500 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY recognizing the fact that a knowledge of the science of jurisprudence always constitutes a valuable asset in a business career. Following the removal of the family to Dayton, he left the city early in 1837 and for ten years was engaged in farming. In 1848, however, he returned to this city and for a long period thereafter was a factor in business circles by reason of his extensive operation in banking, real-estate lines and building. He brought intricate business problems to ready and correct solution because of his keen insight and sound judgment. He quickly discriminated between the essential and the nonessential, discarding the latter and utilizing the former in the accomplishment of the result he desired. He was interested in the Third Street Railway, the Dayton & Springfield pike and the Cooper Hydraulic Company, and was one of the organizers of the Second National Bank, continuing as its president up to the time of his death. On the 18th of October, 1837, occurred the marriage of William P. Huffman to Miss Anna M. Tate, a daughter of Samuel Tate. They had a large family numbering the following: William, deceased ; Martha Bell, the wife of E. J. Barney, of Dayton ; Lydia H., the wife of James R. Hedges, of Dayton ; Charles T., deceased ; Lizzie, the widow of Charles E. Drury ; Samuel, who died in early boyhood; Torrence and Frank, both of Dayton ; George P. ; and Anna M. While he was widely known as a successful financier and business man, William P. Huffman's activities did not cease with his efforts in those lines but were an element in behalf of general educational and moral progress. He belonged to the Linden Avenue Baptist church and for fifteen years was a member of the board of trustees at Denison University at Granville, Ohio. A contemporary biographer said of him: "A man of clear, sound, practical judgment and exceedingly conservative and reliable in all transactions, the name of William P. Huffman stood as a synonym for wisdom and safety in the business circles of Dayton. As a man of integrity and moral worth, he was a strong factor in molding the Christian sentiment of the community of which he was for many years a worthy and honored citizen." Reared amid the refining influences in a cultured home, Frank T. Huffman spent his early days in Dayton as a pupil in the public schools and afterward attended Denison University at Granville, while subsequently he pursued a special course in civil engineering under Dr. Dickinson near Trevilians Station, Virginia. Later he went to Colorado, where he devoted four years to ranching and mining, and in 188o he returned to his native city, where he became connected with the wholesale and retail hardware business in partnership with George F. Rohr under the firm style of George F. Rohr & Company. He had been associated with that enterprise for a year and a half when he withdrew and for a few years thereafter was connected with building operations in Dayton and with farming in Montgomery county, erecting a number of substantial residences in this city. He next became chief clerk and cashier in the internal revenue office of Dayton, where he remained for two years, and in 1888 he was elected treasurer of Montgomery county, where he discharged his duties with such promptness and acceptability that he was reelected, continuing as the incumbent for four years. On the expiration of that period he retired from office and for a time conducted real-estate operations. In 1895 he was elected treasurer of the Davis Sewing Machine Company and in 1897 became vice president and general man- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 501 ager, while the following year he was elected to the presidency and has remained at the head of the business continuously since. In 1888 Mr. Huffman was married in Dayton to Miss Ada McIntire, a daughter of the late John K. McIntire, and their children are three in number : John McIntire Huffman, Evelyn Van Tuyl Huffman and Frank T. Huffman. Mr. Huffman is well known in Masonry, having taken the degrees of the Scottish Rite, the Commandery and the Mystic Shrine. He also belongs to the Dayton City Club and to the Buz fuz Club, his social interest thus finding expression. He manifests his interest in the moral progress of the community as a member of Linden Avenue Baptist church, and he gives his political support to the republican party. Whether in office or out of it he has always been a loyal, progressive citizen, cooperating whenever possible in the movements calculated to promote public progress along lines of reform and advancement. JOHN BIERSACK. John Biersack, a market gardener of Mad River township, is the owner of twenty-seven acres of rich and productive land just off of the Troy pike, about two miles from the courthouse. His birth occurred in Dayton, Ohio, on the 14th of June, 186o, his parents being Andrew and Barbara Biersack. The paternal grandfather, an expert mechanic by trade, spent his entire life in Germany. Andrew Biersack, the father of our subject, obtained his education in the schools of Germany and in early manhood crossed the Atlantic to the United States, taking up his abode in Montgomery county, Ohio. Here he purchased a tract of land and engaged in gardening. He was numbered among the substantial, enterprising and respected citizens of his community until his death, which occurred August 24, 1909, at the age of eighty-one years. In pursuit of an education John Biersack attended the schools of his native city and at the same time also worked on the truck farm with his father. He has been successfully identified with market gardening throughout his active business career and now owns and operates a fine farm of twenty-seven acres in Mad River township, his products meeting with a ready and profitable sale. On the 16th of February, 1885, Mr. Biersack was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Roth, a daughter of George and Mary (Cruesemeyer) Roth, who were farming people of Germany. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Biersack have been born six children, namely : Cecilia, Herbert and Irma, who have completed their education ; and Alphonse, Lauretta and Mary, who are attending school. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Biersack has given his political allegiance' to the men and measures of the democratic party and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to positions of public trust. He is now serving as trustee of Mad River township and also as a member of the school board, discharging his official duties in a prompt and efficient manner. He belongs to the Knights of St. George, No. 104, of Dayton, Ohio, and to the Holy Rosary church. A resident of Montgomery county throughout his entire life, his record is largely familiar to the great majority 502 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY of our readers. His genuine personal worth and sterling traits of character have won him the unbounded confidence and esteem of the entire community and the respect and admiration of all with whom he has come in contact. C. H. BREIDENBACH, M. D. Dr. C. H. Breidenbach, engaged in the general practice of medicine and since 1899 acting as surgeon for the Dayton fire department, has given undivided attention to his profession for more than a decade. He was born in the city which is still his home in 1867, and, as the name indicates, comes from German lineage. His father, Daniel G. Breidenbach, whose birth occurred in Germany, July 6, 1826, was a young man of twenty years when he determined to make his home in the new world, reaching Philadelphia on the 13th of May, 1846. Two months later he came to Dayton, where he entered business life as a shoemaker and as he prospered in the course of years he opened a retail shoe store and for a long period was a prominent representative of mercantile interests here. There came an interruption in his commercial career, however, when in response to a call for troops he served for one hundred days, joining the One Hundred and Thirty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and during the period of his enlistment was stationed at Baltimore. He was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and also a charter member of the German Pioneer Society. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and from 1875 until 1881 he served as a member of the board of education, while in 1883 he became assessor of his ward and occupied that position for fourteen years. He died October 22, 1903, and his wife passed away October 22, 1892. B0th were members of the German Evangelical church. Mrs. Breidenbach bore the maiden name of Anna Trieschman and was also a native of Germany. Their wedding was celebrated in 1848 and was blessed with eleven children ; Elias, second vice president of American Federation of Painters and Paper Hangers ; Conrad, an organ builder of Piqua, Ohio ; Catherine, the wife of J. W. Fouts, of West Alexandria, Ohio ; Mary, who became the wife of Lawrence Kirchner and died in March, 1894; J. W., a printer of Dayton ; Emma, who became the wife of P. M. Weaver, of Dayton, and died in Dayton, September 13, 1907 ; C. H.; Anna, the wife of Samuel Monneman of Dayton ; and three who died in infancy. Of this family Dr. C. H. Breidenbach is the youngest son and has made for himself an enviable position as a medical practitioner in his native city. He pursued his education in the public schools here and entered business as an employe in the drug store of Dr. J. C. Reeve, Jr. Later he took up the systematic study of pharmacy and was graduated from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy in 1888. He then became a student- in the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati, from which he was graduated in April, 1898. Immediately afterward he located for practice in Dayton, where he has since followed his chosen calling. He has done excellent work as a general practitioner and since 1899 he has acted as surgeon for the Dayton fire department. He is also serving on the staff of the Miami Valley Hospital and is recognized as an able physician of wide general DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 503 knowledge in all the branches of his profession. He was formerly well known as a prosperous druggist of the city, having in 1890 established a store at the corner of Fifth street and Jefferson. He attained particular skill as a chemist and his ability in that direction as well as his knowledge of the various properties of drugs have constituted splendid equipment for his medical practice. He is now serving as first vice president of the Market Savings Bank of Dayton. On the 3d of April, 1893, Dr. Breidenbach was married to Miss Anna Danner, a popular teacher, who for seven years had been connected with the fifth district school. They have two daughters, Isabel and Anna Marie. Dr. and Mrs. Breidenbach hold membership in the St. John's Lutheran church and he belongs to the Masonic fraternity, in which he has taken the degrees of the Scottish Rite and the Mystic Shrine. He is also a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Pythias and the Patriotic Order of Sons of America. His political allegiance is unfalteringly given to the republican party, which finds in him a stalwart advocate. In professional lines he is connected with the Montgomery County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association. An interest in scientific research and broad humanitarianism, as well as a commendable desire to achieve financial success, are features in the professional work of Dr. Breidenbach and are bringing him to a prominent position in professional circles. WILLIAM J. ROSENCRANS. A review of the business life at Dayton at once brings to light the fact that is has a very large number of extensive and profitable industrial c0ncerns and that it is one of the centers of the iron and steel trade of the country. With this great department of labor William J. Rosencrans is connected as the president of the American Foundry & Casting Company and the great enterprise is a monument to the business ability, energy and laudable ambition of him whose name introduces this review. A native of Fairfield county, Ohio, he was born upon a farm in the year 1870 and in his youthful days attended the district schools, participated in the pleasures of the playground or performed such tasks as were assigned him by parental authority. Thus the years passed until he reached the age of sixteen when, desirous of providing for his own support and, making his start in the business world he went to Springfield, Ohio, where he began learning the molder's trade. In the year 1891 he came to Dayton and entered the employ of the Brownell Company, representing that and other iron concerns until 1904 when he organized and established his present business under the name of the Advanced Foundry Company. This was not an incorporated concern but was successfully conducted until 1907 when Mr. Rosencrans organized the company of which he is now president. When he arrived in Dayton he had but twenty-five cents. He possessed, however, what is far better than capital—the substantial qualities which are always the basis of success, such as industry, perseverance and determination. He sought and secured immediate employment and from time to 504 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY time his industry and his economy enabled him to add to his capital. When he and his partner organized the Advanced Foundry Company they had twenty-three hundred dollars between them and when they had erected the building they were several hundred dollars in debt and had nothing with which to pay workmen or the running expenses of the business. With firm and unflinching purpose they bent their energies toward the establishment of a trade, solicited orders, filled them according to contract time and established a reputation for reliability and enterprise which gained for them a constantly growing patronage. They now have a plant valued at fifty thousand dollars and their business is enjoying substantial growth and yielding good returns. In 1893 Mr. Rosencrans was married in Springfield to Miss Sarah Condren and they now have one son, William R. Mr. Rosencrans belongs to St. Joseph's Catholic church and also to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is a typical young business man of the present age, alert and energetic, recognizing the advantages which the businesopportuniers and utilizing his opportuni-.ties with the result that he is sn0adily forging ahead. He allows no obstacles to bar his path if they can be overcome by persistent and honorable effort and already he has attained an enviable position in industrial circles. C. D. SLAGLE, M. D. Dr. C. D. Slagle, one of the prominent physicians of Centerville, was born August 29, 1871, in Sciotoville, near Portsmouth, Ohio, and is the son of Dr. Jacob and Margaret (Dodge) Slagle. The mother is still living in Portsmouth, but the father, who was born in Olpa, in the province of Baden, Germany, on the 20th of July, 1847, died January 29, 1904. He was but an infant when his parents, George and Mary (Schaffer) Slagle, came to this country. The former was born March II, 1811, in Baden, Germany, the son of Shriver Slagle, a Frenchman, and