DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 575 Cromwell, Virginia Cromwell and Rosemary. Mr. Schachne belongs to Blue Lodge of Masons and to the Dayton View Club. His advancement to his present enviable position has followed as a logical sequence of his well directed efforts and the development of the artistic taste and talent with which nature endowed him. EDWIN BEST. The jewelry house of H. Best & Son has long been a leading feature in the mercantile life of Dayton and the name has ever stood as a synonym for progressiveness and reliability in the conduct of commercial interests. He whose name introduces this review was born in Dayton in 1839. The family is of English lineage and was founded in America by Thomas Best, a native of England, who was born in the eighteenth century. Coming to the new world he located in Cincinnati. He was accompanied on his voyage to the United States by his brother Robert, and a year later a third brother, Samuel Best, also came. The three brothers then became partners in the jewelry business in Cincinnati but in subsequent years Thomas Best removed from that city to Lebanon, Ohio, where he established a jewelry store. This was probably about 1810 or 1811 and while there living he made drums, buttons, etc., for the soldiers of the war of 1812. He died in Paducah, Kentucky, May 24, 1844. His wife who bore the maiden name of Sarah Margaret Greenham, was a native of. England and they had five daughters and three sons. Henry Best, the father of Edwin Best, was born in Cincinnati in 1804. The city, now of metropolitan proportions, was then a little village and only a year or two before Ohio had been admitted to the Union. Dayton, too, was of little commercial or industrial importance when he located here in 1828. He established the jewelry business, which he conducted up to the time of his death in 1873 and which has had a continuous existence to the present time, covering a period of more than eighty years. Henry Best was married in Dayton to Miss Ann S. Drill and they became the parents of eight children, five of whom reached years of maturity : Newton, of Union City, Indiana ; Edwin, of this review ; Emma, the wife of D. 0. Stout, of Dayton, Ohio ; William H., whose demise occurred in December, 1907 ; and Carrie, the wife of a Mr. Richardson. The death of the husband and father occurred in 1873 and was not only the occasion of deep regret to his immediate family but also brought a sense of distinct loss to the city where he had been so long known as a prominent and enterprising merchant. Edwin Best spent his youthful days in his parents' home, his time being largely given to the acquirement of an education in the public schools. He lacked but six months pf completing the course of study in the Central high school when he put aside his text-books and entered his father's store, since which time he has been closely associated with the jewelry trade of the city. He learned the business under his father's direction and in 1860 was admitted to a partnership in the enterprise, at which time the present firm style of H. Best & Son was 576 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY assumed. At the time of his admission to the firm the father practically retired, although he was nominally interested in the enterprise until his demise. The jewelry establishment of H. Best & Son is today one of the largest and finest in Dayton, an extensive line of goods being carried, including fine importations of diamonds and jewelry of foreign make. The store is splendidly appointed in all of its fixtures and cases and the attractive display of goods constitutes a feature in its sales. The house, too, has ever maintained an unsullied reputation for commercial integrity and reliability and has largely set the standard for activity in jewelry lines in Dayton. Edwin Best was married in this city, in September,. 1861, to Miss Mary C. Collins, a daughter of Gilbert and Caroline ( Jacobs) Collins. Their marriage was blessed with three daughters, as follows : Ida B., the wife of Charles Chatelin Bosler ; Etta M., the wife of Walter W. Bishop ; and Florence, the wife of Edward C. Philipps. In his political views Mr. Best has long been a stalwart republican, giving to the party his first presidential vote. He has been unfaltering in his advocacy of its principles and belongs to Garfield Club. He also affiliates with the Presbyterian church and is the president of the Montgomery County Fish and Game Protective Club. While he has reached the age of three score years and ten, he is still an alert, energetic and enterprising business man, whose p0wers in the management of important mercantile affairs have increased rather than diminished as the result of his broad and varied experience and close study of the line of trade to which he has directed his energies. To omit the history of the Best family from the mercantile records would be to leave out one of its most important chapters, for through eighty years the name has figured in connection with the trade interests of the city and in Dayton no man is more honored and respected in mercantile and financial circles than Edwin Best, not alone by reason of the success he has achieved but also owing to the straightforward and commendable business policy that he has ever followed. DAVID C. LICHLITER, M. D. On the list of medical practitioners in Dayton appears the name of Dr. David C. Lichliter, who for thirty years has been in active practice here. During this time his mistakes have been few and his successes many. He was not only thoroughly grounded in the principles of medical science when he left college but has remained a close student of the profession, continually augmenting his knowledge by reading, experiment and investigation. Dr. Lichliter is a native of Woodstock, Shenandoah county, Virginia, his birth having there occurred in September, 1852. His youthful days were passed in the place of his nativity and he there obtained his primary education. In 1872 at the age of twenty years, he left home. to enter Franklin and Marshall College at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he pursued a four years' course and was graduated with the Bachelor of Arts degree in 1876. Ten years afterward his alma mater conferred upon him the Master of Arts degree. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 579 When he had completed his literary course Dr. Lichliter returned to his old home in Virginia but the following year matriculated in Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia and was graduated in 1879, securing the honorary prize offered by Professor E. Wallace. Immediately thereafter he established himself in practice in Dayton and has gradually advanced to a foremost place in the rank of the medical fraternity here. In addition to his private practice he was at one time connected with St. Elizabeth Hospital. He holds membership in the American Medical Association, the Ohio State Medical Association and the Montgomery County Medical Society and in the last named has held all of the different offices save that of censor. In all that he does he is imbued with a progressive spirit and this has kept him informed concerning the latest ideas, theories and discoveries of the medical profession. He was medical examiner for the National Life Insurance Company of Montpelier, Vermont, for twenty-three years, and also medical examiner for the Royal Arcanum and National Union. In 1886, in Dayton, Dr. Lichliter