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JACKSON TOWNSHIP.

BARBER, M. M., Justice of the Peace, and farmer; He was born in Union Co., Penn., Nov. 8, 1824. At 14 years of age, he went to learn the trade of printing, in New Berlin, Penn., in the office of the Evangelical Association, which has since been removed to Cleveland, Ohio; he worked at printing some six years, learning the various branches of the trade; the business not agreeing with his health, he left the office, and, with his wife and father-in-law, in 1848, started for Ohio, and settled near where he now resides. He was elected Township Clerk in 1848, which office he has held ever since, except one year; in 1850, he was also elected Justice of the Peace, which office he has since held, being elected ten successive times of three years each ; he has also been delegate to numerous political conventions ; he enjoys the confidence of the community, and his decisions are rarely reversed; he is a Director of the Buckeye Fire Insurance Company of Shelby. He is a man of quiet demeanor. Politically, he is a Democrat. He was married to Mary Ann Garret Sept. 9, 1845, in Union Co., Penn.; they had ten children, nine of whom are living; Mrs. Barber was born in Union Co., Penn., Aug. 8, 1826.

BARNES, PATRICK, farmer; be was born in Franklin Co., Penn., in 1814, and spent his early days there; he was put out to work about the age of 10 years with his uncle; his parents being poor, he was thus compelled to go out in the world ; he remained with his uncle until he was about 19 years of age, when he went to work at the carpenter trade with William Mackey, of Franklin Co., Penn., and served two years, and then at journeyman's work; he followed his trade until he came to Ohio, about 1844; he had previously come out, however, and worked for several months; be settled in Jackson Township, and followed his trade, contracting and building, until within the last few years. He was married to Miss Catharine Picking, in February, 1843; they had ten children, eight of whom are living; his wife died in May, 1879. He is spending his remaining days on his pleasant farm, about three miles east of Shelby; he built a number of the buildings in his neighborhood, and was considered a reliable workman.

BRICKER, ISAAC, farmer and stock-raiser; be woe born in Lebanon Co., Penn., July 24, 1823; his father, Copt. Henry Brisker, was known by that nature from the fact that he raised a company of men and started for Baltimore, at which place there was a battle going on between the American and British armies; before he arrived, however, the fight was over, and he returned home with his company; he still kept his company organized, ready for any emergency. He was born in Lancaster, Penn., in January, 1790, where he lived until the year 1831, when he, with his wife and five children, emigrated to Ohio and settled in Jackson Township, about three and a half miles southeast of Shelby, where his son Isaac now resides. After he purchased the property, he commenced the erection of a place to live in ; there was an unfinished building that had been intended for a schoolhouse, which he completed for a dwelling; this stood near where the present dwelling now stands; he then commenced the arduous task of clearing up the farm and improving. He was active in all the affairs of the county and township, which he adopted as his home, but refused all offers to take any part as an officer in the affairs of the community. He had the esteem of the community in which he lived, being honest, plain and blunt, never fearing to speak his mind freely. He died in 1855, leaving a family of five sons. His wife, whose maiden name was Rachel Kneesle, survived him some fifteen

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years. The subject of this sketch spent his youth on farm, attending such schools as were in the community at that time. In 1849, he was taken with the "gold fever," and he with five others, started, joining a party at Independence, Mo.; they crossed the overland route. He remained there three years, working in the mines and was successful in accomplishing his purpose. He returned home by way of the Isthmus; he remained about six months in Ohio and Pennsylvania. He again returned to California by way of the same route he came, and engaged in the same business, that of mining; he remained three years, and was again successful. He returned to Ohio and purchased land he bought out the heirs of the 'old homestead," where he spent his youth, and where every scene was dear to him. He is a man of public spirit, and fills the position of one of the directors of the National Bank, of Shelby: he is also one of the managers of the Buckeye Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Shelby; he superintends quite extensive farming, and is one of the most successful in the county. He speaks his mind fully, and, while he is strong in his opinions, he is open to convictions. He was married to Miss Caroline Sipe in April, 1856. They had fourteen children, twelve of whom are living.

BRINER, JOHN, farmer: he was born in Perry Co., Penn., May 23, 1813; he spent his youth on a farm. His father, John Briner, hearing of Ohio, resolved to settle there, where land was cheap and where he might get each of his children a home; so, having made all necessary arrangements for the trip, he started in his wagon for his new home; he settled on the farm now owned by the widow of Henry Briner, in Jackson Township; this was in 1832; he died at an advanced age on the farm. The subject of this sketch remained at home until 1835, when he moved on the farm now occupied by him and built a log house near where the present homestead is new located ; he cleared most of the farm and built all the present comfortable buildings; he has been an active worker, a good manager, and as his children get married, he is enabled to give each of his sons 80 acres of land and his daughters 40. He was married to Miss Sarah Henry Dec. 25, 1834; they had twelve children, nine of whom are living, six of them being in Williams Co., Ohio. Mrs. Briner was born in Perry Co., Penn., Nov. 25, 1811 her father emigrated to Harrison Co., Ohio, and in 1833, moved to Jackson Township; he remained in Ohio for a number of years, but, being desirous of seeing the land of his birth, the home of his childhood, be resolved to take a trip East, and was on that ill-fated train which collided near the village of Thompsontown, Juniata Co., Penn., and where so many met a quick and certain death; after the collision, the wreck took fire, and it is supposed that he was wedged in between some timbers where he could not extricate himself and he, with many others, fell a victim to the flames; the doors of the cars were also locked, and this may have prevented the escape of some. Mrs. Briner had six sisters and five brothers, all living but one; the oldest is 70 years amt the youngest 50 years of age.

CAIRNS, JOSEPH, farmer ; P. O. Spring Mills; he was born in Mansfield in October, 1837. Sometime time after his father moved to Jackson, on the farm now occupied by his three sons. The subject of this notice has remained on the farm ever since. He moved to where he now resides in 1864; he takes an active interest in the affairs of the county and township ; politically, he is a Democrat, and is an influential member of his party. He has held several offices in the township, and, by advice of his friends, he allowed his name to go before the people for a prominent office, but his father being desirous of receiving the nomination for the same office, he withdrew his name. He was married to Miss Sarah Kuhn, of Plymouth Township, May, 1862; they have had ten children, seven of whom are living.

