550 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY some unexpected discovery by an opposing lawyer, for in his mind he weighs every point and fortifies himself as well for defense as for attack. He convinces by concise statements of law and facts rather than by word. painting, and so high is the respect for his legal ability and integrity that his assertions in court are seldom questioned. Whatever he does is for the best interests of his clients and for the honor of his profession, and no man gives to either a more unqualified allegiance or riper ability. Recognition of his legal powers came to him not only in an increased clientele but also in his election to the bench in November, 1896, when he was chosen judge of the fifth judicial circuit, comprising the counties of Richland, Ashland, Wayne, Stark, Tuscarawas, Muskingum, Perry, Morgan, Coshocton, Holmes, Licking, Knox, Delaware, Fairfield and Morrow. On the bench his course has been in harmony with his record as a man and a lawyer—distinguished by unswerving loyalty and a masterful grasp of every problem presented for solution. In September, 1900, at the annual meeting of Ohio circuit judges, he was elected chief justice of the Ohio circuit court. Judge Douglass was married October 10, 1883, to Miss May Weagley, the eldest daughter of Captain. William Hilary and Eleanora Weagley, of Bellville, Ohio. Theirs has been a most Congenial, happy companionship and largely an ideal married life. Unto them have been born four children: Stephen Augustus, who was born September 12, 1884; Eleanor May, born March 27, 1886; Marion Hilary, a little blue-eyed, sunny-haired girl, who was born April 29, 1894, and died March 17, 1897 ; and Marion Drexal, born June 12, 1896. Judge Douglass belongs to a college fraternity, the Alpha Gamma Chapter of the Beta Theta Phi. He also holds membership in Monroe Lodge, No. 224, I. O. O. F.; Madison Lodge, No. 56, K. P., and Mansfield Lodge, No. 56, B. P. O. E. He is a stalwart Jacksonian democrat, who believes in and has advocated, by speech and pen, the supremacy of the nation, the autonomy of the states, local self-government, a tariff for revenue only and the free and unlimited coinage of both gold and silver as basic or primary money. His wife is a member of the First Presbyterian church and, while not identified with any religious organization, Judge Douglass is a. believer in the spirit of Him who came to teach the brotherhood of mankind and the fatherhood of God. Strongly domestic in his tastes, he is devoted to the welfare of his wife and children. He was reared under United Presbyterian influences, where all reading was discouraged except that of the most solid and somber character. Denied in youth those books which give so much pleasure to childhood, he has seen that there is no lack of such in his own home and, while careful in the selection of 'literature for his children, he is resolved that they shall get all the pleasure possible out of good reading. His own literary taste finds expression in history, biography, essays and treatises of divers sorts. Fond of all manly, outdoor sports, he enjoys a ball game and a horse race, and especially a tramp in the woods, and he finds recreation and pleasure in the cultivation of flowers. The breadth of his nature and kindly spirit is indicated in the statement that he often makes that life is too short to harbor bitterness toward one's fellowmen. Nature and culture have vied in making HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 551 him an interesting and entertaining gentleman, while the principles that have governed his life have developed in him a character which commands the highest respect. The public entertains for him warm admiration for his abiability and, never content with the "second best," he has continually passed on to those things which broaden nature, which uplift thought and make life full and complete in its higher interests. GILBERT SWANEY. Gilbert Swaney, who since 1902 has been manager for the Farmers & Merchants Banking Company of Lucas, was born in this village July 19, 1855, and is popular among his fellow townsmen not only in business but also in social circles. He is a son of Samuel and Mary (Leiter) Swaney, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Maryland. In the year 1836 the paternal grandfather came from the Keystone state to Richland county, Ohio, and in the early '50s Samuel Swaney arrived in this county, where he entered business circles as a merchant, continuing in that line for several years. Later he was engaged in the tanning business, at which time white oak bark was used for tanning purposes. He was a man of industry and enterprise. Grandfather Leiter, the father of our subject's mother, was a cousin of Joseph Leiter, the Chicago 'millionaire. Samuel Swaney gave his political allegiance to the republican party and had firm faith in its principles. In religion the father worshiped with the Presbyterians and the mother with the Lutherans. After the death of Mrs. Swaney the father married again, his second union being with a sister of his first wife. There were two children of the first marriage: G. Swaney, of this review ; and Mary, who is now deceased. Unto the second marriage there were born five children, but three died in infancy, while the others are: D. E., a resident of Mansfield, and Myrtle, the wife of Ed Smart, of Madison township, this county. The death of the father occurred in 1890, when he had reached the age of sixty-nine years. Gilbert Swaney, in starting out in life on his own account, began work as a farm hand and later accepted a clerkship, being thus engaged for sixteen years, his long continuance in business standing as incontrovertible evidence of his fidelity and trustworthiness. In 1902 he became manager for the Farmers & Merchants Banking Company at Lucas, and as its cashier has made a popular officer, while his enterprise, keen sagacity and diligence constitute an important element in the success of the business. The other officers of the company are: A. J. Solomon, president; and H. F. Smart, vice president. This bank is now recognized as one of the safe, reliable institutions of the county and is an institution of much value in business circles in the village. In 1894 occurred the marriage of Mr. Swaney and Miss Amanda Fox, who was born in Lucas in 1869, and is a daughter of Benjamin and Malinda Fox. Her father was a native of England, while her mother was born in 552 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY the state of Ohio. She is still living, but Mr. Fox has passed away. Their family numbered four children. Both Mr. and Mrs. Swaney attend and support the Lutheran church, and he exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party. Having always lived in Lucas, he is well known here and his life record has ever been an open book which all may read. He has been true to high ideals in his relations with his fellowmen and commands the confidence and good will of all with whom he is associated. JAMES H. SECRIST. Among the substantial agriculturists of Richland county. is numbered James H. Secrist, who owns and operates a valuable tract of land comprising one hundred and thirty acres, situated on section 31, Monroe township. He is a native son of the county, his birth having occurred January 10, 1847. His parents, David and Jane (McClay) Secrist, were also farming people. The father was born in Pennsylvania, August 28, 1815, while the mother was a native of Ireland. The former accompanied his parents to Ohio from the Keystone state in 1827, he being then a lad of twelve years, and one of a family of nine children, all now deceased. He was a shoemaker by trade and also owned-and conducted a farm in Richland county. His family numbered seven children, as follows: Sarah Jane, deceased; Nancy K., the wife of Jacob Snyder, of Clark county, Illinois; George W., who has also passed away; James H., whose name introduces this review; Mary, the wife of Conrad Clever, of Michigan; John C., a resident of Bellville, Ohio; and David, deceased. The wife. and mother of this family passed away in 1853 and the father was married a second time, this union being with Hannah Hunter, by whom he had a son and daughter:. Louise S., the wife of Julius Rush, of Butler, Ohio; and Charles F., a resident of Richland. county. The father passed away May 7, 1886, while the wife and mother survived for a long period, her death occurring April 7, 1904. James H. Secrist, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared to farm life and also learned the shoemaker's trade during his youth. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-four years of age and then started out upon an independent business career by working at his trade for a time. He later operated rented land, during which time he acquired a sum sufficient to enable him to invest in property, becoming owner of sixty-seven acres, which he conducted for two years. He then disposed of that property and purchased land in Clark county, Illinois, making his home in that state for six years, after which he returned once more to Richland county and bought sixty acres of .land, on which he made his home for twenty-two years. He then sold that tract and purchased his present farm, this compris ing one hundred and thirty acres, situated on section 31, Monroe township. He is here engaged in raising the various cereals adapted to the soil and climate and each year harvests good crops as a reward for the care and labor HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 555 he bestows upon the fields. He has improved the place with good barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock and everything about the place is kept in good repair, denoting the thrift and energy. of the owner. Mr. Secrist established a home of his own by his marriage on the 23d of March, 1871, to Miss Lucinda Snavely, a daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Good) Snavely, both natives of the Keystone state. Mrs. Secrist was born in 1852 and—was one of a family of nine 'children. Both parents are now deceased, the mother having passed away in 1898, while the father survived fox a few years and died in 1904. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Secrist has been blessed with seven children, as follows: Verda J., the wife of J. M. Polka, a resident of Richland county; David A., also a resident of this county; Jason O., at home; Sarah M., who is deceased; two who died in infancy; and Rhoda, the wife of Lester Riblet, of Richland county. Mr. Secrist gives his political support to the republican party and for four years served as supervisor, while at the present time he is acting as school director. His fraternal relations are with the Patrons of Industry. He and his wife attend and support the Congregational church. With the exception of a few years spent in Illinois, Mr. Secrist has always lived in Richland county and both he and his wife are highly esteemed, the hospitality of their own pleasant home being freely accorded to their many friends and acquaintances. B. F. MINNEAR. B. F. Minnear, a well known hotel proprietor of Lexington, Ohio, was born in West Virginia, January 27, 1845, his parents being George and Lucinda (Clarke) Minnear, the former born in Virginia, October 20, 1806, while the mother's birth also occurred in that state on the 1st of March, 1822. They are both now deceased. Their family numbered thirteen children, namely : William H. B., who has passed away; Malinda Jane, the wife of J. N. Pritchard, of West Virginia; B. F., of this review; Hiram Z., who is also deceased; Zachariah T., who resides in West Virginia; Philadelphia C., who makes her home in. Pennsylvania; David N., who has also passed away; Sarah A., the wife of Samuel Currie, of Pennsylvania; Mary A., who became the wife of Adam Jackson and makes her home in West Virginia; Gustave E., living in Ohio; Laura L., the wife of F. Dodd, of West Virginia; Ida Belie, the wife of James Sharp, also of West Virginia.; and one who died in infancy. When not yet eighteen years of age B. F. Minnear enlisted for service in the Civil War as a member of Company 0, Fifteenth Virginia Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Sidney F. Shaw. The. period of his service covered two years and nine months and he participated in many hotly contested battles, including the engagements at New River Bridge -and Cloyd Mountain, Virginia; Martinsburg; Winchester; Cedar Creek; Fisher Hill and Petersburg. He also witnessed the surrender of Lee at Appomattox. He was 556 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY fortunate in that he was never wounded, and he was honorably discharged on the 29th of June, 1865. Returning to West Virginia, Mr. Minnear worked at common labor for six years, subsequently being engaged in mining for eight years. On the expiration of that period he conducted a grocery and restaurant for four years, and in 1882 opened a retail liquor store at Columbus, Franklin county, Ohio, which he conducted for three years. In 1885 he located at Johnstown, Ohio, where he' conducted a grocery for eleven years, and in 1896 came to Lexington, where he has since been engaged in the hotel business. Purchasing a fine home, he remodeled it into 'a twenty-two room hotel and has since conducted the hostelry with an enviable and well merited measure of success, being widely known as one of the substantial and public-spirited citizens of the county. In 1878 Mr. Minnear was joined in wedlock to Miss Maggie B. Gordon, whose birth occurred in West Virginia in 1861, her parents being Minor A. and Fannie Gordon, both now deceased. She was one of a family of six children, the record of whom is as follows: John, who has passed away; Arthur, of West Virginia; Sally, who likewise makes her home in West Virginia; Fannie, of Ohio; Hattie, also residing in the Buckeye state; and Mrs. Minnear. Unto our subject and his wife have been born seven children: Claude R., deceased; Flowie G., the wife of Haryey Smart, of Ohio; Norval M., at home; Floyd, who has also passed away ; and Beulah, Paul and Mabel, all of whom are still under the parental roof. Mr. Minnear is a republican in his political views, giving stanch support to the men and measures of that party. He still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in the Grand Army Post at Mansfield. Perhaps no one business enterprise or industry indicates more clearly the commercial and social status of a town than its hotels. The wide-awake, enterprising villages and cities must have pleasant accommodations for visitors and traveling men, and the foreign public judges of a community by the entertainment afforded to the strangers. In this regard the hotel of which Mr. Minnear is proprietor is an index of the character and advantages of Lexington, for the hostelry will rank favorably