was united in marriage to Miss Ella M. Burrowes, who died in 1892. In his political views the Doctor is a republican, though somewhat independent in voting for he does not feel that he must be bound by any political machine but will control his own franchise, supporting candidates whose qualifications, in his opinion, best equip them for office. The Doctor belongs to the Reformed church and the strong and salient characteristics of his life are such as have gained for him the unqualified esteem and good will of his fellowmen and of his brethren of the profession. JOHN M. WAGNER. John M. Wagner, who for the past seven years has lived retired in Trotwood, was for many years numbered among the most prominent and successful farmers and stock-raisers of Montgomery county. His birth occurred in Carroll county, Maryland, September 12, 1830, his parents being George and Catharine (Milliard) Wagner. The father came to Ohio subsequent to the arrival of his son, John M., in this county and purchased a good farm near Union, on which he resided for about ten years, when he passed away, being survived by his wife about twelve years. Their remains were interred in the Happy Corner cemetery. The year 1854 witnessed the arrival of John M. Wagner in Montgomery county, Ohio, and he at once became identified with agricultural interests here as a farm laborer. Subsequently he came into possession of the old John K. Olinger farm and was continuously engaged in its cultivation and improvement until the time of his retirement from active business life, when he divided his property among his children. In addition to cultivating the vari0us cereals best adapted to soil and climate he also engaged in stock-raising on quite an extensive scale and for a long period was classed with the best known and most prosperous agriculturists and stockmen of the county. When, by reason of his capable management and well directed industry, he had at length accumulated a handsome competence he put aside the active work of the fields and for the 580 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY past seven years has lived retired in Trotw0od, enj0ying the fruits of his former toil in well earned ease. Mr. Wagner has been married twice. On the 24th of December, 1854, he wedded Miss Susanna Olinger, a daughter of John K. and Nancy (Kuns) Olinger, her father being one of the most prominent farmers in the county. By this union there were four children. Charles E., who follows farming in Montgomery county, wedded Miss Mary Barnes, by whom he has the following children: Corbin E., who married Miss Cora Weimer ; and Maud, the wife of Frederick Stock. Sarah Ann is the deceased wife of Daniel C. Flory. Nancy C., who has also passed away, became the mother of four children, the rec0rd of whom is as follows : Wilson, now deceased, married Miss Lizzie Miller and had tw0 children, Harvey and Bessie, who are great-grandchildren 0f John M. Wagner. Cora is the wife of Leroy Denlinger and has three children: Arden, Louis and Eunice, also great-grandchildren of our subject. Arthur married Miss Hazel Revolt, by whom he has one son, George. John is the youngest child of Daniel C. and Sarah Ann (Wagner) Flory. Clara, the youngest child of John M. and Susanna (Olinger) Wagner, became the wife of Henry Sollenberger, by whom she has three children : Corwin, Roy and John. For his second wife John M. Wagner chose Miss Edith Warner, a daughter of David and Sarah (Snyder) Warner. Her father made his way from Pennsylvania to Montg0mery county, Ohio, and became well known here as a successful agriculturist. Mr. Wagner is a prominent and valued member of the Brethren church. Having resided in this county for more than a half century, he is well known within its borders and is now enj0ying in honorable retirement the accumulations of a profitable, successful and upright life. GEORGE PENDLETON DALE, M. D. Dr. George Pendleton Dale, whose well developed ability in the line of his chosen profession has given him a prominent place in the ranks of the medical fraternity in Dayton, Was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, September I, 1873. His youthful days were largely passed in the acquirement of an education in the public schools until he had completed the course in the Woodward high school by graduation with the class of 1892. Immediately afterward he entered business circles by securing a situation in Cincinnati, where he remained for four years, but a professional career seemed more attractive to him and believing that the practice of medicine would be a congenial calling he took up a course of study in that line and in 1900 was graduated from the Miami Medical College. Later he entered the Cincinnati Hospital, where he spent tw0 years acquiring broad and comprehensive knowledge through the varied experiences and demands of hospital practice. Thus well equipped for the onerous duties of the profession he came to Dayton in January, 1902, and has since become well known as a representative of the medical fraternity here. He stands high with his brethren of the pr0fession and the mere fact that he is on the staff of the Miami Valley Hospital is prima facie evidence of his ability and character. He belongs DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 581 also to the Montgomery County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Association and the American Medical Association. On the 6th of August, 1902, in Dayton, Dr. Dale was married to Miss Edith Barnes, a daughter of Rhodolphus Barnes. He belongs to the Grace Methodist Episcopal church and is a man whose high personal character, as well as his professional knowledge and skill, have gained for him an enviable position in his adopted city. WILLIAM A. HOSKIN. William A. Hoskin, junior partner of the insurance firm of Bell & Hoskin, of Dayton, Ohio, was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1873. During his infancy his parents crossed the border into the United States with their family, locating in Ionia county, Michigan, where William A. Hoskin pursued his education as a public-school student, passing through consecutive grades until he was graduated from the high school with the class of 1890. Mr. Hoskin has been a resident of Dayton since 1892 and the year following his arrival turned his attention to the insurance business in connection with J. N. Bell, the firm of Bell & Hoskin being then formed. That it still exists is incontrovertible proof of the success which has attended their efforts. The years have witnessed their activity in insurance lines in which they have won a constantly increasing clientage as representatives of some of the old line companies. Their business has long since assumed extensive and profitable proportions and they are well known as prominent insurance men 0f the city. In 1899 in Dayton Mr. Hoskin was united in marriage to Miss Estella M. Meeks. Their home is attractive by reason of its warm-hearted hospitality and is regarded as a most delightful resort by their many friends. Mr. Hoskins belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and to the Third Street Presbyterian church, while in politics he is an ardent republican, believing it to be the duty as well as the privilege of every true American citizen to stanchly uphold the principles which, in his opinion, constitute the basis of substantial and progressive government. His friends, and they are many, find him congenial and wherever he is known he