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JOHN M. ANDERSON, In this volume may be found biographies of many influential citizens who have plodded up the steeps of honor and prosperity with remarkable energy and success. The life of Mr. Anderson furnishes a good example of this kind. He is now the owner of a good farm in Tuscarawas Township, and thereon is devoting his energies to agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. Progressive in every way, he is known in this section as one of the well-to-do and prominent farmers.
A native of this county, our subject was born November 6, 1842, a son of Samuel and Sarah J. (McDowell) Anderson. The father, who also was born in this county, was a son of David M. Anderson, who was one of the very earliest settlers in this State. The paternal grandfather was one of a family of four children, as follows: Mary E., who married L G. Dague; David M., John M. and Samantha J. Samuel, the father, was a shrewd and capable business man and was frequently selected to fill some public position, such as that of Township Trustee, the duties of which were faithfully and conscientiously discharged. In all the country there was no more ardent and consistent Republican, and no man of better impulses and stricter integrity than he. He was one of the prominent members of the United Presbyterian Church at Dalton, in which denomination he served as Elder. His death, which occurred June 17, 1887, was the result of heart disease, His widow survived him for some years and departed this life February 6, 1892.
John M. Anderson of this sketch has always resided in this county and during the early days did his full share of pioneer work in assisting his father to redeem this farm from what was then a wilderness. Like other farmer lads, he was given a fair education in the district schools, and being an apt pupil and desirous of gaining a good knowledge of books, he made the best of his opportunities and is to-day one of the well-educated men of this county.
In 1864, he became a member of the Guard Company, which was organized at Dalton for the defense of the State, and later was seat to Washington, D. C., where, with his comrades, he assisted in guarding Ft. Ethan Allen, where he remained for some three months and was then honorably discharged. February 7 of the following year he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah J., daughter of Samuel and Mary Doll, natives of Pennsylvania. Of the three children born to them, Samuel W. is deceased. Those surviving are Mary F. (Mrs. Eli Mock) and Harvey W.
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Mr. Anderson owns sixty acres of well cultivated land, and with his wife is a regular attendant and devoted member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics, he is a stalwart Republican, and with his family is highly esteemed in social circles, and at his hospitable home is wont to entertain many friends.
THOMAS SCHREFFLER. Among the pioneers and substantial farmers of this county this gentleman is numbered. he began life empty-handed, but by unremitting industry, seconded by sound judgment and shrewd business faculties, he has acquired wealth, and is the proprietor of a fine farm in Bethlehem Township. A native of Pennsylvania, he was born in Dauphin County, November 14, 1817, and is a son of Conrad and Catherine (Bordner) Schreffler, natives respectively of Berks and Dauphin Counties, Pa.
The father of our subject was a soldier in the War of 1812, and in the spring of 1837, with his parents, emigrated to this county and lived for one year on a farm in Pike Township. After residing in Perry Township one year thereafter, the family took up their abode in Bethlehem Township, where our subject was reared to man's estate. Here young Thomas assisted his father in cultivating their new farm, and hence may he considered one of the early settlers of this county. His education was received in the common schools of the district in his native State, where he acquired a good practical knowledge.
Miss Catherine, daughter of Daniel Snyder, an early settler of this township, became the wife of our subject in 1843. Seven of the eight children born to them are living and bear the respective names of Solomon, John, Conrad, James, Parcilla, Annie and Malinda; Jefferson is deceased. Mr. Schreffler is one of the self-made men, as he started out in life with no means whatever, and by hard work and close economy has placed himself among the wealthy farmers of this part of the county. He now owns two hundred and twenty-five acres of good farming land which is well-stocked, and from his agricultural interests he derives a handsome income.
Mr. Sehreffler is well informed regarding general topics, and having weighed the political questions of the day has identified himself with the Democratic party. he is popular in local affairs and served his district as School Director for a number of years. With his wife, he is a regular attendant at the Lutheran Church, of which they are members and looked upon with respect by all who know them. Our subject is a member of the, Grange at Navarre and himself and wife are valued members of the community. Their home is replete with every comfort that one could desire, and their social and moral qualities have won them many friends during the number of years which they have resided here, and have made them an influence for much good in social and religious matters.
AMASA BAILEY has made farming his principal occupation, and that he has been successful, is attested by the appearance of his fine and well-managed farm, with its many valuable improvements, in Perry Township. He is a native of Massillon, his birth occurring November 14, 1830. He is the son of Almon, Sr., and Sarah (Eaton) Bailey, natives of Massachusetts. His father, who was a soldier in the War of 1812, emigrated in 1814 to Cleveland, this State, the journey from Massachusetts to the Forest City consuming six weeks. There the elder Mr. Bailey resided until 1825, following his trade of a harness and saddle maker. At the expiration of that time, he went to Akron, where He was similarly employed until his advent into this county in 1826.
On making his home in this section, the father of our subject located in what is now the Fourth Ward of Massillon, whence he removed to the farm which is the present property of our subject, set-
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tling upon the place when it bore but little semblance to its now prosperous condition. He was a truthful, upright, honorable man, and his citizenship was creditable to his adopted township. He took a great interest in whatever concerned his community, and departed this life December 11, 1873. He was followed to the better land four years later by his wife, who died December 29, 1877. They were the parents of a large family of children, only two of whom are surviving: Mrs. Mary A. Brown and our subject. The father gave his earnest support to the Republican party, and in his death the county lost one of its best citizens.
Amasa Bailey, of this sketch, was retired to man's estate in this county, and has done much pioneer work. He received his education in the log schools of that early period, and making the best of his limited opportunities, is to-day a well-read and intelligent gentleman. He was married February 22, 1870, to Miss Eleanor Jones, who was born in Berks County, Pa., January 1, 1837, and is the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Wann) Jones, also natives of the Keystone State. In 1844, Mrs. Mailey accompanied her parents on their removal to this county, the journey being made overland with tennis. They made their home in what is now the Fourth Ward of Massillon, where the parents died. They had a family of four children: Joanna, Mrs. Thomas J. Hill; Elizabeth, the widow of Peter Hill; Mrs. Bailey; and Hannah, the wife of Nathan Moles.
To our subject and his estimable wife has been born a family of two children, James H., who is deceased, and Warren R. Mr. Bailey is the proprietor of ninety-eight and one-half acres of valuable bud, which compares favorably with other farms in this vicinity in point of cultivation and improvement. He and his family are quietly enjoying the comforts of life that they have gathered around them, and are kindly, hospitable people, and much esteemed members of society.
Our subject, in his political relations, always casts a straight Republican vote, is ever ready in a quiet way to advance the interests of his party, but never makes himself conspicuous by seeking political honors. Socially, he is a member of Perry Grange at Massillon, with whose affairs He has been actively identified since joining it. The father of Mrs. Bailey died in 1885, when in his eighty-sixth year, and her mother, who was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, died in 1873.
Samuel H. BAUGHMAN owns and occupies a farm of two hundred and forty-nine acres in Sugar Creek Township, where the work of his funds is plainly indicated by its present condition. The property bears the usual improvements made by a man of enterprising spirit and good judgment, and presents an appearance of home comfort attractive to the passer-by. Having come here when twenty years of age, Mr. Baughman knows much of the history of this part of the State, and has done his share in clearing and opening up the new country for those who should cone after. He deserves great credit for the manner in which he has fought the battle of life, as he began his personal career with an extremely limited capital and little book knowledge. By dint of good habits and firm principles, he has won his way to a position of worldly prosperity, and gained the esteem of his associates while so doing.
Born in Cumberland County, Pa., August 15, 1815, our subject is the son of John and Margaret Baughman, who were also born in the Keystone State. The father, who occupied a good position among his fellow-citizens, is said to have been to soldier in the War of 1812. Samuel H. was a young man of twenty years when he accompanied his parents and other members of the family to this county, and with them located upon a raw tract of land in Tuscarawas Township, which is now the property of his brother, David H. They resided for a time on a log cabin and were among the early pioneers of the county and township. Of the parental family, the following children survive: Ellen, who makes her home in
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Indiana; Margaret, Mrs. Philip Bretz, of Summit County, this State; Samuel H., our subject; Sallie A., now the widow of Lewis Lessig, and David H.
When ready to choose a vocation in life, young Baughman began as an agriculturist, which occupation he has always followed, and the success which he tins met, with in the prosecution of his calling and the accumulation of property is commendable, as he is one of those who began at the very foundation of worldly affairs. He attended the pioneer schools of the township where he lived, and which were taught in a rude log house heated by an open fireplace. As soon as large enough, his services were required on the farm, and he thus received a thorough training in the business in which he Tins been so successful.
The marriage of Mr. Baughman and Miss Elizabeth Smith was solemnized July 30, 1846. Mrs. Baughman is also a native of Stark County and the daughter of Jacob Smith, an early settler in Sugar Creek Township. She is one of those who believe that a wife and mother should keep up her interest in those things in which her family is interested and not allow the cares of housekeeping to occupy her entire thought. She therefore possesses a considerable fund of information and has her own opinions regarding public affairs and the events that are transpiring. Their two children who are living arc Samuel D., who married Amelia Harrold, and has two sons: Thomas and John W. Benjamin P., the second child of our subject, married Mary Blocher. Those deceased in the parental family are John and Lewis.
The two hundred and forty-nine acres of land of which Mr. Baughman is the proprietor have been improved with every building necessary for the carrying on of farm work, and by being properly cultivated bring their owner a handsome income. Although Mr. Baughman has never sought office, he has served as Trustee of Sugar Creek Township for it number of years, and no member of the community stands higher in the opinion of his fellow-citizens than he. He is greatly interested in school affairs and has done much to advance their standard in this county. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has held the office of Trustee, and as a charitable and benevolent man, he is ever ready to extend a helping hand to those in need of assistance, and has thus won many friends, who esteem him highly for his sterling worth.
JOHN J. ZAISER. A prominent position among the business men of Canton has for many years been occupied by the gentleman with whose name we introduce this sketch, and who is a successful contractor and builder. In addition, he is engaged as a dealer in wire office and desk railings, window guards, etc., and has recently added another feature to his business, viz., cement, flour and feed. As may be imagined, he is a busy man, and besides other enterprises in which he is interested, he superintends the management of his farm of one hundred and seven acres, located eight miles from the city of Canton, in charge of a tenant.
A native of Lexington Township, Stark County, Mr. Zaiser was born October 30, 1843. His parents, John M. and Elizabeth (Schuler) Zaiser, were natives of Germany, whence they emigrated to the United States in their youth, and were united in marriage in Stark County. The father learned the trade of a tailor in Germany, and was thus engaged until his death, his farm in Lexington Township being managed by his sons. Of his first marriage, seven children were born, four of whom still survive, namely: Elizabeth, wife of Godfred Drayer; Jacob P., now Justice of the Peace in Lexington Township; Margaret, wife of John Fogle; and our subject. Of the second marriage of John M. Zaiser there were also seven children born, six of whom are now living, as follows: Sarah, Carrie, Rosina, Michael A., William and Pauline.
Until he was eighteen years of age, our subject remained on the home farm, receiving his education in the common schools of the district, which he attended during the winter months prior to the age of fourteen. He enlisted July 9, 1862, and was mustered into service August 14th following, as a member of Company F, One Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio Infantry. He served in the Federal army until December 4, 1864, when he was captured near Nashville, Tenn., and taken to Andersonville. About one o'clock on April 1, 18671, he was exchanged in the rear of Vicksburg, where he lay in camp twenty-four days.
Taking passage on the steamer " Sultana," Mr. Zaiser reached the group of islands ten miles north of Memphis at 2 o'clock A. M., at which time the "Sultana " exploded, and, taking fire, was totally destroyed. Mr. Zaiser was in the water about six hours, when he was rescued, taken to Memphis, and furnished necessary articles of clothing. Thence he was sent to Camp Chase, Ohio, and ten days later was discharged by order of the War Department, June 20, 1865.
Upon his return home, Mr. Zaiser engaged at his trade of it carpenter, serving all apprenticeship, and afterward working as a journeyman for about three years. In 1868, he commenced to operate as a contractor, and since that time has built a huge number of the finest residences in Canton. He took the $30,000 contact for the Grand Opera House; a $20,000 contract for the Duber Avenue Schoolhouse, besides erecting the elegant residence of James F. Dougherty on South Cleveland Avenue and the attractive home of John Knaus, on Fast Tuscarawas Street. In addition, he took the contract for the $20,000 school building erected in Salem, Ohio, and the $14,000 depot for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. e is widely known as one of the best contractors in Ohio, and has gained an enviable reputation in business circles.
The pleasant residence at No. 420 East Tuscarawas Street, in which Mr. Zaiser makes his home, is presided over by a lady of culture who, prior to becoming his wife, was Miss Lizetta Harding. She was born in Lancaster County, Pa., and removed thence to the Buckeye State, where her marriage took place November 26, 1868. Mr. and Mrs. Zaiser have had five children, four of whom live now living, namely: Lione A., Harvey W., Inez K., and Irene A. Mrs. Zaiser mad the three eldest children are members of the First Methodist Church of Canton, Socially, Mr. Zaiser is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The position occupied by his family is one of prominence in the social circles of the city and they are numbered among the best people in the community.
JOHN WILLIS, President of the Willis & Lind Lumber Company, Canton Ohio. Of the various enterprises that have made Canton one of the commercial centers of the. State, the lumber trade has always held an important place, employing large capital in its conduct, and giving to cognate industries a decided impetus Icy the energy and ability displayed in its development. In every department the enterprise characteristic of its leading exponents has been abundantly shown, and the flourishing character of their establishments amply demonstrate the vigorous grasp with which they have seized and held the trade in this gigantic industry. Among the most. active, enterprising firms engaged it, this time is the Willis & Lind Lumber Co., of Canton, Ohio, manufacturers of sash, door, blind, stairs, building material, saloon fixtures, mantels, and all kinds of hardwood finish. The plant is located on East Eighth Street and the buildings fire first-class amid well adapted for the business. The machinery is of the latest and best make and the company employs at, all times from forty to sixty men. The machinery is rum by a hundred and twenty-five horse power engine. This company has a large local trade, but ships largely to the cities throughout the United States.
Mr. Willis, who is President of this mammoth establishment, is a native of the Green Isle of Erin, born in the city of Belfast, March 17, 1830, and is the seventh in order of birth of eleven children born to the marriage of Philip and Isabel (McLean) Willis, both natives of Glasgow. Scotland. When nine years of age. Our subject was left without guidance and care of a father, the latter having died in 1839, and our subject attended the schools
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of the city, where he was thoroughly drilled in book learning. He remained at Montgomery Castle until the age of fourteen years, when he was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, serving five years. During that time he attended night. school, and completing his trade, traveled asa journeyman, visiting different towns and cities in his native country. On the 6th of April, 1853, he sailed for the United States on the vessel, "Zion's hope," bound for New York City. On his arrival he directed his steps to the Buckeye State and located in New Philadelphia, where he worked at his trade one season. In the following fall he came to Massillon, this State, and worked in a door and sash factory for two years for the firm of Mong & Snyder. After this he was in the employ of Russell & Company, manufacturers of threshing-machines. and he continued with that company for six years. It, 1861, he came to Canton and was employed by C. Aultman & Company, in the wood department, remaining three years. In 1861, he with others was ordered out in a company known as the "Squirrel hunters," anti was on guard duty. At the expiration of one hundred (lays he was regularly mustered in and rendered faithful service to his country.
In the year 1864 he started in business on his own responsibility and operated a sash and door factory and also handled lumber. Two years later, he took George Gremminger as partner, under the firm name of Willis & Gremminger, but this partnership was of short duration. Mr. Benskin purchased in May, 1864, the interest of Mr. Gremminger and the firm name was then changed to Willis & Benskin.
This firm later took in Joseph Weaver and John Kaley, when the name was changed to Willis, Benskin, Weaver & Kaley, and continued thus a few years. Then Mr. Willis purchased the entire interest and soon After took in Charles Lind as partner.
This continued until 1891, when the business was merged into a stock company with the following; officers: John Willis, President; Charles Lind, Vice-president; Grant B. Willis, Secretary and Treasurer; and Lincoln E. Willis, Foreman and Superintendent. In 1854, Mr. Willis led to the altar Miss Mary Ann Benskin, a native of England but who was residing in Massillon at the time of her marriage. They are the parents of an interesting family of ten children, seven daughters and three suns, eight of whom survive at the present time. Mr. Willis has been a prominent Mason since his twenty-first year and is a member of Canton Lodge No. 60, F. & A.M. In politics, he is a Republican and his first Presidential vote was cast for Col. John C. Fremont and his last for Benjamin Harrison in 1888. Mr. Willis resides at No. 214 West Seventh Street.
JAMES H. CONKELL, Probably in the history of the representative houses of Canton, there can be found no more striking example of what may be accomplished by industry and judgment than is exemplified by the Canton Monument & Mantel Company at Nos. 10 & 12 East Seventh Street. The Superintendent of this flourishing enterprise, to whom its success is principally due, is the subject of this sketch. A native of Ohio, he was born in Jefferson County, July 12, 1847. His parents, John W. and Sarah J. (Lawson) Conkell, were natives respectively of Prussia and Pennsylvania.
The father of our subject learned the trade of a shoemaker in his native land, whence he emigrated to America in his boyhood, still settled in Pennsylvania. He was there married, and when his only child was one year old he died in 1848, mourned by his large circle of friend, mother survived a number of years, passing away in 1864. Left fatherless when a mere infant, our subject was reared by his mother, And in his childhood attended the common schools near Toronto, Ohio. After leaving school, he learned the trade of a marble-cutter at Ravenna, this State, and at the expiration of his Apprenticeship he worked as a " jour " for two years.
In the fall of 1867, Mr. Corkell came to Canton, and two years later commenced in business for himself. In 1879, in connection with another gentleman, he organized flip Canton Monument &.
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Mantel Company, and in 1891 purchased the interest of his partner, since which time the business has been conducted under his management. The company deals in marble and granite monuments, wood and slate mantels, plain and fancy brass grates, the hearths and facings, floor tiling, etc., and is the exclusive agent for the celebrated Wellman Grate. Mr. Conkell is a practical business man, having been engaged as a marble-cutter since his boyhood, and has an established reputation as a man of excellent judgment. e makes a specialty of the monument business, and carries a full line of the finest monuments in the city.
A very important event in the life of Mr. Conkell was his marriage, which was solemnized December 2, 1868, when Miss Ida Patterson, of Canton, became his wife. She is a lady of great nobility of character and kindness of heart, and is highly esteemed in the social circles of Canton. Six children have been born to the union: Wilson, Etta, Kate, James, Lulu and Frank. A sincere Christian, Mr. Corkell is identified with the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Canton, and contributes liberally of his means to the promotion of religious and philanthropic enterprises.
JOHN MORGAN THOMAS, of Alliance, was born in the County of Carmarthen, South Wales in the year 1825. His entire life has been devoted to the ministry. He united with the Congregational Church in his fourteenth year, and was soon encouraged to preach. He acquired his education under peculiar difficulties, but by determination completed the course, and was called to the pastorate of the Congregational Church in Glynneath, Glamorganshire, in the year 1846.
In 1849, Mr. Thomas emigrated to America, and accepted a call from the Broome Street Congregational Church of New York City. In 1850, he returned to his native land to wed the lady to whom his troth had been plighted, Miss Sarah P. James, of Lanover, Monmouthshire. She has been his faithful wife and companion for forty-two years. Hand and hand, they have traveled life's journey together, sharing with each other its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Thomas were born seven children, who were reared in the fear of God and thoroughly equipped for the battles and responsibilities of life. The eldest, Dr. J. J., of Youngstown, is a graduate of Jefferson College, Philadelphia, and is highly esteemed as a skillful physician and a valuable citizen; Rev. W. A. is a graduate of Mt. Union College and the Yale Theological Seminary, and is now pastor of time Congregational Church of Milford, N. H.; Katie, who was educated in Ironton, Ohio, is the wife of Rev. I. M. Parker, of New York City; Clara Fremont, a graduate of the Alliance High School, is the wife of A. D. Brosins, Agent for the Adams Express Company in Wooster, Ohio; Agnes Lincoln, a graduate of Mt. Union College and of the School of Education and Oratory of Philadelphia, is the wife of R. C. Morris, of Greenville, Ill.; Anna Brace, who was graduated from the Alliance High School, and was employed as a teacher, died August 19, 1892 and Alice Claudia, who was graduated from the Alliance High School, and was appointed to fill her sister's place.
Rev. Mr. Thomas has been a laborious and successful minister for forty-six years, preaching Welsh and English nearly all the time. He has filled several of the most prominent pastorates in this country, such as Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Gomer, etc. He has always been an enthusiastic lover of American institutions, excepting slavery, from the beginning, and has given his sympathy and confidence to the Republican party from its inception. He took part in the War of the Rebellion, enlisting early in 1861, And was commissioned Chaplain of the Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, ned also the One Hundred slid Fifty-fifth in the sane State. He is a member of the John C. Fremont Post No. 729, G. A. R., of Alliance. An ardent lover of music, poetry, and literature, he is also the author of a number of songs published and unpublished, and has been a success-
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ful essayist in the Welsh Eisteddfodan. He is now relieved of the cares and anxieties of a regular pastorate, but by request preaches almost every Sunday. For the last sixteen years, he has been a resident of Alliance, and has proved himself a valuable citizen by the aid he has given in up building its morality.
JOHN J. ASHENHURIST. The Silver Ash Institute, of which this gentleman is the founder, was organized at Alliance for the purpose of curing inebriates and those suffering from the opium habit. It has proved successful beyond a doubt, and although organized but a short time, has cured over n hundred and thirty men up to the time of this publication. Recognizing the liquor traffic as the giant evil of the day, Mr. Ashenhurst endeavors in every way possible to tight its influence and secure its downfall. His has been, and is, an active life, and his services in behalf of fallen humanity entitle him to the highest regard of all.
A log cabin near Wheeling, Va., was the early home of Mr. Ashenhurst, and there he was born October 29, 1848, the son of the Rev. J. Y. and Martha (Johnson) Ashenhurst. His father was a minister in what is now the United Presbyterian Church, and he was also a strong Abolitionist. With the courage of his convictions, he accepted the position of elector on the Birney ticket in the slave State of Virginia in 1844. Ten years later, hr removed to Ohio, where for two years he was pastor of the United Presbyterian Church at Dalton. Wayne County. His next charge was at Hayesville, Ashland County, where he remained for some time. He was a man of broad knowledge, earnest piety and deep consecration to his chosen work as a minister of the Gospel. He is now residing near Bellaire, Ohio.
Hayesville being the seat of Vermillion Institute, Mr. Ashenhurst took advantage of the educational facilities offered by that school and gainer a practical knowledge of the studies there taught. He contributed to the slender purse of the poorly paid minister by working on a farm, clerking in a store and teaching school. When fifteen years old, he became the owner of an amateur printing press, and it was not long before he issued the first number of his paper, the Hayesville Chronicle. Some years afterward, he entered the office of the Ashland Times, and there served an apprenticeship to learn the trade of a printer. Soon after entering the office, be was requested by the editor to write up the local column, and his work was so satisfactory that he was afterward recognized as the local editor.
In 1869, when the Prohibition party was first organized in Ohio, Mr. Ashenhurst joined the new movement, to which he has ever since adhered. Although not then old enough to have the elective franchise, he nevertheless "took the stump" and made speeches in behalf of the Prohibition nominee for Governor. In 1872, he started the Ohio Valley News at Martin's Ferry, a paper which he published for two years find which was the organ of his chosen party in that section of country. In 1876, he was appointed by the Freedmen's Mission Board of the United Presbyterian Church to go to Southern Virginia and organize a school for the freedmen. In that way he was successfully engaged for four years, and meanwhile superintended the construction of the buildings which comprise Tyne institute, at Chase City, Va.
During the fall of 1880, Mr. Ashenhurst returned to the Buckeye State, where he was for two years editor of the Freeport Press. In 1882, he was invited to assume the editorship of the Wayne County Herald at Wooster, which under Mr. Ashenhurst's able management became the most influential Prohibition county paper in the United States. In 1888, he went to Omaha, Neb., where he accepted a position on the Midland, a denominational paper published in the interest of the United Presbyterian Church. After spending one find one-half years there, he returned to Ohio and located in Canton, where he commenced the publication of the Canton Leader.
In the Prohibition party, Mr. Ashenhurst hits always been very prominent. He has twice been
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their nominee for Congress, and June 11, 1881, was selected by the Prohibition convention at Springfield, Ohio, as their candidate for Governor of the State. He made a splendid canvass, and although in each case he entered the field at great personal sacrifice, he traveled over the State and held many meetings, the result living that he received the support of many of those who believe the success of a principle of more importance than the triumph of a party. A man of ability and courage, he recognizes the issues of the day with a clearness gained by extensive reading and Close investigation. He is in line with the persevering, enterprising citizens who are striving to promote the welfare of this country, and is a splendid representation of the best culture and purest civilization of the land.
Mr. Ashenhurst was married March 18, 1871, to Miss Alice Ida, daughter of the Rev. Jesse Steiner, of Ashland, Ohio, minister of the Reformed Church. They have had born to them three children: Harold S., Florence and Alice. The pleasant home of this family is located at No. 78 North Cleveland Avenue, Canton.
HON. SAMUEL KRIDER was not only well known in Tuscarawas Township and the vicinity round about but his none is familiar to those in other parts of the, State who are interested in civic affairs and acquainted with the legislative work of the State. His later years were passed on a beautiful farm on section 21 of the above-named township, where many conveniences were to he found, including a home-like dwelling, which sheltered a happy family.
Mr. Krider was a native of Franklin County, Pa., a son of George and Fannie (Hoover) Krider, and was born January 23, 1811. His ancestors on his paternal side were Germans, while those on his maternal side were Swiss. In 1819, young Krider accompanied his parents on their removal to this county and located on a farm in Tuscarawas Township, where he resided until his eighteenth year, in the meantime having gained a good education in the district schools. Returning to Chambersburgh, Pa., he learned the trade of a tailor, and remained there until 1832, when he again took up his abode in the Buckeye State and carried on his trade as journeyman tailor for some time.
The wife of Mr. Krider, whom he married November 26, 1835, bore the maiden name of Anna Augustine; she was bee in this township, January 9, 1819, and is the daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Shisser) Augustine, who came to this county as early as 1809. Her father was the first Land Appraiser of the township. and exerted a considerable influence in the community where he resided many years and of which he was an honored member. One of his daughters, Miss Rebecca, who was born in 1810, was the first white child born within the limits of Tuscarawas Township. Mr. Augustine was the father of a family of eight children, of whom the four living are: Amanda, the widow of Benjamin Bowman; Mrs. Krider; William, who resides in Sugar Creek Township, and Mary, now Mrs. John Mobly. The parents of these children died within a week of each other from cholera, in 1834.
The father of our subject was one in a family of nine children, three of whom arc deceased. 'Chose living are: Samuel, Jeremiah, Benjamin, John B., Abraham H. and Solomon. Our subject, in the spring of 1836, located on the place where his widow now resides, and carried on the trade of a tailor until his decease. His advantages educationally and otherwise were limited, as his parents were poor, and he was early set to work to assist in the labors, of the farm. The country round about was sparsely inhabited mid was mostly covered with the primeval forests, in which game abounded, and hard pioneer labor was necessary before the homestead which his father purchased could he placed under proper improvement.
The three children born to Mr. and Mr. Krider arc: Benjamin F., who makes his home in Indiana; Charles A., the present Sheriff of Stark County, and Silas W., who is deceased. Our subject is a supporter of Democratic principles. and for many
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years aided in the up building of his county. he was one of the organizers of the Stark County Agricultural Society, which he has served in the capacity of Director. For over a quarter of a century he was the incumbent of the office of Justice of the Peace, avid was numbered for many years among the representative and most valued citizens of Stark County, where his upright life and probity were everywhere recognized.
The Hon. Samuel Krider served two terms in the Forty-ninth and Fiftieth Ohio General Assembly, during which time he was active in pushing through many important bills. He was a prominent member of the Reformed Church and took n lending part in various laudable enterprises, being always found ready to do his duty in securing the future good of the community. His popularity extended much beyond the limits of the county, and his genial, cordial manners gained for him the friendship of all with whom be was associated, either in a business or social way. He departed this life in June, 1892, greatly mourned by friends who were as numerous as his acquaintances.
HON. JOSEPH FREASE, attorney-at-law. The liar of Stark County, Ohio, has been strengthened by the addition to it of many able advocates and counselors, and none are advocates are more worthy of notice than Hon. Joseph Frease. He was born in Somerset County, Pa., May 19, 1827, to Joel and Elizabeth (Field) Frease, the former of whom was of German descent, but a native of the Old Dominion, where he was born in 1786. he was a blacksmith by trade, and did honor to the calling. His wife first saw the light of day in York County, Pa., in the year 1793, and was married in Somerset County. Aleut the year 1830, they came to Stark County, Ohio, and on a farm in Sugar Creek Township the father resided until his death in the year 1869, his wife having passed from life the year before. They became the parents of a good, old fashioned family of thirteen children, twelve of whom lived to be grown, and seven are still living. Joseph Frease was the eighth in order of birth, and his boyhood was passed of a farm and in attending the winter terms of school, which were conducted near his home, and until he attained his majority he resided under the parental roof. He then began the study of law in the office of Judge Belden, of Canton, and in 1851 was admitted to the Bar, after which he began practicing in that town, in 1853. In 1855, he was elected to the position of Prosecuting Attorney for two years, after which he continued his practice until 1866, when he was elected Judge of the Common Pleas and District Judge of the Ninth Judicial District of Ohio, which is composed of nine counties in the northeastern part of the State. After a term of five years, he was re-elected to the position in 1871 for five years longer, retiring from the bench in 1877. His legal training and his self-discipline combined to fit him most admirably for the position he was called upon to fill. His knowledge of the law was broad and comprehensive, and he applied the principles of common and statute law to cases at the Bar with great facility and readiness. Careful in his investigations of facts, painstaking in his examination of precedents, possessed of a sound judgment, courteous and dignified in his demeanor, he held the scales of justice beyond the reach of contaminating influences, and retired from the bench, at the end of his long term of service, distinguishing alike for his splendid ability, his eminent fairness and sterling integrity. He has since devoted himself assiduously to the practice of his profession, and it can but be acknowledged that he possesses ability of no common order. No important points of law are ever overlooked in the preparation of his cases, and they tire ably and skillfully handled throughout the whole process of litigation.
In 1857, Judge Frease married Miss Sarah H. Belden, of Canton, the eldest daughter of Hon. George W. Belden, ex-United States District Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and by her he became the father of six children: George B., Secretary y and Treasurer of the Repository Printing
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Company; Edwin F., a missionary to India; Harry W., Secretary and Treasurer of the Canton Stoneware Company; Elizabeth S., Edith M., and Rachel B. Upon entering the legal profession, Judge grease had to measure swords with men of recognized ability, who had the advantage of many years' experience, but it was not long before he succeeded in impressing upon both his professional brethren and the general public the fact of his ability as a legal light. he is held in high esteem by the citizens of Stark County, and in every respect deserves their good opinion. His residence is at No. 60 South Plum Street. In politics, he has been a Republican since the organization of the party, and recognized as an influential member in its councils in the State.
JONATHAN PRESCOTT BURTON, President and Treasurer of the Ridgeway-Barton Company, President of the Penn Iron & Coal Company, and President of the Fox Lake Coal Company, is one of the most successful and prominent citizens of Massillon. the different enterprises with which he is connected. and in the development of which he has ever been am integral factor, are upon a solid financial basis and have contributed materially to advance the interests of this portion. The Ridgeway-Burton Company of Ohio owns eight different mines, from which they ship the Massillon Coal and Black Band Iron Ore. The Penn Iron & Coal Company owns iron furnace and iron ore mines at Canal Dover, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, while the Fox Lake Coal Company has its headquarters at Cleveland, their coal mines being near Massillon.
