DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 675 four children, but two have passed away, the surviving daughter being Louise Fiorini. The son, Alfred J. Fiorini, spent his first four years in his native city and was then a resident of New York from 1879 until 1885, when, at the age of ten years he accompanied his parents on their removal to Dayton. Here he continued his education in the public schools and also pursued a course in the College Preparatory School conducted by Professor A. B. Shauck. Later he entered the law office of Nevin & Kumler, who directed his reading for a time, while subsequently he spent two years in the Cincinnati Law School and was admitted to the bar in 1901. Immediately afterward he opened a law office in Dayton and in 1908 entered into partnership with N. W. White under the firm style of Fiorini & White. They have a good clientage and have done considerable important business in the courts. Mr. Fiorini is also well known because of his efficient public service in different connections. He was appointed fire marshal by Governor George T. Nash, having previously served as second deputy under S. D. Hollenbeck. He occupied the position of fire marshal for seven years and largely promoted the efficiency of the department. In 1906 he was chosen secretary of the board of elections, which position he is now filling. He is a valued and popular member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and he also holds membership in the First Baptist church. HARRY M. WOLFE. Harry M. Wolfe, attorney, ex-mayor and the present postmaster of Germantown, Ohio, was born April 28, 1881, in Dayton, Ohio, and is the son of Harry R. and Ella (Rott) Wolfe. His mother is the present wife of Dr. G. C. Myers, of Dayton. His paternal grandparents were John and Susan (Rench) Wolfe, and after the death of the grandfather his widow married Judge Dennis Dwyer, of Dayton, but she is now deceased. Harry M. Wolfe came to Germantown where he was about four years of age. In the schools here he received his early education, during a period of eleven and a half years, and then went to Notre Dame at South Bend, Indiana, where in three and a half years he completed his high-school work and two years of the classical course. Upon the completion of the collegiate work at this institution he entered the University of Michigan, from which he received his degree in law in 1905. In the September following his graduation he came to Germantown, where he opened an office on Center street and entered upon a promising career. In November of that year, when he was but twenty-four years of age, he was made mayor of Germantown. Although he was one of the youngest mayors in the state at that time, the two years of his government were among the best of those served by any similar official, and his administration was notable for the advance it made in cleanliness and general effectiveness. In political matters he espouses the republican cause and is a prominent figure in the county councils of that party. His appointment as postmaster was confirmed by the 676 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY senate June 12, 1909, and on the 1st of July following he entered upon his new duties. The few months that have elapsed may serve to indicate in some measure the high character of Mr. Wolfe's administration of the office. That succeeding years will prove its efficiency there can be no doubt. On the 17th of July, 1906, Mr. Wolfe was united in marriage to Miss Nellie M. Endress, the daughter of Joseph and Josie (Raines) Endress, her father being one of the well known tobacco men of the county. Mr. Wolfe is an active politician and has served on the county committees and in the conventions that regulate and take charge of local politics. He also takes an active part in the several fraternal and social organizations to which he belongs. He is secretary of Friendship Lodge, No. 21, of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a member of the Masonic lodge of Germantown, and Trinity Chapter, No. 44, R. A. M., of Miamisburg. The Junior Order of United American Mechanics numbers him as a most energetic member, and he is now serving as treasurer of that order. In short, he is a young man, of little experience as yet, who, to use a colloquial expression, does not let any grass grow under his feet, but who has shown a real desire to receive favors which he can prove he is worthy of at the hands of the people of his community. Honest and imbued with strong principles, there is every reason to anticipate that the people will profit by any confidence they may show in his abilities. PETER W. ARTZ. There is perhaps no citizen in the state of Ohio who has gained a wider reputation among the stock breeders and dealers of the United States than has Peter W. Artz, who handles sheep, cattle and hogs but makes a specialty of the former. He makes his home on a well improved farm of one hundred and forty-three acres in Wayne township, which was also the place of his birth, his natal day being September 15, 1855. The father, Henry H. Artz, was born near Fredericksburg, Washington county, Maryland, in 1822 and when a lad of nine years accompanied his parents on their removal from Maryland to a farm near Fairfield, Ohio, the journey being made by wagon and requiring thirty-three days. He was a youth of fifteen when he took up his abode upon the farm which has since been his home and which is now owned by our subject. The father acquired his education in the schools of this neighborhood and after completing his studies engaged in teaching two or three years. He then took up the occupation of farming, which he followed throughout his active business career but he is now living retired, making his home with his son Peter. He .has reached the very advanced age of eighty-seven years. In early life he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Crow, who was born in Virginia in 1827 and was but two years of age when she was brought from her native state to Ohio. She gave her hand in marriage to Henry H. Artz in Miami county in 1847, and they lived happily together until separated by death, Mrs. Artz passing away in the faith of the Methodist church, January 6, 1892, her remains being interred in the cemetery at New Carlisle. She had lived a long, honorable and useful life, DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 679 being sixty-five years of age at the time of her demise. Mr. Artz, like his wife, is a devoted Christian, holding membership in the Osborn Methodist church and has always taken an active part in all church work. Peter W. Artz spent the period of his boyhood and youth much in the usual manner of farm lads, assisting his father in the work of the fields during the plowing, planting and harvesting seasons, while in the winter months he pursued his studies in the district schools of the neighborhood, where he gained his literary knowledge and later he pursued a business course in Wilt's Commercial College at Dayton. After completing his education he started out upon an independent business venture by farming and breeding high grades of stock. He has now become one of the most successful bteeders of Hampshire Down sheep in the country, making importations from England nearly every year and in August of the present year received a shipment from that country. He makes shipments to nearly every state in the Union and each year exhibits his stock at the Columbus State Fair and also at the International Live Stock Show at Chicago, having acted as judge at the latter for three successive years. He has carried off many prizes from the various places he has made exhibits and has won a national reputation as a stock breeder. Until recently he bred Red polled cattle and Poland China hogs, making exhibits of these at the county fair. In addition to his interests in this connection, Mr. Artz also gives some time to general farming and is now the owner of the homestead property of one hundred and forty-three acres. Mr. Artz chose as a companion and helpmate Miss Ida M. Scarff, of Miami county, Ohio, their marriage being celebrated September 13, 1883. Her parents, B. B. and Harriett (Neff) Scarff, are now living retired. Mr. Scarff was formerly a farmer of Miami county and took an active and helpful part in public measures, having held the office of commissioner of Miami county for seven years, while for several, years he filled the offices of mayor and justice of the peace in Tippecanoe City, Ohio. Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Artz lived on a farm adjoining that of her father in Miami county, which he cultivated four years and then removed to Bethel township, Clarke county, making his home there fifteen years, prior to taking up his abode on his present home farm. It was while residing in Miami and Clarke counties that four children were added to the household: Scarff B., who was born July 28, 1884 ; Marie A., born September 8, 1888 ; Gladys H., born July 8, 1892, and now a junior at the Osborn high school ; and Judd Howard, who was born July 26, 1893, and died when sixteen months old. The eldest son, Scarf B., graduated from the Olive Branch high school and is now on the farm with his father. He was married February 17, 1909, to Miss Olive Senseman, of Miami county. Marie Artz also attended high school at Osborn and is now at home. She ,has taken up the study of music. Mr. Artz supports the men and measures of the republican party and for ten years served as a member of the school board in Bethel township, Clarke county, while he was also a member of the agricultural board of Miami county four years. He has been trustee of Wayne township for seven years, and in all his official positions has ever discharged his duties with the same promptness that he -displays in his private business affairs. He and his family are identified 680 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY with the Osborn Methodist church and while residing in Miami county served six years as superintendent of the Sunday school at Palm Chapel. He is a man who possesses splendid business ability and possesses all the elements of what may be termed a "square" man, one in whom his fellowmen can have confidence. He is well known in various sections of the country in connection with his breeding interests and wherever known the name of Peter W. Artz stands as a synonym for honesty, integrity and upright dealing. GEORGE HECK. George Heck, a dealer in horses in Harrison township, Montgomery county, was born in this township, September 16, 1866, on the old Heck farm, on Cincinnati street, about two miles south of the courthouse in Dayton. He is the son of Peter and Magdalena (Boddem) Heck. The father came direct to Dayton from Germany when he was a young man. He had received all his education in the land of his birth and on coming to the United States continued in the business he had pursued before leaving home. The capacity for hard work, which has ever been one of his strong characteristics, stood him in good stead when he started to make his way in the new country, so that it was not very many years before, by careful saving and good management, he was able to purchase the land which became the old homestead. His children were : Peter ; Mary ; Mort, deceased ; Elizabeth ; George ; Charles ; Hannah ; Emma, deceased ; Frank ; Rose ; Amanda, deceased ; and John. Peter Heck's parents could never be induced to leave the country which had always been their home, so it was left to him to establish the family here. George Heck received his first educational training in the schools of this county, going to Dayton to obtain what the higher institutions of learning there had to give, but during all the years that he was prosecuting his studies he was working with his father on the farm, so that by the time that his education was c0mpleted, he was a skilled cultivator of the soil and ready to undertake the care and responsibility of a farm of his own. To bringing forth from the land a high quality of vegetables and garden truck he devoted the greater part of his time up to within the last ten years, and during this period was the owner of a considerable piece of land. He gradually drifted into the horse business, however, beginning in a small way while he still continued his gardening, and then entering into it on a larger and larger scale. There were many things about the business that appealed to him strongly, he gave to it almost all of his time and soon made it one of the largest of its kind in this part of the state, and this without ever going beyond Dayton for a market in his buying and selling operations. On the 15th of November, 1886, Mr. Heck was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Grusenmeyer, whose parents, Michael and Elizabeth Grusenmeyer, are very prominent in German circles. Mr. and Mrs. Heck have been blessed with seven children. Irwin, the oldest son, has completed his education in the Dayton schools and is an assistant to this father in his business : Rosie and Syl- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 681 vester have also finished their school work ; while Carl is still studying ; Agnes, Michael and Joseph are the three youngest. The family are regular in their attendance at the services of St. John's church, Dayton. Mr. Heck exhibits by his life and the success of his business what may be accomplished by hard work and a careful conserving of resources. It is wholly through his own efforts that he has attained a position of note in his calling. Yet all his diligence would have amounted to naught were it not united with the most scrupulous honor which distinguishes him in all his dealings. HARRY M. ALTICK. Harry M. Altick, as proprietor of the Dayton Engine Works, is well known in the industrial circles of Dayton, while he also figures prominently along other lines of activity in this city. As the name indicates, the family is of German descent and is one of the old and well known families of Dayton, the grandfather of our subject, Daniel Altick, a native Virginian, having been numbered among the first of Dayton's early citizens. He was engaged in the brass manufacturing business in this county and upon his demise was laid to rest in Dayton. His wife was Rachel (Wolf) Altick. His son William Altick, the father of our subject, was also numbered among Dayton's oldest citizens. A native of this city, he removed with his parents to Miamisburg, Ohio, where his father was engaged in the brass manufacturing business. There he received his early education and later returned with his parents to Dayton, where he completed his studies. Under his father's supervision he learned the brass manufacturing business and later engaged in this line o f activity in Dayton. He was a soldier of the Civil war. He married Mary C. Layman and in their family were four children : Arthur, now deceased ; Clara, the wife of George Coblentz, of Dayton ; Othello; and Harry M. The last named was born in Dayton, February 6, 1864, and his entire life has here been spent. Although the youngest member of his father's family, he has been the actual head of the household. Reared in the city of his nativity, he attended the Dayton schools in the acquirement of his early education and later became a student in the high school here, from which in due course of time he was graduated. He