CAIRNS, JOHN G. farmer; P. O. Spring Mills; he was born in Mansfield Jan. 27, 1840. He spent his youth on a farm. He enlisted in Co. E, 32d O. V. I., July 27, 1861, for three years. The regiment to which he belonged was with the Army of the Tennessee; he participated in all the battles with his regiment, and, while in the siege of Vicksburg, he was with a party of men who were in the trenches in front of the rebel batteries, where, by order, they were compelled to keep up a constant firing; the guns becoming very dirty from constant use during the day, they would rebound at each discharge, and as they were so situated against the side of the ditch, they had no way by which they could protect themselves, but had to stand the rebound against their shoulders. He did the firing of two guns, while the other man did the loading. From this he received a very serious injury in his shoulder, from which be has never fully recovered. He was discharged at Chattanooga in September, 1864. After his return home, he went to farming. He resided about six years in Madison Township. He is a Democrat, and takes an active interest in the affairs of the party. He has held the office of Assessor for two terms. He was married to Helen M. Livensparger March 14, 1865; they have had eight children, five of whom are living.

CLARK, CALVIN, farmer; he was born in Washington Co., Penn., Aug. 23, 1802; his parents emigrated from Pennsylvania, with their family of six children, in the spring of 1815, and settled two miles south of Mansfield, where they took up 160 acres of land ; they remained there about three years, and then sold out and moved three miles north of Mansfield, where they purchased l60 acres; they remained there some seven years and then went to live with their son, Calvin. When Calvin was about 20 years of age, he left the farm, and he and one of his brothers went to brick-making; he worked at that for some two years, and then took a lease of 30 acres of land which is now embraced between First and Fourth streets, in the western part of Mansfield, and is now covered with residences: he leased this land in 1822 for the term of seven years, getting all he could raise on it during that time for clearing and fencing it; he built a log house, which is yet standing; it has since been weather-boarded and somewhat remodeled; when he first came to Mansfield, there was not a frame building in the village; after leaving the lease, he moved into Sharon Township, about one mile south of where Shelby now stands, where be cleared considerable land; he purchased where he now lives in 1829, and, two years later, moved on it, where he has since resided. His

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brothers and sisters are all dead, and he alone is left of a large family. Religiously, he is a Presbyterian; he is most agreeable and courteous in manners, and his character is unimpeachable; he enjoys the esteem and confidence of all who know him; he is a man of great mental strength for one who has been so active in the arduous work of pioneer farming and clearing away the forest; he can recollect dates of a few years ago as well as those of his early years; he is passing the evening of his life on his favorite spot, where, forty nine years ago, he settled. He was married to Miss Mary Fulton, of Richland, in October, 1824; they had seven children, five girls and two sons; his children are all married and living in Richland Co., except Mrs. Ritchie, who resides in Williams Co. His wife died in October, 1874.

CLARK, SAMUEL, farmer; he was born in Richland Co., Ohio, in October, 1825; he has spent his life upon a farm, and takes an active interest in his chosen vocation. He is a Presbyterian in religion, and a Republican in politics. He is a man of quiet demeanor, and exerts an influence in the councils of party. He was married to Polly Jane King, of Richland Co.; they had a family of ten children, seven of whom are living. He enjoys the respect of his neighbors, and never intrudes his political opinion upon those who differ with him in that respect. Socially, he is like his father, Calvin Clark; he has led a temperate life, and has been a hard worker. Shortly after he was married, he moved to where be now resides; he has his farm under excellent cultivation.

COOPER, DANIEL, pioneer farmer and stock-raiser; was born in Sharon (now Jackson) Township Oct. 19, 1834; he remained with his father until be was 22 years of age, receiving his education in the district schools. Mr. Cooper married Mine Sarah Briner, who was born about 1828, in Perry Co., Penn., and, as a result of their union, had thirteen children, eight of whom are living-Alvina, Henry, Mary, Franklin, Diana, Daniel, Jane and Burgetta. Mr. Cooper, with his family, moved to Williams Co., Ohio, about 1846, remaining there seven years, when they disposed of their farm and moved to Hillsdale Co., Mich., purchasing 240 acres of land; remaining in Michigan nearly four years, he became discouraged with sickness, and again disposed of his land and returned to his native county, where he still remains, one of the stanch men of old Jackson Township, where he has been elected Township Treasurer for twelve or thirteen consecutive years.

COOPER, WILLIAM A., fruit-grower; was born in Richland Co., in December, 1835; his father, Jacob Cooper, was born in Connecticut, in 1793, and moved to Southern Ohio about 1815; he remained there until about 1820, when be came to Sharon, now Jackson Township, and located on the farm now owned by William Kerr. He was married to Miss Lydia Oakley ; they had nine children, six of whom are living. His wife, who was born in 1800, died in 1866; he died in 1876, aged 83 years. Mr. Cooper died where he first settled. His son, William A., the subject of this notice, remained at home until he was about 20 years of age; he resided in Shelby about a year; in the fall of 1863, he moved to where he now resides; he gives his attention to fruit-growing. He was married to Miss Sarah Jane Swartz, July, 1859; they had seven children, five of whom are living; Mrs. Cooper died Feb. 16, 1877, aged about 35 years.

COOVER, ISAAC, farmer; he was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Oct. 1828, and spent his youth on his father's farm; he left his native State and came to Ohio in 1862, and lived near Ganges for some ten years; he then moved to Jackson Township, where he has since been living : he is a pleasant neighbor and an excellent farmer; he has the respect of all with whom he deals, as he is a plain, straightforward man. He was married to Mary Dickson, of Cumberland Co., Penn., 1853.

CRUM, ELIZABETH, widow of Isaac Crum, was born in Richland Co., Ohio, February, 1824, in Mifflin Township; her father, John Gates, emigrated to Ohio from New Jersey, about the year 1823, and settled in Richland Co., where be afterward lived ; he died in 1860. Isaac Crum was born in Franklin Township, in October, 1817, and spent his youth on his father's farm; in the fall of 1856, be was elect elected Clerk of the Court of Richland Co., and served three years; he was re-elected in 1859, and served a part of the second term, when he died of consumption, in March, 1861, in Mansfield, aged about 43 years. He was politically a Democrat. Isaac Crum and Elizabeth Gates were married in October, 1844 ; they had seven children, four of whom are living.