At Penn's Manor, near Philadelphia., Pa., out subject was born September 30, 1820. The family of which he is a member originated in England, whence his great-grandfather, Jonathan Mutton, emigrated to America in company with William Penn and settled at Penn's Manor, in what is now Bucks County, where he died. Grandfather Jonathan Burton was a farmer in his native State, Pennsylvania, where he passed his entire life. The father of our subject, William Burton by name, was born near Philadelphia, and during his early life engaged as a civil engineer, but later became a contractor and builder. Among the public works which he constructed in Pennsylvania was a part of the Delaware division of the Pennsylvania Canal aid also the Delaware and Chesapeake, in which venture he was unfortunate, losing all he invested. He also contracted part of the Philadelphia & Trenton Railroad and one of the first recollections of our subject is that of riding with his father in the first ears ever run on the road, they being drawn by horses.
The mother of our subject, Rosanna (Calbraith) Burton, was born in County Antrim, Leland, of Scotch descent, and died when quite young. Jonathan Prescott was the youngest child in the family circle and was reared in his native place, his education being gained at Penn's Manor. When seventeen years old, he went, to Trenton, N. J., where he spent one year, and proceeded thence to the city of New York. e entered the employ of Lord & Taylor, a prominent firm of that city, which is still in existence. When less than twenty, he embarked in business for himself as a merchant, the firm name being Brown & Burton, and for a short time remained in that connection, doing an extensive business and gaining a practical experience, which was of inestimable value to him in the business transactions of later years.
In 1842. Mr. Burton removed to Philadelphia, where he engaged in the wholesale dry-goods business under the firm name of Burton & Greis, the partnership continuing until 1896. Afterward he became a member of the firm of Davis, Burton & Co., and for nine years was engaged in the French and India importing trade. During that time, he was for the most part stationed in Europe, at Lyons and Paris, where he had charge of purchasing the goods and shipping them to New York and Philadelphia. Meanwhile, he traveled through the continent and visited the principal points of interest. Until 1858, when he withdrew from the connection, the firm of Davis, Burton & Co. transacted the most extensive business in New York and
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Philadelphia, which in those days were at the head of the importing trade.
The year 1859 witnessed the arrival of Mr. Barton at Massillon, where he remained for two years. His former partner, Mr. Davis, had become an officer on Gen. J. C. Fremont's staff, stationed at St. Louis, Mo., and, being ill, sent for our subject. It was in the year 1861 when, on account of the war, all business was injured, and especially the iron trade, in which Mr. Burton was interested at Massillon. Accordingly, he went to St. Louis and became Deputy Military Quartermaster of the Western army, a position which he occupied for more than six months with notable ability.
When the depression in business circles ceased, Mr. Burton returned to Massillon, where he purchased the stock in the furnace and established the business, continuing alone until 1876. He then founded the corporation known as the Burton Furnace Company, of which he has since been President. The Massillon Coal has the reputation of being the finest soft coal in the world for fuel, and at that time it was the only coal that could be used raw without coking in the manufacture of iron from ore. He laid the plans to rebuild the furnaces with a capital stock of $200,000, but finding that coke was far superior for the purpose intended, changed his plans and bought the furnace at Canal Dover, which had been on a large scale and now has all the modern improvements for the manufacture of pig iron.
In July, 1879, the Ridgeway-Burton Company was organized with Mr. Burton as President, and they engage as dealers in coal and iron ore, their office being located at No. 39 South Erie Street, Massillon, and No. 204 Superior Street, Cleveland, Ohio. In 1880, Mr. Burton organized the Fox Lake Coal Company with a view to consolidate and define his interest with the Ohio and Pennsylvania Coal Company, and opened mines convenient for market at Cleveland, his object being to reach different markets without a transfer on railroads. he is by far the most extensive operator of coal and iron here and is an acknowledged authority on all matters pertaining to the business.
On the corner of Prospect and Main Streets, Mr. Burton tins a beautiful residence and there, surrounded by his family, he finds relaxation from the business cares that crowd upon him. He was first married in Philadelphia, in 1845, his wife being Elizabeth Jenkinson, who was born in Maryland and died at Massillon in 1867. In February, 1871, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Zerbe, a native of Stark County, Ohio, her father, Jonathan Zerbe, having been at one time a prominent business man of Massillon. Mr. and Mrs. Burton are the parents of four children: Alice C., Clara, Jonathan Prescott, Jr., and Courtney, all of whom have received splendid educational advantages and are intelligent as well as highly popular in social circles.
In his political connection, Mr. Burton is firm in his support of the principles of the Republican party. e served as a member of the City Council for two terms, during which time he was Chairman of the Finance Committee. e was reared in the Society of Friends. As a Master and Royal Arch Mason, a business man of superior attainments, and a man of honor, his position is among the foremost residents of Massillon, where he has so long made his home.
JOHN YINGLING. Favorably located in Perry Township, Stark County, is a tract of one hundred and nineteen acres, which is owned and operated by the gentleman above named. It is supplied with such barns, granaries, etc., as are needed, and the trees and vines that supply the family with various fruits in their season. Mr. Yingling has been engaged in farming during the greater part of his life since arriving at years of discretion, find makes of his vocation both an art and a science. He was born in Massillon, September 13, 1840, and is the son of John and Helena (Gugor) Yingling, natives of Prussia.
Bidding adieu to their old home in Germany, the parents of our subject in 1840 set sail for America and twenty-one days later landed in the
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city of New York. Thence they came via the Hudson River and Erie Canal to Buffalo, where they boarded a lake steamer, which conveyed them to Cleveland, from which city they came to Massillon by the canal. After a residence in that place for a number of years, Mr. and Mrs. Yingling finally located on the farm where our subject is residing at the present time. Their first home in the new country was a log cabin, where they resided until the land was placed under cultivation and they had the means and time to replace the rude structure with a more comfortable dwelling. Here the father died in 1871, being followed to the better land the succeeding year by his good wife. The family of three children bore the respective names of John, Frank find Helena, the latter being the widow of George Helena. The father was one of the prominent German pioneers of Perry Township, and religiously, was a member of the Catholic Church.
He whose name heads this sketch has always made his (home in this county, where he received a good education both in the German and English languages. When ready to establish a home of his own, he was married to Miss Regina Sibilo, who was also a native of Massillon, having been born December 25, 1842, to Nicholas and Regina Sibilo, natives of the Fatherland. The father of Mrs. Yingling emigrated to America in 1841, and on taking up his abode in Massillon, engaged fit the grocery business, in which line of trade he was more than ordinarily successful. The mother of Mrs.Yingling accompanied her parents to the United States when eleven years of age, find they also located in Perry Township.
Of the large family of children born to our subject and his wife, twelve are living, namely: Flora, Mrs. John Frantz; Theresa, Mrs. Theodore Cramer; Frederick, Louis, Anthony; Ida, Mrs. Otto Kohn; Clara, Amelia, Charles, George, William and Catherine. Mr. Yingling, as before stated, owns a valuable farm containing one hundred and nineteen acres, which he has placed under the best cultivation. In the prosecution of the work to which he has devoted himself, he is energetic prudent and efficient, winning thereby a fair share of the substantial benefits that accrue from such labors. His political sentiments have led him to identify himself with the Democratic party, and his reputation among his fellow-citizens as a man of exemplary habits and unimpeachable integrity is of the best. He is now serving as a Democratic committeeman of Perry Township, and religiously, is associated with the work of the Catholic Church as one of its most valued members.
CAPT JOHN JACOBS, an old and prominent settler of Stark County, Ohio, and all ex-canal-boat man, has for some time been successfully a operating a coal mine on his farm, and is also engaged in agricultural pursuits. he was born in Franklin County, Pa., April 15, 1812, and owing to the fact that he was left an orphan at an early day, and was reared by strangers, he was never an attendant at school. After remaining with those who gave him a shelter, and assisting them with the laborious duties of the farm, he started out to make his own way in the world without a cent, and so anxious was he to become independent and to secure employment, that he at first labored for $3 per month amid afterward $4.50.
In the spring of 1837, he came all the way to Ohio on foot, over the mountains via Pittsburgh, from which place he took a boat to Wellsville, Ohio, after which he came, to Stark County, finally reaching Massillon, where he found that his capital consisted of just $9. He soon secured employment at clearing land and building barns, after which he worked in the warehouse of Mr. Rawson, and still later purchased a one-half interest in the "Halcyon" in partnership with a Mr. McCully, but at the end of two years sold his interest, and in partnership with the Rawsons, purchased the "Acadia," of which he became Captain, and which he ran between Massillon and Cleveland, the journey occupying four days, and sixty-five miles of it being made by canal. Some years Inter, he sold his share in
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this boat and bought a one-half interest in two boats, but later disposed of his interest in these also. During this time, he purchased one hundred acres of land two and a half miles from Massillon, and while absent looking after his boats, the farm was ably managed by his wife. He became the owner of the boat "Eldridge,'' and for eighteen years of his career, he held the title of Captain.
Later Capt. Jacobs and a Mr. Bowman purchased a mercantile establishment, but at the end of one year closed out their stock and our subject turned his attention to farming and the coal business, leasing the coal on his farm. Some years later, he opened a coal mine at Canal Fulton for Cleveland parties, and later opened a mine on land belonging to Mr. finish, and one on his own land, and has since been one of the most extensive coal miners and dealers of the county. He is the owner of four farms: an improved farm of one hundred and seventy acres in Tuscarawas Township; two in Lawrence Township one comprising one hundred and fifty-six acres, and the other one hundred and fifteen acres and one containing one hundred and seventy acres in Jackson Township. He operates the last in partnership with J. G. Warwick, whom he has been associated for the past twenty-five years. Besides this valuable property, he owns about four hundred and eighty acres of improved land in Adair County, Iowa, and one hundred and Sixty acres in McLean County, Ill. While on the canal, he operated both freight and packet boats, and at one time made the run from this point to Cleveland and back again in four days, never taking any rest except while eating.
Our subject is a Director and one of the organizers of the First National Bank of Massillon, and owns stock in the Hicks Brown Flouring Mill of Mansfield, in which his daughter and sons are partners. This mill has n five hundred barrel capacity. He is interested in the Western Straw Board Company at St. Mary's, and is also one of its Directors and stockholders. He has been a resident of Massillon since 1869, but still looks after his farms and his coal interests. He is a partner in the Millport Coal Company, and also owns some business blocks in Massillon. He is a wide-awake and enterprising man of business, and is essentially self-educated and self-made. He was married in Massillon in 1841, to Miss Caroline Cannon, a native of Pennsylvania, who came with her parents to Ohio when a child. She died March 6, 1886, having become the mother of the following children: Warren, Secretary and Treasurer of the Massillon Bridge Works; Oliver S., Secretary, Treasurer and Superintendent of the Western Straw Board Company; Carrie, bur's. Hicks Brown, and three Children that died in childhood. Mr. Jacobs supports the measures of Democracy, and in every respect has been one of the enterprising and pushing citizens of the county, and has done much to make it the flourishing agricultural and commercial region that it now is. He deserves great credit for his success in life, and points an excellent lesson to the youth of to-day, whose advantages for advancement are so much greater than his were.
JOHN URSCHEL.. The world is crowded with men and women each trying to gain success through the different avenues of money-making, and day after day the ceaseless round of duty goes on; some giving attention to professional callings, some buying and selling in commercial headquarters, and still others cultivating the soil it is a pretty generally conceded fact that the agriculturist leads the freest and easiest life, since his time is his own through much of the year. And certainly to no class of breadwinners are we indebted for more beneficial results that to the farmer.
Our subject is at the present time identified with the latter named class, and it would be hard to find a more genial, courteous or intellectual gentleman than Mr. Urschel. who is at the present time cultivating the soil on section 12, Bethlehem Township, Stark County, Ohio, where he has a good estate. he is n native of this county, having been born September 16, 1837, and is thus more interested in its welfare than he would be were it otherwise. He is the son of Daniel and Barbara
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Urschel, natives of Germany, who determined to emigrate to the New World in 1835. They set sail from Bremen in a sailing vessel, and, after a tedious voyage, landed on American shores, thence coming directly to this county and taking up their abode in Bethlehem Township, where they were identified with the early settlers and well-to-do citizens. They resided for some time in a log house al an uncultivated tract of land, which the father by much hard labor placed under good improvement. The mother departed this life Mach 29, 1885, and the father died December 25, 1887.
Mr. Urschel of this sketch was the fourth in order of birth of the, parental family, of whom we mention those surviving: Catherine, Mrs. Peter Roche; Barbara, wife of Peter Strauss; Daniel; our subject; Andrew; Phoebe, the wife of Frederick Leifer; and Jacob. Our subject has always lived in his native county, where he was reared on a farm and gained a sound, practical knowledge of agricultural pursuits, which has been his life calling, with the exception of eight years spent in the tanning business in Lucas County, this State. His educational advantages were limited, but he lost no opportunity to improve his mind, and today keeps himself thoroughly posted On what is going on about him in the world.
When ready to establish a home of his own, Mr. Urschel was united in marriage with Miss Mary Schenkel, the ceremony which made them one being performed May 27, 1869. Mrs. Urschel was born in this township to Jacob and Elizabeth Schenkel, the former of whom is deceased. To them has been granted a family of three children, viz.: Daniel F., Jacob J. and William L.
Our subject is the owner of one hundred and fifty-three acres of land, which he has improved, has under a fine state of tillage and has erected thereon neat frame buildings. He now stands among the foremost agriculturists of this township, who have contributed so largely to the prosperity of this part of the State. With true public spirit and characteristic liberality, he has aided every enterprise that would in any way advance the welfare of the community. e is a Democrat in politics, and although frequently solicited to hold public office, has always refused to do so, preferring the quiet of home life to the worry and turmoil of official positions. He is greatly interested in church affairs and is a prominent and devoted member of the English Reformed Church, which lady he serves as Deacon. His wife is also a member of that denomination and they both occupy a high place in the esteem of all acquaintances.
EDWARD L. HERING, grocery and produce merchant, located at the corner of Tremont and Duncan Streets, also a prominent livery-man and President of the City Council of Massillon, was born near that city on the 3d of April, 1863, and is a son of Peter Hering, who was born in New York City. The grandfather, Philip Hering, was born in Germany and was a laborer. Thinking to better his condition, the latter carne to America at an early date, and first settled in New York City, but later came to Massillon and was one of the prominent men of this locality.
Peter Hering's early life was passed in Massillon, Ohio, and he learned the trade of machinist, which he followed the principal part of his life. he was a very skilled workman and was engaged with Russell A, Co. for some time. His death occurred in 1878. he married Miss Elizabeth Walters, a native of Germany, who came with her parents to this country when but a little girl. Her father died here two yeas later. He was a member of the St. John's Evangelical Church. The mother is still living, and now makes her home with our subject.
Edward L. Hering, the second in order of birth of five children, attended the Second Ward School in Massillon until thirteen years of age, after which he was employed in the livery barn of D. C. Bunnell, where he remained two years. After this, he was with Russell & Co. for some time, and later ran a drill press for a year. Still later, he was employed as clerk by his mother, who hand started the grocery and produce business in 1878 in one room, and this he continued until twenty years of
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age. In 1883, he bought the stock and has continued business alone since that time. He is a young man of good business acumen, progressive in his ideas, and well understands everything connected with his business. Energetic, reliable and trustworthy, his business is conducted on the most elevated plane of mercantile honor, and is one of the representative enterprises in its line in this section. e has enlarged his store, added to it in every way, and his stock is always fresh and new. He keeps two wagons on the road all the time.
In connection with this, Mr. Hering is also engaged in the livery business, and in 1892 he erected a good barn, 30x64 feet, on the corner opposite his store, and has been successfully engaged in this since. he is also the owner of considerable other real estate in Massillon, and is one of the most successful and popular young business men of the place. In 1888, he was elected to the City Council from the Second Ward and was on a number of committees. In 1891, he was elected President of the Board. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and a member of the Evangelical Church. In politics, he adheres strongly to the Republican party, has been a delegate to county conventions and has been in city and county Republican conventions.
CHARLES A. KRIDER, Sheriff of Stark County, find a resident of Canton, was born in Tuscarawas Township, this county, on the 2d of August, 1817, and is a son of Samuel and Anna Augustine Krider. His father was born on the 23d of January, 1811, in Franklin County, Pa., and the grandfather of our subject, George Krider, was born March 24, 1789. The latter married Fannie Hoover, who was born December 25, 1788, and unto them were born seven sons and two daughters. The Krider family is of Swiss origin, and the Hoover family of German descent. In 1819, George Krider came with his family to Stark County, Ohio, where he spent the remainder of his life, his death occurring in 1873. The children of his family were: Samuel, Jeremiah, Benjamin, John, George, Abraham, Solomon, Sarah, and Eliza, wife of A. J. Stahl. Sarah died in Pennsylvania before the family came to the West.
Samuel Krider was reared upon a farm until the age of nineteen years, when he went to Pennsylvania and learned the tailor's trade. He then returned to his home, in 1832, and on the 26th of November voted for Gen. Jackson. He was married January 9, 1835, in Perry Township, to Ann Augustine, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Slusser) Augustine. Three children were born of their union and two sons are yet living: Benjamin, who resides in Noble County, Ind.; and Charles, the efficient Sheriff of Stark County. Mr. Krider was a well-known citizen and prominent in the community where he made his home. In 1864, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and filled that office for twenty-eight years. He was School Director for the long period of thirty years, and the cause of education found in him a warm friend. he also represented his county in the State Legislature for three years, and was a stalwart Democrat. he held membership in the Reformed Church, and served as one of its Deacons. he was a leading and influential citizen of the community, and passed away June 6, 1892. His wife resides at the old homestead in Tuscarawas.
Charles A. Krider, whose name heads this record, spent the days of his boyhood and youth upon his father's farm, where he was reared to habits of industry. In time common schools he acquired his education, and under the parental roof he remained until 1889, when he was elected to his present of lice. By close attention to all the details of his office and by industrious and persevering effort, he met with good success along that line. he was Deputy Sheriff from December, 1883, to June, 1886. Mr. Krider on the 24th of December, 1889, was married to Mrs. Sarah J. Mobley, of Canal Fulton, daughter of Samuel Miller. Since January, 1890, our subject has made his home In Canton, having been elected to the position of Sheriff of Stark County in the month of November, for a term of two years. The faithful and prompt manner in which be discharges his duties proves that
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the people's confidence in him as a capable man for the office was not misplaced, as he was re-elected by a largely increased majority in 1891. Mr. Krider is widely and favorably known throughout Stark County, where he has spent his entire life, and has many friends among its best citizens.
COL. THOMAS S. WEBB. The older members of a community are doubly entitled to the respect and esteem of their neighbors when their long lives have been replete with acts of kindness, and their whole career marked by integrity and uprightness. The time-honored and respected gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch, was formerly a Colonel of the State militia under Gov. Lucas, and later under Secretary Stanton. he has been a resident of Massillon since 1829, and a brief notice of his early career will be of interest to the people of this section. He was born at Salem, Columbiana County, Ohio, May 6, 1807; his father, John Webb, having been born in Harford County, Md., and the grandfather, also John Webb, in Chester County, Pa. The latter, upon leaving his native State, first removed to Harford County, Md., but in 1804 settled near Salem, Ohio, where he entered six hundred and forty acres of land, which at that time was in a very primitive condition. By hard work he greatly enhanced its value, and at his death it was divided among this seven sons and three daughters. The paternal great-grandfather was a Quaker, and upon leaving his native land, England, settled in Chester County, Pa.
,John Webb, the father of the subject of this sketch, was apprenticed to learn the hatter's trade at Baltimore, Md., and before coining to Ohio entered the employ of a Mr. Jordan, a hatter, with whom he remained until his parents were settled at Salem and sent for him, he established himself in business, and for many years thereafter kept a public hotel. he died in 1827. His wife, Phebe Smith, was born in Loudoun County, Va., a daughter of Thomas Smith, a native of Bucks County, Pa., but who afterward became a farmer of Loudoun County, Va. In 1792, he settled on the Ohio River, at Georgetown, Pa., and assisted in laying out the town, and there reared a large family. He was a Quaker. and was active in abolishing slavery in Pennsylvania. Mrs. Phebe (Smith) Webb died at Salem in June, 1822, having become the mother of three sons and three daughters, four of whom grew to maturity. At fourteen years of age, the subject of this sketch was apprenticed to learn the saddler's trade in New Lisbon, and after completing his apprenticeship, at the end of four years he worked at his trade in Youngstown, after which he peddled for eight months. He then came to Massillon at the solicitation of Dr. Townsend, it friend of his father, and in the fall of 1829, opened a shop here, which he conducted with success for three years. In 1831. He married Miss Margaret Harbaugh, a native of Hagertown, Washington County, Md., a sister-in-law of Judge Eberhard. In 1832, he opened a public house, and from the first this enterprise met with success. In 1846, a Mr. Spangler, a traveling man from Philadelphia, stopped at his house and was so pleased with the way it was conducted that he wrote Mr. Webb to come to Philadelphia and look at a house in that city; this he did, and with some assistance from Mr. Spangler, he opened the Eagle House, which he ably managed for five years. he next converted three dwellings in that city into a block known as the Union Hotel, and as he conducted a model house, he prospered financially, and at the end of five years he began conducting the United States Hotel at Atlantic City, but at the end of two years, or in 1857, returned to Massillon, and here purchased property with the intention of making this place his home. He also bought one thousand acres of land two miles from the town, and after conducting it for one year he rented it and from time to time sold portions of it. he has started his sons in the hotel business in Philadelphia, and, like their father before them, they are doing well. About 1859, Mr. Webb built the Gas Works of Massillon, but at the end of one year sold out to a company from Philadelphia.
While in the hotel business in this city in early
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times, he gave considerable attention to horse trading and buying, and made ten trips to Baltimore and Washington, D. C., to dispose of his animals. He was deeply interested in politics during the campaign of William Henry Harrison for the Presidency and headed many processions in his honor. In 1836, he made the race for County Sheriff on the Republican ticket, and although the Democratic party usually had a majority of eight hundred votes, he came within seventeen votes of being elected. he was made Colonel of the State militia in 1836, and in 1861 was appointed Post Commander of Massillon by Secretary of War Stanton, and was commissioned Colonel by him and placed in command of the One Hundred and Fourth and One Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio Regiments, but was forbidden by his doctor to take an active part in the war. Later, he received a commission from Stanton to go out as Paymaster, but refused for the same reason. He and his wife became the parents of six children: Alonzo, who died at the age of twenty-three years; Jesse, who resides with his father; Frank, who was a wholesale grocer and at his death, at the age of forty-four years, left n wife and two children; the three youngest children died in childhood. His wife was called from life January 31, 1887, in her seventy-third year. Prior to going to Philadelphia, Col. Webb was a Knight Templar in the Masonic fraternity, but is not particularly interested in that order at the present time. He has been a member of the Episcopal Church for the past twenty years, and has always supported the principles of Republicanism.
DAVID HEMPERLY. Stark County seat many brave, patriotic, self-sacrificing men to the front during the Civil War, in those times that tested a man's loyalty and devotion to his country. Among them was David Hemperly, who won honor as a soldier, having participated in many of the most important and hard-fought battles of that period. he is now quietly pursuing farming in Tuscarawas Township, and has done good service here in the aid he has given his fellow-agriculturists in promoting the growth of this part of the county.
Like many of the best citizens of this section, our subject was born in Pennsylvania, his native place being Lebanon County, and the date of his birth November 6, 1845. His parents, who were also natives of the Keystone State, were David and Mary Hemperly. The former dying in his native State, the mother emigrated to this county with her family, when our subject was a babe of six months, mid located on a farm in Tuscarawas Township. She was the mother of six children, all of whom are living with one exception, and bear the respective names of Daniel, John, Samuel, Mary, Henry and David. Mrs. Hemperly, a most estimable lady, succeeded in keeping her family together, and trained them in a manner to make of them good and useful citizens. She Survived her worthy husband until December, 1889, when she too passed away.
David, of this sketch, was given a fair education in the primitive schools of that early day, and early in life acquired a knowledge of farming, which has served him to good account. At the early age of eleven years, he learned the blacksmith's trade, which occupation he followed with fair success for fifteen years. On the outbreak of the Civil War, he enlisted, August 2, 1862, as a member of Company E, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry, being mustered in as a private. With his company, he was sent to join the Army of the Tennessee, and as a member of that body, served all through the Atlanta campaign. When Sherman marched to the sea, Mr. Hemperly was transferred to Schofield's department, under the direct command of Gen. Thomas, and took part in the battle and siege of Nashville. He later fought at Buzzard's Roost, Dalton, Resaca, Pumpkin Vine Creek, Chattahoochee, and many others of minor importance. He was captured at Raleigh, N. C. but made his escape within twenty-four hours after his confinement.
On receiving his honorable discharge, in May, 1865, our subject returned home and resumed the calling which he had abandoned when he took up arms in defense of his country. November 4, 1869,
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he was married to Miss Sarah A., daughter of Martin and Mary Rudy, early settlers of Stark County. Mrs. Hemperly was born March 10, 1846, and by her union with our subject has become the mother of seven children, one of whom is deceased. Those living are: William, Delta, Clarence, Nettie, Walter Saddie and Myrtle.
The landed estate of our subject comprises seventy-nine acres, whose value he has increased since it came into his possession by many substantial improvements, including a comfortable residence, which is neatly and tastefully furnished, marking the presence of an intelligent household. Mr. Hemperly owes his present circumstances solely to his own industry, and in his career he has shown himself to he possessed of those faculties that are requisite to success-sagacity, far reaching forethought, and practical tenacity of purpose.
RICHARD R. PORTER, who is now engaged in the practice of veterinary Surgery in Canal Fulton, is widely known throughout this part of Ohio, and is a prominent man. He was born in Beaver County, Pa., February 14, 1819. His father, Richard Porter, was born in Ireland, December 15, 1774, and when nineteen years of age, crossed the Atlantic with his two brothers, Thomas and Patrick. He settled in Pennsylvania, and in Washington County married Nancy Johnston, a native of Scotland. She was reared on the Emerald Isle, however, and in 1795 came to the United States. The father of our subject followed farming in Beaver County until his death in 1841. The mother afterward came to Ohio and lived with her son until called to her final rest in 1869, at the age of ninety-two years. Her family was noted for longevity, and her mother, who was a native of Ireland, reached the advanced age of one hundred and four years.
In the Porter family were five Sons and four daughters, all of whom grew to mature years, were married and reared families, but Eleanor, John A., James, Thomas, Margaret and Betsy are now deceased. Alexander also passed away at the age of seventy-six years. Ann is the wife of Joseph Rhodes, of Darlington, Pa.
Our subject was the fifth son and eighth child in the family. He began his education in the district schools and completed it in the Darlington Academy, being a schoolmate of Judge Forward, of Pittsburgh, Judge Agnew, of Beavertown, and ninny other distinguished men. After finishing school, Mr. Porter turned his attention to farming and surveying, and at the age of twenty-four also began auctioneering. He is now the oldest auctioneer in the State. He also taught a singing school at the same time, and followed the threshing business. In 1853, he came to Stark County, and purchased a farm on section 8, Lawrence Township, where he engaged in general farming and stock-raising until 1875.
In Beaver, Pa., November 9, 1891, Mr. Porter married Keziah Martin, who was his faithful Companion and helpmate for ninny years. In 1889, he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died in Canal Fulton, on the 27th of March. They were the parents of six children: Naucy Jane, now the wife of George Kilgore, of Hastings, Neb., a railroad employe; Maria, wife, of Rev. J. V. Lurch, Chaplain of the Central National Home, of Dayton, Ohio; John Newton, who served for four years in the late war, returned home in 1865, and died in 1878; Thomas J., who for three years wore the blue, is now a druggist of Canal Fulton; Joseph M. is a practicing physician of New York City; and Charles F. is a leading dentist of Massillon, Ohio.
Mr. Porter continued to reside upon his farm until 1875, when he sold out and removed to Canal Fulton. He then engaged in the grain business, and built a warehouse, carrying on operations in that line until 1890, when he sold out and began the practice of veterinary Surgery, having been a student of the profession when a young man. He also engaged in buying wool for twenty-six years, in connection with his other business interests. His possessions have all been acquired through his own efforts, and his industry and good management have won him a comfortable competence.
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Mr. Porter takes an active interest in political affairs, and is a stalwart Republican. He has held all the township offices, and is now Treasurer, having served as such for eight years. In 1864, he was elected County Commissioner, and became interested in building the first iron bridges of the county. He has superintended the work of more than sixty iron bridges, and his interest in this improvement has been of incalculable benefit to the county. In 1867, he was again elected County Commissioner for a second term of three years, and in 1870 was elected a member of the State Board of Public Works, which position he held for twelve years, being three times re-elected. The promptness and fidelity with which he has always discharged his duties have won him the commendation of all, and led to his frequent re-election.
For forty years Mr. Porter has been a member of the Odd Fellows' society, and now belongs to Lawrence Lodge No. 297, I. O. O. F., of Canal Fulton. He has filled all its offices and is now Past Grand. The public and private life of Mr. Porter are alike above reproach. He has been true to every trust reposed in him, his career has been upright and honorable, and to the community he has proved a valued citizen. His name is inseparably connected with the history of the county, and in its annals he well deserves representation.
JOSEPH SMITH. All honor is due to the noble this county who braved the hardships of frontier life, endured many privations, and sacrificed much in order to redeem the land from the wilderness and establish homes for themselves and families. It is to their patient and persistent labors that the growth and prosperity of this section of the country were laid on enduring foundations. Some of these men are still living and are among our most valued citizens. One of these, whose name appears at the head of this biography, may well lay claim to respect as one of the old settlers of the county, in whose development he has borne a part for so many years.
The original of this sketch, who is at present residing in Perry Township, is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Cumberland County, October 13, 1815. He was an infant of eighteen months when he accompanied his parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Smith, to this county. They were also natives of the Keystone State, find on coming to this county located on a new farm among the early settlers of Canton Township. Of their family of ten children, three are now living, those beside our subject being John and David.
Joseph Smith, of this sketch, was reared to man's estate amid the pioneer scenes of farm life in this county, and in an early day used wooden mold board plows and other primitive implements in cultivating his farm. He received his education in an academy, and when his school days were over he settled down to his chosen calling as a farmer.
Mr. Smith, on October 12, 1839, was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Burger, a native of Columbiana County, this State, who was born January 4, 1817. She is the daughter of Peter and Barbara (Werts) Burger, who were also natives of that State and early settlers in the above-named county. When ten years of age, Mrs. Smith accompanied her parents on their removal to this county, at which time they located on a portion of the present site of Massillon. Of the Burger family of nine children, only three survive, namely: Mrs. Catherine Lighter, Rebecca, and Mrs. Smith.
To our subject and his estimable wife have been born eight children, of whom the following seven are living: Alonzo, Darwin B., Cyrus, Jacob, Emma J. (Mrs. J. H. Sponseller), Senora C. (Mrs. John Freeman), find Mary E. Mr. Smith located upon his present farm in 1840. It comprises two hundred acres, upon which he has placed modern improvements, his well-built, commodious buildings being supplied with every convenience, and comparing favorably with the best in the neighborhood. his neatly fenced fields are under an admirable system of tillage, and the rich pastures are capable of sustaining a good deal of stock. Mr. Smith as been the owner of a large estate which he has divided among his children. With his wife,
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he is a devoted member of the German Reformed Church, Mrs. Smith having been a member of that body since fifteen years of age. In politics, he votes with the Democratic party, and is one of the substantial men in his community. Although he is a quiet, unassuming man, the people among whom he has dwelt in peace and amity these many years hold him in warm regard, as they have always found in him a true friend, ever considerate and pleasant in his manner, and they have a high opinion of his personal character, knowing him to be a man of principle and sound integrity.