with those of many a larger place, and its genial proprietor neglects nothing that can add to the comfort of his guests. CHARLES HORN. Charles Horn has the distinction of being the pioneer cigar manufacturer of Mansfield, but has done a work of even more far-reaching importance and benefit in the introduction into the county of many fine varieties of stock and poultry. In this way he has done much to improve the grade of stock raised in this part of the state, and general prosperity has thereby been advanced, as prices have been correspondingly increased. He is now largely living HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 557 retired in Mansfield and well deserves the rest that has come to him after long years of active, well directed and honorable labor. Mr. Horn was born in Huron county, March 7, 1841, a son of William and Eleanora (Greenfelter) Horn, both of whom were natives of Germany, the former born in 1805 and the latter in 1814. They were married in 1837 and became the parents of ten children, including Charles Horn of this review, was educated in the district schools of Sandusky county, and spent his early life with his father on a farm. At the age of nineteen years he left home and entering commercial circles became the purchasing agent for Phinney, Osmer & Company, who were in the wholesale lumber and stave business. This business he followed for three years, when with the capital he had acquired through his industry and enterprise he began the manufacture of cigars in Fremont, Ohio, and continued there for two years. He also carried on a similar business in Bucyrus for five years and in 1870 came to Richland County, locating in Mansfield where he began the manufacture of cigars, conducting the business with success until 1885. He was the originator of the celebrated Cash cigar, which was the leader of the ten cent cigars and made for him an extensive reputation, while it proved a profitable adjunct to his business. This cigar is still upon the market and finds a ready sale. After closing out his cigar and tobacco business, Mr. Horn purchased a farm, in Franklin township, comprising two hundred and forty acres of land and of this he still owns one hundred and sixty acres, after disposing of eighty acres of the tract. Upon this farm he and his family resided for nineteen years and he became known as one of the most progressive stock-raisers in this part of the state. He made a specialty of breeding thoroughbred Jersey cattle, Shropshire sheep, Chester White hogs and choice poultry and he also engaged extensively in raising seed wheat. He succeeded in producing some new varieties of poultry and is still interested in this line of business. Mr. Horn has always been a thorough believer in advertising and through that medium and by his good judgment and careful management he developed a business of large proportions, becoming an extensive breeder and shipper. His sales extended over the territory as far east as Maine and west as Oklahoma. He bred as high as three hundred hogs yearly and found a ready sale for all the stock produced upon his place. He brought into Richland county the first Jersey calf and it was a curiosity to all. People would frequently drive to or past his place in order to see for the first time this little Jersey wonder. All of his stock was registered and no farmer of the community has kept better bred stock than Mr. Horn and in the business he met with well merited success. On the third day of July, 1866, Mr. Horn was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Taylor, who was born December 16, 1843. They are the parents of five children : Edwin L., Leonora B., Charles W., Anna, and Alphonse, who died when but five years of age. The family are members of the Episcopal church, of which Mr. Horn is also an attendant. Socially he belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Masonic fraternities. His political support is given to the democratic party, but he has never sought nor held office, preferring to con- 558 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY, centrate his energies upon his business affairs, which capably directed, have brought to him gratifying success as well as a deserved reputation as one of the leading stock-dealers of this part of the state. JOHN W. GRIEBLING. John W. Griebling, residing on his pleasant farm on section 1, Troy township, is a native of this county, having been born in Washington township, March 10, 1859, the son of Jacob and Anna (Remy) Griebling, both of whom were natives of Germany, where the father was born in 1830, and the mother in 1827. Seeking the larger opportunities which the new world afforded, the father came to America in 1848 and located in Washington township. He later disposed of his property and purchased a farm in Troy township, where he passed the remainder of his days. He died in 1887, in his fifty-eighth year. The mother survived him a number of years; passing away in 1905. They were the parents of seven children, of whom two died in infancy. The others are: John W., of this review; Fred A., who resides at Mansfield; and George G., Henry and Emma, all of whom now reside in Troy township. John W. Griebling received his education in the district schools of the county, which he attended regularly throughout the school year while in the primary grades, but when he reached an age to be of assistance to his father in the work of the farm his attendance was necessarily somewhat irregular, being confined to those months of the year when farming operations were suspended.. He received a good practical education, which served as a groundwork for his success in later years. In 1869 his father purchased from B. J. Mercer a grist mill that had been built in 1833 on the farm which our subject now owns. Actuated by a desire to see his son develop the talents of which he knew him to be possessed, the father turned this grist mill over to him when he was twenty-two years of age, giving him all that he could make as an inducement to undertake the enterprise. That John W. Griebling justified the faith and confidence which his father reposed in him is evidenced by. the fact that he continued to operate this as a flour, and grist mill for about twenty-five years, deriving from it a remunerative income. During this time he bought two and one-half acres of land which he proceeded to beautify and adorn as a home, besides which he had an interest in his father's estate, which consisted of one hundred and eighty-one acres. In 1907 he bought his present farm, consisting of seventy acres of Richland county's choicest land. On June 13, 1897, Mr. Griebling was united in marriage to Miss Jennie V. Cairnes, who was born in Indianola, Warren county, Iowa, March 15, 1868, the daughter of William S. and Margaret (Lorimer) Cairnes. Her father was born in Canada, August 8, 1843, and was educated for the ministry at Toronto. He came to Richland county in 18.66 and one year later wedded Miss Margaret Lorimer, who was born in Madison township, in 1850. In 1868 Rev. Cairnes located in Indianola, Iowa, where he spent one year, at the HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 559 expiration of which time he returned to Richland county, where he has since continued to reside, his present address being Butler, Ohio,' where he is a minister in the Methodist Protestant church. He owns a fine farm in Troy township. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cairns were born two daughters, namely : Jennie V., the wife of our subject, and Lillian, the wife of John A. Eby, of Connellsville, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Griebling have become the parents of two children—one son, Charlie J. and one daughter, Margaret C. Fraternally, Mr. Griebling is a member of the Knights of Pythias, at Lexington. His estimable wife is a faithful and consistent member of the Congregational church, and both are held in high esteem by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. MICHAEL E. DOUGLAS. There are few citizens who have given such tangible evidence of loyalty and patriotism as has Michael E. Douglas through his active service in defense of the union in the Civil war, and through his administration of the offices that have been conferred upon him by the vote of his fellow townsmen and by his ready and helpful co-operation in many movements for the public good. In business, too, he is widely and favorably known as the secretary of the Merchants & Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Company. He was born in Springfield township, Richland county, Ohio, October 21, 1831, and has therefore reached the age of seventy-seven years. His parents were William and Margaret (Edgington) Douglas. His father was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1798, and died in Springfield township, this county, in 1857. He, was a son of Michael and Lydia (Pollock) Douglas, both of whom were natives of Scotland but were married in Ireland, and in emigrating to the new world took up their abode in Pennsylvania. By this marriage there were eight sons and six daughters. In 1823 Michael Douglas and his family came to Richland county, Ohio, settling in Springfield township upon a farm which had previously been secured by their son William and his brother, who arrived in this county prior to the arrival of the other members of the family. The journey was made from Pennsylvania in an old covered wagon after the primitive manner of travel at that day. After arriving at years of maturity William Douglas was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Edgington, who was born in Jefferson county in 1803, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (or Polly) Edgington. Mr. and Mrs. Edgington arrived in Richland county in the fall of 1815, accompanied by Jonathan Beach and his family, and the Edgington and Beach families were the first to locate in Springfield township. The marriage of William Douglas and Margaret Edgington was blessed with five children. Of this family Michael E. Douglas, whose name introduces this review, was the third born and upon-the home farm was reared, acquiring a common-school education. He studied during the winter months, mastering the com- 560 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY mon branches of English learning, and in the summer season he worked upon the home farm. He taught school for five consecutive winters, but regarded this as merely an initial step to other professional labor, for it was his desire to become a member of the bar and with this object in view he took up the study of law under the direction of L. B. Matson, a practicing attorney of Mansfield. In 1860 he was admitted to the bar, but was soon afterward elected secretary of the Richland Mutual Insurance Company, a position which he filled for ten years, interrupted by his service in the Civil war. He was one of the organizers of the Merchants & Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Company, and became its secretary in 1876, since which time he has continuously filled the position, so that for the greater part of his life he has been connected with the insurance business in an official capacity. Thus called to a position of executive control he has subsequently bent his energies largely to organization and constructive efforts and administrative direction. Possessing broad, intelligent and liberal minded views, a well founded faith in himself and a recognition of the possibilities for development in the field of insurance, his has been an active career in which he has accomplished important and far-reaching results, while from his labors he has derived substantial benefits. In the year 1861 Mr. Douglas was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane Zimmerman, of Mansfield, a daughter of Levi and Mary Ann (George) Zimmerman. Her father was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, April 17, 1814, and her mother's birth occurred October 6, 1815. They were married November 17, 1835, and unto them were born six children, of whom five are living, three being residents of Mansfield. Mr. Zimmerman came to Richland county in 1824 and took up his abode in Mansfield in 1827. Early in life he engaged in farming and when still quite young he was bound out as an apprentice to learn the tin and copper trade, serving for a term of five years. On the expiration of that period he went to Massillon, Ohio, where he began work at his trade, but after three months he came to Mansfield. He was here employed by others for about, two years, at the end of which time he commenced business for himself and continued an active representative of the industrial and commercial interests of the community until his retirement a few years ago. He was also a partner of Mr. Buckies in a similar business at Bucyrus, Ohio, and when his partner died Mr. Zimmerman remained as sole proprietor of the business. Three times during his active business career he suffered extensively from loss by fire and on one of these occasions, in 1860, his home with all its contents was entirely destroyed. He ever commanded the respect and trust of his fellowmen by reason of business methods which have never sought nor required disguise. His political allegiance was long given the republican party and previous to its organization he was a whig, casting his first vote for Harrison in 1836. Fraternally, he was an Odd Fellow, belonging to the lodge at Mansfield for fifty-seven years and in all his life he exemplified the beneficent spirit of that order, which is based upon the brotherhood of mankind and finds its best exemplification in mutual helpfulness and charity. His early faith was that of the Methodist church and his life record constitutes an example that is well worthy of emulation. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 561 The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Douglas has been blessed with one son and two daughters: Levi Earnest; Mary, wife of J. E. Gibson ; and Lucretia, wife of Henry C. Hedges. Two years after his marriage Mr. Douglas, in October, 1863, assisted in organizing Company G of the Twelfth Ohio Cavalry, of which he was made first lieutenant and in May, 1865, he was promoted to the captaincy of the company and resigned from that position the same year, the war having ended. He was a brave and loyal soldier, being advanced through meritorious conduct and inspired his men with his own bravery and valor. He belongs to McLaughlin post, G. A. R., of Mansfield, and in polities has ever been a stanch republican, standing loyally by the party which was the defense of the union in the dark days of the Civil war and which has ever been the party of reform and progress. In 1868 he served as mayor, of the city by appointment and was a capable and efficient officer, his administration being businesslike and progressive. Fraternally he is an Odd Fellow, the order claiming him as one of its efficient members since 1860, and he has long been a faithful member of the Methodist church. Throughout the community he is recognized as a man whose word is as good as his bond, while his genial disposition, his unfailing courtesy and his kindliness have won for him popularity with a host of warm friends. JOHN EASLY. John Easly, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits on section 34, Cass township,has spent his entire life upon the farm where he now lives. Here he was born on the 5th of August, 1844, a son of Martin and Frances (Bander) Easly. The father was a native of Germany, born in Baden in 1808, and spent his boyhood and youth in that country, being twenty-one years of age when he emigrated to the new world and settled in Pennsylvania. He started out as a peddler, selling old-fashioned clocks from house to house in that state for four years, and then came to Ohio, where he was similarly employed for the same length of time, he and his brother George, who was connected with him in business, importing the clocks from the old country. At the end of that time George Easly married and located in Loudonville, Ashland county, where he established a jewelry store, our subject's father remaining with him until his marriage. It was in Richland county that Martin Easly wedded Frances Bander, who was born in Switzerland, June 12, 1811, and about 1838 they located on the farm in Cass township where their son John now resides.. Here the father purchased eighty acres of land, only nalf of which was under cultivation, while the remainder was either swamp or timber land, and for this property he paid eight hundred dollars. Our subject has since added to the farm until he now owns one hundred and ninety-one acres and he has made many improvements thereon. The swamp land has been drained, there being about one thousand dollars' worth of tile upon the place ; the timber has been cleared away ; and the land is now under a high state 562 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY of cultivation. Here the father died at .the age of seventy-one years, and the mother passed away at the age of eighty-one. Both were devout members of the Catholic church and were held in high regard by all who knew them. In the family of this worthy couple were four children. The oldest, Rose Ann, always went by the name of Easly, although she was a child by the mother's former marriage. She is now the wife of Henry Easly, of Loudonville.. Mary wedded Peter Demars, but both are now deceased. John is the next of the family. Katharine, deceased, married Frank Klinkle, a brother of our subject's wife. John Easly was reared and educated in this county and as soon as old enough to be of any assistance he commenced to aid in the improvement and cultivation of the home farm, and has since devoted his time and energies to agricultural pursuits, being now the owner of a very valuable farm, on which stand good and substantial buildings. On the 27th of October, 1869, Mr. Easly married Miss Mary Klinkle, who was born in Springfield township, this county, September 11, 1844. Her parents, George and Mary (Hublinger) Klinkle, were both natives of Germany but were married after their emigration to America. Mrs. Klinkle, died in this county, but her husband's death occurred at Crestline, Ohio.. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Early were born eight children : Jennie, who is now the wife of Bertram Sheibly, of Cleveland; 'Edward, who is operating sixty acres of land adjoining his father's place; John, who holds a position in the office of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at Cleveland; Clarence, who is employed in the Loraine steel plant; Emma, a resident of Cleveland; Charles and Clara, both at home ; and William Martin, who died in infancy. The parents and children still at home are communicants of the Catholic church at Shelby and Mr. Easly is a democrat in politics. The family is one of prominence in the community where they reside. LEWIS W. CHAMPION. An excellent farm on section 25, Plymouth township, pays tribute to the care and labor of Lewis W. Champion,. who has resided upon this place since March 1, 1887. In connection. with the cultivation of cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he is also extensively engaged in stock-raising, making a specialty of Hereford cattle, in which connection he has become widely known. One of the native sons of Plymouth township, he was born October 6, 1860, of the marriage of William and Elizabeth (Diehl) Champion, also natives of this county, where they spent almost their entire lives. The father here died on the 12th of June, 1899, at the age of sixty-eight years, while the mother now resides. in Plymouth township. William Champion was a son of Christian Champion, a native of Virginia, and one of the first to penetrate into the western wilderness of Ohio for the purpose of founding a home here. In the Champion family were six children : Norman, now HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 565 deceased; Wesley, living in Shiloh; Finley, also of Plymouth township; Lewis W.; Charles, of Plymouth township; and Frank, of Garrettsville, Ohio. Throughout his entire life Lewis W. Champion has been connected with farming interests and in the period of his boyhood and youth he assisted his father in the work of the fields, remaining at home until twenty-one years of age. He then started out in life on his own account, working by the month as a farm hand for three years, but wishing that his labors might more directly benefit himself, he rented his present farm of his father and when he had saved from his earnings a sufficient capital he purchased the. property, or rather ninety-five acres of his farm, which today comprises one hundred and thirty-five acres. He has resided on the place continuously since March 1, 1887, and has made it one of the valuable properties of this part of the state. He built a fine bank barn, forty by eighty feet, in 1905, and .he has made all of the substantial improvements here, laying many thousand tiles and thus draining his farm after the most approved methods. In addition to tilling the soil he is extensively engaged in stock-raising. He has a fine herd of Hereford cattle, having twenty-one head of registered and graded stock, with Beau Donald, No.. 247621, raised by F. E. Maxwell, at the head of the herd: He became the property of Mr. Champion January 12, 1907. He also owns the heifers, Maple Leaf, No. 228294, and Maple Fawn, No. 228289. His place is appropriately styled the Oak Grove Hereford Stock Farm, and he certainly has a valuable possession in his herd of registered and graded Herefords. He is also raising Duroc-Jersey hogs and finds this a profitable source. of income. In 1887 Mr. Champion was united in marriage to Miss Rachel Bevier, a native of Plymouth township and a sister of Isaac Bevier, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. They now have two children, Lloyd and Leona. Both Mr. and Mrs. Champion enjoy the friendship of many with whom they have come in contact and the hospitality of the best homes in the community is freely accorded them. Z. T. RHOADS. For many years Z. T. Rhoads has been identified with the commercial interests of Darlington, Where he is engaged in the conduct of a general mercantile establishment. He is a native of Somerset county, Pennsylvania, born August 7, 1851, a son of Jacob and Susanna (Bisel) Rhoads, who were likewise natives of the .Keystone state. The father removed with his family to Wayne county, Ohio, in 1865, where he was variously employed. He was a tanner by trade, but was not identified with the tanning business after coming to Ohio. Mr. Rhoads was twice married and by his first union there were three children: Emaline, the wife of John Kain, a resident of Wayne county, Ohio; Sophia, the wife of Edward Manges, a resident of Wooster, this state; and George, deceased. The children of the second marriage are: Z. T., whose name introduces this review; William, who is now deceased; Mary, the 566 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY wife of Josiah Vanbuskirk, a resident of Marion county, Ohio; Sherman, of Wooster; John, who makes his home in Canton, Ohio; Minnie, the wife of Mannus Mesner, a resident of Wooster; Benjamin, Jacob, Charles and Elmira, all of whom are now deceased. The mother of these children passed away in 1887, and the father survived for ten years, passing away in 1897: Z. T. Rhoads was reared in his native state to the age of fourteen years, when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Wayne county, this state. He remained at home until he had reached the age of twenty-seven years, when he made his way to Richland county, and has since made his home in this section of the state. It was soon after his arrival in this county that Mr. Rhodes was united in marriage to Miss Mary Alice Black, who was born .in Richland county and was one of a family of three children born of the marriage of Fred and Harriet (Drake) Black, who were likewise natives of the Buckeye state. Both Mr. and Mrs. Black are now deceased. Following his marriage Mr. Rhoads located on a tract of rented land, which he operated one year and then removed to Darlington and engaged in well drilling. Four years later he opened a grocery store. in Darlington. In 1893 he built his present business block and embarked in general merchandising, which he has since conducted. He carries a large and well selected line of goods and is meeting with excellent success, owing to his reasonable prices and his honorable and straightforward dealings with his patrons. Mr. Rhoads is a silversmith by trade and does considerable work in this line of activity. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rhoads were born three children : Melva R., the wife of Milton Ball, of Darlington ; ,Bertha J., the wife of Fred L. Ruhl; and William R., who makes his home in Canton, Ohio. The wife and mother died in 1903. Mr. Rhoads gives his political support to the men and measures of democracy and for seventeen years served as postmaster, while at the present writing he is serving as township treasurer. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Disciples church, to which his wife also belonged. Few men are more prominent or more widely known in the enterprising little city of Darlington :than Mr. Rhoads. He is meeting with success and it is well deserved, for it has been won only through the strict rules of integrity and fair dealing. JOSEPH FISHER. Joseph Fisher, who is now living retired on his farm in Weller township, was born in Richland county, Ohio, May 19, 1836, his parents being John and Effie (Eversole) Fisher, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of New Jersey. The father came to Richland county in an early day and put up the first night at a tavern in a log house in Mansfield. Subsequently he purchased land here and made his home in this county until called to his final rest in 1853; his wife surviving him until 1859, when she too, passed away. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 567 Unto them were born twelve children, but only three are now living, namely: Joseph, of this review; William, an agriculturist of Hillsdale county, Michigan ; and Mary L., the wife of Jacob Miller, of Williams county, Ohio. Samuel, a farmer of Weller township, this county, is lately deceased. Joseph Fisher acquired a common-school education and began life on his own account when but thirteen years of age by working as a farm hand, being thus engaged for ten years. In 1859 he went to California by the water route, but after a year there passed returned to the state of his nativity. For the succeeding thirty-three years he was engaged in threshing, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in that undertaking. In 1865 he purchased a farm in Franklin township, on which he made his home for fifteen years, when he disposed of the property and bought a tract of eighty-one and a half acres on section 26, Weller township, where he has since made his home. His landed holdings now comprise two hundred and twenty acres in Weller and Blooming Grove townships, and he is now living retired, spending his remaining days in the enjoyment of well earned rest. On February 25, 1864, Mr. Fisher was united in marriage to Miss Susanna Boals, whose birth occurred in Richland county May 18, 1834, her parents being David and Susanna (Glover) Boals, likewise natives of this state. Mrs. Fisher was one of a family of ten children, and by her marriage she has become the mother of four, namely : Effie Jane, the wife of J. S. McElroy, of Toledo, Ohio; Susan E., who is the wife of Foster Urich and resides in this county; Mary L. and Calvin M., both at home. Our subject and his wife also have one grandchild. In his political views Mr. Fisher is a democrat and has served as infirmary director for six years. His wife is a member of the Baptist church, in the work of which she is actively and helpfully interested. From the early age of thirteen years Mr. Fisher has made his own way in the world, and therefore the success which has crowned his efforts is entirely the result of his industry and untiring perseverance. He has justly earned the proud American title of a self-made man and is now numbered among the respected and substantial citizens of his native county, being a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family here. CHARLES L. HAYES. Eighty-six years have passed since the Hayes family was established in Richland county and throughout the entire period its members have been active in promoting the agricultural and industrial development of the community. The birthplace of Charles L. Hayes was the old farm homestead, two miles east and one mile south of Shelby—a farm that has been in possession of the family since 1821. Here he first opened his eyes to the light of day, September 5, 1835, his parents being Almon and Esther C. (Betts) Hayes, who were natives of Connecticut. 