was educated in the land of his birth. He followed the life of a winemaker and farmer. In 1848 he disposed of all his business and came to this country, making his way immediately to Ohio. He settled in Scioto county and followed the life of a fanner until his death, which occurred March 27, 1877. His wife, who was born1810,aden, Germany, December 11, 181o, survived him something over six years, her death occurring on the anniversary of her birth, 1883. Dr. Jacob Slagle received his education in the common schools of Ohio, and his medical degree from the Miami Medical College in Cincinnati in 1877. He began the practice of his profession in Scioto county,. where he remained for about twelve1890.s locating in Portsmouth in 189o. Six years later he went to California but returned to Ohio in 1901, making his home in Troy, this state, until his death, which occurred January 29, 1904. For three years he served in the Union Army during the Civil war, enlisting in 1862 as a member of the Forty-seventh Kentucky Volunteer Infantry. Seven children were born to him and his wife : C. D., Franklin J., Willard G., Clara B., Catherine M., Otto S. and Harland E. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 507 C. D. Slagle received his early education in the common schools of the place of his birth and later attended the high school at Wheelersburg, Ohio, from which he was graduated. For the next two years he was taught by a German, Professor Neihbuer. In 1894 he entered the Starling Medical College, at Columbus, Ohio, from which he received his degree in 1897. Thereupon he joined his father in Portsmouth and for a year assisted him in caring for his patients. The work was heavy, however, and told upon the health of both men, so that they were compelled to leave and go to California, though the younger man remained here for a short time to close up the business and did not go west until 1898. He practiced there for a short while, but was not very favorably impressed with the country and returned to this state in July, 1898. Montgomery county has been the scene of his professional labors ever since. On the 22d of April, 1896, was solemnized the marriage of Dr. Slagle and Miss Mayme L. Bandau, of Portsmouth. She is the daughter of George and Mary (Stoll) Bandau. George Bandau was for ten years a minister of the United Brethren church until failing health compelled him to abandon that work for less strenuous labor in the commercial world. His wife died June 15, 1909. Dr. and Mrs. Slagle's union has been blessed with five children—Marian M., William L., Marie L., Ethelyne L., and George W. C. The two eldest are of an age to attend school. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are conspicuous in all its work. Dr. Slagle enjoys fraternal relations with the Knights of Pythias in Centerville, Ohio, and is also a member of several societies that look to the advancement of his profession, belonging to the Montgomery County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical' Society, the Mississippi Valley Medical Association, and the American Medical Association. In the summer of 1902 he added 'to his professional efficiency by a post-graduate course in the New York Post Graduate Medical school and New York Lying-In Hospital. In the years that he has practiced in Centerville he has made a reputation for discrimination and good judgment in the diagnosis of cases and the careful and conscientious care of patients. He is in consequence held in high regard and deservedly so. GEORGE B. BOLENDER. George B. Bolender, a gardener of Harrison township, Montgomery county, was born in this county, October 7, 1876. His paternal grandfather, Jonathan Bolender, came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and was among the first settlers in this section of the county. He was at one time the holder of extensive tracts of land in and about the city of Dayton, to whose future development he contributed his share, and was accounted a good business man. When death called him he was buried in Woodland cemetery. In his youth he had married Miss Rebecca Dunbar, and of this union was born Joseph Bolender, the father of the subject of this sketch. He greeted the light of day in this county and has passed the greater number of his years here. From the public schools he received the fundamentals of his education, and to gardening he has devoted 508 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY his life and energies since returning from the Civil war, for he was one of brave men to whom the nation owes its preservation. He enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-first Ohio Infantry, under Colonel Wallace, and served, with honor to himself and state, in the Army of the Potomac. He married Miss Elizabeth Crawford, who bore to him six children : George, the subject of this sketch ; Oliver ; Rebecca ; Lucy ; Walter and Lorette, both deceased. George B. Bolender received from the common schools of Greencastle, Indiana, his formal education, but as with most boys who live on a farm the lessons of school and work about the home place were prosecuted at the same time. The valiant patriotism that distinguished the grandfather and father seemed to have been transmitted to .the son, for at the outbreak 0f the Spanish war, in 1898, George Bolender enlisted in the Third Ohio Volunteers. He did not see active service at this time, however, for he was kept at Tampa, Florida, until after the battle of Santiago, when he was mustered out at Columbus, Ohio. The desire to fight for his country was still strong, however, so he reenlisted in the regular army, in the Third United States Infantry, with whom he went to the Philippines under Colonel Page. There his services extended over three years, during which time he took active part in the engagements at Bintoa Church, San Yldefsorso—there were two skirmishes at this place—Mason Road and Riaconabate, a battle which continued through four days. After his Philippine service he entered the Coast Artillery, where he did efficient work, and from which he was discharged with an excellent character. In contrast to his years of military activity and uncertainty a home of his own seemed especially desirable, so upon his return to Dayton, Ohio, Mr. Bolender married Miss Bessie Shawen. Mrs. Shawen makes her home with her daughter, for the father has been dead some years. During his life he was a resident of this county and was well known as a hardworking, honorable man of acumen and ability in the business world. Mr. and Mrs. Bolender are now the parents of three sons : Lawton E., Clyde T. and Melton H. Mr. Bolender is frequently one of the congenial spirits in the gatherings of the Red Men, and in the company of the other members of the local post of the Spanish War Veterans, revives the memories of those years of struggle. He is still a young man who has the best years of his life yet to live, and if one may judge from the record left by his earlier life there is every reason to be confident that the remaining span allotted to him will be filled with noble endeavor and work well done, which will be its 0wn reward. WALTER B. MOORE. With splendid powers of organization and a faculty for coordinating forces in a way that produce maximum results, Walter B. Moore is well qualified for his present position as secretary of the Chamber of Commerce of Dayton. He was born in this city, February 22, 1875, and acquired his education in the public schools, which he attended to the age of fourteen, when he started out in the business world as an employe in a machine shop. Later he entered the Barney & DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 