H. BROSIUS, Postmaster at Alliance, was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, February 27, 1839, and for a quarter of a century has been closely connected with the progress of the city where he now makes his hone. An enterprising citizen, upright man, and veteran of the late war, he is held in high honor by all who know him, and the following brief account of his life will possess more than ordinary interest for the intelligent and patriotic reader.
The name Brosius is of French origin, but the ancestry of the representatives of the family now in America is traced to Germany, where the great-grandfather of our subject was born, Early in the history of the United States, he emigrated hither and made settlement in Pennsylvania, where his children spent their entire lives. The parents of our subject, Harper and Phoebe (Gatchell) Brosius, were natives of Chester County, Pa., whence they removed to Ohio at all early day and settled in a dense wilderness, whose only inhabitants were Indians and wild animals.
A farmer by occupation, Harper Brosius purchased a tract of land in Mahoning County, Ohio, on which he made the first improvements and erected the necessary buildings. He was not exempt from the privations incident to pioneer life, but being a man of undaunted courage and great perseverance, he overcame the obstacles which impeded his progress and attained a competency. In 1846, he removed still farther west and penetrated the sparsely settled county of Cedar, Iowa, where he and his wife died a few mouths after their arrival. They were the parents of ten children, six of whom are now living, worthy and respected citizens of their respective communities.
Thus sadly orphaned and bereft of a father's and mother's care at a time when it was most needed, the little children remained for a short time amid the strange surroundings and the unfamiliar scenes of Cedar County, where the few settlers, although strangers to them, sympathized with them in their deep bereavement, and did all they could to lighten the cloud of sorrow that had swept over their pathway. However, they soon returned to their former home in Mahoning County where our subject, then a lad of seven years, was reared on a farm and became a member of the family of W. Atkinson. During three months each year was permitted to attend the schools of the district, but, other than that, his time was devoted to farm work.
In 1861, when the call came to all patriotic citizens to rally to the defense of their country, Mr. Brosius enlisted as a member of Company A, Thirty-second, Ohio infantry, and marched with his regiment to the front. December 12, 1861, he was wounded at the battle of Alleghany, W. Va., a gun-shot penetrating his right limb just above the knee. He was conveyed to the Beverly (W. Va,) Hospital, from which he was honorably discharged as soon as he recovered from the effects of the wound. He arrived at home February 27, 1862, and, feeling the need of a better education, entered the Reed Institute, in Pennsylvania, where he was a student for two yeas. He made the best use of his opportunities, and the stock of knowledge which he there gained has been constantly increased by a subsequent course of systematic reading.
After leaving the institute, Mr. Brosius resumed work at his trade of a wagon-maker, which he had learned prior to entering the army. In 1867, he came to Alliance, where he clerked in a store for a number of years aid also followed his trade with
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success. March 27, 1889, under the administration of President Harrison, Mr. Brosius was appointed Postmaster at Alliance, a position which he is now filling to the entire satisfaction of the people. It is worthy of record that his brother, C. C., also served as Postmaster, filling that position for fourteen years in a village of Pennsylvania. His father was also Postmaster at Pottersville (now Beloit), Ohio, from 1844 to 1846.
In his political opinion, Mr. Brosius is a Republican of no uncertain tone, and has for years been known as a hard worker in the ranks of that party, the principles of which he believes best adapted to advance the welfare of our Government. He is connected with n number of social organizations, among them the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Protected Home Circle, and the Order of Adelphia. The Grand Army of the Republic post at Alliance regards him as one of its most energetic members and ho is at present serving as its Trustee.
The marriage of Mr. Brosius was solemnized in 1872, when Miss Elizabeth J. Getty, of Clarksburgh, Pa., became his wife. They have two children, George E. and Harry E., well-informed and energetic young men, of whose future the parents have great hopes. Mr. and Mrs. Brosius and the elder son are members of the Presbyterian Church and are active in advancing the religious welfare of the city.
GEORGE W. LEIGHTER. A simple narration of fact regarding the life of an individual is undoubtedly the best biographical history that can be written of him. Therefore we shall not endeavor to elaborate upon the incidents in the career of the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. He is at present residing on section 22, Bethlehem Township, where he gives his time and attention to raising good grades of stock and to cultivating the soil. He has met with success in his worldly affairs, and that he is highly respected, it needs but a mention of his name to prove.
Like many of the best residents of Stark County, our subject is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Franklin County, June 5, 1825. He is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Hounstine) Leighter, who were also natives of Pennsylvania and emigrated to this county in 1831. The trip was made overland, the family bringing with them a few household goods, and on arriving here, made their home for a short time in Pike Township. Thence they removed to Sandy Township, and after a residence there of some years, cane to Prairie Township, where the father became the proprietor of a good farm.
Of the parental family of eight children, only two are living, our subject and his sister Eliza. George W. was reared to man's estate in this county and assisted his father in subduing Nature, building cabins, clearing land, etc. he received a limited education in the district schools, but being of a studious habit and n close observer, he obtained a practical education that has served him to good purpose.
Mr. Leighter has always followed the occupation of an agriculturist, and when fifteen years of age began working out by the month on farms, being thus employed until reaching his twenty-fourth year. Having been economical and industrious, he was then enabled to purchase property on his own account, and although subjected at the outset to many inconveniences, he has succeeded in clearing up a fine farm, supplied with good buildings and equipped with the most practical of modern machinery.
The lady whom Mr. Leighter chose as his wife June 24, 1848, was Miss Margaret, daughter of George and Mary Rosenfeller, early ' settlers in Pike Township. To them has been born a family of nine children, of whom we make the following mention: Emily, the wife of Isaac Hoff; Clara, Mrs. John Graves; Elnora, the wife of Samuel Whitener; Elizabeth, Mrs. John Whitmire; Eliza, Mrs. William Beazel; Alice, Mrs. David Whitmer; Jeremiah, Mary and Charles at home.
Our subject is the proprietor of two hundred and twenty-three acres of valuable land, and in
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point of energy, enterprise and determination, is looked upon as one of the leading men of Bethlehem Township. He is self-made in the broadest sense of that term, and his fine farm stands as a monument to his industry and good management. Mr. Leighter is a stalwart among the Democrats in this section and is a man of good caliber of excellent habits and possesses a keen intelligent mind. With his estimable wife, he is a consistent member of the United Brethren Church, and is a citizen who is most highly respected and well liked by the entire community.
JOSIAH CLUTZ. A plain, untarnished statement of the facts embraced in the life of Mr. Clutz, the efficient Commissioner of Stark County, Ohio, is all that we profess to be able to give in this history of the county; and yet, upon examination of those facts, there will be found the career of one whose entire course through the world has been marked by great honesty and fidelity of purpose. A self-made man in every sense of that much abused term, Mr. Clutz has made all his property by industry and indomitable perseverance. He was born near Graeffenburgh, Adams County, Pa., on the 13th of February, 1831, and no doubt inherited all his thrift and perseverance from his German ancestors.
Our subject's father, Joseph Clutz, was a native of the Keystone State also, and was a tiller of the soil in Adams County, that State, until 1843, when the fertile soil of Ohio tempted him to settle within its borders. He located near Aft. Vernon, Knox County, Ohio, and continued to cultivate the soil until 1852, when he reproved to Fulton County, Ill., and there passed the closing scenes of his life. He was a member of the Lutheran Church. He married Miss Eva Altland, a native of Adams County, Pa., and she died in Illinois when eighty-four years of age. Of the nine children born to this worthy couple, eight grew to mature years and tore now living. Josiah Clutz, the second eldest of this family, came to the Buckeye State when twelve years of age, and, with his parents and other members of the family, made the trip with horse and wagon. He remained under the parental roof and assisted his father on the farm until 1849, or until he was eighteen years of age, securing a limited education in the primitive log schoolhouse of pioneer days. At the above-mentioned age, he began learning the gunsmith trade at Millwood, remaining thus engaged for three years, and afterward worked as journeyman in a small place for the same length of time. In the fall of 1855, he went to Iowa and was engaged in business in Muscatine until January of the following year, when he returned to Millwood. There he continued to follow his trade. He was married there in 1858 to Mrs. Eliza Kelley, who was born near Millwood, and continued to carry on his business at that place until the 1st of July, 1861, when he came to Massillon, making the journey with team and wagon. He located on Main Street and followed his trade here for twenty-one years. In 1882, he purchased the property he now owns, built a shop, and is one of the first-class workmen of the State. His superior workmanship has attracted the attention of all, and he has all the trade he can possibly attend to. He is the oldest and principal gunsmith here.
In the spring of 1887, he was elected a member of the Council from the Third Ward, and filled that position in a creditable and satisfactory manner for two terms. He was Chairman of the Street and Alley Committee and was on numerous other committees. In 1889, he was Deputy Auditor of the City Board of Equalization, and in 1890 he Deputy was Auditor of the Board of Real-estate Affairs. In 1891, he was re-elected to both positions. In the fall of that year, he was elected County Commissioner on the Democratic ticket, still is the present incumbent of that position. He devotes till his time to the duties of this office, and is a most capable and efficient official. His marriage was blessed by the birth of four children, but only one reached mature years, Joseph, who formerly had charge of the gun shop. He was drowned on the 20th of June, 1892, while attempt-
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ing to rescue parties during the floods at that time. Drs. Clutz' maiden name was Welker, and by her marriage to Mr. Kelley she became the mother of two daughters and a son, of whom one, a daughter, reached nature years and is now Mrs. Mary M. McBride, of Massillon, Ohio. In politics, Mr. Clutz is a Democrat, and has been a delegate to county conventions.
OLIN B. ZETTLER. Since coming to Canton in 1882, Mr. Zettler has become well known as the proprietor of the West Lawn Greenhouses and Nursery, located one-fourth of a mile north of the hospital, and which are the headquarters for plants, trees and shrubs of all kinds. His success has been far beyond his expectations, although not more than he is fairly entitled to through his indefatigable exertions and excellent judgment.
In Sandusky, Erie County, Ohio, our subject was born February 16, 1855, the eldest son in the family. John and Cresenia (Keiffer) Zettler, his parants, were natives of Germany, who emigrated to this country early in life and settled in Erie County, where the father followed his occupation of a farmer. In 1867, he removed to Canton, where for several years he was an employe of C. Aultman & Co. His death, which occurred in 1886, was mourned not alone by his immediate family, but by the large circle of warm friends whom his upright life had won. The mother is still living.
When twelve years old, our subject accompanied his parents to Canton, and here he gained his education in the common schools. In his youth he learned thee trade of a carpenter, which, however, he did not follow for a livelihood, but abandoned it to engage in his present business. In his fine greenhouses he keeps a full stock of plants and has large varieties of flowers. As above mentioned, he has been successful and has accumulated a competency in the honorable discharge of his business affairs.
Mr. Zettler possesses an unusual inventive genius, and is widely known as the inventor of the sash-lock and sash-lift, on which he received a patent September 11, 1888, and which will undoubtedly be in common use at no distant day. He is also the inventor of Zettler's Revolving Book Case, which can be transformed into a wardrobe with the removal of the shelves. In addition to these, he invented butted glass sash bars, which do away with all puttying and trouble in replacing broken glass.
September 1, 1891, Mr. Zettler met with a very serious loss, when his place of business was burned to the ground, causing an almost entire loss of stock and tools, amounting to $3,000, on which was but $300 insurance. Undaunted by this severe misfortune, he rebuilt at once, put in a complete stock, and is again doing a large business. His career is well worthy the emulation of the young, for he started in life without moneyed capital, but by economy and industry has accumulated a nice property, including nine acres in Canton, and a comfortable residence.
The marriage of Mr. Zettler, January 14, 1879, united him with Miss Rosa, daughter of Nicholas Deville, by whom he has six children, namely: Ferdinand, Lester, Willie, Vincent, Effie and Ralph. The religious home of the family is in the Roman Catholic Church, and their position in social circles is one of prominence.
DANIEL URSCHEL, Among the natives of Germany who now rank among the prominent agriculturists of this county, may he classed the subject of this biographical review, whose life has been such as to reflect credit not only upon himself, but also upon the land of his nativity. he was born May 17, 1835, and was only three months old when he was brought by his parents, Daniel and Barbara Urschel, to this country.
The father and mother of our subject, upon
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landing upon American shores, made their way directly to Stark County, and located in a rude log cabin in Bethlehem Township, where their decease occurred. Daniel's education was obtained in the district schools and amid the usual surroundings of rural life, but his deficiencies in book lore were more than offset by a knowledge of the practical duties of life.
The lady to whom Daniel Urschel owes the comforts of his home became his wife December 17, 1861. She is a native of Holmes County, this State, and bore the maiden name of Caroline Geiger. Mr. and Mrs. Urschel are both members of the Evangelical Association, and together they are enjoying the success which was earned by years of toil.
Our subject is now the owner of ninety acres of valuable land, which he has improved with substantial buildings and all that makes life pleasant and attractive. After studying the political situation, He became a Democrat, and is still connected with the party which was his choice in early manhood. He takes an intelligent interest in all the affairs of the community, but does not seek public honor or put himself forward in public matters.
JOHN MICHENER. The biography which is giver below is that of the gentleman who, though passed to his final reward, still lives in the gracious influence that emanated from him while on earth. He was a native Ohioan, born in Lawrence Township, Stark County, on the farm where his widow now resides, September 10, 1818. His father, Jonathan M., a native of Lancaster County. Pa., came to the Buckeye State as early as 1816, and took up the land now owned by Mrs. Michener. He married Miss Jane Hobson, a native of Jefferson County, Ohio. Both were Quakers in their religious belief.
The subject of this sketch was the second in order of birth of the children born to his parents, and his early days were passed amid the rude surroundings of pioneer life. Ohio was in its youthful days; schools and culture had not yet reached that point where a finished education was the rule and expectation of the mass of the youth as now. His first educational training was in the district schools of Lawrence Township. his father being the teacher, but he subsequently attended school at Canton, where he was well educated for his time and day. His father died in 1839, and our subject and his elder brother were Obliged to support the family. After reaching mature years, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Beatty, a native of Jackson Township, Stark County, Ohio, born July 9, 1828. Mr. Michener Was a Democrat in his political views, and held township offices for about eighteen years, being Assessor, Trustee and School Director. He was a Quaker in his religious views, and died in that faith on the 6th or September, 1886. He was a man of thorough understanding of public affairs, and was interested in every measure for the improvement and development of the county.
The father of Mrs. Michener, John Beatty, was supposed to have been born in Leland, but was retire' in Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. His wife. Mrs. Michener's mother, was formerly Miss Christiana Powell, also a native of the Keystone State, where She was reared, There Mr. Beatty and she met and married, and they afterward located in Mifflin County, where they made their home until 1824. At that date they cattle to Ohio, and located in Jackson Township, Stark County, where the mother now resides, being ninety-six years of age. The father, too, lived to an advanced age, dying in Jackson Township when in his ninety-fifth year. They had a family of eleven children. six of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, and four daughters are now living. Gen. Beatty was the only son who grew to manhood. The living daughters tire: Rosina, wife of John A. King, Of Henry County, Ohio; Elizabeth widow of our subject: Mariah, widow of John Butler; and Mary, who resides with her mother and has never married.
Mrs. Michener, the fourth in order of birth of the above-mentioned children, was fairly educated in the district schools of Jackson Township, and remained under the parental roof until her marriage to Mr. Michener, August 1, 1816. After
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marriage, this young couple located on the farm now occupied by Mrs. Michener, and there their four children, two daughters and two sons, were born. These are as follows: Mary, at home; John Benton, n lawyer in the city of Canton; Harriet C., deceased; and James W., who married Miss Etta Whipple, and now resides with his mother on the farm. Mrs. Michener owns one hundred and sixty acres, the old homestead, and the third generation now tills the soil of this old place, Mrs. Michener renting the land to her son.
JOSEPH SCHOTT, who resides at No. 17 Lawrence Avenue, and is a contractor and builder of Canton, was born on his father's farm in Sandy Township, Stark County, on the 1st of March, 1834, and is a son of Anthony and Gertrude (Halter) Schott. The parents were born near Strasburg, in Alsace, France. Soon after their marriage in 1831, they emigrated to America, locating in Syracuse, N. Y. The father spent the first year of his residence inn this country in working in the salt fields of that region, after which he came to Stark County, Ohio, settling in Osnaburg. Subsequently he became a resident of Canton, and for five years was employed in the iron works, after which he removed to Tuscarawas County, where his death occurred in 1853. His wife long survived him, and died in Canton in 1886.
Joseph Schott of this sketch is the second in order of birth in a family of five children. The common schools afforded him his educational privileges and in order to earn his own learned the carpenter's trade. After mastering that business, he followed it for many years, and at the same time dealt in real estate on his own account. He laid out and platted what is known as the Keath & Schott Addition to Canton, and by his judicious investments in land has accumulated considerable property. He also owns a cattle ranch in Grayson County, Tex., which is now carried on by his two sons, and sometimes one or two of the daughters stay there.
Mr. Schott has been three times married. In 1860, he was wedded to Miss Caroline Brankle, who died leaving four children; Clara, who was the wife of John Voggelsang, died leaving two daughters; Sylvanus A. and William, who are now on their father's ranch in Texas; and Ella at home. For his second wife, Mr. Schott chose Rosanna Kesler, and they became the parents of a son and a daughter, Albert and Ada. The latter is in Texas with her brothers. The lady who is now Mrs. Schott was in her maidenhood Miss Magdelene Markling, a native of Ohio. They have two daughters, Sadie and Emma, who are yet in school.
In politics, Mr. Schott is a stalwart Democrat, and takes quite an active part in promoting the interests of his party. He has twice represented the Fourth Ward in the City Council, and with promptness and fidelity performed his public duties. He is a man of strict honor and integrity, and the confidence reposed in him is shown by the fact that he has several times been appointed administrator of large estates. At this writing ho has charge of the Adam Lippert estate. Mr. Schott and his wife are members of the St. John's Catholic Church, and are among its liberal supporters. He has succeeded in his business career, for he is a first-class contractor and builder and never fails to carry out his part in an agreement, thus winning universal confidence and esteem.
ORLANDO B. CULLER. This name will be recognized by many of our readers as that borne of a gentleman who has borne an important part in the development of the agricultural resources of the Buckeye State, surrounding Tuscarawas Township, and who has also been a potent factor in the political and municipal affairs of the township mentioned. He is now serving as Trustee of that section, and the work which he is doing conclusively demonstrates the fact that
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he is greatly concerned regarding the improvement of the township.
Mr. Culler may well be interested in this people and country, as he has in both the interest of one born here, whose life has almost entirely been spent in labor with, and for, the citizens of Stark County. His birthplace was in Tuscarawas Town and his natal day February 26, 1841. He is a son of Samuel and Mary (Bidleman) Culler, who were natives of Pennsylvania. The parents emigrated to this county at an early day, where they acquired a good property by hard work and frugal management.
Our subject is the younger of the two children who survive, his brother being Jeremiah Culler. Samuel, another son is deceased. The elder Mr. Caller was prominent in local affairs and served his township in the capacity of Trustee for some years. He stood well among his fellow-citizens, and his reputation for honesty and fairness in all his dealings was of the best. he died in this county in 1885, a devoted member of the Lutheran Church.
Orlando R. Culler, of this sketch, received a careful home training and as good an education as the schools of the time afforded opportunity for, and has applied the principles gained therein to good advantage in carrying on his work. He determined to pursue the calling of a farmer and is now prosecuting successfully his chosen vocation. he is a man of active h:diits, industrious and not afraid of hard work, and thus has found plenty to occupy his time, and attention and does not know what it is to be idle. In connection with his farming interests, Mr. Culler has operated a threshing-machine for the past twenty years, and reaps quite an income from this branch of work.
The, marriage of our subject was solemnized June 26, 1861, at which time Miss Mary A., daughter of David Levers, became his wife. 'Their family now includes the following-named four children: Charles F., Nettie L., Clement A. and Cora B. The estate of Mr. Culler includes eighty- two acres of excellent land and is amply supplied with good buildings, is under a high state of cultivation and universally conceded to be one of the best farms in the township.
In his political relations, he of whom we write is a stanch Democrat. believing that party to be in the right. He is now serving his third term as Township Trustee, and has also been the incumbent of the office of Assessor. He is a good manager, possesses a good degree of foresight, and has his interests under excellent control, and we always find him favoring all things that will in any way benefit township or county.
WILLIAM M. NEWSTETTER, Editor of The Gleaner, the State Organ for the Farmers' Alliance was born in Massillon, Ohio. October 11, 1859, and is a descendant of sturdy German ancestors. His great-grandfather, Conrad Newstetter, was a native of Bremen, Germany, and was the first representative of the Newstetter family in America. He settled in Pennsylvania at a period antedating the revolution, but later moved to the Old Dominion, and from there to the Buckeye State in 1812, entering about one hundred and sixty acres in Tuscarawas Township, where his death occurred about 1826.
His son, and the grandfather of our subject, Henry Newstetter, was a Virginian by birth, having been born on the James River about 1792, and was a soldier in the War of 1812. after returning from the army, he entered land in Ohio and began in true pioneer style to improve and develop it. He married Miss Susannah Voris, daughter of Peter Voris, and on the farm which he had spent the best years of his life in improving, he passed away in 1871. The father of our subject, Henry Newstetter Jr., was born in Tuscarawas Township, Knox County, Ohio, and here he passed his boyhood and youth. At an early age, he began clerking in a dry-goods store in Massillon and continued there until 1889, when he went to Akron, and is now salesman in a dry-goods store there. His wife, whose maiden name was Charlotte Humberger was born near. Brookfield, Ohio and her parents, Jacob and Rachel Humberger, were natives
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of Westmoreland County, Pa. Her parents came to Ohio at all early date and located field, where the father became a very prominent stockman. Later, he located in Massillon and became one of the representative citizens, being a member of the City Council for several terms. His death occurred in this town in 1887. His wife resides in Massillon and is a worthy member of the Presbyterian Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Newstetter were born two children, our subject and Bertha M., who is in the dry-goods store of Allman &, Putman.
The original of this notice was reared in Massillon and received a good, practical education in the city schools. At, the age of fourteen, he entered the printing office of the old Independent, edited by Welker &. Taylor, but later went to Cleveland, where he received thorough instruction for about six months. After this, he returned and took charge of the Independent, then conducted by Charles E. Taylor, and managed that paper until 1886, when he started a job office with a half-medium press and a small amount of type. In November, 1886, he started The Gleaner, then a four-column folio, as an advertising sheet, but it grew so in popularity that it is now a weekly six-column quarto, and has a circulation of over three thousand. April 1, 1892, it was made the State organ, with a circulation of tell thousand, and is devoted to the interests of the Farmers' Alliance and Woman's Suffrage. Mr. Newstetter started as a practical job printer, his only capital being his trade, but by hard work find energy and close application to his calling, he has made a complete success. His presses are run by electricity, and his plant contains the highest grade of cylinder presses, patent folders, and all the latest-improved machinery. He has a complete model of a modern office, in a building erected especially for the business. Ten men are employed all the time. Mr. Newsletter's paper is now thoroughly established, its crisp and trenchant editorials command an ever-widening area of circulation, while they carry with them that weight and authority which a clear, calm and intelligent judgment must secure.
Mr. Newstetter was married in Massillon, in 1884, to Miss Laura C. Vogt, daughter of John Vogt, who is a stone contractor and builder, and proprietor of the Vogt Stone Company. One child has been burn to our subject's union, Malcolm A. Socially, Mr. Newsletter is a Master Mason, and a member of the Knights of Pythias, Uniform Rank; the Order of United American Mechanics, and the Junior Order of United American Mechanics. In politics, our subject is an Independent, favoring the best men, irrespective of party.
CHARLES E. OBERLIN. Massillon ranks deservedly high as a commercial centre, and prominent among its resources is the trade carried on in hardware. Identified with this trade and deserving of notice, is Charles E. Oberlin, who is one of the foremost and far-seeing business men of the place. He is a representative of one of the oldest families in the county, and is the son of Samuel Oberlin (see sketch). He was born in Massillon on the 24th of February, 1855, was next to the youngest child born to his parents, find was reared and educated in his native town, being graduated from the High School when about eighteen years of age.
Our subject subsequently entered the hardware store of S. A. Conrad as clerk, and continued as such for about ten years, after which he became junior partner, about 1883. Even at that age he displayed unusual sagacity and shrewdness as a business man, and remained a member of this firm until 1888, attending strictly to the buying and selling. The firm then dissolved partnership, and in the spring of that year our subject branched out in business for himself. he has n large double store at Nos. 12 and 14 North Erie Street, J. F. Hess' old stand, and the building is three stories in height and is 50x65 feet in dimensions. An elevator is in this building. Mr. Oberlin put in a fine new stock of shelf hardware and miner's supplies, paints, oils, etc., and has a large and flourishing trade. He is an energetic and thorough man of business, anti is highly esteemed, being honorable in all his dealings.
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Our subject is a Director of the Massillon Building and Loan Association, and takes an interest in other enterprises of the city. He owns a pleasant home on Fremont Street, and is the owner of other residences in the city. In the year 1887, he selected his wife in the person of Miss Ella Miller, who was born in Massillon, and whose father, William T., is a moulder with Russell & Co., of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Oberlin are the parents of one child, Howard H. Public-spirited and enterprising, Mr. Oberlin has ever taken an active interest, in all worthy enterprises, and has given liberally of his means to further the same. He is President of the City Board of Teachers' Examiners, and has been a member of the same for four years. Socially, he is a Royal Arch Mason, and a member of the Royal Arcanum, also a member of the Junior Order of American Mechanics. he holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is a Trustee in the same. In politics, he is a Republican.
ALEXANDER HURFORD, a retired capitalist of Canton, was born in this city, November 25, 1817, and is a son of Thomas and Mary (Wilcoxen) Hurford. His mother was born in Brooke County, Va., and was a daughter of Greenbury Wilcoxen, who was of Dutch descent. The Hurfords were of Scotch heritage. The father of our subject was born in the eastern part of Maryland in 1780, and was a farmer and miller. He came to Canton in 1807, and built a gristmill and distillery, which were known as the Hill ford Mills and Still House. Later, he engaged in merchandising, which he carried on for some time.
The subject of this sketch was educated in the village schools. but his advantages were united, as the session each year lasted for only about three months. At, the age of twelve, he began working on the farm, plowing, seeding, etc., and while yet a boy was often required to drive from four to six horses to a wagon. He remained at home until the death of his father and then entered the employ of Hull & Shepherd, commission merchants, receiving $25 per month. He was required to look after the warehouse, and did this work for thirty-five months, during which time he gained a good knowledge of business methods. He then embarked in farming, which he has continued more or less till his life. He ran a mill near Wellsville, and engaged in its operation until 1842, when he sold out, carne back to Canton and bought a part of his father's farm and the mill. Going South on business, he stopped at Vicksburg and at Memphis, Tenn., and from there went by boat up the Yazoo River to Williams' Landing, after which he returned to Wellsville, Ohio.
Mr. Hurford married Miss Elizabeth Swearingin, of Hanover, January 28, 1812, daughter of E. Sweariugin, and settled with his bride on the farm above mentioned, and also carried on the mill formerly owned by his father, a portion of the old homestead. He then carried on farming aid milling for a number of years, when, on nccount of failing health, he sold out. Having recovered from his illness, he began dealing in cattle, sheep and horses which he drove to Pittsburgh, and in this line of trade made considerable money. His next business venture was in supplying ties, wood and lumber, and in constructing bridges for the Ohio & Pennsylvania Railroad, after which he bought wood and ties for the same road, with which he was connected for fifteen years. Subsequent to that time, various enterprises engrossed his attention. In 1860, in company with Peter F. Tramp, he built the Hurford House, a four-story building, and one of the leading hotels of Canton, of which Mr. Hurford is now sole owner. In connection with this, he owns a good farm of three hundred and twenty acres in Lawrence 'township, highly cultivated and well improved. he also owns another valuable tract of one hundred and thirty acres adjoining the corporation on the southeast. Mr. Hurford, Peter P. Trump and Hiram Wise owned and operated the Exchange Bank several years. Subsequently, Mr. Hurford sold his interest to H.R. Wise.
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Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hurford were born three sons and three daughters: Elizabeth, now the wife of Charles Brackebush; Emnm, wife of Daniel Spotts; Rebecca, wife of Charles E. Dark, engaged in the insurance business in Indianapolis; Alexander, a resident of Canton; Alvin, President of the Novelty Cutlery Company of Canton; and Ebenezer, who is shipping clerk for the Diebold Safe and Lock Company. The mother of this family was called to her final rest February 24, 1890, in her sixty-seventh year. She was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church, with which she had united in 1841.
In early life, Mr. Hurford was a Whig, but afterward became a Republican. To many business enterprises he has devoted his attention, and by enterprise, good management and the application of correct business principles, he has won a brilliant success. His life has been characterized by that indomitable spirit which carries forward to successful completion whatever it undertakes. he is now one of the wealthy citizens of Canton, and is also one of its valued and representative men.
LEWIS V. BOCKIUS is one of the prominent business men of Canton, a member of the firm of Bockius & Sons, President of the Canton Cemetery Association, Vice-president of the Diebold Safe and Lock Company, and Vice-president of the City National Bank. He was born in Canton, April 16, 1826, aid is a son of John C. and Rosanna (Keller) Bockins. His father was a native of Prussia, but the grandfather of our subject was born in Fredericktown, Md. He went to Europe as a soldier, and while there was pressed into the British service, but in Denmark he deserted and went to Germany. He became a sailor on a man-of-war, and was with Napoleon's army for a number of years. In 1834, he returned to this country, and died in Canton.
John Bockius remained with his father until nineteen years of age. When a lad of twelve years, he became attached to the army of Bonaparte as drummer, serving as such for five years, and in 1812 crossed the Alps with the army on foot to Italy, his division being ordered to Moscow. At the age of seventeen, he learned the shoemaker's trade in Prussia, and in the year 1819 emigrated to America. On his arrival, he had only twenty cents, and was in debt for his passage. He find expected to be sold on arriving in Philadelphia to pay for his passage, but a friend of his father made up a purse and gave him the necessary $60. To this gentleman, Mr. Bockius gave a note payable with interest. With a small pack on his back, he then started on foot for Canton, where his uncle, John Bockius, was living, and began earning the money to payoff his indebtedness. Again making the trip to Philadelphia on foot, he paid the $60 and added interest and happy indeed was he when he received his note in exchange. On the 5th of Ably, 1820, he returned to Canton, and embarked in the manufacture of boots and shoes. Afterward he added a stock of ready-made goods in this line, and established a house which is now one of the leading boot and shoe stores of Canton, and with which he continued his connection up to the time of his death in 1878.
Mr. Bockius married Hosanna Keller, a native of Baden, who came with her parents to Canton when twelve years of age. She proved a faithful helpmate to her husband in all his early struggles. She died in 1865. Their marriage was celebrated May 25, 1825, and unto them were born seven sons and six daughters, of whom six are yet living: Lewis V., of this sketch; Henry J. and Charles J., residents of Port Huron, Mich., engaged in the shoe business; Charles J., of Canton; Henrietta, wife of R. Rohrer, of Freeport, Ill.; and Mrs. Amelia D. Huntington, of Georgetown, Colo.
Lewis V. Bockins, our subject, was educated in the village schools, and began his business career in his father's store, serving as clerk until 1848, when he was admitted to partnership under the firm name of J. C. Bockius & Son. In 1850, he took a trip to California, but retained his interest in the store, and on the Pacific Slope engaged in mining and trading, and for a time carried on a store. Returning to Canton, he again entered the
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boot and shoe business, and after his father's death entered into partnership with his brother, Edward A. This connection continued until the death of the brother in 1881. In May of that year, another brother, Charles J., was admitted to partnership, but the old firm name of J. C. Bockius & Son was retained, and business carried on under that title until 1886, when our subject bought out the interest of his partner and admitted two of his sons to the business, each taking a fourth interest. The firm name of L. V. Bockius & Sons was then assumed. They do business at No. 10 South Market Street, and carry a large and fine stock of boots and shoes. In 1868, they lost heavily through fire as their store and goods were only lightly insured but immediately afterward the present three-story brick building was erected on the same site. It is the oldest and one of the most important boot and shoe stores in the State of Ohio.