then became interested in the study of machinery and subsequently- pursued a commercial course in the Miami Commercial College. Thus well equipped for the practical and responsible duties of life, he crossed the threshold of the business world and took his initial step as a bookkeeper in the employ of Woodell Machine Company as bookkeeper. During his connection with. the firm in this capacity he gained a thorough insight into the business and when at length he felt that his experience and capital permitted, he purchased the business and became its sole owner. The salient qualities in his business career have been indefatigable energy and unfaltering perseverance, and these characteristics, combined with a clear understanding of the business in every detail and the ability to capably manage and control his business interests, have been the means of winning for him the prominent place he now holds in the 682 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY industrial circles of Dayton. The factory is situated on the corner of Sears and New Market streets, and in addition to his manufacturing interests he is also the owner of a valuable plat situated just on the edge of the city. In his industrial and horticultural enterprises he has been signally successful, and he now ranks among the representative citizens of Dayton. On the 14th of October, 1891, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Altick and Miss Estella Knerr, a daughter of Louis and Elizabeth (Hesse) Knerr, the former a retired paper manufacturer. Unto this union were born seven children : Harold K., engaged in business with his father ; Mary E., Louis W., Arthur T., and Ernest E., all students at school ; Hugh H. and Robert L.. at home. The family residence is in Harrison township, adjoining the city of Dayton, and the members of his household are thus able to indulge in the delights and pleasures of rural life, while at the same time they enjoy the conveniences and opportunities offered by the city. In politics Mr. Altick is a republican and he has served as justice of the peace in Harrison township, while he also ran for sheriff on his party ticket and through the influence of his friends made a close race. Fraternally he is connected with the Knights of Pythias, lodge, No. 639, of Riverdale, with the Elks lodge, No. 58, of Dayton, the Maccabees, No: 113, of Dayton, and holds membership with the Junior Order of United American Mechanics, No. 7. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which he has been accorded due recognition of labor, while at all times he has made good use of his opportunities. Public-spirited in citizenship, his influence is ever on the side of progress and reform, and his fellowmen know him as a worthy citizen and business man and entertain for him high regard. CHARLES ANDREW FUNKHOUSER. Charles Andrew Funkhouser, since 1900 a member of the Dayton bar, his native city, was born in 1874. He is a son of the Rev. G. A. Funkhouser, for years a distinguished representative of the United Brethren ministry, and Susan (Kumler) Funkhouser. His youthful days were passed in his native city, unmarked by any event of especial importance, the main feature of his. youth being the attainment of an education in the public schools, followed by a course of study in Otterbein University at Westerville, Ohio, from which he was graduated with the class of 1895, receiving at that time the Bachelor of Arts degree. He then took up the profession of teaching in this county and followed it for three years, after which he carried out a cherished hope of preparing for the bar by entering the law department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where he won his Bachelor of Law degree in 1900. In June of the same year Mr. Funkhouser was admitted to the bar and at once opened an office in Dayton, where his record stands in contradistinction to the old adage that a prophet is never without honor save in his own country, for in the city of his nativity Mr. Funkhouser has made a creditable record and his steady progress in legal lines now places him in a gratifying position in the DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 683 ranks of the legal profession. In February, 1901, he formed a partnership with F. M. Compton, under the firm style of Compton & Funkhouser, and they have since continued in the general practice of law with a growing clientage that is connecting them with much important work of the courts of the city. Mr. Funkhouser belongs to no secret society or club but holds membership in the United Brethren church. Politically he gives earnest endorsement to the republican party. He does not seek office, however, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his professional duties, and the care and precision with which he prepares his cases constitutes one of the strongest elements in his successful practice. In October, 1909, Mr. Funkhouser was united in marriage to Miss Dhel Loofbourrow of Mount Sterling, Ohio, a daughter of John G. and Huldah K. Loofbourrow. The former was a well known and prominent citizen of that town. ROBERT THRUSTON HOUK. R. Thruston Houk, who has found that the path of unremitting industry leads eventually to success, is now superintendent of the Dayton Motor Car Company. He has a wide acquaintnce in the city of Dayton, where his birth occurred and where his entire life has been passed, his natal day being September 27, 1862. He is a son of George W. and Eliza P. (Thruston) Houk. At the usual age he entered the public schools and later continued his studies in Cooper Academy, from which he was graduated with the class of 1881. He made his entrance into the business world as an employe of A. A. Simonds, a machinery manufacturer with whom he continued for two years and in 1883 and 1884 he was engaged in the paper business in connection with H. E. Mead & Company. On the expiration of that period he went south to New Mexico where he acted as assistant superintendent of a silver mine until the fall of 1885 when he returned to Dayton and was again with H. E. Mead & Company until 1889. In that year he became final inspector for the National Cash Register Company and for nineteen years continued with that house, acting in various capacities as his capability won him successive promotions. For sometime he acted as a member of the factory committee. On the 1st of January, 1906, he took the Kansas City agency for the National Cash Register and controlled the business of the company in that locality for a year but resigned on the 1st of February, 1907, to take his present position, having now served for more than two years as superintendent of the Dayton Motor Car company. On the 20th of September, 1887, Mr. Houk was married in Cincinnati to Miss Lilly Talbott, a daughter of J. L. Talbott, and they have five children as follows : Robert Thruston, Katharine Talbott, Sarah Elstner, George W. and John Talbott. Mr. Houk belongs to the Dayton City Club and also to the Country Club and the Buz Fuz Club. His religious views are in accord with the teachings of the Episcopal church, while his political belief is embodied in the democratic platform. He is a public-spirited citizen, interested in municipal progress, reform and improvement, but his work therefor is that of influence rather than 684 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY the active efforts of one who desires political preferment as a reward for party fealty. He has a wide acquaintance in Dayton and that the salient characteristics of his life are such as command uniform respect and regard is indicated in the fact that many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from