HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 951 others being: Benjamin, who has passed away; Israel, a resident of Canton, Ohio; and John C., who makes his home in Kansas. There was one child by the second marriage. Leaving Pennsylvania, Benjamin McCoy brought his family to Ohio, the trip being made with a two-horse wagon, and after spending a few months in Wayne, he located in Lexington, Richland county, in 1848. For two years he made his home in Troy township and then remored to Morrow county, where he died in 1851. When William McCoy had mastered the branches of learning taught in the common schools he learned the tanner's trade, with which he was connected at Bellville for fifteen years. He then located on his present farm in Jefferson township, where he owns eighty-four acres of valuable and well improved land, the property returning to him a gratifying annual income. Hehas made all of the improvements upon the place and now has a very desirable property. In 1860 Mr. McCoy was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Aungst, who was born on the 17th of February, 1835, and passed away in 1905, leaving one son, Frank, engaged in the drug business in Lexington, Ohio. Mr. McCoy gives stalwart allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy and has served as a member of the council at Bellville. He is well and favorably known in the community and now receives the veneration and respect which should ever be accorded one who has traveled thus far on life's journey and whose course has at all times been honorable and upright. JAMES ABRAHAM LEONARD. James Abraham Leonard, superintendent of the Ohio State Reformatory at Mansfield, was born on a farm in Black Log valley, near Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, September 12, 1854, and is of English and Scotch-Irish parentage. His father, Captain Leonard, was born in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1832, and was of English descent. Upon reaching manhood he engaged in the iron and steel industry with which the family had been connected through many generations. At the outbreak of the Civil war he entered the army as a member of the organization known as the. Bucktails and served as captain until the close of hostilities. The, last year was spent in special service in the west under General Thomas. His service was often of the most arduous nature but he never faltered when duty called and throughout his entire life has manifested the same loyalty in citizenship. After the war he again engaged in the iron and steel business but on the opening of Oklahoma he went to that territory as one of its first settlers and took an active interest in the development of the new town of Edmond, serving as its mayor during the entire period of his residence there. He was also one of the founders of the State Normal School at Edmond and in fact was largely instrumental in securing its location there. Later he removed to Detroit, Michigan, where he is now living retired, at the age of seventy-six Years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Eliza- 952 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY beth Wallace White, was born near Londonderry, Ireland, and came to America about 1850 with an aunt who located at Three Springs, Huntington county, Pennsylvania. Her parents were of sturdy Scotch-Irish stock and Mrs. Leonard was a woman of extraordinary strength of character, strongly influential among her children, her sons especially having the greatest respect fpr her opinions. She left her impress for good upon the lives of the many with whom she came in contact, and her death was therefore the occasion of deep egret when she passed away, at Detroit, Michigan, in December, 1907. James A. Leonard is the eldest in the family of four sons and three daughters, of whom six are still living, and he is the only one of the brothers who is not connected with the steel and iron industry. The second son, W. R. Leonard, of Youngstown, Ohio, is president of th.e Wilkins-Leonard Hardware Company of that place, also engages in banking and for two years was county auditor S. C., of Detroit, Michigan, is now general manager of the iron and steel department for the American Bar & Foundry Company, also president of the American Bar Iron Association and is prominent in educational work, being president of the school board of Detroit; John D., of St. Louis, Missouri, is general manager of the Helmbacher Iron & Steel Company and very promiment in Masonic circles Mary A. is the widow of S. B. Lantz, of Detroit; and Frances J. is the wife of Millard Walker, general manager of the Foster Lumber Company at Norton, Kansas. James A. Leonard spent his boyhood to the age of fifteen years upon a farm, and his earliest recollections have to do with events of the Civil war, in which he took deep interest. His grandfather was a great admirer of Abraham Lincoln and had named our subject in his honor. On the third day of the battle of Gettysburg he took his grandson to a point near their home, where they sat and listened to the heavy firing. He received his early education in the country schools and there learned the self-reliance to which he accredits his success in life. He afterward pursued a course in a private normal at Worthington, Ohio, and subsequently was a student in a private business college. In keeping with the traditions of the family, he was required to enter the mills after he left school and learn the iron and steel business. When he had mastered it, however, he turned his attention to educational work, towhich he devoted the succeeding twenty-five years of his life, in the meantime receiving the degree of A.M. from Mount Union College, in 1885. He proved a capable educator, teaching in the district, township and city schools of the state, giving twenty years of active service along educational lines in Youngstown. During that period Mr. Leonard was also county examiner for nine years and served as principal of ward schools and the normal training department for several terms. A year after his arrival in Mansfield he was tendered the office of superintendent of schools at Youngstown, which offer appealed to him very strongly, because it came as a unanimous expression from the city in which he had spent his early manhood. However, his sense of right would not permit him to leave the reformatory in which he had become intensely interested. His work here had won the hearty approbation of the governor and board of trustees and he felt that it was his duty to remain where his service was proving a benefit to the state at large. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 953 Previous to his arrival in Mansfield Mr. Leonard served for three years in the United States Interior department with Secretary Noble, and his labors were a helpful and influential factor in the establishment of schools of letters and industrial training schools for the Indians. In 1897 President McKinley tendered him the superintendency of Indian schools but he declined because the faithful discharge of the duties of the position would necessitate his almost continuous absence from home. He has delivered lectures before teachers' institutes throughout the middle west and his last educational work, before entering the reformatory, was in the normal training school of Youngstown, Ohio. In 1901 he was appointed superintendent of the Ohio State Reformatory. He immediately entered upon his work there and during the succeeding seven years his labors have given. the utmost satisfaction to all concerned. The reformatory farm comprises five hundred acres of land and has been a source of revenue to the state as well as a means of discipline and training for the prison population. In the year 1906 the farm netted a profit of ten thousand dollars. In this connection Mr. Leonard said, "While it is very gratifying to learn that the farming operations are valuable from an economic point of view, this, after all, is a minor consideration when compared with the value of the farm as a means of discipline and training. A study of the farm report will reveal the fact that we have endeavored to produce everything which it is possible to raise in this region, and it is needless to say to those experienced in agriculture that such returns from two hundred and fifty acres of land, actually available, would be impossible if intensive methods were not employed. While the trusty system has rendered our farming operations much more profitable from an economic sense, and much more valuable for purposes of education and training, the moral gain alone justifies the system. The selfrestraint necessary for these young men to resist the temptation to run away, and the moral stimulus that comes by imposing upon them responsibility in assignment of duties, results in the development of a degree of moral stamina that justifies an early parole and increases very appreciably the number of young men from this institution who become good citizens." The reformatory idea originated nearly a century ago in Europe, but it mado little progress until quite recently. Its highest development in the United States is seen in such institutions as that at Mansfield, Ohio, and Elmira, New York. In some respects the former is unique, and work is there being done which has brought to it the attention of all interested in the introduction of humanitarian and progressive principles in such institutions. The system employed at Mansfield is largely the creation of the present superintendent. That system is builded upon the conviction that while there are many among a prison population who are outside the zone of corrective influence, there are still greater numbers who can be improved or reclaimed by the personal interest and encouragement of officials and the application of wise reformative regulations. Mr. Leonard is the apostle of hopefulness in prison management. He has an abiding faith in humanity. He believes that in most offenders against the law there is a preponderance of good and that in the worst criminal some wholesome quality may be discovered. To repress the evil inclination and develop the manhood, self-respect and self-reliance of the 964 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY unfortunates committed to his care is the policy along which Mr. Leonard has been working for several years. For thirty-three years Mr. Leonard has been in the public service. Nearly all of his work has been of an educative character and has had to do with the physical, mental and moral development of those who have come under his care. The influence of his work and the results of his labors are immeasurable, but, as Browning puts it, he "has been awakening the little seeds of good asleep throughout the world." While not a practical politician in the sense of being a worker in organized political ranks or in an untiring search for office, he has nevertheless taken a great interest in public affairs and is a stalwart champion of republican principles. He is a member of the Prison Congress and National Association of Charities and Correction. He gives deep and earnest thought and most careful consideration to, and he has written and read before the public, many papers on reform work which have been widely published both in this country and abroad. On the 29th of July, 1885, in Youngstown, Ohio, Mr. Leonard was married to Elizabeth Annette Treat, a representative of the Treat family of Connecticut and later prominent among the early settlers of the Western Reserve. She is a direct descendant of Robert Treat, who for forty years was governor of Connecticut, and also of George Clinton, the first governor of New York and twice vice president of the United States. Mr. and Mrs. Leonard have two daughters and two sons: Elizabeth and Laura Annette, who are students in Oberlin College; and James A., and George Todd, who are students in the Mansfield high school. In his fraternal relations Mr. Leonard is connected with Masonry and has attained the Knight Templar degree. From the age of fifteen years he has been a member of the Methodist church and is serving on the official board of the First Methodist Episcopal church in Mansfield. His religion is of the most practical character and is manifested in his untiring, devoted and consecrated effort for his fellowmen. He possesses a hopeful optimism, for he believes that good is in each individual and that proper environment and encouragement will bring it out. Thus he is working steadily toward making the world better. VERNON REDDING. It is a trite but true saying that there is always room at the top. In his business career Vernon Redding has gained .a place where he has comparatively few competitors, for his ability has 'led him out of the ranks of the many and placed him among the successful few. As an architect he has secured a liberal patronage and many of the fine structures-of Mansfield and this section of the state stand as evidence of his skill and handiwork. He was born at Ashland, Ohio, October 7, 1866, and is descended in both the paternal and Maternal lines from German ancestry. His parents are P. M. and Malinda (Roland) Redding, both of whom are residents of Ashland. The father, a HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 955 native of that city, is well known as a contractor and builder there. Vernon Redding is the eldest of their family Of five children, four of whom survive, his brother Frank having died at Montauk Point, Long Island, of typhoid fever contracted in the Spanish-American war, in which he served as a member of the Eighth Regiment. The others of the family are : Henry N. Redding, who is employed by his brother Vernon.; Lester, who is also in his brother's employ and Mrs. Peter Gougwer, who fis residing near Ashland, Ohio. Vernon Redding spent his boyhood days in his native city and acquired his education in the public schools there. One secret Of his success undoubtedly is found in the fact of his persistency of purpose in continuing in a business in which he embarked in early manhood, his long experience continually promoting his efficiency and skill. At the age of nineteen years he entered the employ of Weary & Kramer, architects of Akron, Ohio, with whom he remained for eleven years, spending the last six years of that period as head draftsman in the office. That firm then opened an office in New York city and Mr. Redding was transferred as head draftsman to the eastern metropolis, where he remained for a year. On :the expiration of that period the firm dissolved and M Redding was offered a partnership with G. W. Kramer, who retained the New York office. Deciding to locate farther west, however, Mr. Redding selected Mansfield as a favorable location and arrived here in the fall of 1896. He then opened an Office and has continued in business in this city to the present time. He has done a general business in making plans for and superintending the erection of public and private buildings, both locally and throughout the state: The volume of outside business that is accorded him is by far the most extensive, comprising about eighty percent of his total patronage. Among the more important structures outside of the city which have been erected under his management are the Young Men's Christian Association Building at Springfield, Ohio, costing eighty-five thousand dollars; the Young Men's Christian. Association Building, the First Presbyterian church and the Carnegie Library at Bucyrus, Ohio ; the Young Men's Christian Association Building, the Opera House, the Walnut Street school, the Ashland County Infirmary and a number of residences at Ashland, Ohio the