Mr. Bockius was married in September, 1855, to Miss Caroline P., daughter of John and Susan (Trap) Graham. Her parents were among the earliest settlers of Jackson Township, and her father, a very prominent man, was State Senator for seven years. Unto our subject and his wife have been born six children: Charles J., Edward G., Harry G.; Catherine A., wife of Alice Pomerene; Mary H. and Frederick U.
In politics, Mr. Bockius is a Republican, and held the office of City Treasurer for one term He was one of the organizers of the Valley Railroad, and one of its Directors until 1872. He aided in organizing the Citizens' National Bank, of which he is Vice-president, and in the people's Savings Bank, which he helped to organize in 1891, he holds the office of Director. He helped to organize, and is now President of, the West Lawn Cemetery Association, and is one of the largest stockholders in the Diebold Safe and Lock Company. He owns four good store buildings besides his elegant brick residence at No. 133 Market Street. Mr. Bockius is a public spirited citizen who has the best interests of the community at heart, and gives liberally for the support of all worthy enterprises. The brilliant success which has crowned his life is not the result of accident, but industrious efforts have brought it to him. Endowed by nature with good business ability, he has made the most of his opportunities, and his enterprise, perseverance and good management have gained him a well-deserved prosperity. He is one of the leading business men of Canton, and the history of Stark County would be incomplete without the sketch of this representative citizen.
DANIEL COBAUGH, President of the Canton Spring Company, with office and works at South Cherry Street, furnishes a notable example of success achieved by earnest endeavor to excel and by perseverance in a special line of industry. The revolution which has taken place in the manufacture of all kinds of vehicles has given rise to numerous factories for the manufacture of the various parts, and has given an impetus to those which already had an existence. The Canton Spring Company was founded in a modest way in 1878 by Daniel Cobaugh, and is less than ten years, such had been the growth of the enterprise, it was deemed expedient to merge it into a joint stock company, which was done in 1887, with the following officers: D. Cobaugh, President; H. McDaniel, Vice-president; H. D. Myers, Secretary, and J. J. Cobaugh, Treasurer. The factory is a model in its way, as all the newest appliances are found here for the manufacture of their specialties, while the order and system which prevail on every hand add much to the efficiency. Employment is given to about ninety skilled and practical workmen, and the product finds a ready market with the leading carriage makers all over the country.
Daniel Colaugh was born in Stark County, Ohio, to Dietrich and Sarah (Shanafelt) Cobaugh, both natives of Maryland, in which State they were reared and married. They removed to Stark County about 1834. By trade he was a miller. The father was called from life while just: in the zenith of his usefulness. Our subject spent his boyhood days at Greentown, and at the age of seventeen came to Canton and began serving an apprentice-
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ship at the foundry business with Ball, Aultman & Co., completing his trade at the end of three years. he, however, continued in the employ of the firm until 1857, then became an employe of the Ball Reaper Company, and worked in the foundry department until 1864. The following fall he formed a partnership with Ballard, Fast & Co., and engaged in the manufacture of mowing-machines, knives and sickles, which business continued until 1878, when it closed. The same year Mr. Cobaugh founded his present business, as above stated, and the success which he has achieved, and the large and steadily increasing volume of his trade, are the deserved rewards of industry and enterprise in maintaining the quality of his products at the highest standard, and conducting all his transactions upon fair kind honorable methods. His establishment is equipped with every convenience and accessory calculated to aid or expedite the operations of his business.
In 1856, our subject's marriage with Louise Ball, daughter of Col. E. Ball, one of Canton's pioneer manufacturers, and one to whom the city of Canton is greatly indebted, was celebrated. Mr. and Mrs. Cobaugh are the parents of the following children: John, Mary A., Nellie D. (deceased) Anna, Kate, Lulu (deceased) and Dietrich. Mr. Cobaugh has served two years as a member of the City Council, and for the past three years has been a member of the Board of Water Works. In politics, he is a stanch Democrat. He has a pleasant and comfortable residence on North Market Street, where he and his wife dispense a generous and true-hearted hospitality.
JONATHAN KEEHN, deceased. There is always more or less curiosity to know the true and inner history of men who have been long and favorably identified with the business interests of any community, and undoubtedly the biography of Mr. Keehn will prove interesting, alike to both young and old. Brought up to a knowledge of farm duties, he naturally chose the avocation of a farmer, when it became necessary for him to select a calling in life. His experience was wide and varied, and at his decease he left a comfortable property.
A native of Pennsylvania, the subject of this sketch was born in Mercer County, April 3, 1805, to George and Susanna (Shalter) Keehn. He was a lad of ten years when, with his parents. He emigrated to the new State of Ohio, the family making settlement in Bethlehem Township, on section 10. They were there ranked among the early settlers and reliable citizens, and it was there that the father departed this life in 1832.
Jonathan Keehn grew to man's estate in this county, and has done his full share of pioneer work in aiding his father to prepare the ground and cultivate the soil of the home farm. He attended the district school daring the winter months, conning his lessons while sitting on a slab bench in a log schoolhouse. Mr. Keehn had always followed the occupation of a farmer, and was classed among the prominent and progressive agriculturists of his neighborhood, being always ready to adopt any new method which would bring him in the largest return&
When ready to establish a home of his own, our subject was married in September, 1830, to Miss Anna M. Reed, the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Kaufman) Reed. Mrs. Keehn was a native of this county, her birth occurring October 11, 1807. She was reared to mature years by a most excellent mother, being trained to perform all those duties, which make a model housekeeper. She was one in a family of ten children, of whom three are deceased. Those surviving are: Susannah, Elizabeth, Sarah, George; Mary, the wife of B. Straub; Melinda, Mrs. Jackson Drummond; and Caroline.
Mr. Keehn was classed among the best citizens of his township, both as regarded his public life, which was irreproachable, and his civic capacity, in which he acted without a stain. His fellow-citizens, appreciating his worth, his sound business talent and genuine integrity, called upon him at different times to take part in municipal affairs,
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and for a number of terms ho served as Trustee of Bethlehem Township. He used his political influence in favor of the Democratic party, and was much esteemed for his many excellent traits of character. He departed this life July 14, 1868, firm in the faith of the Reformed Church. His good wife, who survived him a number of years, died December 28, 1890, at an advanced age, and during her last days suffered the loss of her eyesight. She was also a devoted member of the Reformed Church, in which body she was an active worker.
The old homestead of our subject is occupied by several daughters, who are managing it in a most profitable manner. One son, George W., was a soldier in the late war, and saw much hard fighting, being present at the battle of Vicksburg. He is a most estimable man, and destined to make his mark in the world. He of whom we write was a strong advocate of free schools, and served many terms acceptably in the position of Director of his district. His worthy character and useful life secured for him the respect of many acquaintances throughout the county, and the deeper regard of those who knew him best.
JONATHAN HOLBEN, formerly one of the progressive and well-to-do agriculturists of this county, displayed much enterprise and ability in carrying on his fanning operations and won for himself a high place among the men of his class in Tuscarawas Township, where he resided. He was born in Lehigh County, Pa., and after coming to Ohio followed his trade of n tailor in Canton for a time, and subsequently located upon the beautiful estate which his widow is occupying at the present time.
The school advantages of our subject were far inferior to those offered lads at this time. He, however, acquired a good foundation on which to build his after knowledge, both of branches studied from books and from the practical affairs of life. When ready to establish a home of his own, he was married in January, 1832, to Miss Annie Ruffner, who was born in this county October 25, 1810, and is therefore one of the oldest living residents. She is the daughter of Conrad and Annie E. (Myers) Ruffner, who carte from Pennsylvania. their native State, in an early day, and located on an uncultivated tract of land in the woods of Plain Township. The family was obliged to camp out in the wagons until a rude structure was completed, and in that humble house Mrs. Holbert was reared to mature years, and experienced ninny of the hardships and inconveniences incidental to the first settlement of a country. She laid the foundation of her education in the district school, and was trained to perform all the home duties by her excellent mother.
After their marriage, they lived for a short time in Canton, and later took their abode on the farm in this township. They became the parents of six children, the three youngest of whom are living, namely: Jonathan F., Isaac C. and Mary. The great grief of Mrs. Holben's life was occasioned by the death of her husband, December 6, 1873, but she was not alone in her sorrow, as his departure from the scene, of this life was regretted by a large circle of friends, who sincerely sympathized with the family.
Mr. Holben begot life without meats, and it was only by the force of indomitable will and the exercise of attiring industry, seconded by clear judgment and sagacious foresight, that he placed himself among the prominent agriculturists of his township. At his death he left a valuable estate, comprising a quarter-section of land in this township, besides one hundred and fourteen acres of land in Plain Township and property in the city of Canton. The home farm is supplied with every comfort, and during his life our subject and his excellent wife drew around them a fine circle of friends, winning the regard of all who knew them.
The parents of our subject bore the names of Frederick and Margaret Holben, and were respected residents of Pennsylvania. Jonathan F., the son of him of whom we write makes his home with his mother and is superintending the opera-
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tions of the farm. He is a young man of exceptional energy and industry, and has won for himself an assured position among his fellow-farmers. Like his worthy father, he is a stanch Democrat in politics.
WILLIAM BECHER. Stark County has no more highly y respected resident within its limits than the gentleman above named, who is extensively engaged in agricultural pursuits in Pike Township. he comes of good old pioneer stock, and was born on section 4 of the above township, March it, 1838. It being generally believed that heredity and environment have much to do with the formation of character, and that our lives are stimulated by the immediate or direct influence of our ancestors, a short resume of the lives of Mr. Becher's parents may serve as an index to the liberal impulses which mark his daily life and which have won for him the esteem of those who know him.
Squire John heeler, the father of our subject, was born in Bedford County, Pa., January 22, 1806, and in 1815 came to this county and made his home in Pike Township, where he is residing at the present time, being the second oldest citizen in the township. His father, Henry Becher, was a native of Germany, having been born in Wittenberg, where his father died when he was two years old. He was then brought by his mother to America, she locating in Huntingdon County, Pa., where the grandfather was reared to manhood. Being trained to farm pursuits, he worked out on farms by the day and month until attaining his majority, when he was married, and made his home in Bedford County, where he resided until the fall of 1815, at which time he came to this county. He was a patriot in the War of 1812, and served under Gen. William Henry Harrison in the battle is which Tecumseh was killed. Later, he was under the command of Oliver H. Perry at the battle of Lake Erie. His father-in-law, Mathias Brothers, had located in Pike Township in 1806, and after the close of the war, in 1813, Henry Becher visited this section on his way home and was so well pleased with the outlook that he purchased land on the southeast quarter of section 10. Returning to Pennsylvania, he disposed of his property there, and in the fall of 1815 carne to Stark County and made this his future home. The journey, which was made across the mountains with a six-horse team, consumed six weeks' time, the route lying most of the time through a dense wilderness.
Grandfather Becher on arriving in this county made his home in a log cabin on all uncultivated tract of land, and was employed, like other pioneers of the day, in subduing Nature, clearing and breaking prairie, etc. Deer, bears and all kinds of wild animals were very numerous about his home, and he brought down many a deer with his trusty old rifle. he was a very hard-working man, and was one well calculated to aid in the building up of a new country, being energetic, affable and kind-hearted. he resided on his farm until his decease, which occurred in his sixty-sixth year.
The maiden name of our subject's grandmother was Magdalena Brothers; she was a native of Bedford County, Pa., and by her marriage with Henry Becher reared a family of four children, namely: John, Peter, Mary and Elizabeth. She departed this life on the old home farm when sixty-eight years of age. The father of our subject was a lad of ten years when he accompanied his parents hither, and has quite a vivid recollection of the venturesome journey from Pennsylvania to this State. His education, which was begun in his native State, was completed in the primitive schools near his new home, The temple of learning was a rude structure, seated with old-fashioned slab benches, and the writing-desk, which was placed under n long greased-paper window, consisted of a rough board, resting on pins driven in the wall for legs. The room was heated with a large open fireplace with a mud and stick chimney.
John Becher remained on the home farm until reaching his twenty-third year, when he began life on his own account, and was married in 1829 to Miss Polly Fuller, who, like himself, was also a native of the Keystone State. She became the mother
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of one child, a son, Henry, and departed this life a few years after her marriage.
The maiden name of our subject's mother was Elizabeth Fatter, and her marriage with Squire Becher was solemnized in 1833. She was a cousin of his first wife, and became the mother of five children, viz.: William, Mattie, Mary, Levi, and John (deceased). She was an active church worker, and a devoted member of the German Reformed Church. Her death, which occurred in 1886, was s sad event in the history of the family, who still hold her in the most loving remembrance.
After his first marriage, the father of our subject located on the farm now owned by Jeremiah Apley, in Pike Township, and there lived and labored until 1855, when, on account of ill health, he abandoned agricultural pursuits, and removing to Sparta, opened up a dry-goods store, which he conducted successfully for a number of years. He is now, however, living retired from active work of any kind, and is enjoying to the full the results of his early years of industry and economy. he has been eminently worthy nod useful to the community in which he is residing, and his neighbors and old friends unitedly bear testimony to his sterling worth, integrity and valuable services as a citizen. The Evangelical Lutheran Church finds in him au influential member and liberal contributor. Subjected to many of the hardships and privations of pioneer life, the experiences tended hot to strengthen his character, and made him more self-reliant, helpful toward others, and neighborly in the truest sense of the word.
In politics, Squire Becher is a Republican of no uncertain tone, and has been a strong advocate of the principles of the party ever since its organization. this first vote was cast for Henry Clay in 1829. He has been very prominent in local affairs, and served as Postmaster of Sparta for n quarter of a century, and is thus widely and favorably known throughout the entire county. he has not only been a witness of the gradual growth of the comity from a sparsely inhabited wilderness to a populous and well-developed agricultural region, but it maybe his pride that he has helped to bring about the great transformation. He has served as Justice of the Peace for twelve years, and was Township Clerk for twenty-one consecutive years, being the incumbent of that office, in all, twenty-five years. He was Assessor of Pike Township for thirty-five, was and is a gentleman whose influence for good is felt throughout this section. He is well known in this portion of the State, and in all matters pertaining to the good of his county, her up building in material prosperity, her moral and educational advancement, and the social life of her citizens, Squire Becher takes au active and prominent part.
William Becher of this sketch was reared to farm pursuits and received a good education it, the district school. When nineteen years of age, he entered Oberlin College, and took a special course of study for five months. The following winter he taught school, and during the summer he prosecuted his studies in Mt. Union College. Then entering the Canton High School, he diligently applied himself to his books for several terms, after which he taught school for twelve winters, and worked on the farm in the intervals.
The marriage of our subject was solemnized October 30, 1862, at which time Miss Eliza J. Hickman became his wife. She was born in Washington County, this State, September 15, 1843, and was only two years of age when brought to this county by her parents. To them has been granted a family of three children: Zoa R., now the wife of the Rev. J. H. Sommers, of Bolivar, this State, and Rettie H., at home. The first child, John D., died at the age of six weeks. Both daughters have been given excellent educations and were both students for two years at the well-known Wittenberg College at Springfield.
Daniel and Sarah (Black) Hickman, the parents of Mrs. Becher, on removing to this county located upon land which hail been entered from the government by Grandfather Peter Hickman. The estate, which comprises three hundred and eighty-three acres, was leased until Mrs. Becher's parents took possession of it. Her father met with unusual success in his agricultural pursuits, and his honorable life won for him the confidence of all who knew hull. In every position, in every place, his genial, hearty manners and pleasant bearing were magnetic and won for him hosts of friends.
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Prior to coming hither, himself and wife were active members of the Presbyterian Church, but later identified themselves with the Lutheran denomination. Mr. Hickman was a stanch Republican in politics, and served as Trustee of Pike Township for many years. He departed this life at the advanced age of eighty-three years, just forty-five years to the day and hour after his arrival in the county, while his good wife, who preceded him to the better land, died in her sixty-ninth year.
After his marriage, our subject resided for two and one-half years on the old home farm on section 4, when he moved to his father-in-law's farm, which estate he carried on in partnership with James and Stewart Hickman, brothers of his wife. Mr. Becher is now, however, operating alone, his farm comprising two hundred and sixty-seven acres of excellent land, the most of which is rich, black, sandy loam, lying along the Big Sandy River. He carries on mixed farming and ranks among the most prominent agriculturists of the county. His residence, which is a commodious frame structure, is beautifully located on an elevation overlooking the fertile valley of the Big Sandy, and is finished and furnished in a manner which indicates its occupants to be people of taste and means.
Mr. and Mrs. Becher are members of the Lutheran Church, in which denomination our subject is Deacon. In his political affiliation, he is a Republican and a strong McKinley Protectionist.
JONAS ESCHLIMAN, a progressive and practical farmer residing on section 30, Lawrence Township, claims Pennsylvania as the State of his nativity. He was born in Lancaster County, Pa., about fifteen miles from the city of Lancaster, November 2, 1834. His father, Abraham Eschliman, was born in the same county in 1800, and after attaining to mature years married Elizabeth Horst, also a native of that county. In 1837, they came with their family to Stark County, Ohio, and located upon the farm which is now the home of our subject. It was unimproved, but he transformed it into a valuable tract of land and made his home thereon until his death in August, 1870. He was one of the leading farmers of the township and a prominent citizen. In politics, he was a Republican, and was a member of the Mennonite Church.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eschliman were born in Lancaster County, Pa., six sons and four daughters, but the eldest died in infancy. Nancy died in Macon County, Ill. She was twice married and was the mother of six children. Christian lives in Lawrence Township; Elizabeth is the wife of Levi Weaver, of Elkhart County, Ind.; Susan is the wife of John A. Hoover, also of Elkhart County; Abraham resides in Nebraska; David makes his home in Montcalm County, Mich.; John died in Pennsylvania in 1837; Samuel lives in Lawrence Township.
Our subject is the youngest of the family. He wane with his parents to the Buckeye State when in his third year, and was here reared and educated. On the 1st of March, 1855, he married Miss Fannie Martin, who was born in York County, Pa., June 26, 1834, and was brought to Wayne County, Ohio, in 1835. Her death occurred November 18, 1861. Four children graced that marriage: Elizabeth A., now the wife of William K. Wyse, of Ford County, Ill.; Jacob M., of Lawrence Township; Nancy I., who died April 13,1888; and Jonas E., of Lawrence Township, who was only a week old at the time of his mother's death.
Mr. Eschliman was again married, November 26, 1863, this time to Miss Martha Martin, a sister of his first wife. She was born in Wayne County, Ohio, April 11, 1839, and was called to her final rest on the 19th of September, 1891. Nine children were born of the second marriage, but the eldest died in infancy. John H. is living in Lawrence Township; he married Miss Amelia Weaver, of Wayne County, Ohio, and they have two children, Alvin R. and William E. Abram W., Mary L, Amos M., Ezra A., Daniel R., William H. and Martha M. are at home.
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After his marriage, Mr. Esehliman located on a farm about a quarter of a mile from his present home. he there spent one year and then located upon the old homestead where he was reared, and where he has reared a family of his own. He has a fine farm of two hundred acres under a high state of cultivation. There is a fine orchard, and the many improvements upon the place indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner, who throughout life has followed general farming. he also engages in stock-raising to some extent, making a specialty of horses and cattle. His business career has been a successful one, and He now enjoys a well-merited prosperity.
Mr. Eschliman is a strong Republican in politics. For three terms he was elected Trustee, and also served as School Director for many years. he is a member of the Mennonite Church and takes an active part in church work. he is recognized as one of the valued citizens of the community, and his upright life and sterling worth have won him high regard.
JAMES M. CLARK is a most excellent gentleman, whom it is a pleasure to know, and who has many warm personal friends, not only in Massillon, where he resides, but throughout Stark County. He takes a prominent part in all affairs relating to the welfare of his community, and by means of energy, tact and good judgment he has made a success of his business, that of a wholesale fruit dealer, his place of business being located on Exchange Street.
The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Oneida County, N. Y., May 12, 1842, and is a son of Thomas Clark, who was born in Lincolnshire, England, in 1812. The latter named gentleman was reared to farming pursuits in his native country, and when coming to the United States in his nineteenth year located in Oneida County, where he was employed on a farm. He later bought a farm in New York State and there resided until his decease, which occurred in the year 1889. As an agriculturist, he occupied a high place furlong his brethren, and in religious affairs was a member of the Universalist Church. Politically, he voted the Democratic ticket.
Maria (Brockham) Clark, the mother of our subject, was born in Schenectady, N. Y. Her father participated in the War of 1812. Mrs. Clark died in New York, after having become the mother of eight children, five of whom are living. James M., of this sketch, was reared on his father's farm and obtained a fair education in the schools near his home. He remained under the parental roof until reaching his majority, when he learned the butcher's trade and later owned and operated a market in Waterville, N. Y. He remained thus engaged until 1869, when he disposed of his interests and the following year carne West and located at Massillon, where he was given the position of Superintendent of the Excelsior Agricultural Works, owned by E. B. Bayless. After various removals, Mr. Clark entered the employ of Russell & Co., as Superintendent of outside work, remaining with them for three years, and at the expiration of that time became the proprietor of the Fremont Mouse, which he operated for a twelvemonth.
In 1884, our subject started in his present business on North Main Street, which has gradually grown until it is now ranked among the leading enterprises of the city. In 1887, he removed to his large building, which is 80x60 feet in dimensions and three stories in height. He handles all kinds of fruit, which he receives direct from the importers, and in variety and quality can compete with fray establishment in Cleveland or larger cities. He also keeps on hand in their season all kinds of oysters, and from this line of business derives a handsome income. Mr. Clark also is largely engaged in the on business and is one of the prominent and progressive citizens of the place.
The lady who became the wife of our subject in August, 1872, was Miss Ellen Chandler, who was born in this State. Their family of three children includes a son and two daughters, namely:
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William, Nellie and Florence. Mrs. Clark is a regular attendant and active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Clark is a public spirited man and takes great pride in fulfilling the obligations of life, both great and small, and is highly esteemed by his business associates. He is a stanch supporter of the Republican party, and though by no means an office-seeker, is greatly interested in the welfare of his party.
THOMAS DILLON. One of the most important points in the building of a house or other structure to be inhabited is the plumbing. The least defect in the piping may cause sickness and death, as it has too often done, without the cause being known until too late. Fevers, etc., lurk in defective drainage and sewer connecting pipes, and it is absolutely necessary, therefore, that the work should be done by a competent sanitary plumber. Prominent among those in this line of business in Massillon is Thomas J. Dillon, who is a member of the firm of Knapp & Dillon, who are engaged in plumbing, and gas, steam and hot water fitting.
Mr. Dillon was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the 15th of June, 1842, and his father, Capt. George W. Dillon, was born in Guernsey County, this State. The grandfather, Samuel Dillon, was a native of one of the Eastern States, and was a carpenter by trade. He emigrated to the Buckeye State at an early date, made the journey with teams and wagons, and settled in Guernsey County, where. he remained for some time. From there he removed to Wheeling, W. Va., where he engaged in carpentering, contracting and building, and was very successful in this enterprise. He served in the War of 1812, and late' removed to near Springfield, Ill., where his death occurred. He was of Irish descent and inherited the quick wit and industry of those of his nationality.
The father of our subject, Capt. George W. Dillon, was a ship carpenter by trade, and built a great many boats. Later in life, he became owner and master of a vessel and engaged in the cotton trade on the Red River from Shreveport to New Orleans. This he followed for years, or until he retired, about 1877. He is now residing in Columbus with a daughter, and is eighty years of age. Formerly a Whig, he now advocates the principles of the Republican party. he married Miss Mary Pawson, a native of Yorkshire, England, and the daughter of William Pawson, who followed the occupation of n wheelwright. He settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, at an early date, and there followed his trade until his death in 1861, when seventy-two years of age. The mother of our subject died in Columbus in 1886, when sixty-eight years of age. Three of the five children born to Capt. and Mrs. Dillon grew to mature years and two are now living.
The eldestt of these children, Thomas J. Dillon, was born on the banks of the Ohio River and remained there until eleven years of age, when he removed with his parents to Wheeling, W. Va. he attended school in all about fifteen years, and in 1856 he was apprenticed to lean the trade of a plumber and gas and steam fitter in Wheeling, serving for five years. In August, 1861, he enlisted at Wheeling, W. Va., in Company G, and was in a number of skirmishes. Later, he was in the battle of Cedar Mountain, the second battle of Manassas, and Antietam, under McClellan; he afterward had so severe an attack of fever that he was sent to the hospital. latter, he was appointed Assistant hospital Steward under Dr. Lewis, and was thus engaged for one year. he was honorably discharged at Cumberland, in October, 1864, and carne home.
Mr. Dillon engaged as a journeyman at his trade in Wheeling in the fall of 1865, but had the misfortune to sprain his arm and was obliged to abandon his trade. In March, 1867, he went to Ft. Benton, Mont, on the Missouri River, and there remained two years, being mechanical engineer in a quartz mill, and putting up two mills, one on each side of the slope. After recovering, he returned to Wheeling and followed his trade there until 1879, after which he came to Ohio and located in Canton, engaging in trade with a brother there. In 1881, he located in Mas-
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sillon and started the large enterprise now operated by Knapp & Dillon, buying out J. F. Hess & Co. This business is located on the corner of North Eric and North Streets, and is the largest concern of the kind in the city.
Mr. Dillon was married in 1874 to Miss Louisa J. Wheeler, a native of Pittsburgh but who was reared in Wheeling. One child is the result of this union. T. T., who is collector in the First National thank. Mr. Dillon has an adopted child, Margaret M. Davis, who is now clerking in Massillon. Our subject is a Master Mason and is a member of Hart Post No. 134, G. A. R. In religion, he is an Episcopalian and in politics a Republican.
WILLIAM L. MILLER. The labors which have resulted in the present high state of development of the agricultural resources of Stark County have been largely participated in by the gentleman above named, who is one of the prominent farmers and old residents of Plain Township. He takes great interest in the welfare of this section, which fact is accounted for by his having been born here, his natal day being August 22, 1829.
Henry Miller, our subject's father, was born in Pennsylvania in 1791, and was of German descent. In his native State he followed the occupations of mason and shoemaker, prosecuting the former calling during the summer and the latter during the winter season. On coming to this county in a very early day, he located on an unimproved tract of land in Centre Township, his first purchase comprising ten acres of timber land. He set himself industriously to work felling the trees, and erected a log cabin, where he made his home for the following ten year's. At the expiration of that time, he disposed of his farm and bought one hundred and eight acres of land in Lake Township, which, like the former tract, was in its primitive condition, and here again he began the work of clearing and placing under cultivation his farm. Wild animals were very plentiful around his forest home, and Mr. Miller, being very fond of hunting, kept his family constantly supplied with choice fresh meats. The marketing in that early day was done principally at Cleveland, and often a load of wheat was exchanged for a barrel of salt and side of sole leather.
The father of our subject partially developed the farm in Lake Township, when he sold it and became the owner of property in Portage County, where he resided until attaining his fifty-eighth year. he was a hard worker and a good manager and placed himself among the most substantial citizens of his township, being highly regarded by friends and associates. He was a member of the German Reformed Church, and actively interested in the welfare of the Democratic party.
The maiden name of our subject's mother was Elizabeth Freiberger, and she was a native of Pennsylvania. By her union with Mr. Miller slur became the mother of fifteen children, twelve of whom grew to mature years. She preceded her husband to the better land, dying when only thirty-eight years of age. The brothers and sisters of our subject were John, Henry, Samuel, Peter, Catherine, Rachel, May, Elizabeth, Annie, Susanna and Adam. The father of these children chose for his second wife Miss Julien Essig, and the following named five children were the result of their union: Joseph, Jacob, Adam, Simon and Harriet.
The original of this sketch was educated in the old log-cabin schoolhouse, whose primitive furnishings have so often been described in this volume. He remained at home until the death of his father, when he began life for himself amid worked for one man ten years, a Mr. Jacob H. Bair, which fact speaks well for both employer and employe. The marriage of Mr. Miller was solemnized March 6, 1855, at which time Miss Priscilla Miller, who, like her husband, was also a native of this township, became his wife. Their family comprised eight children, one of whom died in infancy. Those living are Menodous R., Marvy M., Martin C., Willlam M, Mary M., Martha At., Mandena M. and Magneo M. Milton M. is deceased.
After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Duller lived on rented land for eighteen months, when they
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purchased fifty acres of partially improved land in this township, where they made their home for twelve years. Disposing of that tract, he rented for another year, and for the same length of time resided in Cairo. In the year 1869, he purchased his present estate, which comprises seventy-one acres, all of which are under the best methods of improvement, with the exception of eleven acres of timber land. Mr. Miller devotes his attention to mixed farming, and has been more than ordinarily successful in his chosen field of operations.
Our subject and his estimable wife are members in good standing of the German Reformed Church, and exert a wide influence for good in their community. Mr. Miller is a believer in Democratic principles, and takes an intelligent view of the political situation of the day.
JOHN WHITMORE was for many years one of the most practical farmers in Tuscarawas Township. A native of this county, he has aided greatly in the task of making it a rich and prosperous farming region. He was born February 19, 1840, and was the son of John and Martha Whitmore, natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers ill this county. His mother, who is still residing in the above township, is one of the old and respected citizens of the county, and has been an eye-witness of its marvelous growth and development.
Young Whitmore received the rudiments of his education in the schools of his native place, but gained the greater part of his knowledge by reading and experience. His home life from early boyhood was devoted to agricultural pursuits, and he bore an honorable part in developing the farming interests of his township, and in time improved an excellent estate. His marriage with Miss Elmira R. McIntosh was solemnized May 17, 1867, The lady, who was born in this State September 11, 1850, was the daughter of John and Annie (Bixler) McIntosh, and by their union was born a family of four children, two of whom are deceased. Those living are Benjamin F., who was born June 20, 1880, and Cora B., born July 14, 1884. William H. and Charles are deceased.
He whose name introduces this sketch was for his entire life a stanch Republican in politics, and in favor of all things that would in any way elevate society, and contribute to the happiness and well being of the people. He died at his home April 2, 1885, and the community mourned the loss of one of its most trusted and worthy citizens, while yet he was in middle life, before the infirmities of age had impaired his usefulness. Those who knew him speak highly of his character, and remember him as one who filled all the relations of life in a manly, upright manner. He was a kind husband, a loving father, a friendly neighbor, and many mourned his departure. In him the German Reformed Church found one of its most devoted members. At his death he left an estate comprising eighty eight acres of valuable land, which, under his widow's supervision, is making handsome returns.
John McIntosh, the father of Mrs. Whitmore, was born in this county, August 10, 1825, and was the son of John and Catherine (Donot) McIntosh, natives, respectively, of Scotland and Pennsylvania. The grandfather of Mrs. Whitmore came to Stark County early in the '20s, and located on a farm in the woods of Perry Township, where he died when Mr. McIntosh was a lad in his fourth year. He reared a family of six children, five of whom are still living, viz: Mary, Lydia, John, Hannah and Peter. Elizabeth is deceased.
The father of Mrs. Whitmore was reared to manhood amid the scenes of pioneer life in this county, and remembers the time when wolves and other wild game abounded, and the homes of the scattered populace were in the timber, along the banks of the streams. He received a fair education, and, when attaining his nineteenth years learned the trade of a plasterer, which he followed for some thirty years. By the death of his father, he was thrown upon his own resources when quite young,
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but in the various enterprises which He has followed, has always been successful, and he is today one of the substantial men of Tuscarawas Township.
