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BUTLER TOWNSHIP.

JAMES I. ANDERSON, steam-saw and planing mills, Vandalia, born in Butler Township January 23, 1836. His father, William Anderson, a native of Pennsylvania, emigrated to Ohio in 1811, and bought Government land at $1 per acre ; lived here all his life ; died November 23, 1867. James remained on the farm with his father until his death, where he removed to where we now find him, and engaged in the above-mentioned business. Has been in good standing in the United Brethren Church for fifteen years ; has been a member of the I. O. O. F. for four years ; also held the office of Supervisor for two years. He married Rebecca L., third daughter of John Carmony, of Champaign County, December 27, 1855 ; seven children have been born to them, four of whom are living--Orien E., Etta M., Frank A. and Wilber E. Mr. Anderson's mother was a native of Warren County, Ohio, and was born in the year 1798. (Unfortunately, the exact date of this lady's birth is lost.) She was a member of the United Brethren Church, and died January 23, 1881, after a long and useful life of eighty-three years.

COL. WILLIAM BAGGOTT, retired, P. O. Vandalia, is one of the early settlers of Ohio. Born in Fredericksburg, Va., December 25, 1798, he remained at home with his parents until fourteen years of age, when he engaged with David Allman to learn the cooper trade. This calling he followed for six years under Mr. Allman's instruc-

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tions, at the expiration of which time he began work on his own account at Newmarket. He emigrated to Ohio in the spring of 1823 and settled in Licking County, where he remained twelve years, when he removed to Clark County. His last move was to where he now resides. These various moves were necessary on account of his occupation, contractor on the "National Gravel Road." He bought the farm where he now resides in 1838. He married Miss Hannah, fourth daughter of Tunis Quick, May 20, 1823. Six children have been born to them, three of whom are living. Mrs. Baggott departed this life January 17, 1865 ; the remains are buried in the cemetery near the Lutheran Church in this township. Mr. Baggott has been a member of St. John's Commandery, F. & A. M., for forty-two years. He has never sought any office whatever, but has lived a quiet, retired life, and the writer takes pleasure in spreading this sketch on the page of history for the benefit of his family and his numerous friends.

A. M. BARRETT, minister, Vandalia, was born in Indiana County, Penn., June 30, 1853; remained at home with his parents until the year 1867, when he entered school at Glade Run Academy, Armstrong County, from which institution he graduated in the fall of 1875, and the same year removed to Springfield, Ohio, and entered Wittenberg College, where he remained until the summer of 1878, graduating with high honors. In September of the same year, he entered the Theological Seminary " and completed his studies in the year 1880. Last July, he received and accepted a eall from Vandalia pastorage, Evangelical Lutheran Church, under the control of the General Synod. Although Mr. Barrett is a late comer in this vicinity, his calling places him in a position to do much good. He is a courteous gentleman, and we predict for him a life of usefulness.

MICHAEL BENNERT, teacher, Vandalia, is one of the veteran educators of this county, born in Baden. Germany, March 21, 1846. The family emigrated to this country, landing at New Orleans, in the year 1855. His father, David Bennert, died on the journey, fifty miles south of Louisville, Ky. ; his remains are buried at the foot of Blue River Island." The family first settled at Liberty, where they remained one year, and then removed to where we now find them and engaged in farming, which occupation he followed up to the year 1859. He received his education at Southwestern Normal School, at Lebanon, Ohio. He enlisted in the Seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, October, 1861, then under command of Col. G. Moodie, and served until his term of enlistment expired, when he returned to Vandalia and commenced teaching. He married Elizabeth, youngest daughter of John Taylor, November 4, 1269. Five children have been born to them--Louis A., Wilber D. and Dawes T., the youngest being twin daughters, Flora and Lora. Mr. Bennert is a member of Vandalia Lodge, No. 657, I. O. O. F. ; has been a member of the United Brethren Church for fifteen years.

G. H. BRENNER, farmer, P. O. Vandalia, born in Montgomery County, December 24, 1833, where he has lived all his life. From the above it will be seen that the subject of this sketch is one of the pioneers of this county. He remained with his parents until he arrived at his majority, at the expiration of which time he bought the farm where he now resides. The home consists of seventy acres, situated on the National Road, a half mile west of Vandalia. in the year 1875, he built a fine residence, and the place is valued at about $12,000. He has held the offices of Township Trustee and Treasurer of the Vandalia Town Hall ; is also a member of the School Board. He married the eldest daughter of Louis Mills, September 24, 1857 ; five children have been born to them--Charles O., Emma J., Laura G.. Birdie B. and George G.; the latter was born June 19, 1858. He married Sarah E. McDonald, of Arcanum, December 24, 1877. One child is the result of this union--William L. Mrs. Brenner has been a consistent member of the Lutheran Church for nine years. The friends of this family are numerous, and they are spoken of by their neighbors as people who are an ornament to the circles in which they move.

ANDREW BRENTLINGER, farmer, P. O. Chambersburg, born in Pickaway County, October 4, 1818, and remained at home with his parents until nineteen years of age. His first purchase was eighty acres in Allen County, in 1840 ; this he held

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for speculation until 1850. He first settled in this township in 1844. The farm where he now resides he purchased in 1862. The place consists of 160 acres under good cultivation ; a fine two story brick residence and other permanent improvements adorn the farm, valued at about $13,000. He married Miss Ruth Watt, March 18, 1844 ; two children were born to them--Cordelia J. and Mary E., the former now Mrs. John Beeson and the latter Mrs. Andrew Eiesman, located at Mexico, Mo. Ruth departed this life December 27, 1846 ; the remains lie in the Fryback Cemetery. Again he married Ann E., eldest daughter of John Polhamus, June 7. 1847 ; ten children have been the result of this union, eight of whom are living--Martha A., died August 9, 1848; John, died January 16, 1856; Thomas J., Caroline, William; Alice N. and Eliza A. Alice married W. S. Sunderland, who died July 18, 1878, and is buried in Tippecanoe Cemetery; two children were born to them, one of whom is living--Walter E. Mary G. died June 5, 1879, and is buried beside her father. Mr. B. has been a member of the Reed Commandery, F. & A. M., for eighteen years, and a member of the United Brethren Church for twenty-nine years.