boyhood down to the present time. MATHIAS GLASER. Mathias Glaser is one of the oldest gardeners of Harrison township, Montgomery county, Ohio. His home and gardens are located on Cincinnati street, just south of the city of Dayton. He was born in the year 1847 at Buffalo, New York, and is the son of Mathias and Helen (Weber) Glaser. The father was born in Prussia, and served the required three years in the army. Upon his discharge he engaged in gardening and farming until he came to the United States. For several years after his arrival here he worked at different places, finally coming to Dayton, where he took up gardening. He purchased a tract on the Troy pike, just outside the city, which he tilled successfully for a long time. Mathias Glaser, the son, has had a very useful and eventful life. He received his early training at home and in the schools of Dayton. After putting aside his text-books he worked for several of the leading gardeners, and after a few years had saved sufficient money to go into cultivating the soil for himself. This first venture, however, was not a success, for he lost all his money the initial year. He had not lost courage, however, and as his credit was good, he made another trial in this same line. Good fortune attended his efforts this time, as it has during the subsequent years, until he has reached an enviable position among those who till the soil in this county. His hard work in this early period was well repaid and enabled him to buy a tract of five acres on Cincinnati street, which has lately been platted and is known as the Glaser plat. A few years after this first purchase Mr. Glaser bought another tract farther south on Cincinnati street, where he has made his home during the past twenty-eight years. For forty years he has had a stall, No. 20, in the Central Market and this fact, if nothing else, makes him well known among those who sell the produce from their land. He has an attractive personality and a good reputation, which assures him patronage. Previous to engaging in business for himself Mr. Glaser had enlisted in the army to fight for the preservation of the Union. He joined Company E, Fifty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the cessation of hostilities, when he was honorably discharged, returning home with a most creditable military record. He had fought under Lieutenant Colonel William S. Frizzner in the Army. of the Potomac. On the 7th of October, 1869, Mr. Glaser was united in marriage to Miss Thekla Schneider, a daughter of Joseph and Louise (Ritterbusch) Schneider, who are farming people of Auglaize county, Ohio. Ten children were born of this union, namely : Henrietta M., whose demise occurred on the 12th of July, 1909 ; Amanda B., a teacher in the Dayton schools ; Lillian, who is the wife of Harry Heck ; Leo B., a bookkeeper ; Rudolf C., a gardener ; Vernon F., who in DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 687 association with his father, has charge of the home garden plat ; and four who died in infancy. The family belong to the Emanuel Catholic church. Mr. Glaser is active in several organizations, being a valued member of the Knights of Columbus, the Foresters, the Elks Lodge, No. 58, and the Old Guard Post of the Grand Army of the Republic. He also belongs to the German Pioneer Society and is a member of the Miami Valley Law and Order League, being closely identified with the ideals and purposes of this order. GEORGE K. CETONE. An attractive individuality as well as capability and unassailable devotion to the public good has been a feature in placing George K. Cetone in his present position of prominence in connection with the political interests of the state. He is now serving as senator from the third district following acceptable public service in minor capacities. He was born on a farm in Miami county, Ohio, September 27, 1866, and is a son of Stephen Cetone, a native of Paris, France, born in 1813. Arriving in America in 1833 when a young man of twenty-two years he located in Dayton, -which was then a city of but a few thousand inhabitants. He served as a member of the old volunteer fire department and was otherwise connected with prominent interests of the early days. In the '60s he removed from this city to Miami county, where he was identified with agricultural interests for about three decades. He also conducted an extensive business as a gardener but in 1890 returned to Dayton where he spent his remaining days in well earned rest, passing away in 1892. In early manhood he had wedded Ellen Dye who still lives in Troy, Ohio, at the age of eighty-two years. They were the parents of four children : Elizabeth J., who became the wife of John A. Webb and died in 1884; James D., William A. and George K., all of whom are residents of this city. The last named was reared on the home farm in Miami county to the age of nineteen and during that period attended the country schools between the ages of six and fifteen years. The periods of vacation were largely devoted to the work of the farm and he was trained to habits of unfaltering industry. About 1886 he entered the postoffice at. Troy, Ohio, as a clerk, the position coming to him without his solicitation. He had previously taken an active part 'in politics for several years which undoubtedly brought him prominently before the public in that locality. He remained in the postoffice for about two years, after which he was appointed to the position of postal clerk and so served during the last two years of President Cleveland's first administration. On retiring from the office he was employed as ,salesman and collector in a nursery at Troy, his association with that business covering eight years. In 1898 he entered the employ of the Central States Bridge Company of Indianapolis, Indiana. He had made his home in Dayton since 1890 and continued his residence here under his new position. He owns a fine farm in Van Buren township, Montgomery county, and is greatly interested in horticultural matters, successfully conducting fruit raising interests upon his farm. 688 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Throughout his entire life Mr. Cetone has been deeply interested in political questions and has long been recognized as one of the leaders of democracy in this state, laboring earnestly for the adoption of the party principles because of his belief that they will best subserve the interests of good government. His activity in political circles and his public-spirited citizenship made him a logical candidate for the office of state senator on the democratic ticket in November, 1908, and the public expressed confidence in his ability at the ensuing election so that he is now sitting in the upper house of the Ohio assembly. In 1894 Mr. Cetone was married in Bedford, Iowa, to Miss Rena Pierce and they have one son, Eugene Pierce. Mr. Cetone is well known in connection with various societies, holding membership with the United Commercial Travelers of Dayton, with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Masonic fraternity, in which he has taken the degrees of the York and Scottish Rites and of the Mystic Shrine. He is a very approachable, genial gentleman, good fellowship being one of his strong characteristics. It is the expression of a genuine interest in his fellowmen. It is the expression of a genuine interest in his fellowmen. With not the slightest tendency toward pessimism he appreciates those things which make life agreeable, interesting and worth living and is always a favorite in social circles. JOHN ZEHNDER. Throughout the history of the world mere success has never, save in a few rare instances, been the cause of any man