The lady to whom Mr. McIntosh was married bore the maiden name of Annie Bixler, a daughter of Samuel Bixier, an early settler in Bethlehem Township. To them were granted the following children: Elmira, Frances, Samuel, Sarah A., Amanda, Milton, Corn, Peter and Franklin. After his marriage, Mr. McIntosh made his [ionic for a twelvemonth in Tuscarawas Township, and then, taking up his abode in Bethlehem Township, lived there for a number of years, when he moved to his present farm. He is the possessor of a quarter-section of fine land in this township, which bears all the improvements found upon the place of an enterprising and progressive agriculturist. Politically speaking, he is a sound Democrat, and, in a religious sense, he is equally as sound in the faith of the German Reformed Church, which denomination he has served as Deacon for many years.
ROBERT A. PINN, formerly Junior Vice commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, Department of Ohio, is numbered among the many colored men who did heroic service for the Union during the late war. He was one of the first to offer his services to the Government, but was refused on account of color. Nothing daunted, he went out with the old Nineteenth Ohio Infantry, and in 1862, learning of the movement to organize n company here, returned and joined the Fifth Regiment, and also induced a few of his colored friends to do likewise. He has one of the best war records in the State of Ohio, and is most highly respected wherever known.
In Perry Township, Stark County, Mr. Pinn was born March 1, 1843. His father, it native of Fauquier County, Pa., was born in bondage, and lived with his mother's relatives until eighteen years old, when he ran away from home and came to Steubenville, Ohio, and learned the trade of a blacksmith in that place. About 1822, he came to Canton, where he remained until his marriage ten years later. He then purchased a farm in ferry Township, the old homestead now owned by our subject, and gave his attention to agricultural pursuits until his death in the fall of 1871, aged seventy-five years. He was a man of splendid information, particularly in ancient history, and his retentive memory enabled him to store his mind with an abundance of valuable knowledge. In religious preference, be was a Congregationalist., and was very familiar with the Scriptures. Politically, he was a Republican and an Abolitionist.
The mother of our subject, Zilphia Broxon, was born in Mercer County, Ill., of English descent, and her relatives were large land-owners in the Keystone State. She died in Perry Township, leaving ten children seven of whom grew to mature years. Our subject, who was the sixth in the family was reared on the Lone farm, and when eleven years old commenced to learn the trade of a broom manufacture. In the fall of 1861, as the United States would not then take colored troops, he went out with the Nineteenth Ohio Infantry under the care of Major-Surgeon Hurxthal. He marched South with the regiment, fund when the battle commenced at Shiloh, could not resist the impulac,but seized a,musket and jumped into the thickest of the light. Afterward, he participated in several other engagements, where he was conspicuous for bravery. As soon as colored troops were allowed to enter the service, he enlisted, and as above stated, persuaded some of his friends to do the same.
Mr. Pinn was appointed Sergeant,and later First Sergeant, and in the hatter capacity marched from Norfolk, Va., aund assisted in breaking up a band of guerrillas that infested the swamps of South Virginia and northern North Carolina.. In the spring of 1864, the regiment proceeded to the front of Petersburg and Richmond, where they were constantly on duty. September 29, there occurred the great battles of Chapin's Farm, New Market Heights and Ft. Harrison, and in these three dis-
252 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
tinet engagements of that day the regiment with which Sergeant Pinn was connected played a most important part, and the long rows of the dead showed how fatal was that part as well as prominent. When the sun rose on that day, five hundred and fifty men stood in ranks, and when it went down only two hundred and eight were left to answer the roll call, three hundred and forty-two having fallen by the wayside. Of these nine commissioned officers were wounded, two hundred and forty-eight enlisted men wounded and eighty-five killed.
At the first volley in the morning, the Captain was wounded, and the command fell to Sergeant Pinn, who led the troops through the series of fights that day, although three times wounded himself. The first wound was received in the left thigh; the second wound, which was caused by a shell penetrating the left limb, so disabled him that he could not walk, but he detailed two men to carry him at the head of his company through all the fight. Just before the close of the battle when Ft. Harrison was captured, about five o'clock :,e received a terrible wound in the right shoulder as he was coming over the hill and, with cap in hand,was shouting words of encouragement to his men. He became unconscious, and the men who had carried him to the front laid him on the field in that state.
Although terribly wounded, our subject refused to be discharged, and as soon as he could travel, rejoined his company, and served until the close of the war. For gallant conduct that day, he was awarded two medals, one from Congress and the other from Gen. Butler. Today these medals are more to him than the memory of shoulder straps, which would have been awarded him had he been a white man. He was discharged at Carolina City, September 20, 1865, and returned to Stark County.
After his return, Mr. Pinn engaged in teaming and contracting until the spring of 1874, when he sold his business, and went to Oberlin College, pursuing the course of studies there for four years and employing his leisure hours in reading law with Prof. Thomas. He finished his legal studies at Massillon with R. H, Folger, and was admitted to the Bar in 1879, at once beginning the practice of his profession. He is now actively engaged as an attorney, being United States Pension Attorney, and having charge of all the local pension business here.
In addition to the old homestead, Mr. Pinn owns eighty acres in Tuscarawas Township and a residence at No. 96 Akron Street, in Massillon. He married, in 1867, Miss Emily J. Manzilla, who was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, her demise occurring April 25, 1890. Socially, Mr. Finn is identified with the Masonic fraternity and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a prominent member of Hart Post No. 134. G. A. R., at Massillon, which he has served as Post Commander. In 1888, he was Junior Vice-department commander of Ohio. He takes deep interest in all Grand Army matters, and attends all the National Encampments. He is a strong Republican, and served his party as delegate to the State convention which nominated William McKinley Governor of Ohio.
SAMUEL BOWMAN. Intelligent, thrifty, wide awake farmers form the greater part of the population of Stark County, and among these our subject occupies a creditable position. He is one of the prominent farmers of Pike Township, and was born on his present farm, on section 13, February 18, 1827. Jacob Bowman, his father, was born in Northumberland County, Pa., February 22, 1777, and was of German descent. He came to this section as early as 1816, emigrating hither across the mountains in company with five families. The journey was made with teams and wagons and consumed five weeks. Jacob Bowman first located in Canton Township, two miles cast of the now prosperous city of Canton, where he lived for two years, and then, coming to Pike Township, entered a quarter-section of land from the Government. He rented property until he could make improvements on his own farm, and
PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 253
after erecting a log cabin on the place moved into Indians and wild animals Often proved very troublesome, but as the years passed by and the country became more thickly populated, they gradually disappeared.
The parents of our subject were possessed of that indomitable perseverance that is bound to succeed, .ind when taking up their abode in the new country they worked hard, the father clearing the land and the mother spinning and weaving cloth, from which she made wearing apparel for the family. Jacob Bowman died at his home, when eighty-two years of age. He was an active and devoted member of the Lutheran Church, and donated the land for the church building, to the erection of which he contributed liberally of his means. He was an old-line Whig in politics, and enjoyed a good reputation in business circles, as a man of honesty and uprightness of character.
The maiden name of our subject's mother was Hannah Klinger. She was a native of Pennsylvania and by her union with Mr. Bowman became the mother of the following children: Polly, Sally, Catherine, Lydia, Hannah, John, Henry, Jacob and Samuel. The wife and another died at the age of eighty-eight years and, like her husband, was also a conscientious member of the Lutheran Church.
The original of this sketch made tiro best of his advantages receiving an education and when not busy on the farm attended the district school and conned his lessons on a slab bench, by the light of a greased-paper window. He proved of great assistance in aiding in the development of the farm and remained at home until twenty-two years of age, when he established a fireside of his Own and was married to Elizabeth Brothers, the date thereof being February 25, 1849. Of their union have been born four children: Hiram, Mattie, Levi, and Albert, who died at the age of two years. The wife and mother died in 1857, greatly mourned by her numerous friends and acquaintances.
The lady that Mr. Bowman chose as his second wife was Miss Lucinda Van Meter, of Pike Township. She died in 1870, and the present wife of our subject, prior to their marriage,was Mrs. Ann Anderson, Mr, Bowman formerly owned one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land but has since sold eighty acres to his son and retains the other half for his own use. He carries on mixed farming and makes a specialty of raising fine and coarse wool sheep. The Christian Church, which he has served for many years as Elder, finds in him one of its most substantial and influential members. He affiliates with the Republican puurty in politics, and is greatly interested in the progress of his community. He has served as land Appraiser of Pike Township for two terms and during the incumbency of the office gave satisfaction to all concerned.
COLUMBUS, WALKER. M. D. The physicians of Canton, Ohio are men who compare favorably with those of any of the older cities of the State in point of learning as well as in skill and ability as practitioners; and to entitle their successors to high rank among their professional brethren of the country at large, it only remains for them to sustain the character which already has been given to the profession of this city. Among the busiest of this class of men, who bore the burdens placed upon them by patrons whose respect and confidence they won by their own efforts, is Dr. Walker who has been a successful general practitioner. He was born in Frederick City, Md., June 28; 1826 the fourth of nine children born to Dr. John D. and Catherine E. (Wiest) Walker, both of whom were born in Maryland, in which State they grew to maturity and married. In 1829, they removed to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, where the father at once began practicing medicine, a calling which he continued with success until his death.
The subject of this sketch was but three years of age when brought to this State, and here he passed a rather uneventful boyhood, but had the inestimable advantage of a free, open-air life, with a sufficient amount of healthful occupation. At the age of eighteen years he returned to Maryland,
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where he spent three years. In 1850, he was married to Miss Mary J. Runyon, of Jefferson County, Ohio, daughter of Louis Runyon, soon after which he settled in Summit County, where he was engaged in general farming, and at the same time practiced medicine and dealt in real estate. In 1863, he removed to Stark County, where he followed the sane occupations, was successful and made money rapidly.
Since 1870, he has been a resident of the city of Canton, where he is living a somewhat retired life, in the enjoyment of the large means which he accumulated. He has some valuable relies in his possession, one of which is a compass used by Gen. Washington in surveying lands in Virginia, and winch was later used in surveying the line of the Baltimore & Ohio liailroad, and some articles which once belonged to Henry Clay. He is a pronounced Democrat in politics, and supports the men and measures of that party on all occasions. He always votes intelligently, for he keeps thoroughly posted on all the current topics of the day, and his reasons for his convictions are always clear and well defined.
His career has been a useful and laborious one, and he has the satisfaction of knowing that the property of which he is now possessor has been accumulated through his own shrewd, yet always honorable, business tactics. In the various callings in which he has been engaged, he has displayed an unusual amount of intelligence, and his practical ideas on all subjects are to be admired.
A. F. PORTMANN. Among the successful business men of Massillon, Ohio, who are
of foreign birth, stands A. F. Portmann, who is actively engaged in the house-furnishing
business and also carries a full line of slate, tin and steel roofing. Mr. Portmann was born in the
Canton of Solothurn, Switzerland, on the 16th of January, 1855, and was the fifth in order of
birth of ten children, five sons and five daughters, born to Victor and Mary A (Hug) Portmann,
both natives of Switzerland.
The father followed the occupation of an architect and surveyor, and was a college-bred man. In 1869, he braved Neptune's tender mercies and cattle to America, settling for the first three years in Navarre, Ohio. Later he came to Canton and engaged as a German school teacher for some time. He was a man of an unusually active, bright mind, and was an educator of prominence. He was a devout member-of the Catholic Church, and died in that faith in 1873, when fifty-nine years of age. His wife is still living and is a resident of Canton.
Our subject was reared in Switzerland and attended German school until fourteen years of age. In April, 1869, he left Hanover, Germany, on the steamer,''Zalla," with his parents, and landed with them in New York City fourteen days later. For three years he was in Navarre, Ohio, where he attended school during the winter and assisted in a flour mill during the summer. In 1872, he came to Canton and was apprenticed to learn the tinsmith trade with H. Wernet & Bros., with whom he remained for three years. After finishing his apprenticeship, he worked for this firm for five years, and was then with Ball & Portmann as partner, for one year, in the tin-roofing and jobbing business.
In 1879, he came to Massillon, started the house-furnishing business and was also engaged in manufacturing tinware under the firm name of Wernet & Portmann, with headquarters on West Main Street. There they continued for two years, but the increase in business obliged them to seek more commodious quarters, and they located at Nos. 36 and 38 South Erie Street, where they carry on a flourishing business and are meeting with excellent success. In 1885, Mr. Portmann started the slate, tin and steel roofing business, and now superintends the work. In 1891, he bought his partner out, and has since continued the business alone. He has a large double store, two floors, and has recently built a warehouse, 35 x 38 feet. Erie is the largest establishment of the kind in the city, and twelve hands are employed during the season.
Mr. Portmann has a comfortable home at No. 6l South Street, and this is presided over by his wife,
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who was formerly Miss Louisa Fries, a native of Massillon, Ohio, whom he wedded in 1882. Her father, John Fries, was a native of Germany, and was foreman for Russell & Company for neatly forty years. He is now in Norwalk, Ohio. Mrs. Portmann was reared and educated in her native town and was graduated from the schools here. She afterward taught school here for four years, and in St. Joseph for some time. Three children have been born to Mr. arid Mrs. Portmann and are named as follows: Frank, Howard and Helen. Mr. Portmann is a charter member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association and is a member of St. Mary's Church. In his political views, he is Democratic.
HENRY BOWMAN. Throughout Stark County this gentleman enjoys an enviable reputation as a reliable citizen and upright man. He is a native of this county, having been born on the farm in Sandy Township where he is at present residing, February 5, 1840. John Bowman, his father, was born in Pennsylvania, and came here with his parents when a lad of seven years. He was educated in the pioneer log schoolhouse with its primitive furnishings, and, being an apt pupil, made the best of his limited advantages, and is to-day a well-read and intelligent gentleman, keeping himself thoroughly informed on events of national and local interest.
John Bowman was reared to manhood in his forest home, and when starting out in life, left home and engaged as fireman on a steamboat plying upon the Ohio River. He was only thus employed a short time, however, when he purchased the farm where he is at present residing, and, moving into the log cabin which he had erected, immediately began the arduous work of clearing and developing this property. He was a hard worker and a good manager, and at his death, which occurred in 1886, he left a valuable farm. With his wife, who bore the maiden name of Lydia Whitmer, he was a member of the Lutheran Church. The mother of our subject was a native of Bethlehem Township, this county, and reared a family of eight children, viz.: Sarah, Mary, John, Samuel, henry, Hannah, Eli and Lydia. Lydia, Mary, John and Samuel are deceased, the latter dying while confined in Libby Prison. Mrs. Bowman was in her seventy-seventh year at the time of her death. Her father, Benjamin Whitmer, was one of the pioneers of the above-named township, his nearest neighbor being four miles distant. He developed a good farm from the wilderness and died at an advanced age, greatly respected by all who knew him.
He of whom we write, like other lads in his neighborhood, conned his lessons in the old-fashioned schoolhouse with its slab beaches and rude furnishings. He was thoroughly trained in farm work and remained under the parental roof, assisting his father in performing various kinds of labor, until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he laid aside the implements of peace and enlisted October 12, 1861, in Company K, Fifty-first Ohio Infantry, being mustered in at Camp Meigs. Thence he was sent with his regiment into Kentucky, where they were engaged in skirmishing, after which they went to Nashville, Tenn., and later to the Cumberland Mountains, and from there followed Gen. Bragg through Tennessee and Kentucky to Louisville, where they had several skirmishes. Then still in pursuit of that General with his company, he fought at Perryville, Ky., and later, returning to Nashville, remained there until December 21, 1862, when they were sent to Stone River and fought in that engagement. In that battle, Mr. Bowman was injured by the explosion of a shell. Later, he participated is the battles of Chickamauga, Chattanooga (where the Union forces were surrounded and nearly starved to death) Lookout Mountain and Mission Ridge. His regiment then went into winter quarters at Shell Mound, and in the spring of 1864 participated in the following engagements: Resaca, Buzzard's Roost, Burnt Hickory, Pine Top, Atlanta and .Jonesboro. Later, going to Athens, Ala., their train was wrecked and Mr. Bowman was violently thrown into a blackberry patch and seriously injured in the back.
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On receiving his honorable discharge November 7, 1864, our subject returned home and again resumed his occupation of farmer, at the same time working some the carpenter's trade. His marriage with Miss Elizabeth Farber occurred December 25, 1868. The lady was born just across the line, in Carroll County, and by her union with Mr. Bowman became the mother of five children: John F., Emma F., Franklin P., Maggie M. and Mary A.
The original of this sketch is the proprietor of a quarter-section of excellent land, which he has cleared, and improved with numerous and substantial buildings, together with all the necessary farm machinery. His large frame house was erected in 1886, And his elegant new barn was built in 1881. Besides raising the cereals, he devotes considerable time to stock-raising and has some fine animals on his place, among which is a good breed of trotting horses.
The United Brethren Church finds in Mr. Bowman an active and influential member, and the township in which he resides justly regards him as one of its best citizens. He is a true-blue Republican in politics and in favor of all elevating measures in his community. By close application to the duties which before him, he ranks among the best agriculturists in this section, and is proud of the fact that his possessions are the result of his own persistent industry and good management.
REV. JOHN J. LEBERMAN, the pastor of the Reformed Church of Louisville, Ohio, like many of the excellent citizens of the county, was born in Pennsylvania, his birth occurring in Union Township, Lebanon County, November 29, 1848. His parents, Jacob L. And Harriet (Fake) Leberman, were natives respectively of Bavaria, Germany, and Lebanon County, Ill. The father's birth occurred in 1819, and when about eighteen years of age he came to America to make his fortune. He located in Lebanon County, Pa., and there met and married Miss Fake. He embarked in mercantile pursuits, but later moved to Meadville, Crawford County, Pa., where he made his home for about thirty-two years, or until his death, which occurred December 24, 1891. He was interred at Greendale Cemetery at Meadville, Ill. His wife, who died in 1881, was of German parentage. Of the eight children born to this union, six are still living. The eldest child, David D., was also a minister in the Reformed Church And died at Meadville, Pa. (where he had been pastor of the church for twenty years), on the 31st of December, 1891: he left two sons, Edward O., a physician of Akron; Ohio, and Henry, of St. Louis, Mo. The second child born to Mr. and Mrs. Leberman became Mrs. Leah Lorandi, has three daughters, and resides in Philadelphia. Luther A. resides in Meadville, Pa., and is in the insurance business. he is married and has two daughters and two sons. John J., our subject, comes next. Mrs. Emma Krider resides on a farm near Meadville, Pa., and is the mother of five children. Mrs. Lucinda Ellsworth died near Meadville, Pa., and left three daughters. Henry, who is a grocer in Meadville, has three children; and Mrs. Ellen Reisinger makes her home in Franklin, Venango County, Pa., and has one child.
Rev. John J. Leberman made his home in Lebanon County, Pa., until eleven years of age and secured extra educational Advantages. After leaving the public and High Schools, he began the study of languages, Latin, Greek and German, when sixteen years of age, and still later clerked in a store in Meadville. Afterward he was in the railroad office at Meadville and remained there a year. From an early age, he had manifested a desire for the ministry, became a church member at the age of thirteen and when seventeen years of age took a course in Westmoreland College, in Westmoreland County, Pa., where he remained one year. After this, he went to Tiffin, Ohio, entered the Freshman class of the Heidelberg University, at which he was graduated in 1872, and then took the theological course, finishing in 1873. Afterward he accepted a call as pastor in the Reformed Church at Louisville, Ohio, and here he
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has administered to the wants of his fellow-man for nineteen years. It is apparent that physically he has been generously endowed by nature, and as a result makes a commanding presence in the pulpit. Such endowments, when combined with the earnest and entreating expression of the eye, and his ringing tones of eloquence as he expounds the truths of the Divine Story, contribute materially to the success which follows every sermon. He also strives to have the congregation see that what he says is not a labored production, studied for oratorical effect, but that each word springs from the sincere heart, and that he feels with all enthusiast's power the truth and passion of the Holy Law.
Mr. Leberman was married in Meadville, Pa., on the 11th of Juue, 1873, to Miss Lizzie Lutz, a native of Meadville, born June 1, 1851, And the daughter of Andrew J. and Elizabeth (Dahl) Lutz, both natives of Germany, but early settlers of Meadville, where they were married. This union has been blessed by the birth of eight children, seven of whom are still living and all born in Louisville, Ohio. Agnes Clara, born February 25, 1874, was confirmed at the Age of fourteen, and was graduated at Louisville High School when eighteen years of age; Cora Louisa, born August 19, 1875, was confirmed at the age of fourteen; John Kendig, born March 18, 1877, was confirmed at the age of fourteen; May E., born May 22, 1879, died November 17, 1881; Evaline Ida, born May 28, 1882; Olivia Florence, May 29, 1884; Esther M., October 2, 1889, And Eunice Pauline, August 11, 1891.
Mr. Leberman's church had about ninety members when he came here, and he has seen it grow until it now numbers three hundred and forty members. It is out of debt and owns a good parsonage, In the spring of 1893, the society expects to build a $15,000 church. Our subject has also had charge of the church at Paris for thirteen years, and organized one at Robertsville in 1875 with a membership of twenty-three, leaving it with one hundred and sixty, and a good church and parsonage. The one at Paris has also developed in every way and now has a membership of two hundred and seventy-five and a new church. During his ministrations, there have been one thousand and seven additions to the church by confirmation, baptism and letter. He has baptized eight hundred and ten and has officiated at two hundred and forty-seven marriages, and preached three hundred and sixty-one funeral sermons. He writes for the Christian World, at Dayton, Ohio, and the Missionary Guardian, At Philadelphia, he is the author of a treatise on baptism, published in 1886. It has gone through the first edition and is coming out in a second. The title of D. D. was conferred upon him by his Alma Mater at Tiffin, Ohio, and he has also the degrees of A. B. And A. M. He has been a member of the board of Regents of Heidelberg University for the past ten years and is a member of the Board of Trustees of the theological Seminary at Tiffin. He has also been Treasurer of the Board of Missions for fifteen years and a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Missions of the General Synod. In politics, he was reared a Democrat but is now independent.
CONRAD SCHWEITZER, Treasurer of the People's Savings Bank, Canton, Ohio. A city can have no more institution beneficial than a well-regulated savings bank, for they exert a great influence for good in the promotion of thrift and inducing those of small means to lay aside a provision for the future, which serves for a time of need, and frequently lays the foundation of a substantial fortune. Among the institutions of that character organized and in operation in Canton, is the People's Savings Bank, which is deservedly distinguished as one of the most successful and popular, the wisdom of its management and the safety of its investments commending it to the confidence of the people.
Mr. Schweitzer was born in the city in which he now resides, July 8, 1853, a son of Conrad and Nanette (Kurt) Schweitzer, who were born, reared, educated and married in Switzerland. In 1849, they crossed the stormy Ocean to America, and
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on landing at New York City, they turned their faces in the direction of Canton, Ohio, and after reaching this place at once embarked in the hardware business, which proved a success financially. The father afterward sold his goods to remove to the city of New York, where he became a successful hardware merchant and resided until his death, which occurred in 1873. After the estate had been settled, the widow, with her children, returned to Canton, in 1878, and here their home teas since continued to be.
Conrad Schweitzer was the third of four children, the eldest son born to his parents, and his early days were" spent in Canton and New York City, in the public schools of which places he acquired sufficient education to fit him for a practical business life. This, however, did not satisfy his thirst for knowledge, and he later entered Park Institute on Long Island, where he pursued his studies for two years. At the end of this time, he returned to New York and entered the office of his father, whose able assistant he continued to be until death intervened and he was left fatherless. After settling up the estate, he returned to Canton in 1878, soon after which he entered the office of C. Aultman & Company, and remained with this company for eight years. He next became Treasurer of the Gibbs, Ball Plow Company, holding his connection with this house for two years; later, he became connected with the Democrat Publishing Company, was for a time editor and business manager of the News-Democrat and Stark County Democrat, and is now one of the lending stockholders in the company. in connection with others, he helped to organize the People's Savings Bank, and was made its Secretary and Treasurer. He is recognized as one of the reputable business men of the city, and while he has been eminently successful from a personal standpoint, his views fire broad, so broad that every just and commendable enterprise having in view the material and moral interests of the city and State meets with all the encouragement, financial and otherwise, it is in his power to grant.
Mr. Schweitzer was one of the Directors of the City Water Works, and a member of the Board of Equalization, is one of the City Park Commissioners, and was Chairman of the Democratic County Committee for two years. In 1886, his marriage to Helen Cook, a daughter of George Cook, a pioneer manufacturer of this place, who was for many years connected with C. Aultman & Company, was celebrated. To them three interesting children leave been born. They have a handsome residence surrounded by beautiful grounds at No. 87 Myers Avenue.
LEWIS J. WISE. Time has dealt kindly with this gentleman and his wife and enabled them to lay aside the labors they bore in former years, and settle down to the enjoyment of the physical comfort and social pleasures their adequate means and good tastes make possible and agreeable. After years of industrious and well-directed efforts, they are now living in retirement on a portion of their old farm in Canton Township. They have an extended acquaintance, and have long been known as among the best representatives of the agricultural class in the township. The estate, which is n very valuable one, is under the direct supervision of their son, Newton F., who is in every way capable of its management.
Our subject, who is one of the oldest and wealthiest residents of Stark County, is a native of this county, having been born here March 26, 1827, and is the son of Adam Wise, who was born in Washington County, Pa. The grandfather of our subject, who was a farmer in the above-named State, lived there, and died at a good old age. Adam Wise, who also followed agricultural pursuits, came to this State about 1800, and with his family located in the northeastern part of Plain Township, this county. There he purchased a quarter-section of land, which he developed, and later erected a gristmill on Nimishillen Creek, and was one of the first to engage in that line of work in the county. He was very successful in business affairs and was also the owner of a card-
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ing factory and a sawmill. In connection with these varied interests, he conducted a dry-goods store for many years. he was one of those whose financial success makes them but the more anxious to aid in public enterprises, and whose gratitude for their personal success is shown in their interest in the general welfare. As a man of honor, he enjoyed the confidence of the community in a high degree. He was strictly a man of business, and died at his home in Canton, where he was living retired from active life, at the age of sixty-six years. In his successful career as a business man, he showed himself to be energetic, industrious, shrewd and far-seeing, using his influence not only to advance his material prosperity, but to elevate the social and moral status of his community.
The lady whom Adam Wise married was Miss Plebe Stockton, a native of Pennsylvania. By their union were born nine children: Aaron S., Hiram R., Rebecca, Mary A., Lewis J., Elizabeth A., Hannah J., Loretta S. and Phoebe. The mother, who was one of the members of the Presbyterian Church, died in her fifty-fifth year. The father of our subject was prominently connected with the Baptist Church in religious affairs, and, politically, cast his vote with the Republican party.
Our subject received his education in the district schools kept in the old log schoolhouse, and it has been his constant aim since arriving at years of discretion to keep up with the times in his knowledge of current events and topics of general interest. Being reared to farm pursuits, when ready to start out in life on his own account, young Wise purchased his present farm, on which he has made all the substantial improvements.
In 1849, hie of whom we write and Miss Susan Gans were united in marriage. The lady, who was a native of this county, bore her husband three children, of whom Oliver and Susan are still living, and died in 1853. The lady whom Mr. Wise chose as his second wife was Miss Susan Fisher, their marriage being celebrated in 1858. To them was granted a family of eight children, of whom the following seven are living: Ellen, William, Newton, Edwin, Emma, Bertha and Homer.
Our subject was actively engaged in farming until 1888, when through strict attention to business and by hard and unremitting labor, he acquired a handsome fortune, and is now living retired in the handsome frame residence which he erected on a corner of his farm in 1890. His estate is one of the most desirable in point of improvement and cultivation to be found in this portion of the Slate, and is devoted to raising grain and dairying. As before stated, it is under the direct management of one of his sons, who has been trained by his worthy father to follow in his footsteps, and is now one of the promising and enterprising young men of the county, who is bound to make his mark in the world.
Mr. and Mrs. Wise are devoted members of the Baptist Church, with which denomination they have been connected for many years. Originally a Republican in politics, our subject feels that he has had sufficient cause to change his sentiments and is now a stanch worker in the ranks of the Prohibition party. In the midst of his various business engagements he has found time to take the part usual to a public-spirited citizen in enterprises that work for the general good. he has served for many years as a member of the School Board, and in his younger days took a great interest in local affairs. His farm comprises one hundred and sixty-six acres, in addition to which he has platted fifty-four lots in the city, of Canton. He keeps on the place from twenty-five to thirty much cows, from which branch of industry is reaped a handsome profit. His superior financial ability has given him a position among the most substantial men of the county and his straightforward conduct has won the esteem and confidence of all.
CORNELIUS W. FAUST. During the early days of the settlement of the United States, but little attention was devoted to the cultivation of the beautiful in nature and art. Our sturdy forefathers were principally engaged in combats with savage foes and the no less savage
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beasts of the forest, and amid countless obstacles, broke the virgin soil, planted the first seed and gathered the first crops into their small granaries. With the passing years came the introduction of au increasing amount of that which makes life a pleasure. and in no direction is this more noticeable than in the cultivation of fruits and flowers.
Probably the most extensive florist and plant grower in Eastern Ohio is the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, and whose greenhouses are located on the Georgetown Road, one-half mile east of Canton. Here may be found every variety of cut flowers, as well as vegetables and all kinds of fruits. The passing stranger invariably pauses to notice and admire the place, and a single glance convinces him that the proprietor is a man of thrift and refined tastes.
Mr. Faust was born upon the homestead which he now occupies, February 10, 1854, and is the son of Cornelius and Martha E. (Stock) Faust, natives, respectively, of Ohio and Pennsylvania. The grandfather of our subject, Benjamin Faust, was born in the Keystone State and was a pioneer of Stark County, where he died on his farm near Canton. he was the founder of the German Reformed Church at Canton, and the first minister at of that denomination in the place. He was a man of great industry and at his death left a comfortable property, entirely free from encumbrance.
The eldest son of Benjamin Faust was Cornelius, who was reared to manhood in Stark County. A tiller of the soil from his boyhood, he has always applied himself diligently to his farming pursuits, and has preferred the seclusion of his home to the excitement of political life, hence has never aspired to official honors. Of his seven children, our subject is the eldest surviving son. His youth was passed in a comparatively uneventful manner on his father's farm, and while attending school he experimented in his present business. He is one of the pioneer growers in small fruits in this section of country, and has been in the business for twenty-six years.
During the last twelve years, Mr. Faust has expended about $8,000 in improvements, and his place of business is modern and well equipped. The gardens include twenty acres of land, and an independent water system is practiced, and controlled by a wind-mill. Henceforth Mr. Faust's entire attention will be given to the cultivation of flowers, and landscape gardening in all its phases. A man of energy, ambition find perseverance, it is not strange that Mr. Faust has met with success in his undertakings and has made of his business a science. Aside from his private affairs, he maintains a deep interest in the welfare of Canton, and is ready to promote its interests by any means in his power. he is a stanch Republican and a member of the Republican Executive Committee. In his social connections, he is identified with the Order of American Mechanics. His pleasant home is presided over by his wife, formerly Henrietta Niesz, daughter of William Niesz. The one sorrow of their otherwise happy wedded life was the death of their only son, William, who passed away at the age of seven months and two days.
REV. CHRISTIAN CHRISTIANSEN, pastor of St John's Evangelical Church, Massillon, Ohio, is another of the many prominent citizens of the county who claim Germany as their native country, his birth occurring near Bredtstedt, Schleswig-Holstein, on the 1st of January, 1862. His father, Peter Christiansen, and his grandfather, Peter Christiansen, Sr., were also natives of the same vicinity. The latter was at one time a successful farmer, but met with reverses, so that his son Peter at an early age was obliged to work hard to assist the family. Peter Christiansen, Jr., was married in his native country to Miss Anna M. Kruse, also a native of Germany, and after the birth of their five children, or in 1869, he and family crossed the ocean to America. This was early in the spring, and on the 2d of February of that year, they came to Genoa, Ottawa County, Ohio, where they remained the balance of the winter. From there they removed to Wood County, where Mr. Christiansen was employed as a lumberman. In addition he also
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carried on farming, and later located on twenty acres of land, where he made his home until he resided with our subject. He is still living and is seventy-one years of age. His wife was over seventy years of age at the time of her death. Five children were born to this worthy couple, four of whom reached nature years, and three are now living, as follows: Mathias J., who resides in Oak Harbor, Ohio, engaged in farming; Henry, engaged in farming in Wood County; Matilda, who died when seven years of age; John F., who died when twenty-three years of age; and our subject.