509 Smith car shops, where he remained from 1890 until 1894, as an employe in the varnishing department, at the end of which time he became stock clerk for the National Cash Register Company and while thus employed took up the study of stenography and typewriting, which he learned, together with bookkeeping. For eight years he remained with the National Cash Register Company, serving in twelve different departments as successive promotions gained him transfers. His last service was that of secretary of the building committee and assistant to the engineer of maintenance and construction. In 1905. he left that company and became secretary and commissioner for the Dayton Receivers & Shippers Association, which at that time had but two dollars in its treasury and a membership of thirty-three. Mr. Moore raised the membership to one hundred and twenty-five and continued to act as secretary until May 1, 1908, when the organization was merged into the Chamber of Commerce and designated as the Traffic Bureau of the Chamber of Commerce. At that time Mr. Moore became secretary and general manager of the latter organization, which is his present connection. He is accomplishing excellent results in this direction for the benefit of the trade interests and commercial activity of the city and it would be difficult to find one in Dayton who is more thoroughly informed concerning business conditions here and the possibilities that lie before Dayton for the enlargement of her trade connections. On the 31st of January, 1906, Mr. Moore was united in marriage in Dayton, to Miss Julia S. Cowan, and they have one daughter, Marjorie Ann. Mr. Moore belongs to the Knights of Pythias and to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He has a military record, by reason of his enlistment for service in the Spanish-American war on the 5th of May, 1898, at which time he became corporal in Troop F, First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. He was mustered out at Columbus in the following October. His troop was the first at Chickamauga, thence went to Lakewood, Florida, and afterward at Huntsville, Alabama. From that point the troop went to be mustered out at Columbus. In political circles Mr. Moore is also well known, being recognized as one of the local leaders of the republican party and is now serving for the second term as councilman at large, being elected on the republican ticket. He is actuated in all that he does by a public-spirited devotion to the general good and his labors have won for him substantial recognition in business and political circles, his fellow townsmen recognizing his worth and the value and effectiveness of his labors. WILLIAM H. KIMMEL. William H. Kimmel, starting in business life as a messenger in the Merchants National Bank is now holding the responsible position of secretary of the Mutual Home & Savings Association in Dayton. He was born here November 22, 1865, and his youthful days passed uneventfully in the pursuit of an education and in the enjoyment of the pleasures common to the boys of the locality and period. After passing through the consecutive grades in the public schools of Dayton he entered the Miami Commercial College, of this city, from which 510 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY he was graduated in the class of 1884. Thus equipped for the duties of a practical business life he entered the Merchants National Bank as messenger and was employed there for a year. In 1885 he came to the Mutual Home & Savings Association as receiving teller, and in 1891 was promoted to, the position of bookkeeper, in which capacity he served until 1894, when he was elected secretary of the company and is now active in the control of its affairs, managing his department in a most thoroughgoing, systematic and progressive manner. On the 26th of December, 1888, in Dayton, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Kimmel and Miss Julia Ruckhaber, and unto them have been born five children: Walter R., Alfred William, Herbert Charles, Helen Louise, and Marie Adelaide. Mr. and Mrs. Kimmel hold membership in the Wayne Avenue Evangelical church and are interested in its work and contribute liberally to its support. Mr. Kimmel is a republican in politics but has never been an aspirant for office, for on the contrary he has concentrated his energies upon his business affairs and it has been through his close application and fidelity that he has won successive promotions to the preSent position of responsibility which he now occupies. REV. AMOS HYRE. Rev. Amos Hyre, who for the past twenty-seven years has preached the gospel as a minister of the German Baptist church in Madison township, is a worthy representative of one of the old pioneer families of Montgomery county. His birth occurred in Madison township, this county, on the 14th of March, 1846. The grandfather, Wesley Hyre, who was a native of North Carolina, came to Madison township when this section of the country was almost entirely covered with timber, which he had to clear away before the land could be utilized for farming purposes. He lived to attain a ripe old age and passed away in the faith of the German Baptist church, of which he was a valued and devoted member. He and his wife reared the following children : Wesley, Solomon, Isaac, Moses, Abraham, Absalom, Daniel, Belinda and Nancy. Moses Hyre, the fourth son of Wesley Hyre and the father of our subject, was born in Madison township, Montgomery county, March 19, 1819. By trade he was a bricklayer and also conducted a sawmill in association with his brother Absalom. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Rebecca Stoner, was a native of Frederick county, Maryland, and a daughter of William and Elizabeth Stoner. By this union there were born the following children : William, Amos, Sarah and Susan. Subsequent to his marriage Moses Hyre settled on a tract of land in Madison township, where he spent his remaining days, being called to his final rest when seventy-three years of age. He was likewise a faithful and consistent member of the German Baptist church and was widely recognized as a substantial, respected and highly esteemed citizen of his native county. Rev. Amos Hyre acquired his education in the common schools and remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage at the age of twenty-one years. Soon afterward he took up his abode on his present farm of seventy-six acres in Madison township, which at that time was only partially cleared. As DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 511 the years have gone by, h0wever, he has transformed the place into a model farming property by systematic cultivation and the erection of substantial and attractive buildings. As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life the Rev. Hyre chose Miss Mary Denlinger, whose birth occurred in Madison township, September 14, 1843, her parents being Abraham and Margaret (Miller) Denlinger. Unto them were born five children who are yet living, namely : Jennie; Edwin E., who wedded Miss Susie Eichelberger, by whom he has the following children : Emma, Edith, Orville, Sylvia, Jessie and Russell; Wilmer A. who married Miss Pearl Enby and has two children, Clifford G. and Cecil I; Maizie, who is the wife of David Moore and has a daughter, Mary V. ; and Orphia M., who is at home. Rev. and Mrs. Hyre also had several other children who are now deceased. Since December, 1881, Rev. Hyre has served as a deacon in the German Baptist church, while since the 28th of April, 1882, he has been minister thereof, his labors proving a potent element in the moral advancement of the community. He is one of the best known