568 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY The father was born in 1800, while the mother's birth occurred in 1798. In the year 1821 they arrived in what is now Jackson township, Richland county, making the journey with a one-horse wagon all the way, doing their own cooking enroute and sleeping in the wagon by the roadside at night. They reached their destination in July, and while building a cabin they lived with Harvey Camp, a brother-in-law, who had located here a year or two before. Soon, however, they had completed a little log cabin, in which. Charles L. Hayes was later born. It was a small structure of one room, about sixteen by twenty feet, with a ladder to reach the loft above. Beechnuts would fall on the roof at night making an almost continuous. rattling, and wolves frequently howled around the door. The father at first purchased fifty acres of land and afterward doubled his possessions. He paid three hundred dollars for the first tract, meeting the payments with butter and cheese, and also doing some blacksmith work. In connection with the task of tilling the soil he conducted a blacksmith shop, and later he left the boys to do the work on the farm, while he devoted his entire attention to the trade. In the early days he frequently employed some of his neighbors to assist him in doing the clearing, exchanging blacksmith work for their efforts to bring the land into a cultivable condition. All of the hardships and privations of pioneer life were familiar to the family. They pounded Corn and then made johnnycake, which was the principal article of diet. Later they sent the boys to mill on horseback with a bag of corn, which was ground. The cooking was all done over the old fireplace, and each night they rolled into the house an immense log which was placed upon the fire that it might keep all night. A Dutch oven was used in which to bake their bread and other supplies. There were no luxuries and comparatively few. of the comforts known at the present time, but they were happy homes in many of those old log cabins, for they realized that they were making homes for themselves and their children, and that their labors would ultimately be rewarded. Almon and Esther C. Hayes continued to reside upon the old homestead farm until their death, the former passing away at the age of fifty-six years, while the mother died in 1893. They reared six children. Almon W. was born in September following the arrival of the family in this county and died in 1906 in Williams county, Ohio, where he removed after his marriage, residing on one farm throughout the remainder of his days. Horace Betts, who served for three years in the Civil War, enlisting from Williams county, is a carpenter by trade and now resides in Battle Creek, Michigan. Jonathan died in Williams county in 1860. Hannah Ruanah is the deceased wife of Dr. Hurshiser. Charles L. is the fifth in order of birth, and Lewis Cass resides upon a. part of the old home farm in Jackson township. When the parents arrived, in 1821, there were only sixteen voters in what is now the territory comprised in Sharon and. Jackson townships, but which had not been divided at that time. The Indians often brought venison to the Hayes cabin in appreciation of some favor which they had received, for the members of the household were generous with their red neighbors and did many a favor for them. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 569 Charles L. Hayes early became familiar with all of the hardships and conditions of pioneer life, and continuously resided upon the old homestead, with the exception of a period of five years, until 1893, when he came to Shelby, where he has since made his home. While in his sixteenth year he began learning the carpenter's trade at Marion, Ohio, and worked there for five years with John Naylor and John Cullison and with their successor. After a half decade spent in the town Mr. Hayes returned to the farm, owing to the illness of his father, who did not recover, but passed away in 1856. Mr. Hayes then returned to Marion for another year, but again he took up his abode upon the farm and assumed the management of the property, comprising one hundred acres, which he and his brother owned. For a time Mr. Hayes rented his share of the property, but later sold it. During much of his life he has been active in carpenter work and followed the trade most of the time in Shelby, until six years ago, but is now largely living retired. He has been agent for the Ohio Farmer for thirty years and has taken thousands of subscriptions for the paper. He has also attended many fairs in the interests of this paper and has thus introduced it to the people in attendance. As general agent he handles almost all of the daily papers sold in Shelby. He is a great angler and spends a portion of. each summer fishing in Michigan Waters. On the 5th of September, 1858, Mr. Hayes was married to Miss Martha Ann Tucker, who was born in Shelby in 1837 and died in 1901. She was a daughter of Simeon and Paulina (Roberts) Tucker, the former a native of Pennsylvania, although they were married in Ohio. Mr. Hayes is well known in this county, where the greater part of his life has been passed, and is classed with its prominent pioneers, few men having more intimate knowledge of the history of the county and its development. JAMES W. HUNTSMAN. James W. Huntsman is entitled to mention in this volume from the fact that he is one of the pioneers of Richland county, and is. the oldest living man in Perry township, being now eighty-four years of age. He was for many years actively identified with the agricultural interests of the county and while he still retains possession of his fine farm, comprising one hundred and sixty acres, situated in Perry township, he is leaving the active work of the place to others and is now enjoying in well earned rest the fruits of his former toil. Mr. Huntsman Was born on a farm in Perry township, May 5, 1824, just across the road from where he now lives, and he is a son of Jonathan and Nancy (Wherry) Huntsman. The father was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1793, and came to Perry township, Richland county, in 1816, ettling on the farm where our subject was born. This land he entered from the government. When Perry township was organized he was elected and served as its first clerk and in many other ways was prominent in his locality: He passed away here in 18'66, at the age of seventy-three years, his wife having 570 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY preceded him to the home beyond, her demise occurring in 1859. Their family numbered nine children, but James W. of this review, who is the fourth in order of birth, is the only one now living. The others were: William, who died at the advanced age of eighty-four years; Israel, Josiah, Noah, Amariah, Mary Jane, Sarah Ann, and John, who died in infancy. James W. Huntsman, the immediate subject of this review, was reared on the old homestead farm in Perry township and was early trained to the duties which fell to the lot of the farmer. During the winter months, when not busy on the home place, he pursued his studies in a subscription school, walking one and a half miles to the schoolhouse, which was a primitive log structure with dirt floor and greased paper windows. He remained under the parental roof until he had attained the age of twenty-five years, when he learned the harness-maker's trade, working at the same in Woodbury, Morrow county, Ohio, for six years. At the end of that period he returned to the home farm and resumed work, while in 1859 he took up his abode on his present farm, renting the same for four years, at the end of which time he made purchase of the property. This is a well improved tract, comprising eighty acres, which has been placed under a high state of cultivation. It is also improved with a good residence and substantial outbuildings and everything about the place is kept in a neat and thrifty appearance. Besides this farm he owns another eighty-acre tract. For many year Mr. Huntsman was actively engaged in general farming and he is still living on his farm, but the work is being carried on by his son. Mr. Huntsman proved his loyalty to his country, when in 1864 he offered his services to the government, enlisting as a member of Company B, One Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio Regiment, with which he served from the 2d of May until the 10th of September. He 'had three brothers who were in the army at the same time. Mr. Huntsman has been married twice. He first wedded Miss Catherine Baker, who was born near Baltimore, Maryland, their wedding being celebrated in June, 1859. Unto this union were born three children: Warren, an optician, of Oregon, Missouri; Lindon H., who was a carpenter of Cleveland, Ohio, but is now deceased; and Charles A., who was born October 3, 1874, and is now operating the home place. He has served for four years as township clerk. The wife and mother died in 1883 and the following year Mr. Huntsman was married to Amanda Amos, who was born in Perry township, this county, November 18, 1844, a daughter of Frederick and Margaret (Schaffer) Amos. Her father came to this county about 1835. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Huntsman was blessed with three children : Mertie, who has passed away; Louis, the wife of Wade Stewart, a farmer of Perry township; and John, who at the age of twenty years, is with his parents. Politically Mr. Huntsman was formerly a whig, but upon the organization of the new republican party became identified with its principles and policy. He has frequently served as township trustee and trustee of the school board, but aside from that has never aspired to public office. His fraternal relations are with the Patrons of Industry. Not only has he seen Richland county grow from a wild country, with only a few white inhabitants, to a HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 571 rich agricultural district, containing thousands of good homes and many growing towns, inhabited by an industrious, prosperous, enlightened and progressive people, but he has participated and assisted in the slow, persistent work of development which was necessary .to produce a change which is so complete that it has come to be popularly referred to as magical. C. C. SCHAFER. C. C. Schafer is conducting the hotel at Bellville, with his wife as able assistant, and they have made this an attractive hostelry, doing everything in their power to promote the comfort of their guests, so that they have secured a liberal patronage. The hotel is a credit to the town and is proving a good business venture. C. C. Schafer was born in Richland county and his parents were natives of Germany, and on coming to America they settled in Richland county in the year of 1826. They were among the pioneers of the district, casting in their lot with the early settlers, who aided in reclaiming the wild land and transformed it into productive farms. Their work was of a valuable nature and constituted a splendid element in the upbuilding of this section of the state, C. C. Schafer was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life and,. having arrived at years of maturity, he married Miss Luganda R. Orewiler. They are now conducting the hotel at Bellville which they own. It is a well appointed hostelry containing thirty-two rooms, pleasantly and attractively furnished. They make it their purpose to please their patrons and to minister to their comfort in every way possible. In addition to this property Mrs. Schafer also owns a fine farm in Springfield township, this county. Mrs. Schafer is a daughter of Andrew J. and Margaret (Madden) Orewiler, who were natives of Ohio, and became residents of Richland county at an early date. They are now living on a farm in Springfield township owned by their daughter, Mrs. Schafer. Mrs. Orewiler bore the maiden name of Margaret Madden. The father of Mrs. Orewiler was born in Ohio and her mother in Maryland. They came to this county at an early date and built one of the pioneer log cabins with clapboard roof, while one half of the cabin was floored with puncheons, while the other half had no covering, the dirt floor being used. At the time of Mr. Madden's death he owned three hundred acres of land, which constituted a valuable farm. He had taken this tract of land when it was a wild and unimproved district and had received one-half of it for clearing the entire amount. He contributed in a large measure in the early days to the development and progress of this part of the county and was numbered among its most active, successful and honored pioneers. Upon the farm he reared his family, numbering ten children, but Mrs. Orewiler is the only one now living. Mr. and Mrs. Orewiler have become the parents of six children: Norris L., who is living in Mansfield; Mrs. Schafer; Charles T., whose home is in 575 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Wyandot county, Ohio; Hattie E., deceased; George A., who is living in Crestline, Ohio; and Orlie O., on the farm. Their daughter, Mrs. Schafer, was a graduate of the district schools of Richland county, and began teaching at the early age of fifteen years. She successfully followed that profession for fourteen years, or until she became the wife of Mr. Schafer. For the past eight years they have been conducting the hotel at Bellville, which they now own. They are both popular with the patrons of the house and they count many friends among the traveling public, as well as among their fellow townsmen. Mrs. Schafer is a representative of one of the oldest and most prominent pioneer families and greatly deserves the esteem in which she is held, for all who know her entertain for her the warmest and most sincere regard. MRS. REBECCA GARBER. Mrs. Rebecca Garber, residing on section 13, Jefferson township, on a fine farm near Bellville, was born in Pennsylvania, March 20, 1837, but was brought to Richland county by her parents in 1841, when about four years of age. She was one of a family of seven children, but only two are now living, her brother, George Wallace, being a resident of Knox county, Ohio. Her father, George Wallace, who was born February 6, 1805, in the Keystone state, died July 18, 1879, and her mother was born March 12, 1808, in Pennsylvania, and died September 12, 1878. Their daughter Rebecca spent her girlhood days under the parental roof, where she was carefully trained in the work of the household, so that she was well qualified to take charge of a home of her own when on the 19th of June, 1856, she gave her hand in marriage to Jehu Garber. Her husband was born in Jefferson township, this county, October 29, 1835, representing one of the old pioneer families. His father was Samuel Garber, who came to Richland county, Ohio, at a very early epoch in its development. In early life Jehu Garber engaged in teaching school, but in later years devoted his time and energies to farming with excellent results. He was the first secretary of the Grange in this county and was always interested in everything that pertained. to the agricultural development of the community. In his own farming operations he displayed a spirit of enterprise and progress and brought his land under a high state of cultivation. In 1864 he took up his abode upon a farm on section 34, Jefferson township, and there year after year he tilled the soil and carried on the work of the fields, his labors- making him one of the prosperous agriculturists of the community, and the beautiful brick house, one of the finest houses in Jefferson township, and the home of the Garber family, was built by Mr. Garber. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Garber were born ten children : Eleanora, the wife of John Watson, of this county; Irene, deceased; Clara A., the widow of Douglas Oyster, residing in Jefferson township; Ida May, who is at. home with her mother; Horatio C., also on the home farm ; James William, of Jef- HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 575 ferson county; John M., who lives in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; and Wallace, Merta E.. and Mamie D., all of whom have passed away. The death of the husband and father occurred February 6, 1903, and was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he had won the respect and sincere regard of many with whom. he came in contact. He was also a prominent and influential citizen of the community and served as county commissioner for seven years, discharging the duties of the office in a prompt and able manner, his fidelity being indicated by his long continuance in the position. He was a member of the Knights of Pythias and was well known for his good traits of heart and mind. He lived to the age of almost sixty-eight years and his entire life was passed in this county. Mrs. Garber still. survives her husband and is well known in Bellville and this locality. She is a member of the Universalist Church, and both in the church and outside of it she has gained many warm and sincere friends. WILLIAM REDING. In the history of the agricultural development of Richland county, mention should be made of William. Reding, who was born February 12, 1836, on the farm which he now owns and occupies in Weller township. He is a representative of one of the old pioneer families, representatives of the name having been associated with the history of the county for almost a century. His parents were Edward and Elizabeth (Like) Reding, who removed to this county in their 'teens. The father served as a soldier in the war of 1812, and after coming to Richland county he became a factor in the early development of this part of the state. It is hard to imagine what were the conditions which confronted him at the time of his arrival., for when one sees the highly cultivated farms and the thriving towns and villages it seems hardly possible that in the early part of the nineteenth century the land was still largely unclaimed and uncultivated. The forests stood just as they came from the hand of nature, the streams largely had to be forded, and only here and there had a settlement been made to indicate that the seeds of civilization had been planted in the western wilderness. As the years passed, Edward Reding carried on the farm work until his life's labors were ended in death, in 1860. His wife survived him for several years and passed away in 1868. They were the parents of nine children: John, Elizabeth, Sarah, Mary Ann, Daniel and Matthew, all deceased; Edward, who is living in Missouri; Jane, who has also passed away ; and William, of this review. In taking up the personal history of our subject, we present to our readers the life record of one who is very widely and favorably known in Richland county, from the fact that he has always lived here and has governed his life by such rules of conduct as have made him an honorable citizen and a successful man. His education was acquired in the public schools, and when not busy with his text-books he worked in the fields, thus assisting in carrying on the home farm. He was married when twenty years of age to Miss Susan 576 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Casner, who was born in this county and died in 1863. They were the parents of three children, but two are now deceased, the surviving daughter being Elizabeth, the wife of Allen Pittinger. In 1866 Mr. Reding was again married, his second union being with Miss Leah Saltzgaber, who was born in this county in 1843, a daughter of Samuel and Katharine Saltzgaber. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania, while her mother was born in Germany, and their last days were spent in this county. Their family numbered eight children, seven of whom are yet. living. Mrs. Reding spent her girlhood days under the parental roof, was educated in the public schools, and for three years in early life engaged in teaching. By her marriage she has become the mother of seven children : Milton and Calderwood, both at home; Katharine, deceased; Bertha B., at home; Floyd, of Arkansas; and two who are deceased, they having been the third and sixth in order of birth. The farm on which Mr. Reding now lives, section 35, Waller township, was willed to him by his father. It comprises eighty. acres of land which he has brought under a high state of cultivation, so that the fields annually bring forth rich and abundant crops. In all .of his work he is practical, and that he is interested in the agricultural development of the community at large is indicated by his membership in the Grange. In politics he is a democrat, has served as school director for several terms and has also been supervisor. He was one of the finest rifle shots in the county in his young days, and yet displays much skill in that direction. His wife is a member of the Lutheran church, and they are both well known in the community where they have an extensive circle of warm friends. DAVID W. CUMMINS. David W. Cummins, a capable representative of the profession of law to which the public must look for the conservation of its interests and the protection of its rights and privileges; is now enjoying a liberal patronage that is accorded only in recognition of genuine merit and capability. A native of Shelby, Ohio, he was born August 13, 1867, and is the younger of a family of two children, his sister being Mary C., now the wife of Judge Lewis Brucker, who is her brother's law partner. Their parents were David and Angeline P. (Taylor) Cummins. The father was born in Auburn township, Crawford county, Ohio, which was then a part of Richland county. For many years he engaged in merchandising in Shelby and in the latter years of his life was a traveling representative of a New York commission house. He was very well known in this section of the state and was prominent in the affairs of the northern part of the county. He died in Shelby, January 13, 1899. His wife, a native of Jackson township, Richland county, belonged to one of the pioneer families of this part of the state, who came from Connecticut in the early portion of the nineteenth century. She still survives at: the age of seventy years. While spending his boyhood days in his parents' home, David. W. Cummins pursued his education in the public schools and afterward attended Wit- HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 577 tenberg College at Springfield, Ohio. Thus he gained a good literary knowledge to serve as a foundation for his professional learning, when in 1891 he began preparation for the bar, reading law while employed as deputy clerk of the probate court of this county. Later he resigned his position and completed his law studies in the office of Skiles & Skiles at Shelby and was admitted to the bar in December, 1894. Shortly afterward he returned to Mansfield, where he entered upon the active practice of his profession and in 1897 he became associated with Lewis Brucker, which partnership has continued up to the present time He engages in general practice and his clientage is large and of a distinctively representative character. He has confined his attention almost exclusively to his practice and is an able lawyer, diligent in research, careful in the preparation of his cases and clear and concise in his presentation of his cause in the courts. Moreover, he is systematic and methodical in habit, sober and discreet in judgment and devotedly attached to his profession. On the 23.d of June, 1897, Mr. Cummins was married to Miss Jane David, a daughter of P. K. David, of Garrett, Indiana, and they have one son, David R., who was born. October 26, 1901. Mr. Cummins owns his own home at No. 32 Sherman avenue, which he built in 1903. He is a member of Mansfield Lodge, No. 35, F. & A. M. the Mansfield Lodge of Elks; Madison Lodge K. of P.; Mansfield Camp of the Woodmen of the World; and Mansfield Tent of the Knights of Maccabees. He also belongs to the Phi Gama Delta, a college fraternity. Since age conferred upon him the right of fran chise he has been a democrat and has been active in the local ranks of his party since attaining his majority. In April, 1908, he received its nomination for the office of probate judge. He is an active member of the Central. Methodist Episcopal church of Mansfield. His interests are those of a. public-spirited citizen who recognizes that there is more to life than the winning of financial independence and is never neglectful of his duties to his fellowmen and his city. CALVIN ROBINSON. Calvin Robinson is entitled to credit as a self-made man, for all that he today possesses has been acquired through his own thrift, energy and well directed labors. He has devoted many years to general agricultural pursuits but is now living practically retired in a comfortable home, surrounded by two acres of land and he also owns a valuable farm comprising one hundred and sixty acres, situated on section 16, Jefferson township, this being operated by his son. Mr. Robinson is a native of Richland county, his birth having occurred on a farm in Jefferson township, January 25, 1837, and is the only child born of the marriage of William and Maria (Lafferty) Robinson, the former born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, while the latter was born in Harrison county, Ohio. As stated, the father was born in Westmoreland county in 1807, and when a young lad, was taken to Mercer county, that state, while the year 1814 witnessed his arrival. in Richland county, Ohio. Here he was engaged in farming, meeting with more than ordinary success. 578 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY His death occurred in 1883 and he was survived by his wife for ten years, her death occurring in 1893, when she was seventy-six years of age. Calvin Robinson acquired his education in the district schools near his father's home and remained under the parental. roof until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted, May 2, 1864, for service, in the Union army as a member of Company D, One Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was on garrison duty for three weeks at Fort Reno. When at Fort Pocahontas he contracted a fever and for a time was in a hospital at Hampton, Virginia. He was mustered out of service September 10, 1864. After returning from the army Mr. Robinson once more resumed the pursuit of a business life and on the 19th of January, 1865, established a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Elizabeth Leedy. To this union have been born six children, all of whom still survive, namely : William G., who is farming in Beaver, North Dakota; Margaret, at home; Mary, the wife of Levi Fry, a farmer of Jefferson township ; John C., who is operating the old home place; Fred, at home; and George L., who is on a sheep ranch at Beaver, North Dakota. Mr. Robinson proudly cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, but later was identified with the prohibition party, and at the present time supports the principles of democracy. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Grange, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church at Bellville, to which his wife also belongs. Mr. Robinson is a man who is today as loyal to his community and her welfare as he was to his country in the dark days of the Civil war. Having spent his entire life in Richland county he has a very wide acquaintance, not only in his home locality, but throughout the entire county and no man is more familiar with the development and improvement that time and man have wrought in the past seven decades than is Mr. Robinson, and now in the evening of life he. can enjoy a well, earned rest, feeling that his labors have been well spent in former years. B. F. PALMER. B. F. Palmer, now living retired in Mansfield, is one to whom much credit is due for the success he has achieved, as it has been won entirely through his own efforts.. Placing his dependence upon substantial qualities of self-reliance, energy and keen executive force he has steadily worked his way upward and being now numbered among the men of affluence in the community is enabled to enjoy the fruits of his former toil in well earned rest: He was born in Pennsylvania in 1853 and was the sixth in order of birth in a family of nine children, whose parents were Joseph and Catherine (Flack) Palmer, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. He pursued his education in the public schools of his native state and no event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of life for him in his boyhood, for his attention HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 579 was given to the duties of the schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground and the work of the home farm. He came to Richland county in 1876 when a young man of twenty-three years of age and here commenced his life as a farmer. He is now owner of one hundred and thirty-five acres of rich and valuable land in Franklin township, from which he derives a gratifying annual income. For a long period he tilled the soil and cultivated the crops but is now living retired. In his farm Work he was progressive and energetic, brought his fields under a high state of cultivation and followed the most modern methods of farming so that the place which was under his charge always presented a most attractive appearance. On the 4th of March, 1890, Mr. Palmer was united in marriage to Miss Olive Wirts, who was born in Richland county, Ohio, in 1858. They have two children : Charles W., and Charlotte Catherine, who are yet under the parental roof. Mr. Palmer belongs to the Lutheran church and is in hearty sympathy with movements that tend to promote progress in the community along material, intellectual, social and moral lines. He gives his political support to the democratic party and has always taken an active interest in politics, greatly desiring the adoption of the principles in which he believes, for he feels that the best interests of good government will be conserved thereby. He was connected with the Richland 'County Infirmary for a term of twenty-seven years aid during the last fifteen years of that time was its superintendent. He has made his own way in life from early age and has made steady progress, not only in business lines, but in winning the regard which all men covet and which is given in recognition of genuine personal worth and the observance of one's duties and obligations to their fellowmen. CLARK W. MOMYER. Clark W. Momyer, a successful