750 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY county, Ohio, and is a woman whose graces well fit her to be the consort of the man to whom the citizens of West Carrollton look as their leader. A man endowed with the power to lead others, of proved business acumen, and blessed with the ability to make and retain his friends, and by his own to strengthen their adherence to him, he continually demonstrates the wisdom of the people's choice of him as the head of their city. Those traits of character upon which they based their decision have not proved wanting ; the city has prospered under his direction, and should he continue in office bids fair to advance to yet highter state of urban effectiveness. OSCAR J. NEEDHAM. It is a splendid thing when an individual can show a record of continuous service with one house from youth to old age and while Oscar J. Needham is hardly yet in the prime of life he has for a third of a century been a representative of the Dayton Malleable Iron Company, of which he is now general superintendent. In his entire life there is not a single esoteric phase. His accomplishment represents the fit utilization of his innate powers and talents and the opportunities which have been presented. There was nothing unusual in these opportunities, they being such as come to every individual and in fact his start in business was much more humble and obscure than that in which many a youth finds himself on the outset of a business career. Mr. Needham was born in Dayton in February, 1864, and at the usual age entered the public schools but put aside his text-books when a lad of twelve years to earn his own living. He sought and secured the position of office boy with the Dayton Malleable Iron Company, which at that time had less than one hundred names upon its pay roll. One of his early aims was to become an efficient stenographer and operator of the typewriter and through private instruction and, wise use of all of his time, usually termed leisure, he soon became an expert in this line of work. One of the strong characteristics of Mr. Needham is that he has regarded no situation or position as final but rather as a stepping-stone to something higher and when he had become an expert stenographer and typewriter he began studying bookkeeping, pursuing .a thorough course in a commercial college. His willingness, thoroughness and adaptability naturally won to him the attention of those whom he served and about this time the president of the company, Robert C. Schenck, became greatly interested in Mr. Needham, seeing in him splendid aptitude for development in mechanical skill as well as wonderful executive ability in the handling of men. He, therefore, gave to Mr. Needham the chance to win for himself a place in the industrial world such as few men of his age occupy but the fact that success lies in the individual is again demonstrated in his career for though opportunity was offered he must himself possess the ability to use it. 'Further qualifying himself for responsibilities he pursued a course in architectural and free hand drawing and with characteristic zeal soon became master of the subject. Then followed an exhaustive DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 753 course in mechanical engineering and, recognizing the fact that malleable iron was not a science without the aid of chemistry, he took a course in this branch of learning under most competent instructors. While thus engaged he gained the possession of a private laboratory worth several thousand dollars and it has been of immense assistance to him as he has carried on experimental work in connection with his business interests. Thus with knowledge of stenography, typewriting, bookkeeping, of architectural and free hand drawing, of mechanical engineering and chemistry Mr. Needham was splendidly equipped to master every detail of the great and growing industry with which he is associated and to direct the labors of others. Today he is uniformly recognized by experts as a metallurgist of the highest rank. There is no department of the business of the Malleable Iron Company with which he is not familiar in principle and detaii. after Mr. Needham had finished his technical education in 1901 he was called upon to participate in an examination in metallurgy where there were one hundred and sixty-nine who took part in the test, being representatives from Italy, France, Germany, Russia, Australia, Canada and the United States. The board of examiners consisted of one representative from each country and there were four hundred questions to be answered covering all the commercial metals. The result of the examination was from twenty-one to one hundred and sixty-eight correct answers from all the other one hundred and sixty-eight contestants, but Mr. Needham answered correctly three hundred and ninety-nine out of the four hundred. The four hundredth question he refused to answer as it involved one of the vital secrets in his business. For this he holds a bronze medal—the only one ever issued. Mr. Needham took up the study of Polish, Hungarian, Macedonian and other foreign languages so that he might be able to converse in their own tongue with the many foreigners who seek employment in the great institution of which he is general superintendent. His linguistic powers undoubtedly explain in part the excellent discipline which he is enabled to maintain throughout the entire plant and it also makes plain in a measure the high esteem and respect entertained for Mr. Needham by all, from the humblest laborer to the president of the company. In 1888 Mr. Needham was married to Miss Ida Poole and unto them has been born a son, Robert. Mr. and Mrs. Needham hold membership in the Summit Street United Brethren church, with which he has long been identified, serving today as a member of its board of trustees. When the church had struggled along for years under a burden of heavy indebtedness Mr. Needham was persuaded to accept the position of treasurer and with characteristic zeal he attempted the management of its finances with the result that after two years the church was freed from its financial obligations for the first time in its history. Unlike mans active and successful business men Mr. Needham does not regard practical politics as something beyond the pale of his efforts. Indeed he believes it to be the duty of every true American citizen to labor for and support the principles which he deems most efficient as factors in good government. He is himself a stalwart republican and for several years was a member of the county central committee while when occasion has demanded he has supported his position by intelligent argument in the campaigns. In the spring of 1886 he was elected a member of the board of education, having the 754 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY distinction of being the youngest man ever chosen for any office in this city. His ability manifested in connection therewith has led to his retention in the office for a long period. He had military service as a member of the National Guard in early life, joining the Guard as a private but winning promotion to official rank during his seven years connection therewith. Fraternally he is a Scottish Rite Mason, a Knight Templar and a member of the Mystic Shrine and also belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Dayton Chamber of Commerce. Socially Mr. Needham is a delightful man to know. Quiet and unassuming in demeanor with the desire to do justice to all men, his many sterling traits of character have won for him a large circle of friends. Beginning life's battle at the age of twelve years with no capital save courage, energy