DRAKE, JOHN, farmer. He was born in Northumberland Co., Penn., in June, 1806; his mother came to Ohio in 1825, and remained about one year in Stark Co., and then removed to Wayne Co., where she remained about five years; she brought her family of four children with her-William, John, Elizabeth and Jane; two sons having died in Pennsylvania; Nathaniel Drake, her husband, was born, lived and died in Pennsylvania; Mrs. Drake's maiden name was Nancy Hoagland; she died in 1855, aged 67 years; William and Elizabeth are dead. While the family were in Wayne Co., John and William contracted to clear and fence fifty acres of land, and split 5,000 rails for an eighty-acre tract in Jackson Township ; this is the property now owned by the subject of this sketch, and on which he now , resides. In 1831, he, with his mother, came to this county and began the improvement of his land. He had the common experience of most of people who came to the frontier settlements. He has succeeded in making for himself and family a pleasant home. He is of English extraction. His forefathers came to America at a very early date. It is known that the family in England were very wealthy and influential, but on account of political troubles, some of them emigrated, and, unfortunately, the family history has not been handed down so as to keep up that connection which is necessary to establish a claim. There is a vast fortune in England for the Drake family, but at present it cannot be definitely settled. The family date as far back as 1560. Mr. Drake is a man of positive opinions and character, and not easily moved from a position until be is convinced that he is in error. He is a member of the Reformed Church; in politics, he is strongly Democratic. He was married to Miss Susannah Henry March 29, 1838, and as the result

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of their union they have ten children, all living-William Drake, the oldest child, is married to Miss Sidney Flora, and resides near Montpelier, Williams Co.; the second child, Elisabeth, is married to James Wareham, and resides in Jackson Township: the third Child; Sarah Jane, married Aaron Rambo, and resided in East Lynn, Vermilion Co., Ill.; the fourth child, Daniel, married Mary Jane Trist, and resides in Shelby, she was born in Sidney; the fifth child, James, married Miss Eva Roushand, and resides near Bridgewater, Williams Co.; the sixth child, Jeremiah, married Miss Roust, of Jackson Township, and resides near Bridgewater, Williams Co.; the seventh child, Mary Ellen, married George H. Smith, and resides in Newton Co., Ind.; Nancy H. married Jacob Rowe, and resides in De Kalb Co., near Butler, Ind.; Susannah is at home with her parents; Samuel, the tenth and last child, is also at home with his parents.

FINICLE, GEORGE, farmer; was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Aug. 4, 1818. When about 16 years of age, his father, Solomon Finicle, with his family of five children, came to Ohio, and settled in Sec. 24, northwest quarter, where he lived for a number of years; he then moved to Shelby; he returned to Jackson after remaining in Shelby for a few years. He died at his son George's. The subject of this notice left home about 1843, and moved to Crawford Co., Ohio, where he remained about one year, and then returned; he then purchased the farm and improved it, making all the present improvements. He was married to Miss Rebecca Marks March 10, 1842; they had eight children, six living; Mrs. Finicle died in July, 1856. He was again married, to Miss Minerva McIntire, Nov. 3, 1856; they had three children, two of whom are living. He is of Pennsylvania-German parentage, and is an excellent farmer and respected citizen.

GUMP, JOSIAH, farmer and stock-raiser; he was born in Bedford Co., Penn., Nov. 29, 1824. His father, Benjamin Gump, hearing of Ohio and of its fertile lands, resolved to leave his native hills and bring his family to the frontier settlements and hew out for himself and family a home; he entered an 80-acre tract, and set to work to clear away the timber on which to build his new home; he hewed the logs, instead of leaving them round, as was customary in those early days ; he first built the center, and some years after added additions to each end; the west addition was occupied as carpenter and cabinet-maker shop for some years; the main part of this building, now occupied by Josiah Gump, is perhaps one of the oldest in Jackson Township, having been built fifty-three years; the trees which surround this building were planted by the elder Gump, and now they spread their branches far and wide; there is a large and beautiful pear-tree standing at the west end of the dwelling which the old gentleman raised from the seed, and of which he enjoyed the fruit for many seasons; during the last years of his life, he was much afflicted with rheumatism; he spent an active life, worked hard, and was "gathered home" in 1870, aged 83 ; his wife, whose maiden name was Esther Smith, died some time previous ; three children survive them-Josiah and two sisters. Josiah has spent his youth on the farm; he is a plain, unassuming man, honest and industrious. He was married to Matilda Cline in 1843 ; they had seven children ; she died in 1864. He was again married, to Miss Eve Bushey, of Shelby, Dec. 25, 1866; they have two children.

HARTMAN, GEORGE. This pioneer was horn in Adams Co., Penn., in August, 1801 ; he is of Pennsylvania-German parentage, and still retains their characteristics; was bound out to learn the weaving trade at 16 years of age; worked at that for some years ; his parents died when he was young, and he was therefore thrown out upon the world early in life, which perhaps gave him much of that energy which he displayed in late years, as he has been one of the successful farmers. He emigrated to Ohio in 1828, and remained one year in Stark Co.; he then came to Richland Co., and entered an 80 acre tract of land in Sec. 27; built his first cabin about twenty rods west of his present house, in which he lived some eight or ten years, and then built the present dwelling; like most of the early settlers, he was poor, and was compelled to clear his land by his own industry; he was more fortunate, however, than some of his neighbors who came some years after as he brought a wagon with him, one of the first in the neighborhood ; was called upon frequently to loan his wagon to his less favored neighbors; he frequently would, when called upon; take his own team and go to market, not charging a cent for his services. Some years since; his son prevailed upon him to make his home with him, where he could be better taken care of; he remained several years, but the love of his old home still clung strongly to him, and he returned to his favorite spot which he first selected as his abode. He has a retentive memory, and has the full use of his mental faculties; is pleasant in his manner, and bas the esteem of the community. He was married to Miss Catherine Stallsmith, of Adams Co., Penn., March 1, 1827; they had one child.

HARTMAN, JOHN F., farmer; P. O. Shelly; he is the only child of George and Catherine Hartman; he was born March 8, 1830, in Richland Co.; he spent his youth on the old homestead : he is one of the successful and solid men of the township ; he is an excellent farmer (his farm contains 434 acres); he is well informed upon the general topics of the day, and taken an interest in the affairs of the township and county, and is an influential citizen. Politically, he is a Democrat. He was married to Miss Louisa Kuhn in March, 1853; they have six children, three sons and three daughters; after he was married, he lived for some years on the old home stead; he then moved to where he now resided, about 1860; he lived some years in the old house, and, in 1870, he built his beautiful and comfortable brick dwelling, which is perhaps the largest brick dwelling in the township.