and most highly respected residents of Montgomery county, where he has made his home throughout his entire life, and is honored and esteemed not alone for his devotion and zeal in spreading the gospel but also for his many sterling characteristics as a man and citizen. J. FRANK KIEFABER. The mention of business interests and enterprise in Dayton at once brings to mind several important commercial and industrial concerns, among which is that of the Barney-Smith Manufacturing Company, of which J. Frank Kiefaber is now secretary and treasurer. To control interests of such extent and importance require men who possess keen discernment, unfaltering enterprise and the strong determination that enables one to persevere even in the face of seemingly in surmountable obstacles and difficulties. These qualities are characteristics of Mr. Kiefaber, who started upon life's journey in Dayton on the 28th of October, 1867. As a public-school student he mastered the common branches of English learning and then when he put aside his text-books he secured a positi0n as yard clerk with the Dayton & Ironton Railroad. Company, of this city, remaining in that employ for three years. He next entered the service of the Standard Oil Company at Des Moines, Iowa, where he continued for two years, after which he returned to Dayton in 1891 and entered the employ of the Barney & Smith Company as bookkeeper.. His ready appreciation of the opportunities of the business, the thoroughness with which he discharged his duties and the capability which he displayed won him recognition in successive promotions and thus he climbed steadily upward until he became secretary and treasurer of this company, which is one of the most important operating in industrial lines in Dayton, theirs being the most extensive car works west of the Alleghanies and one of the largest manufacturing concerns of the state. 512 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY In 1891 Mr. Kiefaber was married in Dayton to Miss Florence E. Gilbert, a daughter of Philip E. Gilbert, but she died in October, 1907. The children born to them are J. Gilbert, Erminie G. and Rollin D. The family are well known socially and have the warm regard of many friends who extend to them the cordial hospitality of their homes. In his political views Mr. Kiefaber is a republican and keeps well versed on the questions and issues of the day. He is opposed to anything like misrule in municipal affairs and does not hesitate to cast an independent ballot if he feels that the occasion demands. He is an exemplary representative of the Masonic fraternity, has attained a high degree in the Scottish Rite and has also crossed the sands of the desert with the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He belongs to the Dayton City Club, Dayton Bicycle Club and Country Club, nor is he unmindful of the higher, holier duties of life, his interest in religious work being indicated in his membership in the First Baptist church. Possessing a fine tenor voice, he devotes this talent mostly to church and Masonic work and has always taken an active interest in the Philharmonic Society. He is also a member of the Dutch Club, a musical organization composed of ten of the best male voices in the city. He has been almost a lifelong resident of Dayton and those who have known him longest are numbered among his stanchest friends, a fact which indicates that his life has been worthily spent. JOHN WALKER NIXON. John Walker Nixon, who holds a prominent place among the representative citizens of Dayton, Ohio, is superintendent of the Montgomery county infirmary and has, during the last few years, been a conspicuous figure in political circles of this city. He was born in Warren county, this state, July 24, 1859, a son of James Riley and Mary Ann (Doan) Nixon, both natives of that county. The father devoted his entire life to the occupation of farming. Reared under the parental roof, John Walker Nixon acquired his education in the common schools of his native county He continued to make his home in Warren county until 1890, when he removed with his wife and daughter to Dayton, where he has since resided. Here he became identified with the railway interests of the city and was thus connected in various capacities for nineteen years, or until the 1st of February, 1909. when he was elected superintendent of the Montgomery county infirmary. Although he has been incumbent in office for but a short time, he has already proven that the trust reposed in him by his fellowmen has not been misplaced, for aside from the strict performance of the duties of this office he also devotes considerable attention to humanitarian conditions. On January 24, 1882, Mr. Nixon was united in marriage to Miss Eva F. Wass, a daughter of John and Mary Wass, of Warren county, and unto this union was born one child, Zella. The parents of Mrs. Nixon were, natives of England, and after arriving in this country Mr. Wass was identified with railroad interests, working for the Pan Handle Company for forty-two years. Mrs. Nixon, DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 515 who occupied the position of matron of the infirmary until her death, which occurred March 22, 1909, was a lady of many fine traits of character and by the capable way in which she managed the affairs under her direction proved a most valuable assistant to her husband. Since the death of Mrs. Nixon, the daughter, Zella, has acted as matron. Mr. Nixon is an active and helpful member of the Christian church, the teachings of which he exemplifies in his daily life. His wife was also affiliated with this congregation. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise he has been a stalwart supporter of the democratic party and for the past four years has been a most active and prominent figure in local politics, doing especially effective work among the railroad men. His efforts have been a force toward furthering the influence of his party in the community and the position which he now holds has come to him as an acknowledgment on the part of his fellow citizens, not only of the services performed by him but also of his own personal worth and honorable, upright manh00d. ORIEN P. SWARTZEL. Orien P. Swartzel, who is a teacher in the schools of district No. 1I A, Harrison township, and the owner of seven acres of land on the Frederick pike, was born October 5, 1851, in Sunbury, near Germantown, Ohio, and is the son of Abraham and Margaret (Craig) Swartzel. The paternal grandfather came from Saxony, Germany, and located in this county, where he was among the early settlers. The father was born in Montgomery county, and after he had reached man's estate removed to German township, this county. His interests were those of a farmer and he cultivated with creditable success a tract of seventy acres of good land. Six children were born to him, of whom our subject was the third, the two older being William and James. Orien P. Swartzel received his introduction into the field of learning in the schools of Preble county. Graduating from these, he went to the college at Lebanon, Ohio, pursuing courses there through 1870, 1871, 1872 and 1873. In the last year he received his well earned degree. After leaving college he took up teaching and to this profession has devoted all his time and energy since, during a period of thirty-seven years. The schools of both Preble and Montgomery counties have profited by his devotion to his profession, and it is hoped that he will not soon carry his labors to other fields. In May, 1877 was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Swartzel to Miss Hattie Feerer, daughter of Jacob and Nancy (Ward) Feerer. Only one child, Guy D., has been born to the couple. He was graduated from Otterbein University, and is a young man of fine ability, who is following in the footsteps of his father. The family give their support to the Methodist church and in their daily lives uphold its teachings. Mr. Swartzel is an active member of the Vandalia Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is regular in attendance at its meetings. He also takes an efficient interest in the social and philanthropic work of the society and is ever 516 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY eager to promote the welfare of his fraternal brothers. He has done a great deal in raising the standard of the schools of Montgomery county, and of the professional services he has rendered the community the people are duly appreciative. His efforts are met with good-will and encouragement, and it is the universally expressed wish that the schools may continue to profit by his guidance. The small farm which Mr. Swartzel may sometimes be seen cultivating himself during leisure hours, affords' him a pleasant relaxation from the duties of the school room. EDWIN E. HYRE. Edwin E. Hyre, a worthy representative of the agricultural interests of Madison township has spent his entire life within the borders of Montgomery county. He is a young man of unfaltering enterprise and in all of his farm work manifests a most progressive spirit. He was born February 10, 1871, and is a grandson of Moses and Rebecca (Stoner) Hyre and a son of Amos and Mary (Denlinger) Hyre. The father is a man of broad and liberal education, who for many years devoted his life to the work of the ministry but is now retired, making his home in Madison township. Unto him and his wife were born nine children: Willis, deceased ; Jennie ; Edwin E.; Anna, also deceased ; Wilmer ; Clarence, who has passed away ; Sylvia, who has also departed this life ; Mazie ; and Orpha. In the grammar schools Edwin E. Hyre pursued his education, dividing his time between the mastery of the branches therein taught and the work of the home farm. Lessons of industry, economy and perseverance were early impressed upon his mind and have borne rich fruit in later years. About two years ago he came into possession of his present farm, which is a tract of land of eighty acres in Madison township, situated on the short road between the Salem and Free pike about three miles northeast of Trotwood. The farm lies on the west side of the road and is a well developed tract of land, Mr. Hyre having brought his fields under a high state of cultivation. He follows farming according to modern ideas, understanding the scientific as well as the practical side of the work, and upon his place is a nice home, together with commodious and substantial outbuildings that furnish ample shelter for grain and stock. His farm machinery, too, is modern and the work of the fields is greatly facilitated thereby. He produces the cereals best adapted to climatic conditions here and studies the nature of the soil that he may know what crops are best adapted thereto and when he may enrich the soil through the rotation of crops or the judicious use of fertilizers. On the 4th of October, 1896, Mr. Hyre was united in marriage to Miss Susie A. Eichelberger, a daughter of Alexander and Hannah (Beeghly) Eichelberger. The father came to Ohio from Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, and was one of the leading farmers in his section of the county. He was a man of forceful character and marked individuality and his salient qualities were such as everywhere command respect. To Mr. and Mrs. Hyre were born six children: Emma DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 517 A., Edith B. and Orville C., all attending school ; Sylvia H. ; Jesse W. ; and Russell A. The family residence is a nice dwelling situated in the midst of a well kept farm which shows painstaking care on the part of the owner. Mr. Hyre is very practical in all of his work, seeming to realize with great readiness the value of any opportunity and to use it to the best advantage. He belongs to the German Baptist church and is one of its deacons. In the support of the church he contributes liberally and his worth is widely acknowledged, for all who know him trust him and no trust reposed in him has ever been betrayed in the slightest degree. HARMAN H. ROGGE. The German-American element in our citizenship has long been an important one. For centuries the Teutonic race through emigration has carried the seeds of civilization into new districts and other lands have profited by the learning, culture and business experience of the sons of the fatherland. Mr. Rogge proudly claims Germany as the land of his nativity and yet there is no citizen of Dayton more loyal to the interests and the institutions of this free country of ours. His work has been a substantial factor in the improvement and development of Dayton, especially in the field of building operations and in industrial lines, and he is now prominently before the public as president of the Zwick & Greenwald Wheel Company. A native of Hanover, Germany, Mr. Rogge was born September 2, 1845, of the marriage of Harman and Angel (Mayrose) Rogge. The father, who followed the occupation of farming in support of himself and his family, is now deceased. The subject of this review was the second in a family of eight children and in his native land was afforded good educational privileges as a public-school student and also through the instruction of private tutors. He was eighteen years of age when he bade adieu to his friends in his native country preparatory to sailing for the new world in .company with an uncle who was a citizen of Dayton and believed that the business opportunities on this side of the Atlantic were superior to those of the old world. Harman Rogge was willing to take advantage of these chances for the betterment of his financial condition and when he arrived in Dayton he secured employment in the Blanchard & 'Brown Wheel Works, now owned and conducted by the S. N. Brown Company. He there remained for several years, winning promotion from time to time, after which he entered the service of the Barney & Smith Car Works. Fifteen years passed in the employ of others, after which he started in business on his own account, wishing that his labors might more directly benefit himself rather than that others should reap the profits of his industry and enterprise. From the beginning the new undertaking was successful and after continuing in the retail trade for a time he extended the scope of his activities by establishing a wholesale department which he also conducted for a few years. He has been connected with the Zwick & Greenwald Wheel Company since 1887, in which year he purchased stock in the enterprise, his labors 518 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY since that time constituting a force in the growth and expansion of the business. Its financial strength has increased several fold while the output has been greatly enlarged to meet the growing demands of the trade. For some years Mr. Rogge has been at the head as president and general manager and the wisdom of his judgment and his capable control are manifest in the growing success of the house. Aside from his operations in this connection he has been closely associated with building interests, having erected more than two score dwellings in Dayton and thus added to the substantial improvement of the city. The pleasant home life of Mr. Rogge had its foundation in his marriage in 1872 to Miss Augusta Kropp, a native of Dayton and a daughter of Henry Kropp. Eleven children were born