and determination, he has succeeded in gaining a place in the front rank among the leading and successful residents of his native city while his record is an indication of the fact, which many seem to doubt, that prosperity and an honored name may be won simultaneously. LEIGH H. SPOHN. The only store in Mad River township is that which was opened fifteen years ago in Harshman by Leigh H. Spohn, the assistant postmaster of this town. July 23, 1864, was the date of Mr. Spohn's birth and his parents, Joshua and Margaret (Broadstone) Spo.hn were living in Xenia, Ohio, when this son was born to them. Joshua Spohn came from Maryland, the home of his parents, Joshua and Maggie (Kellar) Spohn. The Kellars were an old Maryland family, though some of them came to Ohio. They are all people of considerable education and local prominence, one of Mrs. Spohn's brothers having been the first president of Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio. Members of this branch of the family are still living in that town, where they are well known for the part they play in local affairs. When Joshua Spohn, Sr., came to Ohio the first time he was alone. After a year's stay here returned to his home, making the whole journey on horseback. With the gold on his person to pay for the farm he had selected he again came to Ohio, where for two years he battled with the hardships of a new country. At the end of this period he had so conquered his environment that a home, rude though it must have been, was ready for the reception of his family. So he made the journey to Maryland once more, on the same old gray mare he had used on the previous trip and brought his wife and children to his new home. He was the first of the Spohn family to come to this part of the country, and the little farm on which he 'first located is still known as the old Spohn homestead. His son, Joshua Spohn, the father of Leigh H. Spohn, was born in Middletown City, Maryland, May 15, 1820. He was but a small boy when his parents came to this state and might be said to have grown up with the country. He early turned his attention to farming and in 1860 came to Montgomery county and settled on a farm on the Brandt pike, which is known as the Spohn farm in this locality. He died September 20, 1870, leaving his widow with six small children to provide for and rear. Mrs. DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 755 Spohn survived her husband by nearly thirty years, her death not occurring until February 8, '900. Leigh H. Spohn was the youngest of this family left fatherless, John, William, Charles, Susan and James being those who had preceded his entrance into the, world. During the years that he attended school he also worked on the farm, learning in this way the great value of the thrift and industry and to make the best use of the opportunities that presented themselves. In his early manhood he worked in Dayton, where he started to learn the machinist's trade. This, however, did not prove to his liking and he forsook it to go into the flour business. After three years he decided to make another change and opened his present general store. This is a very complete one of its kind ; for in connection with it Mr. Spohn has a meat market and a refrigerating plant, in which he makes all his own ice. A good gasoline engine is also one of his assets. On the 1st of May, 1890, Mr. Spohn was united in marriage to Miss Emriette Meyer, the postmistress of Harshman and the daughter of Carl Frederick and Dorathea Augusta (Reinhold) Meyer, both natives of Germany. The father was born in Grimmitzschan, Saxony, September 7, 1843, and the mother in Gustrow, Schwerin, Mecklenburg, January 16, 1841. Mr. Meyer is now living in Canada, but spent many years of his life in Ohio, where he was a cigar manufacturer. He was likewise the owner of a three hundred and twenty-acre farm, but has now turned over the management of it to his son. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Spohn : Victor K., who graduated from the Steele high school of Dayton in the spring of 1909 ; Paul 0., who has just completed his second year at that school ; Ruth, deceased ; and Ethel, who is attending the school in Harshman but looks .forward to finishing his education in Dayton. The family belong to the Lutheran church and are prominent in all church affairs. That another store has not been opened up in Mad River township bespeaks the satisfaction with which the people of this locality regard Mr. Spdhn's efforts to gratify all their wants. He keeps an up-to-date, fresh stock, as complete as can be, always on hand ; is most courteous in his reception of visitors and assidious in procuring for them, at whatever inconvenience to himself, that which they may desire. In all his transactions he has been found. honorable and generous, so that there is every reason why he should retain the confidence and good-will of the community, that has been his for so many years. ADAM GILBERT. Adam Gilbert, president of the Farmers & Citizens Savings Bank at Germantown, Ohio, was born on the old Gilbert homestead, in Jackson township, Montgomery county, July 18, 1854, and is the son of Jesse and Hannah (Swinehart) Gilbert. The family is of remotely German origin, and the first of those to come to this country made their home in the wilderness of Frederick county, Maryland, where many of the name attained distinction. The Ohio family may be traced back to George Gilbert, whose children, Adam, David, James and Isaac, were all born in 756 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Maryland, where George himself lived and died. Adam Gilbert, son of George Gilbert and the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in Frederick county, Maryland, February 5, 1800. He was reared a farmer and married Catherine Diffenbaugh, a native of the same county and the daughter of Henry and Catherine Diffenbaugh, also of German origin. To Adam Gilbert and wife were born ten children : Jesse, Eleanor, John, Jane, Nelson, Mary, Joshua, Julia A., Louisa and Rebecca. The farm of Adam Gilbert was situated in Carroll county, Maryland, which county was cut off from Frederick and Baltimore counties after the birth of Jesse Gilbert, and embraced some two hundred acres, lying near Westminster, which was Adam Gilbert's home until his death in 1865. He had been a member of the Reformed church and during the later years of his life was a strong republican and a stanch supporter of the Union during the Civil war. Jesse Gilbert, the father of the Adam Gilbert of this sketch, received a fair common-school education and was a strong and rugged boy who did a great deal of useful work on the home farm. At about twenty-two years of age he came to Ohio, in 1848, locating in Jackson township, Montgomery county. Here he married Mrs. Hannah Mullendore, the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Swinehart and the widow of Daniel Mullendore. Peter Swinehart was of German descent and a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, though he was one of the early pioneers of ,Jackson township, having entered a tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres, on which Jesse Gilbert lived. Mr. and Mrs. Swinehart were the parents of eight children. They were strict members of the Dunkard or German Baptist church and were highly respected in the community where they lived. Mrs. Hannah Mullendore Gilbert by her previous marriage was the mother of five children : Anna Maria ; Josiah, who died young ; Leona ; and two others who died in early youth. Upon their marriage Jesse Gilbert and his wife settled upon the Swinehart homestead, which they did much to clear and improve, bringing it to its present