fine new residences for Dr. S. E. Simmons and D. W. H. Merritt, and the building of the Huron County Banking Company at, Norwalk, Ohio, and the remodeling of the Huron county court house and the Huron county infirmary. He also built the new parochial school and auditorium for SS. Peter's and Paul's congregation at Sandusky, Ohio, the Seventh ward school and the residence of Dr. H. C. Schopfle, at Sandusky, Ohio ; the Garfield apartments and the Ozier & McCreedy block at. Akron, Ohio; the new department store for D. A. Frank & Company, at Marion, Ohio ; the Wayne County .National Bank, the. Wayne County Building & Loan building, the Carnegie library, and the residences of J. S. R. Overholt and. Mrs. Jacob Frick, all of Wooster, Ohio ; the Central Hotel, Carnegie library, First National Bank building, United Brethren church and the residence of A, Howard; at Galion, Ohio and the annex to the high school building, the New Park National Bank, the six-story commercial building for Eli Hull, and the First Presbyterian church, of Newark, Ohio. He was also awarded the contract for the Trinity Episcopal 956 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY church at Bellfontaine, Ohio; the high school building at Wooster, Ohio; the four-story commercial building for F. E. Myers & Brother at Ashland, Ohio, and the new high school building at Wadsworth, this state. Among the more important buildings Mr. Redding has erected in Mansfield are the new Carnegie library, the Grace Episcopal church and First and Central Methodist Episcopal churches, St. Paul's Lutheran church, the annex to the high school, the Bowman, and Newman street, the Hedges and the East Fourth street school buildings, the Young Men's Christian Association building, the remodeling of the Southern Hotel, a business block for S. M. Ford, the May Realty Company building and the new Elks' home, together with a number of factory buildings, including that owned by the American Cigar Company. He also built the fine new Westbrook Country Club building. In addition to his extensive building operations he is a director of the Citizens Savings & Loan Association. He passed the examination and was admitted to the American Institute of Architects, May 24, 1902,—a recognition of his ability as one of the skilled architects of. the country. On the of January, 1888, in Ashland, Ohio, Mr. Redding was married to Miss Margaret E. Sheets of that city and they had one daughter, Helen Elizabeth, now fifteen years of age. Mrs. Redding died in the spring of 1900, and Mr. Redding was married, in Norwalk, Ohio, October 13, 1903, to Harriett R. Becker, of that place. The family residence is on Marion avenue, a property which he purchased ten years ago. Mr. Redding is a member of the Elks and Masonic fraternities and of the Westbrook Country Club. He is also a member of the First Presbyterian church and for several years sereved as one of its trustees. While he does not seek notoriety or public attention, he is at all times a courteous, genial gentleman, and one whose commendable qualities have gained for him warm friendship and sincere regard. With a nature that could not be content with mediocrity, he has steadily progressed in his chosen calling and his position now is among the foremost architects of Ohio. JOHN WESLEY FERREE. John Wesley Ferree, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in Franklin township, was born in what was then Franklin but is now Weller township, Richland county, Ohio, July 16, 1838, his parents being William and Anne (Haislett) Ferree, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Maryland. The father came to Richland county about 1820, when a lad of twelve years, settling on what is now the Franklin and Weller township line. His entire business career was devoted to agricultural pursuits, in which he met with a good measure of success. His demise occurred in November, 1866, while his wife survived him until 1870, when she, too, was called to her final rest. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, four sons and one daughter. John Wesley, of this review, was the first in order of birth. W. A. served for three years as a member of the One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and now carries on farming near Shiloh, Richland HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 957 county, Ohio. Mary A. is the wife. of John Richards, of Seattle, Washington. Samuel, Who when eighteen years of age enlisted for one hundred days as a soldier in the Civil war, contracted disease while in the service and died from its effects in 1865. Jacob W. carries on agricultural pursuits in Weller township. John Wesley Ferree spent his boyhood days on the old homestead farm and acquired a common-school education. In 1861 he enlisted as a soldier in the Civil war and for three years and two months loyally defended the Union. He first went to western Virginia and was then transferred to the Army of the Cumberland, with which he continued until his term expired. He participated in all the engagements of the Army of the Cumberland and was slightly wounded at Stone River. He was discharged with the rank of duty sergeant and returned home with a creditable military record, having never faltered in the performance of any task assigned him. Since 1865 he has carried on farming on his present place of one hundred and sixty acres and, owing to his unremitting industry wand capable management, has met with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity. A few old buildings stood on the farm when it came into his possession but he has torn these all down and replaced them with an attractive and commodious residence, a substantial barn and outbuildings, while the Alin in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In November, 1864, Mr. Ferree was united in . marriage to Miss Susan Osbun, by whom he has. four children : Minnie, at home ; Charles, who married Miss Laura Haverfield and . has three children, Tressie, Jay and Harold; Martha A., also at home ; and William W.; who wedded Miss Alpine Webb, by whom he has one child, Mary. In his political views Mr. Ferree is a stanch republican and for one term, beginning in 1890, served as county commissioner. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic post at Pavonia, Ohio, of which he is now commander, and he and his family are all connected with the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he has held office and in the work 'of which he is actively and helpfully interested. Throughout his entire life, covering the psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, he has been a resident of this county and his interests are thoroughly identified therewith, his aid and cooperation ever being counted upon in furthering any movement or measure instituted for the general welfare. WILLIAM McELROY WELDON. William McElroy Weldon, a prominent and well known lawyer of Mansfield, was born in this city on the 28th of December, 1868. His great-grandfather, Rolin Weldon, was, one of the first settlers of Richland county, the year of his arrival being 1809. The grandfather, James Weldon, one of the' old-time merchants of Mansfield, conducted his general store in what is still the "Weldon Corner" on the southeast corner of Main and Fourth streets. His 958 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY wife was a McElroy, whose father, William McElroy, settled on a farm three miles east of Mansfield in 1818 and the farm is still held by his descendants The maternal grandmother of our subject was a Hodge, belonging to one of Buffalo's prominent pioneer families. William IL Weldon, father of William McElroy Weldon, was a naval officer in the Civil war and afterward a banker in Philadelphia. He died, however, when a comparatively young man, his death occurring in his twenty-ninth year. His wife bore the maiden name of Mary Purdy, the eldest daughter of the late James Purdy, one of Mansfield's, early lawyers, editors and bankers, who was also prominent in the development of the state's first canal system. William McElroy Weldon was graduated from the public schools of Mansfield in1886 and from Amherst College in the year 1890. After returning from a trip abroad he began reading law in the office of Jenner & Tracey and on the completion of a course in the Columbia Law School was admitted to the bar by the supreme court of Ohio in .1892. He has been associated with S. E. Jenner, F. K. Tracy and Hon. John W. Jenner in the active practice of law in the state and federal courts, and as director and attorney has assisted in the incorporation and management of The Farmers' Savings & Trust Company and several local manufacturing companies. His success in a professional way affords the best evidence of his capabilities in this line. He is a strong advocate with the jury, and concise in his appeals before the court. His reputation as a lawyer has been won through earnest, honest labor and his standing at the bar is a merited tribute to his ability. Descended on both the paternal and maternal sides from a line of whigs, the has always been an active republican, and in 1899 was elected city solicitor of Mansfield. He was the first republican solicitor elected in thirty years a fact which plainly indicates his popularity and the confidence and trust reposed in him by his fellow townsmen. In 1896 William McElroy Weldon was united in marriage to Miss Sarah May Black, the only daughter of Moses and Elizabeth (Blymyer) Black. They make their home in the old Blymyer-Black homestead, which is enlivened by the presence of two bright and interesting children, Elizabeth and William, aged respectively seven and four years. ISAAC GRANVILLE NOECKER. Isaac Granville Noecker, who is an enterprising and progressive man, is now operating a fine farm of one hundred and fifty-nine acres on section 27 Cass township, which belongs to his father-in-law, Levi Dick, and he also has another tract of twenty acres situated a half mile east of the home place, so that he is carrying on general agricultural pursuits on quite a large scale. Mr. Noecker is a native son of Ohio, his birth having occurred on a farm a half mile east of Planktown, in Richland county, June 22, 1850. His father, Benjamin Noecker, was born near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, February 12, 1809, the day on which President Lincoln was also born. He was first mar- HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 963 ried to Miss Mary Baumgartner, who was also born in the Keystone state, and by that union there were four children. The wife and mother "died near Planktown, October 28, 1841, and for his second .wife he chose Lavina Van Horn; who was born in Stark county, Ohio, December 28, 1817. Her parents removed to Ohio from the Keystone state. This union was blessed with five children, as follows: Rebecca Ellen,. who was born November 5, 1845, and became the wife of Joseph Coup, but is now deceased; . Sarah, who was born December 15, 1847, and became the wife of Thomas Rosendale, by whom she had one child, and after his death was married a second time, but is now deceased; Isaac G:, of this review; Lovina, who was born January 1, 1852, and os now the wife of Frank Dick, a resident of Crawford county; and Katherine, is was born May 14, 1854, and is the wife of Aaron Fike, of Knox county, Ohio. Isaac G. Noecker, whose name introduces this record, was reared to farm life, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He was reared near Planktown and acquired. his education in the district, schools near his father's home. In 1877 he accompanied his parrents on removal to Auburn township, Crawford county, where he remained until the time of his marriage. That important event in his life occurred on the 9th of June, 1881, when he led to the marriage altar Miss Isabel Dick, who was born On the farm which is now her home, July 24, 1856, a daughter of Levi and Katherine A. (Swartz) Dick. The father was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, July 3, 1826, a son of George and Sarah (Nichols) Dick, both of whom were born in. the Keystone state in 1796, and at an early day they made their way to Stark county, Ohio, and later removed to Wayne county, while the year 1832 witnessed their arrival in Richland county. There Levi Dick spent his remaining days, passing away June 28, 1900, when he had reached the age of seventy-four years. He was .married twice, his first union being with Katherine. Swartz, who was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, March 4, 1829, whence she came to Ohio with her parents in 1835. By her marriage she became the. mother of six children, namely : Mary Jane, the deceased wife of George Bucher; Sarah Helen, the wife of Dan Malone, of Cass township; Isabel, now Mrs. Noecker; George Franklin,who died. at.the age of two years; Katherine, who died young; and one who died in infancy. The wife and mother passed away March 16, 1893, at the age of sixty-four years, and following her demise Mr. Dick was again married, his second union being with Amanda Behmer, the wedding ceremony being performed December 16, 1897. His widow now resides in Lafayette, Ohio. The father followed farming in this state and became a large landowner, owning at one time four hundred acres. Following the marriage of Isaac G. Noecker and Isabel Dick they began their domestic life upon a farm in Crawford county, where they made their home until seven years ago, at which time they came to Cass township, Richland county, and took up their abode upon his father-in-law's farm, which has been their home to the present time. This tract comprises one hundred and fifty-nine acres of well improved land, all of which is in a good state of cultivation, and in addition to this Mr. Noecker also operates another tract of 964 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY twenty acres adjoining. On the place stands a good brick residence and substantial barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. Mr. Noecker is engaged in general farming and stock-raising and both branches of his business are proving a profitable source of revenue to him. Mr. and Mrs. Noecker have four children : Levi B., born May 14, 1882, married Rosie Schreff and is engaged in painting and paper hanging in Shelby; George Leonard, born November 25, 1883, and agent for the Watkins Medicine Company, married Catherine Pickens, by whom he has one child, Leola, and they reside in Edison, Ohio ; and Charles, born May 11, 1888, and Howard Dick, born August 21, 1893, are both at home. Mr. Noecker gives his political support to the democratic party, having supported its men and measures since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He served as trustee of Cass township for one term and has filled other minor offices. His fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias at Tiro. Having spent his entire life in Ohio, Mr. Noecker is familiar with the history of the state and is well and favorably known in many sections. He has ever followed the most honorable methods in his dealings with his fellowmen and all who know him have none but the highest praise and commendation for him. GEORGE ARTER. The name of Arter is an old and prominent one in Richland county, members of the family having resided here since 1816, therefore the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch needs no introduction to our readers, Mr. Arter was born in Crawford county, Ohio, December 24, 1850. The first of the family to come to Richland county was the paternal great-grandfather, who entered twelve hundred acres of land from the government, in Sandusky and Springfield townships. He built a log cabin on the place, which continued to be his home throughout a long period. He passed away in Shelby, this state. The father of our subject, who also bore the name of George Arter, was born December 20, 1822, in Richland county, and became a wealthy landowner, following the occupation of farming throughout his entire life. He was married in Richland county to Miss Sarah J. Walters, likewise a native of Richland county, born June 7, 1825. He was prominent in the ranks of the republican party and took an active part in public affairs. His death occurred June 21, 1896, when he had reached the age of seventy-four years, while his wife survived him for a few years, passing away March 17, 1905, when in her seventy-fifth year. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children, as follows: Rebecca, the wife of Daniel Beam, a resident of Richland county; George, of this review; Alwilda, the wife of Aaron Oldfield, of Crawford county ; John, who has passed away ; Sarah J., the wife of J. Hout, of Richland county; Delia, the wife of W. P. Smith, of Galion, this state; Charles H., also of Richland county ; and Flora B., the wife of William Frank, of Galion Ohio. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 965 George Arter was reared to the occupation of farming and was educated in the common schools. He remained on the home farm until he had attained the age of twenty-seven years, when he began life on his own account by operating the home place. He has worked earnestly and persistently during the years that have come and gone and today his valuable farm of one hundred and ninety-two acres, situated on sections 12 and 13, Sandusky township; stands as evidence of the excellent success which has attained his efforts. He has improved his place with good buildings, Occupying a good country residence, and he also has substantial outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and each year harvests good crops. It was on the 21st of February, 1884, that Mr. Arter was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Harris, who was born in Chicago, Illinois, September 7, 1854, a daughter of Joseph and Susanna (Wilson) Harris, who were natives of England and emigrated to the new world in 1839, in which year they located in Chicago, where the father was engaged in contracting and building. Their family numbered seven children. Both the parents are now deceased. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Arter has been blessed with two sons and two daughters, namely : Sadie, who was born August 23, 1885, and is at home; Alice, who was born in January, 1889, and was graduated from the Crestline high school and is still under the parental roof George H., who was born June 28, 1890, and is now a student in the Crestline high school; and Lester, who was born March 29, 1898, and is also at home. Mr. Arter gives his support to the men: and measures of the republican party and aside from serving as school director he has filled no public office, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his private business interests, in which he is meeting with success. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Having spent his entire life in Richland county, he has a wide acquaintance and is also familiar with the progress which has here been made in agricultural circles in the last half century. He is known for his honesty, integrity and straightforward methods, being never known to take advantage of another in any trade transaction. REV. WILLIAM O. SCOTT Although now living quietly in Butler in the filial care of his own and his wife's father, Rev. William O. Scott has devoted much of his life to the work of the ministry and in the church has done effective service for the advancement of moral and spiritual interests. He was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, March 20, 1856, and is the son of Thomas H. and Margaret M. (Lyons) Scott. His paternal grandfather was William Scott, a native of Ireland, and the family was founded in America about 1770. Settling in Pennsylvania on his arrival in the new world, William Scott was married in that state, his wife, Miss Susana Scott, being a native of Pennsylvania, whence they removed to Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1800. This state had not then 966 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY been admitted to the Union. The Indians far outnumbered the white settlers and it seemed that the seeds of civilization had hardly been planted here, but Mr. and Mrs. Scott bravely faced the dangers and hardships of pioneer life and aided in laying broad and deep a foundation upon which has been builded the present prosperity and progress of the commonwealth. Mr. Scott passed away in Jefferson county in 1832 at the age of fifty-two years, while his wife died in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, in 1865, at the age of eighty-five years. In their family were twelve children, but Thomas H. Scott, the father pf our subject, is the only one now living. He was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, January 12, 1820, and was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life. Having arrived at years of maturity he was married on the 25th of November, 1847, to Miss Margaret M. Lyons, whose birth occurred May 1, 1829. In his youth Thomas H. Scott attended the public schools and afterwards began teaching, which profession he followed during the winter terms for seven years. During the period of the Civil war, however, he put aside business and professional cares and offered his services to the government, enlisting in 1864 as a member of Company F, One Hundred and Fifty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for one hundred days. During this time he was engaged in guarding prisoners at Fort Delaware and on the 15th of September, 1864, he was mustered out. For a considerable period in his early life he devoted his time and energy to general agricultural pursuits and in 1867 he joined the Muskingum annual conference of the Methodist Protestant church, with which he was connected for fifteen years, preachomg at different places during that period. He is still connected therewith, being now superannuated. For the past ten years he has divided his time between the homes of his son and daughter. He is a remarkably well preserved man for one of his age and his mental faculties seem as yet undimmed. He has always been a student and a thinker and has kept abreast with the times in all matters of general progress. He is now living with his son, William, at the very, venerable age of eighty-eight years, while his wife passed away April 14, 1906. They were the parents of six children: Albert G. and Andrea M., both of whom are now deceased; Ida B., who has also passed away; William O., of this review ; Ella L., the wife of Charles G. Busbee, of Fairfield county, Ohio; and Frank S., deceased. William O. Scott was reared in his native county and as a boy trudged off each morning to the district school and therein mastered the common branches of learning. The periods of vacation were largely devoted .to farm work and when eighteen years of age he began teaching school, following the profession for eight years and proving a capable educator, his ability being manifest in the readiness with which he imparted to others the knowledge that he had acquired. He then took up the work of the ministry and joined the Muskingum Annual Conference of, the Methodist Protestant Church in 1882. Three years later he came to Butler as pastor of the church of that denomination at this place. He afterward accepted a call from , the church at Wellsville, Ohio, but in 1896 returned to Butler where he has since made his home. He is supernumerary assistant to the pastor here and is on the retired list for the time being that he may care for his own and his wife's father during HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 967 the evening of their lives. When circumstances permit, however, he will again take up the active work of the ministry, for his interest in the work has never abated nor his zeal for the cause slackened. He now controls one hundred acres of land, of which he owns one-third, and from which he derives a good rental. His portion lies within the corporation limits of Butler. Mr. Scott has been married twice. On the 1st of June, 1887, he wedded Margaret Craig, who was born July 21, 1854, and died in September, 1896. Following her demise he married her sister; Miss Maxilla A. Craig, on the 28th of September, 1897. She was born March 19, 1861, and by this marriage there is one child, Paul Craig Scott, born November 6, 1898. Mrs. Scott is a daughter of James A. and Mary Ann (Eicher) Craig: The father was born October 17, 1826, and makes his home with Mr. and Mrs. Scott, as does the former's father. Mr. Craig's parents were Joseph arid Margaret (Spear) Craig. The former was born January 29, 1797, in Pennsylvania, and died on what is now the Scott home in Butler, July 7, 1887, at the venerable age of ninety years and six months. His wife, who was born in the Keystone state, October 29, 1801, died here, May 11, 1884, at the age of eighty-two years and six months. The family is noted for longevity. Mrs. Scott's grandfather, Joseph Craig, came to Richland county-in 1828 and purchased eighty acres of land, which constitutes a part of what is now the Scott farm. In the midst of the unbroken wilderness he built a log cabin, which was without windows or doors until after Christmas, blankets being hung up at the openings for protection. Here the family lived in true pioneer style and when company came they utilized pumpkins for chairs. Upon this farm is a spring which has been piped into Butler and furnishes water for a large portion of the population. Joseph Craig continued to follow farming throughout life and was one of the most scientific and successful agriculturists of this section. His son, James Craig, conducted a tanyard in Butler for many years and also took contracts for clearing timber from land. He would buy land, clear it of the timber and then sell it again, and in this way made a. good profit on his investment. He has now reached the evening of his life and in his declining days has the care and tender devotion of his daughter and son-in-law. When twelve years of age Mary Ann (Eicher) Craig's mother became an invalid and the daughter not only cared for her during life, but took her place at the loom and spinning-wheel during winter months but was able to reap as many dozens of grain with the sickle as any man. Besides her own home duties she promptly and cheerfully responded to the many summons from the sickrooms throughout the neighborhood. Her home beside the spring on the hillside was ever open to the minister of the gospel, her purse and pantry to the hungry, her sympathy and love to the tempted and sorrowing, and her words of counsel and fervent prayers a pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night around and about her home and kindred. To her the words of Scripture might have been aptly given : "She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands. "She riseth also while it is yet night; and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. 968 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY "She stretcheth out her hand to the poor: yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. "She openeth her mouth with wisdom and in her tongue is the law of kindness. "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."—Proverbs 31:13-31. Mrs. Scott is .a graduate of the high school of Fort Wayne, Indiana, of the class of 1882, and in early womanhood she engaged in teaching near Mount Vernon, Ohio, and successfully followed that profession until she had to give up her school work to care for her father and mother. She has taken care of nine old people in all, each one being over seventy years of age. In this regard she is certainly doing a noble work and one which entitles her to the esteem and admiration of all with whom she has been brought in contact. She is the youngest of a family of six children: David, now deceased; Atchison D., living in Richmond, Indiana; Arminda J., the wife of W. Montis, of Des Moines, Iowa; Margaret, who was the first wife of Mr. Scott; Jerusha M., he wife of Francis J. Kanaga, of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Mrs. Maxilla A. Scott a matter of daily living and not of Sunday observance alone. It is manif Both Mr. and Mrs. Scott are held in the highest esteem by reason of lives that are exemplary in many respects. Their influence has ever been on the side of right and progress, of justice a.nd truth, and with them Christianity is in their relations with all with whom they come in contact and their unfaltering fidelity to the principles in which they believe. CHRISTOPHER C. AREHART. As long as memory remains to the American people the soldier will be held in high regard, for the country has ever felt that she owes a debt of gratitude to the boys in blue who fought for the defense of the Union during the darkest hour in the nation's history since the establishment of American independence. Among the veterans of the Civil war who are now living in Richland county is numbered Christopher C. Arehart, who was born in Perryville, Ashland county, Ohio, April 29, 1843. He had therefore but just passed his eighteenth birthday when on the 16th of August, 1861, he offered his services to the government in defense of the stars and stripes. He was mustered into the United States service on the 6th of August and went to the front as a private. On the 28th and 29th of December of the same year he participated in the battle of Chickasaw Bayou. He was also in the engagement at Arkansas Post, January 11, 1863; at Thompson Hill, Mississippi, on the 1st of May and in the siege of Vicksburg from the 18th of May until the 4th of July. He took part in the battle at Big Black River on the 17th of May, 1863, and was at Jackson, Mississippi, from the 9th to the 16th of July. He then went to Frankfort and on the lst of February, 1867, he was appointed corporal. From the 5th to the 7th of May, 1864, he was at a plantation in HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 969 Louisiana, and on the 27th of November of the same year he was transferred to Company E, of the One Hundred and Fourteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He also took part in a battle in May, 1864, and in the engagement at Bayou De Glaize on the. 18th of May. He also aided in the siege of Mobile, Alabama, from the 26th of March until the 9th of April ; in the siege of Fort Blakely from the 2d to the 9th of April, 1865 was next transferred to Company E, of the Forty-eighth Ohio Infantry, July 24, 1865, and was honorably discharged at Houston, Texas, October 14, 1865, for the war had been brought to a close and his aid was no longer needed. Mr. Arehart then returned to Ashland county, Ohio, and resumed his education as a student in the schools of Perryville. He afterward devoted some time to learning the plasterer's trade and worked in that business for seven years. On the expiration of that period he engaged in farming in Monroe township, Richland county, 'Ohio, and also worked at the plasterer's trade. On the 8th of January, 1870, Mr. Arehart was married to Miss Emma Yates and in 1878 they removed to the farm in Monroe township, comprising one hundred and twenty-two acres of land, where Mr. Arehart devoted his attention successfully to agricultural interests until about six years ago, when he purchased a commodious residence in the village of Lucas and took up his abode there. Since that time he has lived a life of quiet and well earned retirement, enjoying the ease and rest which should always crown long years of active and honorable labor. He has made an excellent record in business and aside from the activity he has displayed in the industrial and agricultural circles he has also been one of the directors of the Farmers &Merchants Bank of Lucas. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Arehart have been born four children: Lloyd, who operates his father's farm; May, the wife of Norman Irwin, a resident farmer of this county; John, who is a liveryman at Mansfield; and Don, deceased. While Mr. Arehart is now largely living retired froth business cares, he has never ceased to be an active factor in movements and measures pertaining to the public good. He is in all things a respected and progressive citizen, keeping well informed on the questions and issues of the day and all matters of general interest. He manifests a patriotic devotion to his county, state and nation and in community affairs has done much active and. efficient work. The cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion and through his official connection with the schools he has done much for their upbuilding. He has labored earnestly to raise the standard of public education in Monroe township, believes in the employment of competent teachers and the, introduction of progressive measures that will make the public-school course a thorough preparation for life's practical and responsible. duties. He has likewise been a generous supporter of the church and his influence is always on the side of moral advancement. In political affairs he has been a stanch democrat and has for the past five years served as infirmary director, discharging the duties of the position with promptness and fidelity. As assessor and trustee he has done good work for the community and his aid and cooperation can always be counted upon to further progressive measures. He maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in Swigart Post, 970 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY G. A. R., of Lucas, in which he has held various offices and is past commander, Such in brief is the life record of C. C. Arehart, who commands the respect of all who know him and is justly counted one of the representative citizems of the community. J. P. WALSH. J. P. Walsh, who is successfully.. conducting a harness business in Bellville, was here born on the 10th of December, 1834, his parents being James and Sarah (Bell) Walsh. His maternal great-grandfather was Robert Bell, Sr., who owned the land on which the village of Bellville is now located, and laid out the town site. He came to this state with his parents in 1796 from Pallingsville, New Jersey, and first located in Belmont county, but in the spring of 1815 soon after the close of the war of 1812, the family came to Richland county and the father; Robert Bell, Sr., purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land of Samuel McClure, who had entered it from the government. On the northeast end of this tract stood the old blockhouse, and also the shake mill. On the west of this. section he donated a plat for the cemetery. The land was covered with a heavy growth of timber. In 1820 Robert Bell, Sr., began laying out Bellville, and selling lots. He soon afterward went. to live with his son, Robert Bell, Jr., his third child, who had married Elizabeth Lash. In 1830 the latter purchased the Jacob. Stout farm of one hundred and sixty acres, now owned by Job Olin, and on selling that place he removed to Bellville in 1854, making his home there until his death, which occur December 10, 1861, when he was seventy-seven years of age. His father had lived with him until called to his final. rest in 1840, at the age of eighty-six years. The later first married. Mary Yost, who was of English and Scotch descent, and who died in 1822, at the age of seventy years. In 1825 he wedded Mrs. Hannah Boogs. By trade he was. a shoemaker, but also engaged in farming to some extent. He gave the park to Bellville. In religious faith he was a zealous Presbyterian, and kept strictly all the fast days and other Ordinances of the church, and also gave lots for church and school purposes. James Walsh, the father of our subject, was a native of Maryland, and and came to Richland county in 1825. He followed farming for several years after'coming to this county, and subsequently engaged in the hardware business in Bellville; but prior to that he conducted a tannery at that place. On selling his hardware store, he opened a harness shop, which he carried on until 1863, when he sold out and removed to Crestline, Ohio, where he made his home until his demise. He was actively connected with the early development of the county, and his labors were an important element in its substantial upbuilding. J. P. Walsh acquired a common-school education, and remained with his father until he attained his majority. For several years afterward he was a partner of his father in the harness business, and on selling out he became connected with the carriage trade, which he continued for three years, selling HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 973 out in 1860. In that year he purchased the harness business, which he his since conducted with a gratifying and well merited success. He owns the store in which the business is carried on, and likewise has a nice residence property, being recognized as one of the substantial and enterprising citizens of the county. In 1859 Mr. Walsh was united in marriage to Miss Amanda Cowan, a native of Maryland. Her parents, Hugh and Drusilla Cowan, came to this county at an early day and passed away here. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Walsh was born one daughter, Kora, at home, who after completing the regular, course in the Bellville schools was appointed as teacher at the state school for blind at Columbus, Ohio, which she held seven years. The wife and mother passed away in 1903, her demise being deeply regretted by her many friends. Mr. Walsh has been an officer of the Presbyterian church for years, and gives his political allegiance to the democracy, and, has never missed a vote since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has served on the town board for several terms and is a public-spirited citizen, whose support can always be counted upon to further any measure for the general good. Fraternally he is connected with the Odd Fellows' lodge, No. 306, at Bellville, has filled all the chairs in this lodge several times, and is a member, of the Encampment. Having spent his entire life in this, the place of his nativity, he is well and favorably known throughout the community, and has won the warm esteem and friendship of all with whom he has come 'in contact in business and social relations. JOHN KRAUSE. John Krause, president of the Mansfield Ice Company and prominently connected with various other commercial enterprises of the city; was born here on the 19th of March, 1848. His father, John Krause, a native, of Hessen Darmstadt, Germany, emigrated to America in 1846, locating at Mansfield, where for the last twenty-five years of his life he engaged in the grocery business. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Beck, was also a native of Hessen Darmstadt, but came to the United States prior to her marriage. She passed away in 1876 and Mr. Krause survived until 1881. John Krause is the eldest in a family .of three sons and one daughter, of whom all are still living with the exception of one son, who died in infancy. Our subject acquired. his education in the public schools of Mansfield and when fourteen years of age began driving a grocery wagon for his father, by whom he was employed until he had attained the age of eighteen, clerking in the store during the latter part of that time. In 1867, on account of the father's ill health, he took charge of the business and when twenty-six years old was admitted to a partnership under the firm, style of John Krause & Sons. The senior partner retired in 1880, when the name of the enterprise was changed to Krause Brothers, John Krause of this review remaining an active factor in the conduct of the business until 1892, when he sold out to his 974 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY brothers and established. the Mansfield Ice Company, of which he has since been president and to the capable control of which he has given the greater part of his time and energies. That he is widely known as a man of excellent business ability and keen discrimination is indicated by the fact that his cooperation has been sought in an official capacity in various financial and commercial enterprises of this city. He has been vice president of the Bank of Mansfield since 1892, is a director in the Ideal Electric & Manufacturing Company and is interested in the Barnes Manufacturing Company, the Ohio Suspender Company and other concerns which have contributed in large measure to the commercial prosperity and upbuilding of Mansfield. He is likewise interested to some extent in Mansfield real-estate, his holdings including his home at No. 133 North Walnut street, which he built thirty years ago. He is a member of the May Realty Company, which firm built the May Building on South Park street, consisting of office building, flats and store building. A democrat in politics, Mr. Krause has. always taken an active interest in the work of the party here, and for two successive terms served as township treasurer of Madison township. During one term, from 1894 until 1897, he was a member of the board of water works trustees, and from 1904 until 1907 acted on the board of public service. In these various positions of trust and responsibility he displayed the same fidelity and capability that characterize him in the conduct of his private business affairs and is recognized as a man who is faithful to the obligations devolving upon him in every relation of life. He has gone through all the chairs of the Knights of Pythias and his fraternal relations also connect him with the Elks and the National Union, while for about ten-years he has been one of the deacons in St. Luke's Lutheran church. On the 21st of November, 1875, in Mansfield, Mr. Krause was united in marriage to Miss Amelia, daughter of Jacob Bush, a retired farmer of Richland county. The one son of this union, Albert B., is manager of the Mansfield Ice Company. A native son of the city in which his entire life has been passed, John Krause has so lived as to win the admiration and esteem of those who have known him from boyhood and have noted the excellent use he has made of his advantages and opportunities in the attainment of the prosperity which he today enjoys. W. H. MITCHELL. Mitchell, an enterprising young merchant of the village of Ontario is conducting a well appointed store, and his carefully managed business interests have brought him gratifying success. He was born near Ganges, Ohio, on the 21st of October, 1877. His father, Corydon Mitchell, was a native of Springfield township, Richland county, and has been identified with agricultural interests throughout his entire life. He is yet a prosperous farmer of this county and at a ripe old age is enjoying the fruits. of his former toil, while his fellow townsmen entertain for him the warmest regard by reason of the high and honorable principles which have characterized his entire career. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 975 In early manhood he wedded Miss Lillie Caton, a native of Sandusky township, this county, and unto them were born two children. The daughter, Grace, is the wife of Charles Hamman, a farmer now located in Blooming Grove township, this county. W. H. Mitchell acquired his early education in the district schools near his father's home and afterward received the advantages of a more advanced education in Angola, Indiana. After putting aside his text-books he started out in life on his own account, becoming a teacher in the public schools of Richland county. He successfully followed that vocation for a period of seven years, proving in the schoolroom an excellent disciplinarian and a teacher of marked ability in imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. In 1906 he purchased a half interest in the store of C. M. Jolly at Ontario, and in 1907 became sole proprietor. In the conduct of the store he is constantly studying to meet the demands of his patrons and he gives to them the benefit of reasonable prices and careful selection of goods. He is a young man of laudable ambition, who could never be content with mediocrity, and in his business career is making constant and substantial advancement. Mr. Mitchell was married in 1903 to Miss Winona Light, a resident of Ganges, Ohio, and they now have one son, Dean Everett, an interesting little lad of two years. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have won many friends here and their own home is attractive by reason of its warm hearted and cordial hospitality. In his political views he is a democrat and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to office. He is now serving as township treasurer and is also postmaster of Ontario. Fraternally he is connected with Ontario Lodge, No. 485, A. F. & A. M. Socially he stands very high in the community in which he lives, and his honorable business nethods and his personal traits of character commend him to the confidence and good will of the general public. J. W. Mc CULLY. Thrift, energy and economy are the elements which constitute the success of J. W. McCully, who now owns and operates one hundred and eight acres of land situated on section 12, Sandusky township. He is a native son of the township, his birth having occurred in a log cabin, February 12, 1848. His parents, William and Mary (Simpson) McCully, were likewise born in Richland county, where their entire lives were passed. Both are now deceased. Of their five children, four still survive, namely : S. S., of Richland county Sarah J., the widow of D. B. Lovett; also of Richland county William, who resides in New York city; and J. W., of this review. J. W. McCully acquired his education in the common schools and was reaed under the parental roof until he reached mature years, having in the meantime assisted his. father in the operation of the home farm. Upon starting out in life on his own account he located on his present farm, which he 976 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY purchased, comprising one hundred and eight acres on section 12, Sandusky township. He has improved the place with good buildings, has tiled and fenced the land and placed it under a high state of cultivation. Here he is engaged in general agricultural pursuits and each year harvests good crops as a reward for the care and labor he bestows upon the fields. In connection with farming he was also for eighteen years engaged in the tile and milling business but now gives his entire attention, to agriculture. Mr. McCully established a home of his own by his marriage, in December, 1871, to Miss Ellen Reed, who was born in Richland county, a daughter of James and Anna (Adams) Reed, both of whom are now deceased. She is one of a family of ten children, and by her marriage has become the mother of three children, two daughters and one son : Edith M., who was born July 22, 1873, and is now the wife of William . Kuhn, of Richland county; Edgar R., who was born January 18, 1877, and lives in Galion, Ohio; Jessie L., who was born October 30, 1884 and is now the wife of Clarence