being remembered by his fellows, and never has the mere accumulation of wealth won honor for the individual. The methods employed in the attainment of success in business, however, may awaken approval and admiration, for the world pays its tribute to him who through enterprise, unrelaxing effort and clear sighted judgment makes advancement in the business world without infringing on the rights of others. Such was the record of John Zehnder, who during the long years of his residence in Dayton never deviated from a course that he believed to be right but stood through several decades as a leading representative of the German element, which has so largely conserved the interests and upbuilding of this city. Mr. Zehnder was born in Bulzhauzen, Bayem, Germany, in 1826, and while yet a young man came to America, interested in the new world, its opportunities and advantages. He first settled near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and after living there but a short time removed to Illinois, where he resided for a few years. On the expiration of that period he came to Dayton, where he spent the last half century of his life. During the early period of his residence here he engaged in the hotel business on Market street, which was then one of the city's most attractive and prominent thoroughfares. His hostelry was a favorite resort with many visitors to Dayton and through its conduct he formed a wide acquaintance. Later he turned his attention to the lumber trade and in the conduct of that enterprise was associated for about ten years with Hoglen & Hauck and John Hoglen and later with Hoglen Brothers, having charge of their yards. HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 689 He next turned his attention to the grocery business, establishing a store at the corner of High and Richard streets. He had supervision over that establishment for thirty-five years, or until failing health forced him to abandon active pursuits. The store was then conducted under the management of members of his family. As a business man Mr. Zehnder ranked high, being actuated in all that he did by laudable ambition and sterling principles. Among his salient characteristics were thrift and industry, which, intelligently directed, brought him a substantial measure of success. On the 4th of January, 1857, in Dayton, occurred the marriage of Mr. Zehnder and Miss Francisco. They became the parents of three sons and two daughters, who are yet living, namely : John, Joseph and Peter Zehnder, Mrs. Mary Ryan and Mrs. Lizzie Roth. Mr. Zehnder had the faculty of acquiring friends, and once acquired they became more steadfast in their loyalty to him as the years passed. His death was consequently mourned by many who learned to appreciate his sincerity and genuine worth. In business life his record ever conformed to the highest standard of commercial ethics but he never allowed his life to become self centered. On the contrary, it reached out in its interests to those movements and measures relative to the general welfare. He took great pride in his home city and frequently recited instances connected with its early history. He watched with interest its growth and upbuilding as the years passed, seeing its transformation from a comparatively small village to one of the rich industrial and commercial centers of Ohio. Wherever he was known he was honored and most of all where he was best known. His life record covered eighty-two years, death coming to him in 1908. The world is better. for the example of every honorable, upright man and through the long years of his residence here John Zehnder left the impress of his individuality for good upon the community. JOSEPH ENDRESS. A spirit of enterprise and progress characterizes the business record of Joseph Endress, who in partnership with A. C. Kircher is engaged in business in Germantown under the name of the Pioneer Leaf Tobacco Company. They own one of the largest factories of this part of the state, where the tobacco trade of Ohio centers, and Mr. Endress' long connection with this line of business makes him one of its foremost representatives. He was born in Cincinnati, March 6, 1865, and is a son of Joseph and Mollie (East) Endress. The father was a native of Germany and was still a boy when he bade adieu to that country and made the long voyage across the Atlantic to the new world. On reaching America he came direct to Montgomery county, settling in Dayton, where soon afterward he secured employment in the cigar factory, learning the trade in principle and detail. About the time of the Civil war he removed to Germantown where he engaged in the manufacture of cigars for a time, while later he also turned his attention to the leaf tobacco business, continuing both enterprises for a long period. He became recognized as one of the leading rep- 690 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY resentatives of the tobacco trade and as the years went by scured an extensive patronage that made his business one of large and profitable proportions. At length, however, he retired to enjoy in well earned rest the fruits of his former toil. He was a very prominent man of his community and a most public-spirited citizen, keenly alive to general interests and active in support of all measures which he deemed beneficial to the locality. Joseph Endress, Jr., coming to Germantown in his early boyhood, pursued his education in the schools of this place, continuing the course through consecutive grades until he was graduated from the high school. All of this time he was interested in the tobacco business, being a keen observer of the work that was carried on in his father's factory, and when a young man he took up the business and became his father's successor upon the latter's retirement. By earnest effort, close application and unfaltering diligence he has brought the business up to its present high standard and its extensive proportions, his trade reaching a large figure annually. He is considered an expert judge of tobacco and is thoroughly familiar with the modern processes of manufacture, while his success is indicative, moreover, of his capable management of the trade. On the 17th of June, 1886, Mr. Endress was married to Miss Josie Raines, a daughter of Andrew and Sophia (Greenwood) Raines. They have become the parents of one child, Nellie, now the wife of Harry Wolf. Mr. Endress is a prominent Mason of Germantown and holds membership in the Elks lodge, of Dayton. He belongs also to the Independent Order of. Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias fraternity and the Improved Order of Foresters. He has •spent almost his entire life in Germantown and his salient qualities are such as have gained for him the high position which he now occupies in public regard. PETER WERT KLINGER. It is a noticeable fact that the young men are rapidly forging to the front and are occupying the positions of responsibility in business circles. A proof of this fact lies in the record of Peter Wert Klinger, now superintendent of the Barney & Smith Car Company of Dayton. He was born near Greenville, Ohio, October 29, 1874, a son of A. J. Klinger, who was born near West Alexandria. Our subject was reared at his birthplace, spending much of his youth in the acquirement of a knowledge of those branches of learning which were taught in its public schools. He afterwards entered the Rose Polytechnic Institute at Terre Haute, Indiana, where he was graduated in 1896 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. Returning home on the completion of his course, he became associated with his father in the operation of a flour mill at Greenville, but thinking to find