state of fertility and productiveness. He prospered in his undertakings and at the time of his death was possessed of three hundred acres of land excellently adapted to the varied farming he conducted. In politics he was formerly an old line whip, but in his later years affiliated with the democratic party. He was distinguished for his public spirit and the aid he gave to all movements designed for the public good. Mrs. Gilbert was called away February 13, 1880, and her husband was laid by her side in the Twin Valley cemetery twenty-three years later. Both were consistent members of the Dunkard church and died within its folds, deeply mourned by a large number of people who respected them for their fine traits of character. Adam Gilbert received his early education in Jackson township, but was compelled to change his school on account of there not being a bridge over Big Twin creek and was transferred to the school of German township, in which he completed his education. He was a diligent student and a great reader and his library is remarkable both for its size and the careful selection of the books which it contains. Up to within the past few years he has always been a farmer, working for his father during his youth, and at the age of twenty-four starting out for himself, assuming the charge of the home place at the time of his mother's death. When Mr. Gilbert came to Germantown in 1904, he took an active part in the reorganization of the bank here and was elected its president. To it he devoted the most DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 757 of his time and the flourishing condition in which it is at present is largely due to his exertions. On the 9th of December, 1879, Mr. Gilbert was married to Miss Elizabeth Moyer, the daughter of Peter and Keziah (Eslinger) Moyer. The father was a farmer in Preble county, Ohio, and the mother is still living at the advanced age of ninety-three on the old home place. To Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert were born two children : Jesse ; and Pearl, the wife of Herbert A. Shank. A man of sterling integrity, Mr. Gilbert has made a place for himself in business circles of Germantown that might be envied by anyone. The bank whose destinies he guides is one of the concerns that make for the stability of the city and its fair name. In the social life also he is known, and the Gilbert home on Cherry street is one of the very prettiest homes of the city, in which a gracious hospitality is ever extended. A. M. DODDS. The life history of A. M. Dodds is another illustration of the fact that it is the young men who are today controlling the veins and arteries of trade and traffic. His connection with commercial circles is that of president of the Dayton Automobile Company. He was born in this city, August 16, 1881, and is a representative of one of the honored pioneer families of this portion of the state, his great-grandfather having come from Pennsylvania when Montgomery county was still a frontier district, sparsely inhabited and giving little promise of rapid future development. His son, John Dodds, was born in Montgomery county, February 13, 1822, was reared in Germantown and in the course of years became an active and valued representative of business interests in Dayton, serving for many years as president of the John Dodds Manufacturing Company. His son Orion Dodds was born in Dayton, June 10, 1850, and, becoming connected with the John Dodds Manufacturing Company, was for a long period general manager of the business. He was also president of the Dayton board of police commissioners for three years and was actively connected with various movements looking to the benefit and progress of the city. His death occurred September 14, 1904, and was the occasion of deep and Widespread regret. At the usual age A. M. Dodds entered the public schools, pursuing his studies through successive grades until he entered upon a course in the Miami University at Oxford, Ohio, where he won his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1902. Returning at once to Dayton he was here engaged in the wholesale millinery business for three years and, in 1906 when the Dayton Automobile Company was organized, he was elected president and general manager. He is thus giving his attention to the careful direction of its interests, manifesting marked executive force and keen discrimination in control of its affairs. He is also a director in the Winters National Bank. When age conferred upon Mr. Dodds the right of franchise he enlisted in republican ranks and has since marched under the party banners. He is prominent in Masonry, belonging to the Knight Templar commandery and to the Consistory 758 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY and is also connected with the Mystic Shrine. He likewise belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and to the Owls Lodge, while his religious faith is indicated in his membership in the First United Brethren church. As a representative of one of the oldest families of the county he is well known and his life record is in harmony with that of an honored ancestry that through successive generations has been closely allied with all the progressive movements relating to the material, intellectual and moral progress of the community. JOHN THOMAS FOUTS. John Thomas Fouts, a retired farmer, residing in Germantown, but owning a fine farm of seventy-seven acres on the west side of the Oxford road, about five miles from the city, is the son of Jacob J. and Sarah J. (Bailey) Fouts. The great-grandfather on the paternal side came to Ohio from Lancaster county, Pennsylviania, accomplishing the journey by wagon. He was the first settler in this part of the county and cleared the land upon which the old homestead was built and stands to this day. He married Miss Elizabeth Stubbs and their son John was born and reared on the old home place. Later he engaged in its operation and was successful beyond the average. John Fouts wedded Miss Mary Judy and they were the parents of Jacob J. Fouts, the father of the subject of this sketch. He also was reared on the old home place on which he had been born and was educated in the public schools of this county. He was a man who was dependent upon himself for his advancement and soon won a foremost place among the farmers of Montgomery county, taking an active part in all matters that concerned the community. He was the father of three children, Thomas, William and U. S. Sarah J. (Bailey) Fouts, the mother of our subject, is the daughter of Thomas and Ann (Denise) Bailey. Her father came here from Clinton. county and was one of the early settlers in this locality, where he followed his trade of miller. When he located here he did not have any money, but by hard work and careful management gained for himself a comfortable income. Eleven children were born to him : William and Abe, both deceased ; Samuel, who is still living ; Sidney, deceased : Sarah J. ; Anna Maria, deceased ; George ; Elizabeth, deceased ; Rachel and Kate. John Thomas Fouts received his early training for life in the common schools and at home under the guidance of his parents. From his youth he has worked on the farm, even during his school period, and has made the best use of the opportunities afforded him. Until advancing years and a sufficient income suggested the wisdom of retiring from active pursuit, his farms were always well cultivated, showing the thrift and diligence of their owner. His crops were plentiful and the returns of his labor good. On the 31st of January, 1882, Mr. Fouts was united in marriage to Miss Nettie Whallon, the daughter of George and Sarah (Long) Whallon. William