JOHN Q. A. COOVER, farmer, P. O. Spanker. Among the enterprising young men of this county is John Q. A. Coover, born February 13, 1847. His father, John M., was born in Pennsylvania, February 13, 1808, and came with his father to Ohio in 1829 and located in this county. He was deprived of the advantages of obtaining more than an ordinary education and was brought up to farm labor. His father was summoned away by death, which threw all the responsibilities of the farm and the support of a large family upon him and his brother, and they managed the farm until 1840, when he was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of James and Mary Duncan ; they purchased it and cultivated it in partnership successfully until his decease in 1876. He was elected Representative of this county in 1860-61. Mr. Coover was a self-made man, having begun life for himself in 1840, with nothing but his energy and strength to rely upon, successfully battled with the difficulties of pioneer life, and did his full share toward making Butler Township, as it is to-day, one of the most productive portions of Montgomery County. e was the father of three children, viz.. Benjamin F. (deceased), Martha E. and John Q. A. The subject of this sketch obtained his primary education in the common schools, attended Wittenberg College three years, and assisted his father during vacation. He celebrated his marriage with Sella C., daughter of John and Elizabeth Beard, June 18, 1874, and rented of his father until his decease, when he inherited his father's interest in the farm and remained in partnership with his uncle until 1878, when he purchased his interest and has cultivated it successfully until the present time. Mr. Coover's business qualities are good, and he is calculated to make a successful farmer, as he is long-headed and enterprising. Two children were born to them, viz.: Winferd F. V. and Leila. He has 230 acres, about 175 of which is under a high state of cultivation and nicely improved.

WALTER CROOK, grain merchant, Postmaster, ticket and express agent. Tadmor, was born in this county, Feb. 29, 1824 ; remained with his parents on the farm until he had attained his majority ; then removed to Miami County, near West Charleston, Ohio, settling on a farm of eighty acres ; remained three years, at the expiration of which time he purchased a farm near Vandalia. At the outbreak of the war, he enlisted in the Seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, then under command of Col. G. Moodie. Served two months as a private soldier, when for meritorious conduct he was promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned to the command of Company F, with which he served with honor and distinction until his term of enlistment expired. e then returned to this county, and in the year 1869 bought the warehouse, which interest he still controls. Has conducted the business of the railroad and post office for eleven years. to the entire satisfaction of' all concerned. Mr. Crook owns a fine residence near the station ; has held the office of Township Treasurer for twelve years ; has been a member of St. John's Commandery. Masonic fraternity, for twenty-two years. Was married to Miss Martha Jane Bates, of Montgomery County, in the year 1847. Mr. Crook is a man of fine business qualifications and a respected citizen.

LAFAYETTE CURTIS, traveling salesman, Vandalia, born in Cincinnati,

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August 11, 1847 ; removed to this county with his father in the fall of 1855 ; remained at home with his parents until twenty-seven years of age ; he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for eleven years. He married Miss Nancy Palmer, November 29, 1874 ; two children have been born to them--Minnie M. and Lulu A. Mrs. Curtis contracted pulmonary consumption sixteen years ago and gradually grew worse until the 15th of August, 1880, when death came to her relief. Her remains lie in Poplar Grove Cemetery. Mr. Curtis owns a nice residence, consisting of five acres, on which he erected a fine two-story frame house, valued at $1,800.

JACOB DEARDORF, farmer, P. O. Chambersburg, is one of the early pioneers and prominent farmers of Butler Township, born March 23, 1815. His father, Benjamin, was born in Adams County, Penn., and moved to York County at an early date, (where our subject was born). He was united in marriage with Hannah Harbolt. They were the parents of eight children, viz.: Elizabeth, George, Rachel, Jacob, John, Abram, Benjamin, Samuel. Jacob received his education, which was an ordinary one for those days, in the common schools, they being very few and several miles apart ; thus the opportunity of obtaining a good education was limited. In 1826, he went to work for his uncle, where he remained for two years, then returned to his father, remaining only a short time, when he engaged with a neighboring farmer for 8+ cents per day for one year. During this time his mother was summoned away by death, loved and respected by her many friends. Jacob returned home to learn the carpenter's trade with his father, working in the summer and going to school in the winter, as there was not much building during the winter months. He finished his trade and worked with his father until 1834, when he was encouraged to come West by the tide of emigration that was flowing westward at that time. On his arrival in Ohio, he located in Tuscarawas County, where he remained only a short time and went to Warren County. Not finding his business in a very prospering condition, came to Montgomery County and settled in this township and followed his business of contracting and building, meeting with good success. e celebrated his marriage with Rhoda, daughter of Robert and Nancy Hosier, December 5, 1839, and moved to Pickaway in the spring of 1840, where he carried on his business with marked success, contracting and building and dealing in real estate very extensively until 1856, when he became tired of the active business life that he was pursuing, purchased a farm of ninety-five acres that was nearly all under a good state of cultivation, and retired to a quiet life on the farm, where he enjoys all the comforts of a happy home. They are the parents of eight children, viz.: Wilson P., Mary A., Nancy, Benjamin F., John G., William E., Laura F. and Robert O. Mr. and Mrs. Deardorf have been members of the Christian Church for the past ten years, and their children are co-laborers with them in the cause of religion. He possesses good business qualities, is usually successful and enterprising and a man that is respected by a wide circle of friends and all who are brought in contact with him.