better opportunities for advancement in the city, he came to Dayton and on the 2d of March, 1897, entered the employ of the Barney & Smith Car Company as electrician, installing the first electric plant at the car shops. Subsequently he was also assigned to the position of foreman of the machine shop and in the fall of 1902 entered the office, where he performed various duties that were assigned him, his work, however, being largely that of DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 691 assistant superintendent. He so continued until the fall of 1908 and during the last four and a half years was known as assistant superintendent. At that date he was promoted to his present position as superintendent and his practical experience in mechanical lines as well as his executive force and thorough understanding of the demands of business well qualify him for the onerous and important duties which devolve upon him. Mr. Klinger has been twice married. In 1897 he wedded Harriet Sater in Greenville, Ohio, who died in July, 1902, leaving two daughters, Mildred and Helen. In 1905, in Greenville, Ohio, Mr. Klinger was again married, his second union being with Susan Leonard Dills. Mr. Klinger is a member of the Baptist church, interested in all that tends to work for progressive citizenship and for the development of the community in intellectual and moral lines. His political allegiance is given to the republican party where national questions are involved but at municipal elections he casts an independent ballot, knowing that there is no issue before the people, the paramount consideration being the capability and reliability of the men who seek office. He is a dependable man, one in whom trust may well be placed, it being through his own worth and diligence that he has reached his present enviable position in the business circles of Dayton. CHARLES F. KNECHT. Charles F. Knecht, fire insurance adjuster of Dayton, was born in the old Knecht hotel on East Second street in this city, October 19, 1863. He is a representative of one of the oldest and best known families of Montgomery county and his record is a credit to the untarnished family name. His father, Christ Knecht, was born in Germany, in 1814, and in early manhood came to America, at once making his way to Dayton. Here he was married to Miss Elizabeth Schieble, and unto them were born twelve children, eight of whom reached years of maturity, while five are still living. The father served as a soldier in the Mexican war, going to the front as a private but returning as captain, his promotion coming to him in recognition of his meritorious service on the field of battle. He was well known in Dayton for many years through his business connections and his personal worth, his name being closely associated with the events of early days. He was the organizer of the Montgomery Cavalry Company, composed of many of the older citizens of the county, and the hand painted silk flag which they carried is still in the possession of the family. Charles F. Knecht was the tenth child and eighth son in his father's family. He was reared and educated in Dayton, pursuing his course in the public schools to the age of seventeen years, when he became connected with the Dayton Insurance Company and so continued from 1881 until 1885. In the latter year he entered the employ of the Firemen's Insurance C0mpany of Dayton, which he represented for five years, and on the expiration of that period became special agent and adjuster for the Ohio Insurance Company of Dayton. There he continued until 1894, when he became secretary of the Dayton Board of Underwriters, to rate all property in Montgomery county. He acted in that capacity 692 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY for three years, at the end of which time the board dissolved. He then became an independent fire insurance adjuster, rather responsible work, virtually handling for his companies thousands of dollars annually, and has so continued to the present time. He possesses keen discrimination in pointing out all the points of the case, attempts to secure absolute fairness and justice to both the insurance companies and their claimants in the adjustment of all business matters and as the years have gone by he has become widely known in insurance circles as a man of discriminating judgment and marked business ability. He has always been interested in fine trotting horses, was the first secretary of the Dayton Driving Club, serving as secretary, treasurer and president for five years, and much of its success can be attributed to his hard labor. In 1897, in Detroit, Mr. Knecnt was married to Miss Minne Hanawalt, a native of Ross county, Ohio. Mr. Knecht belongs to the Masonic fraternity, the Pathfinders and to the Blue Goose Club, a national social organization of insurance men. He is appreciative of the social amenities of life and not only wins but retains the warm friendship and kindly regard of those with whom he is being continually brought in contact. FRANK BLESSING. Frank Blessing, actively engaged in farming interests in Madison township, Montgomery county, where he owns one hundred and sixty-two acres of fine farm land, was born May 14, 1870, in Cass county, Indiana. He is a son of John and Sarah (Miller) Blessing, the former at one time a prominent and well known farmer of his native county, but now living retired. His father, Absalom Blessing, was a native of Maryland and came to Ohio, where he took up his abode in Greene county. At the time of his arrival here much of the territory was still in its primitive condition and he was compelled to clear the land upon which he made his home and undertake the difficult task of converting it into productive fields. Both he and his wife, Mary Blessing, lived to a very old age. John Blessing originally owned a farm in Cass county, Indiana, which he successfully operated for many years, but eventually he sold his property and came to Ohio, where he lives retired with the subject of this sketch. Reared under the parental roof, Frank Blessing attended the common schools of his native county and during the vacation periods assisted in the work of the farm. After completing his education he continued to engage in farm work in Cass county, Indiana, until twenty years of age, when he came to Ohio. Carefully saving his earnings until he had acquired sufficient means wherewith to purchase a farm of his own, in 1904 he bought the property upon which he now resides, consisting of one hundred and sixty-two acres of excellent farming land on the Union road about two and a half miles south of the town of Trotwood. This farm, known as Bell Acre, through indefatigable energy and unremitting labor, bas been brought under a fine state of cultivation, yielding annually to its owner a very gratifying income. On this property Mr. Blessing has erected a fine eight-room house with all modern improvements, as well as large barns DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 695 and outbuildings in the rear. The air of neatness and prosperity surrounding the place is indicative of the care bestowed upon it and bespeaks the success which he has attained in his agricultural pursuits. On December 29, 1893, Mr. Blessing was united in marriage to Miss Anna Bell Lentz, a daughter of George and Catharine Lentz, very prominent farmers, and unto them have been born three children, Glenn, Ivy and Martha, all attending school. Mr. Blessing is a member of the conservative branch of the Dunkard church, and exerts his influence toward extending the good work of the church throughout the community. In harmony with its teachings his life has at all times been an