HAYS, ESTHER C., MRS., widow of Almond Hays: she emigrated from Fairfield Co., Conn., in 1821; she and her husband came by wagon the entire distance; then started on the 18th day of June, and arrived on the 18th day of July; they settled on the farm where she now resides, about three miles southeast from the town of Shelby; they built the first cabin on the north part of the land, where the orchard is now located; the county was sparsely settled, there being but eighteen voters to six miles square; there was no clearing or opening on the farm at the time; it was in strong contrast

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to the home she left in Connecticut; wolves howled around the cabin, and the red man frequently presented himself for Johnny cake. Mr. haves built a blacksmith-shop by driving four stakes in the ground, and covering it with elm bark, which remnined some six months, when he built one of a more substantial character; some years after he built another strop on the site of the present shop where his son now works ; it was burnt down some years after; when they first moved into their cabin, they had no door for three weeks ; they had no furniture, and when they wanted to warm themselves, they sat down on the end of the puncheons in front of the log fire. Mr. Hayes died April 15, 1856, aged 56 years; Mrs. Hayes was born Oct. 30, 1798, in Fairfield Co., Conn., and was married to Almond Hayes Oct. 9, 1820; they had six children, five boys and one girl; four boys are still living ; she is a woman of clear intellect, and had she not been stricken with paralysis some years ago, she would be active, and could relate her trials much more freely; she is spending her days with her son, Lewis C. Hayes, who is a blacksmith and in connection carries on wagon-making of all kinds ; he was born in May, 1839 and has always lived in the vicinity. He was married to Miss Malinda Sanders in 1866; they have two children.

HESS, REUBEN, farmer; P. O. Shelby; was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, in January, 1841 ; his father was a minister of the Reformed Church, and came from Bucks Co., Penn., to Columbiana Co., where he remained some time and then removed to Trumbull Co., where he remained several years; he then went to Delaware, Delaware Co., Ohio, and preached some ten years in Delaware and vicinity; he then removed to Galion, Ohio, and preached one year; he then removed to Larue, Marion Co., where he preached one year, and then came to the charge in Shelby, where he preached two years ; he purchased the southeast quarter of Sec. 28, Jackson Township, where he lived some five years ; he moved to Madison ; he also, preached several years in Pennsylvania; he died in August, 1875; he spent an active life ; he was a man of considerable force. The subject of this notice, Reuben Hess, is one of Jackson's successful farmers; he has acquired considerable land, owning 295 acres in one tract; he is a careful farmer. He was married to Miss Margaret Leppo Nov. 20, 1862; they have a family of interesting children. He moved to Springfield Township, where he remained one year, and then removed to where he now resides on the southwest quarter of Sec. 26.

HINES, LEWIS, farmer; he was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, May 4, 1831. His father, Frederic Hines, emigrated to America in 1840, and remnined three years, when he returned and brought his family; he settled in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; about the year 1850, he and his son Lewis came to Ohio and remained one summer and returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained until 1861, when he emigrated with his family and settled two miles and a half east of Shelby, where he and his wife still reside; he is a careful reader, has a good memory and takes an active interest in the politics of his adopted country; he has the respect and esteem of all his neighbors. The subject of this notice remnined in Pennsylvania until 1866, when he came to Ohio and located in Jackson Township, where he still resides; he, like his father, takes an active interest in the affairs of the country as well as the locality in which he lives. He is an ardent Democrat, but does not let his political preferences blind his reason. He was married, Nov. 20, 1854, to Margaret Bleacher, of Pennsylvania; they have five children, all of whom are living.

HOFFMAN, DANIEL, pioneer farmer; P. O, Shelby; he was born in York Co., Penn., March 26, 1798; about seven years after, his father, Frederic Hoffman, moved to Adams Co., Penn., and settled ten miles north of Gettysburg, where the subject of this notice remained until the fall of 1831, when he emigrated to Ohio and remained over winter two miles south of Mansfield; in the spring of 1832, he came to settle the southeast 80 acres of Sec. 23, which he had entered the fall previous there had been no work done on the land before this time; he built his first log house a few rods west of where his present house now stands; it is still standing; he is the oldest man living in the township except one; when he came to Ohio, be had a family of three children. He was married to Miss Sarah Stallsmith, of Adams Co., Penn., Aug. 18, 1822; they had eight children, six of whom are living. Mr. Hoffman still retains his mental faculties and remembers things which happened recently as well as those of an earlier date. Politically, he is a Democrat, from which he never has swerved.

HOFFMAN, J. W., farmer; P. O. Shelby: was born in Adams Co., Penn., Dec. 8, 1829 ; his parents came to Ohio in 1831, so that he is now an early settler, although he is a comparatively young man. He helped his father to clear up the farm, and, about the age of 21 years, he commenced farming for his father. He farmed some five years, and then removed to Sharon Township, where he remained two years and then moved on the farm known as the Rogers' farm. He then moved to where he now resides, which is a portion of the northwest quarter of Sec. 26. Some time after his first purchase, he added 11 acres, and, in August 1879, he purchased a tract of 25 acres in Sec. 22. Mr. Hoffman is what might be called a self-made man. He started in the world without a dollar, and, by industry and economy, he has been successful. He has aided his children in life; he is considered an excellent farmer. He has been entrusted with several offices in the township ; he is a member of the Reformed Church, and an Elder in that body. He was married to Miss Ellen Kuhn, of Plymouth, and as a result of their union they have had a family of eight children, six of whom are living-four daughters and two sons.

HOLTZ, GEORGE, farmer; P. O. Shelby; he was born in Perry Co., Penn., in April, 1830; his father emigrated to Ohio and settled in Jackson when George was a child. He spent his young days at home, and when he wsa but s small boy he was put to work, and helped clear up his father's farm. He was married to Miss Margaret Ott, in January, 1849, who was born in Germany in October, 1830. Her father emigrated to Ohio when she was a child, and settled in Jackson ; they had five children, four of whom are living and married, and reside in Jackson. Benjamin Adams Lowe, son-in-law of George Holtz, was born in

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Liverpool, England, Feb. 2, 1852. When he was 17 years of age, he emigrated to America. He went West to Miami Co., Kan.; he traveled considerably through Kansas, Texas and Indian Territory ; he then returned to England to see his parents and returned to the United States some few months after. He is a man of general knowledge, and is a close observer. He was married to Miss Mary Ann Holtz Feb. l9, 1878.

