1000 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY growing trade and began the erection of a building of their own which was ready for occupancy in January, 1895. This is a substantial brick structure five stories in height and fifty by one hundred and twenty-five feet. A side track connects their building directly with the main line of the railroad and their employes number one hundred and fifty who are constantly busy in preparing the output which consists of all kinds of paper boxes and paper bags. Their trade covers the entire country, the business having become one of the most extensive productive industries of Dayton. In March, 1895, the senior member of the firm, W. J. Auli, lost his life in the fatal catastrophe of the steamer, Longfellow, on which he was a passenger, the boat going down with all on board. Following his death the business was reorganized, another brother, J. W. Aull, succeeding the deceased partner while the firm style of The Aull Brothers Paper & Box Company was assumed, at which time F. N. Aull became the president. The business from the beginning has enjoyed a substantial and continuous growth attributable in large measure to the executive force, unfaltering enterprise and laudable ambition of him who is now at the head. On the 2d of October, 1889, occurred the marriage of Mr. Aull and Miss Mary Ella Wetzer and they now have three children: Edgar C., Marjory and Frances. The parents are members of the Grace Methodist Episcopal church and are prominent in the leading social circles of the city. Mr. Aull belongs to the Dayton City Club, of which he is the second vice president and he also holds membership with the Bicycle and Country Clubs. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he earnestly desired its success, therefore giving his aid and his influence to secure the adoption of its principles. He is not, however, an aspirant for office, caring to figure in no public life except that of a successful business man. He well deserves mention in this volume as a representative of one of the old families of Dayton, continuously connected with this city since 184o save for a brief interim. His personal worth alone, however, would entitle him to be numbered with the leading residents of Dayton, as in all particulars he measures up to the full standard of honorable manhood while his energy and ability make him a dynamic force in the business circles of the city. J. A. GLASER. J. A. Glaser is one of the younger representatives of farming interests in Wayne township, Montgomery county, where he is now the owner of one hundred and thirty-two acres of rich and valuable land, to the cultivation of which he gives his entire attention. Mr. Glaser was born in Miamisburg, September 3, 1873, a son of J. A. and Catharine (Glaser) Glaser. The former was born in Germany and in early life came to America, settling first at North Platte, Nebraska, He acquired his education in the common schools and for a time worked at day labor but eventually learned the boiler-maker's trade, working at the same until a few years ago, when he retired and is now spending his days in comfort and rest. The mother,, however, died when our subject was but six years old. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1001 J. A. Glaser of this review pursued his studies in the schools at Bath until he was a youth of seventeen years. He then started out to face the stern responsibilities of life by working at farm labor, in which he was engaged for six years. He then went to Dayton, where for eight years he was employed in the Canby wholesale house. In the meantime he had carefully saved his earnings and purchased the farm of one hundred and thirty-two acres on which he now resides. This property is located in Wayne township and is one of the best improved in this section of Montgomery county. Besides raising various grains, Mr. Glaser also gives much of his time to raising hogs, in which he is quite successful. Mr. Glaser established a home of his own- by his marriage to Miss Anna Rashford, a daughter of James and Anna Rashford. The latter is now deceased and the former makes his home in Dayton, where he is employed at day labor. Mrs. Glaser was born, reared and educated in Dayton and by her marriage has become the mother of an interesting little daughter, Rose Marie, now seven years old and a student in the Fairview district school. Mr. Glaser is a member of the Catholic Foresters of Ohio, in which he has filled office. Starting out in the business world at the age of seventeen years, Mr. Glaser showed himself ready to meet any obligation of life with the confidence and courage that come of conscious personal ability, and this has been one of his chief characteristics through his entire business career, and thus success for him has been assured. HERMAN RIESAU. Herman Riesau, a well known and successful agriculturist of Butler township, is the owner of a fine farm of sixty-four acres. His birth occurred in Hanover, Germany, on the 17th of March, 1849, his parents being Henry and Regina (Brolmen) Riesau, who spent their entire lives in the fatherland. Henry Riesau was the owner of a farm and also conducted a milling business. He was about sixty years of age at the time of his death, while the demise of his wife occurred a few years ago. Their family numbered seven children, namely : Herman, of this review ; Eliza, who is deceased; Henry ; Frank, who took up his abode in the state of Washington after coming to this country ; Regina; William ; and Dietrich. Herman Riesau obtained his education in the schools of his native land and was a young man of eighteen years when he set sail for the new world, being anxious to avail himself of the advantages and opportunities which he had heard might be enjoyed in America. After landing in this country he made his way to Springfield, Ohio, where he remained for two years, on the expiration of which period he came to Montgomery county and turned his attention to farming. Subsequently he was engaged in the jewelry business at Cincinnati for a time but returned to his farm in Butler township, this county, and has since devoted his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits with gratifying success. His property comprises sixty-four acres of rich and arable land and the well tilled fields annually yield golden harvests in return for the care and labor which he bestows upon them. 1002 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY In December, 1875, Mr. Riesau was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Eickhoff, who was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, in the fall of 1849, her parents being Henry and Dorothy (Huffman) Eichkoff, the former an agriculturist of Harrison township, Montgomery county. Both Mr. and Mrs. Eichkoff are now deceased and lie buried at Beardsheer Chapel in Harrison township. They reared a family of nine children. Mr. and Mrs. Riesau are the parents of three children. Orion, who was born in 1876, follows farming in Butler township. He married Miss Ada Davidson and has one child, Isabelle. Alpha, whose birth occurred in 1878, like wise makes her home in Butler township and is the wife of Frank Johnson, by whom she has two children, Mildred and Rolland. Clifford, born in 1888, is at home and assists in the operation of his father's farm. In his political views Mr. Riesau is a democrat and has served as school di-rector of Butler township, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. Both he and his wife are consistent and faithful members of the Luth-eran church at Vandalia, the teachings of which they exemplify in their daily lives. The hope that led him to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than realized. He found the opportunities he sought and through their wise utilization has gained a degree of prosperity