unto them, of whom eight survive. Mr. Rogge and his family are members of the German Lutheran church and for a long period he has served as one of the church trustees and as a member of the official board. T0 its support he contributes generously and in its different activities he is much interested. His political views are in accord with the principles of the democracy and his official service is limited t0 0ne term as a member of the city council, for he has ever preferred to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs which, capably conducted, have brought him signal success. His record is an illustration of the fact that the circumstances of birth and education have little to do with molding a man's character or shaping his success. GEORGE KELLEY. George Kelley, a farmer of Harrison township, and the owner of twenty acres of excellent land on the Neff road, was born February 3, 1850, in Montgomery county, the son of Adam and Eliza (MacLean) Kelley. The father was the first of his family to leave his native land of Scotland. He came to Dayton, Ohio, where he was among the early settlers, for at the time of his advent there were but a very few houses where are now busy business blocks and streets bordered by comfortable homes. He was a distiller by trade and was accounted a good citizen, for he did his share in developing Dayton's resources and in promoting the change that has transpired from that day to this. From the schools of this county George Kelley gleaned all that they could give in the way of knowledge, which served as the educational foundation upon which his subsequent life has been built. From his youth on all his efforts have been turned to bringing forth from the soil what it would give forth, and tempting it to ever richer production each year. He has been loyal to that piece of land which gave him his first start in life, for during twenty-eight years he has lived on what is known as the Kennedy farm. It was to this place that he brought his bride, Miss Jennie S. Stutze, the daughter of Joseph and Eliza (Dies) Stutze. This marriage was blessed with six children : Frank, who married Miss Emma Beason and is the father of a son Howard ; Clara, now deceased, who was the wife of Morris Stout and the mother of four children, George, Francis, Everett and one who died in infancy ; Effie, the wife of John Neff and the mother of two children. Jennie and Dorothy ; Charles, who married Miss Blanche Pippinger DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 519 and has three children, Ora, Ruth and Richard ; Roy, who married Miss Goldie Dyer ; and Grafton, who lives at home. On the 4th of October, 1904, Mr. Kelley was united in marriage to Mrs. Mary Moeller, widow of Henry Moeller. In her maidenhood she was Miss Mary Nietert and is the daughter of Frederick and Sophia (Pansing) Nietert. Her father is a resident of Harrison township, where he was one of the early settlers, coming direct to this county from Germany, the land of his birth. His father, Henry Nietert, who in his youth had married Miss Mary Bornabal, followed his son Frederick to America and lived on the old Nietert farm until his death. By her first marriage Mrs. Kelley had seven children : Amanda, the wife of Oliver Dyer, and the mother of Dona, John H. and David R. ; Ida, the wife of William Eickhoff, and the mother of Vanerva, Mabel, Mazella Montey, Gilbert, Lavetta, Bernice, Lorena and Sylvia ; Leola, the wife of Walter Lindsley and the mother of one child, Evangeline ; Dora, the wife of Jacob Heinz and the mother of one daughter, Treva ; Ethel, the wife of Harry Schaffer, and the mother of Edward, Norma and Dorothy ; Lily, deceased ; Bess, who married Charles C. Brown and is the mother of a son, Melvin. Mr. Kelley, with his family, belongs to the United Brethren church, and his life bears evidence of his adherence to its teachings. He also is actively identified with all its work, both social and otherwise. He is a man capable of a great deal of hard labor, and this capacity for work, united with sound judgment and good management, has won for him a large measure of success in the field of life he has chosen. WILLIAM STROOP. William Stroop, who is conducting an extensive and prosperous business as a dealer in leaf tobacco in Dayton, is numbered among the native sons of this state who, by reason of its pulsing industrial activities, have been drawn from the small towns to the city. His birth occurred in Springboro, 'Warren county, Ohio, May 17, 1861, and the period of his youth was passed upon the home farm, where he early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot ̊If the agriculturist, assisting in the work of the fields from the time of early spring planting until crops were harvested in the late autumn. During that period he also attended the country schools to the age of eighteen years, after which he left the old home and spent several years at Trebein Station in Greene county, Ohio, where he was engaged in distilling as general utility man for F. C. Trebein. On leaving that service Mr. Stroop removed to Miamisburg, Montgomery county, Ohio, Where he became engaged in the leaf tobacco business in partnership with John Weiser. This was in 1884 and the partnership continued until the death of Mr. Weiser in 1891. In that year Mr. Stroop removed to Dayton and continued the business already established in this city. He now handles a large amount of leaf tobacco each year, finding a ready sale for his product, and the business methods of the house have ever been of a most reliable character, winning for it an unsullied reputation. 520 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY In 1888 in Miamisburg, Mr. Stroop was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Gwinner, the youngest daughter of Frederick and Hannah Gwinner. Their union has been blessed with one son, F. G., now fourteen years of age and living with his parents on their fine farm, Grand View Hills, about five miles south of Dayton. This is a most attractive place, equipped with all of the comforts and conveniences of a model country home, its proximity to the city making the advantages of urban life easily attainable, while those of a rural existence are also enjoyed. Mr. Stroop is a member of the First Lutheran church. JOHN B. McNABB. John B. McNabb, one of the leading grocers of West Carrollton, Ohio, was born in Bureau county, Illinois, on the 27th day of May, 1872, and is the son of William M. and Hester (Motz) McNabb. His grandfather, Milton McNabb, whose wife was Miss Amanda Didie in her maidenhood, was of Scottish descent and his father, William McNabb, was the first of the family to settle in this country. William M. McNabb, father of our subject, was born in Greene county, Ohio, and when he was twenty-six years of age removed to Illinois, where he engaged in farming, which pursuit he f0llowed for a number of years. He then engaged in coal mining, in which he was very successful, and later he took up threshing, in which business he was actively engaged at the time of his death, which occurred January 14, 1884. He was buried in Illinois. Our subject's mother, Mrs. Hester Rouse, is now living in West Carrollton and is enjoying good health. John B. is the second in order of birth in a family of four children, the others being : Harry J., a resident of West Carrollton ; William E., of Hamilton, Ohio ; and Charles T., of Miamisburg. John B. McNabb was but twelve years of age when his father died. He received his early education in the public schools near his birth place, but he had more than school work to employ his time and mind, for after lessons were over f0r the day he was employed on odd