HORNBERGER, CATHARINE, MRS., widow of Benjamin Hornberger; was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., August, 1819; her father, Jacob Snyder, emigrated from Pennsylvania with his family of six children and settled in Stark Co., near Massillon, about 1829. Mrs. Hornberger remained at home until September, 1842, when she was married. Some five years after, her husband came to Richland Co. and purchased 80 acres in the northwest quarter of Sec. 27, where Mrs. Hornberger now resides. He died September, 1853, aged about 48 years. He was born in Franklin Co., Penn.; they had five children, three of whom are living. The children being small at the death of her husband, she was compelled to take the management of the farm and provide for the wants of her family, for which she deserves special credit. She is of Pennsylvania-German parentage. Her oldest son, Hiram, is married to Margaret Cox, and is engaged in railroading at Galion. Samuel, her next son, is married to Sarah May, and resides on the farm. Her daughter Sarah is married to Simon Shatzer, and resides near her. The two deceased were Rebecca and Catherine, aged 14 and 29 years respectively.

HUMMEL, J. M., farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Dauphin Co., Penn.., is March, 1818; he spent his youth on a farm ; when 18 years of age, he commenced the trade of saddlery with his brother in Hummelstown, Penn., and continued to follow that trade twenty-five years; desirous of obtaining a farm, he sold his property and emigrated, in 1864, with his family, to Ohio, where he purchased a tract of 80 acres in Madison Township, about two miles north of Mansfield ; he remained there about eight years, and sold his farm and purchased the southwest quarter of Sec. 12, where he now resides ; he came of Pennsylvania-German parentage; he is an excellent farmer, a pleasant neighbor, and has the respect of the community. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Hertzel in December, 1843; they had eight children, five of whom are living.

ILER, JOHN, former; P. O. Shelby; was born in Richland Co. Feb. 26, 1842; when he was about; months old, his father died and left a family of four small children to be supported by the mother; being poor, she was compelled to put her children out among strangers; she found a pleasant home for them with John F. Rice, the " old soldier;" of whom a full notice will be found elsewhere in this book; his mother died when the subject of this notice was about 6 years old, so he was early deprived of the fostering care of a mother; he remained at his adopted home until the fall of 1862, when he enlisted in Co. C, 20th O. V. I., for nine months; after he returned home, he resumed forming. He is an ardent Democrat, and takes an active interest in the affairs of the community. He was married to Miss Mary Sheets, of Richland Co.; they have seven children.

KERR, WILLIAM, farmer; he was born in Washington, Penn., Nov. 7, 1810; his father, James Kerr, came to Ohio about 1810, and emoted 160 acres of land in Sec. 1, Jackson Township; he then returned to Pennsylvania and at different times came to Ohio, entering some 800 acres; in the year 1820, he, with his family, consisting of himself, wife and four children, came to Ohio and settled where T. C. Dunlap now lives, some four miles east of where Shelby now stands; he cleared up the farm; in 1830, he built a grist-mill on Richland Run, probably the first water-mill in the limits of Jackson Township; it stood several years, and did quite a business ; the first miller was Mr. Urie, who milled for several years, and was followed by William Kerr, the subject of this notice; he was followed by Mr. Sellers; the mill stood until 1853, when Mr. Kerr took some of the timber and put it into his barn which he was then building; the mill-race is still to be seen. James Kerr died in May, 1839; his wife survived him for a number of years and died aged over 80 years. William Kerr has resided near where he now lives ever since he has been in Ohio; he has always been engaged on the farm except the time he was occupied as miller. He was married to Nancy N. Crabbs in June,1849; they had five children, four of whom are living; his wife died in 1862, and he was again married to Sarah Seaton in 1864; they have three children.

KIRKPATRICK, JEREMIAH, farmer ; P. O. Shelby ; he was born in Perry Co., Penn., in June, 1821 ; his father, Joseph Kirkpatrick, with his wife and family of six children, emigrated to Ohio in the fall of 1831, and remained over winter in Mansfield : he moved north to Jackson and entered an 80-acre tract of land in Sec. 22 ; he died in 1844 ; his wife survived him many years, dying in January, 1877, aged about 85 years. The subject of this notice remained with his parents, helping to clear up the farm and do such work as is usual in a new country ; he received his education in the district schools of the county ; he is a man of general information, and has the confidence and esteem of his neighbors ; he is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church ; he joined that denomination at an early age, and has very materially aided in building up that body in the community ; he is a careful farmer, and his farm bears the marks of good management. He was married to Miss Catherine Flora Nov. 7, 1844; they had eleven children, nine of whom are living.

KIRKPATRICK, AMOS, farmer: P. O. Shelby; was born Aug. 3, 1850, in Jackson Township; he is a son of Jeremiah and Catherine Kirkpatrick; he remained with his parents until he arrived at the age of manhood; he worked at home and in the community until he was married to Miss Christiana Neal, April 23, 1874; they have three children-Elmer Luther, Joseph Lorenzo and Archie Melvin. Mrs. Kirkpatrick was born in Jackson Township March 20, 1852; she has always remained in the vicinity of where she was born ; she received her educational training in the common school.

KUHN, MARY, MRS., widow of Jacob Kuhn, was born in Franklin Co., Penn., March, 1827 ; her father, George Shafer, emigrated to Ohio in 1830, and settled

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in Springfield Township, where be remained three years; he then purchased the farm on which his daughter, Mrs. Kuhn, now resides; he died in the fall of 1864; his wife, the mother of Mrs. Kuhn, whose maiden name was Mary Deitrich, survived him until June; 1866. Jacob Kuhn and Mary Shafer were married in November, 1851 ; as a result of their marriage they had seven children, six of whom are living. Mr. Kuhn died Aug. 25, 1876 ; be was born in Franklin Co., Penn., and emigrated to Ohio, in 1847; he was a man of great force of character; he took an active interest in the Reformed Church, to which he was devotedly attached ; he was among the first organizers of the church at Shelby, and was a leader in that body; he was a pillar of the church, and by his death the church lost one of its most active and influential members.

KING, MARY, MRS., P. O. Shelby.

LANDIS, JOHN M., farmer and stock-raiser, and also agent for Halliday's Standard Wind-mill, and also for farming implements generally; he was born in this county in November, 1837 ; his father emigrated to Ohio from Lancaster Co., Penn.., about 1836, and settled in Richland Co.; he purchased the farm now owned by his son; he lived there during his lifetime, and died in March, 1874, aged about 63 years. The subject of this sketch first purchased a tract of land north of where he now lives, and in 1870, the tract on which he now resides ; he improved the farm, remodeling the buildings, and has a very comfortable and pleasant home. He is one of those men whom nature has endowed with a natural mechanical genius; he can lay out a building and erect it without making a mistake although he never learned any trade; this, perhaps, accounts for his love of machinery, which he can handle with ease, seeing at a glance how to work it to the best advantage; he has been selling machinery for eight years, and is widely and favorably known ; he is a pleasant man with whom to do business, as he makes it a matter of principle, and states what he believes and knows to be true ; he is favorably known. He was married to Miss Mary Ann Finicle in 1859; they have four sons, all living.