that entitles him to recogni-tion among the substantial, enterprising and representative residents of his community. CHARLES JACOB BENNER. Charles Jacob Benner, a well-to-do farmer of Miami township and the owner of one hundred and seventeen acres of fine land near Miamisburg, was born on this farm, December 10, 1857, it being the old home place. He is the son of Philip and Amelia (Heinecke) Benner, who were farmers in this county. The family originally came from Maryland, and the paternal grandfather, Jacob Benner, was its first member to settle here. He was accompanied by his father, who was one of the oldest men in the county at that time. Jacob Benner wedded Miss Mary Gebhart and their son Philip spent his entire life on the old home-stead, becoming a very prominent farmer. He died here August 13, 1866, and his wife passed away March 31, 1902. In their family were three sons : Henry, a resident of Miami township ; Charles. Jacob, of this review ; and Edward, a resident of Green county. Charles Jacob Benner has received all his education in the schools of this county and is accounted one of the self-made men of this locality, for he has always been dependent upon his own efforts since the age of nine, when he was de-prived of a father's advice and. guidance. To farming he has devoted all of his years, giving particular attention to the raising of tobacco. This latter branch of his work has proved very profitable and to his liking, and he is one of the largest tobacco growers in Montgomery county. On the 29th of November, 1892, in West Carrollton, Mr. Benner was united in marriage to Miss Rosa Meienberg, a daughter of Arnold and Fredericka (Buehner) Meienberg. Her father, a saddler by trade, is still living, but her mother passed away on the 21st of June, 1899. In their family were four children; namely : Clara, the wife of John J. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNT - 1005 Farrell of Miamisburg ; Rosa, the wife of our subject ; Albert, also a resident of Miamisburg; and Minnie, the wife of David Crickbaum, of Covington, Ohio. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Benner : Arnold P., who is at home and assists on the farm ; Lawrence J. ; Paul M. ; June R. ; Pauline L.; and Burnett Benjamin, born September 15, 1909. The family are all members of the Lutheran church and by the uprightness of their lives bear witness to the wisdom of its teachings. Besides his church interests Mr. Benner has fraternal relations with two organizations, for he is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men and belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. In the work of both societies he is active and is one of those who is ever ready to assist either when it is a case of helping a fellow member or advancing the interests of the lodge. Dependent upon himself from such an early age, one might be inclined to marvel at the success which has attended his efforts and the powers Mr. Benner has exhibited did they not know his diligence, his capacity for hard work and the good management which has ever distinguished him. These characteristics have not only achieved success for him in his line of work but have also won for him the respect of his fellow citizens. JAMES C. MARTIN. Prominent among the enterprising, progressive and successful merchants of Dayton is James C. Martin, who is engaged in the sale of pianos. He has conducted business here for a quarter of a century and, representing some of the best manufacturing houses in this line, he has secured a liberal patronage which is also indicative of his close conformity to a high standard of commercial ethics in all business transactions. He was born on a farm in Madison county, Ohio, in 1849 and was there reared amid rural surroundings, his time being divided between the tasks assigned him in the district schools, the pleasures of the playground and the work of the home farm, as he was trained to the labors of the fields under the direction of his father. At the age of eighteen he began teaching school and afterward entered Holbrook's Normal school, where he spent five months each year for four years. In 1871 he went to Little Rock, Arkansas, and continued reading law which he had begun in 1870. He was admitted to the bar by the examination in Little Rock in 1872, and the same year was there appointed clerk of the criminal court, in which capacity he served until 1874, also acting as chief clerk in the office of the attorney general of the state. The dual service brought him wide and varied experience concerning the practice of law and on the 27th of June, 1874, he returned to Ohio and was admitted to practice before the courts of the state on the 22d of September following. In the fall of the same year he was a candidate for prosecuting attorney of Madison county, Ohio, but was defeated. He then removed to Columbus, Ohio, where he engaged in teaching school and in 1876 became connected with the schools of Liverpool, Ohio. During that year on the 27th of December, 1876, Mr. Martin was united in marriage in Champaign county, Ohio, to Miss Elizabeth Athens Pence. He remained to finish his term of school in Liverpool and then went to Lafayette, Madi- 1006 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY son county, Ohio, where his father had a general store. He taught three months in Lafay-ette in the summer of 1877, after which he returned to Liverpool, to take charge of the school for an eight-months term. In 1878, again in 1879 and in 188o-1 he taught in Liverpool, after which he withdrew from educational circles to become interested in commercial lines. He accepted a position as salesman in a piano house in Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained until 1883, when he came to Dayton and at once opened a store for the sale of pianos and musical instruments. The first day he sold two pianos and has since enjoyed substantial success result-ing from his constantly increasing- patronage. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Martin have been born three children, who are yet living: Rodney Webster ; Gretchen Elaine, the wife of H. S. McMullen, of Dayton; and Mildred Mary. The parents hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and are highly esteemed socially. Mr. Martin gives his political support to the republican party and at different times has been active as an office holder. In April, 1878, he was elected justice of the peace for Deer Creek township in Mad-ison county, where he served for three years. A year later, having removed to Pike township in the same county, he was there elected justice of the peace and again served for three years, during which time he was also township assessor and for two years was road supervisor of the township. He now prefers to concentrate his energies upon his commercial interests and has become recognized as one of the leading piano merchants of Dayton, building up a business of large and gratifying proportions. WILLIAM BENTON WEAVER. William Benton Weaver is an enterprising and progressive young farmer, man-aging his father's interests on the homestead property of sixty-five acres, situated in Miami township on the Germantown road, a mile west of Miamisburg. His birth occurred on this farm, January 28, 1889, and he is the second in order of birth in a family of four children born to Noah and Nattie Weaver. The former was born and reared in Montgomery county and for many years was actively engaged in farming, becoming one of the prominent and well known citizens of this section of the state. He is now living retired, enjoying in well earned ease the fruits of his former toil. The other children of the family are: Ella, who is now deceased ; N. Ellwood. who was married August 18, 1909, in West Carrollton, to Edna, daughter of Henry Eicher of that place ; and Anna, who died March 17, 