enjoys the respect of those with whom he is associated. MOSES ULLERY. Moses Ullery, a retired agriculturist residing in Trotwood, is now the oldest man in Madison township, having attained the venerable age of eighty-three years. His birth occurred in this township, October 16, 1825, on the Ullery homestead on the Wolf Creek pike, his parents being Samuel and Susan (Whitehead) Ullery. In the year 1811 Samuel Ullery drove across the country from Pennsylvania to Montgomery county, Ohio, here clearing a tract of land. As time passed he added to his holdings by additional purchase and eventually be- 582 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY came the owner of about thirteen hundred acres of valuable land, being widely recognized as one of the most prosperous and influential citizens of the county. His family numbered ten children, namely : Lydia, deceased ; Moses, of this review ; Anna and Aaron, who have also passed away ; Stephen ; Mary, who is also deceased ; David ; Samuel ; Christopher ; and Valentine. Moses Ullery obtained his education in the district schools and has always continued a resident of his native township. Throughout his active business career he was identified with agricultural interests, owning a rich and productive farm of one hundred and eighty acres, which he sold and divided a part of the proceeds among his children, having put aside the work of the fields in order to enjoy his remaining days in well merited rest. In 1848 Mr. Ullery was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ehrstine, by whom he had nine children, as follows : Amanda ; Jane, deceased ; Marion ; Warren ; Martha ; Laura ; William A. ; Charles E. ; and Emma, who has also passed away. For his second wife Mr. Ullery chose Mrs. Nancy Beeghley, a daughter of Abraham Landis, of this county. Mr. Ullery is a valued member of the Dunkard church. He has so long witnessed the growth and development of this county that he has intimate knowledge of its history and relates many interesting incidents of pioneer times. He has long since rounded the Psalmist's span of three score years and ten but though the snows of many winters have whitened his hair he has the vigor of a much younger man and in spirits and interests seems not to have passed his prime. Old age is not necessarily a synonym for weakness or inactivity. It need not suggest, as a matter of course, want of occupation or helplessness. There is an old age that is a benediction to all that comes in contact with it, that gives out its rich stores of learning and experience and grows stronger intellectually and spiritually as the years pass.. Such is the life of Mr. Ullery—an encouragement to his associates and an example well worthy of emulation to the young. CHARLES SYLVESTER BILLMAN. Charles Sylvester Billman, cashier of the Farmers & Merchants National Bank of Dayton, was born on a farm in Montgomery county, Ohio, in July, 1861. His grandfather was Jacob Billman, one of the pioneer residents 0f the middle west. His father was Abraham Billman, whose birth occurred near Connellsville, Indiana, in 1824. He left there at the age of nine years in company with his parents, who located on a farm near West Carrollton in Montgomery county, Ohio, in 1833. His remaining days were devoted to general agricultural pursuits and he lived a life of great usefulness and activity, his death occurring in West Carrollton, Ohio, in 1908. He was married in this county to Miss Sarah A. Loree, and unto them were born seven children, of whom five reached adult age : Amanda, now the widow of Isaac Young, of Eaton, Ohio ; Nettie B., the wife of John M. Murray, of Dayton ; Francis Marion, who died in 1903 ; Charles S. ; and Nora L., the wife of Joseph S. Parker, of West Carrollton, Ohio. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 583 Charles S. Billman spent the days of his boyhood and youth on the old home farm, where he remained to the age of nineteen years, his youth being devoted to the work of the fields, to the pleasures of the playground and to the acquirement of an education. After attending the country schools he continued his studies in the normal school at Ada, Ohio, and after leaving that institution, in 1883, took up the profession of teaching in Montgomery county. For three years he was thus connected with the country schools, on the expiration of which period he accepted a position as teacher in the Miami Commercial C0llege, where he remained for nearly twelve years, proving a capable educator whose instructions were clear, concise and forceful. Leaving that school in 1896 he was.then associated with 'the Weston Paper Company for a time, and in August, 1901, he became secretary of the West Side Building & Loan Company and was made cashier of the Farmers & Merchants Bank organized in 1906, in which capacity he has since served, making for himself a creditable name in financial circles. In December, 1885, Mr. Billman was married to Miss Lillie May Myers, and they have three children : Bess M., Nellie May and Charles M. Mr. Billman belongs to the Garfield Club and is a favorite in that organization because of his appreciation of the social amenities of life and his unfailing courtesy and congeniality. He is much interested in republican politics, believing that the principles of the party are most conducive to good government, and he labors for , the success of its candidates, although he does not seek office for himself. Since starting out in life on his own account he has made steady progress, the simple weight of his own character carrying him into important relations in the financial circles of the city. ADOLPH HEINZ. The student carrying hr's investigations into the history of commercial and industrial development in northern Ohio find that the rapid growth and progress of the county along those lines is attributable in large measure to the establishment and conduct of the great iron furnaces and kindred interests. With the development of the rich iron fields of the Lake Superior regions their product was brought over the waters of the Great Lakes to different points of northern Ohio adjacent to the rich coal fields that have furnished the heat necessary for the conversion of the crude material into the finished and marketable product. Adolph Heinz is numbered among those who are prominently associated with the iron trade in Dayton, being now treasurer of the Dayton Malleable Iron Company. He was born in this city, April 24, 1863, and was here reared and acquired his education, passing through consecutive grades in the public schools, while in 1882 he was graduated from the Miami Commercial College. He next entered the employ of the Malleable Iron Company as bookkeeper and acted in that capacity until 1891 when he was made treasurer. In this position he is giving his attention to the financial concerns of the great enterprise with which he is associated and in a position of executive ability and administrative control is proving his right to be classed with the prominent representatives of industrial life in his native city. 584 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Mr. Heinz was married in Dayton in 1887 to Miss Dora Kuntz and they are well known in social circles. He belongs to the Knights 0f Pythias fraternity and gives his political support to the republican party where state and national issues are involved but at local elections where the only question for consideration is capability and reliability 0f the