articles and short stories in current magazines from time to time.
Burton E. L. Hyde, M. D.—One of the representative men of Miami County is Dr. Burton E. L. Hyde, who is a noted physician and surgeon of Troy. He is a member of the staff of Stouder Memorial Hospital, and surgeon for the United States Air Corps. He is also a member of the Miami County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association.
Doctor Hyde was born at Troy, Ohio, October 8, 1899, the son of Dr. Frank N. and Cora (Long) Hyde.
Frank N. Hyde, D. D. S., is a successful dental surgeon of Detroit, Michigan. He was born at Bloomington, Illinois, in June, 1877, and received his education in the public schools of Indianapolis, Indiana, where he also studied dentistry. For a number
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of years he practiced at Troy, and later located at Detroit. In 1898 he married Miss Cora Long, the daughter of Martin H. Long, of Troy. She died August 18, 1928, and is buried in Riverside Cemetery, Troy. To Doctor and Mrs. Hyde was born one child, Burton E. L., the subject of this sketch.
The boyhood of Burton E. L. Hyde was spent at Troy and he attended the public schools. After his graduation from Troy High School in 1919 he entered the College of Dentistry at the University of Michigan. After a year of study, however, he transferred to the College of Medicine, from which he received a degree in 1925. During the following four years Doctor Hyde was retained at the university as an instructor in surgery, and since 1929 has engaged in private practice at Troy. He is widely known throughout the state as a capable surgeon and has already established an excellent practice.
On November 17, 1926, Doctor Hyde was united in marriage with Miss Thyra Sheffield, the daughter of C. W. and Catherine (Case) Sheffield, of Valparaiso, Indiana. They have a son, Sheffield Nelson Hyde, born September 14, 1931.
Doctor Hyde is a Republican and belongs to Ann Arbor Lodge, F. & A. M., Ann Arbor Commandery, K. T., B. P. O. Elks, Phi Chi fraternity, Troy Club and Troy Country Club.
While a student at the University of Michigan Doctor Hyde was a member of the University orchestra and also was associated with John Philip Sousa's organization. Doctor Hyde is a first lieutenant in the Air Corps, United States Army.
Warren Coleman, M. D.—One of the foremost physicians and surgeons of West Central Ohio is Doctor Warren Coleman, of Troy, who is the fourth generation of his family to practice medicine. His grandfather, Dr. Asa Coleman, had settled in the city of Troy in 1811 and successfully engaged in practice there until the time of his death in 1872. Warren Coleman was born at Troy,
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September 22, 1865, the son of Dr. Horace and Mary L. (Aldrich) Coleman.
Dr. Horace Coleman was born at Troy, Ohio, in 1824, and died May 12, 1911. He was the son of Dr. Asa Coleman, who was born at Glastonbury, Conn. The latter was the son of Dr. Noah Coleman, born at Glastonbury, Connecticut, in 1700. Noah Coleman engaged in the practice of medicine at Glastonbury for many years and served during the Revolutionary War. His son, Asa Coleman, obtained his education in the district schools and studied medicine in his father's office. He was then associated with him until 1810, at which time he came to Ohio and located at Troy, where he became prominent as one of the pioneer physicians of the community. His son, Horace Coleman, was reared and educated at Troy, and received his medical training at Ohio Medical College, at Cincinnati. He also was associated with his father for several years, and then removed to Logansport, Indiana, where he remained until the outbreak of the Civil War. He served in the U. S. Army and later returned to practice at Troy until 1889. In that year he was appointed chief surgeon of the Pension Department at Washington, D. C., and he served in that capacity until his death, which occurred May 12, 1911. He was married in 1845 to Miss Mary L. Aldrich, the daughter of Stephen Aldrich, of Troy, but a native of Virginia. To Dr. Horace and Mary L. (Aldrich) Coleman were born seven children, of whom Warren, the subject of this sketch, was the youngest.