The original of this notice remained in his native country until seven years of age, and from the age of five until then he attended the schools there. After reaching this country, he attended the English schools, off and on, until nine years of age, when he was set to work. Although he worked hard during the day time, the evening generally found him poring over his lessons, arithmetic especially. When, fourteen years of age, he attended the public schools during the winter for a short. time, and the fourth winter was allowed to attend Bowling Green High School, where he reunified until the fall of 1881. He then entered the college at Elmhurst, Ill., in the Sophomore class and was graduated at that institution in 1884. A desire to enter the ministry then took possession of him, and he attended the German Evangelical Theological Seminary, near St. Louis, Mo., and was graduated in 1887. He was ordained the same year at Elyria, Ohio, and in 1887 was called to Loudonville, Ohio, where he labored for three years and eight months.
On the 14th of April, 1891, hie came to Massillon as pastor of St. John's, the oldest German society here, having been established for over fifty years, and is now conducting a successful pastorate in this town. Personally, Mr. Christiansen has a frank, pleasing countenance, and a personal magnetism that draws his congregation to him. His delivery is careful and finished, and there is a real depth of thought in the sermons which he preaches. Mr. Christiansen was married in Monroe County, Ohio, at Switzer, on the 26th of March, 1890, to Miss Charlotte Zesiger, a native of that place, when, she was reared and educated. She is a lady possessed of more than the average intelligence, and excelled in music and penmanship, and was an expert dress-maker. One child has blessed this union, Martha E. Since his residence in Massillon, Mr. Christiansen has reorganized the Ladies' Society and also started a Young People's Society. He also started English services, preaching in both German and English, and started all English department in the Sunday-school. In politics, he is a Democrat. While at college, he was President of the Literary Society for one year and helped to organize it.
JACOB A. MEESE is a farmer whose tract of land is located on section 34 and comprises eighty acres, and although this farm is small, it is well tilled and yields a good annual income Mr. Meese was born to Washington Township, Stark County, on the 23d of July, 1835, to Daniel and Sarah (Aultman) Meese, the former of whom was born and reared to Columbiana County, was married . in Canton, and located in Washington Township, of this county, where he became the owner of a fertile farm, on which he lived for a number of years. His father, Christian Meese, was a native of Pennsylvania, but came to Ohio, where he carried on farming, to which occupation he reared his sons. After residing for about twenty years in Nimishillen Township, Daniel Meese removed to Louisville, where he was called from life. He is buried in the Salem Cemetery, in Washington Township, where his wife is also sleeping her last sleep, her death having occurred in 1865.
Jacob A. Meese was the second of nine children born to his parents, six of whom grew to maturity, and four of whom are living. Two reside in Coldwater, Mich., and two in Stark County, Ohio. Mr. Meese's father was a self-made man, but received very meagre educational advantages in his youth, but he improved himself in later years to a great extent by self-application. Although a Democrat
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in early life, he afterward became a Republican, and took an active interest in politics, but was in no sense of the word an office, seeker, although he held a number of minor township offices. He was an earnest Christian, and was a member in good standing of the Evangelical Church.
While under the parental roof, Jacob A. Meese was drilled well in the duties pertaining to farming, nor was his education neglected, for he was given the advantages of the common schools, and, unlike many boys, improved his time while there. He began to do for himself at the age of twenty-four years, having given his father the benefit of his services until that time, and on the 22d of July, 1858, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza J. Hawkins, of Washington Township, but who first saw the light of day in Columbiana County, March 27, 1841, of which section her father, William Hawkins, was also a native, although her mother, Eliza Hawkins, was born in Pennsylvania. The latter died in April, 1841, but her husband still survives her and is a resident of Columbiana County. Mrs. Meese was the youngest of their three children, and is the only one now living.
After his marriage, Mr. Meese was given a tract of land by his father, comprising fifty-two acres in Washington Township, and on this farm he tilled the soil until 1872, when he made all additional purchase of twenty acres, all of which he sold at a later period to purchase his father's farm of one hundred acres. He now has a fine farm of one hundred and sixty-two acres, which is well improved by excellent farm buildings line many fruit and ornamental trees. He has tiled his farm and it is now considered one of the most beautiful and valuable farms in his section of Stark County. Everything about his place is in perfect harmony, and each nook and cranny of fields, fences and buildings is well-kept, neat and attractive, speaking well for the good judgment of the owner, as well its for his artistic taste.
Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Meese: Walter, born in Washington Township March 29, 1860, was married October 20, 1881, to Miss Julia Vernier, of Nimishillen Township, by whom he has one child, Harvey, born in February, 1884; Sarah, born in Washington Township, October 31, 1861, was married to Elmer Frederick, September 15, 1881, and has three children, Myrtle, Harry find Clarence; Nora, born May 24, 1864, was married to John Shaffer, February 8, 1883, and has one child, Emmet, born in July, 1884; Oliver born September 30, 1866, died September 7, 1879; Catherine, born May 22, 1870, married Peter A. Chenot, December 25, 1888, and is the mother of one child, Pearl, born July 22, 1891; John, born November 16, 1872, and William R., born August 18, 1879, who are now at home.
Mr. Meese is a Republican of the stanchest kind, and his first vote was cast for John C. Fremont, the "Pathfinder." He has never been an Office seeker, and much prefers the quiet life of a farmer to the contention and bustle of political life. He quietly "pursues the even tenor of his way," and this is indicated by the admirable condition in which his farm is at all times kept. He and his amiable wife are members of the Evangelical Church at Good Hope, in which he has been Class leader and exhorter.
The father of our subject was engaged in making spinning-wheels, and the mother operated one for a few years.
JOSEPH K. RUSSELL, Vice-president and Superintendent of the lumber department of Russell & Co., of Massillon, was born at Alstead, Cheshire County, N. H., June 26, 1823. The family of which he is a member is of Scotch-English descent, and was represented in America at an early day. The grandfather of our subject, likewise known as Joseph, was born January 5, 1745, in Weston, Mass., and was a merchant, hotel-keeper and farmer at Weston, fourteen miles from Boston. late in life, he removed to New Hampshire, were he died at an advanced age.
The father of our subject, Cyrus Russell, was born in Weston, Middlesex County, Mass., December 17, 1784, whence in 1820 he removed to New
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Hampshire and purchased a farm in Alstead, Cheshire County. This e improved and operated until 1829, when he removed to Sutton, Caledonia County, Vt. He continued farming on that place until e retired from active labor, and went to live with a daughter at Thompson, Conn., were he died at the age of eighty-eight years. In politics, he was first a Whig, and later a Republican, and while a resident of Massachusetts served as a soldier in the War of 1812.
The mother of our subject was Louisa, daughter of Isaac Stratton, an agriculturist of Lincoln, Mass., were she was born. Her death occurred at the age of eighty-four. The family consisted of eight sons and three daughters, and at this writing (1892), six survive. Joseph K., the seventh in order of birth, was a Ind of six years wen he accompanied his parents to Vermont, the journey being made with team and wagon. The family settled in a primitive log cabin. The lad was early set to work, and was accustomed to swing the scythe and sickle in the harvest fields, and hind the crops, little thinking that he would some future day be the manufacturer of reapers, etc., to save that labor. During two months of each year, he was allowed to attend the district school, held in log houses furnished with slab benches for seats.
in 1842, Mr. Russell came to Massillon, where he was apprenticed to C. M. Russell & Co. The firm had only recently organized as contractors, builders and manufacturers, and with then e remained for three years, wen, on account of ill-health, he returned to his native county. At Harrisville, that county, he entered his father-in-law's woolen mills, learning the trade step by step, until he became overseer of the weaving department, and while there, worked on one of the first power-looms ever operated in New England.
Returning to Massillon in 1863, Mr. Russell purchased an interest in the N. S. & C. Russell Manufacturing Works, on January 1 of the following year, at which time the firm changed to Russell & Co. This prominent manufactory was established January l, 1842, end is, therefore, the oldest agricultural implement house in Stark County. At the date shove mentioned, Charles M., Nahum S. and Clement Russell, three brothers, formed a partnership under the firm name of C. M. Russell & Co. The capital was limited, but their fund of perseverance and good judgment was unlimited, hence success was won. C. M. Russell had examined the Pitt's Thresher, of Buffalo, and believing he could improve upon it, set about the task, and was so successful in his endeavor that his improved machine vanquished the original at the Ohio State Fair in 1845. This encouraged, the new firm pushed ahead with fair progress, and continued to improve their "Massillon Thresher," until it distanced all its competitors.
The firm was prominent in the building of the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago Railroad in 1851, as they needed an outlet with quick aid cheap freight for their products. C. M. Russell was one of the first Directors, and served in that capacity until his death in 1860. After his decease, the style of the firm changed to N. S. &. C. Russell, and in 1864, Joseph K., Thomas H., and George L., brothers, purchased interests, and the firm was ten changed to Russell & Co., which is the present title. In 1865, W. K. Miller and Thomas ii. Williams were admitted to the firm, the former gentleman being the patentee of the " Peerless" mower and reaper, which were manufactured by his firm until 1871, wen it was sold to C. Russell & Co., of Canton, and its production transferred to that city.
During 1868, Mr. Williams retired from the company, and three years afterward, Allen A. Russell, the younger brother, was added to the firm, also A. R. Rawson, a nephew. Mr. Rawson died in 1875, and his interest reverted to J. W. McClymonds. January 1, 1878, Clement Russell, one of the founders, withdrew from the firm, after thirty-six years of active connection therewith. Prior to 1865, the shops were located on Erie Street, between Tremont and South, but the business having outgrown the accommodations, the firm purchased twenty acres south of the railroad, and erected the main structures of the present substantial plant.
May 17, 1878, fire destroyed all the iron-working machinery. The entire south wing and one-half of the Eric Street front were in ruins, while the
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entire stock of patterns, valued at $75,000, and as much morn valuable machinery, were completely destroyed. The amount of insurance realized was $60,000. The firm at once rebuilt and now have commodious quarters for their constantly increasing business. In the fall of 1878, Russell & Co. were incorporated under the State laws, with a capital stock of $1,000,000.
The firm has branch offices At Milwaukee, Council Bluffs, St. feat, Dallas, Atlanta, Indianapolis. Portland, Lexington, and other places. The leading product was formerly the "Massillon Thresher." The "New Massillon Thresher" is to-day the most successful thresher in America, its success having been beyond precedent. Its superiority was not only in its adaptability to all kinds of grain and seed, but in the quality and quantity of work performed. The firm also make a specialty of their portable farm engine, with traction attachment. They were the first of the large manufacturers to introduce steam threshing, an indication of the enterprising and progressive spirit of this establishment. Their engines are built of the best material and have proved a success.
The manufactures of Russell & Co. find a ready market All over the United States, And have been introduced into Germany, Russia, South America, Australia, New Zealand, and other foreign countries. The officers of the company are: J. W. McClymonds, President and Treasurer; Joseph K. Russell, Vice-president and Superintendent of the Lumber Department; C. M. Russell, Secretary. Under the supervision of the heads of the various departments, a force numbering seven hundred in the busy season is employed. In addition to what hag been Above mentioned, the firm makes a specialty of automatic engines of the finest grade, and also rues the electric light plant.
In 1883, Mr. Russell built his beautiful residence on the corner of Main and Third Streets, where he still resides. His first marriage took place in Harrisville, N. H., and united him with Lucretia J., daughter of Milan Harris, oe of the pioneer woolen manufacturers of New England. They became the parents of five children, sanely: Vinet S.; Charles M., Secretary of Russell & Co.; Mary F., Louisa J., and Jessie L., who are at home. Mr. Russell was a second time married, in 1876, this time to Mrs. Lydia H. Harris, who was born in Nelson, N. H., the daughter of Oliver Heald. She died in February, 1888. In December, 1890, he was married to Mrs. Harriet W. Ballard, daughter of Dr. Perkins Wallace, of Canton, Ohio.
JACOB B. WENDL1NG, formerly one of the enterprising farmers of Stark County, had a pleasantly located farm on section 13, Tucarawas Township. Beginning with a small amount of land, by a steady and honorable course in life, he came into the possession of a good estate comprising one hundred and seventy-nine acres of land. The situation of this tract was not the only reason for its value, but the manner in which it was improved and the use to which it was put added greatly to its worth.
Our subject was the son of Adam and Christina (Held) Wendling, and was born in this county, December 24, 1833. His parents, who were natives of Germany, emigrated to the New World in 1833, and coming immediately to this county were classed among its well-to-do citizens and old settlers. Jacob B. of this sketch obtained his first schooling in his native township, And to the instruction there received he added a fund of information acquired by reading And contact with mankind. when old enough to start out in life on his own responsibility, he learned the trade of a saddler find harness-maker, and when mastering that line of work went into business for himself at Massillon, where he was successfully engaged until 1864. At the end of that time, he disposed of his interests in that city and located upon a farm.
The lady who presides with ability over the late home of our subject became his wife February 3, 1863, prior to which time she was known as Miss Margaret Brechbill. She was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., April 10, 1827, and is the daughter of John And Nancy (Brinker) Brechbill, who were also born in the Keystone State. She
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made her advent into this county in company with her brother Jacob, and here met and married our subject. By their union were born three children: Nancy J., Mrs. S. V. Roush; Mary C. and Jacob J. In his political preferences, Mr. Wendling was a Republican, and a member in good standing of the Lutheran Church, which he served its Elder for many years.
Socially, he of whom we write was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. His death occurred December 24, 1887, and in him the county lost one of her progressive and enterprising citizens. he was a thrifty and wide-awake agriculturist, and had a good knowledge of his calling, which placed him among the well-to-do citizens of his native township, whose interests he materially advanced while prosecuting his vocation.
JOHN B. SHILLING. The most conspicuous figure in the southwestern part of Stark County is the above-named gentleman, who is always to be found giving his countenance and support to that which pertains to the improvement of this section and the advancement of its people. So straightforward has been his life, so honorable his dealings with all, and so marked his interest in, And energetic his work for, the best that life affords, that even his enemies have nothing to say against him. Besides tilling the soil, he is engaged in stock-raising, and keeps on his place animals of the best breeds.
A native of this county, our subject was born, January 23, 1837, to John and Barbara (Bughman) Shilling, the father being a native of Pennsylvania and of Dutch descent, while the mother, who also was born in the Keystone State, is of German ancestry. John Shilling, the father of our subject, came with his family in 1819 to this county, and took up his Abode in it log cabin on an uncultivated tract of land in Tuscarawas Township. He passed through all the hardships to which early settlers were subjected, and there continued his labors with a satisfactory degree of success until his decease, September 3, 1876. He kept himself well informed regarding local affairs, and showed a genuine interest in the progress of the section, and was likewise well posted on topics of current events.
The parental family, which included seven children, now numbers only three, who are named respectively: Abraham; Eliza, Mrs. Benjamin Krider; and John B. Our subject received a limited education in the district schools, and has indeed been the architect of his own fortunes, And the comforts which he now enjoys and the advantages he has been able to bestow upon his children have been gained by hard work And good management. He has always followed farming pursuits, and at the present time has one of the best farms in the township. At whatever walk in life he is found, he shows the qualities of true manhood, and has done what he could to elevate the status of the community, mentally, morally and spiritually.
The lady to whom Mr. Shilling was married November 13, 1862, was Miss Melissa, daughter of Joseph Hassler, and to them has been born a family of nine children, viz: Charles, Wilbert C., William C., Arthur D., Edith, Daisy, Albert, Glendora and Anna, M. He of whom we write owns eighty acres of land, which his energy has placed under excellent cultivation and from which he reaps a handsome income. In exercising the right of suffrage, he staunchly supports the candidates of the Democratic party, as did also his father before him. He has served as School Director of his district, has been Constable and has held the office of Trustee of Tuscarawas Township for two years. His good wife, with whom he has lived for thirty years, is a member of the Reformed Church, And is highly esteemed for her personal character.
Joseph Hassler the father of Mrs. Shilling, was born July 16, 1816, in Franklin County, Pa., and was the son of Joseph and Mary (Stump) Hassler. In 1839, he emigrated from his native State to Ohio, making the trip overland on horseback in seven days. He was married on the 25th of April of that year to Miss Charlotte Poorman, who was
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also a native of Franklin County, Pa., her natal day being May 12, 1821. She was the daughter of Peter and Mary (Richard) Poorman, and was brought by her parents, when about six years of age, to this country. Her father located with the family in Tuscarawas Township, making their home for a number of years in a rude log cabin.
The parental family of Mrs. Shilling included twelve children, of whom eleven are living, namely: Mary, Mrs. Charles Tinkler; Mrs. Shilling; John; Hadessa, Mrs. Dallas Oberlin; Lucinda, the wife of William Lebers; Anson, who is pastor of a Presbyterian Church in New York; Allie, Mrs. Calvin McDowell; Ida, the wife of the Rev. Silas Muse; Lottie, Mrs. Albert Oberlin; Emma, Mrs. Ira Oberlin; and Corn, Mrs. Harry Hoffinger. Eliza is deceased. Mr. Hassler occupied a high position in local affairs, find served as School Director for some time. He was one of the pillars in the Reformed German Church, and departed this life March 24, 1875. He was one of the representative pioneers of the township, and as such enjoyed the respect and confidence of many acquaintances, particularly of those who shared with him the primitive labors of years past.
GEORGE S. BROWN. Among those who are, gaining a good maintenance by tilling the soil in Stark County is Mr. Brown, whose location is in Perry Township. He has there a farm of seventy-eight and one-half acres, upon which he has erected a good dwelling, barns and other structures, and, in fact, has made the property what it is today, a comfortable home and the source of a good income. Mr. Brown is engaged in general farming, and in carrying on his work he displays good judgment, being sufficiently progressive to experiment somewhat in modern theories and to abandon the old rut when new ideas are shown to be advisable, but not allowing his desire for advancement to carry him away.
Like many of the best residents of this section, our subject is a native of Stark County, having been born in Perry Township, May 27, 1840. His parents, Solomon and Elizabeth (Hines) Brown, were born in Pennsylvania, whence they emigrated to this county in 1825, making their first location in Clinton Township. In the '30s they made their advent into this township, and located on an unimproved tract of land on section 25. where they endured all the hardships incident to opening up :r new country. The land which the father purchased did not have a furrow turned on it, but with characteristic energy he began clearing it, and his sturdy blows soon felled the timber and let in the sunlight upon acre after acre, while after the harvest season rolled around, abundant crops were garnered as the result of his industry.
The following live children are the surviving members of the parental family of seven: Sarah, Maria (Mrs. A. Spohnhaer), Harriet, Rebecca, and George S. The father of these children died August 9, 1891, and in his death Stark County lost one of its respected citizens. In his political relations, Solomon Brown was in early life a Whig, but on the organization of the Republican party, joined its ranks. His good wife, who aided him greatly in attaining a good position among his fellow-men, preceded him to the better land, dying in 1865.
George S. Brown of this sketch was reared amid the pioneer scenes of his native county, and has a clear recollection of the primitive modes of living and of the appearance of the wild, sparsely settled country before it had been developed to its present condition. he attended the pioneer schools of his township as soon as old enough to be of service, and aided his father in carrying on the home farm. His wife, prior to her marriage, was Miss Elvira Spangler, and the date of their union was February 25, 1862. Mrs. Brown was the daughter of John and Sarah Spangler, of Massillon, and of their union were born five children, viz.: Lincoln, Edwin H., Nettie, Henry J. and George.
In his political relations, Mr. Brown votes for Republican candidates, and for a number of years has served as a member of the School Board. With his wife, he is identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church at Canton. As a man of intelligence, he keeps himself informed regarding matters that
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pertain to the welfare of mankind, the growth of the Nation, and the interest of the community of which he forms a part. He is respected as a good citizen and neighbor, an honorable man and a first-class farmer.
DAVID LEVERS, Sr. Among the farmers of Stark County few have shown greater enterprise than David Levers, who is pleasantly located on, section 11, Tuscarawas Township. Here he has one hundred acres of land, all under cultivation and brought to its present condition by his own efforts, as he has not only made the more noticeable improvements, but did mich of the clearing and fencing. He has a well-built residence, substantial barn and every necessary arrangement for cat tying on his work in a first-class manner. The acquisition of this property is a standing monument to the industry and good judgment of a man who began his work in the world without means, and who has now accumulated a comfortable competence.
Mr. Levers is a native of the Keystone State, having been born in Lancaster County, January 29, 1817, to William and Elizabeth (Light) Levers, also natives of Pennsylvania. The paternal grandfather of our subject was a native of Switzerland. David of this sketch was taken by his parents on their removal to Franklin County, the same State, when four or five years old, and there he was educated in the district schools near his home. Being trained to farm pursuits, he naturally chose farming for his vocation in life, and upon migrating to Stark County in 1838 he worked for one season as a farm hand.
September 28, 1838, Mr. Levers married Miss Mary Kaylor, who was born in Franklin County, Pa., and of the family of children born to then the following survive: Mary A., Mrs. O. B. Culler, whose sketch appears on another page in this book; Tean, Mrs. William Speck; William; Rosa B., the wife of James Stansbury; Lodema, Mrs. Henry Shafer; David, John; Ida, the widow of Luther Brain; and Ada, Mrs. J. O. Oberlin. For some time after coming hither, our subject farmed as a renter, but being industrious and economical, he saved it sum sufficient to purchase his present property, upon which he has made improvements which place it in the front rank among the farms in the township.
The lady who had been the companion and helpmate of Mr. Levers for many years, and to whom he owes in a large measure his present assured position in the community, departed this life at her home, October 10, 1885. She was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church, and was active in all good works in her neighborhood. Our subject holds membership in the German Reformed Church. In politics, he is an earnest supporter of the Prohibition party, and in him the temperance cause hinds a stanch advocate, one who has aided greatly in its furtherance in, this section. He has served as School Director and has done all in his power not only to promote the cause of education, but to advance other interests in his adopted township.
JOHN W. CAMERON. There are few branches of industrial art toward the development of
Which such increasing efforts have been for several years past directed as that which lilts for its
immediate object the artistic decoration of our homes and general surroundings. Among the
most talented and deservedly success ful of the many painters doing business in Massillon, a
prominent position, most be assigned to Mr. John W. Cameron, whose establishment is located
at the corner of the alley between Main and Plum Streets. He was born in Massillon, August 18,
1852, and here he has passed the principal part of his life. He was one of live children born to
William and Caroline (Edwards) Cameron, both natives of the Buckeye State, the father being
272 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
born in Massillon and the mother in Dalton. Grandfather Cameron was a native of Scotland, and at an early date came to Pennsylvania, where he was married. At a very early date, he removed to Ohio, settled in Massillon, and erected a house on the West Side. Here he passed the remainder of his days engaged in his trade, that of a carpenter. Our subject's maternal grandparents were Eastern people.
William Cameron, father of our subject, was a painter by trade and was foreman for Russell & Co. for many years, but afterward engaged in the business alone. During the late unpleasantness between the North and South, he first enlisted for three months, but the quota was filled heforehe could get oat. In May, 1861, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio National Guards, Company A, and served until mustered out in September, 1864, as Sergeant. After this, he returned and worked as foreman in Russell & Co.'s shop. On the 14th of April, 1865, while celebrating Lee's surrender and during a sham battle, he was accidentally killed. Mr. Cameron was only thirty-eight or nine years of age at that time. His wife is still living and resides in the city of Massillon. All their children are living.
The immediate subject of this sketch began working at the painter's trade at the age of ten years and followed this for two seasons, or until the death of his fatter, when he entered the employ of Russell & Co. He was in the paint shop of this company, off and on, until 1873, and when older did the stripping of the machines. Later he took charge of the stripping department at the Excelsior Agricultural Works, and was thus en. gaged for four years, or until the fall of 1877 when he was employed by Ogden in his furniture and undertaking rooms. In 1884, he commences business here with Russell & Co., and in 1887, hu branched out for himself as contracting sign an( house painter. He makes a specialty of sign wok and is one of the finest house painters in thi city. He employs from seven to eight men an( does a very large contracting business.
Mr. Cameron has a comfortable and pleasant home at No. 167 Clay Street, and this is presided over by his estimable wife, who was formerly Miss Isabelle Hinder, a native of Massillon, Ohio, whom he married in 1876. Seven children have blessed this union, as follows: William, Maude, Charles, Blain L. and Chester C; Harry and Sadie May, who are deceased. Mr. Cameron is a member of the City Council from the Third Ward, and has served as Chairman of the committees on Streets and Alleys, Paving and Grading, Printing, and the Fire Department, and was on the Sewer Committee and on the Prison and Police Committee. During 1886, he was Assessor of the Third Ward. Socially, he is a member of Perry Lodge No 87, K. of P.; Past Chancellor and Captain of the Uniform Rank of Knights of Pythias, and he is a member of Samuel Beatty Council No. 15, A. O. U. W., and a member of Massillon Protective Home Circle No. 31. He is Past Commander of the Sons of Veterans, and was a charter member of the same. In politics, he is a strong advocate of the platform of the Republican party, and has been a delegate to county conventions. he served eight years in the Hose Company of the Fire Department, and was a charter member of the Independent Hose Company, of which he was Assistant Foreman.
LEVI I. SMITH. The life of a farmer may be devoid of stirring events, but it is not the less a field in which to exercise good business ability, fine judgment and sterling traits of personal character. The man who can gain a large tract of land in the well-settled sections of our country must necessarily possess qualifications equal to those displayed by a business man in our towns, although differing in kind. The gentleman above named has been prospered in his efforts in life and owns a considerable amount of land in Canton Township. On section 18 he has erected a large brick residence, which is conveniently arranged and handsomely furnished. The dwelling is accompanied by adequate and substantial out. buildings, and the land surrounding it has been
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brought to a good position as regards its cultivation and productiveness.
The natal day of our subject was January 19, 1837, and his birthplace section 8, of this township. He is a son of Samuel Smith, who was born on the same farm in 1811. His mother, who bore the maiden name of Catherine Stump, was also a native of this county, her birth occurring in Perry Township, July 9, 1809. Grandfather Frederick Stump was of German descent, and a native of Lancaster County, Pa. His good wife, who prior to her marriage was a Miss Schmidt, was also of German parentage. In 1809, the grandfather came to Perry Township, this county, where he entered a tract of land, which he cleared and placed under excellent cultivation. he was very successful, and at one time owned a large estate, of great value, but being unfortunate in some of his investments, lost the entire amount.
Samuel Smith received his first schooling in the old-fashioned log house with its slab ffoor and seats, and a writing-desk made by laying boards on plus driven into the wail. This rude structure was later replaced by a frame schoolhouse, which was a decided improvement on the first temple of learning. When attaining mature years, he was engaged in merchandising in connection with his brother-in-law, Daniel Stump, in what is now the city of Rochester, and with the exception of two years thus spent, he was always engaged in farming pursuits. He enjoyed the respect of his fellowmen as one who had demonstrated his ability in worldly affairs, and whose personal character was worthy of commendation. he left a good estate at his death, which occurred in 1869, He was an active member of the Lutheran Church, and was in every way worthy of the consideration in which he was held. In his political views, he was a decided Democrat. His wife, who departed this life in 1890, bad attained to the advanced age of eighty-one years.
He of whom we write was reared to a practical knowledge of farms life, and aided his father greatly in clearing up and cultivating the farm, which was entirely unimproved when it came into his possession. His early educational privileges were limited to the district school, but the system of affairs in his native State ensured the good practical foundation which must always be obtained outside the schoolroom. When nineteen years of age, young Smith attended school in Canton, where he received a good knowledge of books. he has always been an extensive reader, and among the periodicals found in his library will be seen many newspapers, he taking eleven, from which he gleans many points of interest to the scientific farmer.
Although reared to farm pursuits, Levi Smith, when twenty-five years of age, learned the trade of a stone-mason, which he followed until 1872, and then engaged in what has since been his life occupation. In the above year, he bought the interest of the other heirs in the old home farm, which includes one hundred and fifty-eight acres, and which, under his management, makes handsome returns. His activity, keen foresight, tenacity of purpose, and skill in carrying out his plans, have made our subject successful in life, and in no small degree have contributed to the material prosperity of Canton Township, and likewise of Stark County. He gives his chief attention to the raising of corn and wheat, and is numbered among the most prominent farmers of this section. In his career will be found a lesson of encouragement to poor boys, exhibiting, as it does, the result which may be obtained by steadfast industry and integrity. Mr. Smith is a very methodical farmer send keeps a complete set of books, which show the yearly expenses of his estate to be $700.
The marriage of our subject with Miss Mary A. Foltz was solemnized in November, 1862. Mrs. Smith is a native of Perry Township, this county, and a daughter of Samuel and Catharine Foltz. To them has been born a family of eight children, viz: Frances Emma, Mrs. David Harmon; Margaret E., Mrs. D. E. Hollibaugh; Trilly, the wife of Logan Doll; Jesse J., Samuel C., Ephraim, David, and Rosella. They have all been given good educations, and have been trained by their excellent parents to fill useful and honorable stations in life.
Although not in any sense a politician, Mr. Smith is active in local affairs and, with the progressive element of Canton Township, is doing all that he can to elevate its social and moral status,
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and to contribute to its general welfare. He has been called upon to serve as a member of the School Board, with which body he has been actively connected since 1874.
JOHN T. WEYBRECHT, a self-made man of Alliance, is the senior member of the firm of Weybrecht & Son, proprietors of planing mills and lumber yards in this city. He was born in France, January 27, 1829, and is the eldest son in a family of three sons and five daughters, who were born unto Pheobold and Anna M. (Prickard) Weybrecht, natives of France. His father was a contractor and builder in the Old Country. Both parents are now deceased.
Our subject was reared in the land of his nativity and acquired a good education in the French tongue. He learned his trade with his father, and in 1853 sailed for America, landing in Now York on the 10th of December. He then went to Pennsylvania and worked at carpentering in Lycoming County for about four months. In April 1854, he started for Ft. Wayne, Ind., but an accident delayed the train at Alliance, and this apparently trivial matter changed the whole course of Mr. Weybrecht's life. He here met with a German speaking gentleman and by him was induced to remain in Stark County. For three months he worked out by the day, and then started in business for himself as a contractor and builder, receiving a great many contracts. In 1886, he built a small planing-mill, which in the course of time, on account of the rapid growth of Alliance was found to be in the very heart of the city. His trade had also greatly increased with the growth of the town, and in order to enlarge his facilities; Mr. Weybrecht removed to his present location and erected his extensive mills. He manufactures all kinds of lumber used in building, and has done an excellent business. He now employs many workmen and is aided in the management of the business by his sons, who have been admitted to partnership, and have relieved the senior member from much of the care and business responsibility. The plant covers about two acres of ground, and the works are supplied with the most improved machinery for the rapid and etilcient execution of every description of planing-mill work and all job work in connection.
In 1855, Mr. Weybrecht wedded Maggie Honecker, and unto them have been born three sons and three daughters. He is a member of the Odd Fellows' society, and of the Knights of Honor, and has proved a valuable citizen to Alliance. He has taken an active and intelligent interest in public affairs, and has aided greatly in the upbuilding of the city. He came to this country without capital, but by perseverance and economy has become proprietor of one of the leading industries of Alliance, has made a competency by his indefatigable industry, and can now enjoy the fruits of his labor.
WALLACE H. PHELPS, editor of the Alliance Daily and Weekly Review, was born in Atwater Portage County, Ohio, August 10, 1853. His boyhood days were spent in a somewhat uneventful manner on a farm, and when seventeen, he entered the office of the Monitor at Alliance, having decided to learn the trade of a printer. His quickness and skill soon won for him the confidence of his employers, and in 1872, two years after entering the office, he was made foreman, a position which he filled with the utmost fidelity to his superiors.