farmer and stock-raiser of Butler township, was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, February 14, 1855, his parents being Joseph C. and Eliza (Blackstone) Momyer, also natives of the Keystone state. The father passed away in Pennsylvania in 1905, but the mother is still living in that state. Unto this worthy couple were born nine children, namely : Mary E., the wife of Henry Wingert; Clark W., of this review; William A., Scott J. and Charles V., all of whom reside in Pennsylvania; Elizabeth, the wife of George McComack, of Richland county; May, who is the wife of Clyde Berkheart and makes her home in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; George A., who is also a resident of the Keystone state; and Alice, the deceased wife of Jesse Walton. Clark W. Momyer acquired a common school education and remained working at the carpenter's trade for two years. In 1877 he came to Richland under the parental roof until he had attained the age of twenty-two years, county, Ohio, and was employed at the stave trade for two years, on the expiration of which period he rented a farm, being successfully engaged in its operation for sixteen years. Subsequently he purchased one hundred and 580 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY fifty acres of land on section 36, Butler township, where he has since resided, annually gathering golden harvests as a reward for the care and labor he bestows upon his fields. In addition to the work of general farming he makes a specialty of raising sheep and hogs, both branches of this business bringing him a gratifying financial return. In 1879 Mr. Momyer was united in marriage to Miss Lurinda McCormic, whose birth occurred in Richland county in 1861, and who was one of a family of fourteen Children. Unto our subject and his wife have been born six children, as follows: Floyd J., the wife of W. J. Seaton, of this county ; J. D., also a resident of Richland county; Malinda M., the wife of Hansel Mury, of Huron county, Ohio; Rilda R., who is the wife of Ralph Ryland, and makes her home in Ashland county, Ohio; Louie, at home, and Mary L., who is also with her parents. In his political views Mr. Momyer is a stalwart republican and has capably served his fellow townsmen as school director and supervisor. Both he and his wife are faithful and devoted members of the Christian church, and are highly esteemed and respected people of the cpmmunity in which they have so long resided. A. B. LEEDY. Farming has constituted the life work of A. B. Leedy, who is now the owner of a good tract comprising one hundred and nineteen acres, situated in Jefferson township, Richland county. He was born on a farm in this county, October 18, 1840, a son of Daniel and Saloma (Brown) Leedy, the former born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1796, while the mother's birth occurred near Canton, in Stark county, Ohio. The father had been previously married, this union being with Susanna Hulsinger, also of the Keystone state, and by that union there were five children, all of whom are now deceased. The father came to Richland county in 1821 and here entered land from the government and removed his family to this tract in September, 1824. Upon this tract he built a log cabin in which he lived until 1859 and here engaged in agricultural pursuits throughout his remaining days, or until his death, which occurred January 16, 1873. A. B. Leedy, whose name introduces this review, is one of a family of ten children born of the father's second marriage, but only two of the number survive, his brother being Levi Leedy, a farmer residing near Fremont. Mr. Leedy was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, working in the fields during the summer season, while during the winter months he attended the common schools, wherein he mastered the branches of learning taught in the schools at that early day. He remained with his father until the latter's death, when he came into possession of one hundred and nineteen acres of land, which he has improved and on which he has since made his home. He has placed the land under a good state of cultivation, so that each year it returns to him golden harvests as a result of the care and labor bestowed upon the fields. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 583 It was on the 11th of August, 1862, that Mr. Leedy put aside all business and personal considerations and offered his services to the government in defense of the Union, becoming a member of Company E, One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteers. He participated in many hotly contested engagements, among these being Athens and Pulaski. He served for a period of three years and at the time of his discharge was serving as corporal. Mr. Leedy chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Miss Mary Oldfield, to whom he was .married on the 24th of March, 1867, and to this union were born the following children : One who died in infancy; Elma, the wife of George Steckler; Silas, at home; Lientellas, deceased; Melvin, who has served as assessor of Jefferson township and is at home; Lewis, who has also passed away ; Walter, deceased; Noah, who is engaged in railroading; Elmina and two who died in infancy. Mr. Leedy is in accord with the principles of the republican party, but is not bound by party ties, voting rather for men and measures than for party. He is identified with the Grand Army of the Republic and with Jefferson Grange. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor, and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of Richland county. JAMES EPHRAIM BROWN. James Ephraim Brown, of Mansfield, is one of the upbuilders of what is today among the most extensive and best equipped plants of the kind in the country, for he is president of the Aultman-Taylor Machinery Company, one of the most important industrial concerns of Mansfield. He has displayed in his business career such fertility of resource, marked enterprise and well defined plans as to deserve classification with the "captains of industry" who are controlling the trade relations of the country. He was born at North Bloomfield in Trumbull county, Ohio, March 21, 1846. His father, James Monroe Brown, was also a native of North Bloomfield, born April 2, 1818. He was engaged in the wool business in Massillon, Ohio, and later in the manufacture of agricultural implements there. He wedded Mary E. Hicks, a daughter of Samuel Hicks, of New Hartford, New York, and his death occurred in 1869, while his wife survived until 1893. In tracing back the ancestral history of the family it is found that the grandfather of James Ephraim Brown was a native of England and on coming to America located in Westmoreland, New Hampshire. He was connected with the Huntington family, which included Samuel Huntington, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, while General Hezekiah Hunt ington was the first to take a regiment to Philadelphia and was the first man in the United States to engage in the manufacture of firearms. In the family of James Monroe and Mary E. Brown there were six children, three of whom are living, including Huntington Brown, the present mayor of Mansfield, and Mrs. M. D. Harter, whose husband was the congressman from the fourteenth 584 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY district of Ohio. He was twice elected from a district which formerly gave a republican majority of two thousand and he ran about four thousand votes ahead of his ticket. James E. Brown was educated in a private school of Bloomfield and in the high school at Massillon, Ohio, from which he was graduated in 1864. He then pursued a course in Eastman's Business College at Poughkeepsie, New York, and on its completion went to New York city, where he was engaged in the wool business for about three years. The succeeding three years were spent in a similar manner in Boston, Massachusetts, and in 1871 he returned to Massillon, where he purchased a hardware business, which he conducted until 1878. In October of that year he came to Mansfield and entered the employ of the Aultman-Taylor Company as assistant to M. D. Harter, who was then manager. In 1881 Mr. Brown was elected secretary of the AultmanTaylor Company, which position he filled until 1891, when the Aultman-Taylor Company sold to the Aultman-Taylor Machinery Company, since which time Mr. Brown has been its president. This company is capitalized for one million dollars and is engaged in building traction engines, threshing machinery and sawmills,. doing a business that amounts to a million and a half dollars yearly and employs between five and six hundred people. It is the largest single industry in the city and through its pay roll two hundred and fifty thousand dollars are annually distributed here. Mr. Brown is also vice president and director of the Mansfield Savings Bank and he has land and coal interests in West Virginia that are of -considerable importance, comprising the Galligo Land & Coal Company and the Ohio Timber Company. On the 24th of April, 1872, Mr. Brown was married at Massillon, Ohio, to Miss Isabella Hurxthal, a daughter of Louis Hurxthal, a banker of Massillon. Of this marriage one son was born, James Monroe Brown, who is now assistant manager of the Casey Hedges Company of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Mrs. Isabella Brown died July 7, 1891. On the 3d of January, 1901, Mr. Brown was married at Mansfield to Miss Katherine Holway, a daughter of William Holway, a retired merchant of this city. Their children are : Ephraim Holway, born May 18, 1902; and Mary Katherine, born December 13, 1903. In his political views Mr. Brown is a republican and has always taken a general interest in local political affairs, He is a member of Mansfield Lodge, No. 28, A. F. & A. M. ; Mansfield Chapter, R. A. M., and also the council and commandery and Dayton consistory of the Scottish Rite. He was worshipful master of Mansfield lodge for one year, high priest of Mansfield chapter for ten years and captain general of Mansfield commandery for twenty-five years, while for one year he was its eminent commander. He also belongs to the Mystic Club and to the Our Club, the latter of which he has been president for twenty-five years, and is a member and director of the West Brook Country Club. He likewise belongs to Grace Episcopal church, in which he has been senior warden and lay reader for a quarter of a century. He is a patron of music, much interested in literature and possesses one of Mansfield's most complete libraries of standard works. Both Mr. and Mrs. Brown are quite active and prominent in social circles. Mrs. Brown is an accomplished musician, who has sung a great deal in public, having been HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 585 leading soprano of the Congregational church for a number of years prior to her marriage, and she is still much interested in church and charitable work. Such in brief is the life history of one who has gained recognition as a most prominent citizen here. Not so abnormally developed in any direction as to be called a genius, he has, however, been one of the most active men of Mansfield, identified for many years with its business interests and public concerns. He has given tangible proof of his devotion to the plans and measures which are promulgated for the public weal, and his life record proves that there is no discordant element between success and honesty. U. P. BACKENSTO. U. P. Backensto, who is extensively engaged in farming in Weller township, where, in addition to the cultivation of his own farm of eighty acres, he has under lease three hundred acres additional, is a native of this county, having been born in Weller township, July 13, '1853, the son of Jacob and Hannah (Fox) Backensto. Both parents were natives of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, whence they came to Ohio in 1828 and bought land in Weller township, where they resided continuously throughout the remainder of their lives. The mother died in 1886, and the father in 1896. Eight children were born to this union, namely: Irene, the deceased wife of A. M. Seeten; Mary, the wife of J. W. Fickes, of Weller township ; Anthony J., a resident of Rome, this county; U. P., of this review ; J. E., a resident of this county ; Ida, the wife of I. L. Pitenger, of Indiana; Lelia, the wife of Isaac Oswalt, a resident of Mansfield; and Lillie., the wife of J. E. Beveridge, of Greenwich, Huron county, Ohio. U. P. Backensto is indebted to the district school of his home neighborhood for his education. This he attended regularly throughout the school year while in the primary grades, but as he reached the advanced grades his studies were more or less interrupted by his duties at home. He aided his father in the work of the place up to the time he attained his majority, after which he worked the place on shares for seven years. From his experience in raising stock and making sales of same he conceived the idea that it would be more profitable to retail them over the block, and with this intention he engaged in the butcher business for two years, but he found the routine detail work uncongenial and too confining for one of his ambition, hence he gave it up and bought a farm, on which he remained for twelve years, and is this year, as stated above, farming some three hundred and eighty odd acres of land, the mere fact of which attests his ambition and enterprise. On January 9, 1879, Mr. Backensto was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Edmonds, who was laid to rest at Olivesburg, Ohio, in 1907, after a companionship of something over twenty-eight years. Mrs. Backensto was a native of Ashland county and was one of five children. Her mother is still living at Olivesburg, but the father is deceased. Mrs. Backensto died on May 30, 1907, and in addition to her bereaved husband she left five children to 586 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY mourn her loss, namely: Luella, the wife of C. M. Tucker, of Richland county; Leo, who resides at home; Omar, a resident of this county; Blanche, the wife of C. M. Moore, of this county, and Nellie; the wife of Frank Bruce, of Ashland, Ohio. Politically Mr. Backensto is .a stanch republican, and he is at present township assessor, an office which he has now held for two terms. Religiously he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and throughout his life his dealings have been characterized by a tried integrity and worth that have gained for him the esteem and confidence of the community. JOHN CAHALL. John Cahall is doing effective and commendable work as a member of the public service commission of Mansfield, and in his citizenship is at all times actuated by a loyalty to the public welfare that is never called into question. He has, moreover, been well known in connection with the industrial interests of the city, being for more than two decades connected with the firm of Aultman-Taylor. A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Cahall was born in Berks county on the 24th of June, 1846, and is a son of John and .Lydia (Thompson) Cahall, natives of Ireland and Scotland, respectively. Coming to America in early life, however, they were married in Reading, Pennsylvania. John Cahall, Jr., was a youth of ten years when he left his native city and took up his abode upon a farm near Wilmington, Delaware, where he remained for about seven years. Thinking to find other pursuits more congenial than an agricultural life, he then returned to Reading and entered upon an apprenticeship at the boilermaker's trade in the railroad shops of that city. When his term of indenture had ended and he had become an expert workman he removed to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and for about seven years occupied the responsible position of foreman of the Robert Tippett boiler works. During the succeeding four years he was engaged in business in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, Sand the year 1877 witnessed his arrival in Mansfield. Mr. Cahall took up his abode here in the month of May and entered the employ of Flannigan & Sullivan, with whom he continued for two years. In January, 1879, he entered the service of Aultman-Taylor, with which firm he was connected for about thirty years. Well known as an expert mechanic and fine workman, his position was one of responsibility and he was for a long period one of the most trusted representatives of the house. He and his son William are inventors and patentees of the Cahall boilers, now in general use in this country, while many have been shipped abroad. In 1867 was celebrated the marriage of John Cahall and Miss Sarah Ritner, of Reading, Pennsylvania, a niece of Governor Ritner of that state. Unto them were born a daughter and two sons: Mary A., now the wife of George 0. McFarland; of Butte, Montana; and John T. and William H., both residents of Racine, Wisconsin. In 1873, having lost his first wife, Mr. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 587 Cahall in 1881 wedded Helen Eliza Holeywell, of Mansfield, Ohio, and they now have three sons: Fred H., Raymond De Vose and Leslie. The family attend the Episcopal church, and Mr. Cahall, as one of its prominent and leading members, has served as a vestryman and takes a most active and helpful part in its work. In Masonry he has attained the Knight Templar degree, belonging now to Mansfield Commandery, No. 21. Community affairs are of deep interest to him and citizenship is to him no mere idle word. He recognizes the duty of each individual to do the best he can for the community in which he lives and to uphold his principles at the polls. He is a stalwart advocate of the republican party in national affairs, but otherwise believes in voting for the man and not the party. Mr. Cahall has served as a member of the city council for two terms and through appointment of Mayor Brown became one of the four members constituting the sanitary and garbage commission, having in charge the sanitary interests of the city. He is still doing effective and beneficial work. as a member of the public service commission, and his course is one which receives the endorsement of all those interested in the welfare of the city. JOHN CLARK SKILES. John Clark Skiles, who passed from this life in 1906, was for many years a prominent citizen here and one whose efforts in behalf of public progress were far-reaching and beneficial. He was born on a farm three miles south of Shelby, Ohio, on the 22d of February, 1855. The place was then known as the Dr. Bricker farm and was one of the old settled places of the community. As boy and youth he worked in the fields, living with his parents in this locality up to the time of his marriage. He soon became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and in all of his farm work he made good use of his opportunities. On the 30th of November, 1882, he was united in marriage to Miss Lovina Bargahiser and unto them were born two sons, Clifford and Howard. At the time of his marriage Mr. Skiles went to live upon his father-in-law's farm, which he cultivated for sixteen years. It comprises two hundred and sixty-five acres of arable land, one-half of which belongs to his widow. He continued his farming operations with success until 1897, when he was called from private life to public office, having in that year been elected on the democratic ticket to the position of county commissioner of Richland county. The duties of this office were faithfully performed and for six years he also served as trustee of Sharon township. He was most capable and loyal and his service won him high commendation. At his reelection in November, 1900, he received a majority of twelve hundred and eighty-five, the largest vote given to any candidate on the ticket. In his fraternal relations Mr. Skiles was a Knight of Pythias and was also connected with the Pathfinders and the Tribe of Ben Hur. He had hosts of friends of all political and religious beliefs and was widely known 588 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY as an industrious, honest and successful citizen, who was greatly esteemed by all of the old settlers in his part of Richland county. He died January 3, 1906, after an illness covering a number of months. Death came to him as a welcome release, but it 'was the hope of his many friends that he might be spared further suffering and be restored to health. His death, therefore, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for men had learned to correctly value his worth and found in him a citizen who was loyal to the public welfare, was faithful in friendship and most devoted to the interests of his family. He was a representative of one of the old and prominent families here, and the name of Skiles figures prominently on the pages of Richland county's history, while at all times it has been synonymous with those things which are considered of most value in the world, especially in character development. JAMES W. VINSON. Among the prominent and wealthy citizens of Richland county is numbered James W. Vinson, who is a native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred in Bloomfield township, Knox county, which is now Morrow county, June 21, 1833. The paternal grandfather, James Vinson, was a native of England and served in the war of 1812, being drafted for service at Baltimore, Maryland. He followed farming as a life work and removed from Maryland to Dayton, Ohio, near which city he owned and operated a farm, on which he passed away. His family numbered eight children, of whom John became the father of our subject. He was a native of Maryland and after coming with his parents to the Buckeye state learned the stonecutter's trade in Dayton. He was married to Miss Marian Needles, who was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, after which he entered a tract of land in Bloomfield township, Morrow county, and there followed farming throughout the remainder of his life.. He reared a family of thirteen children. James W. Vinson, whose name introduces this review, was reared to farm life and acquired his education, in the district schools. He was early trained to the duties of the. farm and remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority. He then started out upon an independent business venture, coming, to Richland county. He spent three years in Plymouth, during which time he learned the stone-cutter's trade. He then removed to Shelby and in connection with David Harsheiser engaged in the marble business, the firm being conducted under the name of Harsheiser & Vinson. At the end of the first year Mr. Vinson sold his interest to his partner and invested his money in his present farm, comprising eighty-eight acres, situated on section 23, Jackson township, where he has made his home since 1864. He has resided in this county, however, since 1859, with the exception of one year. He engaged in the marble :business in connection with general agricultural pursuits, being thus engaged for eight years, during which time he had in his employ seven and eight men. He then disposed of the marble HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 589 business and gave his entire time and attention to agricultural pursuits for many years, but although he still makes his home on his farm; he is now practically living retired, leaving the actual work of the farm to others. On his place stood an old log church when Mr. Vinson took possession of the place, being known as the Sheriff church, but in later years it has been torn down and a new church erected, which is known as Mt. Bethel church. In addition to his home farm he also has an interest in one . hundred acres of land situated in Marion county. For eight years he was also engaged in buying and selling horses, and in this connection met with very gratifying success. He has always based his business principles and actions upon strict adherence to the rules which govern economy, industry and unswerving integrity, and the position to which he has now attained is well deserved. Mr. Vinson has been four times married. He first wedded Miss Catherine Lantz, by whom he had one daughter, Mrs. Anna C. Hartman, a widow making her home in Shelby. He next married Mrs. Katharine Ott Laser, a widow with two children, and by that union there is one son, Curtis, now of Chicago. For his third wife Mr. Vinson wedded Mrs. Margaret Hastings Stewart, and his last union was with Mrs. Rebecca Vinson Snyder, a cousin, and a daughter of Buffet Vinson. A democrat in principle and practice, Mr. Vinson believes in a faith born of conviction in the equality and brotherhood of man. He is a member of the Lutheran church. The success which Mr. Vinson today enjoys is due to his own efforts, for he has made good use of his opportunities. He is a man of broad and comprehensive views and looks upon the world as he finds it, and is therefore conservative rather than radical. The people of Richland county look upon him as an exemplary man who is always the same honorable and honored gentleman, whose worth well merits the high regard which is uniformly given him. ISAAC BEVIER. Isaac Bevier follows the occupation of farming on section 30, Plymouth township, and was formerly connected with industrial interests, being engaged in the operation of a sawmill. Richland county numbers him among her native sons, for his birth occurred in Plymouth township, February 18, 1862, his father being Isaac Bevier, a pioneer resident of the county, who came from Cayuga county, New York. There were two children in the family, the daughter being Rachel Rebecca, now the wife of L. W. Champion, of this township. The mother, Mrs. Sarah Bevier, was born in Sharon township, this county, February 13, . 1825, and died February 3, 1908. She always lived in this locality and was a daughter of Jedediah and Rebecca Morehead, who were natives of West Virginia and came to this county in 1818, leading the life of the typical pioneer who faces the dangers and privations of the frontier in order to secure a home, thus planting the seeds of civilization which in due time result in the progress and prosperity of modern civilization. Mrs. 590 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Bevier was married three times. Her first marriage was to John Stentz, by whom she had one son, Henry, who was born in 1852 and died in 1868. In 1860 she became the wife of Mr. Bevier and following his death she was married, on the 13th of January, 1866, to Joseph Downing, who died April 17, 1875, at the age of seventy-three years. He was a native of England and was born in 1795. Isaac Bevier has always resided upon or near the old home farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He was for eighteen years engaged in the operation of a sawmill in Plymouth township in connection with his half-brother, J. J. Downing, and the firm style was Downing & Bevier. They conducted an extensive business along both wholeiale and retail, lines and used nine teams. They would purchase timber land, then cut the trees and manufacture the lumber, which was largely ,exported to Liverpool, England, and also shipped to various points in the United States. The business proved a profitable venture and was successfully carried on until September, 1906, when the mill was destroyed by fire, and then, owing to the scarcity of timber in this region, they did. not again start in business. Mr: Bevier has since been giving his attention to farming and has eighty acres of the. old homestead. The farm presents a neat and well kept appearance and his energy and enterprise are manifest in the. success which attends. him in the production of crops. In his political views Mr. Bevier has always been a stanch republican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. In the spring of 1900. he was elected trustee of Plymouth township and by reelection was continued in the office until the 2d of January, 1908, when he declined to serve longer. He had proved himself a: most capable official, making an excellent record in the prompt and faithful discharge of his duties. On the 11th of April, 1889, Mr. Bevier was married to Miss Elizabeth Shilling, a native of Crawford county, Ohio, and a daughter of David and Marion Shilling. Unto them have been born two children, Isaac Harrison and Nellie. Mr. Bevier is justly classed among the enterprising men whose business ability has placed them in the front ranks among the leading citizens of Plymouth township. He has always lived in this county and the fact that many of his warmest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood indicates that his life has been at all times honorable and upright. HISTORY OF Richland County OHIO FROM 1808 TO 1908 By A. J. BAUGHMAN Also Biographical Sketches of Prominent Citizens of the County ILLUSTRATED VOL. II. CHICAGO: THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING CO. 1908 BIOGRAPHICAL HON. MARTIN. B. BUSHNELL. Hon. Martin B. Bushnell is a prominent citizen of Mansfield whose life of activity and straightforward purpose and successful accomplishment has made him one of the most honored residents of this, his native city. He was born July 13, 1837, and is a representative of one of the old and prominent pioneer families of Ohio. The Bushnells have figured in connection with the upbuilding,of the state since 1805 and have been widely And prominently known in Richland county since 1820 in which year Sterling G. Bushnell, the grandfather of Martin B. Bushnell, settled in Vermilion township. The ancestral history is one distinctively American in both its lineal and collateral branches for many generations. Francis Bushnell; the founder of the