Warren Coleman acquired his early education in the public schools of Troy, and after his graduation from high school in 1883 he entered Ohio Medical College, at Cincinnati, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1888. He immediately established himself in practice at Logansport, Indiana, but when his father was called to Washington, D. C., Doctor Coleman returned to Troy to take care of the extensive practice of the elder Doctor Coleman. He has continued in practice in this city to the present time. Doctor Coleman is chief of staff
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of Memorial Hospital, of Troy, and has been identified with that institution since its founding many years ago. He is also a prominent member of the Miami County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society, and American Medical Association. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Doctor Coleman was married (first) in 1893 to Miss Catherine Hatch, of Piqua, Ohio, who died in 1898. She is buried in Riverside Cemetery, at Troy. He married (second) Miss Frances Rinehart, of Troy, the daughter of E. F. Rinehart. They have no children.
Doctor Coleman is a Republican, a member of the Episcopal Church, and has the following lodge affiliations: Troy Lodge, F. & A. M.; Coleman Commandery (named in honor of Doctor Coleman's grandfather, Dr. Asa Coleman), past eminent commander; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree; Antioch Shrine, Dayton; and B. P. O. Elks. He also belongs to the Troy Club, Troy Country Club, and Rotary Club, of which he has served as president.
John Lewis Reck, who is secretary of the Covington Building & Loan Association at Covington, is a prominent citizen of Miami County, and a member of one of the oldest and best known families in this section. He was born in Newton Township, Miami County, June 29, 1877, the son of John A. and Mary J. (Teague) Reck.
John A. Reck, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born on a farm near Gettysburg, Darke County, Ohio, July 31, 1844, and died August 25, 1925. He is buried in the Gettysburg Cemetery. Throughout his life Mr. Reck was a successful farmer, and he lived in Darke and Miami counties most of his life. In 1866 he removed to Missouri with his family and resided near Sedalia until 1874. He then returned to Ohio and settled near Pleasant Hill, Miami County.
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The Reck family originally came from Pennsylvania, and had lived near Gettysburg since 1826. Eli Reck, father of John A. Reck, later brought his family to Ohio and settled in Darke County. The village of Gettysburg, Ohio, was named by members of this family in memory of their Pennsylvania birthplace.
John A. Reck served during the Civil War as a member of Company C, 152nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was married in 1866 to Miss Mary J. Teague, of Miami County. They were the parents of seven children, of whom John Lewis, the subject of this sketch was the youngest.
John Lewis Reck attended the district schools of Miami and Darke counties and in 1897 was graduated from Covington High School. He then taught school for two years in Newberry Township, and during the following three years was employed by Joseph Murphy, lumber dealer, of Covington. He then spent three years as manager of a branch lumber yard for Mr. Murphy at West Milton, Ohio. In 1906 Mr. Reck became identified with the Mendon Lumber Company of Mendon, Ohio, as manager, and served in that capacity for almost six years, when he became associated with the lumber interests of E. I. Harlan, at Middletown, Ohio. In 1913 Mr. Reck returned to Covington as secretary of the Covington Building & Loan Associations, and he has continued in that capacity to the present time. It is among the oldest institutions of its kind in West Central Ohio, being organized in March, 1886.
On April 26, 1904, Mr. Reck was united in marriage with Miss Mary A. Wagner of Covington, the daughter of J. G. and Harriet (Pearson) Wagner. They have a son, Lloyd W. Reck. He is a graduate of Covington High School and Defiance College, Bachelor of Arts, class of 1927, and is now assistant secretary of the Covington Building & Loan Association. He is also interested in the general insurance business. He is married and has a son, Carl Lloyd Reck.
Mary (Wagner) Reck died July 17, 1932, and is buried in Highland Cemetery, Covington.
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Mr. Reck is a Republican and is affiliated with Covington Lodge No. 168, F. & A. M., past master; Covington Chapter. No. 215, R. A. M., past high priest; Coleman Commandery No. 17, K. T., Troy; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree, A. A. S. R.; and Order of Eastern Star No. 275. He is also a member of the Kiwanis Club, of which he has served as president.
Mr. Reck has always taken a deep interest in the religious life of the community and is a prominent member of the Christian Church. He has served as treasurer of the Miami Ohio Christian Conference for eleven years, treasurer of the general convention of Christian churches of the United States for five years, deacon of the Covington Church for 18 years, and Sunday school superintendent for four years.