JOSEPH H. DEBRAY, physician and surgeon, Little York, born in Miami Co., April 28, 1841, received his preliminary education at Pleasant Hill, in the public schools, and finished his studies at the Friends' Academy in Miami County ; commenced the study of medicine under the instructions of William Patty, M. D., where he remained three years ; commenced the practice of medicine in the year 1867, at Pleasant Hill, but after a short time he removed to Dayton, and established himself in the drug business at No. 115 East Third street, which calling he prosecuted one year, at the expiration of which time he abandoned the store and resumed his practice. Two years ago he located where we now find him, he has a good practice which, by close application to his profession, is gradually increasing. He has been a member of the Brethren Church for fifteen years. He married Miss Carrie, third daughter of Richard Shepherd, August 14, 1865; four children have been born to them, three of whom are living--Rutherford B., Dora A. and the youngest, an infant, unnamed at this writing. The eldest died in infancy, and lies in Woodland Cemetery. The Doctor has never sought any office, but has devoted himself to his profession, is a courteous gentleman who commands the respect of all good citizens.

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STEPHEN DODSON, farmer, P. O. Vandalia, was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, May 20, 1840, but his mother dying when he was only six years old, he went to live with Jonathan Harpster, of Allen County, Ohio, who reared and educated him. In 1860, he removed to Montgomery County, where he was married to Sarah A. Wells, the daughter of Samuel and Mary (Johnson) Wells, October 18, 1863, of which union has been born one son--Harry, who died in infancy. Mr. Dodson has been a member of the United Brethren Church for twenty years, and is well known and respected in Butler Township. He and wife are living on her parents' old homestead, ministering to the wants of the venerable couple in their last days.

REV. EPHRAIM EBY, minister, Little York, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., May 27, 1833 ; remained at home until twenty-two years of age, during which time he learned the business of milling. He removed to Ohio in the spring of 1858, and settled where we now find him. He entered the ministry of the Brethren in Christ May 17, 1869. He married Miss Elizabeth, fifth daughter of Rev. John Winger, April 5, 1860 ; three children have been born them--Annie W., John Wesley and George W. The former is now Mrs. Silas Myers, located on the home farm. Christian Eby, the father of the subject of this was born in Pennsylvania, in February, 1800, and died June 28, 1870. The remains are buried in Strickler Cemetery, Lan-caster County, Penn.

C. W. EBY, farmer, P. O. Vandalia, born in Lancaster County, Penn., April 18, 1841 ; he received his education at the State Normal School, Millersville, Penn., finishing his education in the summer of 1861. He remained at home with his father until he arrived at his majority, when he removed to Ohio, locating near Little York. April, 1862, at which place he taught his first school, 1862-63. During the next five years, he taught in Vandalia. Districts No. 8 and 9. His first purchase was ten acres of land, at a cost of $950. By industry and economy, acre after acre has been added, until now the home consists of seventy acres, all in a fine state of cultivation, with good substantial buildings; total valuation about $8,000. In the meantime, he has been largely interested in educational matters, teaching in District No. 2, eight years. Has been Township Superintendent of Schools four years, and has been a member of the United Brethren Church for twenty-two years. He married Miss Fanny, youngest daughter of Rev. John Winger, of Little York, March 17, 1864. Three children have been born to them--Almira, Clara M. and Anna Mary. Mr. Eby never sought any office whatever, but has lived a quiet, retired life, and is a man respected by a wide circle of friends.

HENRY EIDEMILLER, farmer, P. O. Vandalia ; born in Maryland February 28, 1837. He removed with his parents to this State in the year 1837, and settled in Montgomery County, where he remained until the time of his father's death, which occurred August 29, 1877. His remains are buried in Maple Hill Cemetery, near Tippecanoe, Ohio. Henry remained at home with his father until he reached his twenty-fourth year. His first purchase was the farm on which he now lives, 110 acres, original cost, $4,017.50, now valued at $12,000. The farm is situated on the Miami and Montgomery gravel road, two miles north of Vandalia, and is the dividing line between the two counties ; a large and commodious dwelling and barn adorn the place, and the evidence is not lacking to establish the fact that Montgomery County farmers are up with the times. e married Miss Mary B., eldest daughter of James Madison, of Miami County, December 12, 1860. Five children are the result of this union, four of whom are living. His wife departed this life November 5, 1873. He was again married to Miss Lizzie Huffman March 4, 1874; three children have been born to them. Mr. Eidemiller is a prominent citizen, and a man who commands the respect of all with whom he comes in contact.

JOHN EWING, farmer, P. O. Spanker, was born in Ohio October 29, 1823. His father, William, was born in Kentucky October 27, 1789 ; came to Ohio with his parents in 1797, and settled in Montgomery County, Washington Township. He received his education in the common schools, and was brought up to farm labor. He was united in marriage with Jane Magarva in 1819. They were the parents of five children--Elizabeth, James, Nancy, John, and one dying in infancy. When he

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arrived at the age of twenty-one, he inherited his father's farm, containing 160 acres, and has since added, by economy and persevering labor, 400 acres, making in all, 560. The subject of this sketch obtained his education in the district schools, and assisted his father on the farm until he celebrated his marriage with Julia, daughter of John S. and Susan Hole, in 1851, when he rented of his father for the following seven years, and proved very successful. In 1859, he purchased a farm in Washington Township, containing 144 acres, where he remained until 1865, when he sold it and purchased the place where he now resides, containing 120 acres, which is nearly all under cultivation. He has a large and commodious farm house, and many other improvements to correspond, which could only have been obtained by hard labor, perseverance and industry, with the assistance of his noble wife. He has never been an aspirant for office, but has been elected Township Trustee, which shows the popularity and confidence he holds in his township. e and wife are worthy members of the Christian Church and their children are co-workers with them in the cause of religion. They are the parents of three children Mary M., Eva and Olive. Mr. Ewing is an industrious and enterprising man, and is held in high esteem in his community.