candidate he casts an independent ballot. His entire life has been passed in Dayton and he is preeminently here a man of affairs and one who has wielded a wide influence. HENRY ESHBAUGH. Henry Eshbaugh, filling the position of county sheriff, to which he was elected in November, 1898, has always been a resident of this part of the state. His birth occurred on a farm in Jefferson township, Montgomery county, on the 9th of July, 1873, and his life record is another proof of the fact that the country-bred lad is usually a strong factor in city life when he chooses to ally his forces with urban interests. He was reared on the home farm and was educated in the district schools, which he had attended to the age of sixteen years. He has since been connected with general agricultural pursuits, giving his time to the cultivation of the crops best adapted to soil and climate until elected to his present office. Mr. Eshbaugh is a stanch supporter of the democratic party, interested in the political problems of the day and always well informed concerning the dominant issues between the parties. He served for five years as a trustee of Jefferson township and was then again called to public office in his election to the shrievalty in November, 1908. On the 25th of September, 1901, Mr. Eshbaugh was married in Montgomery county to Miss Sarah Olt, and they have four daughters and one son : Christina, Catharine, Marie, Alice Elizabeth and Henry Leo. Mr. Eshbaugh was reared with the Baptists although he is not a member of any denomination. He belongs to the Junior Order of American Mechanics, the Knights of Pythias, the Eagles, and the Modern Woodmen, and although he has not figured actively in fraternal or club circles he is well known in the county as a substantial citizen who in his present office is standing as a safe conservator of the interests of law and order. ISIDOR A. SEYBOLD. Among those who figure prominently along educational lines in Montgomery county is Isidor A. Seybold, now acting as principal of school district No. 1, Madison township. Moreover, he is well known in the community as a prosperous and successful agriculturist and stock raiser. He was born in 1874 on the old Seybold homestead in this county and comes from German ancestry. The founder of the family in America was John Seybold, the grandfather of our subject, who came from Germany and settled first in Franklin, Ohio. Later he removed DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 587 to this county where he spent his remaining days. He was an extensive traveler and during his lifetime acquired a very wide acquaintance. His son, David Seybold, was born on his father's homestead farm and was a veterinary surgeon by profession, while he devoted much time also to farming. He continued to make his home in Madison township throughout his life and became recognized as one of the best known representatives of this community. He married Rebecca Wolf and died in the year 1880. In their family were nine children, namely : Martha, Ella, Sarah, Mary, Amanda, Jacob F., Thomas, John and Isidor. The last named was reared under the parental roof and attended the common schools in the acquirement of an education, while the summer months were devoted to the work of the farm, the duties of which became familiar to him at an early age. After completing his preliminary course he entered the Trotwood high school, from which he was graduated with honors with the class of 1897. He then pursued a preparatory course of study at the Normal School at Yellow Springs, Ohio, and having completed his senior year there he took up the profession of teaching as his chosen life work. Conscientious performance of the duties of the schoolroom, combined with earnest labor and indefatigable energy, has brought its just reward and he today is filling the responsible position of principal of the school district No. 1, Madison township. He has never ceased, however, to be a student, but on the contrary, by extensive reading, research and investigation at home, has broadened his knowledge and extended his powers. He is a capable instructor, readily imparting to others the knowledge he has himself acquired, and his labors along educational lines are doing much to uphold the standard 0f the public-school system. He is also the owner of a very fine farm of one hundred acres 0f land lying between Creek and Liberty pikes about a mile and a half northwest of the town of Trotwood. This property is a part of what was originally known as the McMullin & Philip Glass place. It is under a high state of cultivation and in addition to cultivating the grains and cereals common to this vicinity he has also an excellent fruit orchard upon his farm. He carries on his agricultural pursuits when not actively engaged in teaching and also devotes some time to stock-raising, making a specialty of horses and cattle, having on hand at the present time, twenty head. His stock is of a high order and therefore commands good prices on the market, while this branch of his agricultural interests is proving most important and profitable. On January 31, 1900, Mr. Seybold was united in marriage to Miss Florence Kuns, a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (McMullin) Kuns, and unto them have been born two children, Oden and Howard, the former a student in school. The family home is situated just off Liberty pike about one-sixteenth of a mile and is a fine eight-room house with all modern c0nveniences. In his political allegiance Mr. Seybold is a republican and for three years he served as clerk of the township. He is a member of the Christian church and has been ordained by that denomination. He is the treasurer of the church and one of its deacons, while he is also a teacher in the Sabbath school, taking an active interest in all phases of the church work. He is a public-spirited citizen, being interested in all matters that pertain to the material, intellectual, political and moral upbuilding of the community. Although classed among the younger 588 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY generation who are gaining for themselves a place in the front ranks in this section 0f the township, the success which he has already attained is but an evidence of what the future has in store for one whose salient characteristics are unfaltering diligence and unwearied perseverance. His business methods have at all times been such as to command the respect and confidence of all with whom he has come in contact, while his admiral personal qualities have won him a large circle of warm friends who entertain for him the highest regard and esteem. GEORGE WAMBAUGH HEATHMAN. Among Dayton's residents whose activity in business in former years now permits of well earned rest in the enjoyment of the fruits of former toil, is numbered George Wambaugh Heathman. His connection with commercial interests in this city was of a most creditable character and his labors were at all times of a nature that contributed to the civic prosperity and growth as well as to his individual success. Dayton is proud to number him among her native sons. His birth occurred here January 13, 1850, his parents being Elias and Mary Sophia (Wambaugh) Heathman. His paternal grandfather was George Heathman and the family is of Scotch extraction. Elias Heathman was born on a farm in Hancock county, Ohio, in 1823, and in 1845 came to Dayton, where his remaining days were passed, covering a period of four decades. He