CITY OF CANTON - 625 with Judge Potter, and in 1867 was admitted to the bar. In 1868, he commenced the practice of his profession in Alliance, where he remained for nine years, achieving a large and successful practice and serving in many offices of public trust. He was Register in Bankruptcy from 1869 until 1875, when he resigned; he served as Prosecuting Attorney for Stark County in 1874-75, and also as Mayor and City Solicitor of the city of Alliance. He removed to Canton in 1877, where we still find him occupying an advanced position among the legal fraternity. He was united in marriage in 1869, to Miss Emma J. Brooks, of Warren, Ohio. They have three children—Joseph J., Mary B. and Helen A. W. B. PERKINS & CO., books, stationery and wall paper, No. 4, Opera Building, Canton. The above is the leading house, in their line, in Canton. This business was established in 1869, under the firm name of Perkins & Weston, which association continued until 1874, when Mr. Weston retired, and C. F. Perkins became a member of the firm. Their stock is very complete and extensive, embracing a large line of wall paper, frames, moldings, etc., and all of the current literature of the day with the leading periodicals and newspapers. The gentlemen comprising the firm are courteous and agreeable, and are extending their trade and sales each year. W. B. Perkins, senior partner, is a native of New Bedford, Mass., and prior to coining to Ohio, was engaged in the hardware trade in Boston, Mass. In 1867, he removed to the West, locating in Mansfield, Ohio, and engaged in the hardware trade there, remaining two years. In 1869, he came to Canton, since which time he has been one of the leading business men there. He was married in 1870, to Miss Mary A. Louden, of Zanesville, Ohio. They have two children, Ed. L. and Helen. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity and of the K. of H. C. F. Perkins is also a native of Massachusetts, and was educated for the law. He is a graduate of the Law Department of Harvard College, and was admitted for practice in Massachusetts. In 1871, he came to Canton and joined the bar there, continuing in practice until he entered mercantile life with his brother. WILLIAM J. PIERO, lawyer, Canton, and present Mayor, is a native of Canton, and son of Francis I. and Julia A. (Krantz) Piero. His father is a native of Alsace, France ; his mother of Germany. They both came to Stark Co. with their parents at an early day, were married in 1842, and are still residents of the county. His father has been a business man of Canton for many years. William is the sixth child of a family of nine children, eight of whom are now living and residents of Canton. He received a good education in the schools of Canton, and at the age of 17 entered the law office of Judge Meyer, remaining with him for two years, at the expiration of which time, not being of sufficient age to be admitted to the bar, he engaged as clerk in a clothing store, and had the benefit of one and one half years of mercantile life. Again entering the law office, and reviewing his studies, was admitted to the bar upon attaining his majority, Sept. 17, 1874. He immediately began the practice of his profession, and the following spring was elected Justice of the Peace, serving for three years. In 1878, he formed a partnership with C. T. Meyer, and since that time has been occupied with the duties of his profession. In the spring of 1881, he was elected Mayor of Canton upon the Democratic ticket. Mr. Piero has, with his partner, Mr. Meyer, a fine and growing law practice, and is one of the rising young lawyers and politicians of Northern Ohio. In the administration of the affairs of the responsible position to which he has been elected, his judgments meet with universal approval, and his aim is to establish some needed reforms in the city's government. Socially, Mr. Piero stands without a peer in the county, and his genial and hospitable manners secure him hosts of friends and increase the popularity which he has so justly gained. JOHN R. POYSER, contractor and builder, Canton ; is a native of Stark Co., Ohio ; he was born in Sugar Creek Tp. Dec. 9, 1825, and is third in a family of thirteen children born to Joseph and Martha (Reed) Poyser. They were natives of Pennsylvania. He came to Stark Co. in the year 1811, with his father, Joseph Poyser, who settled northwest of Canton, and soon after moved into Sugar Creek. Martha Reed also settled in Sugar Creek with her parents at an early day. Joseph Poyser followed farming in the county until his death, in 1877 ; Mrs. Poyser died in 1878. Our subject lived at home twenty years ; he then went to the carpenter,s trade with J. B. Hoover, of 626 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Canton, with whom he remained four years ; he then worked two years with Mr. Peter Myers, after which he began contracting and building on his own account, and has followed the business since, during which time he has built over 250 houses, including many. of the leading business blocks and residence property of the city. He has served, and is now, a member of the City Council. He married Miss Mary Mellen Oct. 28, 1852. She is a native of New Jersey, and came to Stark Co., Ohio, with her parents, when young. Of their four children, two are living, viz.: William J. and Ella J. JOHN ROBBINS & SONS, Eagle Woolen Mills, Canton. The Eagle Woolen Mills, now owned and operated by James and John Robbins, Jr., is the outgrowth of one of Canton,s oldest manufacturing institutions. John Robbins, Sr., (retired) was born in Gloucestershire, England, in 1807. His father was a manufacturer of woolen goods, in which business he soon became thoroughly skilled, and, after which, he, in 1830, emigrated to the United States. For about ten years he spent his time principally in the factories of the Eastern States. In 1842, he returned to England, and married Miss Martha Marshall, of Yorkshire. Returning to America, they became residents of Ohio, in 1842, and in 1843, they removed to Canton, when 'Mr. Robbins leased a woolen factory of Mr. F. A. Snyder, for five years. He then leased a building of Jacob Sprankle, in which he did business for about thirteen years, when his business was suddenly stopped by the building and all its contents being destroyed by fire. By this misfortune, Mr. Robbins lost $30,000, which was the accumulated earnings of years. Applying to the citizens of Canton, Mr. Robbins quickly found friends to advance him $20,000. With this sum he built the Eagle Woolen Mills, and business was again resumed in his name, but was afterward changed to Robbins & Miller, who organized the Eagle Woolen Mills Company. They in turn were superseded by John, Jr., and James Robbins, under the firm name of Robbins Bros. The mill is now fitted up with two sets of forty-eight inch cards. One self-operating English mule of 408 spindles, and one hand mule of 360 spindles. They have a capacity of using 350 pounds of wool per day, and employ about twenty operatives. They are now making a specialty of the manufacture of stocking yarns. John, the elder of the two brothers, was educated in the Canton schools, and learned his trade with his father. In 1876, he went to Denver, Colorado, expecting to engage in the manufacturing business in that State. Becoming satisfied that the investment would not be a judicious one, he went to Georgetown, of that State, where, upon the opening of the Merchants' Bank of that town, he took the position of cashier. Six months later, when their charter was changed to the Merchants' National Bank, he still retained his position. In the winter of 1878, his health became so poor as to oblige him to resign, after which he returned to Canton. He has made two trips to Europe : first, in 1872, and again in 1874. He is a member of Canton Commandery No. 4, and—a bachelor. James Robbins, the younger brother, has spent most of his life in Canton. After enjoying the advantage of the schools of Canton, he attended and graduated from the Iron City Business College of Pittsburgh. John, Jr., also graduated from the same college. James is a quiet, unassuming kind of man, yet endowed with much energy, and something of his ancestors' determination to succeed. All the details of the business are familiar to him, and every day finds him busy at his post. He is a member of Eagle Lodge, No. 431. A., F. & A. M. JOHN P. REX, merchant, Canton, who, so far as can be learned, has now been connected with the mercantile interests of Canton for a greater number of years than any of the merchants now engaged in active business, is a native of Canton, and was born on Feb. 3, 1816. The name of Rex is of English origin, and so far back as the genealogy of the family may be traced, Mr. Rex is a descendant of one of four brothers who emigrated from England, one of whom settled in the South, and the other three In Pennsylvania. A tracement of the line of descent shows Mr. Rex to be a descendant of the one of these brothers who settled in Northampton, Penn. The father of John P.; Mr. Jacob Rex, became a resident of Canton as early as 1815. He at once engaged in the business of tailoring, which he conducted for many years. He was a man who became an active member of the community. Always temperate, he early became identified with and became an active, earnest worker in church affairs. He was one of the organizers of the German Lutheran Church, though he subsequently be- CITY OF CANTON - 627 came a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he was connected at his death, which occurred in the spring of 1876, aged 83 years. John P. received most of his education through the old subscription system, and early learned the trade of a tailor with his father, and, in 1840, became interested with him in business at the old stand, which is still occupied as a merchant tailoring establishment, and conducted by John R. Rex & Company. The members of the firm being none others than John P. and his son, John It., the latter being the active member of the firm and his father's successor, after the manner of the change in the firm of one generation preceding him. John P. has never been an active politician, though he has repeatedly been urged to become a candidate for different offices in the county. He has taken a deep interest in all affairs pertaining to the growth of Canton and the prosperity of her citizens. He has been successful without becoming conspicuous, and the result of his industry and frugality has been a competency. He is recognized as one of Canton’s oldest merchants, and is held in high esteem by the community, as one of its successful and honored citizens. JOHN N. RAMSEY, County Auditor, Canton ; successor to William A. Creech, for a three years' term of Auditor of Stark County ; is a native of Lawrence Co., Penn. His early life was spent on a farm, but after having acquired a fair education he engaged in teaching school, which was his first venture in business on his own account. In 1855, he came to Stark County and settled in Alliance. He had learned the trade of a carpenter, and for about two years following his locating in that place he was engaged in carpenter's work. He then began merchandising, in which he was engaged for about two years, when he again resumed carpentering. His next step was to engage in the business of merchant tailoring. Again he changed to carpentering and contracting, and also in the business of undertaking. Since becoming a resident of the county he has taken more or less of an active part in political affairs. His friendship sought, and his true worth learned by leading and prominent men of the county, he was led to consent to becoming the Republican candidate for the office of honor and trust that he now occupies, to which he was elected by a majority of 250 votes, and entered upon the discharge of his duties on Nov. 9, 1880. In 1859, he was married to Miss Mary A., daughter of Samuel A. Rockhill, an old and prominent pioneer of Stark County. In 1858, he joined Alliance Lodge, No. 262, of the I. O. O. F., with which order he is still identified. He is also a member of the Grand Lodge of the State. DR. W. E. RUKENBROD. physician, Canton ; was born in Carrollton, Carroll Co., Ohio, Dec. 8, 1850, where he lived twelve years, when his parents moved to Salem. He remained at that place receiving his education in the Union Schools, and came to Canton in 1875. He was apprenticed to the machinist's trade at the age of 17, at the Buckeye Engine Works at Salem, completing his apprenticeship in three years, when he commenced reading medicine ( in 1870) with Dr. R. B. Rush of Salem, and graduated in 1875 from the Pulte Medical College of Cincinnati, and while at Cincinnati he also took the Clinical Course at the Cincinnati Hospital. For two years previous to his graduation, he practiced under Dr. Rush, and for a few months after graduating, he had charge of Dr. Rush's practice during his absence in Europe. After the return of Dr. Rush he came to Canton ( in the fall of 1875 ) and has practiced here since. He is a member of the American Institute of Homoeopathy ; Homoeopathic Medical Society of Ohio, and Homoeopathic Medical Society of Northeastern Ohio ; of the latter he has served as Secretary, and is now its President. July 11, 1878, he married Miss Kate Jackson, a daughter of Mr. C. H. Jackson, of Canton, Ohio. They have one child—Cornelius. WILLIAM W. REED, farmer ; P. O. Canton; was born in Canton Nov. 6, 1828 ; son of John and Mary ( Poyser) Reed, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania. The former came to this county in 1813, with his parents, who settled in Sugar Creek Township, his father being the third permanent settler—he lived there until his death at the advanced age of 84 years. John Reed, the father of our subject, was a harness-maker, and after remaining at home some years after his majority, came to Canton and engaged in the first shop of that kind in the place. After the death of his father his mother came to Canton and made her home with him until her death. He died in Canton at the age of 83, a respected citizen. His wife 628 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: died a few years previous at the age of 75 years. William W. lived at home until he was 22, receiving a limited education in the schools of the time. At the age of 14 he went into his father's shop and soon became master of the trade. He was married in July, 1850, to Miss Elizabeth A. Wise, a native of Stark County. Her father,Adam Wise, came from Pennsylvania