jobs; and in the vacation periods he worked at whatever came his way. A capacity for hard work has ever been one of his characteristics and is the one thing which has made possible his success in the several occupations in which he has engaged. After completing his school course he went to work in a general store in his home town, remaining there for about two years, when he came to Ohio, at first on a visit, and later, in September, 1891, to stay. Upon locating here he went to work in the paper mills, where he continued for three years, and from this time dates his successful business career, for he worked diligently at the tasks assigned him, regarding his position merely as the first step on the ladder of advancement. So in fact it proved to be. He was promoted to clerk in the company's store and later was advanced to bookkeeper and cashier. This was but just recognition of his services, however, for he was ever diligent in promoting the interests of his employers. Besides being a hard worker, he was also a good manager and in the years that he was serving others saved enough to enable him to purchase some real estate in West Carrollton. This gave him his first financial start in life, when he sold it at a hand- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 523 some increase. Again he bought real estate and in less than a month he had made a profit of one hundred per cent. He then had the neat little sum of five hundred dollars with which to start in business for himself. During the summer of 1899 he worked for a wholesale house in Dayton, and on the 16th of October, that year, he opened his present store. There was no partner to share the responsibility and none was needed to put the business on a paying basis and bring success to the venture. On the 19th of June, 1895, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. McNabb and Miss Lucy M. Butler, a daughter of Robert and Ida (Barber) Butler. Her father was a papermaker but is now living a life of retirement in West Carrollton. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. McNabb : Zola M., Olive V., John B., Jr., and Robert Milton. The two eldest are in school. Mr. McNabb is a Mason and is also a member of the board of education which he served for some years as clerk. He is a man of considerable public spirit, which has been appreciated by the citizens of West Carrollton, who chose him for their clerk, a position which he has filled to their entire satisfaction for the space of three years. By both his life and the success he has achieved Mr. McNabb is an example to many another starting in the business world. He has known the full value of hard work and has made the most of any opportunity that presented itself. EDWIN CRAWFORD BAIRD. Edwin Crawford Baird, civil engineer and contractor of Dayton, his native city, was born on the 28th 0f May, 1856, and represents an old Pennsylvania family. His grandfather, Daniel Baird, was a native of Somerset, Pennsylvania, and the birth of his father, Josiah Baird, there occurred in 1831. The latter spent his boyhood and youth in the place of his nativity and on attaining his majority came to Dayton, in 1852. In this city he was married in 1854 to Miss Catharine Crawford, a daughter of Archibald Crawford, and they became the parents of a son and daughter, the latter being Anna Belle, who is with her mother, a resident of this city. The father was for many years a well known merchant here, conducting a growing and profitable business until 1894, when he retired to private life. He died July 14, 1909. Under the parental roof Edwin C. Baird spent his youthful days, the public schools affording him his educational privileges until he had mastered the branches constituting their curriculum. Following his graduation from the Central high school in 1874, he went east to school, attending Union College, Schenectady, New York. There he made a special study of civil engineering and on putting aside his text-books entered upon the active practice of his profession in connection with the construction of railroads in the middle west. Some time later he located in Dayton and was elected city engineer here in 1875 and continued to act in that capacity, or as assistant engineer, until 1901, when he was elected county engineer of Montgomery county, filling the office for six years. In May, 1908, he was appointed assistant state engineer in charge of the improvements of the Miami & Erie canal. 524 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY In 1885 Mr. Baird was married, in Tecumseh, Michigan, to Miss Mary L. Wood, and although they have no children of their own they are rearing an adopted son, Robert Edwin Baird. Mr. Baird belongs to the Bicycle Club and to several fraternal organizations, including all the Masonic bodies, Heptasophs, the Modern Woodmen of America, and the Knights of Pythias. He belongs to the First Lutheran church, and in politics is a republican. He has been called to several offices in the line of his profession, the duties of which he has discharged with promptness and fidelity, commending him to the confidence and winning for him the approval of all who have been witnesses of his official career. JOSEPH M. RATLIFF, M. D. Dr. Joseph M. Ratliff, proprietor of one of the best equipped sanitariums of Dayton, in which connection he is doing excellent work as a progressive representative of the medical fraternity, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1848. His youthful days were unmarked by any event of particular importance, being largely devoted to the attainment of a public-school education and the enjoyment of such pleasures as the youths of the period found attractive. Determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he pursued a course in the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery until he was graduated in 1878, after which he located for general practice in his native city, there remaining for six months. At the end of that time he went to Long View Asylum as its physician and continued there for fourteen years, his experience and practice bringing him comprehensive knowledge of mental and nervous diseases. In 1894 he came to Dayton and for nearly eight years was superintendent of the state hospital f0r the insane. His work here was of a most valuable character and when he resigned from that position he established the sanitarium which he has owned and conducted since 1902. It is most thoroughly equipped along the lines of modern science and his ability is enabling him to do excellent work for his patients in the restoration of health. About the sanitarium buildings and grounds there is nothing to suggest the idea of an institution or insane asylum, so objectionable to persons suffering with nervous and mental diseases, but the entire place has a home like appearance. The main buildings and grounds for many years formed the home of William P. Huffman on Huffman Hill. The grounds include about ten acres of beautiful lawn and wood land, formed of magnificent old forest trees, in the center of which is the main building. This is an elegantly constructed residence of twenty rooms, which with a few changes and alterations has become well adapted for sanitarium purposes. The bed rooms are large, bright and airy, and the numerous parlors and rest rooms are cheerful and attractive. In the furnishing of the rooms the home idea has been carried out. While there is every advantage and convenience of a hospital, there is the comfort, and cheer, and quiet of a home, so necessary to persons with diseased nerves and brains. Throughout the building are numerous bath and toilet rooms. The house is heated with steam. The