LANDIS, ISAAC M., farmer and stock-raiser; he was born in this county Oct. 9, 1842 ; at the age of 19 years, he enlisted in Company C. 20th O. V. I., and served for about one year, passing through the battles of Port Gibson, Jackson, Champion Hill and Vicksburg; after he returned home, he resumed farming; he farmed for two years, and then went into the hardware business in New London for three years; he then sold out and went into the saw-mill business, working in Wyandot for four years; thence to Seneca Co., where he lived two years ; he sold out and removed to where he now lives in April, 1875; he had previously purchased the farm. He was married to Miss Ellen Finicle, of Richland Co., Dec. 22, 1864; they have two children-Carrie Ellen sad Zuleika Olive.

LASER, C. C., Justice of the Peace, Infirmary Director and farmer; he was born in this county April 28, 1832; his father, John Laser, emigrated from Perry Co., Penn., is the year 1825, and settled in Cass Township. Mr. Laser was one of the Trustees of Plymouth Township, and when the township was about being divided, the name of Cass was proposed by Mr. Laser, after the illustrious statesman of that name, and of whom Mr. Laser was an ardent admirer ; the name was adopted. He died in Cass Township in 1857 ; his wife died in the fall of 1877. Mr. C. C. Laser was elected Justice of the Peace in 1869, which office he has since held; he was elected Infirmary Director in the fall of 1876, and re-elected in the fall of 1879. He is of German extraction ; his great-grandfather emigrated from Germany and located in Northampton Co., Penn., and on the breaking-out of the Revolutionary war, he enlisted, and was never heard of afterward leaving his wife and son, Christian Laser, grandfather of C. C. Laser, who died in Cass Township about the year 1846. Mr. Laser makes a very efficient officer; he is possessed of good judgment, and is regarded as a very judicious and competent man. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is the councils of his party exerts a large influence. He was married to Miss Kezia Feeler Dec. 19, 1852; they have nine children, six boys and three girls.

MILLER, ISAAC H., farmer; be was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., May 22, 1816; he spent his youth on the farm; at 19 years of age, he commenced to teach school, which he followed five winters, working on the farm during the summer; in the spring of 1839, he, with his wife, emigrated to Ohio and spent some four years near Ganges ; in 1842, be bought 40 acres, which is now the south part of his farm, and moved on it the following year; there was a cabin on the land when he purchased; he lived there six years, and then purchased the northern half of the 80 acres, and moved into the cabin which stood where his present dwelling stands (this was in 1849); this is situated about one and a quarter miles east of Shelby ; he cleared up most of his farm ; he is of Pennsylvania-German parentage, and has the characteristics of that people. By his industry and economy, he has made for himself and family a pleasant home. He is a close reader, and a man of general information. In politics, he is a Republican, and adheres closely to his party. He is pleasant in his home, hospitable and genial. He was married to Miss Catherine Echternach Dec. 25, 1838, who was born is the year 1818 ; her parents emigrated to America about the year 1832, and settled in Lancaster, Penn., where her father died; her mother survived him a number of years, dying at her daughter's, Mrs. Miller. They have had eleven children, seven of whom are living - four girls and three boys.

MILLER, BENJAMIN E., farmer ; he was born near Ganges Oct. 24, 1839. He was married to Miss S. J. Finicle in May, 1882; they have seven children, all living; at about the age of 22, he moved near where Isaac Landis now lives, and some six months after, he moved on the J. M. Landis farm, where he remained one year, when he went to where he now lives, in Jackson Township. He is a man of general intelligence, and, like his father, Isaac H. Miller, is a Republican in politics, and adheres strictly to the views of his party. He is a genial gentlemen, and has the entire respect of his neighbors.

MORTHLAND, ELIAS W., farmer, was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, in December, 1847; his father, Abraham Morthland, came from Pennsylvania, and settled

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in Crawford Co., Ohio; he was a minister for many years, and left a record of which his children may well be proud; he died June 22, 1876, aged about 85 ; his wife still survives him. Elias was married to Miss Rachel Wells March 5, 1867; they had two children. Mr. Morthland is a man of good social qualities, and has the confidence of his neighbors and acquaintances.

MORTHLAND, J. D., was born July 25, 1839, in Polk Township, Crawford Co.; he remained with his father until September, 1853, receiving his education at the district schools. He married Miss Elizabeth H. Copeland, Feb. 7, 1860. Mr. Morthland moved from Crawford to Richland Co. in September, 1853, where he has remained up to the present time, engaging in the boot and shoe business for a short time; becoming tired of the close, confining life, he disposed of his business and removed with his wife to a more congenial life on a farm. Abraham Morthland, his father, was born near Carlisle, Cumberland Co., Penn., where he followed teaming until, he was 18 years of age, when he emigrated to Columbiana Co., Ohio, where he married Miss Susan Miller, and by their union had six children - four of whom are living-Hannah, John, Joseph D. and Susan Lucinda; he remained in Columbiana Co. about six years, where he continued teaming for two years, at the end of which time he disposed of his team; doing any work he could and during the remainder of his stay in Columbiana Co.; he then moved to Crawford Co., Ohio, purchasing 80 acres of land commonly termed the Abraham Morthland homestead -where he remained until September, 1853, and from there came to Richland Co.; entering the ministry about the year 1839, he was always considered one of the leaders in the Baptist Church. His life has been worthy the imitation of children, relatives and friends. J. D.. the subject of this sketch, is a man of more than ordinary ability, conscientious, energetic, pleasant and honorable.