REV. S. S. HOLDEN, minister, P. O. West Milton, Miami County, Ohio. Among the many men of Ohio who have devoted their lives to the ministry, our subject occupies a leading place. He was born in Harrison County, W. Va., September 6, 1832, and remained with his father until he attained his twenty-third year, removing with his parents to Champaign County, Ohio, in 1835, thence to Kalida, Putnam County, where he received his education. Receiving his theological training from his father, he, in 1854, entered the ministry of the United Brethren Church, and in 1856 joined the Auglaize Conference, preaching in different portions of Ohio and Indiana for thirteen years. In 1869, he was called to the Miami Conference, his first work being on the Beavertown Circuit, ninety members being received during the first three years. He next went to Germantown, fifty-eight members being received there, and after filling various other pulpits he was finally called to Beavertown Circuit, where we now find him. During his twenty-three years of ministerial services, he has been instrumental in building nine churches, one of them being called " Holden Chapel" in honor of the founder, and it is one of the finest church buildings in the county, costing 85,000, its graceful spire standing as a monument to his untiring energy. To illustrate his efficiency as a man of deeds we refer to a few of the many things accomplished by him during his labors in the Lord's vineyard. During his two years work at Springboro, on the Utica Mission Circuit, although he found no church organization there, one was soon effected ; " Centennial Chapel," built at a cost of 85,000, and seventy-six members received. He has collected for missionary and other purposes $25,727.40, and has received into the church 1,610 members ; he has never missed an appointment on account of ill health, and in an early day he rode on a circuit in Jay, Blackford and Wells Counties, Ind., 150 miles every three weeks, filling seventeen appointments ; surely his has been a grand work. e was married September 30, 1856, to Sarah A. Buxton, second daughter of Singleton Buxton, of Mercer County, Ohio, of which union five children have been born, three of whom are living--Pierson B., William S. and Ella. To every appearance, Mr. Holden is only in the prime of life, and imbued as he is with a spirit of Christian energy, and a love of doing good, his work is sure to be crowned with the diadem of success in this life and the eternal crown of happiness in the next.

ISOM JOHNSON, farmer, P.O. Vandalia, was born, raised and received his education in Montgomery County. Born December 25, 1827, and remained at home on the farm with his parents until seventeen years of age. He then engaged with John Shoup to learn the carpenter trade, which occupation he followed for twelve years. His first purchase in real estate was 160 acres of land in Shelby County; selling this to advantage, he then bought the place where he now resides, 133 acres, all in a fine state of cultivation. The improvements are of the very best. The farm is located one mile north, and one half mile east of Vandalia. In addition to this, he owns 182 acres, the total valuation being about $40,000. When he first commenced business for himself a two-year-old

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colt was his sole preperty. Here is an example of energy and economy well worthy of imitation by the rising generation of the county. e married Miss Massey, fourth daughter of Isaac Miller, June 5, 1853 ; three children are the result of this union--John H., William A. and Amanda E., the latter now Mrs. William Shoup, all are living near the old homes. Mr. Johnson is looked up to as a man of sound judgment and good business qualifications, is a courteous gentleman and a good citizen.

JOSEPH D. JOHNSON, farmer, P. O. Vandalia, was born in Butler Township March 30, 1830, and has lived here all his life; remained at home with his father until he attained his majority ; then entered into a contract to work a farm on the shares with his brothers, John, Alexander, Morton and Isom. At the expiration of one year, he bought the farm where he now resides. Owns fifty-nine acres, all under good cultivation, on which stands a good, comfortable house, the whole valued at $5,000. On every hand one can see the evidences of thrift, prosperity and comfort. He was married to Miss Mary Ann Retten, of Bethel Township, Miami County, September 3, 1854. One child was born to them, who died in infancy. Has been a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church for twenty-one years. Has held the office of Supervisor two years, and that of School Director six years, both of which he has filled to the satisfaction of all concerned.

ALEXANDER V. JORDAN, general country store, Vandalia; is one of the leading merchants of that village; was born at Edenton, Clermont County, Ohio, May 21, 1839, and remained at home with his father until twenty-eight years of age, receiving his education in the public schools. His first purchase was forty-seven acres of land at a cost of $1,700 ; at the expiration of two years, selling to good advantage, he removed to where we now find him, and engaged in the mercantile trade in March, 1868, associating himself with R. L. Coffman ; the store invoiced $2,400. This partnership continued for twelve years, when Mr. Coffman retired. leaving the subject of this sketch sole proprietor. Enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty-third Ohio National Guard for one hundred days, and served until the expiration of his term of enlistment ; participated in the battles of North River and Green Spring Run, Va., the federal forces losing in killed and wounded twenty per cent of the entire command. His youngest brother, Charles, was captured in the first mentioned engagement, and after passing through all the horrors of Andersonville, he died of starvation Oct. 16, 1864, aged twenty years. Mr. Jordan has held the offices of City Treasurer six years, City Clerk two years, and Treasurer of the school fund three years ; has been a consistent member of the United Brethren Church for eleven years. He married Laura A., second daughter of David Coffman, of West Alexandria. Ohio, December 24, 1867, four children have been born to them, three of whom are living--Charles, Louie M. and Carrie E. We regard Mr. Jordan as a man of good business qualifications, and a courteous gentleman, who commands the respect of his friends and neighbors.

JOHN R. LIMBERT, farmer, P. O. Chambersburg, one of the early pioneers of this county, was born December 5, 1811, in Perry County, Penn. His father, Henry, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., about 1786, and was united in marriage with Catharine, daughter of Adam Wagoner; were the parents of thirteen children--John R., Barbara (deceased), Lewis, Henry (deceased), Mary, George, Levi, Adam. Susanna, Elizabeth, Sarah, Peter (deceased), Catharine (deceased). The subject of this memoir received a fair education in the common schools, and learned the wagon-maker's trade with John Garlig, where he served two years, and worked as journeyman four years, when he engaged in business for himself and pursued it successfully for eleven years, when he purchased a sawmill and ran it in connection with his business for seven years, and then exchanged it for the farm he now resides on, of fifty-one acres, in 1843. It is under a good state of cultivation and well improved. He celebrated his marriage with Regalia, daughter of George and Elizabeth Slenker, May 24, 1836, and had one child who died in infancy. Mrs. Limbert departed this life September 2, 1880. She was a good and noble woman, esteemed by her many friends, and all with whom she associated. Mr. Limbert has never been an aspirant for office, but has been Justice of the Peace and Trustee of the township, thus showing the prominence and

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confidence he holds in the community in which he lives. He is now sixty-nine years of age, and the most active part of his life is spent. He has left a record and history of success and confidence that future generations would do well to imitate.