and settled in Plain Township at an early day, being one of the pioneers of that locality. Our subject farmed three years near Canton after his marriage, when he moved to Plain Township and engaged in farming, remaining there five years and then returning to Canton, and engaging again at his trade, continuing the same until 1880, when he retired, and has since devoted his time to his farming interests. With the exception of six years in the School Board, he has held no office. He was a Whig, and Republican after the organization of the party; was anti-slavery in his views, and a member of the Baptist Church for many years. He had a family of seven children, five of whom are living, viz.: Joseph, Edward, Alice, William and Harry. DAVID RAUK, miller, Buckeye Mills, Canton ; was born in Franklin Co., Penn., Oct, 23, 1835. His father was a miller, and when our subject was 12 years old, they moved to Fulton Co., Penn., where his father ran a mill, he working in it also. In 1851, they moved to Summit Co., Ohio, conducting the milling business, and also farming in the south part of the county. After working in mills in different places in Summit and Stark cos., including several years in Massillon, he came to Canton, and, in company with his brother Henry, bought the present Buckeye Mills, which contain six run of buhrs. In 1878, subject bought out his brother, and conducted it alone until Jan. 1, 1881, when he sold a half interest to his brother Elliott and his brother-in-law, Z. S. Mahon. He was married May 30, 1866, to Miss Margaret J. Mahon. They have five children, viz.: Ira M., Otis M., Levett M., Oran W. and Irma, all of whom are at home. UPTON W. RAUK, firm of Corl & Rank, Canton City Mills, Canton; is a native of Pennsylvania ; he was born in Franklin Co. Nov. 20, 1849, and came to Stark Co., Ohio, with his parents in 1851. Our subject was principally raised on a farm; his father was a miller, and also carried on a farm. In 1870, U. W. went into his brother's mill at Massillon, to learn the trade, after which, in company with John Davis, he took charge of the Union Mills of Massillon, which they continued two years. He then came to Canton, and engaged in the flour and feed business, in company with his father. After one year, he went to Cleveland and conducted the flour and feed business for three years; the two latter years on his own account. He then came to Canton, and, in company with his brother-in-law, Mr. Corl, bought the Canton City Mills. which have five run of stone, and a capacity of sixty barrels daily. WILLIAM RAUK, foreman paint department C. Aultman & Co., Canton ; is a native of Canton, Ohio, and was born Sept. 20, 1832; is the second of eleven children born to George and Henrietta (Emich) Rauk. Subject lived at home and was brought up to the carpenter's trade, receiving, in the meantime, a common school education. At 19, he began working at painting, which business he has ever since followed. In 1858, he engaged with C. Aultman & Company, working at painting in their shops, and soon after he was made foreman, a position he still holds, and fills acceptably. Of late years, there are from fifty to sixty men in his department. In 1864, he enlisted in the 162d O. N. G., and served 100 days, and was 1st Sergeant of Co. B. Jan. 19, 1860, he was married to Miss Mary M. Chilson, a native of Astabula Co. By this marriage there was one child—Warren A. He is Republican in politics, and an attendant at the Presbyterian Church, but not a member. JOHN F. RAYNOLDS, proprietor and manager of Canton Gaslight Co., was born Nov. 26, 1817, in Canton, and is the third in the family of six children, born to William and Betsey S. '(Fisk) Raynolds, who were natives of Virginia and Rhode Island respectively. His father was born in 1789, and was the son of Maj. William Raynolds, a native of Virginia, and came to Ohio in 1802, settling in Zanesville. He served in Gen. Cass, Brigade, and was at the surrender of Hull at Detroit, where he contracted a disease from which he died in 1814. He was living at Zanesville when he volunteered under Cass, and was Captain of a company of volunteer infantry which he raised. His son, William, came to Stark Co. when a young man, about 1808, and in 1811 was married to Elizabeth Fisk, a daughter of John CITY OF CANTON - 629 Fisk, a sea captain from Baltimore, who came to Stark Co. in 1810 to invest in lands. After a few years he started again for the sea, but died in Baltimore about the year 1816. His remains were afterward brought to Canton. After marriage Mr. Raynolds dealt in lands, and built the large flour and woolen mill, two miles south of Canton. He served as Deputy Clerk and Recorder for James Harris, his brother-in-law, who upon coming of age was appointed Clerk and Recorder. M. R. had six children—George died in Akron ; Rebecca married Dr. Wallace, of Canton, and both are dead ; J. F.; Wm. F., Colonel of Engineer Corps ; Harris ; and Cora, deceased. John F. lived at home until he was 12 years of age, when his father died. He then went to live with his uncle, two miles south of Canton, remaining there until 18 years of age, clerking in the store and attending school a few terms, and one three month's term at an academy, that being the whole amount of his schooling. When 18, he went to New York City, and clerked in a wholesale store one year, when he returned to Canton, and engaged in the dry goods business on his own account. He afterward spent five years in business at Canal Fulton, then returned to Canton, resuming his old business, dry goods, and afterward embarked in hardware, continuing until 1869. In 1856, he organized and built the Canton Gaslight & Coke Co., of which he was President, withdrawing some years later. In 1869, he bought the remaining stock of the Gaslight Company, and has since had the entire control of the business. He was a Whig, and then a Republican, in politics, and decidedly anti-slavery. He has been a member of the PresbyChurch for thirty years. He was married April 23, 1839, to Miss Margaret Faber, a native of Franklin Co., Penn. They have had seven children, four of whom are living. MADISON RAYNOLDS, retired, Canton ; was born in Zanesville, Ohio, March 20, 1808, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Miller) Raynolds, who were natives of Virginia, where they were married in the year 1802. With a family of four children, they started for the Scioto Valley, Ohio, where a brother and sister of Mrs. Raynolds lived. But owing to the inclemency of the season they stopped at Zanesville, where they lived until the death of Mr. Raynolds in 1814. During the war of 1812, he raised a company of infantry, of which he was made Captain. He served under Gen. Cass, rose to the rank of Major and was at Hull’s surrender at Detroit. His son George was also in the army, serving in a company of calvary. After Major Raynolds death, his widow came to Canton, where she lived until her death, May 20, 1843, aged upward of 70 years. Madison, our subject, was raised in Zanesville until he was 8 years old, when he came to Canton with his mother, as above. He lived here until he was 15, when he went to Judge Henry's and clerked in his store about six months, then he went to Steubenville, remaining there about six months in a store. He next went with his brother-in-law, John Laird, to Dover, now Dalton, where they were engaged for two years in mercantile business, when he returned to Canton. Here, in company with John Harris. he opened a store on the west half of the present court house lot. He was identified with the mercantile business of Canton for some thirty years, retiring from the business about the year 1853, and entering into the grain trade ; he and Mr. Kaufman building the " one hundred mile warehouse." Mr. Raynolds remained in the grain trade some eight or ten years, when he became actuary of the Eagle Woolen Mills, and after two years retired from active business life. Sept. 29, 1833, he was married to Miss Sarah Slusser, a native of Canton. By this marriage there were seven children, four of whom are living, viz.: Jefferson lives at Las Vega, New Mexico ; Joshua S., Georgetown, Colo. ; Frederick A., Canon City, Colo., and Albert H. All are married except the latter, and all are bankers. Mr. Raynolds has always been a Whig and Republican in politics. His wife is a Presbyterian, and he attends the same church though not a member. JOHN P. RAUCH, of J. P. Rauch & Co., millers, Canton ; is a native of Columbiana Co., Ohio. He was born Aug. 31, 1840, and came to Paris, Stark Ca, with his parents in the spring of 1847. He is the second in a family of nine children born to John Peter and Sarah (Smith) Rauch. They were natives of Lehigh Co., Penn., and Columbiana Co., Ohio. ' He was a farmer, and moved to Columbiana Co., Ohio, in the year 1812, and to Stark Co. in .1847. He was injured in a horse-power while threshing, and died from the effects in 1865. Mrs. Rauch is now living fn Canton. Our sub- 630 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: ject remained at home on the farm twenty-eight years. He received a course of study in the district schools also at the union schools of Lisbon, Ohio. He also taught in all some eight terms. September 17, 1868, he married Miss Gray, a native of Columbiana Co., Ohio. He then assisted on his father-in-law's farm, and bought and shipped fruit East. In January, 1876, he came to Canton and entered the duties of the office of County Sheriff, he being elected on the Democratic ticket,and was re-elected in 1877. Since the expiration of his term of office, he has been interested as a partner in the milling business, the firm of J. P. Rauch & Co. conducting the Stark Mills. At the Democratic County Convention of 1881, he was nominated for County Treasurer. By the marriage there are five children—Bertha G., Anna M., William W., Ruth A. and Helen. GEORGE REX, Assistant Superintendent at C. Aultman & Co., Canton ; is a native of Canton, Ohio. He was born April 26, 1842, and received his schooling in his native city. At the age of 18, he apprenticed with C. Aultman & Co. as a machinist, and in August, 1862, he enlisted in the 115th O. V. I., continuing in service until June 25, 1865, when he was mustered out, and returned to Canton, resuming his place with C. Aultman & Co., and has continued with the company since, having held the positions of inspector, foreman of finishing department, and, for the past five or six years, his present position. WASHINGTON R. REEVES, retired, Canton ; is a native of Greene Co., Penn.; he was born May 11, 1817. His parents, William and Elizabeth (Umstead) Reeves, moved to Holmes Co., Ohio, in 1821, where William Reeves died the following year ; Mrs. Reeves afterward married Mr. John Brown ; they finally settled at Old Rochester, where they died. Some three or four years afterfather,sher's death, our subject was bound out to John Garver, at Rogersville, and lived there seven years, when, after living one year with his step-father, he went to Massillon, where he apprenticed to the carpenter's trade ; his health failing some two years later, he went tobrother,s,er's, in Pennsylvania, and learned the stone cutting trade. In 1837; he came to Navarre, Ohio ; in 1838, he cut stone for the aqueduct on the canal at Dresden. April 7, 1839, he married Miss Ann Baxter, a native of Canton, Ohio ; he then lived in Can ton one year, thence moved to Salem, thence to Navarre, working in the foundry for William L. Wann some ten years, being Superintendent some seven or eight years of that time ; he then carried on the saw-mill business in Tuscarawas and Franklin Counties some six years, when he came to Canton, and began work as a hand in the foundry of John Laird, and after one year lie became foreman, which office he held six years ; he then, in company with Mr. David Hammond, began building iron bridges, working Laird's foundry, and later built a shop of their own, still later forming a stock company, in which our subject continued his interest until about 1870 ; during his connection with the business he served as Superintendent ; the business is now known as the Canton Iron Bridge Company. In May, 1881, Mr. Reeves passed his 50th year since he first came to Stark Co. He is a Republican in politics. SAMUEL H. ROCKHILL, Principal S. W. Grammar School, Canton ; is a native of Stark Co., Ohio ; he was born Nov. 10, 1835, and is the tenth child born to Samuel A. and Nancy (Bryan) Rockhill, who had twelve children ; they were natives of Burlington Co., N. J., and were early settlers in Stark Co., Ohio. Our subject lived at home with his parents until he was about 17 years of age ; he received a course of study in the district schools, and at the age of 17 began teaching school, from that time on taking care of himself teaching winters, and attending school summers, for some ten years, during which time he took an extended course of study in the Mt. Union Seminary. A\ about the age of 27, he began farming and dealing in stock. In August, 1865, he married Miss Maggie King, a native of Chester Co., Penn.; she came to Mahoning Co., Ohio, with her parents, and was engaged in teaching in Stark Co. at the time of her marriage. Our subject continued his business about seven years after his marriage, when he came to Canton and engaged in the grocery business with George W. Lawrence ; they continued three years ; he then went to New Jersey, and farmed for three years in Camden Co., where he yet owns a farm which he conducts, hiring the labor, and raising sweet potatoes, furnishing about 100 barrels per annum to the Canton market. From New Jersey he returned to Canton, and took charge of his school, which he has taught since. In January, 1881, he became a partner in the firm of Erwin & CO., CITY OF CANTON - 631 doing a furniture business in Canton. Mr. Rockhill has a family of three children, viz. : Charles S., Harry K. and Mary F. HARRIS RAYNOLDS (deceased), was a son of William and Betsy S. (Fisk) Raynolds, mentioned elsewhere in this work. Our subject was born in Canton, Ohio, and reared in his native city, where he became identified with its mercantile interests for many years, and, finally, owing to failing health, he engaged in farming, after which he returned to Canton, where he lived mainly retired from active business until his death, in May, 1873. Mrs. Isabella Raynolds, his wife, was a daughter of Thomas and Isabella (McConnel) Commins ; she was born in Pennsylvania, near Shippensburg, in 1831, and came to Massillon, Stark Co., Ohio, in 1832. Her father