Starting out for himself in 1875, Mr. Phelps commenced the publication of the Alliance Weekly Leader, which for a number of years was conspicuous as a well-edited and ably-managed journal. In 1887, he established the Daily Leader, which was the first daily newspaper published at Alliance, and filling a long-felt want, its able editor experienced a most successful ride upon the wave of prosperity. The credit for the flattering reception with which
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the paper met in the community was principally due to the skillful management and guidance of Mr. Phelps. It was not long before the paper was recognized As one of the leading and most enterprising inland dailies of Ohio, and was a welcome guest in the homes of thousands of subscribers.
January 1, 1892, the Daily Leader was consolidated with the Daily Review, and Mr. Phelps was chosen editor of the combined publications. The printing office is located in a large building on the main thoroughfare of Alliance. The first, second and third floors of the establishment are used as composing and press rooms, and both are commodious and conveniently arranged. Upon the first floor is also a well-stocked wholesale and retail stationery and book-store. Connected with the office is a well-fitted and finely-equipped job department, which is supplied with all modern machinery necessary for turning out the best grade of commercial, book and general job printing.
As stated above, Mr. Phelps embarked in business for himself in 1875, and although less than twenty years have since elapsed, his efforts have already been crowned by the highest success, a 0just tribute to his merits. A man of broad knowledge and an extended range of information, he is amply qualified to conduct one of the great newspapers of the State, and his position among the leading journalists is one of prominence and influence. He is actively identified with the Knights of Pythias, and ranks high in the social circles of Alliance.
ROBERT M. WILHELM. Stark County contains no more highly respected resident than the gentleman above named, the seat of whose agricultural work is on section 10, Sugar Creek Township. His home farm consists of one hundred and forty-five acres of choice land, and he gives his attention to general farming, thriving in proportion to his zeal and perseverance. A tasty farmhouse, substantial barn and other buildings and the usual garden and orchard tracts meet the eye of a visitor, and the orderly arrangement and neatness everywhere noted are significant of the character of the owner of the farm.
David and Susan (Dilman) Wilhelm, the parents of our subject, were natives of Dauphin County, Pa. They emigrated to this county in an early day, locating in that portion which is now included within the limits of Summit County, where our subject was born, June 27, 1824. Finally, they took up their abode in Sugar Creek Township, a short distance south of Wilniot. The father had been twice married and his children who survive are Abraham; Robert M.; Susan, Mrs. Isaac Konage; Nancy, the wife of Jacob Shook; David, and Lucinda, Mrs. Jacob Buxler. The elder Mr. Wilhelm died in 1867, well known and highly respected in his township and deservedly loved by all who knew him.
The subject of this sketch was reared to man's estate in his native county and was carefully trained by his worthy parents in all that goes to make all honest man and a good citizen, and in the district school received a good education. His marriage was celebrated May 10, 1845, at which time Miss Elizabeth Wyandt, a native of this county, became his wife. Mrs. Wilhelm was born December 10, 1826 to Henry and Elizabeth (Warner) Wyandt, pioneers of Sugar Creek Township, By her union with our subject she has become the mother of eleven children, of whom the seven living are: George W.; Emma, Mrs. Asbury Holm; James; Mary, the wife of Adolph Hay; Nora, Mrs. G. T. Warstler; Edward B.; and Prof. John S., a teacher in the Fostoria (Ohio) Academy.
Mr. Wilhelm, as the result of an industrious and useful life, has a well-improved farm and is regarded as one of the leading agriculturists of the township. He has held the office of Trustee of Sugar Creek Township and in school affairs has served for many years as a Director. In politics, he is a stanch Republican, and his manly' character, gentlemanly bearing and enterprising nature commend him to the people, and he is one whose influence is felt throughout the community.
When seventeen years of age, our subject began to learn the cabinet-maker's trade, serving an apprenticeship of three years. He found this to be
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a very paying business and continued to follow his trade, in connection with operating his farm, for a number of years. He has also been engaged in selling agricultural implements, and in all matters, pertaining to the good of his county, its up building and material prosperity, he takes an active interest, and as a private citizen his life is irreproachable.
JOHN PONTIUS. The Pontius family is one closely connected with the pioneer history of Stark County, and none of those who have aided in bringing this region to its present material elevation and advanced civilization are better worthy of representation in a volume of this nature than its members. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs is a native of the county, having been born in Plain Township, August 29, 1827, and is now enjoying the fruits of a life spent in usefulness and well-doing.
The subject of this biographical review was reared to map's estate on section 28, Plain Township, and attended the pioneer schools taught in log cabins. In its furniture, the room was as primitive as in the method of instruction employed; on one side was a fire in a rude fireplace, and the furniture consisted mainly of slab benches with wooden pins for legs. There were no windows, but in the aperture caused by theremoval of a log was placed a greased paper to serve instead of a glass.
Young Pontius was orphaned by the death of his father when a lad of five years, and when thirteen years of age worked out by the month, and as his services became more valuable received $8 per month. Being the eldest of the family, the greater weight of responsibility rested upon him, and in working out in this manner he armed himself with the wherewithal to defray the growing expenses. After four years employed in working for other parties, our subject farmed the land belonging to his grandfather, and continued to thus operate until 1850, when, his grandfather having died two years previous, he purchased one hundred and two acres of the estate that fall, and prepared to establish a home of his own. In April of the following year, Mr. Pontius established a home of his own by his marriage with Miss Mary Hoover, who was born in Franklin County, Pa., September 22, 1825. Mrs. Pontius came to this section with her parents, henry and Margaret Hoover, in the year 1827, and with them made her home on section 9, Plain Township, until the year 1865, when they removed to New Berlin, and there passed the remainder of their days.
To our subject and his estimable wife has been born a family of four children: Jacob H.; Lewis M.; Mary E., who married William H. Martin; and Thomas J. Mr. Pontius took possession of a valuable estate in Plain Township in the spring of 1851, when the only improvement it bore was a few acres cleared and a tumble-down log cabin and barn. By dint of perseverance he has made the estate what it is to-day, and in placing it in its present condition was ably assisted by his devoted wife, whose good judgment and prudence in household management were highly appreciated. her character was such as to win the respect of all who knew her, and for her share of the work incidental to the Ohio pioneers she is gratefully remembered. She entered into rest September 30, 1891, mourned by many friends, whose heartfelt sympathy was bestowed upon her afflicted family.
After the death of his wife, Mr. Pontius sold his farm to his son-in-law. In 1855, he erected a large frame house on the place, which he later remodeled and furnished in a manner which showed him to be possessed of ample means. He added to his acreage at different times until his property included one hundred and forty-two acres of excellent land, which he devoted to mixed farming. As before stated, this he sold to his son-in-law, William H. Martin, with whom he makes his home. He has bought and sold, in all, over five hundred acres of land in this township during the last fifteen years, and through his instrumentality the thriving village of Middlemarch was platted. He has made the handling of real estate his chief occupation
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for the past twenty years, and in this branch of business has manifested admirable judgment and, as a result, is now one of the wealthy and influential citizens of the county. e is practically a self-made man, as He has acquired all his property icy hard work, seconded by foresight and shrewd and careful dealing. e has shown much skill and enterprise in his business affairs and is prudent and cautious in his dealings, though at the same time He is wide-awake in all his transactions, which are always fair and above-board..
Mr. Pontius is a very devoted member of the Lutheran Church, to which body his wife belonged for a number of years. In his political affiliations, he is a Democrat and has taken an active part in local affairs, serving in the capacity of Land Appraiser on two different occasions. To such men as our subject, Ohio owes her present standing among her sister States. His excellent citizenship, his interest in all which will tend to promote the material prosperity land, above all, the moral and intellectual welfare of society, make hiram a valued member of the community in which he wields a decided influence.
JOSEPH DICK, proprietor of Dick's Agricultural Works, and manufacturer of Dick's famous patent hay, straw, stock and ensilage cutters and carriers, has his office and works on Sixth Avenue, Canton, Ohio, his telephone call being No. 11. The history of this house has been so intimately connected with the trade of Canton since its inception in 1874, that no record of the industries of the community would be complete that did not take special cognizance of this representative establishment. For eighteen years, this gentleman has, by his upright dealing and honorable business methods, kept before the public and sustained himself as a manufacturer of high repute. Although commencing business in a small and modest way, he embarked on a prosperous sea, with the wind and tide in his favor, and now occupies beautiful and commodious quarters,his main building being a three-story frame structure, 40x180 feet, with two wings, 40x60 and 40x80 feet, and each two stories in size. He employs about seventy men during the busy season, some of whom have been with him for sixteen years, and before putting his work on the market it is thoroughly tested and tried. With the best selected material, finest finish and best skilled workmanship, his goods hold high rank, as they deserve. he uses steam power in his establishment and his machinery is of the latest improved "Lee" description. His sales are made direct to jobbers, and he thus secures a very safe patronage.
Mr. Dick was born in Jackson Township, Stark County, Ohio, May 28, 1840, to Joseph and Mary (Messmer) Dick, the former of whom was born in France and the latter in Germany. Mr. Dick, upon landing at Castle Garden, N. Y., almost immediately turned his footsteps West, locating in Cleveland, Ohio, where he followed his trade, that of a blacksmith. In 1837, he settled in Jackson Township, Stark County, Ohio. About 1880, he moved to Canton, where he and his wife died, at the age of severity-eight and seventy-two years, respectively. The senior Joseph Dick was a man of progressive views in regard to the conduct of his affairs and he was also quite active in local politics and ably filled a number of township offices. He was a member of the Catholic Church, and in this faith he reared his family of six children.
The subject of this sketch was the eldest son of his parents' house, and his youthful days were spent in assisting his father on the farm and acquiring such education as the coalition schools afforded. Upon attaining his majority, he cane to Canton, and for some two years thereafter he was engaged in making models and patterns, after which he was employed in the Ball Reaper Works at Canton in tike capacity of a machinist. Upon the completion of his trade, he visited ninny of the towns and cities of the State in the capacity of a journeyman, after which he returned to Canton, which city has since been tire scene of his labors, and here he is held in high repute as a man of business.
In the year 1866, he was married to Miss Ros-
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anna McKittrick, daughter of Thomas McKittrick, of Rochester, N. Y.. a Scotchman by descent. Mr. and Mrs. Dick are the parents of six children: Emma, at home; William, foreman in the mechanical department of his father's works; Charlie F., a student at Dayton College; Frank I., Agnes, and Laura. Mr. Dick is a member of the School Board, a Director of the Board of Trade, Vice-president of the Canton Home Savings and Loan Co., and has been interested in other worthy organizations. Progressive, enterprising and liberal, he has been largely instrumental in promoting the general welfare and industrial thrift of the city of Canton and is in every way worthy the high place he holds in public esteem. he aid his family are members of the St. John's Catholic Church.
WILLIAM MOFFITT. it is universally conceded that our happiness and well-being as individuals depend necessarily to a large extent upon our own efforts, upon our own self-culture, self-discipline and self-denial, and, above all, upon that honest and conscientious performance of individual duty which is the true strength of manly character. Notwithstanding the limited advantages afforded him in his youth, Mr. Moffitt has become the owner of a fine farm pleasantly located in Tuscarawas Township, and is ranked among the well-to-do and enterprising agriculturists of Stark County. The schools of his boyhood were few and his attendance in these was irregular, but he gradually acquired the best of an education-that which a man gives himself while engaged in the ordinary pursuits of life.
A native of Washington County, Pa., our subject was born March 12, 1815, and is the son of Peter and Mary Moffitt, both of whom were natives of Ireland. The father, who was of English origin, emigrated to America in an early day and served as a soldier in the War of 1812. His wife accompanied her parents on their removal to this country when ten years of age, and after her marriage with Mr. Moffitt resided in Pittsburgh a short time and then went to Washington County. When our subject was ten years of age, he was brought by his parents to Jefferson County, this State, were they resided a short time, and ten took up their abode in Tuscarawas County, where they made their home for two years. At the end of that time, the parents went to Wayne County, were our subject grew to mature years. His education was limited to the log schoolhouses of that early day, and the most of his time was spent in assisting his fatter in tilling the soil.
William Moffitt was married November 19, 1839, to Miss Lucinda Eldredge, who was born in Tuscarawas Township, this county, and is the daughter of Nathan and Elizabeth Eldredge, her father having come to this section as early as 1811, whither he was followed by his wife four years later. By their union three children were born to our subject and his wife: Elizabeth J., now the widow of James Fletcher; Mary, who is deceased; and Nathan E. The son was n soldier in the late Civil War and participated in the battle of Vicksburg, and was with Sherman on his memorable march to the sea. He was later wounded in the battle of Arkansas Post and returned home after a service of one year.
When twelve years of age, he of whom we write was thrown upon his own resources and began learning the shoemaker's trade, at which he served an apprenticeship of three years. Later, e followed the life of a journeyman and was also the proprietor of a shop, which he conducted for six years, and ten engaged in the mercantile business at Dalton, this State. Seven years thereafter, in 1843, e came to this county and took up his abode on what is now his present farm, where he has resided since that time. His property includes one hundred and sixty-five acres, which he developed from the primeval wilderness. he has had an extensive pioneer experience in this county, with the progress of which e has been closely identified, and to give the history of the county is only to state in general terms his own early discouragements and his littler progress and fulfillment of hopes.
Always in favor of those measures which will
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benefit the community, Mr. Moffitt has served as Trustee of his township, and in his political afliliations he votes with the Republican party, having cast his first vote for Henry Clay. With his wife, he is a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, having been connected with that body for sixty years, during which time e has held many of the official positions.
Nathan E. Moffitt, the son of our subject, was born in this county, October 14, 1813, and has always made his home ere, with the exception of Live years spent in the mercantile business in Dalton. In October, 1863, He joined Company I, Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, and with his regiment was mustered into Sherman's army. On returning from the field of battle, he was married, August 3, 1865, to Miss Celia O. Moxhimer. Like his father, he also votes for Republican candidates, and has been engaged as a local minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church for some time. He has also served as President of the Stark County Agricultural Society, of which organzation he was Director for four years. he is a member of the Farmers' Alliance, and wherever he goes his many noble attributes of character are recognized rind valued, and also the spirit of philanthrophy which governs all his actions and wins for him friends among not only the rich, but the poor and unfortunate.
JACOB M. TRUBEY. This name is quickly recognized throughout Stark County, as it is borne by a gentleman who has hold the office of County Commissioner, and whose standing in the community is most excellent. He is a prominent and wealthy agriculturist of Sugar Crock Township, having a valuable estate, which, under careful handling, produces most abundantly. An elegant farmhouse, ample barns and outbuildings rear their walls at convenient points, and an orchard, garden and shade trees beautify the scene.
Our subject is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Franklin County, May 7, 1820, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Welty) Trubey, who were also natives of that county. Representatives of the Trubey family emigrated to this country from Hesse-Cassel, Germany, during the Revolutionary War, and the great-grandfather served as a patriot in that struggle. Jacob Trubey, the father of our subject, emigrated from his native State to this county in 1823, taking up his abode on the farm now owned by our subject in Sugar Creek Township. The land was partially cleared at the time it came into his possession, and a hewed-log house was on the place, into which the family moved and in which they resided until a more substantial structure could be erected. The father only lived about twelve years after his advent into this county, and at his death left a wife and three children, viz.: Jacob M., Samuel J. and Nancy, the bitter two of whom are deceased.
The elder Mr. Trubey was a very prominent naas in his township, and had no long been numbered among its leading citizens, that the news of his death came as a personal calamity to many acquaintances, and caused a profound feeling of regret. this business relations had been such as to demonstrate the activity of his mind and glue honesty of his purpose, while his disposition was so kindly and generous, that e could scarcely be known without being loved. He occupied the position of Justice of the Peace, and in other ways had considerable to do with municipal affairs, and while serving as Justice solemnized the marriage contract of fifty-two parties. He had served as administrator for ten estates, ranging in amount from five to sixty thousand dollars, and in most cases e was executor. e closed up the affairs of two extensive dry-goods stores, also, in a manner perfectly satisfactory to all the interested parties.
The gentleman whose mane heads this sketch was a lad of fifteen years when his father died, and being the eldest of the family the responsibility of carrying on a farm devolved upon him. e was reared on the home farm and assisted his father in doing all kinds of work that the pioneers of that time engaged in. His education was conducted in the common schools of his boyhood
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days, which did not offer as good facilities for acquiring learning as those of the present day, but he made the most of his advantages, and by reading and close observation has made up for his early deficiencies in that line.
Mr. Trubey, of this sketch, was married December 12, 1844, at which time Miss Eliza, daughter of Nicholas D. and Mary A. Swan, became his wife. To them was born a family of seven children, four of whom are living, namely; Nathan, who makes his home in Arkansas; Harmon, who resides in La Grange County, Ind.; Esdras B., at present living in Minneapolis, Minn., and Freeman, who also lives in La Grange County, Ind. Mrs. Trubey possessed that culture of mind and kindness of heart which won for her the esteem of the entire community, and at her death, which occurred June 14, 1858, she was greatly mourned.
The lady whom our subject chose as his second wife, December 12, 18;58, was Elizabeth Pherson, who was born in this county, February 24, 1833, and is the daughter of Theopolius and Eliza Pherson, who were early settlers in Sugar Creek Township. Of the eight children born of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Trubey, five survive, who bear the respective names of Ellsworth J., Jennie E. (Mrs. Samuel Muskopf), Asa H., Ira T. and Alva P.
Our subject is one of the most thrifty and progressive citizens of the county, and as farming has been his life work, he is thoroughly informed regarding the peculiar qualities of soils, the best methods of fertilizing, and the rotation of crops which will produce the most desirable results. Having prospered in life, he is able to surround his family with all the comforts and luxuries which money can buy, and bestows upon his children excellent educational advantages. He is the proprietor of seven hundred acres of land, the greater portion of which is located in La Grange County, Ind., and upon his estates will be found the various improvements which may be expected of a man of progressive ideas. Politically, he belongs to the Republican party, and is greatly interested in polities, keeping well informed regarding the issues of the day and the bearing of public events upon the nation. For three years he held the office of County Commissioner, and has done not a little for the upbuilding and advancement of the section, nn d has given his support to those enterprises which are calculated to promote the general welfare, and is honored and esteemed alike by young and old, rich and poor. He has also held the office of Trustee in Sugar Creek Township. For eighteen years he was Justice of the Peace, and has been serving for twenty years as Notary Public. The home which Mr. and Mrs. Trubey occupy is a beautiful and commodious structure, where they entertain some of the best people throughout the county, and, surrounded by children and friends, they are journeying down the hill of time, enjoying the fruits of industry and well-doing.
MARTIN SCHAFER. The gentleman who is at the present time responsible for the Township has held that position since the year of 1876, and is widely and favorably known. No man is justly entitled to a more enviable place in the history of Stark County's prominent men than Mr. Schafer, who has been usefully and honorably identified with the county, and with its advancement in every worthy particular. He was born in Massillon, this county, on the 17th of November. 1838, and his parents, Martin and Arnstine Wilhelmena (Held) Schafer, were born near Bingen on the Rhine, Bavaria, Germany, the father's birth occurring in 1793.
The elder Mr. Schafer was reared in his native country and learned the tailor's trade. He was there married to Miss Held. He served six years in the German cavalry. About 1833, he took passage for America with his wife and three children, and after landing on this side of the Atlantic, he came immediately to Massillon, Ohio, where he worked at his trade until 1848. He then moved to Loudonville, Ashland County, Ohio, and there carried on a grocery store until his death, in 1857. He was a prominent man and was one of
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the organizers of the St. John's Evangelical Church, of Massillon, and was active in all church work.
Mrs. Schafer, mother of our subject, was the daughter of Ludwig Held, who was born in Germany, and who was a locksmith by trade. He came to America a few years after the Schafer family and located in Massillon, where be followed his trade, making all his locks by land. he was a fine mechanic. At the time of his death, he was ninety-four years of age, and his wife was eighty-four. He awoke one morning and found his wife dead. and immediately said he did not care to live any longer. He died the same day, and they were buried in one grave. Thus passed away this devoted old couple. he had been working in the shop the day before. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Schafer returned to Massillon; this was about 1858, and here her death occurred in the fall of 1871. Nine children were born to this union: Lewis, who is in Wellington, Kan., engaged in the meat business; Margaret was Mrs. McClintic, and died in Pittsburgh, Pa.; Christina became Mrs. Zellers and resides in Massillon; Martin, our subject; Williams, who now resides in Massillon and is in the employ of Russell & Co., enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and fifteenth Ohio Infantry, in 1862, and served until the close of the war. Caroline, now Mrs. Bergold, resides in Massillon; Jacob resides in Cincinnati; Louise, Mrs. Cheney, resides in Kansas City, Mo.; and Charles died in Massillon.
The subject of this sketch remained in his native county until 1848, and then went to Loudonville, where he was early given employment in the grocery owned by his father. On account of this, he received but a common district-school education, and when he was sixteen years of age his mother sold out and moved back to Massillon. After this, he entered the employ of C. M. Russell & Co., and learned the beltmaker's trade, which he carried on for about ten years with the above-mentioned company. He would have been given the position of foreman had his health permitted it. He gave up his trade and engaged in the saw machine business, which he continued until the winter of 1888, a period of twenty years. From 1880 he was a partner of the firm of Schafer & Mausz, which continued until 1888, when they dissolved partnership. Daring this tune, he became familiar with the settling of estates, was administrator, and continues that business at the present time, being administrator for several estates was Trustee for the John Madder estate and became guardian of the children. He is a careful, upright and very successful business man, and commands the respect of all. His residence is at No. 20 West Charles Street, and his office is at No. 18 North Erie Street.
Mr. Schafer was married in Massillon, in 1883, to Mrs. Elizabeth Florence (Crossland) Dunlap, a native of Sugar Creek Township, Stark County, Ohio, and the daughter of Augustus Crossland, a native of Middlebury, Summit County, Ohio, and a blacksmith by trade. He is now a resident of Navarre. one child has blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Schafer, Charles Leslie.
For a short time, Mr. Schafer was Justice of the Pence afterward Assessor of the Second Ward, and in 1876 he was elected Township Treasurer, and has helded that position in a creditable and satisfactory manner since. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and has been its financier for five years. He is an active member and Trustee of St. John's Evangelical Church, and in politics is a stanch Republican, his first Presidential vote being cast for Abraham Lincoln in 1860. He is a member of the Board of Trade and is one of the committee on statistics.
JOHN GILL, is accounted a prosperous farmer of Lawrence Township, and, like the majority of native Germans, is progressive in his views and of an energetic temperament. He now resides on a fine farm of one hundred and thirty-two acres on section 10, and his successful career has amply demonstrated the fact that perseverance and industry will always succeed. He was originally from Germany, and his father,
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Andrew Gill, was also a native of the same place. The latter was reared there, learned the cabinet-maker's trade, and was married to Miss Louisa Hammer, who was also a native of Germany. In the year 1837, he brought his family to America, find after landing on this side of the ocean, he came immediately to Lawrence Township, Stark County, Ohio, and bought ten acres of land on section 11. There he settled, and there his death occurred in 1844. His widow subsequently married Joseph Gill, his brother. Five children, one daughter and four sons, were born to the first union, and three children came to the second union. Mrs. Gill is now deceased.
The original of this notice, who was the eldest child born to the first union, was about three years of age when he came with his parents to America, and his first schooling was received in Lawrence Township, in a German school, Later, he attended an English school in Lawrence Township, and thus acquired a fair knowledge of the English language. After assisting on the farm and working at the carpenter's trade until twenty-one years of age, he and his brother Michel ran a threshing-machine for fifteen years in Lawrence Township. He was married the first time in 1860, to Miss Catherine Wagner, a native of Ohio, but of German descent, her father and nether having been born in the Fatherland. Mrs. Gill died in 1867, and left three children, as follows: Mary, wife of Frank Lobbie, of Akron, Ohio; Andrew married and resides in Doylestown, Wayne County, Ohio; and Augusta resides in Massillon, and is a tinner by trade.
Mr. Gill's second marriage was with Miss Melinda Wilmont, a native of France, who was brought to this country by her parents when about two years of age. Five children, two daughters and three sons, were born to this union, viz: William J., Edward, Allie, Hattie and Oscar. After his first marriage, Mr. Gill located on section 13, Lawrence Township, on a farm of twenty-five acres, where be remained for three years. From there he removed to Jackson Township and bought forty acres, upon which he resided for about three years, and then sold out, purchasing seventy-five acres on section 13, Lawrence Township. Two years later, he sold this and purchased the same number of acres on section 10, the same township, known as the Mobley Place, on which he remained for about three years. After selling this, he bought the farm where he now resides, one hundred and thirty-two acres on section 10, and here he has tilled the soil ever since. He has accumulated most of his property by hard work and perseverance, for he started out in life with only about $200. He has a good house and barn, and the place has a neat, cozy appearance. Mr. Gill also owns a business block in Canal Fulton, and this he rents out. He keeps a good breed of stock of all kinds, and has fifty head of sheep. He also occasionally buys and sells horses.
ROBERT C. SLUTTS. It is doubtful if a man can be found within the bounds of Stark County who has made a better record than the gentleman above named, who is the owner of one hundred and twelve acres of land in Bethlehem Township. His excellent reputation does not depend upon the solidity of his finances, but upon his personal character and the favorable knowledge his acquaintances have of his generosity and reliability.
He of whom we write is a native of this county, having been born August 22, 1843, to James and Rachel Slutts, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania, respectively. The father of our subject was a lad of seven years when his parents emigrated to Ohio, the family locating in Jefferson County, where he grew to manhood. Upon reaching mature years, he took up his abode in this county, owning his first property in Sugar Creek Township, where he erected a log cabin in the woods. In connection with operating his farm, he carried on his trade of tanner and currier on his place, and died in 1881.
Our subject is the eldest of the five children who survive, his brother and sisters being Elizabeth, Catherine, Anna and Josiah. Robert C. obtained only a fair education, his school privileges being meagre, and the few months which he could devote
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at the temple of learning saw him seated upon a slab bench, perusing his text-books by the light of greased-paper window and receiving warmth rom a huge fireplace. When ready to establish a home of his own, he was married, in March, 1864, to Miss Catherine Muskopf, the daughter of John Muskopf, a well-to-do farmer of Sugar Creek Township, this county. To Mr. find Mrs. Slutts has been born a large family of children, of whom the following survive: James, John, Anna, Charles, Malvern, Clara, and Ralph.
He of whom we write, as before stated, is the proprietor of one hundred and twelve acres of land, which is an excellent showing for a man who began his business career with no other capital than strong hands and a determination to succeed. To the devoted assistance of his worthy wife, her cheerful help in all his labors, and her wise counsel, Mr. Shutts feels himself greatly indebted. They are both members of the Evangelical Association and have been active workers in all good causes. Our subject has served for some time as School Director, and, like most of our agriculturists, he is of a progressive spirit and interested in the advancement of the community and the people at large.
DANIEL PAAR, Vice-president of the Clinton Water Works, was born in Germany, April 1, 1834. His parents, John D. and Margaret (Kauffman) Paar, spent their entire lives in their native province, Kurhessen, Germany, and honored by all who knew them, passed to the great beyond when they had attained to a venerable age. The father was an industrious man and a farmer by occupation, his labors being rewarded by the accumulation of a sufficient amount to protect his old age from the cares of poverty. he reared his two sons and four daughters to habits of industry, and by his counsel and training endeavored to prepare them for positions of usefulness in the world.
A brother of our subject, George, emigrated to the United States in 1871, and died in Canton in 1881. A sister, Catharine, still makes her home in the fatherland. Daniel was educated i n his native province, where he learned the trade. of is blacksmith. Having resolved to seek a home beyond the ocean, in the great country of which he had heard so much, he sailed for America in 1854, taking passage at Beman, and landing in New York after a voyage of thirty-eight days. After reaching New York, he sought employment at his trade, and for about three months worked on the corner of Gold and Fulton Streets.
From New York, Mr. Paar came west to Cleveland, where, with the exception of a couple of days, he was unable to find work in July 1851, we find him in Canton, where he secured a position with Lorence Bechele, and remained in that connection about five years. Although he received a very small salary, by ceouumy he saved a portion of his earnings; and in 1839 engaged in business for himself. He formed a partnership with his brother-in-law, Henry Smith, and together they cordneted a blacksmith and general repair shop until 187.5, when the connection was dissolved.
In 1884, Mr. Paar engaged in the manufacture of carriages, taking his son, Charles L., as partner and the busines was carried on successfully until 1889, when it was closed out. The firm now engages in general repairing and horse-shoeing, and is known as D. Paar & Son, the junior member being Henry Paar. Since taking up his abode in Canton, our subject has accumulated considerable property as the fruit of his toil, and he has gained in addition that which is far better-the respect of his business associates and the friendship of those with whom he has social relations.
April 12, 1859, Mr. Paar was married to Miss Catharine Schmidt, a native of Germany. They are the parents of three sons and one daughter, namely: Charles, a traveling salesman in New York; Henry, who is associated in business with his father; Louis A., a merchant in Canton, and Emma K. Mr. Paar has been closely identified with the material progress of the city ill which he has so long made his home. For three years and more he has been the efficient Vice-president of the
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Canton Water Works, and is a Director of the Sewer Commission. Socially, he is a charter member of the Knights of Maccabees, and has been identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1857, being at present the oldest surviving member of that organization in Canton. Politically, he is a Democrat.
ANDREW HOLZBACH is well and favorably known to a host of acquaintances in this community, for he has been long and worthily identified with the stock-raising and farming interests hereabouts, and everything about his property pronounces him an agriculturist of much energy and discrimination.
He was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 24, 1837, of which place his father, Jacob Holzbach, was also a native. In 1868, the latter cause with his family to America and t once turned his footsteps in the direction of Massillon, Stark County, Ohio, where he died in 1873. His wife was Catherine Sibalo, and two years after the death of her husband she also passed from life. A family of twelve children were born to them, all of whom lived to honorable manhood and womanhood; Nicholas was killed in the Civil War and John was killed in a stone quarry at Bridgeport, Stark County, Ohio, but the other members of the family are living and ill the enjoyment of good health.
Andrew Holzbach was the third in order of birth, and while in his native land learned the trade of a miller, which occupation he followed until he came to America and for three years thereafter, being in the employ of Linn & Taylor. Succeeding this, he worked by the day in the coal mines of this county, then became a member of the German Coal Stock Company, of which he was a member for about two years. He next turned his attention to the grocery and saloon business in Massillon, and from 1870 until 1882 he devoted his energies to the successful conduct of this business. At the last-named date, he purchased the farm of one hundred and sixty acres where he now resides which, under his able management, has been made to yield abundant harvests. On the 18th of May, 1863, his marriage with Miss Catherine Bast. a native of Germany, whose natal day was December 22, 1837, was celebrated. Upon attaining her twenty-first year, she embarked for the New World which has since been her home. She has borne her husband six sons and four daughters: Charles, of Jonesborough, Ark.; Frank, a foreman of the Ft. Wayne Railroad, Nora; John, a fireman on the Ft. Wayne Railroad Anthony, Matilda, George; Willie, a barber at Massillon; Anna, and Clara.
When Mr. Holzbach settled on his present farm it was but slightly improved with a log house and barn, but in 1882 he erected a substantial two story residence at a cost of $2,000, and a good barn, 40x80 feet, in 1884, which also cost him $2,000. He has been closely identified with agricultural pursuits in this vicinity and his well established characteristics of energy, perseverance and unbounded industry have brought him safe returns. Careful, prudent and economical, but not in the least penurious, he is filled with the "milk of human kindness," and those who know him recognize in him a good friend and neighbor.
He has always been in sympathy with the Democratic party and has often been a delegate to the county conventions at Canton. He and his family are members and regular attendants of the Catholic Church.