Hon. Fernando Coello Layton.—In the death of Judge Fernando C. Layton on June 22, 1926, the city of Wapakoneta lost one of its most useful citizens, and the legal profession one of its outstanding and highly successful representatives. Mr. Layton was a native of Auglaize County, born on a farm near St. Johns, April 11, 1847, the son of William V. M. and Rebecca Layton.
The entire life of Fernando C. Layton was spent in Auglaize County, with the exception of six years in residence at Washington, D. C., while representing the Fourth Ohio District in Congress. After the completion of a common school education, Mr. Layton enrolled at Wittenberg College, Springfield, and shortly after his graduation from that institution he was admitted to the bar. He practiced continuously until he was elected to the bench.
At the age of 21 years Mr. Layton was elected to his first office as township clerk, and he held that position for three successive terms. He also served as a member of the county board of school examiners for ten years, and for five years was solicitor of the village of Wapakoneta. He was prosecuting attorney of Auglaize
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County during 1874-78, and was three times elected congressman from this district. He was tendered the fourth nomination to the latter office but declined the honor, after having served from 1891 until 1897. He served as a member of the judiciary and appropriations committees, and was recognized as a most useful and intelligent member.
Upon his return to Wapakoneta, Mr. Layton continued the practice of law. He had been associated in practice with his father, and later with his brother, Col. William Layton. The father, Mortimer Layton, had been a prominent figure in the early political life of this section. In 1883 Judge F. C. Layton formed a partnership with C. A. Stueve, which continued until 1898, when Mr. Stueve was elected probate judge. In that year Judge Layton formed a partnership with his son, Roy E. Layton, and the firm of Layton & Layton continued until 1908, at which time he was elected common pleas judge of Auglaize County, being chosen without opposition and twice reelected. He thus served 17 years on the bench. Most of Judge Layton's work was connected with the courts of Auglaize County, although he presided in Mercer, Allen, Shelby, and VanWert counties. He resigned as judge on account of ill health just prior to his death in June, 1926.
On October 24, 1871, Judge Layton married Miss Amelia C. Wehrman, the daughter of William Wehrman, at that time sheriff of Auglaize County. She was born at New Bremen and died April 23, 1927. Judge Layton and his wife are buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta. They were the parents of two sons: 1. Verne D., attorney, who died in 1910. 2. Roy E., attorney, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history.
Judge Layton was familiarly known for many years as "Captain Layton," having received that title because he commanded a company of boys during the Civil War, which were known as the "Home Guards." He was captain of Company G, Ohio National Guard, during 1878-83.
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Judge Layton was a director of the First National Bank of Wapakoneta from the date of its organization in 1884 until his death. He was affiliated with the Knights of Pythias.
Marvin Estey Thomas.—As the capable superintendent of the Miami County Home, Mr. Thomas has a wide acquaintance in the community where he has spent his entire life. He was born in Newton Township, Miami County, January 10, 1878, the son of Branson Thomas and Anna J. (Coat) Thomas.
Branson Thomas was a native of Newton Township, born March 2, 1854. Throughout his life he engaged in general farming. He now lives retired at Ludlow Falls, Ohio. Mr. Thomas was married in 1875 to Miss Anna J. Coat, the daughter of Josiah Coat, of Newton Township. They were the parents of three children.
Marvin Estey Thomas received his education in the district schools of Newton Township and attended Pleasant Hill High School. He was interested in farming on the homestead until his marriage in 1900, at which time he purchased a farm in Miami County. He removed to a farm near West Milton in 1910, and two years later located at West Milton. He has been superintendent of the Miami County Home since January, 1913. During the past 20 years Mr. Thomas has devoted his entire time and effort to the betterment of the institution with which he is identified, and it is numbered among the finest homes in the state. The present building was erected in 1927 and his accommodations for 175 people. The property also contains 156 acres of farm land which is extensively cultivated.
Mr. Thomas was married (first) in 1900 to Miss Edna Mishler, the daughter of John Mishler, of Newton Township. She died in 1903 and is buried in Union Cemetery at Ludlow Falls. Their son, George Clair Thomas, was born in December, 1901. He is a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School, attended Earlham College
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at Richmond, Indiana, and is a graduate of Jacob's Business College, at Dayton. Since 1932 he has lived at Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he is employed by the McMillen Company. Mr. Thomas married (second) in April, 1908, Miss Eltha Mills, the daughter of William Mills, of West Milton, Ohio. They have a son, Erwin A. Thomas, born September 24, 1910. He is a graduate of Troy High School, class of 1927, and Oberlin College, class of 1930. At the latter institution he specialized in the study of music and is prominent as an organist.