concluded the mercantile business in that city, and was also identified with the millibg interests of that vicinity ; he was a soldier in the war of 1812, and in later years moved to Iowa, where he died. Mrs. Raynolds and her two children are living in the old home at Canton. HORACE SOMERS, druggist, Canton. Among the young and enterprising business men of Canton we find none more worthy of mention than the subject of this sketch. He is a native of the Buckeye State ; has had the advantages in education of a classical course in the University of Wooster, and of an advanced course in chemistry. In business life, he began as a clerk in a drug store in Burbank, Wayne Co., going from there to Delavan, Ohio, where he was engaged in the same capacity and business for three years ; and then in Philadelphia, where for a short period he was engaged in the retail drug trade. In 1880, his business connection with Canton commenced, and is proving successful and increasing. His place of business is at 59 East Tuscarawas street,where he has a pleasant room, and an extensive and complete stock of drugs, medicines and sundries. Mr. Somers is a pleasant and agreeable gentleman, possessing good business attributes, and endowed with enterprising ideas, which will, in time, place him in the front rank among the successful self-made business men of Canton. HON. THOMAS C. SNYDER, manufacturer of iron roofing, Canton, and the present member of Legislature from Stark Co.; is a native of Trumbull Co., born in 1843. He is a son of John and Anna Snyder, who were farmers in that county, and upon the farm our subject passed the years prior to manhood. He received an academic education, and was an early volunteer in the late service. His first enlistment was in Co. A, 41st O. V. I., but after being in service a few months, was taken sick, and after lying in the hospital for a few months, was discharged, one year from time of enlistment. Returning home, he engaged in teaching school, and in the winter buying army horses, at which he continued until 1864, when he again enlisted in the service, becoming a member of the 171st Regulars, in the 100-day service, serving 120 days, during which time he was taken prisoner, but was soon after released. Upon receiving his discharge, in August, 1864, he re-enlisted immediately in Co. G, of the 177th O. V. I., and remained in service until the close of the war, participating in the engagements at Shelbyville Pike, siege of Nashville, Fort Anderson, Town Creek, Wilmington and many other minor skirmishes. He was at the time of his discharge First Sergeant, receiving his papers in June, 1865, at Wilmington. Upon returning to his home in Ohio, he embarked in oil speculation, which proved disastrous. His health at this time was quite precarious, and for many years it afflicted him so as to unfit him for active business life. After teaching school fora number of years he, in 1869, in connection with other parties, leased some coal land in Trumbull Co., Ohio, and Mercer Co., Penn., which were operated until 1872, when be came to Stark Co., locating at Waynesburgh, where he acted as agent for a company of gentlemen operating coal lands there, until the spring of 1873, when he bought the mines and operated them for three years, selling out in 1876, which closed his coal operations. He then engaged in the manufacture of iron roofing, in Waynesburgh, under the firm name of T. C. Snyder & Co., continuing there until January, 1880, when he removed this business to Canton, which presented a larger field and better facilities, since which time he has been a resident of Canton, superintending his business, which has increased until his goods are shipped to nearly all the States. While a resident of Waynesburgh, Mr. Snyder served as Justice of the Peace four years, resigning upon being elected to the Legislature. In 1879, he was nominated and elected to represent Stark Co. in the State Legislature, and is now (1881) a candidate for re-election. 632 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: During his term in the Legislature he has served the people with fidelity and zeal. He has championed the cause of the miners of the State, securing a revision of the mining laws ; also was an active agent in securing for the State the St. Clair papers, consisting of letters from Washington, La Fayette, Gen. Greene and others, which furnished some missing links in history. He also secured the passage of the vitriol bill, making the throwing of vitriol a felony ; and at all times has, by his honorable course and habits, commanded the respect and esteem of his fellow-members in the House. He is a member of Eagle Masonic Lodge and Nimissilla Lodge I. O. O. F. As a citizen and business man he ranks as one of the most progressive and enterprising, and has, by his genial and courteous manner, won hosts of friends all over the State. JOHN SCROGGS (deceased), who was among the earliest of the Tuscarawas street business men of Canton, was born in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, June 9, 1794. But little of the surroundings of his early life are known. During the war of 1812, he enlisted in the defense of his native country, and was engaged in the bombardment of Ft. McHenry and North Point. After the close of his military service, he came to Ohio and settled at New Lisbon, where on May 8, 1822, he was married to Miss Anna Shawke. The year following this event they moved to Canton, where Mr. Scroggs engaged in the mercantile business, conducting the same successfully until 1839, when he removed to Bucyrus, where he resided until his death, which occurred in 1861. Of the four sons and two daughters born to them, but two of the former and one of the latter are now living ; Jacob, an attorney and for many years connected with the Crawford County bar ; Jack, also an attorney, and now a resident of Wyandotte, Kansas. The daughter, Mrs. Mary Giles, with whom her mother, now in her 84th year, resides, is a resident of Freeport, Ill. JOHN SLUSSER, whose portrait appears in this work, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., Sept. 9, 1790. His father, Philip Schlosser, came to Stark County in 1805, with a family of ten children, five sons and five daughters, all deceased save one, Mrs. Jacob Danner, now in her 79th year. All are buried in Stark County, excepting the eldest son Philip, who removed with his family to Illinois, over forty years ago. It is doubtful whether any other family have as many of the connection interred in the county. They were among the first settlers ; in fact, were here several years before the county was organized. It was then the Western frontier ; Indians were numerous, and dwellings of the whites few and far between. The now flourishing city of Canton consisted of less than half a dozen log cabins, only two of which were occupied. Phillip Schlosser, the father, built the first grist-mill in the county. It was on the site now occupied by the East Canton Mill, where Ninth street crosses Nimishillen Creek. He erected a saw-mill the year before, and it was as manager of this that the subject of our memoir dates the commencement of his career with the outside world. But 16 years of age, with very limited education and no experience, he was yet required to take all the responsibility involved in dealing with new settlers, all clamorous for accommodation. He often referred to it as an experience that proved of practical utility in after years. In keeping the saw-mill in repair, and occasionally assisting the millwright while working on the grist-mill, he acquired considerable skill in the use of wood tools, and as emigrants arrived in the neighborhood, and wanted certain articles for domestic use, such as a dough-tray, table or cupboard, there being no cabinet-maker within reach, he was solicited to make them. In this way, without having served an apprenticeship at the trade, he became a cabinet-maker, During the last war with England, when there was a call for troops from this section, Mr. Slusser, then 22 years of age, enlisted. While near Sandusky he was taken with a fever, which seriously impaired his constitution. Soon after his muster-out, he married Nancy Dewalt, daughter of Phillip Dewalt, who came from Dauphin County, Penn., and settled in Canton in 1807. His father gave him a portion of Sec. 4 (now in the city limits) which he had previously purchased of Government, and upon this he erected a frame dwelling house, and a work-shop. Here he remained, following the trade of cabinet-maker for a number of years. The bureaus and clock-cases of his make that have been handed down through several generations, yet in good state of preservation, attest the workmanlike manner of their construction. In 1825, he exchanged his property for a two- story brick house, and lot, corner of Tuscarawas CITY OF CANTON - 633 and Piedmont, belonging to and occupied by John Webb. Soon after removing to town, he engaged in merchandising, and in company with several other merchants, rode on horseback to Philadelphia and New York, and with their assistance, purchased a stock of miscellaneouS goods, such as were kept in stock by merchants at that day. He continued in this business until 1850, accumulating considerable means, most of which he invested in western lands. In 1833, he sank a tan-yard on the lot now occupied by the Connotton depot. Mr. Slusser was twice married. His first wife died in 1842. They had seven children—Sarah, the eldest, is the wife of Madison Raynolds ; Samuel D. and Lewis are living in Canton , Mary and Alfred died of scarlet fever in 1833 ; John died in South Carolina in 1860, and Rebecca, the youngest, is the wife of David Zollars. Mr. Slusser married a second wife, Mrs. Catharine Whitman, in 1843, but by her lie had no issue ; she died in 1879. Mr. Slussel died in 1859, respected by all who knew him, as an honest, upright man. LOUIS SCHAEFER, attorney, Canton ; was born in the department of the Moselle, France, Dec. 25, 1815, and is the son of Philip and Catharine (Loehr) Schaefer. He was educated chiefly at the schools of his native place, and also received much valuable instruction from his father, who was a teacher by profession. He came with his parents to this country in 1830, and located in Stark Co. He studied law in the office of Griswold & Grant, in Canton, and was admitted to practice in 1842. In the fall of 1843, he was tendered, by the friends of the administration of John Tyler, the Secretaryship of the Legation to France, which, for valid reasons, he respectfully declined. Although closely devoted to his legal pursuits, he has ever taken a prominent and active part in advancing the interests of his adopted city: He was for many years connected with the City Council of Canton, and also for a considerable period with the Board of Education, and devoted much of his time to the welfare of the public schools. In the establishment of the Canton City Water-Works, Mr. Schaefer was the leading spirit. J. L. Pillsbury, civil engineer of that enterprise, thus speaks of Mr. Schaefer in his official report : " In concluding this final report of the condition of the water-works, I wish to render a just tribute to the originator of the scheme, Louis Schaefer, Esq., who sug- zested it, and worked it up to completion, in the face of all discouragements, personal and financial, and who, without compensation, devoted his entire time to the work, and who, with motives impugned, and factional influence to combat, kept the project running steadily onward, until now he has the satisfaction of seeing the work he labored so long for, completed, and in successful operation. We only state what every citizen knows to be true, in saying, that to his general knowledge of the subject, and unremitting labors in the Council, in financial circles and in the field, the Canton City Water-Works unquestionably owes their existence." Mr. Shaffer was also prominently active in securing the passage of the bill authorizing the County Commissioners to build court houses, and the present Stark County Court House was the first one erected under that law, and he was very efficient in pushing the enterprise to completion. In 1867, Mr. Schaefer erected his fine business block, which includes the Shaffer Opera House. Owing mainly to his efforts, several large manufacturing establishments have been added to the industries of Canton. In 1866, he was a candidate on the Democratic ticket for Congress, although, as a rule, he has not sought political preferment. He represented the Seventeenth Ohio District on the Commission sent to Washington City to demand the release of Vallandigham. In May, 1849, he married Catharine Anna, daughter of Rev. Stephen A. Mealy, of Savannah, Ga. She was an estimable lady of more than ordinary intelligence and accomplishments. She died Aug. 17, 1879, having been the mother of three children. Louis M. was educated in Kenyon College, Gambier. Ohio, studied law with his father, and was admitted to the bar in September, 1877. Mary E. is the wife of William R. Day, of the law firm of Lynch, Day & Lynch, of Canton, Ohio, Alice L., the second daughter, died in 1874, aged 21 years. GEN. GEORGE STIDGER (deceased), who was among the most prominent of Stark County's pioneers, was born in Baltimore, Md., Oct. 9, 1781. His father was a native of Germany, and his mother of Holland, though they became residents of Baltimore during the early part of their lives. As was customary in those days, Gen. Stidger, when a boy, learned a trade —that of a hatter. But little of the surround- 634 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: ings of his early life are known. In 1806, he became a resident of Canton, where he embarked in the mercantile business. He was married in New Lisbon, Columbiana Co., Ohio, to Miss Mary Reiley. Ten children were born to them, of whom are Mrs. M. A. Lester and Mrs. Julius Whiting, both ladies of the highest circle of society of Canton. Gen. Stidger continued the mercantile business until his death, which occurred on Sept. 29, 1826, during a trip to Eastern markets to buy a supply of goods. in his death, Canton lost one of her most enterprising spirits. In the war of 1812, he entered the service of his country as a Captain. His bravery and gallant soldierly conduct soon made him a fit subject for promotion, and he rose rapidly to the rank of General, by which title his name is familiar to the citizens of Stark Co. JOHN SAXTON (deceased), who was editor and founder of the Ohio Repository, Canton, Ohio, was born in Huntingdon Co., Penn., Sept. 28, 1792, and died in Canton, Ohio, April 16, 1871. He was the oldest of a large family, and learned the printer's trade when he was a boy. Early in 1815, he came to Ohio, and, locating in Canton, started the Ohio Repository,' in March of that year, on which he labored without interruption for fifty-six consecutive years. His newspaper longevity is strikingly illustrated by the fact that he recorded the final battles of both Napoleons. In 1815, he wrote and published the account of the battle of Waterloo, and the arrest of the first Napoleon. In 1870, he wrote and published the account of the battles of Sedan, and the arrest of Napoleon III. It is believed that not another man in the United States has labored so long and on one newspaper. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and while on garrison duty at Black Rock, near Buffalo, partially lost his hearing. In the discharge from duty, he was under a. large cannon, when a soldier fired it off, and the concussion occasioned this loss. During the whole time he was connected with the Repository, he was unremitting in his application to duty, and was constantly active in the office up to within a short time before his death. The causes that sustained and prolonged his life and activity were a good constitution, regular and temperate habits and a quiet conscience. He belonged to the Anti-Federalists, which was, in his early manhood, the Republican party. Subsequently he was a Whig, and, after the dissolution of that party, he espoused the principles of the present Republican party soon after its organization. He voted for the following Presidential candidates : Madison, Monroe, Adams, Clay in 1832, Harrison in 1836 and in 1840, Clay again in 1844, Taylor,. Scott, Fremont, Lincoln in 1860-64, and Grant in 1868. For several years in each he served as Auditor and Treasurer of Stark Co., and also Postmaster at Canton. Not less noted for regularity and well-sustained consistency were his church relations. He was one of the oldest members of the Presbyterian Church at Canton ; was elected Ruling Elder in 1837, and retained that position until his death, and had not been absent from Church duty for forty years, unless detained by sickness. He arranged his business and the day of publication of his paper with a view of always being present at the prayer-meeting. He possessed a remarkable evenness of temper, and was especially fond of children ; he was greatly beloved by them. He preached religion in his daily life, and was a Christian in everything. His was a cheerful, happy, conscientious, loving performance of religious duty. He was, of all men, the kindest and most careful not to wound the feelings of others. All, without distinction of party, respected and revered him. His wife, Margaret Laird, he married in 1815. She died in 1858, having been the mother of nine children. Since his death, the publication of the Repository has been conducted by his youngest child, Thomas Wilson Saxon, who was born in Canton, Ohio, Oct. 9, 1831, and was educated in the public schools of his native city. At the age of 13, he entered the printing office of his father, passing through the various departments until 1851, when he became a partner with his father in the paper, and has been connected with it until the present time. In 1860, he was elected Auditor of Stark Co., and filled that office until August, 1862, when he enlisted in the army as Quartermaster of the 115th 0. V. I., and served as such until May, 1865, when he resigned and returned home. In 1867, he purchased the father's interest in the paper, and in 1868 the Ohio Repository was consolidated with the Stark County Republican, under the name of the Canton Repository and Republican. In May, 1874, the name of the paper was changed to the Canton CITY OF CANTON - 635 Repository, its present title. It is an ably-conducted daily and weekly journal, the daily issue having first appeared in February, 1878. Mr. Saxton was one of the leaders in the Know-Nothing campaign of 1854. He espoused the cause of Republicanism upon the birth of that party, and has since been quite an active Republican politician. He has made the Repository one of the best Republican journals in the State. His personal characteristics are those of a plain, unassuming, agreeable gentleman. On March 31, 1857, he married Maria S., daughter of Samuel Slanker, now a retired business man of Canton, and she has borne him two sons—Herbert and Samuel. T. SULLIVAN, County Treasurer, Canton ; became a resident of Stark Co. in 1859, and located at Canal Fulton, where he engaged in the mercantile business ; he was very successful in business, and, though beginning on a somewhat limited scale, by close application and good financiering he soon established a business that stood second to none in that lively little town. Becoming almost involuntarily interested in political affairs, the position of a leader in the Democratic party was quickly accorded him by his friends ; in the October election of 1877, he was elected to the office of County Treasurer, and eleven months thereafter he took formal possession of the office. in 1880, he was re-elected to the same office, and is now actively engaged in the discharge of his duties. While a resident in Canal Fulton he not only became a leading merchant of the place, but he also took an active part in social and church affairs, and at the building of the Catholic Church of that place he was one of the largest individual contributors ; since becoming a resident of Canton he has transferred his membership to St. John's English Catholic Church. DAVID SHERRICK, retired farmer, Canton ; was born at Hagerstown, Md., in the year 1807, son of John and Nancy (Wyant) Sherrick, who were natives of Lancaster Co.. Penn., and were married in Washington Co., Md. ; they lived in Maryland a number of years, and removed to Pennsylvania, remaining two years, and then came to Ohio ; they had six children at the time, and came on by team, Mrs. Sherrick riding the entire way on horseback ; they settled two and a half miles southeast of Canton in 1816, where they lived until his death, at the age of 75 years—she died some three years later ; David lived at home until he was about 26 years old, his education being limited to the schools of the time ; at 26 he and his brother Jacob made a raft of pine logs at State Line, between New York and Pennsylvania, which they took to Cincinnati, remaining there some time in the lumber business ; after which he located near Canton on a piece of land belonging to his father, when he began manufacturing earthenware which he. continued but a short time ; he removed to St. Louis soon after but did not remain long, returning by wagon to Dayton, Ohio, where for four years he followed canal boating ; in 1840, he returned to Canton and was engaged in farming and in manufacturing stoneware, and lived in several different neighborhoods ; in 1868, he moved into Canton where he has ever since resided. In 1836, he married Miss Rebecca Longstarf—she died in 1861 ; they had six children two of whom are living—Emma, now Mrs. Kitzmiller, living north of 'Canton, and John, living in Canton. HON. JOHNSON SHERRICK, merchant, Canton ; was born Aug. 28, 1841, near Canton, Stark Co., Ohio; his father, Christian Sherrick, is spoken of elsewhere in this work ; our subject grew up and attended school in his native county, working on the farm in the summer and teaching during winters ; in 1863, he went to St. Louis and engaged in business, but in a short time enlisted in the marine service, and was detailed for duty as a clerk on a Government transport; he was taken sick and after his discharge taught school at Richville, Stark Co.; in 1870, he engaged in the hardware business, firm of Sherrick & Miller, which firm is yet doing business in Canton ; in 1873, as the first Democrat elected from Stark Co. for many years, he went to the State Legislature, was re-elected in 1875 and in 1877, was elected to the State Senate for the district composed of Stark and Carroll Cos., by a large majority ; he was a good worker and popular with his fellow members. As Chairman of the Democratic County Central Committee and Delegate to the State Conventions he is highly esteemed by his constituents as a most useful and effective assistant in all campaign work. Oct. 14, 1875, he married Miss Charlotte, only daughter of D. D. Miller, of Wooster, Ohio, a highly accomplished and respected lady. 636 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: CHRISTIAN SHERRICK, retired farmer, P. O. Canton; was born in Washington Co., Md., Nov. 8, 1812, and is a son of John and Nancy (Wyant) Sherrick. Our subject lived at home until 1839, being brought up to farming, and receiving but a limited education in the common schools. In 1839, he came to Ohio, stopping at Dayton, where he engaged for two years iu canal boating between that place and Cincinnati, visiting, in the meantime, New Orleans, remaining one winter in the South, and on returning in the spring to Dayton, resumed boating. In the fall of 1840, he was married to Miss Mary Danforth, of Hamilton, Ohio, after which he returned to Stark CO., and located on a farm belonging to his father, where he lived two years, and then removed to the old homestead farm, residing here until 1873, when he retired, and moved into Canton, and has lived here since. His wife died Dec. 8, 1866 ; they had seven children, of whom six are still living, viz.: Johnson, Elvina, Louisa, Joseph (deceased), Jacob D. (physician), Newton, Kan. ; Ida M., now Mrs. William J. Hartzell, of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Alvin B. Mr. Sherrick has always been a Democrat. JACOB SPIDEL, dealer in leather, hides, wool, etc., Canton ; was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Oct. 19, 1830, and is a son of Christian and Eliza (Smith) Spidel, natives of Pennsylvania. In 1836, they came to Ohio, and settled in Green Tp., then a part of Stark, but now in Summit Co., on a farm that was improved to the extent of a log house and a few acres of cleared land. In a short time after locating on this place, the father died, the mother remaining there until June 19, 1861, when she died. They had six children, five of whom are still living—Eliza, now Mrs. Boden, of Wyandot Co.; Mary A., lives with her ; Malinda, now Mrs. Breckenridge, lives in Summit Co.; Jacob (subject), in Canton ; and Christian F., in Summit Co. Jacob was raised on the farm until 17, receiving his education at the district schools ; he then apprenticed himself to the tanner's trade ; after serving two years he worked as a journeyman until 1858, when he went into business for himself, buying a tannery in Wayne Co., Ohio, where he remained in business until 1864 ; be then sold out, and located three miles north of Canton, and in 1865, bought a location in Canton, and moved into the city the following year, where he has been engaged in his present business ever since. He was married, in February, 1858, to Miss Elizabeth Hoover, a native of Stark Co. ; she died July 20, 1873, and June 8, 1875, he married Miss Elizabeth Bulger, a native of Pennsylvania ; they had two children, one of whom is living—Herbert Spencer Spidel. Mr. Spidel is a Republican in politics. ANDY SCHWERTNER, boots and shoes, Canton. This gentleman is a native of Bohemia, Austria ; he was born Oct.. 1, 1840. At the age of 13, he apprenticed to the shoemaker’s trade in the city of Vienna, where he worked for five years ; he then traveled in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, for one year, after which he remained for one year at home. In 1860, he came to the United States, and worked four years at his trade in Pittsburgh. He then engaged in the produce business, shipping to that city. In 1865, he came to Canton, making his entry on a farm wagon, and soon after began work at his trade, in a small store, which he rented. The outlook at this time was certainly not favorable—a young man, far away from his native land, and without friends or money, are circumstances before which many would despair, but by his indomitable energy and perseverance, he made his business successful ; and instead of the little 8x10 of a few years ago, he now owns and occupies the commodious brick store, No. 43 East Tuscarawas street, 21x80 feet, and carries one of the largest stocks in the city. He is also completing a brick block containing two large storerooms, on East Tuscarawas street, the upper two stories serving as an addition to the American Hotel. May 14, 1867, he married Miss Christina Richard, a native of Carroll Co., Ohio. Of their eight children seven are living, viz.: Frank, August, Irwin, Flora, May, Walter and Ida. Though but a few years have elapsed since Mr. Schwertner came to Canton a strange boy, and without money or friends, he has, by his own exertions and foresight, been successful in building up a prosperous. trade, and establishing a reputation for industry, integrity and business ability, of which he may well feel proud, and the commodious brick buildings which he has erected, stand alike a beauty to the city, and a monument to his success. Verily it may be said, that to these self-made men are our beautiful Western cities indebted for their rapid CITY OF CANTON - 637 growth and prosperity, which have made them the wonder and envy of the world. LEONARD R. TRESSEL, Agent for the Connotton Valley R. R., Canton ; was born in Carroll Co., Ohio, Sept. 3, 1839. He is the youngest of ten children born to Mathias and Catharine ( Harsh ) Tressel ; he received a good common school education, and spent some time at a select school in Malvern. October, 1861, he enlisted in Co. A, 80th 0. V. I., and served three years. Among the many engagements in which he participated, we may mention that of Iuka, Miss., the five days' fight at Corinth, and many scrimmages until they got in the rear of the army at Vicksburg ; Ft. Gibson, Raymond and Jackson. In the last-named place sixteen of his company were wounded in the feet and legs, and there he too received a serious wound, a ball passing through his left foot. He was there taken prison and kept about two weeks at Jackson, then sent to Libby Prison,where he was kept for a time and paroled because of the serious condition of his wound. He was sent to the hospital at Annapolis, Md., where he remained about six weeks and was then sent to Indianapolis, Ind., on detached duty, and was discharged October, 1864. Returning to Malvern he engaged in mercantile and railroad business, the former he discontinued, and remained in the employ of the Cleveland, Pittsburgh & Wheeling Railroad Company, and remained with them until the Connotton Valley Railroad began to be operated, when he engaged with that company and was appointed Freight and Ticket Agent at Canton, coming here in May, 1880. He married Agnes Fishel March 24, 1868. They have four children, viz.: Lottie, Jane, Maggie and Bertie. EDWIN T. THOMPSON, Agent for the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R. Co., Canton ; was born in Carrollton Aug. 20, 1843. His father, John Thompson, was born in Pennsylvania, and removed to Ohio with his parents when quite young. He settled in Centerville, now Carrollton, in 1836. He married Margaret E. Geiger, who was born in Eppinga, Baden, Germany. Her parents emigrated to the United States in 1819, When within a short distance of Baltimore they were caught by adverse winds and carried back near to the coast of Africa. After a voyage of about six months they landed safely at Baltimore, Md. A party of emigrants, Mr. Conrad C. Geiger with others, hired teams from Baltimore to Pittsburgh, Penn.; there the women and children of the party were left in a cabin while the men set out on foot and came to Stark County, Ohio, entered land, returned on foot to Pittsburgh and brought their families to their various selections in Stark County, and proceeded to improve their farms. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson have had four children, viz.: Samantha, Oscar ( deceased ), Edwin T. and Conradine. The subject of these notes, Edwin T., is the third child and only surviving son of their family. He received the ordinary public school education and in early manhood worked at the carpenter's trade with his father. He entered the employ of the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R. Co. in the spring of 1861, at Mansfield, where he learned the art of telegraphy with O. H. Booth. Mr. Thompson has been continuously in the employ of the Railroad Co. ever since at various points along the line from Plymouth, Ind., on the west, to Salem, Ohio, where he worked for the railroad nine years, and in May, 1877, he was appointed agent for the company at Canton, and has had control of that station ever since. At Ft. Wayne, Ind., he married Esther A. Barr, November, 1867—she was a daughter of John Barr, formerly of Allegheny City, Penn. They have two children : John B. and Alice E. Mr. Thompson is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Perry Lodge at Salem, Ohio. PETER P. TRUMP, retired, Canton ; whose portrait appears in this history, as a representative pioneer, is a native of Adams Co., Penn„ and was born March 2, 1803, the third in a family of seven children born to John and Elizabeth (Jacobs) Trump, the former was a native of Germany, and came to the United States with his parents when he was but 6 months old. He was raised on a farm, and early moved to Adams Co., where he conducted a farm and saw-mill, and also kept a hotel. About the year 1810, he visited Ohio, making the trip on horseback, and again in the next year he made a similar trip. During these visits he entered 160 acres of land and bought 320 acres, paying for the latter $10 per acre. In 1812, he moved with his family to this county, and settled on his 320 acre farm, which was located two miles east of Canton, and was partially improved. In 1816, he bought a place, two miles north of Canton, on which was a saw-mill. Later he built a grist mill, which 638 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: he conducted until 1824, when he retired to Canton. Some years later his wife died and he lived with his son, on the farm near town, until death two years after. Both he and his wife died at the age of 70 years. Our subject lived at home until he became of age, working on the farm and tending in the mill. His education was limited to the schools of the period, which were poor. He received the mill farm after becoming of age, and was married, March 12, 1824, to Miss Mary Ream, a native of Columbiana Co., and came to Stark, with her parents, about the year 1806. After his marriage he took charge of the farm and mill, and about the year 1845 or 1846, built a grist-mill of three run of stone, which is yet ill operation. After having engaged in different kinds of business, he and Alexander Hurford bought and improved the St. Cloud Hotel, which .they now own. He bought the lot and erected the building on the corner opposite St. Cloud Hotel. Mr. Trump has also been identified with the banking interest of Canton, and in company with Messrs. Whiting, Harter and Wikidal, formed the Canton Savings Deposit Bank, with which he was connected for a number of years. He has taken an active part in securing to the city several of the manufacturing establishments now in operation. His first wife died in 1865 ; there were nine children, of whom only four are living—Jacob and Henry, in Canton ; Eli, in Hardin Co., and Harriet, now Mrs. Kirkpatrick, of Denver, Colo. In April, 1866, he married Mrs. George Williams, formerly Miss Mary A. Smith, a native of Hagerstown, Md. She came to Ohio, in 1830, on a visit to her brother, and some years later married Mr. Williams. A. C. TONNER, Revenue Collector, Canton was born in Center Co., Penn., April 7, 1836. He is the only son of a family of nine children born to John and Lydia (Kreamer) Tonner. His father was born in Pennsylvania, February, 1812, and was for many years. a resident of Center Co.,.where he was almost continuously identified with the management of county affairs ; was also engaged in mercantile business, and in 1863 he came to Canton and accepted the position of Secretary for the manufacturing concern of C. Aultman & Co., which position he held until the time of his death, which occurred April 7, 1873. The subject of these notes, entered Dickinson College in youth, and at the age of 17, when he left college, was a member of the senior class. Several years were spent in the mercantile business at Bellefonte, where he entered upon the study of law, in the office of Adam Hoy, and in 1860 was admitted to the bar. He removed to Washington, D. C., in the latter year, to enter upon his duties as Assisstant Examiner in the Patent Office, to which he had been appointed. Sept 19, 1862, lie received his commission as Consul General to Central America, and made every preparation for going, but through fear of the ungenial character of the climate, to which he was about to proceed, he resigned his commission and remained in the Patent Office until 1865. He came to Canton, in 1866, and purchased the Union Mills, which he operated for two years, when he sold out and became President of the Canton Malleable Iron Company, which position he held until they sold out in 1872. Since then he has been engaged in the real estate business, was appointed Revenue Collector of the Eighth and Fifth Divisions of the Eighteenth District, which position he now holds. Sept. 6, 1866, he married Miss Millie Glenn. They have two children—John A. and Ida G. DANIEL TONNER, Canton, is a native of Center Co., Penn., and was born in December, 1818 ; he was raised on a farm, and also taught school. In 1846, he went to Illinois, and engaged in teaching, and the mercantile business, in Plainfield. Will Co. In 1859, he came to Canton, Ohio, and did the corresponding for C. Aultman & Co., and has continued with the company since, of which he has become a stockholder, and, in 1881, elected one of the Directors. June 27, 1850, he married Miss Margaret P. Pennington, a native of Center Co., Penn., her great-grandparents being among the pioneers of Pennsylvania Valley, of that State. Mr. Tonner is Republican in politics, an advocate of temperance, and a Methodist in his religious views. H. H. TRUMP, abstracter of titles, Canton ; is a native of Stark Co., Ohio ; he was born in Plain Tp., in the year 1840. In the spring of 1848, he came to Canton with his parents, and has resided here since. In 1858, he engaged as a clerk in a jewelry store in Canton. In 1861, he entered a grocery house ; and in 1863, he became book-keeper and teller in the Savings Deposit Bank, and next as Cashier of the Ex- CITY OF CANTON - 639 change Bank, from where he entered the City Bank, all of Canton. In 1872, he became Secretary of the Cauton Wrought Iron Bridge Co., and held the position one year. He then for two years revised and corrected the general indexes of the County Records Office. In 1875, he opened the abstract office, and has followed the business since. In 1866, he married Miss Mary Allinder, a native of Pittsburgh, Penn. They have four children, viz.: Harry A., Percy P., Guyan I. and Richard L. Mr. Trump's father, P. P. Trump, is spoken of elsewhere. JAMES S. TONNER, druggist, Canton ; is a native of Center Co., Penn.; he was born on a farm, and lived on same until 1855. He received a district school course of study, and taught a number of terms during the winters. His brother, Thomas Tonner, was a partner in the firm of Ball. Aultman & Co., of Canton, Ohio, and through him James S. arranged for a situation with the firm, and came to Canton in 1855. The next day or two the firm's buildings burned down, and James S. went West, but in August following he was sent for, and returned to Canton, and entered his duties as book-keeper for the firm. Upon the formation of a Stock Company, C. Aultman & Co., Mr. Tonner became Treasurer, and continued in that position until January, 1870, when he withdrew, and during the summer he engaged as Secretary and Treasurer with C. Russell & Co., which position he held about seven years. In 1880, he engaged in his present business. In 1858, he married Miss Kate Kuhn, a daughter of Dr. Henry Kuhn, a pioneer of Tiffin, Ohio, of their five children ; two are living—Harry and Bessie. JUDGE J. W. UNDERHILL, lawyer, Canton ; was born in Greene Co., N. Y., Oct. 6, 1818, and is the second in a family of three chile dren born to Nathaniel and Anna (Webber) Underhill, who were natives of Westchester and Greene Cos., N. Y. He was a Quaker, and married " out of meeting "—that is, she to whom he was wedded was not of the Quaker faith. The family came to Ohio in 1827, and settled in Kendal, now a part of Massillon. They lived in that vicinity until death ; he dying in September, 1833, and she about the year 1873, at the advanced age of 82 years. Our subject lived at home until the death of his father, after which he went east to New York State, where he lived with his uncle and attended school, and assisted on the farm. After three years he returned to Massillon, where he attended school further, and also taught school, his circumstances not allowing him to continue his education. In 1840, he began reading law with Samuel Pease, of Massillon, and was admitted to the bar in October, 1842 ; he began practice in Massillon, in company with H. B. Hurlbut, now of Cleveland, and after about one year the firm of Folger & Underhill was formed which continued several years, when he formed a partnership with F. M. Keith, and, after a few years it also was dissolved, and he remained alone until he came to Canton, in 1861, having been elected Probate Judge the previous year, to which office he was three times re-elected, holding the position twelve years in succession. After this, he formed a partnership with John Long (Underhill & Long) which continued in Canton until 1877. He then practiced alone until 1879, when he substantially left the law, and, as a Director and Member of the Executive Committee, gave his attention (receiving and disbursing the Canton Subscription Fund) to the Cleveland, Canton, Coshocton & Straightsville R. R. Company, but, in 1881, when a change of control of the road took place, he resigned. Judge Underhill was elected in 1855 to represent Stark Co. in the State Legislature. He has been a Republican in politics ever since the organization of the party, and was always of strong anti-slavery proclivities. He was married Nov. 2, 1842, to Miss Henrietta Widgeon, a native of Ohio. They had three children, viz.: Arthur J., who married Miss Henrietta Tonner ; Eliza R., now Mrs. W. A. Lynch, and Clara, now Mrs. H. C. Fogle. They all live in Canton. During the war, Judge Underwood was Chairman of the Military Committee of the county, and actively supported all war measures. A. VIGNOS, Postmaster, Canton ; is a native of Louisville, Stark Co., and was born in 1838. His parents were Joseph and Theresa (Frantz) Vignos, both natives of France, near Belford, and settlers in Louisville about 1830, where Mr. Vignos engaged in the business of hotel-keeping. But little of incident occurred in the early life of our subject, but in 1861, when the war of the rebellion broke out, he enlisted in Co. I. of the 19th 0. V. I., as company musician, for a three years' term of service, Capt. 640 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Rakestraw and Col. S. Beatty. He remained with his regiment until Sept. 16, 1862, during which time they participated in the battle of Shiloh. When they were before Corinth, he was taken with typhoid fever, and he, with others, was laid in one corner to die. He did not realize where he was until he found the man lying beside him to be a corpse. Recovering somewhat, he obtained a furlough and returned home. Securing the commission of recruiting officer, he raised a squad of men and joined the 107th O. V. I., three years' service. At the organization of the regiment, he was made Captain of Company H. They were ordered from Cleveland to Kentucky, and from there to Virginia, where, at Fairfax Court House, they joined Sigel,s Corps, July 1. He lost his right arm in the battle of Gettysburg, and, not until three days after he was shot, did he have an opportunity of having the arm amputated and the wound dressed. Sept. 1. he again joined his regiment, which lay at Folly Island. He was promoted to the rank of Major, and, on the 22d of February, 1864, he took command of the regiment, and held it until Sept. 30, 1864, when he resigned, and left the service. His resignation was the result of his at last realizing the dangers about him. An accident, by which he barely escaped losing his left and only remain ing arm, caused him to resign while he might yet have the physical ability to support himself, but no braver man, nor more honorable soldier ever enlisted from Stark Co. to aid in the suppression of the rebellion. Feb. 25, 1866, Mr. Vignos was married to Miss Phoebe L. Devinney, a native of Stark Co. Eight children have been born to them, named as follows : Henry J.. Charles A., Loretta R. (died Jan. 12, 1881), Blanche L., Alice NI., Alfred A., Helen and Paul G. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Vignos removed to Iowa Co., Iowa, but, in 1869, he returned to Canton, where for the next nine years he had a pretty hard time in the support of himself and family. A partial reward was at last given him, when the citizens, in 1878, interested themselves in obtaining for him the position of Postmaster of the Canton Post Office, the duties of which office he entered upon on May 16, 1868. G. W. VAN VLECK, M. D., eclectic physician, Canton ; was born at Syracuse, N. Y., Oct. 18, 1823, the son of Henry Van Vleck, who was a relative of Martin Van Buren. Our subject obtained his early education in Onondaga County, N. Y., and when about 14 years of age he entered Cortland College, but before he graduated, his health gave way, and to recruit his health he went to sea with his uncle, James Van Vleck, who was captain of a merchantman sailing from New York City. After six months, sea-faring life, his health was sufficiently restored to allow him to resume his studies, which he did in the Columbia College, of New York City. Erelong his health failed him again, and V again he returned to sea, this time in the United States Navy, his uncle having secured for him the position of messenger boy, but was finally promoted, and there he remained three years. During his service in navy, he devoted his leisure time to the study of medicine, and treated himself for consumption, with which he was seriously affected. Through the advice of his father, he resigned his position in the navy to pursue the study of medicine under Dr. Bigelow. He attended lectures at the Seneca Medical College, in Geneva, also in the Eclectic Medical College, in Syracuse, where he graduated in 1848. He then opened an office in his native town, where he practiced a short time, and in 1846 he removed to Kalamazoo County, Mich., where he practiced until the spring of 1848, when he removed to California and practiced there until 1850, when he came to Ohio. Several succeeding years he spent in traveling and lecturing, and then located at Pittsburgh, Penn. ; thence to Cincinnati, where he received another diploma from the American Eclectic Medical College, and in which institution he held the Professorship of Theory and Practice, and of Materia Medica for three years. He came to Alliance in June, 1879, and opened a drug store in 1880, which he conducts in connection with his practice. His practice is steadily increasing, and he is frequently called in consultation with physicians of other schools of medicine. BEN D. WILSON, County Clerk, Canton ; was born in 1837, in Osnaburg Tp., Stark Co., and is the son of Robert and Charity (Elson) Wilson. Her father was John Elson, a Captain in the war of 1812, from Western Virginia. He, with his wife subsequently came to Stark County, and both now lie buried in Osnaburg Town ship, as does also the grandparents of our sub ject, who became residents of Osuaburg Township as early as 1811. The country was so new at that date, they were obliged to clear and cut CITY OF CANTON - 641 a road through the timber to the property upon which they first settled. The early life of Ben D. was spent on the farm of his father (now a resident of Mapleton), though later he had the advantages of the public schools, and subsequently finished his education at the Mt. Union College. Returning from college he spent one year in a store in Osnaburg. In 1861, he accepted the position of teacher in the schools of Canton, in which he continued until August of 1862, when he enlisted in the 115th 0. V. I. He was with the 115th for about one and one half years, when he was commissioned in the 5th U. S. C. T. In October, 1864, after the Petersburg campaign, he resigned on account of ill health. Returning to Stark County, he remained somewhat inactive until January, 1866, when he received an appointment in the Department of the Interior, and for the following six years made his home in Washington, D. C. Again ill health obliged him to resign, when he returned to his native county and engaged in teaching. In 1875, he was appointed School Examiner of Stark County. In 1880, he became the Republican nominee for the office of Clerk of Stark County, to which office he was elected by a majority of 183 votes, and in February, 1881, he assumed the discharge of the duties of the office. In 1873, Mr. Wilson was married to Miss Victoria M. Cole, who is a native of Michigan. JOHN WILLIS, manufacturer, senior member of the firm of Willis, Benskin & Co., Canton; was born March 17, 1830, in Belfast, Ireland. He was one of a family of sixteen children. When he was 10 years old, his father died, soon after which, or when he arrived at a proper age, he was apprenticed to learn his trade, which he did, by serving five years, and paying an apprentice's fee of £35. In 1852, he left his native land, and came to America, bringing with him a younger brother, whose passage he paid. They made the voyage in the vessel Zion's Hope—Capt. Conner—and were seven weeks and three days on the water. He first became a resident of New Philadelphia, Ohio, where for one year he worked at the carpenter’s trade. He then removed to Massillon, where he was engaged with different firms, among which were the firms of Mong & Snyder, when he first learned to make sash and doors by machinery, and the Russell Reaper Company ; with the latter he remained for nine years, and then came to Canton, and for the next three years he was employed in the Aultman shops. Then he engaged in business on his own account, and how well he has succeeded is evidenced by the extensive business they are now doing. His success has been the result of his own personal efforts, industry and economy, as, when he first arrived in New Philadelphia, he had but $25 left on which to begin business in a strange land and among a strange people. He is now a member of Canton Lodge, No. 60, A., F. & A. M., of which he has held the office of J. W. ; he, however, joined the order in his native country. In September of 1854, he was married to Miss Mary A. Benskin, a native of Margate, England ; eight children have been born to them—six daughters and two sons. MARTIN WIKIDAL, retired, Canton ; was born in Moravia, Empire of Austria, Oct. 8, 1800. Of his parents, Ignatius Wikidal and Magdalena Palasheck, he is the youngest son and the only surviving child of a family of twelve children ; having received a good education in his own language in Vienna, Austria, he repaired to France, where he was employed for some six years as clerk in the store of his brother-in-law, John Dryfuss ; he then became a manager in the concern and took charge of the whole business for about eight years ; at the expiration of this time he sailed for America, and, having arrived at New York, he passed on to Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, in June, 1833 ; here he met friends from his native place, who persuaded him to remain and engage in business ; he complied with their request, and for the first six months he connected himself with a mercantile firm of Canton, during which time he learned the method of transacting business in this country; he then visited New York City, purchased a stock of goods and began business in earnest in the little town. In August, 1834, he embarked in trade in Canton, and until October, 1868, he remained one of the prominent, influential and leading merchants of the city ; at the latter date he retired to private life, having by his industry and frugality accumulated a handsome competency. In 1847, he erected a fine business house on the spot now occupied by the Stark County Court House ; it was a three story brick with a front of sixty-six feet ; he sold it in 1868, and it was removed to make 642 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: place for the present building. Among the local positions occupied by him may be mentioned : a Member of the Canton City Council, a stockholder in the P., F. W. & C. R. R., a Director in the Canton City Bank, being its President for a number of years ; he is also at present a stockholder in the Valley Railroad, between Cleveland and Canton. On Aug. 23, 1834, he married Fredricka Schaefer, daughter of Philip Schaefer, an early settler of Stark Co.; this union resulted in the birth of ten children, six living ; Louis Wikidal is engaged in farming near Topeka, Kan.; William Wikidal in the late war served in the 10th O. V. I. in the Quartermaster’s Department, and is at present a member of the firm of Bucher, Gibbs & Co., plow manufacturers, Canton, Ohio ; Edward Wikidal is a rubber goods merchant of Cleveland, Ohio ; Emma is Mrs. John B. Bucher, of Canton ; Clara married Robert S. Shields, a member of the Stark County Bar, and Julia is Mrs. Fred Hurxthal, of Cleveland. During his long mercantile career, Mr. Wikidal has ever been noted for his industrious habits, close attention to business and sterling integrity. The great principle of his life has been to do right, and such was his disapproval of dishonesty that whenever he found any one crooked in business transactions he would rather lose a small amount than engage in litigation ; notwithstanding the long period in which he was a leading merchant of Canton he never brought suit against any one ; neither was he ever sued ; his business life has been a model example in all those essential elements of success which are so frequently lacking among selfish and unprincipled business men. The old gentleman is now in his 81st year, and as a result of having been temperate and moral in his habits, he is enjoying good health ; he has been a citizen of Canton for almost half a century, and is held in high esteem by the community as one of its most successful and honorable business men. Formerly a Whig, he has been a Republican since the organization of that party. WILLIAM S. WILLIAMS ; Canton, soldier and civil engineer ; was born near Canton, Ohio, April 23, 1835. His parents were George Williams and Mary Smith. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and became a resident of Stark Co. as early as 1816. But few industries were open to the early settlers of that date, and his vocation was principally farming and the manufacture of brick. Industrious, honest and enterprising, he was soon looked upon as a valuable acquisition to the band of pioneers. William S. spent the first twenty years of his life on a farm, receiving his education at the public schools of Canton. When yet a young man, he served as a Lieutenant in a militia company called the Canton Light Guards, and was afterward made Captain of the Canton Battery. Possessing a superior mathematical mind, his inclinations early turned to the department of civil engineering and its kindred branches, and, while in high school, he paid special attention to his favorite science. With this preliminary preparation, he fitted himself for his profession by his own personal efforts ; by private study, and by practice in the field. His first engagement was as Assistant Civil Engineer of the Southwest Branch of the Pacific Railroad, running from St. Louis into the Indian Territory. In 1858, he was admitted to the bar in Ohio, and in Missouri in 1859, having previously read law under the late Judge G. W. Belden, of Canton. In the spring of 1861, he entered the service of the Government as Lieutenant in an independent battery of artillery, and was engaged, among others, in the battles of Scarry Creek and Hawk,s Nest, in Western Virginia, being Chief of Artillery on the staff of Gen. Frank P. Blair. In November, 1861, he was commissioned by Gov. Dennison to raise another battery, which was known as the 3d Ohio Independent Battery, with which Mr. Williams served as Captain, making for himself a highly creditable military record. He participated, among others, in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Raymond, Champion Hills, siege of VicksLurg, Clinton, Siege of Atlanta, Ezra Church, Jonesboro and Lovejoy Station. He was, for a .part of the time, Chief of Artillery of Gen. Logan's staff, 2d Division, 17th Army Corps, and subsequently he occupied the same. position on the staff of Gen. M. D. Legget. After the fall of Atlanta, the artillery of the 17th Corps was formed into a brigade, and Capt. Williams was assigned to the command of it as Chief of Artillery, and served as such until mustered out of the service in December of 1864. During his whole military career, Capt. Williams distinguished himself as a brave soldier and an excellent and intrepid officer. His superior CITY OF CANTON - 648 qualifications for his position, together with his gentlemanly bearing and courteous manners, rendered him one of the most popular officers in the corps. He is a member of the Society of the Army of the Tennessee, of which he has been honored by the office of Vice President. In politics, he is a Republican. Shortly after his return from the army, he was appointed County Surveyor for Stark Co., and served one term, and was subsequently for several years City Engineer of Canton. In 1872, he was appointed resident Civil Engineer of Public Works of the State of Ohio, which position he still occupies. In the years 1872-73 and 1876-77, he was Inspector of Railroads for the State of Ohio, respectively, under the Commissioners—Walcot and L. G. Delano. On Jan. 17, 1872, he married Anna, daughter of the late Dr. Frederick Hurxthal, of Massillon, and has one son—Frederick Williams. Capt. Williams is a gentleman of fine, scholarly attainments, and occupies a prominent rank among the leading civil engineers of the State. He is thoroughly devoted to his .department of industry, and his military and professional record alike entitle him to high regard as a patriot and a citizen. H. W. WERTS, of H. W. Werts & Co., manufacturers of carriages, Canton ; is a native of Lehigh Co., Penn., and was born March 29, 1832 ; his parents were Jacob and Mary (Wagoner) Werts, natives also of Pennsylvania. H. W. was brought up to farming, receiving his education at the district schools, and at the age of 16 years he was apprenticed to the trade of carriage-making, at Wadsworth, Medina Co., Ohio, the family having moved to that place in 1846. His father died there, and his mother moved to Michigan, where she died, in 1878. After serving a three and a half years' apprenticeship, Mr. Werts worked as a journeyman with C. A. Collins, of Middlebury, Ohio, for eight years, and iu 1859, came to Canton, and