MICHAEL C. MILLER, farmer, P. O. Vandalia, was born at Linglestown, Dauphin County, Penn., March 28, 1829, and removed with his father to Montgomery County, in 1834. In 1847, the family again removed to Preble County, Ohio. He remained on the farm with his parents until 1858, then rented a farm near Germantown ; here he remained five years, and during this time by industry and economy he saved $2,000. With this capital he purchased a farm of eighty-six acres, near New Madison, Darke County. ere he remained another five years. Having an opportunity to sell to good advantage, he disposed of all his possessions and removed to where we now find him. He owns twenty acres in a high state of cultivation, and a fine two-story frame residence graces the grounds. Although Mr. Miller is not an old resident of the county be is one of its prosperous men. e was married to Miss Elizabeth Hetzler, of Germantown, Ohio, January 14, 1858. e has been a consistent member of the United Brethren Church for eighteen years.

REV. JOHN C. MILLER, minister, Vandalia, born in Union Deposit, Dauphin County, Penn., August 15, 1831. Removed with his father to Montgomery County, November, 1833. After a lapse of fourteen years the family again removed to Preble County, Ohio. Mr. Miller had only the advantages of a common school education, but by hard study, at the age of' twenty-nine years, he received an appointment in the ministerial service of the United Brethren Church, to which profession he still adheres, and is now laboring on the Salem Circuit, filling four different appointments, viz.: Salem, Phillipsburg, Brookville and South Arlington. e owns a comfortable residence within the corporate limits of Vandalia. He married Miss Helen Coffman, of Enterprise, Preble County, August 17, 1854. Nine children are the result of his union, seven of whom are living. Lawrence C., the eldest son, is now undergoing a classical course at Otterbein University, preparatory to entering the ministry. Ulysses G. thirteen years of age, is deaf, having lost his hearing by brain fever when only one year old. He is now being educated at the Deaf and Dumb Asylum, at Columbus, Ohio.

JOSEPH MILLER, farmer, P. O. Tadmor, born April 11, 1844. Remained at home with his parents until twenty-two years of age. His first move was to Miami County, where he rented land and remained one year, and this one year is the total time that he has lived outside of the county where he was born. In 1868, he removed to where we now find him. His first purchase was thirty acres, at a cost of $1,200, which he still owns. He started with literally nothing, and to-day, through his own exertions and that of his good wife, he is worth about $4,000. He married Matilda, second daughter of S. S. Wells, February 16, 1868. Two children have been born to them--Laura M. and Harvey C.--both promising children. The biography of both his father and grandfather will be found in this volume, in connection with the life sketch of Isaac Miller.

ISAAC MILLER, farmer, P. O. Tadmor. The man of whom we now write traces his lineage back to the pioneer stock of the State. His father emigrated to Ohio in an early day and settled in this county on 165 acres of Government land, on which he remained until his death, the date of which is unfortunately lost. His remains are buried in the city of Dayton, near where the court house now stands. The subject of this sketch was born on the farm where he now resides, March 7, 1828, and has spent his entire life here. It becomes our duty to chronicle a very remarkable fact, that the father and son lived on the same farm for near three-quarters of a century. He borrowed the money to make his first purchase, thirty acres for $840, and through his own exertions is to-day in fair circumstances. e enlisted in the Seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, October 21, 1861, then under command of Col. Granville Moodie, and served until the close of the war. Was engaged in the battle of Stone River and many others. For meritorious services was promoted from the ranks to a First Lieutenant and assigned to the command of Company G, and was honorably discharged July

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17, 1865. He married Miss Martha, second daughter of Henry Westerman, January 29, 1851. Three children have been born to them, two of whom are living--Ellen and Lizzie. Henry died June 22, 1867, and lies in Sunderland's Cemetery. The first mentioned is now Mrs. Jacob Ryder. of Preble County, the latter Mrs. John C. Miller, of Harrisburg. He has been a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church for sixteen years, is a gentleman and a good citizen.

JOHN P. NINE, Principal of the Vandalia School, Vandalia, born in Miami County, April 12, 1847 ; remained at home with his parents until the year 1865 ; received his education at Northwestern University, Evanston, Ill., commenced teaching in Union Township in 1865, which occupation he followed until June, 1868, when he entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church, under the direction of Elder Bennett on Feesburg Circuit. At the expiration of one year the Quarterly Conference granted him a leave of absence. for the purpose of taking a theological course. In 1875, he was admitted into the Cincinnati Conference, and labored one year at Sears street and Ebenezer Churches, Dayton. The following year, he received an appointment to Germantown and Winchester Circuit, but failing health forced him to abandon the calling of his choice. He next engaged to teach in District No. 1, this township; after filling this position three years, he was next chosen Principal of the High School at Vandalia. e married Emma A., youngest daughter of David North, of Vandalia, December 24, 1871 ; four children have been born to them, two of' whom are living. Is a member of Vandalia Lodge 657, I. O. O. F.

M. V. PATTON, physician and surgeon. Vandalia, was born in the city of Springfield August 31, 1843 ; lost his father when only four years of age, and was taken by Henry Bates, of Wayne Township, to raise and educate. He entered school at Dayton in the year 1861. After completing his studies he removed to Vandalia and commenced the study of medicine under the instructions of J. D. Kemp, M. D., and finished his medical education under J. J. McIlhenny, of Dayton. Commenced the practice of medicine at Harrisburg, Ohio, 1875, where he remained three years, at the expiration of which time he established himself where we now find him. He married Annie E., youngest daughter of Jacob Richmond of Dayton, April 28, 1870 ; one child is the result of this union--Gertrude C. The Doctor has a large and increasing practice, and is recognized as a good physician.