Mr. Thomas has always been a Republican. He holds membership in the Friends Church at Ludlow Falls but is an attendant of the Methodist Church of Troy. He is a member of West Central Superintendents and Matrons Association.
Joseph Henry Marlin.—The career of Joseph Henry Marlin has long been identified with the city of Covington, where he has successfully practiced law since 1890. He was born there March 23, 1855, the son of Joseph B. and Mary (Moore) Marlin.
Joseph B. Marlin, deceased, was a prominent pioneer of Miami County, where he was justice of the peace for 21 years. He was born at Newton, Pennsylvania, in 1828. In early life he was a captain on canal boats running out of Philadelphia, and later taught school in Perry County, Pennsylvania. Mr. Marlin came to Ohio in 1848 and settled at Covington. Although he did not study law he took a prominent part in the legal affairs of the community and acted as administrator of estates for many years. He died in 1885 and is buried in Highland Cemetery, Covington. Mr. Marlin was married in 1849 to Miss Mary Moore, who was born near Covington. They were the parents of seven children, of whom Joseph Henry, subject of this sketch, was the third.
Joseph Henry Marlin is a graduate of the public schools of Covington. After his graduation from high school in 1875 he was employed as a clerk in the local stores, and during that time
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studied law in the office of S. S. and J. F. McKinney, of Piqua, Ohio. After his admission to the bar in 1890, Mr. Marlin became established in practice in this city. On January 1, 1898 he began publication of the Covington Tribune, a weekly newspaper, of which he was editor for ten years. He then sold the publication. Since 1877 Mr. Marlin has served as notary public, and has in his possession the commissions which he received as notary from Ohio governors dating from 1877 to 1935 inclusive.
On December 12, 1885, Mr. Marlin married Miss Emma J. Crist, the daughter of Jacob and Mary Crist, of Spartansburg, Indiana. They are the parents of three children: 1. Hugh C., a sketch of whom appears in this history. 2. Mary O., married Allen Poe, lives at Covington. By a former marriage she has a son, William J. Coleman. 3. Lucille, married Bryan Wetzell, lives at Covington, and they have two children, Jane and John.
Mr. Marlin is a Republican and holds membership in the Miami Valley Fundamental Association. He belongs to CovingLodge, F. & A. M. No. 165, past master.
Mr. Marlin served as drum major of the Third Regiment Band of the Ohio National Guard for five years.
Henry Franklin Batdorf is among the capable and well known men of Eaton, where he is superintendent of the Preble County Home. He was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, February 17, 1877, the son of Daniel and Rachael (Donnier) Batdorf.
Daniel Batdorf was a native of Ohio, born at Mansfield in 1846. He was a shoemaker by trade and in early life came to Montgomery County with his parents. He was married in 1868 to Rachael Donnier the daughter of Peter and Lucinda Donnier, natives of Montgomery County. Mr. Batdorf died in 1917 and is buried in Mound Hill Cemetery, Eaton.
Henry Franklin Batdorf spent his boyhood at Dayton and left, school at the age of sixteen years. He was employed on a farm
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in Preble County until 1899, at which time he became identified with the Preble County Home. In 1908 he resumed his farming interests near Campbelltown, Ohio, for three years. He received the appointment of superintendent of the Preble County Home in 1911, and during his many years of service there he has developed a model institution. The original building was erected in 1856, but has been completely remodeled in recent years. At the present time there are 67 people living there, and the home is surrounded by a farm of 196 acres. It is located northwest of the city of Eaton on the New Paris road.
On November 9, 1904, Mr. Batdorf married Miss Minnie Swartz, the daughter of John W. sand Eliza (Michael) Schwartz, natives of Virginia and early settlers of Preble County.
Mrs. Batdorf holds membership in the Church of the Brethren.
George W. Hollopeter.—One of the substantial citizens of Miami County is George W. Hollopeter, who is mayor of Covington, and superintendent of the Highland Cemetery. He was born on a farm near Covington, March 11, 1866, the son of Benjamin and Margaret (Hayes) Hollopeter.