Whallon, her paternal grandfather, was the first of the family to come to this county from New Jersey, his former home. His son, George Whallon, was born in Hamilton county, in 1826, and was a farmer and a mechanic. He died June 2, 1906, in the eightieth year of his age. To Mr. and Mrs. Fouts were born three DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 761 children, of whom Berdella and an infant are deceased. Grace Ethel, the eldest, is the wife of Ernst Slifer. The family is identified with church work, the lives of its various members evincing a most Christian spirit. The Fouts home is situated on the corner of Market and Walnut streets. Mr. Fouts has had little taste for organizations of any kind, or, in fact, for any diversions that called him beyond the bosom of his family and from the pursuit of his calling. To this fact may indeed be credited the success of the years in his farming, and also the happiness of his home. He is, however, a good neighbor, and has his friends who wish him a continued enjoyment of many years of ease. GEORGE P. MICHAEL. George P. Michael, who was one of the prosperous farmers of Montgomery county before he retired from active life and took up his residence in Germantown, owns one hundred and seventy-three acres of excellent farm land, in two distinct farms, the smaller one, of seventy acres, lying in Jefferson township. He was born in Maryland, December 9, 1834, and is the son of John and Charlotte (Dull) Michael. John Michael came here from Maryland, accompanied his own family and also his father, Peter Michael, who had retired from active participation in farm life, and settled first near Sunbury. Later he moved to the land he purchased near Liberty, Jefferson township, upon which he lived and reared his family. There were eight children born to John Michael and his wife, all of those surviving being residents of this county. They are Rowena, George P., John, Mary, Wesley and Enos. Cornelius, the eldest, and Jacob, the fifth child, have passed away. George P. Michael received his education in the schools of this county, and has all his life been devoted to farming interests, assisting in the work that was carried on at home from the time he was able to perform the smallest tasks, until, having attained his full growth, he could do a man's work in the fields. He owned large tracts, which were under a high state of cultivation, were well improved and bore witness to the thrift, industry and good management of their owner. Having made a marked success of the work to which he had given the best years of his life, Mr. Michael felt justified in committing the greater responsibilities to another and enjoying the rest and comforts that were his due. Mr. Michael has been married twice, the bride of his first union having been Miss Sarah Myers, to whom he was wedded in February, 1856. To Mr. and Mrs. Michael have been born eight children and several grandchildren have also been granted them. Ella, the eldest, is the wife of Martin Young, and the mother of Etta ; Bessie ; Ruth, deceased ; Russell ; and Esther. Noah, the second in the family, has died. Mary Ann is at home. Lucinda is the wife of Clinton Mathias and has six children : Bertha ; Walter ; Adah ; Fay and Ray, who are twins ; and Virgie Emma, the fifth of the family, married George Weaver. Amanda married Perry Forrest and is the mother of Maud, Haldon, Leta and Robert. Perry married Miss Leota Rawheat, who has borne him two sons, Waldo and Ralph. Charles, the youngest of Mr. Michael's children by his first wife, takes full charge of the interests of the family. He was born on the farm in Jackson township, July 25, 1870. 762 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Upon completing his education in the schools here, he went to Otterbein University and then engaged in teaching. He had, however, always been identified with farming interests from his childhood days and along with his professional work conducted a profitable farm in Preble county. Of late his time has been fully occupied in caring for the many agricultural and other concerns of the family, handed over to him when his father retired from active life. He was married on the 16th of February, 1904, to Miss Dora Fadler, the daughter of John F. and Mary (Saur) Fadler, and they now have one child, Dorothy. He belongs to the United Brethren church and is a member of the Knights of Pythias. When Mr. Michael entered the matrimonial state the second, time, his bride was Miss Mary Rauch, the daughter of Peter and Anna (Bowen) Rauch. The marriage was celebrated on the 7th of December, 1876, and has been blessed with three children ; Jesse, who married Mary Francis ; George Oscar, who married Jennie Lawrence and is the father of a son, George L. ; and Albert, who married Laura Wolpers. Mr. Michael is a consistent member of the United Brethren church and is at present a trustee of the congregation. In the many years that have been allotted to him he has proved his right to the high regard in which he is held among those who have come in contact with him and to the good fortune that attended the period of his activity. AARON E. SLOUGH. Aaron E. Slough, a successful farmer of Miami township, Montgomery county, has the reputation of being one of the best tobacco raisers in his county. He lives upon and works the land of Mrs. John Treon, of Miamisburg, which he has advanced to a high degree of productiveness. He was born May 31, 1854, the son of Christopher and Susan (Swar) Slough. The former, who has been dead four years, was born and reared in Springfield, Ohio, his parents having come to this state from Pennsylvania. Following in his father's footsteps he took up the work of a farmer, in which he was very successful, and when he came to this county he became one of its most respected agriculturists. Our subject is a descendant of Colonel Mathias Slough, who was the first colonel appointed by General Washington when he became commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary war. Aaron E. Slough was reared at home under the guidance of wise parents and received his education in the common schools here. so that Miami township can claim full credit for the lessons taught and experiences gained which made possible his advancement in his line of work. On the 15th of January, 1876, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Slough and Miss Catherine G. Mount, the daughter of John and Hannah (Vandever) Mount, who were very prominent in farming circles in this county. For only a little over nine years were the couple permitted to traverse together life's road, for Mrs. Slough was taken from this world October 31, 1885. She had borne a family.of five children, four of whom are living useful lives. They were: May, the wife of Clayton Small and the mother of Delphine and Nellie ; DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 763 Susie, the Wife of Milton West and the mother of two daughters, Helen G. and Grace ; Emma, who married J. M. Robinson ; Bert E., deceased ; and Walter Roy, who married Miss C. Eckhart, who has borne him a son, Bert. Although so much of his time is given to the cares of the farm, Mr. Slough still finds hours to spend in the company of his fraternal brothers of the Knights of Pythias, to whom he is ever most loyal and in whose welfare he is ever most interested. His allegiance in religious matters is given to the Presbyterian church, and he takes an active part in all its affairs. He is the owner of a bible which has been in the Slough family for two hundred and fifty years. Many are the friends he has made in' this county, and all who know him can speak highly of his industry, thrift and good principles. HENRY