established his present business. He started in partnership with David Stebbins in a small way, continuing some five years, when Mr. W. became the sole proprietor. Later, he admitted D. J. King as a partner, which firm continued seven years, when Mr. Werts again became sole proprietor, and has so continued to the present time. He makes a specialty of carriages, and ships goods to all parts of the country, even West to California. Dec. 6, 1859, he was married to Miss Frances Mason, a native of Middlebury, Ohio. He is a Republican iu politics. JOSEPH WEAVER, lumber and manufacturer, Canton ; was born in Plain Tp., this county, Dec. 27, 1833 ; and is a son of Joseph and Margaret (Sweigart) Weaver. Joseph, Sr., was a native of Plain Tp., and was born in 1808 ; his wife came from Pennsylvania with her parents when quite young. His father, Valentine Weaver, was a native of Virginia, and removed to Ohio in 1806. He entered 300 acres of land in Plain Tp., and as his sons grew up he gave them each a piece of land. He was a farmer, and confined himself to that business, and died upon the place of his settlement. Joseph, Sr., was also a farmer, and resided on a part of the old homestead, and a part of the time kept a hotel; and was also a Justice of the Peace. He was thrown from his horse, receiving injuries from which he died, in October, 1833 ; his wife died some eight years later. Joseph, Jr., was young when his mother died, and lived with an uncle until he was 16, when he was apprenticed to Henry Bemenderfer, of Canton, to learn the carpenter,s trade, continuing with him until he became of age, when he took a trip to Iowa, and bought some land in that State. After some eight months' absence, he returned to Canton, and worked at his trade until 1868, when he became a member of the firm of Willis, Benskin, Weaver & Kaily, manufacturers of sash, doors, blinds, etc., in which business he continued three years, when he sold his interest, and went into the lumber business, which he has followed ever since. In the fall of 1879 he added manufacturing, making a full line of building material. Mr. Weaver is a Republican in politics, was Councilman for 1875-76, and has been a member of the Presbyterian Church for twenty years. Dec. 14, 1858, he was married to Miss Susan Lawrence, a native of Lancaster Co., Penn., who came to Canton with her parents, William and Mary (Stuck) Lawaenee, in 1837. They were natives of Philadelphia. Six children have been born to Mr. Weaver, four of them are living, viz.: Allen, Edward, Ralph and Frank. JACOB T. WELTY, retired farmer ; Canton; was born in Maryland, November, 1815. His father, Christian Welty, came with wife and four children to Stark County in 1835. Jacob was the oldest of the children, and had re- 644 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:   ceived a thorough academic education in his native State. After coming to Ohio he devoted much of his time to teaching school and civil enginering for several years. In February, 1842, he married Phianna Klinker. She was a daughter of Jacob Klinker, of Pennsylvania, who had removed to New York thence to Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, in 1839. Mr. Welty turned his attention to farming after he was married, and has since conducted that business extensively, owning about 600 acres in Stark County. In 1877, he removed to Canton and superintends his farms from here. Mr. and Mrs. Welty reared three children, viz.: Almon C., Ella N., now Mrs. David Nailor of Sturgis, Mich., and John C. JOHN C. WELTY, attorney, Canton ; was born Sept. 10, 1852 ; he is the youngest of three children of Jacob T. and Phianna Welty, whose sketch appears above. The subject of these notes got a good public school education and entered Bethany College, Virginia, in 1869 ; the following year he entered Mt. Union College and took a classical course. In 1873, he began the study of law with Judge S. Myers, of Canton, and at the fall term of the District Court at Canton in 1875, he was admitted to the bar. He opened an office in Canton and entered upon the practice of his profession, and was admitted to practice in the Federal Courts in 1878. He was elected City Solicitor in 1877, and re-elected in 1879, and re-elected in 1881, which office he now holds. Oct. 11, 1877, he married Miss Graham, daughter of Charles H. Graham, of Philadelphia, and grandaughter of the Hon. Mr. Graham, who was the first State Senator from this district. W. H. WYANT, Canton ; who has for a number of years been in the employ of the Government in various capacities ; is a native of Washington Co., Penn. In 1836, his parents moved from his native county to Jefferson Co., Ohio, he at that date being about 1 year of age. In 1845, they removed to Stark County and settled in Paris Township. Then his father, John Wyant, became a useful and respected member of the community. He was by trade a blacksmith, in which business he became engaged and which he conducted for many years. He had been honored by such local offices as were within the gift of his friends, and for many years previous to his death, which occurred in 1872, he was a warm supporter of the cause of religion, and had identified himself with the M. E. Church. W. H. was one of a family of eight children. His early life was spent in the home of his parents. Subsequently he became interested in and learned the art of photography, in which he engaged as a business and which he continued until 1864. In 1865, he entered the Government as Assistant Revenue Collector, the duties of which office he continued to discharge under this appointment for five years. Since the close of his duties as revenue collector, he has contined in the employ of the Government, filling the various offices of Inspector, Gauger and Storekeeper, and is at present, engaged in the discharge of the combined duties of the two latter. In politics, he is a Republican, and during the war of the rebellion he enlisted in the 100 day service. He is a member of Nimisilla Lodge, No. 39, I. O. O. F., and has passed all the chairs in the subordinate lodge in this order. For the past seven years lie has been Secretary of Canton Lodge, No. 60, A., F. & A. M. He is also a member of the M. E. Church. July 3, 1857, he was married to Miss Anna E. Withrow, whose parents were among the old and prominent pioneers of Jefferson County, Ohio, of which she is a native. Their family comprises four children, the oldest of which, Frank M., who is now about 22 years of age, has been connected with the First National Bank of Canton since his 11th year. DANIEL WORLEY, clergyman, educator and Legislator, Canton ; was born Feb. 28, 1829, in Harrisburg, Penn. His father, Thomas Worley (now deceased), was a descendant of the early Moravian settlers of York, Penn. Of a family of seven children, three are living—one son, Prof. F. M. Worley, is now teaching as Principal of one of the public schools of Harrisburg, Penn. ; and Richard Worley, another son (now deceased), was occupying the position of Principal of the High School in the same city. Our subject was the oldest in the family, and, after receiving the advantages of the common schools and Academy at Harrisburg, he entered Pennsylvania College at Gettysburg, and completed a thorough classical course, graduating therefrom in September, 1850. Having the ministry in view, he repaired to Capital University, Columbus, Ohio, with the intention of studying theology. While CITY OF CANTON - 645 doing so, he accepted and filled the position of tutor two years, with such satisfaction that he was prevailed upon to take a permanent position as Professor of Mathematics and Natural Science, which chair he occupied for eleven years. The institution became one of the leading universities of the State. Prof. Worley will long be remembered by many of the leading business and professional men, who were formerly his pupils, as one of the most successful and best educated teachers in the State. In 1852, having completed his theological studies under the instruction of Prof. Lehman, now President of Capital University, he was licensed, and, in 1855, ordained a minister of the Lutheran denomination. In 1863, he resigned his professorship, and took charge of an academy in Greensburg, Penn., for one year. In the following year, he was called upon to take charge as Superintendent of the Public Schools of Canton, Ohio. He held the position for a period of eleven years. He took this position when the schools were in an unsatisfactory condition, but, by intelligent classification and judicious management, he brought them up to a high state of efficiency and usefulness. At the close of his labors in the public schools, he retired from public work, about a year after which he started a private school with good success. In the fall of 1877, he was nominated and elected by the Democratic party as Representative from Stark Co. to the Legislature by a majority of about one thousand. After serving out his term, during which he was elected Chairman of the Committee on Public Schools and on Codification of School Laws, he returned to Canton, and resumed teaching. While in the Legislature, he was recognized as,a strong advocate of all measures for the education of the masses ; for the development of the resources of the State, and the protection of the liberties of the people. While at Capital University, he received the nomination of the Whig party for Representative to the Legislature, and in the following year the nomination for Congress. This was in the waning days of the Whig party, and he, of course, suffered defeat. In Canton he has, at different times, served as member of the City Council and Board of Water-Works. In his political career as a candidate and officer, he has, both publicly and privately, wielded a strong influence over the people ; and, although firm in his convictions and fearless in his denunciations, he has never descended to the arts and devices of the political trickster. From the time he was ordained, in 1855, he has not been derelict to his ministerial vows, but has always officiated as Pastor of some flock, and has devoted himself to the profession, building up weak congt egations ; restoring shattered and disbanded organizations ; everywhere preaching the Gospel, and performing the duties of a missionary. During the time he lived in Columbus, he edited the Lutheran Standard for nine years. This was the organ of the Joint Synod of the Lutheran Church, and, amid all the changes of the times incident to the war, he preserved its circulation, and proved himself an able editor and writer. He served also during one year as Principal of the High School at Columbus. On the 2d of November, 1852, he married Henriette, daughter of Prof. William Smith, President of Capital University, and a clergyman of the Lutheran Church. Of two children born to Prof. Worley, but one —a boy, Willie R.—is living. 646 - BIOGRAPH1CA SKETCHES: CANTON TOWNSHIP. MARTIN BACHTEL, retired ; P. O. Canton. David Bachtel, the father of our subject, and the first white settler in Stark Co., was born in or near Hagerstown, Md. His early life was spent on the farm, where he lived until 1801, when he left his native place to seek a home in the West. After a long and wearisome tramp, he arrived in Columbiana Co., this State, where he remained until the fall of the same year, when he pushed on to Stark Co.; he was obliged to clear a road or passage for fifteen miles, and the hardships he underwent cannot be told with any degree of certainty. He settled on 160 acres of land, then covered with heavy and dense forest ; he put up a small shanty, and cleared 4 acres of ground. He then returned to Columbiana Co., and was there married to Elizabeth Sheely, who was a native of Adams Co., Penn. Soon after their marriage, he returned to Canton Tp., and there he toiled until he cleared his farm. He and his wife were members of the German Reformed Church. He died at the age of 55 years ; his widow reached the ripe age of 93 years. Martin, the subject of these few lines, was born on the farm where he now resides March 13, 1809. His childhood days were spent on the farm ; he attended the schools of his neighborhood, and acquired an education such as the schools in that early day afforded. He lived at home with his parents until he became of age ; he then purchased the old homestead, and has remained on the same ever since, with the exception of four years he lived in Canton engaged in hotel keeping. In 1836, he married Miss Margaret, daughter of John and Elizabeth Winterrode, who was a native of this State. From that marriage there have been eleven children, eight of whom are living, viz.: Jacob, David, John, Daniel, Margaret, Ellen, Martin and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Bachtel are members of the German Reformed Church. JACOB BOWMAN, farmer; P. O. North Industry ; is the eighth in a family of nine children born to Jacob and Hannah (Klinger) Bowman, who were natives of Northumberland Co., Penn., where Jacob was engaged in farming. In 1812; he came to Ohio, settling in Pike Tp., Stark Co., on a farm of 160 acres, which was covered with a dense forest ; he cleared the farm, and lived on the same up to the time of his death. He was a man universally esteemed for his sterling integrity and honesty. He and his wife were both members of the Lutheran Church. He died in 1863, aged 84 years ; his widow died in 1872, aged 88 years. Jacob, the subject of this sketch, was born in Stark Co., Jan. 28, 1823 ; his childhood was spent on the farm, interrupted but slightly by educational pursuits, as facilities of that kind were scanty and of an inferior order in the region of his home. He worked on the farm until lie was 21 years of age ; then he purchased a farm of 80 acres in this county ; he, one year later removed to Crawford Co., this State, and settled on a farm of 240 acres, and there lived sixteen years ; he returned to Stark Co., and purchased a farm of 274 acres in Canton Tp., where he now resides. In 1844, he married Louisa, a daughter of Lewis Runyon, of Jefferson Co., Ohio ; from that marriage there have been six children, three of whom are living, viz. : Belinda, Mary J. and J. R. Mr. Bowman is a stalwart Republican, and during the war was the only Republican in Chatfield Tp., Crawford Co., who dared to cast his vote. JOHN H. BRENNER, farmer; P. O. Canton the subject of these few lines was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., his birth occurring Aug. 5, 1821. His parents, Michael and Susannah Brenner, were