died in this city in 1885 and is survived by his widow and their eight children, four sons and four daughters. George W. Heathman became a public-school student at the usual age and continued his studies until he reached the age of fifteen years when he began providing for his own support as an employe of the firm of Van Ausdal & Harman, with whom he continued from the fall of 1866 until November, 1869. He represented the house as a clerk, but when he left their employ he turned his attention to the baking business and was so engaged until the spring of 1872 in company with his brother-in-law, C. W. Nickum, under the firm style of Nickum & Heathman. In that year the business was reorganized and Mr. Heathman became senior partner of the firm of G. W. Heathman & Company, so continuing until 1885, when his father, who was the silent partner, passed away. Mr. Heathman then carried on the business alone until 1889, when he sold out to the United States Baking Company, now the National Biscuit Company, but was retained as manager until the spring of 1905, when he retired. From the time when he entered into active connection with the baking business his advance was steady and continuous. He manifested marked discernment and discrimination in managing his business affairs, gave to the public an output that was entirely satisfactory and therefore secured a liberal patronage, so that when he retired from active life he was in possession of a comfortable competence that was the gratifying reward of his years of earnest and persistent labor. In 1872 in Dayton, Mr. Heathman was united in marriage to Miss Ida M. Anderson, a daughter of B. F: Anderson, now deceased. Unto this union four DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 589 children were born, namely : Edward M. ; Frank D. ; Effie S., the wife of H. E. Allen of Dayton ; and Luella, at home. In his fraternal relations Mr. Heathman is well known as a prominent Mason, having taken the thirty-second degree and the Knights Templar degree in the Commandery. He gives his political allegiance to the republican party and for two terms he served as tax commissioner at Dayton, but has never been active as a political leader, although interested in the success and growth of the party and the adoption of its principles. He belongs to the First Reformed church and his salient qualities are such as have commanded for him the respect, confidence and good will of his fellowmen throughout his entire life. Moreover, his business record may well serve as a source of emulation and encouragement, being a creditable demonstration of what can be accomplished when persistency of purpose and indefatigable energy are guided by common sense and intelligent perception. JOHN FREDERICK BAKER. John Frederick Baker has been connected with the hardware trade throughout his entire life, embarking in this line as a young tradesman at the outset of his business career. His close application through all of the passing years has developed his latent powers and capacities and his keen sagacity and sound judgment bring a ready solution to complex commerical problems. Born in Dayton on the 10th of October, 1851, his youthful days were spent in the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John G. Baker. The father was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1808 and came to America in 1848, locating first in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was married to Miss Dor0thea S. Schreiver. In 1850 they removed to Dayton and Mr. Baker opened a retail grocery store on East Fifth street near the canal, the first store of the kind to be established on that thoroughfare. For about eleven years he successfully conducted the business and then sold out that he might give his undivided attention to his investments, for from time to time he had purchased property and was the owner of considerable real estate. His death 0ccurred, however, in 1862. He was long survived by his widow, who died in 1890 at the advanced age of eighty-two years. A daughter and three sons survived her death : Mary A., now the wife of Charles Sholz, of St. Louis, Missouri ; the Rev. William J. Baker, of Amelia, Ohio ; John F. Baker, of this review ; and Charles .A. Baker, who makes his home in St. Louis. At five years of age John F. Baker entered the public schools, wherein he continued his studies until he had completed the first year's work in the high school. Then, when in his fourteenth year, he entered the hardware business, becoming an employe of A. C. Marshall in the same room which he now occupies. He started in a humble capacity but gradually worked his way upward by successive promoti0ns until in 1874 he was admitted to a partnership under the firm style of Marshall & Baker. This relation was maintained until May, 1884, when Mr. Baker purchased his partner's interests and has since conducted the business under his own name. Thus for forty-four years he has been a factor in the 590 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY hardware trade of the city, business being carried on at the same location all of that time, and his establishment has largely set the standard for activity in this line. The business has been conducted in accordance with the most modern commercial ideas and with such strict regard for commercial integrity that the house sustains an unsullied reputation in all of its trade relations. Mr. Baker is also a stockholder and one of the directors in the Merchants National Bank and is regarded as one of the safe and sound business men of his native city. In 1882 in Dayton occurred the marriage of Mr. Baker and Miss Ella B. Marshall, a daughter of Samuel Marshall, a prominent citizen of Dayton, whose death occurred in 1875. There were two children of that marriage : Frederick Marshall and Dorothea Margaret. Mr. Baker has ever been devoted to the welfare of his family, considering no effort or sacrifice on his part too great if it would enhance the happiness of the members of his household. His political support is given to the democracy but he does not seek nor desire office. He has never relegated his religious duties to a secondary place in his life but on the contrary has for many years been a faithful and devoted member of the Third Street Presbyterian church and gives generous cooperation to many good works done in the name of charity and religion. He is one of the directors Of the Young Men's Christian Association and also of the Associated Charities. In his life business ability, humanitarianism and public-spirited citizenship are well balanced factors. ELMER E. NISWONGER. Elmer E. Niswonger is president of the Excelsior Laundry Company and identified with other important and remunerative business concerns of Dayton. He was born in West Sonora, Preble county, Ohio, in 1861 and his youthful days to the age of nineteen years were there passed. He completed his education by a course in an academy at Euphemia, Ohio, being graduated with the class of 1879 and in 1881 he came to Dayton as stenographer for the John Dodd Manufacturing Company. For ten years he remained with that house, winning promotion from time to time but severed his connection to accept the position of corresponding clerk with the National Cash Register Company. His capability and ready adaptability there won him advancement until he became secretary of the company and a member of the board of directors. In 1901, however, he withdrew from that organization to enter business fields which he believed would prove still more remunerative, being elected to the presidency of the Excelsior Laundry Company. He is also president of the Star Laundry Company of Columbus and president of the National Laundry Machinery Company of Dayton. In the position of administrative direction he displays excellent executive force in the management and in the control of financial affairs. His constantly expanding business powers, his unwearied industry and his close application have enabled him from the outset of his career to rise steadily, step by step, t0 his present place of prominence and success. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 591 In 1888 in Darke county, Ohio, Mr. Niswonger was married to Miss Gertrude Burtch. He belongs to the Masonic lodge, holds membership with the Garfield Club and is also a director of the Chamber of Commerce, these different associations making him widely known in Dayton. He is also an active republican, believing the party platform adequate to meet the needs of the country in shaping legislation that has to do with the financial and trade interests of the country and its foreign policy. He is an effective worker in the local ranks of the party and, as in other relations of life, commands the confidence and esteem of his political associates. C. PRESTON FLOYD. C. Preston Floyd, whose name appears on the roster of the city of Dayton as city clerk and clerk of the council, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 26, 1872, and came to Dayton in 1880. Here he acquired his education in the public schools and entered business life as.a c0mmercial traveler, remaining on the road for ten years. At the expiration of that period he became a factor in official service in Dayton, entering the county recorder's office as deputy in 1900 and serving until 1903 when he was elected to his present position by the city council. Systematic, accurate, methodical, prompt and faithful, the qualities which he displays in his official service have won him high commendation. In 1902 Mr. Floyd was united in marriage in Dayton to Miss Alice Beachem and they have an attractive home whose hospitality is enjoyed by a large circle of friends. Mr. Floyd is well known in fraternal circles, being connected with the Masons, the Knights of Pythias and the Elks. In politics he has always been a stalwart republican and is one of the active and effective workers in the ranks of the party. CHRIST BURKHARDT. From a humble apprenticeship Christ Burkhardt has worked his way steadily upward in the business world until he now occupies a leading position in commercial circles as the president of the Dayton Biscuit Company. Investigation into his life record shows that his rise has followed as the logical sequence of unwearied industry and unfaltering application. He was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1869, and came to Dayton in 1889 as a young man, ambitious to enjoy the superior business opportunities offered in the new world. His youthful days had been passed in his native country in the home of his father, Gottlieb Burkhardt, who still lives in Germany and ere he attained his majority he served an apprenticeship in a bakeshop of his native land. On reaching Dayton he sought employment in the line of his trade and remained in the service of others for about seven years or until 1896 when his careful expenditure and energy brought him sufficient capital to enable him to engage in business on his own 592 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY account. He, therefore, opened a grocery and bakery at the c0rner 0f Curtis and Burkhardt avenues in Dayton and for six years conducted the enterprise but sold out in July, 1902. He then organized the Dayton Biscuit Company, of which he was made president and is, therefore, today at the head of one of the important productive industries of the city, the output of which, owing to its excellence, finds a ready sale on the market while the reliable business methods 0f the house insure to the company a continuance of a liberal and growing trade. In 1893 Mr. Burkhardt was united in marriage in Dayton to Miss Barbara Haas and they have three children : Helen, Irma and Christian William. Mr. Burkhardt belongs to the lodge and chapter in Masonry and is also a member of the German Lutheran church. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to seek a home in America, nor has he ever felt that the favorable opinion which he formed concerning this land was in any way exaggerated. He did not hold any visionary ideas but realized that industry and perseverance must ever constitute the basis of success and upon those qualities as a foundation he has built the superstructure of his present prosperity. DAGOBERT A. SCHEIBENZUBER, M. D. Dr. Dagobert A. Scheibenzuber, devoting his attention to the practice of medicine, in which connection he has displayed considerable power in coping with the intricate problems that continually confront the physician, was born near the Danube in Austria on the 5th of December, 1868. His father, Dr. Anton Scheibenzuber, was a graduate of the University of Vienna and a man of broad scholastic attainment. In 1870 he came with his family to the new world, establishing his home in Hamilton, Ohio, where he practiced medicine for a few years, and then removed to Dayton. For a considerable period he was known as one of the best qualified and most eminent physicians in this state. His death occurred in this city in 1891 at the comparatively early age of forty-nine years. Dr. D. A. Scheibenzuber was in his second year at the time his parents crossed the Atlantic and was still in his youthful days when the removal was made to Dayton. Here he was reared and pursued his education in public and private schools. When his literary course was completed he took up the study of medicine with his father, and in 1886 became a student in the University of Vienna, where his father had previously been a student. There the son attended lectures for four years and also spent six months in study in Prague. Pursuing his course under some of the most distinguished physicians, surgeons and scientists of the old world, he returned to Dayton well equipped for his chosen profession. In 1891 he was graduated from the Cincinnati School of Medicine & Surgery and has since practiced in Dayton, his ability making him the peer of the ablest representatives of the profession here. He was professor of pathological anatomy and histology at the Cincinnati College of Medicine & Surgery for one year and was the first pathologist appointed for St. Elizabeth Hospital in this city, acting in that capacity for five years. He is now physician and surgeon of St. Joseph's Orphans Home in Dayton and is medical examiner for the Cleveland Life In- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 595 surance Company in this city and for the American Accident Assurance Company of Pennsylvania. He keeps in touch with the advancement of the profession through his membership in the Ohio State Medical Association and the Montgomery County Medical Society, as well as through private reading and research. Dr. Scheibenzuber possesses a social nature and genial manner that makes him popular with a large circle of friends that is constantly growing as the circle of his acquaintance broadens. He now belongs to the Einundzwanziger Club of Dayton and of the Telsebal Club. COLONEL DAVID BRUEN CORWIN. Not in fortuitous