W. KAISER. Henry W. Kaiser is numbered among the capable men who constitute the board of review in Dayton. Throughout the period of his connection with public service his record has won the approval of all citizens who have the good of the community at heart for at all times his official duties have been discharged with promptness and fidelity for with him the welfare of the community and advancement of general progress are placed before partisanship or personal aggrandizement. He started upon life's journey in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 21, 1850. He is of German lineage and was educated in both German and English while pursuing his course in the public schools. He remained a resident of Cincinnati to the age of twenty-five years and after putting aside his text-books he devoted some years to learning and following the trade of 'saddle covering. On the 1st of November, 1875, Mr. Kaiser arrived in Dayton, coming to this city as city agent for the Fleischmann Yeast Company, which he thus represented for thirty-two years and two months or until 1907. This fact stand; in incontrovertible evidence of ability and fidelity. No higher testimonial of his loyalty and capable service could be given. In the meantime he had become somewhat active in-in politicalrcles, being first called to office in 1893 when he was elected a commissioner of Montgomery county for a term of three years. He filled that office so satisfactorily that the public expressed its endorsement in his reelection and he remained in office for six years and eight months, owing to an extension of the term through a process of law. In 1907 he was elected a member of the Dayton board of review and is now acting in that capacity. His interest in the general welfare and his desire for continued progress in all matters of citizenship make him one of the most, reliable officials of the city. On the 17th of September, 1874, in Cincinnati, Mr. Kaiser was married to Miss Emma Rheinhardt, who was born in that city October 17, 1855, and was a daughter of Frederick Rheinhardt. Three children were born of this marriage : Harry F., Maude N. and J. Edward. The wife and mother died December 22, 1895, and her loss was deeply mourned by many who appreciated and enjoyed her friendship. 764 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Mr. Kaiser is a member of St. John's German Evangelical Lutheran church and is well known in various fraternal relations, belonging to the Masonic lodge, the Knights of Pythias, the Maccabees, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, in which he has been honored with high office, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and Garfield Club. He has long maintained an unassailable reputation as a business man and his official record is in harmony therewith. JOHN L. CARTER, M. D. Dr. John L. Carter, a young physician of West Carrollton, was born in the town of Sabina, Clinton county, Ohio, in the year 1872. He is the son of Joseph and Margaret (Hall) Carter, who were numbered among the prominent farmers of that county. His grandfather, John Carter, established the family in this part of the country. He was the son of Irish parents, who when they came to America took up their abode in North Carolina. From there John Carter came as a young man to Ohio and took up a considerable tract of land in Clinton county, which has since been known as the Carter homestead. He married Miss Anna Millikin, who was the mother of Joseph Carter. Like his father the latter was a farmer and an owner of land. He lived upon the home place, on which he had been born, until he put aside the active cares of life, and retired to Sabina, Ohio, where he died on the 27th of November, 1904, and lies buried. Two children were granted to him and his devoted wife : Harvey H. and John L., both of whom survive. He was a man of prominence in the concerns of the locality in which he lived and for many years he was a pike contractor. John L. Carter received his early education in the common schools of Clinton county. He soon decided upon medicine as the profession to which he would devote himself and pursued his school work with that end in view. He prepared first for the medical school in Sabina, and from there went to the Ohio Medical College, entering in 1892. Three years later he received his physician's degree and started upon the practice of his profession. For two years he practiced at Selma, Ohio, and then came to West Carrollton, which has been his home and the scene of his labors ever since. He was physician for the Friend Paper Company ten years, and also surgeon for the Cincinnati Northern Traction Company. In 1895 Dr. Carter was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Jessie Watt, the daughter of John and Refayma Watt, of Welleston, Ohio, where the father was furnace superintendent for one of the companies that the town supports. But one child has been born to Dr. and Mrs. Carter, a daughter, Winnifred, who is of school age. As a member of the Ohio State Medical Association and the national society, besides the association formed by the physicians of the county, Dr. Carter keeps abreast of the times in his profession and assists in promoting its interests. His professional duties require the greater share of his time, yet he is not infrequently present at the meeting of the several lodges, to which he gives his fraternal support and in whose interests he is a zealous worker. The West Carrollton Lodge, No. 826, of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows numbers him among its members, DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 765 and he is a Scottish Rite Mason. In the twelve years that Dr. Carter has ministered to the physical needs of the people of West Carrollton he has built up a practice of considerable size, and a reputation which is the result of his devotion to his profession and the welfare of his patients. As a physician his opinion is held in regard, and as a man and friend he is respected and admired. HOWARD R. KLEPINGER. Howard R. Klepinger, county surveyor of Montgomery county, was born in Madison township, this county, May 25, 1883, and was reared amid rural surroundings, working in the fields through the summer months, while the winter season was devoted to the acquirement of an education. He graduated from the high school of his native township at the age of fifteen years, but ambitious to secure a more advanced education he pursued a preparatory course in a school at North Manchester, Indiana, and later entered the Ohio Northern University, at Ada, Ohio, there pursuing an engineering course, from which he was graduated in 1900 with the degree of civil engineer. His life has since been devoted to the practice of his profession, which he began in Dayton immediately following his graduation. He has been accorded a gratifying patronage and won public recognition of his ability in his election to the office of county surveyor, in November, 1906. He has made a very creditable record for one of his years and his ability argues well for substantial advance in the future. Aside from his profession he is to some extent connected with business interests, being vice president and director of the Montgomery County Building & Loan Association. Mr. Klepinger is interested in all that pertains to the welfare and progress of the community and cooperates in all movements and measures for the city's welfare that are instituted by the Chamber of Commerce, of which he is a member. In fraternal lines he is connected with the Knights of Pythias, the Junior Order of the United American Mechanics, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Masonic fraternity, in which he has taken the degrees of the Scottish Rite. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he is one of the active workers in its ranks, belonging to the Garfield Club and otherwise promoting its interests as far as lies within his power. He fears not that laborious attention to detail so necessary to success and in all that he does is actuated by a laudable ambition to perform his duties in such a way as will promote his business interests in both volume and importance. GEORGE W. MILLER. George W. Miller, a most enterprising and prosperous agriculturist of Jackson township, is numbered among the worthy native sons of Montgomery county, his birth having occurred in Madison township on the 29th of February, 1864. His parents, the Rev. George and Catherine (Wampler) Miller, celebrated their 766 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY marriage in 1853, the ceremony taking place in the vicinity of Dayton, Ohio. The paternal grandparents were Benjamin and Elizabeth (Bowser) Miller, while the mother of our subject was a daughter of Philip and Catherine (Royer) Wampler. George W. Miller, of this review, is one of a family of ten children, the others being as follows : Benjamin, Philip, Anna, William, Edward, Jesse, Ira, Ezra and Lizzie. On the 15th of February, 1891, George W. Miller was married to Miss Carrie Calhoun, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Elizabeth (Runs) Calhoun, of Madison township. By this union there are three children, namely : Edith, born in 1893 ; Hugh, whose birth occurred in 1894 ; and Russell, who was born in 1898. Throughout his entire business career Mr. Miller has been identified with the pursuit of general farming and by reason of his untiring industry and unremitting energy has gained a measure of success that entitles him to recognition among the most substantial, progressive and representative citizens of the community. He has an extensive circle of warm friends in the county where he has always resided, for the principles that have actuated his life have been such as to win for him the highest esteem and good will of his fellow townsmen. ERIE J. WEAVER. While his experience in length of years is by no means equal to that of many members of the Dayton bar, Erie J. Weaver has already attained a reputation in the courts of law which many an older member of the profession might well envy, and is making continuous advancement so that his associates feel no hesitancy in prophesying for him a successful future in which he will reach a foremost place as a representative of the legal fraternity in this city. He was born near Brookville, Montgomery county, January 17, 1872, and pursuing his education through successive grades of the public school was graduated from the high school with the class of 1891. His more specifically literary course was pursued in Wittenberg College at Springfield, Ohio, of which he is an alumnus of 1895. Determining upon the practice of law as a life work he began reading in the office and under the direction of Carr, Allaman & Kennedy, of Dayton, and later entered the Cincinnati Law School from which he was graduated in 1897. Returning to this city he entered upon practice here, first in connection with the firm in whose office he had read law, but since January, 1908, by himself. His understanding of legal principles is comprehensive, his application usually correct, while in argument he is clear and cogent and in his reasoning sound and logical. He won 'the oratorical prize in the Cincinnati Law School in 1897 and his gift of oratory is one of the salient features in his successful law work, enabling him always to hold the attention of court or jury as he presents his side of any litigated cause. Mr. Weaver is well known as an active and influential member of the democratic party and does all in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of democracy. He has served as secretary of the Democratic City Central Com- DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 769 mittee, and has twice, in 1897 and again in 1901, been the candidate of his party for the state legislature. In September, 19o2, in Dayton, Mr. Weaver was united in marriage to Miss Ida M. Brandt and they have two daughters, Louise E. and Alice M. Mr. Weaver belongs to the Alpha Tau Omega, is a member of the board of directors of Wittenberg College, his religious faith is indicated in his membership in the First English Lutheran church and his interest in public welfare is manifest in his active cooperation in many movements for the general good. JOHN GLASER. John Glaser, a prominent farmer of Wayne township, Montgomery county, lives upon the one hundred and ninety acres of land he owns in this township, just off the Brandt pike and half way between that thoroughfare and the Troy pike, and about six miles northeast of Dayton. He was born in Mad River township January 21, 1852, and is the son of Anton and Catherine (Hotop) Glaser. Anton Glaser was the first of his family to come to this country from Germany. He was but a young man when he came here and located first in Wayne township. He had learned his trade as a butcher, as well as having received his education in the land of his birth. For a time after coming here he followed his trade and then took up farming. From the day that he set foot upon the soil of this continent, he was dependent upon his own efforts alone for his success in life. By his own exertion he amassed a considerable fortune and when he died was accounted a man of means for that period. He was the father of nine children. The three eldest, Joseph, Anton and Francis, have passed away. The others, Mary, John, Louise, Catharine and Emma, are all living in or near this county. Franklin, the eighth of the family, however, lives in Greene county. The mother's parents came here from Germany and were prominent farmers. John Glaser has always lived in this section of the state, but he received his education for the most part in Greene county. He went first to the union school in Booth township, then to Dayton, and subsequently to Trinity. In Greene county he completed his education. Early in his life he devoted himself to that phase of life which was to be his vocation in after years—farming. In this he has been very successful and a few years ago he commenced raising and selling live stock. Though the latter is at present scarcely more than an initial venture, through the care Mr. Glaser has given to it, it promises to reward his efforts as well as the general farming which has been his life work. To many of the people of the city of Dayton, Mr. Glaser is well and favorably known, for he takes his produce to that city to be marketed. On the 15th of October, 1888, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Glaser and Miss Emma Naudascher, the daughter of August and Elizabeth (Knier) Naudascher, who were residents of Dayton, where Mr. Naudascher was a merchant. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Glaser. Grace, the eldest, is the wife of John Keechle, who is at present the manager of Mr. Glaser's farm, and they have two children, Luella E. and John R. Minnie has finished her school 770 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY course and lives at home. Esther is the wife of Orien Kline, a farmer of Clark county. Carl married Miss Bessie Shoup, who has borne him a son, Marvin C. Edna, the youngest of the family, is through school and lives at home. The family are members of the church .of the Holy Rosary, north of Dayton, and are prominent in all of its work. Besides being a successful farmer, Mr. Glaser is a man prominent in public affairs, who has been tried through many years of service. Twenty years . ago he was elected to the office of township treasurer and has held the position ever since, fulfilling his duties to the entire satisfaction of his constituents and his fellow townspeople. In all, his dealings he has been found to be a man of sterling integrity, as those who have had dealings with him in the city of Dayton can also testify and has ever evinced, commendable spirit in the service of the public. ALBERT SITTEL WEUSTHOFF. Albert Sittel Weusthoff, treasurer of 'the Young Men's Christian. Association and general bookkeeper of the Fourth National Bank, whose life interests are largely indicated in these connections, was born in 1858 in the city which is still his home. His father, George H. Sittel, was born in Alsfeld, Germany, in 1815, and grew to manhood in that country, being married in Darmstadt on the 15th of November, 1846, to Miss Anna Thomas, whose birth. occurred in Worms, Germany, in 1812. On the 4th of September, 1847, they came to the United States and after residing in Cincinnati for a short time removed to Dayton; where the father died August 10, 1862. The mother Was again married in this city on the 16th of December, 1863, becoming the wife of William W. Weusthoff, who was also a native of Germany,, born in Braunschweig, May 14, 1820. He emigrated to the new world October 4, 1849, and also made his home in Cincinnati for a short time, but in 1851 came to Dayton, where he was engaged in the drug business- for many years. On the 30th of January, 1875, our subject was legally adopted by his stepfather and his name changed to that of Weusthoff, as were the other members of the family. There were five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Sittel, namely : Louis, deceased ; Fanny, a resident of Dayton ; Otto, deceased; Albert, of this review ; and Hugo, of New York. The youthful days of Albert Sittel Weusthoff were passed in Dayton and the public schools afforded him his early educational privileges, which -were supplemented by a course in Miami Commercial College of Dayton, from which he was. graduated with the class of 1870.. Having thus qualified for a commercial career he entered the dry-goods store of Rike, Hassler & Company in the capacity of clerk, remaining for seven years, a fact which indicates his loyalty to the house and his thorough reliability in that connection. On the expiration of that period he became identified. with banking interesfs, spending one year as bookkeeper in the Dayton Savings Bank, 'after which he entered the Winters National Bank in the capacity of bookkeeper, continuing with that institution for a quarter of 'a century. In 1905 he went to the Fourth National Bank as general bookkeeper and has since been identified with that institution. His long connection with the DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 771 banking interests of the city stands as indisputable evidence of certain facts in his career—his accuracy, carefully systematized labors and unequivocal loyalty to the corporation which he represents. In 1885 in this city Mr. Weusthoff was married to Miss Sarah Elizabeth LaRose, a daughter of Louis LaRose, now deceased, and they have two children, Frances and Samuel LaRose. Mrs. Weusthoff was one of a family of five children, the others being : Helen B., the wife of Eugene Wuichet, of Dayton ; Samuel L., also a resident of Dayton ; Mary H., the wife of Frank Wuichet ; and William H., deceased. Mr. Weusthoff is a republican in his political views, interested in the growth and success of the party because he believes that it contains the best elements of good government. Regarding his religious obligations as a foremost and never as a secondary consideration in his life, he has long been an active worker in the First Lutheran church, in which he was deacon for sixteen years and is now an elder. For at least fifteen years he has also been closely associated officially with the interests of the Young Men's Christian Association, in which he has continuously held and is still holding the office of treasurer. His life has at all times been guided by high and honorable principles, commending him to the confidence, trust and good will of his fellowmen, and no citizen of Dayton is more thoroughly respected than he. ANTON AMANN. Anton Amann is numbered among the young men of foreign birth who have sought the freedom and appreciation of this great and growing western country, realizing that its business opportunities are superior to those offered in the older countries of Europe. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, for in Dayton he has found a fruitful field of labor and is conducting a successful insurance business. He was born in Austria, January 25, 1870, and was there reared and educated, coming to America in July, 1890. He was induced to make Dayton his destination, from the fact that he had relatives living in this city. When he arrived here he entered the employ of Philip A. Kemper, conducting a wholesale devotional store. There he remained for nine and a half years, proving his worth in a business way by his fidelity, enterprise and unfaltering activity. He next became connected with the Volks-Zeitung as city editor, his connection with the paper covering six years. On the expiration of that period he established a general insurance agency and has since carried on business in that field. Mr. Amann was married in Europe in 1890, to Miss Anna Duerst, and they have two children, Marie A. and Hans. Mr. Amann is a democrat, and while he exercises a quiet influence for the party he is not active as a campaign worker, nor does he seek office as a reward for party fealty, though he is now serving as notary public. He belongs to the Holy Trinity church and assisted in the organization of the League of German-American Societies of Montgomery county. He was made its secretary and so served for thirteen years, or until 1906. He is 772 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY now an honorary life member of that organization. He is also state secretary of the Central Ohio Saenger Bezirk. He is always interested in his fellow countrymen who seek, as he did, a home in the new world and has been quick to assist those who have made their way across the Atlantic and have become factors in the business life of Dayton. ANDREW J. KREHBIEL, M. D. Dr. Andrew J. Krehbiel, engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery in Dayton, was born in Cleveland, Ohio, October 12, 1850, and there remained to about the age of fifteen years, when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Cincinnati, Ohio. His education, begun in the schools of Cleveland, was continued in Cincinnati to the age of seventeen years, when he entered Dr. Bigler's office to take up the study of medicine. He supplemented his preliminary reading by a course in the Cleveland Homeopathic College, from which he was graduated in the class of 1871 and then located in Cincinnati where he remained for two years. On the expiration of that period he removed to Pomeroy, Ohio, where he resided until 1880 and then went to Des Moines, Iowa, where he continued for a year and a half. On the expiration of that period he returned to Cincinnati and soon afterward purchased a drug store at Mount Healthy, conducting business there for a year and a half. Since 1885 Dr. Krehbiel has been a resident of Dayton and for twenty-two years he was proprietor of a drug store here but in 1907 resumed the regular practice of medicine and is now giving his undivided attention to the profession. His knowledge of the drug trade and of the component parts and properties of all drugs in their relation to the human system constitute an