OLIVER W. HOLL. A plain, untarnished statement of the facts embraced in the life of Mr. Holl who is now the efficient Surveyor of Stark County, and a man well and favorably known to the people of the same, is all that we profess to be able to give in this history of the county; and yet, upon examination of these facts, there will be found the career of one whose
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entire course through the world has been marked by great honesty and fidelity of purpose.
Mr. Holl was born in Jackson Township, this county, on the 13th of March, 18.58, and was fourth in order of birth of six children born to the union of Reuben and Eliza (Roush) Holl, natives, respectively, of Lancaster County, Pa., and Stark County, Ohio, the former born on the 15th of November, 1823. The paternal grandfather, Samuel Holl, was also a native of the Keystone State, and of Swiss descent The maternal grandfather of our subject, Godfrey Roush, walked from Pennsylvania to Ohio when young, and was one of the first settlers in Stark County. Reuben Holl has followed the occupation of a farmer much of his life, and is now residing on a fine tract of land in Jackson Township. He was a school teacher for many years, and was also engaged in land surveying in connection with farming. His wife died on the 18th of August, 1890. when in her sixty-fourth year. She was a most estimable lady, and was highly esteemed by all.
Oliver W. Holl, like the average farmer boy, received his education in the district schools, but later he entered the Northwestern Normal School at Ada, Ohio, where he remained for some time. Still later, he taught a winter term of school in the country, and then began following the occupation to which he had been reared, farming, which he continued for a time. After this, he was Assistant City Engineer of Canton, under his brother, John H. Holl, and filled this position in a very satisfactory manner for two years. In 1886, he was in the employ of the Missouri Pacific Railroad Company in the State of Kansas, on construction work, and the following year he was employed as draughtsman along the Ohio Railroad between Cincinnati and Louisville. During the latter part of that year, he was employed by the Union Pacific Railroad Company in the State of Kansas on construction work, and the following year he was employed as draughtsman along the Ohio Railroad between Cincinnati and Louisville. During the latter part of that year, he employed by the Union Pacific Railroad Company in the State of Kansas as draughtsman. In the spring of 1888, he returned to Canton, Ohio, and followed surveying and engineering in the city and country. He was thoroughly familiar with his business, and in the fall of 1889 he was elected County Surveyor for a period of three yeas, on the Democratic ticket. This office he still holds, and is discharging the duties of the sane in a manner reflecting a credit on himself and party. In politics, he is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Democratic party.
Our subject selected his life companion in the person of Miss Alice Essig, a native of Stark County, and their union was celebrated on the 28th of October, 1891. She is a daughter of William H. Essig. Mr. Holl and wife are worthy members of the Trinity Lutheran Church, and have a pleasant and comfortable home at No. 136 North Plum Street. One child has been born of this union, a daughter, Ruth.
W. K. L. WARWICK. Among the rising young men of Stark County, native and "to the manor born," none is more worthy of representation in this volume than this gentleman, who occupies the responsible positions of President and Treasurer of the Upper pigeon Run Coal Company, Secretary and Treasurer of the Warwick Coal Company and Manager of Sippo Mills.
He whose name heads this sketch was born in this city, December 23, 1862, where he attended the common schools until reaching his thirteenth year, when he entered Nazareth Hall, Nazareth, Northampton County, Pa., frona which institution he was graduated when fifteen years of age. he then entered a school at Gambier. Ohio, where he prepared to enter college, and later, after entering Kenyon College, prosecuted his studies there until the close of his Sophomore year, when he returned home and went to work in his father's office and now has charge of the business.
In 1885, Mr. Warwick was married in Pittsburgh, Pa., to Miss Jessie M., daughter of J. J Gillespie, one of the oldest residents of that city. The latter gentleman was very wealthy and was a stockholder in one of the largest banks, and interested in the oil trade of that locality; He is now deceased. To our subject and his wife has been
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born a son, John G. Our subject is Trustee of the $50,000 Improvement Fund, and is also a member of the Board of Park Commissioners. In his political relations, he is a stanch Democrat, and at the present time is serving as a member of the Executive Committee. The father of our subject is the proprietor of the Warwick Block, of this city, and is one of the most influential and prosperous men of the locality.
ABRAHAM VAN VOORHIS. It would be hard to decide in this country which State is the best, even if such a thing were possible; but it is certainly within the bounds of truth to say that the State of Ohio is one of the grandest find best, and equally is it true that Stark County, that State, contains within its borders some of the prettiest scenery and richest soil within the State. This statement could be more fully appreciated after a visit to the beautiful farm of Mr. Van Voorhis, which is located on section 32, Osnabnrg Township. The estate is well cultivated, and upon it first-class improvements have been made, and during the years in which he has devoted himself assiduously to its cultivation he has wrought great changes in its appearance.
A native of Pennsylvania, our subject was born in Washington County, December 12, 1822, and is the son of Peter Van Voorhis, who was born in New York State in 1795. When a young man, the grandfather removed to the above county in the Keystone State, where he met and married Miss Margaret Sickman, a native of that State, and of German descent. Her father, Barnett Sickman, was a farmer, and followed his calling in Pennsylvania.
In 1824, the father of our subject came to this county, and a few years later purchased the southwest quarter of section 28, Osnaburg Township. The land, with the exception of a few acres, was entirely undeveloped, and an old, dilapidated log cabin stood on the place. There Mr. Van Voorhis made his home until his decease in 1867. In early life, he was an old-line Whig in politics, but on the organization of the Republican party became a strong advocate of its principles. The mother died in 1877, and was, like her husband, a devoted member of the Christian Church.
The parental family comprised fourteen children, six daughters and eight sons, four of the latter being deceased. Our subject, who was the eldest of the family, was obliged to carry on the farm on the death of his father, find thus was enabled to attend school but a short time. When reaching his twentieth year, he was married to .Miss Elizabeth Ingle, daughter of Michael Ingle, one of the earliest and most prominent settlers in Stark County.
After his marriage, Mr. Van Voorhis farmed in Osnaburg Township for one year, and then removed to the Samuel Ake Farm, which he rented for eight successive years, after which he purchased it, but after keeping it eight years, he sold-it and purchased his father-in-law's estate, which consisted of one hundred and sixty broad acres, where he has since resided. In addition to raising the crops which are best adapted to the soil in his locality, our subject raises good grades of sheep and cattle, making a specialty of Shorthorn cattle. In 1867, he embellished his place by the erection thereon of a commodious residence, which is one of the best in the township. Five years previous, he built a large barn, sufficient for the storing of large quantities of grain and the shelter of stuck.
Of the five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Van Voorhis, we make the following mention: Margaret died at the age of four years. John died in 1887, leaving a wife and two sons, Lawrence and Arthur. Cyrus lives at home, and aids his father in the operation of the farm; he married Miss Ellen Judd, of this township, and has three children. Sarah died when in her twentieth year. Emma married Levi Bowman, and has one child. The mother of these children died February 20, 1892, at the age of seventy-one years.
In politics, Mr. Van Voorhis is a believer in and a supporter of the principles of the Republican
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party. He is an active worker in the Christian Church, and in all ways is interested in the growth and best welfare of his township. He has been very successful in life, for when locating here his capital was very limited. he has now surrounded himself with the various appliances for developing the soil, and has above all made preparations for the comfort of his family and their enjoyment. His spirit is liberal, and he is very prompt to aid the helpless and to contribute to every benevolent object and good work. Open-hearted in his intercourse and honorable in his dealings, he has hosts of friends.
HON. GEORGE HARSH. One of the most popular, strong and flourishing financial institutions of Massillon, Ohio, is the First National Bank, of which Hon. George Harsh is Vice-president. He was born in Washington County, Pa., on the 15th of March, 1810, a son of George and Catherine (Stricker) Harsh, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania, a farmer of German descent. In 1813, he came overland to Ohio with his wife and six children, and two and a half miles northwest of Massillon he entered one hundred and sixty acres of land, and purchased one hundred acres more. Part of this land was successfully tilled until his death, August 16, 1833, at the age of seventy-three years. Although he and his family were compelled to endure many hardships and privations during their early residence in this section, Mr. Harsh was a man of sound judgment, and realized the fact that the land in Stark County was very fertile and that his early labors and hardships would be well rewarded in after years. he was a member of the German Lutheran Church, as was also his wife, who was born in Washington County, Pa. Her demise occurred January 21, 1813, at the age of seventy-six years. The country was in a primitive condition at the time of their settlement, and the town of MassilIon was unknown until about 1826, when a few houses began to be erected,
Hon. George Harsh received his initiatory education in the log schoolhouse of his boyhood days, but this he supplemented by an academical course in Canton, during which time he improved every opportunity and became a well-informed young man. He devoted the summer masons to assisting his father in tilling the home farm until, at the age of twenty-two years, he came to Massillon and engaged in partnership with his brother Jacob, who commenced business in 1828 in a mercantile establishment, the firm being changed and known as J. & G. Harsh. Two years later, Jacob died, in March, 1831, aged thirty-three years. George the" became the sole proprietor, and although he was sometimes associated in business with others, because of his small capital, he was principally alone for the succeeding twenty-three years. He was pushing, energetic and honest, consequently successful, and the magnitude of his business necessitated a visit to the East about once a year to look up the prevailing modes, and to purchase goods, the trip being made by stage.
About 1866, he disposed of all interests in the mercantile business, and has since dealt in real estate, principally farming land, and is now the owner of three farms in Stark County near Massillon, each comprising one hundred and sixty acres, and all improved with fair buildings, beside which he has forty acres of unimproved wood land. He is also the owner of a business block in Massillon, and two residences. His own residence was erected in 1840, and makes him a substantial, commodious and pleasant home. He has ever been a warm patron of education, and has for, years been connected with the Charity School of this place, in the capacity of President and Trustee, but resigned these positions recently, on account of ill-health. He has also been Director in the Massillon Union School for eighteen years. For many years he was a member of the City Council of Massillon, and altogether his name has been closely connected with the interests of this place for nearly sixty years. His friends are legion, for he has been a resident of Stark City for about eighty years. Although he has passed the eighty-second milestone of his life, his intellect is clear and sound, and does not show in the slightest degree the "ravages of
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time." He has always thrown his influence on the side of justice and right, and been one of the foremost and most liberal supporters of worthy public enterprises, churches especially being the recipients of his bounty. In his political views, he has always been in sympathy with the Republican party, in the tenets and doctrines of which he is a firm believer and supporter, and this party showed its appreciation of the influence he exerted in its behalf, by electing him to the House in the State Legislature in 1846, which position he ably filled one term. In 1860, he was honored by a second election to the Senate of Ohio, and served four years, beginning in 1860, and was an able, faithful and incorruptible Legislator. This was the most exciting time in the history of the State, but, as usual, Mr. Harsh acquitted himself with credit, and to the satisfaction of his constituents. He was Chairman of the Committee on Claims and Public Works in the Senate, and a member on other important committees, and was one of the men to elect John T. Sherman to the United States Senate for his first term. he was also a Director of the Ohio Penitentiary for the years 1867 to 1873, inclusive.
Mr. Harsh was first married to Miss Susanna Stoakley, a native of Stark County, and has one grandchild, Fannie H., wife of I. E. Pierce, of Dayton, Ohio. His second marriage was to Miss Jane E. Smith, and his third to Miss Sarah E. McCarthy, who is now deceased. He has no children living. Throughout Stark County his name is a synonym for integrity, generosity and kindness.
JAMES S. BEAZEL. It is not necessary for a visitor in the rural districts to understand agriculture in order that he may know the good farmers in a section. The sight of tumble-down fences, machinery exposed to the weather, and inadequate shelter for stock and crop, is sufficient to stamp the proprietor of a farm as one lacking in enterprise and judgment. Well built farm structures, neat fences and fields, where useful grain has the upper hand of the weeds, are equally conclusive proof of the skill and energy of him under whose management this state of things exists.
The subject of this notice is numbered among the enterprising farmers of Bethlehem Township, where he has a fine farm of one hundred and sixty-five acres located on section 23. He was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., February 6, 1833, and is the son of John N. and Sarah (Shepher) Beazel, also natives of the Keystone State, and both it is said are of Swiss descent. When a lad of thirteen years, our subject, in company with his father and mother, emigrated to this county, the journey being made overland in a covered wagon and buggy. They located upon the farm which is the present property of our subject, where they were ranked among the earliest settlers. The father built a hewed-log house in the woods, and the family endured all the hardships common to life in a new country.
The original of this sketch was one in a family of eleven children, of whom the following survive: Mathew, Mary, James S., Clara, Mrs. H. Vandorsten, William N. and Harvey T. The husband and father departed this life April 11, 1851, and in his death the county lost one of its best citizens. His wife, who survived him in many years, passed to the land beyond in 1873.
James S. Beazel grew to manhood amid the pioneer scenes of this county, and has done his share in opening up the country for those who should follow. Like most of the farmer lads, he obtained his education in the district school, and for fourteen winters taught school successfully in his neighborhood. He has always kept himself thoroughly posted in regard to what was going on about him, and has at all times been keenly alive to the interests of township and county, and has been an important factor in promoting them.
The lady to whom Mr. Beazel was married, in November, 1855, was Miss Louisa Meredith, a native of Coshocton County, this State, her birth occurring May 4,1833. She is the daughter of Job and Margaret (Aunspaugh) Meredith, and by her
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union with our subject became the mother of eleven children, all of whom are living with one exception. They bear the respective names of William A., Alice (Mrs. R. B. Fuller), John N., Henry H., Charles D., Clarence, Laura A., Luta, Blanch, Sarah P. and James S. Francis Albert is deceased.
Mr. Beazel is the proprietor of a valuable estate, which includes one hundred and sixty-five acres of well-tilled land, which is one of the best-managed in this portion of the county. He has been progressive in all things, accumulated a handsome property, and now ranks among the wealthy men of this county. He has been the recipient of public honor from his fellow-citizens, who have recognized his superior qualifications, and have called him to assist in the administration of public affairs. He served for some time as a member of the School Board, and politically is a stanch Prohibitionist. He is a member of the Church of God, towards the support of which he is a liberal and constant contributor, and as one of the self-made citizens of Stark County we are pleased to present his sketch in this volume.
LIEUT. THOMAS H. RUSSELL. The study of the careers of those who have been the architects of their own fortunes in the various departments of business, furnishes lessons of inestimable value to youths just entering their chosen professions and encourages them to greater efforts for success in life. The gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, and who is a member of the well-known firm of Russell & Co., at Massillon, has been successful in the best sense of that word, for he has not only accumulated a fortune, but has gained that which is better, the esteem of his large circle of acquaintances and the regard of every one with whom he has had business or social relations.
Born in Alstead, Cheshire County, N. H., May 15, 1828, our subject is the son of Cyrus and Louisa (Stratton) Russell, natives, respectively, of Weston and Lincoln, Mass. For a complete sketch of the parental family, the reader is referred to the biography of Joseph R. Russell, presented elsewhere in this volume. When an infant of one year, our subject was taken by his parent, to Vermont, where he passed his boyhood days in Sutton, Caledonia County. After completing the studies of the common school, he entered the Hancock (N. H.) Academy, where he remained for one year. He also worked for a short time in the Harrisvills Woolen Factory.
In 1847, Mr. Russell left Sutton and proceeded by canal from Troy to Buffalo, thence by steamer to Cleveland, and from that place by stage to Massillon, where his brothers were established in business as manufacturers of threshing-machines. He entered their shop on Erie Street and learned the machinist trade, with which he became so familiar that he was appointed superintendent of the machine shop, and became a stockholder in the same.
During 1863, Mr. Russell was a member of the Home Guards, in which he was Lieutenant. In May of the following year, he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio Infantry, and was mustered in as First Lieutenant at Columbus, where the company was stationed. In September, 1864, he was honorably discharged, and returning to Massillon, resumed his work as superintendent of the machine shop. He patented several articles, among them a concave adjuster, a vibrating screw, and the worm-beater, the latter being patented in 1890. He has always been interested in public enterprises, and was one of true organizers of the Massillon Electric Light, Heat and Power Company, in which he is a Director and stockholder.
At Massillon, September 13, 1853, Thomas H. Russell and Miss Eleanor Dunn were united in marriage. The father of Mrs. Russell, Edward Dun, was born in Ireland, whence he accompanied his parents to Philadelphia, and there found employment as a moulder in brass. When a young man, he carne to Ohio, where he was married. He purchased a farm in Tuscarawas County, which be commenced to improve, but died soon afterward of cholera, about 1831. The mother of Mrs. Russell
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bore the maiden name of Julia Fox, and wns born in Brookfield, Stark County. Her father, Jehial Fox, was born in Vermont, whence he removed to Essex County, N. Y., and was there married. In 1812, he came to Stark County with a wagon and team, and first engaged at his trade of a carpenter, but later bought twenty acres in the village of Brookfield, where he lived for several years. In 1826, he located in Kendall (now the Fourth Ward), and resided there for five years, when he removed to a thirty-five-acre farm in Perry Township, residing there until his death in 1859. He helped to build the locks in the canal, and was such a skillful workman that he could contrive anything for use at a house. His wife was known in maidenhood as Annie Doxsee, and was born in Essex County, N. Y.
After the death of the father of Mrs. Russell, her mother was again married, her second husband being Mr. Marsh, with whom she removed to Fredericksburg, Iowa, and there died in 1881, when about seventy years old. Mrs. Russell, the only child of the first marriage, was born in Tuscarawas County, but was reared in Massillon. She attended the first union school held in this place, which was also the first one in Ohio. She is a lady of refinement, a sincere Christian, and holds membership in the Presbyterian Church, where she has served as President of the Ladies' Society.
Mr. and Mrs. Russell have been bereaved by death of two children: Edward S., who died at the age of six years; and Nellie J., whose death occurred when she was four years old. The surviving members of the family are as follows: Warren E., Laura M and Hattie M. The only son was graduated from the High School of Massillon, later fitted for college at Gambier, and is a graduate of Amherst College. He finished his legal studies at the law department of Harvard College, and was admitted to practice at the Bar of the State. He commenced the practice of his profession in Salt Lake City, but on account of his father's illness returned to Massillon, and now has charge of the collecting department of Russell & Co. The two daughters are accomplished young ladies, both graduates of the female seminary at Northampton, Mass., and are now at home. The family abode is a commodious and elegantly furnished residence on the corner of Plum and Prospect Streets, and was erected in 1882 by Mr. Russell.
In political matters, Mr. Russell is a stanch Republican, and was elected on that ticket to the office of City Treasurer, in which capacity he served for several years. He is a mail of travel, and with his wife has visited many places of interest in the United Slates. In 1876, he attended the Centennial; in 1884, he made a trip to California, and six years afterward visited that State a second time. April 17, 1891, he was seized with a paralytic stroke, and for three mouths was unable to move. His robust constitution is gradually conquering the disease, and he is now rapidly regaining his strength. He is a man of unusual geniality of disposition, and his unfailing courtesy wins many friends, while his fine business talents command universal recognition.
PETER YODER, farmer and stockman. Stark County, Ohio is conspicuous for its magnificent farms, that are faultless in the way of management and the order in which they are kept, and those in Nimishillen Township are especially advantageously located, the hind being rolling and well watered, fertile and productive. Mr. Yoder's estate of three hundred and twenty-seven acres of fine land is located on section 36, and he is to be congratulated on the perfect method and order with which his agricultural affairs are conducted. He was born in Nimishillen Township, April 30, 1841, to Christian and Annie (Kloppenstein) Yoder, the former of whom was born in France, in August, 1811, and came to America when about twenty-three years of age, and in this country was married and reared his family of five children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the fourth, and of whom four are still living. Christian Yoder was well educated in his native land, and in time obtained enough money to enable him to purchase eighty acres of
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land in the same school district in which Peter Yoder his son, is now residing, but later sold it to purchase one hundred and sixty adjoining the latter's farm. Although a Republican, politically, he is not a politician. He was brought up in the Omish Church, and was elected to serve as a preacher, but upon refusing to do so, was thrown out of the society. His children were as follows: Christian, who died at the age of eighteen years; Anna (Mrs. Brumbaugh) lives in Louisville, and has one son, Oliver; Barbara married Isaac Markley, by whom she has one son, Elmer, and resides in Plain Township; Maria married Andrew Pontius, and lives in Louisville; and Peter, the subject of this biography. The paternal grandfather, Christian Yoder was Mayor of the city in which they lived in France, but came to America, and in this country was called from life.
Peter Yoder, in his youth, alternately assisted on the farm and attended the district school near his home, and being a boy of good mental abilities, he made fair progress in his studies. He remained with his father, assisting him on the home farm, until he was about twenty-seven years of age, and was given wages for his services after he had attained his majority. November 17, 1867, he was married to Miss Nancy Folk, of Nimishillen Township, born May 11, 1849, and a daughter of Peter and Lydia (Reese) Folk, both of whom were born in Stark County, and reside near Louisville. For one year after his marriage, Mr. Yoder resided with his parents, then with what money he had saved, and with some help from his father, he bought one hundred acres of hard where he now resides; the remainder of his land he has purchased in small tracts, until he now has his present large farm. he has built one of the handsomest houses in the vicinity, which was put up at a cost of $5,000. and contains all the modern conveniences. It is finely finished, tolls inside and out, and is attractive in design. he handles a good many cattle and sheep, feeding both for the market, which business he finds not only profitable but pleasing.
In his political sentiments, Mr. Yoder is a Republican, and, being a patron of education, he has been a member of the School Board for many years, and by the employment of good teachers, he has raised the standard of education in his section. He is decidedly progressive in his views, and is a member of the County Agricultural Society, of which he is an active and interesting member. He has eight children living: Ulysses S., born June 10, 1868, at home; Rheuhama, October 28, 1869; Ida, born November 10, 1870, died August 5, 1871; Forest born February 8, 1875; Joseph, October 7, 1876; Augusta M., January 7, 1878; Myron, December 16, 1879; Minnie, May 10, 1881; and Erma E., April 3, 1887.
J. P. YOCKEY, editor and proprietor of the Fulton Signal, published in Canal Fulton, Stark County, Ohio, is a native of the county in which he still makes his home. He was born in Lawrence Township in 1847, and is a son of Philip and Elizabeth Yockey, who were laboring people of Lawrence Township. At the early age of seven years, our subject was left an orphan and resided with relatives until twelve years of age, at which time he commenced working on a farm by the month, and for live years was in the employ of Christian Eschhman, a sketch of whom is given on another page of this work. To this gentleman Mr. Yockey owes a debt of gratitude for his judicious advice and aid. In the mind of the young lad he aroused ambitions for something higher, and helped him in carrying out Isis best desires.
At the age of nineteen years, Mr. Yockey entered the Smithville Academy, of Wooster, Ohio, where he remained for three years. During the winter season he engaged in teaching, and after completing his education, followed that profession for some years, meeting withi excellent success. In 1869, he became the Superintendent of the Canal Fulton Schools, remaining in charge for three years, after which he went to Doylestown, where he was also engaged in teaching for two years. In the year 1875, he returned to this place and entered upon his present business. He pur-
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chased the Herald, but changed the name of the paper to the Signal. Since that time, he has engaged in its publication. It is an excellent journal, devoted to home interests, literature and general news, and is well conducted. The editor is a ready and interesting writer, and his paper is a bright and newsy sheet. he has already secured a liberal patronage and the subscription list is constantly being enlarged. He also carries on a job office, and in this department does an excellent line of work.
On the 20th of September, 1877, Mr. Yockey was united in marriage with Miss Arabella Porter, daughter of John Porter, of Lawrence Township. She died in 1882, leaving one child, Leila Joy. Mr. Yockey has served as Township Clerk for two terms, and also filled the office of Clerk of the School Board for several years, his public duties being faithfully performed. He is a friend to education and has the best interests of the community at heart. In all works of advancement and progress, he is found in the front rank, doing all in his power to promote the general welfare. He is a thorough gentleman, who commands the confidence and respect of the people, and his sterling worth has won him high regard.
SIMON JOHNSON, Superintendent of the Water Works of Alliance, has the honor of being a native of this county. He was born November 12, 1825, and is a son of Simon and Mary K. (White) Johnson. The John son ancestors were members of the Society of Friends, and the maternal grandfather was a Baptist minister. The parents of our subject emigrated to the Buckeye State in 1825, locating in Washington Township, Stark County. There were then but four families in the township, a few Indians were still in the county, and wild game of all descriptions roamed in the forest. In the midst of the timber, Mr. Johnson hewed out a farm and followed agricultural pursuits throughout the greater part of his life. About three years prior to his death, he removed to Alliance.
Our subject is one of a family of four sons and five daughters. In the usual manner of farmer lads, he was reared to manhood. He attended the public schools of Mt. Union and was the first student to recite a lesson to Prof. Hartshorn, of that school he also attended Marlborough Academy and further pursued his studies in Salem, after which he taught school for one term in Washington County, Pa. He then followed farming until his marriage, which was celebrated on the 3d of April, 1851, Miss Jane Teeters becoming his wife. Unto them were born live children: J. Howard; Rosetta and L. M., both deceased; Mary K. and William W. The last-named resides in Chattanooga, Tenn. Mary, the only daughter. was appointed an operator in the Bell Telephone office, of Alliance, on its introduction here, and subsequently became general manager, being the only lady manager of the concern in the State.
For eight years after his marriage, Mr. Johnson was a resident of Knox Township, and during three years of that time served as Justice of the Peace. In 1859, he came to Alliance. He had a contract to supply a large amount of wood to a company, and got out eight thousand cords. During the war, he bought horses and dealt in stock. In 1861, he was elected Mayor of Alliance, and held that office for two years, when he was elected Justice of the Pence, serving three years. He was then re-elected Mayor for two years, after which he traveled for the Forest City Insurance Company as General Agent for five years. Once more he was elected Mayor, and field the office for three successive terms, or six years, having served altogether in that position for a decade. He was then employed by the Water Works Committee as Managing Agent, holding that position until July, 1890, when he was elected Superintendent, which position he now fills. In 1866, he embarked in the insurance business, which he continued until becoming Superintendent of the Water Works, when he turned over the business to his son, John H., who now conducts it and has one of the best agencies in the State.
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In his social relations, Mr. Johnson is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Honor. Himself and wife are members of the Disciples Church. he is held in the highest regard throughout the community, and has the confidence and good will of all. That he is quite popular is shown by his repeated re-election to the office of Mayor, and this fact also indicates the promptness anti fidelity with which he discharged the duties of his office.
GEORGE W. MEYER is the agent for the estate belonging to the Meyer heirs, and resides at his pleasant home a about a mile from the city of Canton. He was born on the old homestead in this county, March 2, 1863, and is the fourth in order of birth in a family of five children. The parents, Joseph and Catherine Meyer, were both natives of the city of Baltimore, Did. The former was born in 1812, and with his father, Andrew Meyer, came to Stark County, Ohio, when a boy. he was reared upon a farm, and after attaining to man's estate, returned to Baltimore, where he was married. With his bride, he then carne again to Stark County and settled on a farm near Meyer Lake, the old homestead which his father laid located. Here he carried on general farming and was one of the principal sheep raisers in tins part of the country, owning as many as seven hundred head of sheep at one time. he was successful in his business dealings, and as his financial resources increased, he made judicious investments in land near Canton, purchasing one tract of two hundred and twenty-five acres, which he owned at the time of his death. He also bought a home and fifteen acres of land in Canton, and there resided until called to his final restt in 1869. He had previously sold some of this town lots, but Mrs. Meyer still resides at the old homestead at No. 151 West Tuscarawas Street. The house is surrounded by commodious grounds, comprising an acre and a half, on which stand some of the natural oaks of the forest. Mr. Meyer as a man of great force of character, and of keen foresight, and won excellent success. In politics, he was a stanch Democrat, and was a member of the Catholic Church.
The children of the family are Elizabeth O., wife of John F. Blake, Mayor of the City of Canton; Edward J., a resident farmer of this county; Catherine, who resides with her mother; George W. of this sketch; and Henry C., wino makes his home in Canton.
Our subject began his education in the city schools of Canton, and was afterward a student in Emmitsburg, Md., for four years. In company with two of his brothers, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres at Meyer Lake, which he improved and transformed into a summer resort, one of the finest in the State. They there erected a boat-house and billiard halls, laid out a race track, and added many other attractions and improvements. A street-car line has been built from the city and runs to the lake, a distance of about two miles. The farm of two hundred and twenty-five acres, which was purchased by the father of our subject, has been platted and laid out by the Meyer heirs into one thousand lots, very desirable for residences. A number of homes have already been erected. The lots are offered at reasonable prices and are in every way suitable for pleasant homes. George Meyer is sole agent and manager of the estate.
The Meyer heirs have been very liberal in aiding in the upbuilding of the enterprises calculated to improve and benefit the community. They donated the twenty acres of land upon which has been built the Dueber Watch Works, which furnish employment to from fifteen hundred to two thousand men and women. They have also given liberally to other manufacturing industries and donated the land for the Meyer Park, which extends from Adams to South Street.
In the year 1887, George W. Meyer was married to Miss Helen Shriver, one of the fair daughters of Canton, which is the lady's native city. They have a beautiful home on his farm one mile west of the city, comprising one hundred and twelve acres of choice and highly improved land. Their
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home is one of the neatest and most substantial country residences between Canton and Massillon, and its hospitable doors are ever open for the reception of their friends, who are many.
GEORGE N, SCHLICHTER. A long residence in a community gives to an individual a standing which can scarcely be acquired otherwise, especially if he has made for himself a good record as a citizen. These thoughts are suggested by reviewing the career of Mr. Schlichter, who was born in this county, November 29, 1824, and having been a continuous resident of Sugar Creek Township for almost sixty-eight years, has thus become widely and favorably known to the people of this region, and the fact that he is uniformly well spoken of is sufficient indication of his true character. He possesses those genial and companionable qualities which are n free passport to the esteem and confidence of mankind, when supplemented by integrity and intelligence.
George and Sarah Schlichter, parents of our subject, were natives of Pennsylvania, and in 1824 emigrated to this county and located on an unimproved tract of land in Sugar Creek Township, which is the property of our subject at the present time. Their first home was in a log cabin, where the family resided until the land was cleared and a more suitable structure could be put in readiness for them. Here the father worked industriously until his decease, which occurred in 1862.
Our subject is the only surviving member of the parental family, and was reared to man's estate in this county, trained to habits of industry and usefulness and in the sentiments of honor, which had been his throughout life. He attended the district school near his home, and, like the children of all early settlers, enjoyed but limited opportunities for adding to that scant education. In the intervals of school life, he bore a share in the development of the home farm, and in this manner was thoroughly fitted to carry on an estate of his own.
August 24, 1852, he was united in marriage with miss Sarah Nichols, also a native of this county, and by their union has been born a family of seven children, of whom the three living are known as William W., Franklin and Laura. William W. married Miss Samantha Eberly, by whom he has one son. Mr. Schlichter owns a quarter-section of land, which is one of the finest farms in the county, being adorned with a commodious residence and convenient barns and other buildings. Our subject casts his vote for the nominees of the Democratic party, and his life has been characterized by industry, punctuality find honesty, traits which always insure success, and he has prospered abundantly.
DAVID SMITH. Canton Township is the home of many successful farmers, but none more prosperous than the gentleman above named, who is one of the wealthy residents of the county, owning and operating a fine estate just outside the corporate limits of the city of Canton. It consists of one hundred acres on section 8, all of which is under excellent tillage and improved with all that goes to make up a well-cultivated farm. A visitor to his home will see that he has not only erected good buildings, and has his farm well supplied with modern machinery, but that he keeps excellent grades of stock.
Our subject, who is a son of Jacob Smith, was born on his present farm September 16, 1826. His father was born in Pennsylvania and was of German descent. He was a farmer by occupation and came to this State as early as 1814, making the journey overland with a wagon. His first location was east of Canton, whence he later removed to what is now the property of our subject. The country roundabout at that time was sparsely settled and in a wild condition. He built a log house, where he resided for some time, and later, removing to where the waterworks are now located, erected a flaxseed mill and at the
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