1909. William B. Weaver, the eldest son of the family, acquired his education in dis-trict *school No. 9 and gained his knowledge of farming under the able direction of his father on the home place. He now manages and operates the home farm, consisting of sixty-five acres in Miami township, and is known as a hard worker and a man of progressive methods. In addition to his farming interests he also raises some stock, which he ships to the city markets, and he likewise handles lum-ber, each branch of his business bringing him a good income. Mr. Weaver gives his political support to the democratic party and is identified with the Lutheran church, to which the other members of the family also DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1007 belong. His fraternal relations are with Ben Hur Lodge, No. 7, at Dayton. Fond of travel, as a means of higher education, Mr. Weaver in the spring of 1909 made a trip to Mexico and is planning an extensive trip for the near future. He believes in constant progression and puts forth strenuous efforts that today may find him farther advanced than yesterday in a social and financial position. He is popular among the young people of this section, being a worthy representative of the Weaver family who has long been known in agricultural circles. HORACE GREELEY PFOUTZ. An excellent farm of eighty acres situated on the township road about three miles west of Trotwood, in Madison township, is the property of Horace Greeley Pfoutz, and he derives therefrom a substantial annual income. His entire life has been given to general agricultural pursuits and everything about his place indicates the spirit of enterprise and progress which has actuated him in all of his work. He was born in this county, July 23, 1851, and is a son of. Samuel and Sarah (Wogomar) Pfoutz. The former was a son of Samuel and Rebecca (Rinehart) Pfoutz. The grandfather of our subject came from Carroll county, Maryland, and travelling westward by wagon, became one of the first settlers of Montgomery county, Ohio. He took up a tract of land from the government and with characteristic energy began the development of a farm which in the course of years was brought under a high state of cultivation. He assisted materially in the early development of his part of the county, particularly in promoting the agricultural progress. His son, Samuel Pfoutz, the father of our subject, also made farming his life work and for a number of years resided upon the place which is now the home of his son Horace. He worked diligently and persistently until he had acquired a handsome competence which now enables him to live retired in the enjoyment of well earned rest. Unto him and his wife were born five children : Cynthia ; Horace G. ; Mary ; Laura R., deceased ; and Amy. Reared in the usual manner of farm lads, Horace Greeley Pfoutz pursued his education in the district schools, mastering all the branches of learning therein taught. Under his father's direction he received ample training in the work of the fields, learning the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting. He soon learned to know when it was best to put in crops and how to care for them until they were brought to fruition. As the years have gone by his business affairs have been capably manager and he is now the owner of an excellent tract of land of eighty acres, which he has brought under a high state of improvement. His farm is equipped with all modern conveniences and in addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and ,climate he also raises some stock. The dwelling, which is just off the road, is a large two-story brick structure, tastefully and comfortably furnished. In the rear are good barns and outbuildings and everything about the place indicates the enterprise of the owner. On the 2d of January, 1881, Mr: Pfoutz was married to Miss Katie Ullery, a daughter of Stephen and Catherine (Mumma) Ullery. Their children are three in number. Etta E., the eldest, became the wife of Charles Shank, a farmer. 1008 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Guy E. was a student in the Trotwood high school at the time of his death, which occurred when he was twenty years of age. Glenn Greeley is now a student in the high school and makes his home) with his father on the farm. The wife and mother passed away in January, 1907, and her remains were laid to rest in Pleasant Hill cemetery. She was a member of the Brethren church and an earnest consistent Christian, whose many good traits won her the love and esteem of those with whom she was brought in contact. Mr. Pfoutz also belongs to the United Brethren church and his children are likewise connected therewith. The family has always been a most highly respected one, the name of Pfoutz standing for good citizenship and progress in all lines of life since the grandfather came to the county in pioneer times. CHARLES INSCO WILLIAMS. Charles Insco Williams, one of Dayton's skilled and successful architects, is a native of Cincinnati, his birth having there occurred in 1853. He remained a resident of that city until he reached the age of sixteen years, when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Dayton. He had previously attended the public schools and in 1870 he was graduated from the Chickering Institute of Cincinnati, after which he received technical training in the Troy Polytechnic School of New York. From early youth he had manifested a strongly developed taste in scientific lines and his reading and education had qualified him for responsible undertakings of that character. In 1873 he was employed in civil engineering along the line of the Northern Pacific railroad, after which he returned to Dayton and for seven years maintained an artist's studio. On the expiration of that period he entered the employ of the John Rouzer Company, lumber dealers of Dayton, with whom he continued for two years, when in 1882 he opened an office as an architect and has since continuously followed the profession in which he has made steady advance, being now recognized as one of the most prominent representatives of this calling not only in Dayton but in the state. His standing in the profession is indicated by the fact that he was the architect of the Stivers Manual Training High School of East Fifth street, the Algonquin Hotel, the Reibold Building, the Sacred Heart church, the Insco apartment house, the Bellevue apartment house, the old Young Men's Christian Association building on Fourth street, the Trinity Reformed church, on Jefferson street, the Dayton City Club and the Callahan Bank building, all of Dayton, and was also the architect of two school houses in Riverdale, a school building in North Dayton and the Methodist Episcopal church in North Dayton. Many of these structures are ornaments to the city, indicating as well the superiority which Mr. Williams manifests in his profession. In 1879 Mr. Williams was united in marriage in Dayton to Miss Susan Dorothy Boyer, a daughter of D. K. Boyer, and they have four sons, Howard Insco, Louis Boyer, Dick K. and Roger. Mr. Williams exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party, manifesting intelligent appreciation of its sterling principles and the policy pursued in the management DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1009 of government affairs. He is an exemplary representative of Masonry and holds membership in the Commandery, the Consistory and the Mystic Shrine. He also belongs to the Dayton City Club, to the Christ Episcopal church and his interests thus touch many vital affairs in the life of the city and the individual. An artistic temperament makes him keenly appreciative of the beautiful and moreover his influence is always on the side of right, truth and progress. CHARLES RENCH. Charles Rench, a veteran of the Civil war, who throughout