circumstances or a propitious environment lies the cause of success on the contrary it is inherent in the individual and the man who has determination and who recognizes and utilizes his opportunities may always work his way upward undeterred by any difficulties or obstacles that may arise. Among those prominent in the business circles of Dayton is Colonel David Bruen Corwin, formerly president of the City Railway Company, whose powers of organization and well formulated plans found expression in the establishment and successful control of this company. When Dayton was a little village with but slight industrial and financial importance Colonel Corwin entered upon the scene of earthly activities here, his natal year being 1839. He was reared, however, in Lebanon, where the family home was maintained for some time. There he spent his youthful days to the age of twenty years and acquired his education as a pupil in the public schools and in the Normal Academy. In March, 1862, he responded to the country's call for aid and became a lieutenant colonel of the Second Regiment of the Indian Brigade, this regiment being composed of Cherokee Indians, who were recruited in southern Kansas and the Indian Territory. Colonel Corwin served for two years with the Army of the Frontier, being engaged in suppressing the movements of the guerrillas and lawless characters in that section of the country. His valor and efficiency won him promotion to the rank of colonel of the Fifth Regiment of the Indian Brigade but only three hundred troops were recruited and they were then consolidated with another regiment s0 that he was not in active command in that capacity. He participated in the battle of Prairie Grove and in a number of minor engagements in the southwest and was mustered out in 1864. At the close of his military service Colonel Corwin returned to Dayton and took up the study of law in the office of his father, while later he continued his reading as a law student with the well known firm of Taft, Sage & Haacke, of Cincinnati, at the same time attending the Cincinnati Law School, from which he was graduated in 1866. The same year he was admitted to the bar and, returning to Dayton, opened an office for practice, entering into partnership with his brother Quincy Corwin. The following year he was elected city solicitor of 596 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Dayton and was reelected in 1869, serving in that office for two terms or four years. In the meantime Colonel Corwin had become recognized as a strong and influential factor in political circles, becoming one of the leading workers in the ranks of the republican party. In 1873 he was elected to the state senate, where he served for one term and then declined a second nomination. He afterward twice served as city solicitor by appointment and his official record was at all times characterized by prompt and businesslike discharge of the duties of the office but his aspirations were never in political lines and in more recent years he has preferred to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. About 1880 Colonel Corwin became secretary of the Fifth Street Railway Company on its organization and subsequently was elected president 0f that company. In 1893 the City Railway Company was organized and the Third Street and Fifth Street Railways, the Dayton & Soldiers' Home and Green lines of the city were consolidated under the new management. Colonel Corwin was active in forming and executing the plans leading to this result and was elected to the presidency of the company, in which capacity he was retained, displaying marked ability in administrative direction and executive control, until his retirement June 8, 1909. The interests of the company have ever been managed in accordance with the most progressive ideas of urban transportation and the business views and judgment of Colonel Corwin were ever an influencing factor in the company's affairs. In 1895 in South Dakota Colonel Corwin was married to Miss Jessie Bitzer. He belongs to Old Guard Post, G. A. R., of Dayton and to the Loyal Legion, thus maintaining his interest in military affairs. He is also connected with the Dayton City Club and the Bicycle Club and is recognized as an ardent republican although he takes no active part in politics at the present time. Correctly judging his own capacities and powers and recognizing also the possibilities and the limitations of others he has been enabled to surround himself with an able corps of assistants in his business life and has wrought along lines that have brought him substantial results. He is president of the Cooper Insurance Company and a director of the Dayton Gas Light Company. LOUIS L. WEHNER. Louis L. Wehner, secretary and treasurer of the Dayton Breweries Company, was born in the city which is still his home on the 26th of December, 1865. His youthful days were here passed and his education was acquired in the public schools but at the age of sixteen years he put aside his text-books and learned the carpenter's trade which he followed for three years. In 1888 on the organization of the Schantz & Schwind Brewery he became its bookkeeper, having in the meantime pursued courses of study at the night session of the Miami Commercial College, leading to his graduation with the class of 1887. He was thus well qualified for the duties which he assumed in connection with the newly organized brewery, with which he remained as bookkeeper for seven years when, DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 597 upon the death of L. A. Schwind, he was made collector and so served until August, 1900. At that time Mr. Wehner purchased the Pioneer Brewery at the corner of Wayne avenue and Hickory street and at once erected a new brewing plant at the corner of Concord and Scovil street. There he began business in January, 1902, making his first sales from the new plant in March, 1902, at the same time conducting the Pioneer Brewery. Gradually he has extended his. interests, having in 1901 purchased the John F. Oehlschlager Bottling Works and in the same year purchased the Alther Ale Brewery, after which he dismantled the last two and also the Pioneer Brewery and concentrated his energies upon other interests. On the 1st of March, 1904, the Wehner Brewing Company was merged with the Dayton Breweries Company and Mr. Wehner was chosen secretary and treasurer. He is also vice president and treasurer of the Dayton Base Ball Club Company, which he and Adam Schantz with others bought out. On the 7th of August, 1888, Mr. Wehner was married in Dayton to Miss Clara E. Linnemann and they have two children : Erma J. and Adiel. The family residence is at 542 West Second street, Dayton, and their summer home is a bungalow at Seven Knolls. Mr. Wehner is well known in social circles and club life. He holds membership with the Elks and Owls, the Cosmopolitan, the Marquette and the Dayton Gymnastic Clubs and lodge No. 3 of the United Commercial Travelers. He is also a member of the Sacred Heart church. In his business he displays excellent executive force and strong powers of organization and his well formulated plans are manifest in the excellent results which have attended his efforts. WILLIAM C. MENDENHALL, M. D. Dr. William C. Mendenhall, who since April, 1891, has practiced medicine in Trotwood, is numbered among the leading and successful representatives of the profession in Montgomery county. He was born in Darke county, Ohio, September 