JAMES PATTY, retired farmer, P. O. Little York, is one of the old pioneers and prominent farmers of this township ; he was born March 9, 1812. His father, Charles, was a native of South Carolina, born about the year 1788, in what was then called the Columbia District. He was united in marriage with Phoebe, daughter of Enoch and Phoebe Pierson. They came to Ohio and located in Miami County in 1807, and were the parents of nine children, viz. : Mary, Rebecca, Enoch, John, Mark, William, Phoebe, Ann and James. The subject of this sketch obtained his education in the common schools, and assisted with the farm duties until he married Mary. daughter of James and Margaret Beck, in 1833. e moved to Shelby County in 1835, and remained there until 1839, after which he moved to this township and settled on the place where he now resides. It contained 160 acres, but he has since added thirty-eight acres, situated near the banks of the Stillwater River, making in all 198 acres, of which 150 are under a good state of cultivation. They are the parents of ten children, viz.: Charles, Nancy, Phoebe, John, George, Martha, Anna, Margaret, Mark and Mary, four of whom are (lead.

PERRY N. RANKIN, merchant and Postmaster, Little York, was born near Johnsville, March 14, 1856. e remained at home on the farm until twenty-two years of age, and received his education in the public schools. His first venture in life was in the above-named business at Frederick, Miami County, where he remained eight months, at the expiration of which time he removed this store to where we now find him ; was appointed Postmaster last April ; amount of stock carried $2,000, his fall purchase will amount to $2,000, and the spring purchase to $1,000. e commenced in mercantile life with $500 ; his yearly sales aggregate about $8,000. e married Miss Anna N., eldest daughter of Frederick Smith, January 1, 1879 ; one child has

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been born to them--Stella. Mr. Rankin is yet a young man, and his business places him in a position to become one of the leading business men of Montgomery County.

DAVID RYDER, retired farmer, P. O. Vandalia, was born November 2, 1812. His father, Jacob Ryder, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was united in marriage with Mary Wortce; she departed this life in 1819. They were the parents of nine children ; five of whom are living, viz.: Catharine, Elizabeth, John, Susanna and David. The subject of this sketch obtained his education in the common schools, and was brought up to farm labor. He came to Ohio with his father, locating in this county, Jefferson Township, in 1828. He married Catharine, daughter of John and Mary Keener, in 1834 ; rented his father's farm the following year, after which he purchased his present place, containing 133 acres, nearly all under a good state of cultivation. Mr. Ryder commenced in life a poor boy, but by hard labor, together with temperate and correct business habits, he has accumulated considerable property, in which he has been nobly assisted by his good and industrious wife, and they are now reaping the reward of their labor. They have been members of the New-School Lutheran Church for upwards of forty years, having a large circle of friends and are highly esteemed by all who know them, being hospitable and kind to all. Mr. Ryder has been School Director for several years. They are the parents of nine children ; of whom seven are living, viz. : Mary, Michael, David, Jacob, John, Henry and Emaline, while two, Nancy and Anna, are dead.

RICHARD SUNDERLAND, farmer, P. O. Vandalia. The man of whom we write comes of the pioneer stock of this county born in Butler Township, June 2S, 1818 ; he has lived within one-half mile of his birth-place all his life. Educational advantages in his boyhood days were very meager. The schoolhouse in which he received his education was built of round poles, the windows consisted of holes ten inches wide and six to eight feet long, covered with oiled paper, the desks and seats were composed of slabs, and the floor was rough hewn slabs, laid loose on the ground. School was kept not to exceed four months in the year, and was supported by subscription, no school fund then being in existence. Mr. Sunderland remained on the farm where he was born until he became of age, then rented eighty acres on which he remained until 1866, when he bought thirty acres at a cost of $1,000, and has kept adding thereto year after year, until, at this date, we find him possessed of 300 acres, all under good state of cultivation. In 1879, he erected a large and commodious brick dwelling at a cost of $3,000. He was married to Miss Elanor Reed, March 25, 1839 ; three children were born to them, two of whom are still living, the oldest daughter, now being Mrs. Elwood Furnace, of Story County, Iowa. Mrs. Sunderland departed this life in 1855, when he was again married to Miss Nancy Wells, of Montgomery County, March 13, 1856 ; eight children bless this union ; six are living, the two oldest being twin girls. Mr. Sunderland is still vigorous and apparently only in his prime. Has held the office of Township Trustee fifteen years ; has been a consistent member of the United Brethren Church for twenty years, and is now serving a ten years' term as Land Appraiser. His judgment and business qualifications are very good, and as a man and neighbor he ranks with any in his township.

JAMES SUNDERLAND, farmer, P. O. Vandalia. Among the many enterprising farmers of this county the name of James Sunderland occupies a prominent place. He is descended from pioneer stock of the county and traces his lineage back to the days of " ye olden time." Was born on the farm where we now find him, August 31, 1823, and it is a remarkable fact that Mr. S. has spent his entire life on this farm. At the age of twenty-one years he began life by working this (his father's) farm on the shares, which he continued to follow until the year 1866. By industry and economy he was by this time enabled to purchase thirty acres, for which he paid $1,000. Fortune smiled upon him, and as year after year passed by, acre after acre was added to the first purchase, until now 518 acres constitute the homestead. In 1877, Mr. Sunderland erected a fine residence, which is in keeping with the rapid advancement of the county. This is one of the model farms of the county, and is valued at $26,000. His educational advantages were the same as those of his brother Richard,

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whose biography will be found in this volume. This gentleman, we look upon as a very fair sample of the self-made men of our times. e was married to Miss Mary Wells, April 18, 1844; eight children have been born to them, two of whom are still living, Matilda J. and Della A.; both are married and live on the home farm. Mr. Sunderland has never sought any office whatever, but has lived a quiet, retired life, and the historian deems it but just to spread his sketch upon the pages of history as one of the worthy men of Montgomery County.