his entire business career has been connected with the Third National Bank of Dayton, of which he is now the vice president and cashier, is recognized as a man whose history is the story of orderly progression under the steady hand of one who is a consistent master of himself and who displays mature judgment, not only of his own capacities but also of the people and circumstances that make up his life's contacts and experiences. Born in Dayton, in 1844., he is a son of John and Mary (Croft) Rench, who were natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively. The interests of his youth were those which usually claim the time and attention of the city bred boy. He was educated in the public schools, mastering the work of consecutive grades until he was graduated from the high school with the class of 1861. The following year, on the 1st of August, 1862, when he was a youth of but eighteen, he offered his services to the government, constrained by a spirit of patriotism, becoming a private of Company B, Ninety-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served for three years, after which he was mustered out at Nashville, Tennessee, in June, 1865, receiving his honorable discharge a little later at Camp Denison, Ohio. He was orderly sergeant when he left the service and for a time had command of his company: While but a boy in years he displayed valor and loyalty equal to that of many a veteran twice his age. He was in all of the engagements from Chattanooga to Atlanta, also in the battle of Nashville and in others of lesser importance, brit never did he falter in the performance of duty, whether on the firing line or the picket line. When the country no longer needed his military aid, Mr. Rench returned to Dayton and engaged in clerking for a time, but soon entered the Second National Bank and continued with its successor, The Third National Bank, when it was reorganized in 1882. His initial position was a comparatively humble one but gradually he has worked his way upward as he has mastered the principles and details of banking until 1890 he was made cashier, while in January, 1909, he was chosen vice president and now occupies the dual position. The bank follows a progressive policy which, however, is tempered by a safe conservatism and in its continued success Mr. Rench has been an active factor. In June, 1866, Mr. Rench married Miss Fannie B. Long, of Dayton, who died in January, 1867, and he was again married in November, 1869, his second union being with Miss Mary F. Gilliland, who departed this life in 19o7. In his family are seven children, namely : Glena, who married C. E. Ainsworth, of Dayton, and 1010 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY has one child ; Alice, who married Edward Wuichet, also of this city, and has one child; Mary, who is the wife of W. P. Galloway, living on a plantation in Louisiana, and they have three children ; Jeannette, at home ; Lewis L., who is in the collection department of the Third National Bank ; Robert, who is with the Ohio Automobile Company; and John C., who is attending the high school of Dayton. Fraternally Mr. Rench is connected with both the subordinate lodge and encampment of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, is a past officer in both and for twenty years was the efficient and valued secretary of Wayne Lodge No. io. He is also a member of Old Guard Post, No 23, G. A. R. His political endorsement is given to the republican party but he is not an active worker in its ranks. However, he served for two years as city treasurer of Dayton, filling the office in 1870 and 1871. While his financial interests make heavy demands upon his time he is not remiss in the duties of citizenship, his influence and support being given to various movements which are essential elements in the city's growth. JACOB B. GEBHART. Jacob B. Gebhart, a leading farmer of Miami township, Montgomery county, owns one hundred and twenty-two acres of fine land on the Centerville road about two miles from Miamisburg. He is one of the oldest agriculturists of this county and comes from a family who have for generations been identified with agricultural interests. His father, Peter Gebhart, was also born here and was one of its best known men. He was a farmer all his life, but Was also a man of affairs, taking an active part in the local matters of government. He was very prominent in the councils of the democratic party. He married Miss Margaret Brosius, who bore to him nine children: George ; Jacob B. ; Amos ; Wilson, deceased ; Elmore ; Perry ; Elizabeth ; Sarah and Lucinda. Jacob B. Gebhart was born in Montgomery county and attended the common schools here. As was natural he soon commenced farming, even before the close of his school period, and when he attained to man's estate he engaged in that line of work for himself. His industry and his knowledge of the principles of soil culture have united to reward his efforts with more than the average amount of success and to give him a comfortable income. When Mr. Gebhart looked forward to establishing a home of his own he chose as the woman to be his helpmeet Miss Louisa Heinecke, the daughter of Henry and Catherine (Hertel) Heinecke. Her father had come from Germany to this county, where he became one of its well known farmers. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gebhart, of whom six are still living : William Henry, Charles L., Albert T.. Minnie R., Elmer, Anna A., deceased, and Edmund H. Charles L. is the virtual head of the family and upon him devolves the responsibility of the farm. In both church work and local affairs Mr. Gebhart takes an active and efficient interest. He belongs to the Lutheran church, being one of its oldest members, but his participation in the work of the church is not so active as a few years back, though he is still devoted to its welfare and is regular in his attendance at its ser- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1011 vices. In local affairs, he has on many occasions served the people as judge of the elections and always with discrimination and justness, and in other matters and on other occasions has given evidence of his concern for the welfare of the community in which he lives and of the good judgment that is characteristic of him. Aside from this he is a man who finds his greatest delight and recreation in the bosom of his family ; and although he is a sociable neighbor, he could never be persuaded to join one of the fraternal organizations that aim to promote good feelings and kindly intercourse among the people in whose midst they are located. But after all is said Mr. Gebhart remains a man who is respected and honored for the sterling qualities of character he exhibits, for his industry and his integrity. W. S. ARTZ. The stock interests of Montgomery county have indeed found a worthy representative in W. S. Artz, who is well known throughout the entire county as a raiser of and dealer in fine stock. Moreover, he is engaged in general agricultural pursuits, owning and operating an excellent farm in Wayne township, Montgomery county. His birth here occurred July 2, 1860, and he is a son of Henry and Susan (Crow) Artz, natives of Maryland and Virginia respectively. The father, born in 1822; near Fredericksburg, in Washington county, Maryland, was but nine years of age when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio, the family home being established near Fairfield, and at the age of fifteen years he took up his residence upon the farm which has since continued to be his home. He attended the district schools and in early life engaged in teaching for two or three years. Subsequently he took up the occupation of farming and was thus connected until his retirement from active business life. He now makes his home at the venerable age of eighty-seven