MYERS, J. D., farmer; P. O. Shelby; was born in Stark Co., Ohio, April 24, 1828. When he was 6 months old, his father, Adam Myers, with his wife and seven children, came to Richland Co., and settled in Sharon, now Jackson Township, where the subject of this notice now resides; at that time, there was not an improvement between Spring Mills and where Gen. Wilson lived, which is now ins the corporate limits of Shelby. The subject of this notice, so far as can be found, is now the second earliest living settler in what is now the territory of Jackson. The elder Myers built his log cabin on Sec. 27, about a rod south of the present dwelling ; this cabin stood a number of years, and in its place was erected a more commodious dwelling in the shape of a hewed-log house, which was located about one rod north of the cabin, and on the site of the substantial and fine dwelling which Mr. Myers erected in 1875. His father was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., and his mother, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Howard, was born in Franklin Co., Penn.; they were married in Pennsylvania, and emigrated to Stark Co., Ohio, in 1824, and then came to this county in 1829. Mr. Myers, Sr., died in December, 1855, aged about 75 years; his wife died in April, 1859, aged 72 years. Mr. Myers is an excellent farmer, and fully understands the care of land; is a good citizen. He is a member of the Lutheran Church ; politically, he is a Democrat. He is also a self-made man, as he commenced life without a dollar, and worked until he was 25 years of age for his father, considering it his duty, and feels that he has been amply repaid for all he has done for his parents, as he has been blessed with success in his efforts. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Feighner in September, 1853; they have had six children, four of whom are living-Sarah C., married to William Kirkpatrick, and resides in Shelby ; Adam F., is an artist; William H. and Malissa, are at home.

NILES, ANN, MRS., pioneer, and widow of Eli Niles, whose maiden name was Fulton; was born near Bath, in the State of New York, Oct. 11, 1809. When she was about 14 years of age, her parents came from Ontario Co., N. Y., with a family of eight children, to Mansfield, where they remained over winter; in the spring they moved to Sharon Township, on land of Judge Gamble, where they resided about ten years, and then removed to Seneca Co., Ohio, when Mr. Fulton purchased two quarter-sections of land, on which they remained during his life. The subject of this notice was married to John Gelaspie in April, 1836, in Seneca Co.; they had one child, George, who was born in October, 1838 ; he met with an accident which resulted in death, by the explosion of a cannon at a jollification over the capture of Vicksburg, in Shelby, July 8, 1863; he died Aug. 1, 1863. Mr. Gelaspie died in April, 1839. November, 1848, she was married to Eli Niles ; they had no ohildrea; he died in May, 1875. Mrs. Niles is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, which she joined when 23 years of age.

PICKING, J. W., carpenter, builder and farmer; P. O. Shelby ; was born in Franklin Co., Penn., in April, 1835; his father, Henry Picking, with his family of six children, emigrated to Ohio in 1845 (three having previously come out), and purchased 40 acres of the southwest quarter of Sec. 10. Mrs. Picking died in the spring of 1873. Mr. Picking survived his wife until May, 1879; he was some 81 years old. The subject of this notice, about the age of 18 years, commenced the trade of carpenter with Patrick Barnes, which he has since followed in connection with his farm. He is a quiet citizen and a good neighbor. He was married to Miss Mary Cutler in February, 1857; they have five children. He moved to where he now resides in 1874.

ROBERTS, JESSE, pioneer farmer; P. O. Shelby; was born in Beaver Co., Penn., in July, 1806; his father, John Roberts, came from Virginia to Pennsylvania and settled near what is now the village of Frankfort, Beaver Co., at an early date in the history of that country; he died in 1876, aged about 96 yeard. His mother, whose maiden name was Ruth Dungan, died some years before. His grandfather served under Gen. Washington during the Revolutionary war. The subject of this notice remained in Pennsylvania until the year 1833, when he emigrated to Ohio and settled in Sharon, now Jackson, Township, about two miles southeast of Shelby, or which at that time was known as Gamble's Mills. He built a log house on the ground on which his present dwelling is now situated he had

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the usual experience of early settlers. He takes an interest in the history of his adopted county ; he is hospitable and genial in his manners. He was married to Miss Catharine Feighaer is March, 1850 ; they had five children, two of whom are living. Mrs. Roberts was born in Franklin Co., Penn., in December, 1820; her father, Jones Feighaer, came to Richland Co. in 1827; he died in 1860.

ROUSH, SAMUEL, farmer and stock-raiser; he was born in Berks Co., Penn., Jan. 1, 1806; his father, Godfrey Roush, emigrated to Perry Co., Penn.., when the territory was included in Cumberland Co. He settled in the western part of the county. On the breaking-out of the war of 1812, he volunteered and marched from Carlisle, Penn., to Canada, when he was in the assault on Fort Mack and several other minor engagements. He remained in the army about one year, and returned home at the close of the war. He cleared up his land and remained is Perry Co. until 1834, when he, with his family, emigrated to Ohio and settled about one mile south of Shelby on the farm now owned by William Wareham, when he and his wife lived and died. The subject of this sketch was hired out until he was 20 years of age, his father using his wages. About the age of 20, he went to learn the trade of cooper, at which he served one year for nothing. After he worked one year at the trade, he then did anything by which he could make some money. He knew full well the value of money, and he saved all the money he made, except what would buy his clothing, so when he found himself able he purchased the 160 acres of land where he now lives. The primitive forest covered the entire tract, but, nothing daunted, he built a one story log house near his present dwelling and commenced the arduous task of clearing away the timber. Some years later, he built another log house of two stories, in which he lived until he built his present brick residence. He belongs to that honest, hard working class of Pennsylvania Germans. He takes just pride in relating his early trials. He was married to Miss Margaret Laser, of this county, in March, 1834 ; they had twelve children, nine of whom are living his wife died in January, 1863.

SELLERS, JOHN E., farmer and stock-raiser; he was born is Franklin Co., Penn., Dec. 3, 1845, and spent his young days in the village of St. Thomas, attending school until about the age of 16, when he enlisted is Co, H, 2d Penn. V. I, for three months; after coming home, he went to learn the trade of cabinet-making, at which he worked for some time; but, as the excitement of war was running high, he quit the trade and, in August, 1862, he again enlisted in Co. H, 126th Penn. V. I., for nine months; he participated in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville; he was discharged, with his regi ment, May 25, 1863; he returned home and remain till January, 1864, when he the third time enlisted in the 20th Penn. V. C. for three years, and served in the Shenandoah Valley ; participated in the battles of the memorable time, closing with the battle of South Side Railroad, where he was wounded in the right ear and side of the neck; the wound was in a dangerous place, and perhaps an eighth of an inch closer would have taken his life; he was taken is the hospital at Washington, where he remained some time, and was transferred to Philadelphia, Penn., where he was discharged in June, 1865 ; he then returned to Franklin Co., Penn., where he resided a short time and emigrated to this county; he worked at his trade in Shelby until the spring of 1869; he then removed to where he now resides, in Jackson Township, where he is engaged at farming. He is s man of positive convictions, and dose not fear to speak his sentiments fully, but always with respect to those with whom he comes in contact. He is as ardent Democrat; to on agreeable and social gentleman, and exerts an influence in his neighborhood ; he is fond of reading, and is gathering a library of the standard books of the day. He was married to Miss Susannah Laser in November, 1868; they have three children.