honorable and useful one, and he and his wife have the regard and esteem of a number of warm friends. In politics he is a republican. REV. BERNARD P. O'REILLY. Rev. Bernard P. O'Reilly, president of St. Mary's Institute at Dayton, was born in Rochester, New York, in 1874, and there his youthful days were passed, his primary education being acquired in St. Patrick's School of that city. In 1889, when a youth of fifteen, he came to Dayton and entered the seminary department of St. Mary's Institute, where he spent three years in further study. In 1892 he went to Europe, completing his classical course abroad and won the Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Besancon, France. He next went to Brittany, and at St. Brieuc acted as professor of English in the Naval Academy. In 1900 he went to Paris, France, to complete his theological studies and on the 14th of April, 1903, he was ordained by Monseigneur Richard, archbishop of Paris. Upon his return to Dayton in 1903 he acted as professor in St. Mary's Institute, thus continuing for three years. On the expiration of that period he was made vice president and so served for two years, while in 1908 he was chosen to the presidency and is now at the head of this well known Catholic institute, which under his guidance is doing good work, the courses of study being carefully systematized, while he has also spent much thought upon the best way to use time and effort in the acquirement of knowledge that shall be a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties. NORTH WIGGIM. An excellent farm of one hundred and ten acres pays tribute to the care and labor of North Wiggim. He has spent his entire life in the county of his nativity, his birth having occurred in January, 1859, in Mad River township, Montgomery county. He is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Hawker) Wiggim, natives of Ohio. The father was born in 1836 in Montgomery county and attended the common schools in the acquirement of his education. He engaged in general farming as an occupation but retired from active life several years prior to his demise, which occurred in the fall of 1906, his remains being interred at Wood- 696 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY land cemetery in Dayton. He was a member of the First Reformed church of Dayton. His wife was a native of Greene county and her father, who also engaged in farming, was a minister of the Reformed church and preached until his death. They have both passed away, being buried in the Hawker cemetery. North Wiggim learned the occupation of agriculture under the direction of his father and acquired his education in the common schools of Montgomery county. When he reached years of manhood he wisely chose as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared and has since continued to engage in general farming in his native county. He owns a farm of one hundred and ten acres in Wayne township and the care and labor which he has bestowed upon it are evidenced in its neat and attractive appearance. He is up-to-date in his methods and through his close application, his industry and perseverance and his well directed energies he gained . for himself a place among the successful and progressive farmers of the township. On the l0th of February, 1898, Mr. Wiggim was united in marriage to Miss Anna E. Bock, a daughter of John and Martha Bock, the former a farmer who is still actively engaged in that occupation. Mrs. Wiggim was born in May, 1894, in Greene county, Ohio, and attended the common schools in the acquirement of an education. She was a member of the Bethel Reformed church and passed away on the 3d of May, 1909, her burial taking place in David cemetery. Her death was due to heart trouble. She was an excellent woman, whose many good traits of heart and mind caused her loss to be mourned by a large number of friends. She leaves besides her husband one son, Herbert, who was born March 4, 1901, and is now a pupil at the Oak Grove school. They also lost one child, Lawrence, who was born March, 1898, and only lived two weeks. Mr. Wiggim is a member of the Bethel Reformed church and his life has at all times been in harmony with his professions. Having spent his entire life in this county, he has gained an extensive circle of friends, the consensus of public opinion according him a high place among the valued and representative citizens of the community. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN McCANN. Benjamin Franklin McCann is of Scotch-Irish ancestry and was born near Zanesville, Muskingum county, Ohio. His mother, whose maiden name was Jane McKee, was said to be a woman of rare parts. His father, Thomas A. McCann, was a school teacher and farmer and a man of influence in the community. Judge McCann's boyhood was spent on the farm. He received his early education'in the common schools and afterward completed the classical course at Denison University. He studied law in the office of Gunckel & Rowe of Dayton and was admitted to practice in June, 1890. Upon the establishment of the police court in Dayton in 1891, he was appointed by the board of police directors as the first prosecutor therein. He was elected judge of the probate court on the democratic ticket In 1899 and reelected in 1902 by a majority of over three thousand two hundred, although the county went republican by majorities ranging from DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 697 two thousand five hundred to five thousand for all other republican candidates. Upon the enactment of the law establishing juvenile courts in Ohio, he was selected by the common pleas judge as judge of the juvenile court for Montgomery county in addition to his duties as probate judge and as such performed a noteworthy public service. He was renominated for probate judge again in 1905 against his expressed wish but refused to accept the nomination and became a prominent candidate that year for governor of Ohio. Since that time Judge McCann has refused all suggestions of political preferment and has given his entire time and attention to his professional work, in which he has been eminently successful. He is endowed with the persistence characteristic of his ancestry. Studious by nature, he has taken advantage of his opportunities and brings to his work a mind well equipped for his professional duties. Positive in character and frank in the expression of his views, his judgment on matters is sought after and valued. His official life was noted for a conscientious and fearless discharge of duty and he enjoys today the confidence of the entire community, regardless of political affiliations. Possessed of a genial disposition and an approachable manner, the Judge has never lacked for friends, and his acquaintance among all classes is perhaps not surpassed by any other member of the bar. His work among the boys and girls of the city will not soon be forgotten, and the friendly salutation of the newsboy or bootblack is sure of recognition. Much of his spare time has been devoted to matters of public interest to the community, chief among which, perhaps, is the work of the Young Men's Christian Association. The Judge has always said that he owed the organization and its former secretary, D. A. Sinclair, a debt of gratitude for providing a homelike abiding place for him as he came to the city, a student, years ago. As a member of its board of directors and especially as its president for a number of years, he has been recognized as a leading spirit in the work of the organization and has given liberally of his time and effort in securing the new building which it now occupies. Judge McCann was married in 1900 to Miss Laura