years, upon the old farm, but he leaves the active management of the place to his son, P. W. His wife, whose birth occurred in 1827, came to Ohio when but two years of age. She was married to Mr. Artz in Miami county in 1847 and was called to her final rest in 1892, her remains being interred in the cemetery at New Carlisle. She was sixty-five years of age at the time of her demise and was a conscientious Christian, holding membership in the Osborn Methodist church; of which Mr. Artz is also a member and in the work of which he takes an active and helpful interest. W. S. Artz, whose name introduces this review, acquired his early education in the common schools and later supplemented this training by a course of study at the National Normal School at Lebanon, Ohio. Thus well equipped for the practical and responsible duties of life, he began his business career as a farmer and has since directed his efforts along agricultural and stock-raising lines. He carries on general farming, owning an excellent farm of one hundred and fifty acres in Wayne township, which is one of the well improved and productive properties of the community. A large portion of his time and attention, however, is devoted to his stock-raising interests, being recognized as one of the most prominent and successful stockmen of the county. He makes a specialty of fine horses and sheep, having on hand eighty head of full blooded Hampshire Down sheep, 1012 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY while he raises heavy draft horses of the Clyde, French and Belgian varieties, as well as horses for general use. He has exhibited his stock at various fairs and has been awarded several prizes. He also has a good breed of dairy cows and made the first shipment of cattle from Dublin, Indiana, to Germantown over the traction line. He resided in Indiana, near Cambridge City, for about six years, and during that period engaged in farming- and stock dealing. He returned to his present farm on the 1st of September, 1906, and prior to his removal to Indiana and while there sold a large number of pure bred hogs. His stock interests have become very extensive and constitute him one of the prosperous and substantial business men of Montgomery county. On the 22d of January, 1885, Mr. Artz was united in marriage to Miss Minnie B. Leffel, a daughter of Peter and Jane (Brandburg) Leffel, who was born June 4, 1864. Her father, who followed the occupation of general farming, was born near Donnelsville, in Clark county, and her mother was also a native of that county. Mr. and Mrs. Artz became the parents of nine children. Harry, the eldest, was born January 12, 1886, and March, 1907, married Ulmer Ward, of Indiana. Blanch, born January 14, 1888, is now the wife of Carl Curtis, of Fayette county, Indiana, who is a general farmer and stock-raiser. They have one child, Grace Elizabeth, born in August, 1908. The remaining members of the family all reside at home and the older ones attend the common schools. They are : Paul, born August 10, 1890 ; Floy, born August 20, 1892 ; Martha, born January 19, 1895 ; Robert, born. February 23, 1897 ; Ralph, born June 2, 1899 ; Mary, born May 17, 1902 ; and Helen, born January 4, 1935. Mr. Artz and his family are members of the United Brethren church of Sulphur Grove, in which he is serving as one of the stewards and also as assistant superintendent of the Sunday school. He is well known in the county of his nativity for his honorable and upright manhood, his social qualities and his public-spirited citizenship, enjoying the respect, confidence and good will of his fellowmen. He has gained a place of prominence among- stock raisers and dealers of Montgomery and adjoining counties, by whom his opinions are largely regarded as authority. His labors have been potent elements in advancing the grade of stock in this locality and public opinion accords him a foremost place among the representatives of live-stock interests of Ohio. ROBERT E. KLINE. With thorough knowledge of the scientific principles and the practical phases of civil engineering Robert E. Kline, in the practice of his profession, has secured a gratifying and growing patronage. He was born in Miamisburg, Montgomery county, Ohio, February 17, 1868, and in his infancy was taken by his parents to Salem, in this county. His father, Jonathan Kline, was long a prominent business man of Montgomery county and at all times enjoyed the respect and good will of his fellow citizens. He was born in Reading, Pennsylvania, and at the age of eighteen years came to Dayton, where he learned the tinner's trade. Sometime later he removed DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1015 to Miamisburg and at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war, being then twenty-one years of age, he enlisted in the Second Ohio Infantry as a member of Company B. He remained with his regiment until it was mustered out and subsequently joined the boys in blue of Company K, One Hundred Eighty-fourth Ohio Infantry, with which he continued until the end of the conflict, proving his loyalty and valor on a number of hotly contested battle fields. Soon after his return from the war Jonathan Kline was married on the 3oth of October, 1865, to Mrs. Massey Stanfield, of Spring Valley, Ohio, and almost immediately after they removed to Salem, where Mr. Kline conducted a tin and roofing business. In 1888, however, he returned to Dayton and afterward carried on his store, at the corner of Fifth and Clinton streets, until about two weeks prior to his demise, when he became ill with pneumonia, passing away on the 11th of December, 1908. He was honored as a Man of genuine personal worth. Honesty and reliability were two of his salient attributes and his leading characteristics were all of a nature that won for him the respect of his fellowmen. He had pronounced religious tendencies and was an influential member of the High Street United Brethren church. He also belonged to Old Guard Post, G. A. R., and was ever deeply interested in the social and business affairs of the order. Unto him and his estimable wife, who survives him, there were born four sons : Charles H., Robert E. and Hubert, all of Dayton ; and Dr. Walter Kline, of Guadalajara, Mexico. Robert E. Kline spent his youth in Salem and was graduated on the completion of a high-school course there. He then continued his studies in Otterbein University, at Westerville, Ohio, where he was graduated with the Bachelor of Arts degree in 1892. He next entered Harvard, where he pursued a scientific ,course, being- numbered among the alumni of that classic old institution of 1893, at which time the degree of Civil Engineer was conferred upon him. Having thus qualified for a professional career, Mr. Kline came to Dayton, where he opened an office and entered upon active practice. He served as county engineer and county surveyor of Montgomery county for two terms of three years each—from 1895 until 1901—and was chosen city civil engineer of Dayton for the term of 1906-07. He now enjoys a liberal private practice, having done considerable important work in the line of his profession. He was one of the contractors who erected the Third street concrete-steel bridge over the Miami river and is now one of the contractors engaged in the construction of the Dayton View concrete- steel bridge over the Miami river. He thoroughly understands the great scientific principles underlying his work and is conversant as well with all of the practical phases of the business. On the 5th of June, 1895, in Dayton, Mr. Kline was married to Miss Agnes L. Lyon, and they have two sons, Robert E. and Donald C. Their home at No. 545 Superior avenue is one of the handsomest residences of Dayton View. Mr. Kline belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and also holds membership with the