Hoover, a resident of Mansfield, this state. Mr. McCully's study of the political questions and issues of the day has ted him to give stalwart support to the democratic party. For several years he has served as a member of the, school board, while at the present writing he is filling the office of justice of the peace, his decisions being made in a fair and impartial manner. , He is now the candidate of his party for county commissioner. He is a member of the National Union Insurance Company, while he and his wife are identified with the Presbyterian church. They are people of the highest respectability and worth and are highly esteemed in the community in which they have so long resided, the hospitality of their own pleasant home being enjoyed by their many friends and acquaintances. JACOB SAMSEL. Jacob Samsel, residing on . his farm . in Butler township, was born in Richland county, August 6, 1836, his parents being Peter and Elizabeth (Dick) Samsel, natives of Germany, who emigrated to America and located in this county in 1836. The father was a weaver by trade, but in 1859 purchased one hundred and, sixty acres of land in Butler township. He was called to his final rest in 1883, having for a: number .of years survived his wife, whose death occurred in 1857. Their family numbered six children, namely: Peter, deceased; Catharine, the wife of Reuben Zigler, of Williams county, Ohio ; Jacob, of this review David, residing in this county; and two who died in infancy. Jacob Samsel acquired. a common-school education and remained under the parental roof until he had attained the age of sixteen years, when he learned the cabinet-maker's trade, at which he was engaged for a year. He then returned to the farm. In 1857 he purchased his present farm and as the years have passed by has made many substantial improvements thereon, while in addition to the work of the, fields he made a specialty of raising horses and HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 977 sheep. In the conduct of his agricultural interests he has met with a well earned and enviable degree of success and is now numbered among the prosperous and enterprising citizens of the community. On the 18th of January, 1858; Mr. Samsel was united in marriage to Miss Sarah J. Oberlin, by whom he had two children : Frank, of Richland county, who is married and has four children; and Emma, deceased. Following the death of his first wife Mr. Samsel was again married, his second union being with Eliza A. Glenn, who was born in Weller township in 1841, a daughter of Hugh Glenn. She died on the .26th of July, 1908. She was one of a family of eleven children, and by here marriage became the mother of one daughter, Bertha, who has one son, Glenn Dannison. Politically Mr. Samsel is a democrat, and has served as a member of the school board for thirty years, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. When sixteen years of age he joined the Reformed church, and has since been identified therewith, taking an active and helpful interest in its work. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been seconded due recognition of labor, and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of the locality. Throughout his entire life, covering more than the psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, he has been a resident of this county and has gained and retained the confidence and trust of those with whom he has been associated. GEORGE H. GRIBLING. No history of Richland county would be complete without mention of George H. Gribling, for the name has figuied prominently in agricultural circles in this section of the state from pioneer times. He now owns and operates the old Gribling homestead, comprising one hundred and sixty acres of rich and valuable land, located in Madison township, and here, owing to his well directed energy, is carrying on a successful business as an agriculturist. Mr. Gribling is a native son of Richland county, his birth having occurred at Little Washington, Washington township, February 21, 1848. His parents were Christian and Anna Maria (Strotder) Gribling, both natives of Germany, the former born in Nassau. He there learned the wagonmaker's trade and after attaining mature years he left; the fatherland for America. Upon reaching New York he made his way to Ohio, locating in Little Washington, where he worked at his trade for a time, and then located on a farm in Washington township, where he continued for nine years, or until the fall of 1859, when .he purchased the farm which is now the home of our subject. This tract of land had been pre-empted in 1814 by Michael Keith, who had come to this state from Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania. Mr. Gribling then located on this farm, which he continued to cultivate for several years, or until his death, which occurred in 1862, and he now lies buried in the Mansfield cemetery. He was a man most highly respected in the community, for he possessed many excellent traits of character, and in his business dealings 978 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY was known for his reliability and trustworthiness. As above stated, the mother, who bore the maiden name of Anna. Maria Strotder, was born in Germany, having emigrated to this country with her parents when she was but a child. She, too, has passed away, her death occurring in 1882, after she had survived her husband for two decades. Her remains lie buried by the side of those of her husband. In the family of this worthy couple were six children, as follows : Wilma, who became the wife of Gaylord Terman, but who is now deceased ; George H. ; Amanda, the widow of G. W. Toust; Rosena, the wife of Oliver Stotnor, of Keokuk, Iowa; one who died in infancy; and Frank, who is a contractor of Detroit, Michigan. George H. Gribling, the eldest son and second child in the father's family, acquired his education in the district schools of Washington and Madison townships and also spent one term in the Mansfield school. After completing his education he resumed agricultural pursuits, for he had been early trained to the duties of the home farm; and he has since operated his present tract of land, which comprises one hundred and sixty acres. When the family took possession of this property the old house which stood on the place was a portion of the old. Keith tavern, a familiar landmark, as it is located on the old stage road. This home, however, has been remodeled and added to, and Mr. Gribling now has a most comfortable and commodious country residence. He has also made many other improvements in the way of good barns and outbuildings and his place today presents a neat and attractive appearance. In the cultivation of his fields he uses the latest improved machinery and follows the most progressive ideas of agriculture, for he is a man of push and enterprise who keeps in touch with the advancement of the age in the methods of farm work. On the 12th of February, 1879, Mr. Gribling was united in marriage to Miss Neotia Cline, the wedding ceremony being celebrated in Mansfield. She is a representative of one of the old and prominent pioneer families of Richland county, and by her' marriage has become the mother of six children, namely : Nellie, the wife of Morris Crawl, who follows farming a mile north of our subject; Fanny the wife of Roy Terman, whose home is one mile north of her father's place; one who died in infancy; and Charlotte, Ralph and George F., all still under the parental roof. Mr. Gribling's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the men and measures of the democratic party and his genuine worth and ability have won him recognition by his fellow townsmen, who have called him to fill positions of honor and trust, for he served as county commissioner' for six, years, was supervisor five years, township trustee four years and has served on the school board for the past eighteen years, and the duties of these various offices have been discharged with promptness and fidelity. He is a member of the German Lutheran church, while Mrs. Gribling holds membership with the Christian church. His fraternal relations are with Mansfield Lodge, No. 161, I. O. O. F. Mr. Gribling is today the only representative of either his father's or mother's families in Richland county. His present home has been in possession of the family for almost a half century and no man in Richland county is more HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 979 highly respected. He has never deviated from the path of right and duty, and whether in private life, in official service or in business dealings his relations with those with whom he has come in contact have ever been in strict conformity to the principles of the Golden Rule. WILLIAM LINN. William Linn, who resided on his home place in Waller township continuously from 1875, until his death, was born in Stark county, Ohio, April 14, 1848, the son of John and Susannah (Stock) Linn. His father was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1812, and in early manhood located in Stark county, Ohio, where he engaged in farming. On August 23, 1833, he wedded Susannah Stock, who, was born September 17, 1816, and was, therefore, but seventeen years of age at the time of her marriage. They pursued life's journey together for over half a century, residing continuously on the old home place in Stark county. There the mother passed away July 26, 1888, while the father died December 6, 1884. William Linn remained at home with his parents until twenty-six years of age, and received his education in the common schools. On November 11, 1875, he was united in marriage to. Miss. Mary Ann Clingan, who was born in Weller township, July 4, 1854, the daughter of Thomas and Martha (Figley) Clingan. The Clingan family were among the pioneer settlers of this county, locating here prior to 1820, and entering a great deal of government land. Thomas Clingan was born in Weller township in 1825. He wedded Martha Figley, 'who was born in Ashland county in 1828. They became the parents of six children, of whom four are now living, namely : Mary Ann, the wife of our subject; Albert H., and John, both of whom reside in Weller township ; and Edward, who resides at Pavonia, this county. The father died on the home farm in 1885, while the mother survived him for twenty-two years, passing away in 1907. Following his marriage Mr. Linn purchased his farm of fifty-seven acres, which has since served as a home for his family. He remodeled the house, built a large barn and added such other buildings and improvements as were necessary in the profitable conduct of his farming operations. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Linn were born ten children, five sons and five daughters, namely: Clara, the wife of Elmer Bryte, of Ashland county ; Eula, the wife of Samuel Wirts, of Madison township ; Roy, who married Edna Runyon, and resides in Weller township ; Rhoda, the wife of Calvin Fisher, of Weller township; Pearl and Lee, who reside at home, farming the home farm ; and Ada, Dale, Bennie C., and Maurice, all of whom reside at home with their mother. Mr. Linn cast his ballot with the republican party and was elected to minor offices, having served as road supervisor, while for three years he was a member of the school board of his township. His religious faith was indicated by his attendance in the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his estimable wife is a faithful member. Throughout his life he faithfully performed those duties which devolved upon him, in the accomplishment of 980 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY which he found his greatest satisfaction, and he was richly rewarded in the love and respect of his family, and the esteem and honor in which he was held by the entire community: He died very suddenly August 19, 1908, dropping dead from apoplexy in Mansfield, and the entire community, as well as his immediate family, mourned his loss. GEORGE KNOFFLOCK. George Knoffiock, as chief of the fire department of Mansfield, is filling a position which requires the same soldierly qualities of fidelity and valor which was manifest during his four years' service as a defender of the Union cause in the Civil war.. He. has every reason to be proud of an excellent military record, for he met the enemy on many of the most hotly contested battlefields of the south. His birth occurred in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 3, 1847, his parents being Michael and Mary (McNeely) Knofflock. The father was born in Bavaria and served as a sailor in the American navy and a soldier during the Mexican war, and also as a private in the war of the Rebellion. He was married after coming to this country, his wife being a native of Pennsylvania. George Knofflock has been a resident of Mansfield since the 5th of April, 1861. He was at that time but fourteen years of age. Hardly had the smoke form Fort Sumter's guns cleared away when he offered his services in defense of the Union. His extreme youth, however, made it difficult for him to gain the right to serve as a soldier, but after several attempts made to enlist he was accepted July 27, 1861, as a private of Company E, Thirty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and after being mustered in at Mansfield went to West Virginia. He participated in the engagements at Greenbriar River, October 3,, 1861; . Allegheny Mountain, December 13, 1861; Pull Pasture, May 8, 1862; Cross Keys, June 8, 1862, and Port Republic on the 9th of June. On the 15th of September of the same year he was captured at Harper's Ferry, together with the entire regiment, but was at once paroled and exchanged in January, 1863, when he rejoined his command. The Thirty-second Ohio then proceeded to the main part of the army at Memphis, Tennessee, and was assigned to the Third Brigade of the Third Division of the Seventeenth Army Corps. Leaving Memphis they went to Lake Providence, Louisiana, afterward to Berry's Landing. and to Millikin's Bend, marching thence to Hard Times : Landing and crossing the . Mississippi river to Bruinsburg, Mississippi, on steamers which ran the blockade. They next went on a forced march to assist the Thirteenth Army Corps, which had previously crossed, and after reinforcing Thirteenth Corps they participated in the battle of Port Gibson, May 1, 1863; Raymond, May 12, 1863, and the capture of Jackson, Mississippi, on the 14th of May. At the battle of Champion's on the 16th of May, the Thirty-second Ohio captured the First Mississippi Battery: Later they crossed to Big Black River on Jackson road and thence proceeded to Vicksburg, participating in the siege of that city, which con- HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 983 tinued from the 20th of May until its surrender on the 4th of July. There Mr. Knofflock was assigned to prevost duty and while encamped at Vicksburg participated in several movements of the troops in the interior of Mississippi, and Louisiana. At the call for reenlistments of the regiments in the field he reenlisted December 9, 1863. He then joined Sherman's army on its raid in Meridian, Mississippi, and after the return of the regiment embarked at Vicksburg and started home on a veteran's furlough, reassembling after thirty days at Columbus, Ohio. From that point they were transported by a train and steamer and the .Seventeenth Army Corps mobilized at Cairo, Illinois, proceeding thence by steamer up the Ohio river to the mouth of the Tennessee river and by way of the latter stream to. Clifton, Tennessee. Leaving the steamer at that town the troops marched to reinforce