H. Thresher, a most estimable young woman and a member of one of Dayton's old families. They occupy a cozy home on the Boulevard with their three children. Surrounded by them and a fine library of books, which have been carefully selected, the Judge insists that home is the best spot on earth and that his work is the only counter attraction that can be offered. CHARLES EDWARD KINDER. Charles Edward Kinder, editor and proprietor of the Miamisburg News published at Miamisburg, Ohio, his native city, is a son of John E. and Elizabeth (Clark) Kinder, both of whom were natives of this state, the former born in Franklin and the latter in Miamisburg. The paternal grandfather of our subject was George Kinder, one of the pioneer residents of Franklin, Ohio, who in the course of years became a prominent contractor. He built a portion of the Miami 698 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY and Erie Canal and also a section of Cincinnati and Dayton pike. He was born in Pennsylvania but came to Ohio with his parents about 1798 when a little boy of only three years. Through the period of his manhood he was closely and prominently associated with business affairs in his locality and for many years ran a line of canal boats but at length retired to enjoy a season of rest through the evening of life. He died in 1861 when about seventy years of age. His wife was Mrs. Eliza (Schnorff) Kinder, who was born in Warren county, Ohio, near Lebanon in 1802. The maternal grandfather of Charles E. Kinder was Nelson Clark, one of the very early settlers of Miamisburg. He was born in New York, was a gunsmith by trade and became famous as a manufacturer of rifles which he made entirely from the raw material. He died in Miamisburg in 1859 when more than sixty years of age. His first wife, who was the grandmother of our subject, bore the maiden name of Sarah Tapscott and was born in New Jersey. In addition to manufacturing rifles Nelson Clark engaged in the milling business and was also connected with a number of other interests. He likewise built the first three-story house in Miamisburg—the Valley house on North Main street. John E. Kinder, father of our subject, was born in Franklin, Ohio, and became a miller, following that pursuit for several years. He afterward served as postmaster at Franklin for nine years and also held various political positions of an official character. For five years he acted as the United States store-keeper and then in middle life was called to his final rest, passing away in 1877 when but forty-six years of age. His wife still survives him and lives in Miamisburg in a home which she has occupied for nearly sixty years and which her father gave to her when she was a little girl. In their family were five children, a son and four daughters : Charles Edward ; Anna, who for nearly twenty years was a clerk in the Miamisburg postoffice ; Mary and Bertha, who are teachers in the public schools of Miamisburg ; and Sallie, the wife of Hon. H. F. Cellarius of Cincinnati. Charles Edward Kinder was reared in Miamisburg and, passing through consecutive grades in the public schools, was at length graduated from the high school. He then learned the printers' trade in the office of his uncle, George D. Kinder, of Ottawa. Ohio, there remaining for four years, during which time he gained an intimate knowledge of the business and was thus well qualified to carry on business on his own account at a later day. On the expiration of that period he came to Miamisburg and established the Miamisburg News in 1880, since which time he has conducted it. Re has several times been favored by election to office and in his various public duties has proven himself capable, faithful and resourceful. In 1886 he was elected mayor and served for one year when he resigned to become postmaster in 1887, receiving his appointment during President Cleveland's administration. In 1892 he was again elected mayor but resigned in 1894 to again become postmaster under a second appointment from President Cleveland. He held that office altogether for seven years, carefully systematizing the work and giving a public-spirited administration of the affairs connected with the position. He has always taken an active interest in the city's welfare and his cooperation in many movements has been largely conducive to the general good. He was secretary of the Board of Trade and is now secretary of DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 699 the Citizens Civic Club, in which connection he put forth earnest labor in support of all those things which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride. Mr. Kinder is a thirty-second degree Mason and takes a great interest in the craft. His membership is with Minerva Lodge, No. 98, F. & A. M. ; Trinity Chapter, No. 44, R. A. M., in which he occupies an official position ; Rees Council, R. & S. M. ; and Dayton Consistory, S. P. R. S. He likewise belongs to Miamisburg Lodge, No. 44, K. P. Politically he has always been a democrat and his work in behalf of the party makes him one of its leaders. He is a member of the Methodist church, is one of the church trustees and has served for several terms as Sunday school superintendent. His influence is ever on the side of progress and improvement, of reform and advancement and at the same time he is a capable business man who is not only publishing a paper creditable to the city but also has a finely equipped printing office and is conducting a large job printing business. SAMUEL HARRISON MILLER. Samuel Harrison Miller, who as secretary of the Harshman Improvement Company, has charge of the firm's land in Montgomery county and also the supervision of the Miller estate—a large tract located in Greene, Clark and Champaign counties, Ohio—was born October 22, 1843, in Lebanon, Ohio, the son of Abraham and Susannah (Downey) Miller. The father's parents were of German descent and came to Ohio from Virginia. In the latter state Abraham Miller was born, received his education, and was married, though he was still a young man when he came to Ohio. He was a mechanic by trade and settled near Lebanon. Samuel Harrison Miller was the seventh in a family of twelve children, his brothers being Hamilton, Jacob, William, George, John and Lewis. He began his education in the school of Lebanon but after the death of his parents went to Cincinnati, where he finished his schooling. For his first business experience he went to Pendleton, Ohio, where he engaged in railroading up to the outbreak of the Civil war, when he responded to the call for men to uphold the Union and enlisted in the Twelfth Ohio Infantry. He served in the one hundred days' service with the Army of the Potomac and through the latter part of the war, and it was always with honor and credit to himself, his company and his nation. Before the close of the war he went south, where he engaged in the United States military railroad business. Returning some time later to Ohio, he took a course in Nelson College, after which he again engaged in railroading, his run being between Dayton and Sandusky. A few years later he entered the employ of the Wabash Railway and made St. Louis his headquarters. From there he went to New Mexico, where, seeing so many opportunities at hand, he engaged in the cattle business, which demanded all his attention for the space of five years. Then again he returned to the railroad business, this time in Iowa, where he remained for eight years or until he came to Harshman, which he has made his home since 1898. On the 16th of April, 1878, Mr. Miller and Miss Alice Harshman were united in marriage. Mrs. Miller is the daughter of George W. and Virginia (Roher)