Foresters, the Modern Woodmen and the Junior Order of American Mechanics. He likewise belongs to the Dayton City Club, the Bicycle Club and until January, 1909, was president of the Garfield Club, serving for two years. He is a member of the First United Brethren church and in his political views is a republican, having supported the candidates of the party since age 1016 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY conferred upon him the right of franchise. While he never seeks office outside the path of his profession, he is never remiss in the duties of citizenship and has cooperated in many movements for the public good. His advancement in his profession has come as the logical sequence of his ability, which is being continually augmented through his research, study and experience. ALFRED L. KLEPINGER. Alfred L. Klepinger is well known as a representative of the educational interests of Montgomery county, being principal of the school district No. 12 in Harrison township. He also has farming interests, although his professional duties are claiming the greater part of his time and attention. He was born on the 19th of January, 1862, on the old Benjamin Miller farm about a mile west of Dayton, this being one of the earlier settled tracts of land in the county. Like many of the pioneers of the state, the Klepingers came first from Pennsylvania, the grandfather, George Klepinger, removing from the east that he might enjoy the better business opportunities offered in this new and growing western country. He therefore cast in his lot with the early settlers who were reclaiming this region for the purpose of civilization, and while he met with difficulties and hardships incident to pioneer life, he resolutely bore his part in the work of general improvement. Henry Klepinger, the father of our subject, was born in this county in 1832 and was long numbered among the widely known and valued citizens of this part of the state. For many years, he successfully carried on general agricultural pursuits, but retired in 1906 in the enjoyment of well earned rest, for his activity and careful management in former years brought to him a comfortable competence. He died May 25, 1909. He wedded Elizabeth Miller and they became the parents of nine children : David W. ; George, 'deceased; Alfred L. ; Ellsworth; Charles ; Mary, also deceased ; Llewellyn G., practicing medicine ; Edwin ; and Howard. Alfred L. Klepinger was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, living the free, open life of field and meadow and learning his lessons from nature as well as from books. He has always made his home in this county and at the usual age, he entered the public schools, pursuing his studies in District No. 1. He displayed special aptitude in his work and when he had mastered the branches of learning therein taught, he took a course in the Miami Commercial College, from which he was graduated. He also spent one year in the Northern Indiana Normal College at Valparaiso and a similar period in the Normal College at Ada, Ohio. He has largely supplemented his learning, however, by reading and study at home and his research and investigation have covered a wide and varied field, so that few subjects can be mentioned upon which he cannot speak intelligently and instructively. After completing his own education, he took up the work of teaching and has since followed the profession, winning for himself a creditable position among the representatives of this line of work. He is able to impart clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he has acquired and mani- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1017 fests much zeal and devotion in the daily performance of the tasks of the school-room. He is also the owner of a small farm of eleven acres in Madison township, which he devotes to the cultivation of fruit, the soil being well adapted for that purpose. His products are marketed in Dayton and he is meeting- with creditable and gratifying success in that department of his business. On the 22d of September, 1895, Mr. Klepinger was married to Miss Mary Olive Miller, a daughter of Aaron and Lovina (Heiman) Miller, who removed from Darke county, Ohio to Montgomery county and became prominent farming people of this locality, where they were well known. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Klepinger, were born five children but they lost their eldest child, Emerson. The others are Wilber E., Glenn L., Parker D. and Florence L. Mr. and Mrs. Klepinger belong to the church of the Brethren and he is now the minister of the Fort McKinley church. His home is on the Salem pike, near Fort McKinley and he is now comfortably situated there. His influence is always upon the side of the true, the good and the beautiful, and both in his school work and from the pulpit he impresses those who come under his teaching with the value of character. HARRY ELDRIDGE MEAD. Harry Eldridge Mead, of Dayton, comes of ancestry that has been distinctively American in both the lineal and collateral lines through many generations, the family having been established in New England during the earliest epoch in the colonization of the new world. The Meads were of the gentry of England and William Mead, a direct ancestor of Harry E. Mead, was born in Kent county, England, about 1600. He became the founder of the family in the new world. The next in the line of direct descent was John Mead, born in 1635, followed by Jonathan Mead, whose birth occurred in-Connecticut in 1665. His son, Timothy -Mead, who was born at Greenwich, Connecticut, April 22, 1701, served as a sol-dier in the Colonial wars and died in Dutchess county, New York, in the latter part of the eighteenth century. He was the father of Timothy Mead II, who-se birth occurred in Dutchess county, New York, January 7, 1724, while his last days were passed in Manchester, Vermont. Truman Mead, his son and the great-grandfather of Harry E. Mead, was born in Manchester, Vermont, July 29, 176o, and died June 21, 1822, in Cooperstown, New York. Azel Mead, the grandfather, was born in Cooperstown, August 12, 1781, and spent his last days in Meadville, Pennsylvania, where he passed away September 21, 1866. Daniel Eldridge Mead, the father, started upon life's journey near Cooperstown, New York, in 1837, and in 1841 became a resident of Dayton,. where he remained for a half century or until his death in 189i. During the period of his residence here he was closely associated with the business development and progress of the city. In 1846 he was connected with others in organizing the firm of Ells, Clifflin & Company for the manufacture of paper, the business being conducted under the original style until 1856 when the name was changed to Weston & Mead. Three years later, in 1859, it became Mead & Weston and later changes 1018 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY in the partnership led to the adoption of the firm style of Mead. & Nixon, in 1866, while a further reorganization of the business in 1881 led to the use of the name of the Mead Paper Company, under which style the business was continued until 1906 when it became the Mead Pulp & Paper Company. Thus for more than a half century the enterprise of which Azel Mead was one of the founders has remained an important factor in the industrial life of the city. It was also in 1846 that Mr. Mead was married. in Dayton to Miss Maria H. Demarest, a daughter of Isaac Demarest, the pioneer wholesale grocer of this city. They became parents of three children : Florence, who died in 1892 ; Charles Durkee ; and Harry E. The wife and mother passed away in September, 1853, and in 1870 Mr. -Mead was again married in Dayton, his second union being with Ella I. Demarest, a sister of his first wife. They became parents of two sons : D. Eldridge, who died in 1907 ; and Joseph