important element in his successful work in his present field of labor. In 1870 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr, Krehbiel was married to Miss Louisa A. Kiefer, who died in Dayton in 1904, leaving three children : Charles J., Arthur A. and Frank W. Dr. Krehbiel has been a close student of the signs of the times, of the leading issues of political, economic and sociological problems of the day and as the result of his investigations is a socialist. His opinions are based upon comprehensive knowledge, whether in relation to the political situation or to any other phase of general interest and his support is always given on the side of reform, progress and improvement. ELMER E. GANSTER. Elmer E. Ganster, a highly respected business man of Dayton, now senior partner in the Ganster-Keller Coal Company, was born in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, in 1868. His youthful days were there passed to the age of nineteen years, during which time he attended the public schools, passing through consecutive grades until he was graduated from the high school with the class of 1894. He afterward went DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY - 773 to Wilmington, Delaware, where he secured a situation in the Pullman shops, remaining there for one year. He next removed to Richmond, Virginia, to take charge of the shops of the Richmond & Danville Railroad, continuing in that position for a year, after which he came to Dayton in 1889 and for a year was employed in the Barney & Smith Car Works. He next entered the employ of the Mathias Lumber Company in Dayton and his ability won his promotion from time to time, his responsibilities being continually increased until he was mane superintendent of the yard. On leaving the company after seven years' association therewith he embarked in business on his own account in 1898, turning his attention to the coal trade, in which he has since operated. Desirous of success he established his business upon a firm foundation of commercial integrity, unabating energy and unfaltering perseverance. Gradually the trade extended to substantial proportions and in October, 19o5, the Ganster-Keller Coal Company was incorporated. On the loth of April, 1890, Mr. Ganster was united in marriage in Dayton, Ohio, to Miss Katie R. Peters and they have a son and daughter : Carl W. and Florence L. Mr. Ganster belongs to the Masonic fraternity, to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and to the Modern Woodmen of America. His membership relations also extend to the Methodist Episcopal church, which finds him a worthy representative in that he regards religion not only as a matter. of Sabbath observance but as a rule for daily conduct. His political support is given to the republican party for he has made a close study of its principles, which he regards as the basis for sound and progressive government. Matters of municipal interest awaken his attention and he gives his support to all those things which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride. ALEXANDER M. PECK. Alexander M. Peck, who is known in Germantown and vicinity as a farmer and the sales agent for farm implements, was born in German township, Montgomery county, on the 14th of September, 184.8, a son of James and Phebe (Sneathen) Peck. The former came to Ohio from North Carolina, where he had learned and followed the distilling business, and for a considerable period after coming here operated a still. Alexander M. Peck grew to manhood at home and early became identified with the work of a farm, choosing it when choice was necessary as his vocation in life For his education and preparation in life he was dependent upon the schools of the locality and the guidance which his parents could give as the result of their love and experience. It was but two days after he had attained his majority, on the 16th of September, 1869, that Mr. Peck t0ok to himself the responsibilities of a wife and a home of his own, for on that day he was united in marriage to Sarah Smutz, the daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Smutz. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Peck : Frank, Hattie, Wilber, Alfred, Lonnie, Wesley and George. The family are members of the Reformed church, at the services of which they are regular attendants and with whose work they are closely identified. 774 - DAYTON AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY Besides his church interests and the work which consumes the hours-of the day, Mr. Peck finds time for the many meetings of the local lodges of the Masons and Odd Fell0ws. In both of these he is known as a man sincerely concerned for the welfare of his fraternal brothers and ever willing to exert himself in their behalf. Several years ago Mr. Peck saw an opportunity to increase his usefulness and his own means of revenue by becoming a salesman for a farm implement concern. In this phase of business, as in the pursuit of actual agriculture he has been very successful, for he is a man of principle, one who never shuns hard or difficult labor. He has in consequence the good will and respect of those who are his neighbors and his customers. GILBERT CONOVER. Gilbert Conover, who for the past eight years has capably served as trustee of Madison township, is the owner of a valuable farm of .forty acres situated on the east side of the old Liberty road, about two miles south of Trotwood. His birth occurred in Madison township, Montgomery county, on the 4th of August, 1860, his parents being William and Susan (Landis) Conover. Gilbert Conover, the paternal grandfather, spent his entire life in Pennsylvania, his wife passing away in that state in early womanhood. William Conover, the father of our subject, was married in Montgomery county, coming here as a young man from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. His family numbered five children, namely : Mary, Lydia, Gilbert, Ella and Abraham. On the home farm in this county Gilbert Conover spent the days of his b0yhood and youth, dividing his time between the acquirement of an education in the schools of Madison township and the labor required of an orphan boy. At different times he has been engaged in carpentering and in the sawmill business, while for seven years he conducted a dairy, finding a ready sale for his products in Dayton. His attention is now given to general farming interests and in all of his undertakings he has met with that measure of prosperity which is ever the reward of earnest, persistent labor when guided by sound judgment and keen discrimination. On the 6th of November, 1879, Mr. Conover was united in marriage to Miss Ida Bell Stebleton, a daughter of Jesse and Lydia (Rike) Stebleton. The father, an agriculturist by occupation, came here from Berks county, Pennsylvania, while the mother, a daughter of Adam Rike, is a representative of an old and well known family of Montgomery county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Conover have been born seven children, as follows.: Bertha, the wife of Henry Urmey, by whom she has two children, Jesse and Perry ; Elzina, who is the wife of Daniel. Keeney and has two children, John and Clarence ; Jesse, who wedded Miss Bertha Mil, ler and has two children, Gilbert and Thelma ; John, who is deceased ; Norman, who is a graduate of the Trotwood high school and is now preparing to teach ; Abraham, who has also passed away ; and Ida, who is attending school. In his political views Mr. Conover is a stalwart democrat and on that ticket was elected township trustee, in which position he has now served faithfully and efficiently for eight years. He and his family belong to the conservative branch