Sherman's army, whch had started on the Atlanta campaign, getting into line at Acworth, Georgia. From that time on until the close of the war the Thirty-second Ohio was with Sherman's troops. Mr. Knofflock participated in the battles of Big Shanty and Kenesaw Monntain and crossing the Chattahooche river at Roswell, was in engagements on the 20th, 21st and 22d of July. The troops then swung to the rear of Hood's army, taking part in the engagement at Jonesboro, Georgia, and following the evacuation of Atlanta they went to East Point. When Hood. threw his army in the rear of Sherman they followed him to Gaylesville, Alabama, and after the separation of General Sherman's forces the Fourth and Twenty-third Army Corps followed Hood northward, while the Fourteenth, Fifteenth and Seventeenth Army Corps swung around again to Atlanta, joined the Twentieth Army Corps and on the 18th of November started on the famous march to the sea. Following the capture of Savannah, Georgia, they moved north through South Carolina and in this military movement Mr. Knofflock participated in the battles of Pocataligo and Salkahatchie Swamp. He then marched on to Orangeburg, South Carolina, to Columbia, to Chesaw, to Bennettsville, to Fayetteville and participated in the engagement at Bentonville.. Later the troops proceeded to Goldsboro, on to Raleigh, then to Danville and later to Petersburg, Richmond, Fredericksburg, Alexandria and to Washington, where Mr. Knoffiock with his command participated in the grand review—the most celebrated military pageant ever seen on the western hemisphere. Thousands of victorious Union troops. marched through. the streets of the city and passed the reviewing stand, where the president and other notables of the nation stood greeting the soldiers on their return, while over broad Pennsylvania avenue swung a banner bearing these words: "The only debt which our country cannot pay is the One that she owes her soldiers." From Washington the troops proceeded to Parkersburg, West Virginia, by rail, and thence by steamer to Louisville, Kentucky, being discharged at Columbus, Ohio, July 27, 1865. Thus after four years' faithful and valorous service Mr. Knofflock. returned to the pursuits of civil life. Locating at Mansfield, Ohio, he at once joined No. 1 fire company on the 2d of September, 1865, as a.volunteer fireman and has been continuously since in the service. On the 1st of June, 1885, he was promoted to the position of chief of the department and has so continued to the present time. 984 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY On the 1st of December, 1869, he entered the employ of the Aultman-Taylor Company, with which he continued until he resigned July 1, 1907, and has since given his entire time and attention to his duties as chief of the city fire department. Mr. Knofflock has been married twice. He first wedded Alvena McMillen, of Mansfield, who died in 1872, leaving one son, George, who yet resides in this city. For his second wife Mr. Knofflock chose Caroline H. Smith, of Mansfield, and they have two children, Archer D. and Julia F., both of Mansfield. Mr. Knofflock is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the lodge, chapter and commandery. He is also connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and is a most valued active and prominent member of Post No. 131, G. A. R., of which he was commander over twenty years ago. The chief characteristic of his life perhaps has been his fidelity and faithfulness. This was manifest on the field of battle and has been a salient feature in his connection with the fire department. He commands the respect of all who know him and few men of his years can boast of such an excellent and irreproachable military record. His feeling toward his old army comrades is excellently shown in an article which he he wrote entitled "Memorial Day," in which he vividly portrays scenes in ccnnection with the war and pays his tribute to those heroes who fell in the strife or have since answered to the last roll call. ARTHUR S. HUGHES Arthur S. Hughes, making the steady progress that should always come through experience and the careful directing of one's powers and native talents, has worked his way upward from' an apprenticeship until he stands today as one of the leading representatives of industry in Mansfield. He is well known in this city and in fact throughout this part of the state as the senior partner of the firm of Hughes & Keenan, boiler manufacturers. His life record began in Mansfield; November 13, 1879, his birthplace being the old family home at 117 Glessner avenue. His father, John Hughes, was also a native of this county and was born near Black Fork. He was of Pennsylvania-Dutch descent and came to Mansfield about forty-five years ago, since which time he has engaged continuously in the ice business. To this undertaking he now gives his entire time but for some years engaged in street contracting as well: At the time of the Civil war he rendered active allegiance to his country on the field of battle and is one of the honored veterans of the long civil conflict. Although he has reached the allotted age of three score years and ten he seems a man of much younger age and in spirit and interests as well as in physical activity seems yet in his prime. He married Martha O'Neil, a native of Pennsylvania, who came to Ashland county in her girlhood days. She is still living at the age of sixty-five years. In their family were seven children, of whom six are living: Della, the wife of Charles Beck, of Mansfield; Millie, the wife of E. A. Evans, also of this city; Judson W., directing engineer for a HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 985 boiler concern and a resident. of Mansfield; Charles Henry, assistant cashier of the Richland Savings Bank; Arthur S. and Frank, a machinist of Mansfield. Arthur S. Hughes acquired his education in the public schools of this city, supplemented by study under the direction of correspondence schools after he had entered the field of business. At the age of seventeen years he entered upon an apprenticeship 'as boilermaker with the Aultman-Taylor Company, with whom he remained for eleven years. When nineteen years of age he was sent to South America by that company and spent two years there and in the West Indies, directing engineering. He also traveled for six years with the Aultman-Taylor Company as a directing engineer, visiting every state in the Union. In recognition. of his ability he received rapid promotion and during the last two years of his connection with the company, was assistant foreman of the boiler department, planned the work and did the drafting for the shop. The man of ambition is never content, however, to remain in the employ of others and Mr.. Hughes eagerly availed himself of the opportunity of engaging in business on his own account. In October, 1906, he formed a partnership with Thomas Keenan under the firm style of Hughes & Keenan and established his present business, directing a factory for the manufacture of boilers, tanks and general sheet and structural iron work. From the beginning the new enterprise has proved successful and the firm has enjoyed all the business which it can handle. He also has various other interests and investments, including his residence at 117 Glessner avenue. . On the 24th of December, 1902, Mr. Hughes was married to Miss Bessie Morgan, a daughter of .Arthur Morgan, an engineer at the sewerage disposal plant for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Hughes have two children—Alberta May, two years of age, and Mary Helen, one year old. In politics Mr. Hughes is a republican, but not strongly partisan. He holds membership with the First Christian church, and is interested in all that pertains to the welfare of the city. Formerly active in baseball and outdoor sports, he now finds that his business leaves him no time for participation therein and his energies and attention are successfully directed to the upbuilding and developing of the business which is already one of the profitable, industrial concerns of Mansfield. GIDEON A. OLIN. Gideon A. Olin is perhaps one of the oldest native born sons of Richland county now residing within its borders. He is the owner of a good farm of one hundred and thirty acres, situated in Jefferson township, and is still actively engaged in agricultural pursuits, although he has passed the seventieth milestone on the journey, of life. He was born on a farm in Washington township, November 29, 1838, a son of Nathaniel Green and Phoebe (Roberts) Olin, the former born in Shaftsbury, Vermont, in 1805, while the mother's birth occurred in Wallingford, that state. The father removed from his 986 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY native state to Richland county in 1838 and here purchased one hundred acres of land in Washington township, for which he paid seventeen dollars and a half per acre. He made his home there for many years, but later removed to a farm in Jefferson township, where his death occurred when he was seventy-six years of age. They became the parents of eleven children, of whom our subject is the third in order of birth. All grew to manhood and womanhood. G. A. Olin was reared to the pursuits of farm life and acquired his education in the common schools. He remained with his father until he had reached the age of twenty-eight years, during which time he assisted in the operation of the home property. He then started out upon an independent business career by the purchase of forty acres and has since extended its boundaries until he is now in possession of one hundred .and thirty acres, all of which is in a good state of cultivation. He has made many improvements upon this place and it is now one of the best farm properties in this section of the state. In 1876 Mr. Olin was united in marriage to Miss Martha Ann Bowland, who was at that time a resident of this county, although her birth occurred in Lexington, this state. After traveling the journey of life together for twenty-three years this worthy couple was separated by the death of the wife in 1899. Their union was blessed with two sons. Nathaniel Green wedded Laura Stuff, by whom he had two children, Harold and Ada, but he passed away about four years ago. The younger son, George Herbert, wedded his brother's widow, and they have one daughter, Nellie. Mr. Olin formerly gave his political support to the republican party, but for the past six years had supported the principles of the democratic party. He is a representative of our best type of American manhood and chivalry Through persistent effort, determination and energy he has surmounted eve obstacle which has barred his path and has worked his way upward to success until today he stands as one of the substantial citizens of his section of the state. JOHN HENRY HESS. John Henry Hess is one of the enterprising and progressive young farmers of Richland county, and in connection with his father, is operating one of the largest tracts of land in this section of the state. He is a native son of the county, his birth' having occurred, on a farm in Springfield township, August 22, 1863. He is the eldest of three children born of the marriage Of Reuben and Margaret A. (Leppo) Hess, of whom mention is made below. The other children are: Sarah A., the wife of W. W. Kohler; of Franklin township and T. W., who is married and is at home. John Henry Hess, whose name introduces this review, was reared on the home farm and remained with his parents until he had reached the age of twenty-five years. He was then married, November 20, 1888, to Miss Carrie Craighead, a daughter of David and Eliza Craighead. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 987 Following his marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hess began their domestic life upon one hundred and sixty acres of land belonging to his father, and here he still makes his home. In addition to this tract he also farms one hundred acres longing to J. W. Leppo, of Shelby. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, following the most modern and advanced methods in his work and he also raises stock to some extent. During the harvest season he operates a threshing machine in partnership with his brothers-in-law, under the name of J. H. Hess & Company. For the past four years they have been this engaged and in this connection have a wide acquaintance throughout various sections. of the county.   The home of Mr. and Mrs. Hess has been blessed with three children: Pearl Grace, who died when an infant of nineteen days; one who died in infancy; and Kenneth Elwood. The political views of Mr. Hess accord with the principles and policy of the democratic party, and he has been called to fill some local offices: On the 14th of May, 1908, he was appointed trustee of Jackson township to fill a vacancy, while for three years he served on the school board, acting as president of the board for two years. He is also a director on the board Of the Richland County Agricultural Society, having served for four years. He ever takes a lively interest in public affairs, lending his aid and influence in the cause of every good movement and heartily promoting the progress and advancement of his community. REUBEN HESS. Reuben Hess, who owns and cultivates three hundred and twenty acres of rich and arable land on section 35, Jackson township, was born in Lisbon, Columbiana county, Ohio, January 3, 1841, and when a little lad of four years removed to Delaware county, Ohio; with his parents, Henry and Sarah (Bechtel) Hess, the former born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, in 1811, and the latter in Northampton county, that state, in 1815. They were married in Columbiana county, Ohio, where they made their home for a few years, but later took up their abode in Galion;. Crawford county, where they lived from 1855 until 1859. In the latter year, the father purchased a farm in Jackson township and was identified with the agricultural interests of this section of the state throughout a long period. He passed away in Madison township, this county, when he had reached the age of sixty-four years, while his widow survived and passed away at the advanced age of eighty-six years. Their family numbered eight children, as follows: Reuben; William, a resident of Mifflin township; George, who makes his home in Delaware county; Emanuel and Mary E., who have departed this life; Isaac, also deceased; Mrs. Amanda C. Dutcher, a widow, residing in Los Angeles, California; and Mrs. Flora J. Terman, who resides in Mansfield. Reuben Hess, the eldest child in his father's family, accompanied his parents on their various removals until they took up their abode in Galion, Crawford county, in 1855. 