Weston, who passed away in 1900. It will thus be seen that with the progress of the sun the Mead family have made their way westward, passing from New England to New York, Pennsylvania and to Ohio and in Dayton Harry E. Mead was born March 26, 1853. The public schools afforded him his educational privileges until he was given the opportunity of attending Phillips Academy at Andover, Massachusetts, where he remained for a year and a half. He then returned to Dayton and spent six months in the Miami University at Oxford, Ohio. Subsequently he entered Hobart College at Geneva, New York, where he continued his studies for two years and on again coming to Dayton he entered the office of the Cooper Insurance Company, thus becoming his father's assistant in business. He spent three years and a half there and during the succeeding fifteen,years was the head of the firm of H. E. Mead & Company, wholesale dealers in paper. In 1891 he returned to the Mead Paper Company, manufacturers, as vice-president and so continued until 1906 when the business was reorganized under the name of the Mead Paper Company, of which George II. Mead, a son of II. E. Mead, is now vice-president and general manager. In 1881 Mr. Mead of this review organized the Chicago Paper Company of Chicago, jobbers in paper and was president for ten years. He has long figured as one of the foremost representatives of the paper trade in this part of the country and his excellent powers of organization, his executive ability and administrative direction have been important features in the successful control of a number of the leading industrial and commercial concerns of the city. Dayton moreover, has profited by his labors in other directions for he served as vice-president of the Dayton Board of Trade and is now a member of the Oakwood board of education. Neither has he been unknown in military circles for in 1872 he joined the Dayton Zouaves, later known as the Irish Guard and rose to the rank of second lieutenant and later served as first lieutenant and captain, continuing in command of the company until 1883, when he resigned. In 1886, he was made colonel on the staff of Governor Joseph B. Foraker and held that rank for two years. On the reorganization of the Ohio National Guard in 1899 he was elected colonel of the Third Infantry and commanded the regiment for five years, at the end of which time he declined a reelection. On the 30th of November, 1876, Mr. Mead was married in Dayton to Miss Mary Anna Houk, a daughter of the Hon. George W. Houk, now deceased. Unto this marriage there were born four children, of whom three died in childhood, the DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1019 surviving son being George H. Mead, who was born November 5, 1877, and Paperw vice-president of the Mead P*per Company. Mr. Mead belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and also to the Dayton City Club, the Buzfuz Club, the Country Club and the Episcopal church. He is a man of soldierly bearing, strong and purposeful, accomplishing what he undertakes by reason of the fact that he has always recognized that when one avenue seemed closed there is always opportunity for the accomplishment, of the same purpose in other ways. Moreover he has never regarded any position as final but rather as a starting point to larger accomplishment. He stands among the most honored and respected residents of Dayton not alone because of the success h.e has achieved but also owing to the straightforward business policy he has ever followed. CHARLES EDGAR ULLERY. It seems hardly possible that a century ago Montgomery county had but few white settlers and that Indians were frequent visitors to the district, while at various points among the forests of the state were found wigwams of the redmen who had ample opportunity to indulge in hunting and fishing, relieving them of the necessity for more difficult labor in order to secure a livelihood. The forests today have all disappeared and the land has been converted into productive fields, rich with the autumn harvests that are indicative of the fertility of the soil. Charles Edward Ullery is numbered among those who are successfully carrying on general farming in Madison township. He owns a tract of fifty-five acres on the String-town & Air Hill road about two miles north of the village of Trotwood. His birth occurred on the old Yount farm in this county on the 28th of November, 1855. He is the eighth in order of birth in a family of nine children whose parents were Moses and Mary (Christina) Ullery. The father was born near Little York in this county and as the years passed by became one of the men of affluence in this part of the state. His diligence and enterprise brought to him gratifying success so that in the course of years he became the possessor of a capital sufficient to enable him to live retired as he is doing at the present time. He makes his home in Trotwood and has reached the advanced age of eighty-three years. His father came to this -county from Pennsylvania and was a very prominent and influential farmer in the early days. In the family of Moses and Mary Ullery there were the following children : Amanda ; Jane ; Marion ; Warren ; Ellen ; Laura ; William ; Chrles Edgar ; and Emma, deceased. . Charles Edgar Ullery has always lived in Madison township and his educational advantages were those offered by the district schools, wherein he mastered the usual branches of English learning that prepared one for the transaction of business and the meeting of the daily duties of life. In the summer months, when not occupied with his text-books he worked in the fields and learned to know the best time to plant the crops just as surely as he learned the multiplication table. He learned also to judge of the richness of the soil and to know the requirements of different crops and thus in all of his work practical experience has been the basis of his success. He has never sought to gain a livelihood in any other line of labor 1020 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY than that to which he was reared, for farming- has been to him a congenial occupation and his place of fifty-five acres is now under a high state of cultivation. On the 2d of February, 1890, Mr. Ullery was united in marriage to Miss Anna Eversole, a daughter of Daniel Eversole, who was a farmer by occupation and was a native resident of this part of the state. The Eversoles resided mostly in Greene county and are prominent farming people. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Ullery has been blessed with two children, Edna Irene and Vera Isabel, both of whom are now attending school. The parents have a wide acquaintance in this part of the county and enjoy the warm regard of all with whom business or so-cial relations have brought them in contact. JOHN EMORY GIMPERLING, JR. John Emory Gimperling, Jr., conducting a profitable and growing business in Dayton as a manufacturer's agent, was born in Xenia, Ohio, while his mother was there on a visit from Louisville, Kentucky. He is a son of John E. Gimperling, Sr., who was born and reared in Hudson, Ohio, and when a young man went to Xenia. After residing in the latter place for sometime, he removed with his family to Louisville, Kentucky, and subsequently became a resident of Indian-apolis, Indiana. In fact his work took him to various places. When about nine-teen years of age, he entered the railroad service, first as a brakeman and later working his way upward until he became a railroad president. He held various offices in connection with different roads, his ability and close application winning him successive promotions. In January, 1879, he came to Dayton where he still resides. In 1901, he began business here as a manufacturer's agent, handling railroad supplies and continues in this line to the present