PETER TENNEY deceased, a native of New Jersey, born September 12, 1808 ; he emigrated to Ohio with his parents in 1811, and settled in this county ; his mother died the same year the family arrived in Ohio, and Peter was taken to be educated by a widow lady, Mrs. Lowery. With this lady he remained fifteen years. when he returned to his father, who, in the meantime, had removed to Clark County ; he remained at home until he was twenty-one years of age. He married Miss Nancy, third daughter of George Drummond, May 27, 1830. Twelve children have been born to them, eleven of whom are living. Elizabeth, the eldest daughter, died February 9, 1870 ; the remains lie in what is now known as the Fenner Cemetery. Mr. Tenney was one of the pioneers of this county, and was well known all over Northern and Central Ohio. He departed this life June 9, 1880. His remains are buried in Maple Grove Cemetery. His widow still lives on the farm two and a half miles north of Vandalia, on the Springfield and Union gravel road. She is very vigorous for one of her age, and to judge from appearances only in the prime of life. She was born near Fairfield, Clark County, August 9, 1810, and has been a consistent member of the Christian Church for eighteen years. By request of Mrs. Tenney, we locate all the children as follows : George Tenney, Peabody, Kansas, grain and coal dealer ; John C. Tenney, Sheridan, Neb., farmer ; Franklin Tenney, Sheridan, Neb., agricultural implement dealer ; Mrs. Sarah Saunders, Casstown, Ohio ; Mrs. Margaret Addleman, Athens, Ohio ; Mrs. Mary Townsley, Dayton, Ohio ; Mrs. Rosanna O'Neil, Dayton, Ohio ; Mrs. Nancy Ketcham. Springfield, Ohio ; Mrs. Calista Oaks. Butler Township ; William Tenney, Milton, Ohio ; Mrs. Esther Kerr, Tippecanoe City, Ohio. Twenty-six grandchildren are living, and the aggregate age of this family is over 800 years.

HARRISON WAYMIRE, farmer, P.O. Vandalia. Daniel Waymire, the great grandfather of our subject, was born in North Carolina; came to Ohio and settled in the southern part of this township at an early date. He was united in marriage with Sophia, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth Plummer about 1796. They were the parents of thirteen children ; those living are Davis, Daniel, John, Catharine, Elizabeth, Henry, Sarah. Rosanna, Isabel. Davis, the grandfather. was born February 8, 1802. He was brought up to farm labor, and assisted his father until his marriage with Mary, daughter of Joseph and Margaret Pierson in 1831, and moved to the place where he now resides, which he had bought two years before his marriage. He was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace in 1832, which position he filled with credit and honor for over forty years. They are the parents of three children--John C., George C. and Austin. He was the owner at one time of over 400 acres of land, and as his children arrived at their majority he gave them each a farm, reserving 103 acres to keep himself comfortably in his declining years. John C., the father of our subject. was born November 9, 1832 ; married Mary, daughter of John S. and Margaret Anderson, June 1, 1850. John C. united with the Christian Church in 1855, and was an earnest laborer and consistent Christian, as well as a kind and indulgent father and husband until his decease in 1875, which threw all the responsibilities of' the farm on Harrison. He received a common school education, and assisted with the farm labor until his father's death. He celebrated his marriage March 11, 1875, with Bell, daughter of Henry and Mary Kline. They are the parents of' two children--Alta May and Lena Grace. He has 103 acres, nearly all in a high state of' cultivation and handsomely improved. Mr. Waymire is a good financier, long headed, and a man of untiring industry, religiously honest, conscientious and just. e has as large and commodious a farm house as any one in the township.

HENRY WAYMIRE, retired farmer, P. O. Iamton. The father of Henry

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Waymire was a native of North Carolina, and was born in 1776. On his arrival in Ohio, he located with his father in this township. He celebrated his marriage with Sophia, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth Plummer, in 1796. They were the parents of thirteen children ; the living ones are Davis, born February 8, 1802 ; Daniel, April 26, 1806 ; John, August 31, 1808 ; Catharine, March 5, 1811 ; Elizabeth, July 14, 1812 ; Henry, July 6, 1816 ; Sarah, June 8, 1818; Rosanna, October 19, 1821 ; Isabell, May 27, 1824. Henry received an ordinary education, for those days, as the number of schoolhouses was limited and far between, going to school in the winter and assisting with the farm duties in the summer. His father died in 1825, and on his arrival at the age of twenty-one, became owner of the homestead, which contained 160 acres, since which, he has added, by bard labor and industry, 181 acres on Section 13, sixty-five on Section 18, fourteen on Section 7, 103 on Section 12, nearly all of which are under a good state of cultivation. He has been elected to the township offices for thirty-five years, and is also Notary Public. e was married to Malinda, daughter of Sylvanus and Elizabeth Swallow, in 1837. They were the parents of three children, viz.: Mary A., Davis and Augustus. In 1840, his wife passed into the dark valley of death, beloved by all who knew her. His children being young and needing a mother's care, he sought the hand of Hannah, the daughter of Joseph and Margaret Pierson, and was married in the fall of 1840. They have had by this union two children, viz. : Eli R. and Oliver P. Mr. Waymire_. is one of the most enterprising and progressive citizens of the county, and his family are noted for generous hospitality.

DANIEL W. WAYMIRE, farmer, P. O. Iamton, was born in Butler Township, August 21, 1839. His father, John, was born in this township in 1808, and was united in marriage with Margaret Coble, of this county. They were the parents of four children, viz. : Isaac C., Sarah, Hamilton and Daniel W. The subject of this memoir obtained his education in the district schools, and was brought up to farm labor. e lived with his parents until 1860, after which time he farmed his father's place on shares until his marriage with Amanda, daughter of' Philip and Elizabeth Miller, in 1863. e has been identified with the township offices. They are members of the Christian Church, and have been earnest laborers and consistent Christians. They are the parents of three children, viz. : Welby L.. Eva A. and Carrie O.