family in the new world, sailed from England in the early part of the seventeenth century and remained a resident of Connecticut until his death in 1646. The family had been represented in Richland county for eight years When in July, 1828, Dr. William Bushnell, father of Martin B. Bushnell, became a resident of Mansfield. He left the impress of his individuality upon the public life of the city in many ways. He displayed marked ability in professional labors and was also prominent in public affairs and successful in finance. His fellow townsmen called him to public office and in the forty-ninth, fiftieth and fifty-eighth general assemblies he represented his district in the state legislature. While a member of the assembly. he was associated with the Hon. Henry B. Payne, General E. R.Eckley, Hon: Harvey Rice, Hon. John F. Follett and others who later attained national distinction. Dr: Bushnell was a man of keen discernment, clear in his reasoning and from known conditions deducted logical. conclusions. These qualities were manifest in his legislative career and he did important work in connection with important constructive legislation. His ambitions, however were not in political lines, but citizenship was to him no idle word and when his fellow townsmen expressed a desire. that he serve them in public office he did not hesitate. His 4ife, too, exemplified the expression of Grover Cleveland that "a public office is a public trust" and he gave in unstinted measure of his - 595 - 596 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY ability, time and labor for the benefit of his constituents and the best interests of the commonwealth. After three terms in the assembly, hdwever, he declined further political preferment and resumed the practice of medicine. He always regarded this as his life work and made it a field Of service for his fellowmen, actuated in all of his professional duties by a. broad humanitarianism and most earnest desire to serve those among whom he lived. Full of years and honors, he. passed away at the age of ninety-four, his life record being 'terminated on the 13th day of January, 1894. His memory, however, is yet sacredly cherished by those who were his colleagues and associates while he was still an active factor in the affairs of life. Martin B. Bushnell is fortunate in that he has back of him an ancestry honorable and distinguished and is happy in that his lines of life have been cast in harmony therewith. Like his father, he has cared little for official honors and emoluments, although he was once democratic candidate for state senator and on that occasion-1897-polled a vote far in excess of the general ticket. A life-long resident of Mansfield, he was educated in its public schools and in Norwalk Institute at Norwalk, Ohio, and Dennison University at Granville, this state, spending the year 1852 as a student in the former and the year 1856 in the latter institution. Entering upon his business career, he was first employed as salesman in the dry goods store of Scattergood & Penrose and later represented in a similar capacity the book houses of Ticknor & Sturges and Ticknor & Rowland. He passed from this position to that of clerk. in the ticket office. of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad Company at Crestline, Ohio, and through the period of the Civil war was connected with train service. Successive promotions followed as he became a clerk in the freight department, afterward in the yardmaster's office and still later a conductor between Crestline and Pittsburg. In the last named capacity he at first has charge of a freight train but his ability soon gained him recognition in an appointment as conductor of the finest and fastest express and passenger train. He was one of four conductors chosen by the superintendent to run special trains promptly to handle government business in both small and large consignments. After four years' service on the road Mr. Bushnell accepted the general agency at Mansfield, Ohio, for the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad, then known as the Broad Gauge Line, now a part of the Erie system. Accepting the position of general agent of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway, operated by the Pennsylvania Company, Mr. Bushnell continued in that position for many years at Mansfield. He also became connected with important business enterprises of the county, especially as a representative. of its financial interests. He was the cashier of the Richland National Bank, of Mansfield, and a director in both the Mansfield Savings Bank and the Richland Sayings Bank: A little thoughtful consideration of his career will indicate something of his constantly expanding powers and developing executive ability and administrative force. He is now numbered among, the capitalists of the city as the result of well conducted business affairs and judicious investment. His entire business career has been actuated by a fidelity of purpose and unfaltering integrity of methods HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 597 that has made his name an honored one among those with whom he has been associated, while his course has won him the admiration of all who know aught of his career. His business record would alone entitle him to representation among the prominent residents of Richland county but there is another side to his nature which is well known to his fellow-citizens, not because of any ostentation or display but because his labors have been of so beneficial a character in charitable and benevolent lines. In 1899 he was appointed by Governor Bushnell a delegate to the National Society of Charities and Corrections art. Austin, Texas, and Governor. Nash in 1901 selected him to serve as a delegate to a similar convention at Washington, D. C. He was appointed by the governor a trustee of the Columbus State Hospital at Columbus, Ohio, which is said to be the largest in the world. He has brought to bear in his work in these connections not only ability similar to that manifest in his business career but also the broad humanitarian spirit which prompts earnest and effective effort for the amelioration of hard conditions of life for mankind. In municipal affairs Mr. Bushnell has been deeply interested and his co-operation has been an important factor in many movements of municipal progress and improvement. He served for twelve years as a director. of the public schools and advocated substantial advancement in methods of instruc¬ton. He has been a trustee of the Mansfield cemetery and has from the beginning been a commissioner of the Sherman-Heineman Park. Whatever tends to promote the city's development along lines of material, intellectual, moral or aesthetic progress. finds in him an active cooperant. In 1900 he presented to the city a monument to the memory of John Chapman and in so honoring a fellowman his name became inseparably associated with this gift. the city, which is now seen in Middle Park. Chapman was a unique figure in the development of Pennsylvania and Ohio, widely known as Johnny Appleseed from the fact that he labored so earnestly for the development of orchards through the distribution and planting of apple seeds that those who came after him might enjoy the fruits of his sowing. Mr. Bushnell thus recognizing the beauty of a life that lived not for its own time but for a future generation as well, erected a monument to John Chapman and it was dedicated under the auspices of the Richland County Historical Society. This is but one of many instances of Mr. Bushnell's broad spirit and generous nature. He has never allowed the accumulation of wealth to in any way affect his relations to those less fortunate than himself. He judges a fellow- man by his character and not by his possessions and as the years have gone by he has won a place for himself in the hearts of his fellow townsmen that makes him a worthy successor of an honored father and will. cause the name of Bushnell to be revered in Mansfield for years to come. Mr. Bushnell united with the Congregational church of Mansfield early in life. and has ever since been a faithful and consistent member of the same, regularly attending its services, contributing to its support and living a life consistent with his Christian profession. Mrs. Bushnell is also a member of the Congregational church, and is noted for her goodness of heart and her exemplary Christian life. 598 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY On the 28th of July, 1908, Mr. Bushnell was unanimously elected an honorary Member of McLaughlin Post, No. 131, G. A. R., of Mansfield. He has held many positions of honor, trust and responsibility, in the discharge of the duties of which he has ever shown inflexible integrity, which early secured for him the full confidence of the people. He has an enviable popularity, is interested in public improvements and is liberal in his views and with his means. Mr. Bushnell is a gentleman of fine sensibility and polished manner, and is the very soul of honor. He is stanch in principle, clear in perception and decided in character. He deserves the good things which have come to him and the high character for probity which years of business and social acquaintance have brought him. Few men can look back over the vista of years and view a better record than the one enjoyed by the subject of this sketch, who now, in the golden time of matured manhood is held high in the esteem of his fellow citizens and has the affection of his associates and co-workers for the betterment of mankind. GEORGE W. GEDDES. There are few men whose lives are crowned with the honor and respect which was universally accorded Judge George W. Geddes, but through long connection with the history of Richland county and the state his was an unblemished character. He was one of the world's workers, assisting materially in laying the foundation for the stability, progress and substantial growth of his home locality and the commonwealth. George W. Geddes was born July 16, 1824, in Knox county, Ohio, but in his childhood days was brought to Richland county by his. father, James Geddes, and was here reared to the age of fifteen pursuing his education in the public schools. On putting aside his text-books he returned to Mount Vernon, where he accepted a clerkship in the employ of James Huntsberry, a prominent merchant of that city, and that he was most faithful and capable is indicated by the fact that he remained there for about six years, or until nearly twenty-one years of age. He did not care to make merchandising his life work, however, for it was his desire to become a member of the bar and to this end he devoted all of the hours which are usually termed leisure tofamiliarizing himself with the text-books of that profession. He had thereby gained considerable knowledge of the law when he entered the office of Hon. Columbus Delano as a student. Under his direction he made rapid progress in his studies, so that at the end of a year he was admitted to the bar and well qualified, entering upon active practice. In November, 1845, Mr. Geddes came to Mansfield to begin his professional career and had his first trial brought before a justice of the peace, with James, Stewart, then one of the leading lawyers of Mansfield. Mr. Stewart was so favorably impressed with his young opponent's skillful management of the HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 599 case that he urged Mr. Geddes to locate in Mansfield. This he did and for two years had his office with Mr. Stewart, after which he became his law partner in 1847. The relation was maintained until 1850 and was then terminated by the fact that Mr. Stewart was elected judge of the court of common pleas. Mr. Geddes then entered into partnership with Jacob Brinkerhoff, with whom he was associated until Mr. Brinkerhoff was elected to the Supreme bench of Ohio, in 1855. The following year Mr. Geddes received the democratic nomination for common pleas judge, with his former law partner and benefactor, Judge Stewart, as his opponent. The election showed that Judge Geddes was the choice of the people, and in 1861, at a district convention of the democratic and republican parties, he was renominated and reelected without opposition. In 1866 he became a candidate for the third term, but at this election was defeated by seventeen votes, although he ran five hundred votes ahead of his ticket—a fact which indicated his personal popularity and the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens. Not long after this the legislature created an enactment providing for an additional judge in this judicial subdistrict and Judge Geddes was again nominated and elected in 1868. Upon the expiration of his third term he retired permanently from the bench and resumed the practice of law. His course on the bench had been in harmony with his record as a man and also distinguished by the utmost fidelity to duty and by a comprehensive understanding of the legal principles involved. In 1872 he was placed in nomination by the democracy of Ohio for supreme court judge, but the entire state ticket was defeated that year. When Judge Geddes again took up the practice of law he formed a partnership with Moses R. Dickey and John W. Jenner, under the firm style of Geddes, Dickey & Jenner. Mr. Dickey was later elected to the common pleas bench, while Mr. Jenner became a judge on the circuit bench of this judicial district. On the expiration of Judge Dickey's official term the partnership relations between him and Judge Geddes were resumed. The firm was a very strong one and enjoyed a most extensive clientage. Few lawyers have made a more lasting impression upon the bar of the state, both for legal ability of a high order and for the individuality of a personal character which impresses itself upon a community. Of a family conspicuous for strong intellects and indomitable courage and energy, Judge Geddes entered upon his career as a lawyer, and such was his force of character and natural qualifications that he overcame all obstacles and wrote his name upon the keystone of the legal arch of his district. Judge Geddes was, moreover, a man of marked influence in political circles in Ohio. In June, 1878, a democratic convention of the fifteenth congressional district, comprising the counties of Coshocton, Holmes, Knox, Richland and Tuscarawas, met at New Philadelphia and after a session of three days failed to nominate a candidate. An adjournment was taken and the convention reassembled at Mt. Vernon, July 31, and after a deadlock continuing through that day and the day following, reconvened Friday, August 2, and resumed balloting with the one thousand one hundred and eleventh ballot. Colonel R. Burns was the Richland county candidate. After the twelve hundredth and fiftieth ballot had been taken Judge Geddes was brought