SHADE, JEREMIAH, farmer, was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Dec. 9, 1844; he spent his youth with his parents; he worked at the carpenter trade for some time; he commenced farming in 1868. He was married to Miss Rebecca Hull April 12, 1866; they have two children - Minnie Adie, born Jan. 28, 1868, and E. Wilber, Maroh 14, 1875. Mr. Shade is regarded as an excellent farmer. Mrs. Shade was born in Jackson , Township April 11, 1847, on the farm owned by Andraw Snyder. Her father, John Hull, came from Adams Co., Penn., in the spring of 1842, and settled in the southwestern part of Jackson; he died Sept. 15, 1865. His wife, whose maiden name was Stock, survived him until April 5, 1875. Jacob Shade, father of Jeremiah, was born in Perry Co., Penn.: he emigrated to Ohio is 1855. Mrs. Shade, whose maiden name was Mary Ann Messenger, was also born in Perry Co., Penn.: they had eleven ohildnn, eight of whom are living; they have retired from active farming and reside in Shelby.

SHELDON, MARIA, MRS. widow of Alvah Sheldon; she was born in Berkshire Co., Mass., Oct. 6, 1801; her maiden name was Cotton; she emigrated, with her uncle, to Penfield, N. Y., near Rochester, when she was about 23 years of age. She was married to Mr. Sheldon in September, 1825, and remained near Rochester some twelve years ;they then moved to the town of Royalton, Niagara Co., where they remained nineteen years ; they then emigrated to New Philadelphia, Ohio, where they lived three years; thence to Richland Co. in the fall of 1857; when she has since resided. Mr. Sheldon was born in Vermont Aug. l7, 1799; he died in Richland Co. in September, 1858. Mrs. Sheldon is a lady who stands well in the community ; she is the mother of eleven children, seven of whom an living-four boys and three girls ; six of them live in Richland Co. and one lives in Greene Co., N. Y. Her daughter, Mrs. Mary P. Porter, was born in September, 1839, in Niagara Co., N. Y.; she was married to John Porter in November, 1865. Mr. Porter died in October, 1866, leaving one son.

SHERRICH, THOMAS, farmer; he was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Jan. 18, 1842; when he was about 4 years old his parents left Wayne Co. and settled in Jackson Township ; some three years after his father died, and left his mother to take care of the family and pay some debts which was against the farm; and by economy and industry the farm was saved and the

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debts all paid; the subject of this sketch worked upon the farm until the fall of 1861, when he enlisted in Co. H, 64th O. V. I. for the term of three years ; Capt. Lord commanded the company. They went into camp at Mansfield, and remained about six weeks ; they then went to Louisville, Ky., and joined the army of the Cumberland, and he was in most of the engagements in which his regiment participated; the regiment belonged to the 4th Army Corps, Third Division ; he was discharged at Cincinnati in February, 1864, having served three years and four months. He is an excellent farmer and an honorable and respected citizen. He was married to Miss Catherine A. Briner January, 1867 ; they had two interesting girls.

SNYDER, JOHN, farmer; he was born in Richland Co., December, 1838 ; he spent his youth in Ohio until the year 1854, when his parents went to Adair Co., Mo., where they lived and died ; he remained in Missouri, working at the carpenter trade, until the breaking-out of the war, when he enlisted in the 5th Mo. V. I., and served some time; he then joined the cavalry, and then went into a battery of artillery, and was mustered into the Confederate service in Memphis, Tenn., in 1862, and wsa in several engagements in Missouri, including Pea Ridge, Lexington and Corinth, Miss.; he was taken prisoner at Champion Hill, Miss. ; he was taken to Young's Point, thence to Camp Morton at Indianapolis, thence to Ft. Delaware, thence to Point Lookout, where he was paroled ; he then struck north to York, Penn., where he worked at his trade on the N. C. R. R, for some time, and then returned to Richland Co., Ohio., his former home, where he worked at his trade until December, 1867; he has since been farming. He is a man of considerable originality; he is quiet in his manner, and does not interfere with the opinions of others ; he was married to Miss Lydia A. Laser, of Richland Co., December, 1867; they had four children as the result of their union, three living; Mrs. Snyder, was born in Jackson Township, in April, 1840.

STOVER, JOHN, pioneer farmer; P. O. Shelby; he was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., in May, 1823, His father, John Stover, emigrated to Richland Co. with his family of six children in 1835, and settled about two miles and a half southeast of Shelby, near what is now known as Taylortown, where be purchased the farm which his son now owns; he died in January, 1852. The subject of this notice resides on the old homestead, where his father first settled ; he never received any education, but by his natural ability he has acquired considerable property, and he is looked upon by his neighbors as an honest and reliable man; his ancestors were Pennsylvania Germans, and he has inherited their characteristics, that of honesty and industry; he is a careful farmer. He was married to Miss Leah Landis in February, 1853; three of their children are now living.

VINSON, J. W., farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Shelby; was born in Knox Co. June 21, 1838; he passed his youth on a farm; at the age of 21, he went to Dayton, where he remained a short time ; he then went to Plymouth, Ohio, where he learned the trade of marble-cutting; he then went to Mount Hilliard, Knox Co., where he remained one year; then went to Shelby and engaged in marble-cutting, under the firm name of Hersheiser & Vinson, but the business not being profitable, the firm failed, and left considerable debts unpaid ; after the failure, he moved to Jackson Township, on the farm which is known as the Lantz farm, where he remained five years; he was still struggling with poverty, and he resolved to make another effort in the marble business; he sold work for a party in Mansfield for a short time, and saved enough money to buy a small stock; he brought it home, and succeeded in selling it, soon thereby enabling him to purchase more material ; his shop was located near where he now resides ; this was about the fall of 1863; he followed the trade in Jackson about seven years ; he sold work for different parties for about six years ; his health failing him, he went to farming; he is a careful and successful farmer; he has a very pleasant home, and built one of the most comfortable and substantial dwellings in the township. Politically, he is a Democrat, and takes an active interest in his party. He was married to Miss Catharine Lantz is May, 1858; they had one child-Annie S. C., who is married to George Hartman; his wife died in the spring of 1863. He was again married to Mrs. Catharine Laser; they have one child-Curtis E. Mr. Vinson has, by dint of industry, succeeded in making himself a competence.