CHRISTOPHER C. WEISENBORN, farmer, P. O. Chambersburg, was born in Prussia. December 17, 1820. e emigrated to America and settled in Dayton, Ohio, in 1844, where he remained but a short time, when he rented 106 acres in Butler Township and cultivated it until 1852, when it was purchased by him. Christopher obtained his education in the schools of Prussia, which was a very ordinary one. He has since added to his farm, by hard labor and untiring industry, thirty-nine acres, making 145 acres. nearly all under a good state of cultivation. He was united in marriage with Sophia Shettletrier, in 1848. They were the parents of two children, viz. : Caroline (now Mrs. George Shoup) and Christopher (deceased). Mrs. Weisenborn was summoned out of this world, leaving the children almost in their infancy. Mr. Weisenborn, seeing that his little ones needed a mother's care, sought the hand of Lesetta, daughter of Christopher and Caroline Densmier, and was married May 29, 1853; are the parents of' ten children, viz. : Anne M., Catharine S., John C., Gottlieb O., John, Louisa M., Mary C., William F., George H. and enry W. Mr. Weisenborn has been a life-long member of the Lutheran Church, and has brought up his children in the fear of the Lord.

SAMUEL WELLS, retired farmer, P. O. Vandalia. Among the pioneers of Montgomery County few are left to tell of the privations and hardships endured in the early settlement of the Miami Valley, but in the old settler whose name heads this sketch, together with his venerable wife, we have a living link stretching back to the time when this county was a dense forest and civilization crude throughout its length and breadth. Samuel Wells was born in the State of Maryland, June 15, 1798, and was the son of William and Rhody Wells, natives of that State, who died when Samuel was a child. e was taken to the home of his uncle, Samuel Wells, who, together with his wife, Martha, cared for their nephew until he reached manhood. In 1817,

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the whole family came to Ohio, settling in Miami County, where our subject remained until 1822, when he removed to where we now find him. He was married to Mary Johnson, September 18, 1822, of which union five children were born, viz.: Rebecca (the wife of Isaac Wademan), Mary (wife of James Sunderland), William, Nancy (wife of Richard Sunderland), and Sarah (wife of Stephen Dodson), all of whom are living within sight of the old homestead. Mrs. Wells was the daughter of David and Mary Johnson, and was born in Rowan County, N. C., December 23, 1802, emigrating with her widowed mother to Ohio, in 1809, settling in Montgomery County, where she has since resided. When Mr. Wells and wife built their log cabin upon the present homestead, there were but two farmers settled between him and where " Ebenezer Church" now stands, and the dense forest abounded in wild game. Here they have lived and labored hand in hand for over fifty-nine years, the last forty-three of which they have been consistent members of the Disciple Church, and as they pass down the valley of life they have the consolation of knowing that their children are among the most respected citizens of their township, and that they themselves will leave a record of honesty, morality and Christian charity which their descendants may point to with just pride and filial reverence.

WILLIAM WELLS, farmer, P. O. Vandalia, was born May 16, 1830, in this township, and has never lived out of the county. e remained at home on the farm with his parents until twenty-two years of age. His first purchase was twenty-seven acres, for which he paid $675, or $25 per acre. At the time he bought it (1854). it was all timber, but by hard labor and economy acre after acre has been added, until now the home contains 267 acres in a high state of cultivation. In 1873, he built a fine residence and other substantial improvements have been made. The valuation to-day is about $23,000, and it is situated on the " New Troy Turnpike," One mile north of Vandalia. This is one of the model farms of the county. e married Miss Nancy, second daughter of William Sunderland, May 25, 1852. Five children have been born to them, three of whom are living--Ellis E., William S. and Charley H. The first named married Miss Emma Clemmer, October 23, 1879. Mr. Wells has been a member of the School Board nine years, and both he and wife have been consistent members of the United Brethren Church for twenty years.

DeLAFAYETTE WESTERMAN, general county store and proprietor of Eagle Hotel. Vandalia, was born in this township December 28, 1844, and has spent most of his life here. e received his education in the public schools ; remained with his father until fourteen years of age. His mother died when he was but eight years old, which necessitated the dissolution of his father's family, hence his leaving home at such an early age. When eighteen, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry for one hundred days. At the expiration of his term of enlistment, he returned home, and spent several years working on a farm as a hired hand. From this time until 1868, he followed the occupation of clerk in a dry goods and grocery store, at Chambersburg, soon after which he engaged in mercantile business at Chambersburg, and in 1869, he removed his store to where we now find him. He carries a general assortment of goods and keeps the only hotel in the place, and is worth $4,000. Leaving home so young and accumulating this amount with no assistance shows both good management and sound judgment. April 18, 1868, he married Miss Fannie E. Shiffert, of Madison County, Ky. Four children are the result of this marriage, two of whom are still living--Nellie L. and Lorena G. Mr. Westerman is a courteous gentleman, and one of the most enterprising business men of Vandalia.

REV. JOHN WINGER (deceased) was born in Lancaster County, Penn., February 26, 1807; remained at home with his father until twenty-seven years of age, during which time he learned the business of manufacturing woolen goods ; removed to Ohio with his parents in the year 1827, and settled in Montgomery County, where he remained until his death. He organized the church known as the Brethren in Christ, in the Stillwater Valley ; entered the ministry in 1840, under the guidance of the River Brethren, where he continued to labor until the organization of the church, now known as the Brethren in Christ, which occurred about 1853. He was a preacher for

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thirty-nine years, and during the time never asked for or received any pay for his ministerial services. He married Miss Sarah Moyer, and eight children were born to them, seven of' whom are living. Sarah departed this life August 20, 1847, and the remains are buried on the farm where we now write. Again he married Miss Catharine Slotterbeck, and two children was the result of this union, one of whom is living. On the 28th of January, 1879, Mr. Winger was afflicted with apoplexy, from the effects of which he died, and his remains lie beside those of his wife Sarah. Catharine, his second wife, died July 20, 1878, and the remains rest in the same enclosure. Rev. Winger was a man widely known and universally beloved. He had written a short sketch of his life, but it has never been published ; half of his good deeds will never be known, as he speaks more of the good done by others than himself, but eternity will unfold the record of his life.