Benjamin Hollopeter, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War. He was born on the Hollopeter homestead near Covington in 1834, his father having been one of the early settlers of Miami County. At the outbreak of the Civil War Benjamin Hollopeter enlisted and served as a member of Company G. 110th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was severely wounded at the Battle of the Wilderness, and also was injured at Antietam. During his life Mr. Hollopeter was interested in farming and was also well known as a carpenter and builder at Covington. He died in 1911 and is buried in Highland Cemetery, Covington. In 1865 he married Miss Margaret Hayes, of Covington, and they were the parents of five children, of whom George W., the subject of this sketch, was the first. Margaret (Hayes) Hollopeter died in 1921.
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George W. Hollopeter acquired his early education in the public schools of Covington. He learned the trade of carpenter at Chicago, Ill., and after ten years in that city returned to Covington in 1892. He resided on a farm near the village and after several years located at Covington. He has been superintendent of Highland Cemetery since 1920.
On September 30, 1888, Mr. Hollopeter married Miss Vinnie Fockler, the daughter of George and Susan (Shade) Fockler, of Covington. She died in 1904 and is buried in Highland Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Hollopeter were born two daughters. 1. Ruth, born September 29, 1889, married 0. E. Martin, and they are the parents of eight children. 2. Irene, born in August, 1891, married Ray Minnick, and they are the parents of eight children. Both daughters reside at Covington.
Mr. Hollopeter is a Republican, a member of the Church of the Brethren, and is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, Order of Red Men, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Junior Order United American Mechanics, and Sons of Veterans.
Mr. Hollopeter was elected mayor of Covington in 1927 and is now serving his fourth term in that office. He has been justice of the peace since 1921 and is still serving in that capacity.
John W. Roby.—Holding high rank in legal circles in Allen County, John W. Roby is also well known in the city of Lima, where he has successfully practiced his profession as a lawyer since 1895. He was born at Delphos, Ohio, January 8, 1868, the son of John and Martha (Searing) Roby.
John Roby, deceased, was a native of Ohio. He was born at Perrysburg, and for many years successfully conducted a produce business at Delphos, Ohio. He later became owner and manager of the Phelian House in that city. He died in 1898 and is buried at Delphos. His widow was born at Maumee, Ohio, and resides at Lima. Mr. Roby was a Republican and belonged to the
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Knights of Pythias. The only child born to them was John W., the subject of this sketch.
John W. Roby grew up at Delphos, Ohio, and attended the public schools, from which he was graduated in 1885. He then spent two years at Ohio Wesleyan University, and in 1891 received the degree of LL. B. at Yale University. He was awarded the degree of M. L. at the same university in 1892. Following his admission to the Ohio state bar in 1892 Mr. Roby gained admission to the District United States Courts. He practiced law at Delphos during 1892-94 in partnership with Horace A. Reeve, as a member of the firm of Reeve & Roby, and in February, 1895, Mr. Roby came to Lima as an associate of the late F. F. Leland. He later practiced with W. J. McLaughlin under the firm name of Roby & McLaughlin, and also for a time was associated with W. S. Jackson. Since 1931 Mr. Roby has engaged in private practice. He has offices at 132 North Main Street. He is attorney for the Union Savings & Loan Company, of Lima.
In 1896 Mr. Roby married Miss Evaline Curren, of Delaware, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Gavitt) Curren, of Delaware County, Ohio. Both are deceased and are buried at Delaware. Mr. Curren was a Civil War veteran and for many years was postmaster of Delaware. He also was interested in the general insurance business. To Mr. and Mrs. Roby were born three daughters: 1. Mary K., a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, Bachelor of Arts. She married J. D. O'Ferrall, of Lafayette, Indiana, and they have two children, Mary and Robert. 2. Martha C., a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, Bachelor of Arts. She married R. C. Stevenson, attorney, of Chicago, and they have two children, Sara and Corwin. They live at Evanston, Illinois. 3. Annette, a graduate of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, Bachelor of Science in Music. She married A. N. Ahlefeld, and lives at Kenton, Ohio.
Mr. Roby has always been a Democrat. He is a member of the Episcopal Church, past president of the Lima Rotary Club, mem-