15, 1858, a son of Samuel and Catharine (Teeter) Mendenhall. His grandfather, Marmaduke Mendenhall, was one of the early settlers of Preble county, this state, where he passed away. Samuel Mendenhall, the father of our subject, followed the profession of school teaching in early manhood and later became a merchant at Woodington, Darke county. His family numbered eight children, namely : Hannah E., deceased ; Susan M. ; Franklin F., who is a resident of Edwards, Indiana ; William C., of this review ; Samuel M. ; Mary C. ; and Calvin C. and Alvin L., twins, the latter being an attorney at Decatur, Illinois. William C. Mendenhall attended the country schools near Woodington, Darke county, and during the periods of vacation worked 0n various f arms in the neighborhood. When but sixteen years of age he began teaching school and was thus engaged for seventeen years, acting as superintendent of schools in West Manchester, New Madison and Clarksville during the last seven years of his connection with educational interests. It was at the last named place that he took up the study of medicine, reading under the direction of Dr. Garland, of 598 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Clarksville, while subsequently he entered the Medical College of Ohio of which institution he is a graduate. In April, 1891, he came to Trotwood, where he has since prosecuted his profession with gratifying success, his skill and ability in his chosen calling being attested by the liberal and growing patronage that is accorded him. He is an active member of the Montgomery County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Association and the American Medical Association; thus keeping in close touch with the onward march of the fraternity. On the 20th of December, 1884, Dr. Mendenhall was united in marriage to Miss Martha A. Hapner, of West Sonora, Ohio, a daughter of James B. and Mary (Fleck) Hapner, the former being a very prominent agriculturist. Unto Dr. and Mrs. Mendenhall were born two children, as follows : Opal, who is deceased; and Russell L., a high school student. Fraternally Dr. Mendenhall is connected with the Odd Fellows Lodge; No. 510, of Dayton, Ohio, the Modern Woodmen of America, No. 7939, of Trotwood, and the Knights of the Golden Eagle, No. 115, of Dayton. He and his family are consistent and faithful members of the Christian church and have a large circle of friends who hold them in the highest esteem. WEBSTER W. SHUEY. One of the best known, most prominent and successful law firms of Dayton is that of Rowe, Shuey, Matthews & James. The ability of him whose name introduces this review has contributed to the enviable reputation which the firm enjoys. He is, moreover, entitled to representation in this volume as one 0f the county's native sons, his birth having occurred in Germantown, Ohio, March I 1;1849. He represents one of the old families of the county, his grandparents living here during the early part of the nineteenth century. His father, William A. Shuey, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, in 1822 and retained his residence here throughout his entire life. He lived in Germantown for a considerable period but in 1851 removed with his family to Dayton. Webster W. Shuey was at that time but two years of age and in the schools of this city he largely acquired his education but supplemented his preparation for the bar by a year's study in the Harvard Law School. On the 26th of May, 1871, he was admitted to practice in the courts of Ohio and located in Germantown, where he remained for a year. Returning to Dayton he then entered the law office of Gunckel & Rowe and so continued for several years after which he became a member of the firm of Gunckel, Rowe & Shuey. On the retirement of the senior partner the firm name 0f Rowe & Shuey was assumed and on the 7th of January, 1907, L. W. James was admitted while on the 1st of April, 1907, the present firm of Rowe, Shuey, Matthews & James was formed. Since admitted to practice in the courts of Ohio Mr. Shuey has proved his worth in the conduct of important litigated interests, preparing always for defense as well as for attack and thus he is never surprised by the position of the opponent. His knowledge of law and precedent are salient forces in his success while in the DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 599 presentation of his cause he gives to every point relative thereto its due prominence. Mr. Shuey was married in 1872 in this city to Miss Hattie E. McCain, and they now have two sons and three daughters, namely : I. Byrdella Plattenburg, Edward W. Shuey, May Belle Thornburg, Harriet Edna Scranton and Wilbur W. Shuey. They also lost one child in infancy. The parents hold membership in the Raper Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mr. Shuey is a trustee. He votes with the republican party and is interested in the vital questions of the day, but the demands of a growing law practice have left him little time for active participation in political affairs even had he so desired. He has always regarded the practice of law as his real life work and in this connection his labors have brought him to a position of prominence at the Dayton bar. COLONEL HERBERT G. CATROW. Colonel Herbert G. Catrow is well known as a leader in military, political and social circles in Miamisburg, and has left the impress of his individuality upon many lines of public thought and action. He was born in that city December 11, 1871, and is a son of N. J. and Malissa (Groby) Catrow, the former the president of the First National Bank of Miamisburg. Reared under the parental roof Colonel Catrow attended the public schools until 1886 and then went to Lawrenceville, New Jersey, where he entered the Lawrenceville Preparatory School. He afterward attended the Pennsylvania Military College at Chester, Pennsylvania, and was graduated with the class of 1893. On the completion of his course he entered the employ of the City 0f Philadelphia in the capacity of civil engineer and there continued until 1896. During that time he became interested in personally conducted foreign tours and remained in that business until 1898, when he returned to his Ohio home. In October of the same year he was elected cashier of the First National Bank and continued in that position until August, 1909, when he resigned. In a place of executive control he capably managed the interests of an important moneyed in- stitution and inaugurated a safe conservative policy that made his name an honored one on financial paper and in financial circles. His personal investments are large and he is interested in many local enterprises which have been of material benefit to the city and state. His judgment is sound, his enterprise keen and forceful and, carefully formulating his plans, he carries them forward to successful completion. On the 31st of January, 1894, Colonel Catrow was united in marriage to Miss May Johnson, a native of Chester, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of D. M. and Margaret (Brow) Johnson. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Catrow have been born three children : John Newton, Margaret Elizabeth and David Johnson. Theirs is one of the attractive and hospitable homes of Miamisburg, a cordial welcome ever being extended to their many friends. Colonel Catrow won his title in connection with the Ohio National Guard. In November, 1899, he was elected first lieutenant of Company G of the Third