time. He was married in Xenia, Ohio, in 1869, to Miss Eleanor A. Martin and unto them were born four children of whom one son died in infancy, while three are yet living: John E., of this review; Thomas N., who is a second lieutenant in the Twenty-first Regiment of the United States Army; and Eleanor A., the wife of Robert MacGreggor, of Dayton. John E. Gimperling was a young lad when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Indianapolis, Indiana. He was educated in the schools of Xenia and of Dayton. On leaving school in 1887, he entered the Dayton Car Service Bureau as clerk, there remaining for eighteen months when he accepted the position of secretary and treasurer of the Riverton Coal Company of Dayton. He remained with that company for two years and also with its successors, the Wainwright Coal Company, which he represented as traveling agent upon the road for two years or until 1895. On that date, he became connected with the Milton Coal Company of Chillicothe, Ohio, as traveling salesman and so continued until 190o, when he went to Colorado, where he engaged in mining and prospecting for four years. On the expiration of that period, he returned to Dayton and joined his father in the business in which he is now engaged, the father handling railroad supplies while the son handles steam engine and steam supplies and in DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 1021 some lines they are associated. The firm now controls an excellent trade as manufacturers' agents, their patronage still increasing. Mr. Gimperling belongs to the Masonic fraternity and also to No. 3, United Commercial Travelers, of which he is a past counselor. He likewise belongs to the Third Street Presbyterian church and is well known in local military circles as captain and quartermaster of the Third Infantry of Ohio National Guard. His political allegiance has always been given to the democratic party and he is a member of the board of education at the present time. He is much interested in the cause of the schools and in all matters relative to public progress, withholding his cooperation from no movement which he deems of benefit to the community at large. JAMES EDWARD CONLEY. Throughout all the ages there have been men who have been equal to the demands of the times ; who meet the needs arising from varied and constantly changing conditions ; and who through the exertion of their powers and talents are aiding in promoting the world's work. It has been stated by scientists and men who have made a study of the question that within a comparatively brief time the forests of the country will be .exhausted. But though this might at first suggest a calamity, it has even been proven that when one seeming necessity no longer exists, something has come to take its place. Already the use of lumber has been greatly lessened through the manufacture and adoption of cement products, and it is in this connection that James Edward Conley is well known, being the president of the J. E. Conley Company, contractors for cement paving and roofing, also for general construction work. Concrete is not only rapidly taking the place of timber, but also of stone and other building materials, and Mr. Conley has built up a profitable and constantly growing enterprise in this connection, becoming recognized as one of the leading and representative business men of Dayton. He is a native of Yellow Springs, Greene county, Ohio, born August 18, 1867, the son of Patrick Conley, who was born in County Armagh, Ireland, in 1824 and came to America in 1830. After living for some time in Greene county, Ohio, he moved with his family to Dayton in 1869. He was married in Springfield, Ohio, to Miss Ellen Bellew and unto them were born five children: Mary Ann ; James E. ; Margaret E., the wife of Frank Wirtz, of Glendale, Ohio ; Catharine, the wife of William McCarthy, of Dayton ; and Patrick J., of Dayton. The husband and father died in 1906, while the mother is still living in this city. James Edward Conley was in his second year when his parents removed to Dayton and here his youthful days were passed, his time being largely spent in the pursuit of an education in the public schools until he reached the age of seventeen years. He then started to work for the Gem City Paving & Roofing Company, with which he was connected for eight years during which time he gained broad, practical experience and comprehensive knowledge of business of that character. In 1892, he started upon an independent venture, taking contracts 1022 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY for cement paving and roofing. He still continues in this line of business and has also extended the scope of his activities to include general construction work. The contracts awarded him have called him into various sections of the country and he has also done much work in Dayton, especially in street paving. As the years have passed—seventeen in number—since Mr. Conley started in business for himself; he has made steady progress, utilizing his opportunities to good advantage and giving entire satisfaction by reason of the thoroughness of his business methods and the excellent manner in which contracts are executed. In Dayton, in 1891, Mr. Conley was united in marriage to Miss Laura B. Simpson, of Montgomery county, Ohio, and unto them have been born two daughters, Helen S. and Mabelle E. In his fraternal relations, Mr. Conley is a Mason and, taking various degrees of the York and Scottish rite, he has attained high rank in the order. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and is a member of the Dayton City Club, the Bicycle Club and the Mystic Club. He is also connected with the First Reformed church and the dominant forces in his life are such as have won for him the respect of his fellowmen. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and while he does not seek office, he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of The- day. While his business affairs claim the major part of his time and attention, he has never neglected' those other interests which constitute forces in the life of every well rounded character, coming into active association with those elements which influence the political, social and moral advancement of the community. WILLIAM LEONARD CATEN. William Leonard Caten, secretary of the Reynolds Aertite Carton Company of Dayton, was born in Syracuse, New York, August 29, 1861, and is a son of Lawton and Flora (Hoyt) Caten. His father spent most of his life in Syracuse, where he was born in 1835 and died in 1905. He built the Fonda, Johnstown & Gloversville Railroad, which he owned and managed from 1869 until 1898. His wife, who was born near Syracuse in 1839, passed away at Gloversville, New York, in 1880. In their family were five children : William Leonard, of this review ; Eva A., the wife of Frederic Remington, of New York ; Clara, the wife of H. L. Burr, of Gloversville; Emma L., a resident of Syracuse ; and Frederick A., of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. William Leonard Caten was a little lad of eight summers when the family removed from his native city to. Gloversville, New York, where he continued his education, pursuing his studies there until 1879. More liberal advantages were then accorded him, enabling him to pursue a course in the St. Lawrence University, at Canton, New York, from which he was graduated in 1883 with the degree of B. S. That year also witnessed the arrival of Mr. Caten in Dayton and now for more than a quarter of a century he has made this city his home, participating in the various phases of its life and assisting in its progress and substantial improvement. He first entered the employ of the Southern Coal & Iron Company, with which he continued for a year in a comparatively humble capacity, when he succeeded to the