'During that summer he came to Richland county 988 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY and secured work on a farm. In the fall of that year he made his way to Delaware county, where he was employed in a similar capacity. Two years later, in 1857, he came to Jackson township and worked for John Leppo, whose daughter afterward became his wife. He remained in the employ of Mr. Leppo for eight months and in the following year was employed on a farm north of Shelby. In 1859 the father purchased a farm in Jackson township and the son joined him, remaining thereon: until 1862, when he was married and established a home of his own, his union being with Miss Margaret A. Leppo, who was born January 7, 1841, a daughter of John and Mary Ann (Heller) Leppo, both natives of Washington county, Maryland, .where they were reared and married. They came to Richland county about 1833, and here the father engaged in farming until the time of his death, owning at one time five hundred acres of. land, which he divided among his children, numbering nine, of whom five reached mature years. The mother died in 1887, when she had reached the age of seventy-three years, while the father survived for many years, his death occurring in 1900, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty years. Following the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hess, they took up their abode upon a tract of land in Springfield township belonging to the father of Mrs. Hess. In 1864, however, Mr. Hess removed to his present farm, comprising three hundred and twenty acres, situated on section 26, Jackson township. He rented this land for twelve years, after which he purchased the property. He has improved the place with good buildings, having in 1884 erected a brick house containing twelve rooms, and he also built a good bank barn and has erected many other substantial outbuildings. He now has two complete sets, and in connection with his son, is carrying on agricultural pursuits on large scale. He is also engaged in raising stock, and this branch of his business is proving very profitable to him. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hess has been blessed with three children, namely: John Henry; Sarah Ann, the wife of W. W. Kohler, a resident of Franklin township ; and Thomas William, who wedded Jessie A. Moon and resides on the home farm. They have a family of five children. Mr. Hess has been a life-long democrat, . and for two terms he served as trustee of the township and has acted as school director. Such, in brief, is the life history of Reuben Hess. In whatever relation of life we find him–in political circles, in business or in social relations—he is always the same honorable and-honored gentleman, whose worth merits the high regard which is extended him. SAMUEL EDWIN FINDLEY, M. D. Dr. Samuel Edwin Findley belongs to that class of citizens who are leaving their impress for good upon the public life of the community. In his profession he has gained more than local distinction, while his business ability is manifest in several other lines. His co-operation in affairs of moment HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 989 to the city is proving an effective force for its upbuilding and advancement, and, therefore, he deserves classification with its representative residents. He was born in Chetopa, Kansas, Ocfober 22, 1871, a son of the Rev.. W.. A. and Maggie (Gordon) Findley, the former a native of New Concord, Ohio, and the latter of Allegheny, Pennsylvania. His parents now reside in Seattle, Washington, where the father officiates as minister of a United. Presbyterian church. Of their family of nine children, seven still survive. When still very young Dr, Findley accompanied his parents on their removal from Chetopa to Independence, Missouri, where he was graduated from the high school at the age of fifteen years. Subsequently he entered Monmouth College, at Monmouth, Illinois, and received the Bachelor of Arts degree from that institution when twenty-two years of age. Determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he became a student in Rush. Medical College of Chicago, and when he had completed the prescribed course was graduated with honors in a class of three hundred and thirty. He supplemented his professional knowledge by spending considerable time, when a college student, in the Cook County, Presbyterian and St. Elizabeth hospitals, and thus greatly augmented his ability through his observations of the methods of prominent physicians and surgeons as well as through the practical experience which he gained in those institutions. Continued reading and study have supplemented his collegiate course, and in 1906 he pursued a post-graduate course in the Chicago Post-Graduate School. For two years following his graduation he practiced his profession in association with Dr: Blair, his former preceptor, and in 1897 came to Mansfield, Ohio, where he has since been recognized as an able and successful representative of the medical fraternity. By his labors, his high professional attainments and his sterling characteristics he has justified the respect and confidence in which he is held by the medical fraternity and he local public. He has held all of the offices of the Richland County Medical Society, and is likewise a member of the Ohio State Medical Society, and the American Medical Association, while of the Bankers' Life Insurance Company and the Cleveland Life Insurance Company he is examining physician. He is also acting as surgeon for the Mansfield division of the Cleveland Southwestern Railroad. Aside from his professional labors Dr. Findley has displayed excellent business ability and management in the conduct of his farming enterprises. He owns one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land in Weller township, studies and carries on farming from the scientific standpoint, enriching the soil after the most approved modern methods and improving his products through experiment and investigation.. He is a stockholder in the Farmers Savings & Trust Company Bank. On the 25th of October, 1899, Dr. Findley was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Carpenter, a daughter of George Carpenter, a pioneer of Mansfield. In his fraternal relations he is a Mason, and in the daily discharge of his professional duties exemplifies the beneficent teachings of the craft. Both he and his wife are members of the United Presbyterian church and also hold membership relations with the Country Club. In his political views Dr. Findley is a republican, and is now serving as a central committeeman of 990 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY his district. He is not a politician in the sense of office seeking, but takes an interest for the sake of clean politics, and at all times stands for a strict observance of law, whether it be on the part of the individual, of a corporation or of an organization. His, position is never an equivocal one, for on the contrary he stands stanchly in support of what he believes to be for the welfare and best interests of the community. CLARK BURTON HINES. Clark Burton Hines, a prominent Richland county attorney, was born February 6, 1860, in Bellville, Richland county, Ohio, and is the son of Benjamin F. and Mary J. (Armstrong) Hines. He represents, an old southern family, his grandfather, Philip Hines, having been born in Maryland, whence he came to Ohio at an early day, settling in the southern part of Richland county. He was a farmer by occupation and lived to an advanced age. His wife bore the maiden name of Lydia Root; also belonged to a prominent Maryland family near Hagerstown. Their son, Benjamin F. Hines, was born in Richland county, September 26, 1829, on his father's farm south of Bellville, and died March 23, 1893. Mrs. Mary J. Hines was born in Richland county, four miles south of Bellville, on the old state road, July 4, 1827, and is the daughter of Isaac and Mary (Strong) Armstrong. Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Hines were married August 12, 1850, and the same year took up their residence Bellville, where Mr. Hines engaged in the manufacture of boots and sho a number of years, and, prospering, bought several valuable farms, to whic in later years he devoted. his attention. In politics he was a democrat and held a number of township and municipal offices. Fraternally he was a member of the Masonic and the Odd Fellows fraternities. In the family we two sons and one daughter, but Clark B. is the only one living, the othe dying in infancy. B. F. Hines, the lather of the subject of this sketch, was a gentleman free from circuity and deceit, reasonable and just. In his business relations he was honest, faithful and capable. The solid qualities which he possessed abundant common sense and cool judgment. and, a discriminating mind led him to be regarded as one of the best business men in the. community, also led to his financial success. Mrs. Mary J. Hines, the mother of the subject of this narrative, is passing her declining years in the old family home, happy in the companionship of her devoted son and his estimable young wife, and amid the friends and assoclates of a lifetime. Mrs. Hines has been a faithful wife, a loving mother and a good neighbor and faithful friend. It has been said that the highest compliment that can be ,given a woman is to say that she is a good mother, and surely Mrs. Hines is one of the best of mothers and an exemplary woman Clark Burton Hines was reared amid the refining influences of a good home,. and: in the public schools he acquired his primary education. He worked in his father's store at various intervals, thus acquiring a buriness HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 993 training early in life. His preliminary studies were supplemented by a course in the high school at Mansfield and in a Cleveland college. After his father's death he conducted a boot and shoe business in Bellville with good success until 1899, when he sold out to devote his time wholly to his profession. Clark B. Hines took up the study of law in 1885, and was admitted to the bar in 1896 and opened a law office in Bellville, equipped with a good law library, and growing gradually into practice soon had cases in the courts of Richland, Morrow and Knox counties. He carefully prepares his cases and protects every point of attack, and in his manipulation of evidence he is methodical and discriminating, is cool, calm and unshaken, and is not easily flung from his poise. He has now been engaged in the practice of law twelve years and by strict attention to his professional duties, by careful investigation of the legal questions that are brought before him for consideration, he is now recognized as one of the safe and reliable attorneys of the Richland county bar. As an attorney he is learned in the law and is familiar with precedents; as a counselor, he is careful and judicious; as an advocate, he is able and logical. He talks readily to the point without the use of superlatives; in manner he is unpretentious, honest, alert, firm and courageous and steadfast to his clients. Mr. Hines wisely chose the law as his profession and life pursuit. The environment of his early years, its discipline, his school course and drill, the culture that comes. from books and study; his success as a lawyer and the standard in his profession to which he has risen, all attest the wisdom of his choice. It can truthfully be said of Mr. Hines that his uniform sincerity inspires confidence. Confucius recognized the worth of this class of men when he said, "Faithfulness and sincerity are the highest things." Carlyle wrote, "I should say sincerity is the first characteristic of all men in any way prominent." Mr. Hines was admitted to practice in the supreme court of the United States at Washington, D. C., April 30, 1908, and on July 15 of the same year he formed a partnership with Samuel Marriott, of Mansfield, and the firm is now located in the Carpenter block, corner of Main and Third streets. Mr. Marriott is one .of the most prominent lawyers in Richland county and his knowledge of the law is never questioned, in fact he is called the walking encyclopedia of the Mansfield bar. This partnership, so auspiciously formed, will doubtless prove beneficial to ea.ch. of the firm. Mr. Hines still retains his law office in Bellville, as a matter both of convenience and sentiment, for his residence is there, and before coming to Mansfield he had served three terms as mayor of that village. Clark B. Hines was married, April 15, 1908, to Miss Eva S. Tucker, daughter of D. F. and Mary (Welty) Tucker, of Monroe township. Eva S. (Tucker) Hines was born June 25, 1869. Her father is a wealthy and influential farmer of Monroe township. The Tuckers are of New England orgin and are noted for their industry, thrift and upright character. In the years gone by the writer of this sketch lived next door to the Hines family and has known Clarke B. Hines as boy and man for over forty years, and can attest to the good qualities. of his life, which has been an interesting one. The only child of wealthy parents, he had good advantages in his youth 994 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY which he was not slow to improve. The natural trend of his mind was to the law, but there were obstacles in his path—not those of poverty, which so many young men have encountered but those of wealth. He had business interests to look after, farms to superintend and a store to manage, all of which he did successfully, but he did not permit their cares nor allurements to detract his mind from the course he had marked out, and the result is that he now is one of the most prominent lawyers of the Mansfield bar. J. F. CRAIGLOW. A good farm of one hundred and sixteen acres on section 21, Springfield township, pays tribute to the care and labor which J. F. Craiglow bestows upon it. The greater part of his life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits and long experience has given him ability in carrying on the farm work. He was born in this county September 25, 1847, his parents being J. H. and Sophia (Myers) Craiglow, also natives of Ohio. The father's birth occurred in Richland county, while the mother was born in Stark county He died October 27, 1881, and Mrs. Craiglow, surviving him for about seven years, passed away August 21, 1888. They were the parents of the following children : Jacob, who died while serving in the Civil war; J. F., of this review; Sarah E., the wife of John Huss, of this county; Charles, deceased; Hannah N., the wife of John Barber; Margaret M., the wife of Fremont Crall, of this county; Elmira, the wife of N. Pluck, of Mansfield; and two who died in infancy. J. F. Craiglow well deserves to be termed a self-made man and meits all the praise that the term implies, for he started out in life on his own account when but ten years of age, working at farm labor for fourteen years, during which time he acquired, through his industry and economy, the capital that enabled him to purchase eighty acres of land. He became owner of a tract of that size in Van Wert county, Ohio, but after eighteen months sold the property and then again worked as a farm hand for two years. He then purchased the farm upon which he now resides, comprising one hundred and sixteen acres of rich and productive land on section 21, Springfield township. He has cultivated his fields until they bring forth rich and abundant harvests and his labors are attended with a gratifying measure of success. On the 7th of March, 1872, Mr. Craiglow was married to Miss Mary E. Neal, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, in 1848. Her father, Joseph Neal, was a native of the same county, born in 1818, while his wife was born in 1819, in Chambersburg, Franklin county, Pennsylvania. Their family numbered ten children. The father died in 1903 and the mother passed away in 1890 The home of Mr. and Mrs. Craiglow has been blessed with four children: William E., who was born April 15, 1873, was married and lives in Kansas City, Missouri, where he is manager of the telephone company; Mercelles D., born July 10, 1878, is manager for a telephone company in Salt Lake City, Utah ; Mary S. is the wife of Alfonzo Mabee, and Venus Baron completes the family. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 995 Mr. and Mrs. Craiglow are both earnest and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and he belongs to the Masonic lodge at Shelby, in which he has served in several official positions. His political support is always given the republican party, for he believes that its principles are most conducive to good government, He owes his success entirely to his own. efforts and the assistance of his estimable wife, who has indeed been a faithful helpmate on life's journey. When they first located on the farm where they now live there was only a small log cabin eighteen by twenty feet, and in it they lived for seventeen years, after which they erected their present modern and comfortable farm residence. Other improvements have been added from time to time and the best machinery has been secured to facilitate the work of the fields, until the farm is today one of the well improved properties of Springfield township. Everything about the place indicates the careful supervision of the owner, whose labors are carefully directed by sound judgment and who in all of his work has been actuated by an honorable purpose and laudable ambition. T. P. PATTERSON. T. P. Patterson, who carries on general farming on section 26, Springfield township, was born in this township November' 7, 1850. His father, Robert Patterson, was a native of County Donegal, Ireland, and on coming to the United States, at the age of fifteen years, attracted by the broader business opportunities of the new world, he established his home in Harrison county, Ohio, near Cadiz, where he learned the tanner's trade. After following that occupation for about ten years he removed to Holmes county and invested the capital, which he had secured through his industry and diligence, in eighty acres of land, thus becoming identified with general agricultural pursuits. After operating the farm for three years he sold that property and removed to Springfield township, Richland county, arriving about 1830. Here he purchased two hundred and sixty-five acres of land, a part of which constitutes the farm now owned and operated by his son, T. P. Patterson. In 1824 Robert Patterson had been married to Miss Mary Himes, who was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, and was of Irish lineage. They became the parents of thirteen children. William. H., the eldest, born November 29, 1829, served for twenty-one months as a soldier of the Union Army in the war of the Rebellion, and was wounded three times in the battle of Shiloh, and yet carries one ball in his foot. At length he was honorably discharged on account of disabilities resulting from the injuries he had sustained at the front. He was afterward for thirty years baggage master on the Pennsylvania Railroad, but is now living retire& in Mansfield. Dr. Alexander Patterson, the second son, was born April 9, 1831., and died in 1893, at which time he was one of the oldest medical practitioners in Richland county in years of continuous connection with the profession here. He, too, did valuable aid for his country in the dark days of the Civil war, serving first as first sergeant of 996 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY the One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, while later he was promoted to post sergeant, holding that rank at the time he was discharged. Sarah. Ann Patterson, the third member of the family, was born June 23, 1832, and is the wife of Job Race, a retired contractor and builder of Trenton, Grundy county, Missouri. Jane, born February 7, 1834, died in 1853. John, born July 22, 1835, is living in Topeka, Kansas. James, born May 1, 1837, is now engaged in the hardware business in Denver, Colorado. Robert, born January 10, 1839, died at the age of sixty-eight years. He served for three years in the First Ohio Independent Battery, and at the close of the war returned to Springfield township, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits until his death. Elizabeth, born July 7, 1842, is the widow of Brown Stewart, and is located at Trenton, Missouri. Henry Clay, born May 14, 1844, also served in the Civil war, and laid down his life on the altar of his country, dying at Dalton, Georgia, in the army hospital from a complication of diseases brought on by exposure and the hardships of war. Mary Malissa, born April 17, 1846, was married October 20, 1870, to Marion Francis Young, a carpenter of Mansfield, Ohio, but after a short married life of three years the husband died. He had previously served for three years in the First Ohio Independent Battery, enlisting when but fifteen years of age. After his death Mrs. Young returned to the old homestead and has since lived with her brother, T. P. Patterson. Emma Loretta, born October 22, 1847, is the wife of James B. Patton, of Trenton, Missouri. T. P. Patterson is the youngest of the family. Robert Patterson, the father of these children, lived a life that was beyond criticism. He was a faithful, consistent and helpful member of the Methodist Protestant church for fifty-six years, and died in that faith January 13,1887, being laid to rest in Marlow cemetery in Springfield township. His life was characteristic of all that is noblest and best in manhood and of him it might be said, as it was of the man of old, "Behold an Israelite in whom there is no guile." His good wife and faithful companion followed him to the grave five years later. In taking up the personal. history of T. P. Patterson we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely .and favorably known in Richland county, for his entire .life has been passed in Springfield township. He pursued his education in the district schools, and the occupation to which he was reared he has made his life work. He early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and as the years have passed has devoted his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits. He has also made a specialty of raising blooded horses and cattle and bred Charles Vogle, the Hambletonian colt which later sold at Jersey. City, New Jersey, for five thousand dollars He now has upon his place some valuable stock, and at present owns and cultivates one hundred and fifteen acres of rich and productive land situated on section 26, Springfield township. On the 3d of October, 1883, Mr. Patterson was united in marriage to Miss Lillian Keller, a resident of this township. His political views are in accord with the republican platform, but while he has never sought nor desired Office, he has always been loyal in citizenship and interested in the welfare and HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 997 progress of his native county. The family is an old one here, having been represented in the county for seventy-eight years, and its members have taken an active part in the development and progress of this locality. HIRAM W. HILDEBRANT. Carlisle has said "biography is the most interesting, as well as the most profitable, of all reading." There is no history which the American public holds in higher esteem than that of a man who, without special advantages at the outset of his career, wins for himself an honorable name and place in the business world. This Hiram W. Hildebrant has done, recognizing the fact that while opportunity is open to all there must be in the individual the power and desire to utilize this opportunity. A native of New York, Mr. Hildebrant was born in Lockport, Niagara county, in 1844, his parents being Frederick and Cornelia (Snyder) Hildebrant, also natives of that state. Both are now deceased, the former having died in October, 1848, at the age of forty-four years, while the mother's death occurred in January, 1872, when she was sixty-six years of age. Their family numbered eight children, and the subject of this review was but four years old at the time of his father's demise. The removal of the family to Shelby, Ohio, enabled him to pursue his education 'in the public schools, and passing through consecutive grades he at length completed the high-school course. Early in his business career he took up the profession of teaching, which he followed for five years, beginning in 1868. He has engaged continuously in the real-estate and insurance business since 1872 .and stands as one of the foremost representatives of these lines in Richland county. He became one of the organizers of the Plate Glass Insurance Company, and at that time was chosen vice president, in which position he continued until elected to the presidency in 1896. He was also chosen the chief executive officer of the Building & Loan Association. of Shelby and was elected to the presidency of the Shelby Stove Company upon its organization in May, 1900. This company was organized for the purpose of manufacturing gas and gasoline stoves and was capitalized for fifty thousand dollars. These interests, however, do not cover the extent of Mr. Hildebrant's connection with business affairs in Shelby. He is a man of marked fertility of resources, who has the ability to plan and to perform and to associate into a harmonious whole many complex and even diverse business interests. He is well known in financial circles as the vice president and director of the Citizens Bank, having been associated therewith in those official capacities since its organization in 1895. He is also a stockholder in the Ohio Seamless Tube Company, the Shelby Electrical Company and the Sutter Furniture Company. Whatever he undertakes he carries forward to successful completion, knowing that industry and perseverance constitute an excellent foundation upon which to rear the superstructure of success. His plans, too, are always well defined and he prosecutes them with a determination formed of unfaltering energy. 998 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Hildebrant was married in December, 1869, to Miss Adelaide Gamble, whose father, Judge Hugh Gamble, of Shelby, was one of the pioneer residents of this portion of the state. Of their three children, the eldest, Carlos M., who was born in December, 1871, was thrown from a horse and killed in October, 1885. Hugh G., born in August, 1873, is now cashier of the Citizens Bank. Bessie Fay was born 1882 and is the only daughter. Mr. Hildebrant has always been deeply interested in municipal affairs and while his business interests have contributed in substantial measure to the material progress and welfare of the community he has also aided in many other and more direct ways in promoting the city's growth and interests. The cause of education found in him a stalwart champion during his eighteen years' service on the school board, of which he continuously served as clerk with the exception of one year. He filled the office of justice of the peace for twenty-four years, and his decisions have "won golden opinions from all sorts of people." He was elected city clerk about 1874, and when he had held the position for about a half term was chosen by popular suffrage to the office of mayor, wherein he was retained by general election for three consecutive terms. His administration was characterized by needed reforms and improve. ments and won for him the thorough confidence and regard of the public. Fraternally Mr. Hildebrant is connected with the Masons and with the Knights of Pythias, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. While it is a common thing to point to the lives of those who have lived many years ago that one may gain inspiration and encouragement therefrom, it is needless to go to the past for examples that are worthy of emulation. Such a career as Mr. Hildebrant's proves conclusively what can be accomplished through intense and well directed activity. He has learned to make the best use of his opportunities and powers, and to weave into a composite, but harmonious whole, the different threads of activity, at all times placing his dependence upon unremitting diligence, honorable purpose and unfaltering integrity. MARTHA CROUCH. Martha Crouch is a representative of one of the old families of Richland county, Ohio. She is a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and came with her parents to this county in 1850. Here her father, Boyd Mercer Crouch, purchased the farm upon which his two daughters now reside, and the old buildings still stand that were erected here over eighty years ago, They have been mute witnesses of the many changes which have occurred, and are landmarks in the locality. For a long period the father carried on general agricultural pursuits, bringing his land under a high state of cultivation, and converting it into very productive fields. In his family were the following children : Maria, now the wife of Rev. Charles Knepper, a resident of Pennsylvania; Martha, who is living on the old homestead; James, deceased; HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 999 and Belle, who resides with her sister Martha. There was also one child who died in infancy. Mr. Crouch was accounted one of the worthy farmers and reliable business men. He worked diligently year after year in cultivating his crops and as the years passed he won a fair measure of success. In relation to community affairs he also manifested a progressive spirit, always desiring the welfare of the county. In his dealings he was ever reliable, and those who knew him entertained, for him warm regard in recognition of his sterling worth. He died in 1902 and his wife passed away about the same time, both being in their eightieth year, When called to their final rest. The two daughters; Martha and Bell Crouch, still reside upon the old homestead and give personal Supervision to the operation of the farm of eighty acres, manifesting good business ability in its control. They are both members of the United Presbyterian church, and are held in high esteem in the community where they have now resided for more than a half century. MRS. SOPHIA JANE PARKER. Among the ladies of Richland county who have extensive and valuable property possessions and display marked business ability and keen discernment in their control is numbered Mrs. Sophia Jane Parker, who is living on section 24, Perry township. There an excellent farm of two hundred and twenty-one acres pays tribute to the care and labor which are bestowed upon it under her direction, so that she deserves a gratifying annual income from the property. She was born in Noble county, Indiana, November 25, 1849, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. Amos Black. Her father was born in Maryland, while her mother was a native of Pennsylvania. Removing from the east to the middle west, they became residents of Indiana, where they lived for many years, but are now deceased. Their daughter Sophia was one of a family of seven children and her girlhood days were spent under the parental roof, where she early became familiar with the work of the household, while in the public schools she acquired a good education. On the 15th of April, 1880, she became the wife of George W. Parker, who was born in 'Perry township, this county, July 17, 1838, a son of Robert and Elizabeth. Parker, both of whom were natives of Maryland. They came to Ohio in the, '20s, settling in Richland county, and here they reared their family of eleven children. George W. Parker early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He worked, in the fields through the summer months, and attended the district schools in the winter season. After attaining his majority he engaged in farming on his own account, and throughout his entire life he carried on the work of tilling the soil. He made many substantial improvements upon his place, cultivated the fields in accordance with modern methods and annually gathered rich crops, which found a ready sale on the market and brought to him a good financial return.