natives of the above-named county, where they passed their life on the farm. The early years of young Brenner's life were passed on the farm ; he received a common school education, and after leaving school worked at home on the farm until he was 18 years of age ; his father then dying, the responsibility of a farmer rested on John, who at that time was well versed in the management of the same ; he continued to live on the homestead until 1856, when he came to Stark Co., settling in Canton Tp., where he purchased 450 acres of valuable land ; he now lives on the farm where he settled in 1874. When the Farmers' Bank of Canton was organized he was elected its President, holding the position up to the pres- CANTON TOWNSHIP - 647 ent time, and is one of the five stockholders. In 1867, he made extensive purchases in western lands located in Anderson Co., Kan.; he improved the same and sold at an advanced price ; he has also been engaged in the milling and grain business. In 1843, he was united in marriage to Miss Fannie, daughter of Jacob Lintimuth, who was a native of Lancaster Co., Penn.; from that marriage there has been nine children, four of whom are living—Susannah, Fannie, Ada L., and Amos L. Mrs. Brenner is a member of the German Baptist Church. Mr. Brenner is a Republican in politics and is a strict adherer to his party. J. CARNES, farmer ; P. O. Canton ; is the seventh in a family of eleven children, born to John and Hannah Keiser Carnes. John was a native of Lancaster Co., Penn., and came to Stark Co., in 1808 ; he settled in Pike Tp. on a farm ; he was engaged in teaming and hauled the first dry goods ever sold in Canton ; as he accumulated means, he engaged in the distilling business. and for several years he did a successful business. John Carnes, the subject of this, was born in Pike Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, Jan. 1, 1829 ; his childhood was passed on the farm ; he attended the common schools of his neighborhood and acquired a good education ; at the age of 21 he engaged in farming and stock dealing and raising, and continued in the same until 1866, when he disposed of his farm and purchased 455 acres in Canton Tp., where he now resides ; he has one of the finest farms in the county, and is considered one of Stark County's best and most prosperous farmers. In 1853, he married Miss Esther, daughter of Jacob Miller, of Tuscarawas Co.; from that marriage there has been five children, four of whom are living, viz.: Allen A., Upton M., Curtis J., and Junius B. Mr. and Mrs. Carnes are members of the Lutheran Church. OTTO GIESSEN, brewer ; P. O. Canton ; was born in Rhine-Bavaria, July 14, 1848 ; the youngest son of a family of seven children, born to Henry and Elizabeth Giessen. His father is an attorney by profession, and was appointed State Attorney for Rhine-Bavaria ; therefore, occupying position and influence, young Giessen's early manhood was spent principally in attending school. In 1865, although a mere youth, he emigrated to the United States, landed at New York, and came direct to Cleveland, where he secured a life scholarship in the Bryant & Stratton Commercial College, and took a course in book-keeping. In the latter part of the same year he began to learn the brewing business with Schmidt & Hoffman, where he remained until the latter part of 1869, having been their foreman for some time before leaving. He accepted a position as foreman of the Gessler Brewery, at Akron, and subsequently took an interest in the establishment which lasted until 1872. In the meantime lie visited Europe, and returned after a four months, sojourn. In 1872, he purchased the Gerber Brewery, located two and a half miles from Canton, in connection with which are 7 acres of land. February, 1872, he married Julia Angne, daughter of George and Kate Angne of Akron, Ohio. They have four children— Frederick, Otto, Charles and Homer. Mr. Giessen is a member of the Knights of Pythias. DAVID E. GERBER, farmer ; P. O. Canton, was born where he now resides July 6, 1834. His grandfather, Christian Gerber, came from Pennsylvania to Stark Co., about the year 1810. He had a family of several children when he came, and entered considerable land in the southern part of the township, and had his sons located around him as soon as they began for themselves. When his son Elias arrived at manhood, he married Maria Richard. She was born in Switzerland, in 1810, and in company with her brother emigrated to the United States in 1827. Elias Gerber retained the old homestead, which is now the property of his sons. He had a family of six children, five living, and of whom David E. is the oldest. Oct. 14, 1858, David E. married Emeline King, daughter of Abraham and Phoebe King. They have had eleven children, nine of whom are living, viz. : Clara E., Melissa, Katie, George, Mary, Elva, John, Edward and Jennie. Mr. Gerber owns 131 acres of good land, which has been retained in the family name since his grandfather entered it. Mr. and Mrs. Gerber are members of the Dunkard Church. A brother, George, enlisted in the late war and died in Tennessee, from a wound received while participating in the battle of Murfreesboro. Another brother, Christian H., also enlisted in Oetober, 1862, and served until the close of the war, six months of the time being spent in rebel prisons in the South. PETER KREIBULL, farmer; P. O. Canton; is the second of a family of seven children born 648 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: to Jacob and Fanny (Miller) Kreibuill, who were natives of France. Jacob was engaged in farming from his childhood ; he was a soldier under the French government. In 1839, he came to America, and at once started for Stark Co., Ohio. He took up his residence in Washington Tp.; he settled on a farm of 80 acres. After living on the 80-acre farm a few years, he purchased another farm in the same township, and there lived until his wife died ; after that, he went to live with his son, Christian, where he now resides. He is a faithful member of the Mennonite Church. Peter, the subject of this sketch, was born in France April 20, 1836, and when but 3 years old, came to Ohio with his parents. The early years of his life were passed on the farm of his father; he attended the common schools of his neighborhood, and acquired a liberal education. He lived at home until he was 25 years of age, he then began farming the homestead, where he remained two years. He subsequently removed to Canton Tp., and rented the farm where he now lives ; for four years he rented, and, in 1869, he purchased 40 acres, and has been making additions until now he owns 101 acres of valuable and well improved land. In 1861, he united in marriage with Miss Mary, daughter of Peter Graber, who was a native of France, and came to Ohio about 1856. From that marriage there has been ten children, seven of whom are now living, viz.: Lucinda A., Susanna M., Catharine L., Emma N., Lizzie C., Harvey L. and Mary A. Mr. Kreibuill has by his industrious habits acquired considerable means. ADAM KNOBLOCH, brewer, Canton ; was born in Prussia in the year 1843. His parents, Henry and Elizabeth Knobloch, were natives of the same province. Henry was for several years engaged in hotel-keeping. In 1846, he came to. America, settling in Stark Co. He was engaged in farming in Plain Tp. for two years, he then removed to Richville, this county, and there remained eight years. In 1856, he came to Massillon and engaged in the grocery business, which business he conducted until 1875 ; during this time he was engaged in the malting and grain business. He is now living a retired life in Canton. Adam, the subject of this sketch, was but three years old when he came to Stark Co.; his childhood was spent on the farm ; he received a common education ; at the age of 14, he commenced to clerk for his father, and with him remained until 1872; he engaged with C. N. Oberlin. of Massillon, as clerk, and with him remained three years. In 1875, he came to Canton and purchased a half-interest in the Union Brewery, and, in 1880, he became sole proprietor. He has since his connection with the same, added a malt house ; now, he is doing business to the amount of 4,000 barrels per annum. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 47. MRS. G. A. LOWMAN, retired, Canton ; whose maiden name was Sarah A. McCormick, was born in Pittsburgh, Penn. ; her parents, John and Sarah (Hays) McCormick, were natives of Scotland, and for several years were residents of the North of Ireland. Mr. McCormick came to America at an early date, and settled in Pittsburgh, Penn., where he engaged in the wholesale mercantile business ; he was a gentleman of considerable wealth, and did a successful business for several years. They were the parents of three daughters, Mrs. Lowman being the eldest. At the age of 20 she married Dr. Thomas Bonfield, who was a native of Baltimore, Md.; he attended the schools of his native city and served with gallantry in the war of 1812. At the close of the war, he studied medicine, attended and graduated from a medical college in Baltimore ; he then came to Canton on a visit, and was persuaded to locate there ; he OW so, and for thirty years had a successful practice. He died in 1855, at the age of 59 years. From that marriage there were three children, one of whom is living, viz.: Lida, wife of F. A. Snyder, of Omaha, Neb. In 1877, after being a widow for twenty-two and a half years, she married the Rev. G. A. Lowman, who was a native of Morgantown, W. Va. He died six months after their marriage, at the age of 59 years. JACOB S. LEHR, farmer ; P. 0. Canton. The subject of these few lines was born in Berks Co., Penn., May 18, 1826, and is the ninth in a family of sixteen children born to Samuel L. and Elizabeth (Hallabaugh) Lehr, who were natives of the Keystone State, where Samuel was engaged in the milling, millwright and carpenter business. In 1828, he came to Stark Co., settling on a farm in Osnaburg Tp., where he lived until he died ; he was engaged in contracting and building, and built many of the industries of Stark Co. He died in 1858. aged 75 years ; his faithful companion lived to CANTON TOWNSHIP - 649 reach the ripe age of 85 years. Jacob, the subject of this short sketch, came to Ohio with his parents in 1828, he being at that time but 7 years of age. He remained at home on the farm until he was 18 years of age ; he received a common school education, and at the age of 18 he went to Canton, and apprenticed himself to the blacksmith trade ; he served an apprenticeship of three years ; he then began business for himself in Mapleton, this county, where he remained eight years. Having a desire to become a land-owner, he made a purchase of 80 acres of land in Osnaburg Tp., where he lived nine years, working the farm and at his trade during this time. In 1867, he removed to Canton Tp., and settled on a farm of 110 acres, where he now resides. In 1852, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary M., daughter of Peter Schwartz, of Osnaburg Tp. She died in 1868, at the age of 37 years ; she bore him four children, viz.: William, of Marshall Co., Ind.; Charles, on the homestead ; Lamaan, wife of George Zellers, of Osnaburg, and Malinda, wife of Isaac Zellers, of Osnaburg. Mr. Lehr is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, and a Democrat in politics. JOSEPH C. MILLER, farmer; P. O. Canton; was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Oct. 23, 1842. His parents were Jacob and Lena (Kindlesparker) Miller, and were among the early settlers of Wayne Co. They were natives of the State of Pennsylvania, and came from Somerset Co. 1 to Wayne Co., Ohio, about the year 1820. They reared to maturity a family of ten children, of whom Joseph C. is the fourth. He was reared to the various pursuits of farm life, and remained at home until of age. At the outbreak of the late war, he responded to the call of the country for men ; but six weeks after his enlistment, he was taken seriously ill, and was discharged from further service. June 5, 1864, he married Sally Kurtz ; she is a daughter of Stephen Kurtz, who was one of the pioneer setlers of Lawrence Tp., Stark Co. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have two children—Franklin and Ira. In 1866, they rented the farm where they now live, and four years later they purchased 118 acres, at $8,750. They began for themselves without much means, but have secured and made a beautiful and pleasant home by constant application and hard work on the farm ; it is now in an excellent state of cultivation, besides being underlaid with a valuable vein of coal, of good quality, which he has been mining for the last eight years. Within the last three years he has put on improvements in the way of residence and barn, at a considerable expense, which are as commodious as any in the township. J. E. MISHLER, farmer ; P. O. Canton ; is the sixth in a family of thirteen children born to Henry and Nancy (Eberly) Mishler, who were natives of Center Co., Penn., where Henry was engaged in the milling business. In 1839 he came to Ohio, settling in Suffield Tp., Portage Co., on a farm, where he lived until 1854, when he removed to Canton Tp., where he engaged in farming ; he remained a resident of Canton Tp. up to the time of his death. Both he and his wife were devout members of the Church of Christ. J. E. Mishler, the subject of these few lines, was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., March 20, 1835. When but four years old, he came to this State with his parents ; the early years of his life were passed on the farm ; he attended the common district schools, and acquired a good education, and when but 17 years-of age he began teaching, and for several years he taught in Summit and Stark Counties. At the age of 22, he engaged in farming, and in 1867 he purchased a farm of 185 acres, and has lived on the same ever since. In 1870, he was called to the ministry, to take charge of the Canton branch of the River Brethren Church, and has for the past eleven years been a faithful and diligent worker. In 1858, he married Miss Mary A., daughter of Christian Brilhart, who lived but a short time after their marriage; in 1860, he married for his second wife, Miss Nancy A., daughter of Jonathan Fockler, of Stark Co. From the last marriage there have been six children, five of whom are living, viz. : Ellen, Harvey, Emma, Willie and Laura. JACOB MYERS, retired, Canton ; was born near Carlisle, Penn., Sept. 11, 1820. His parents, John and Jane Smith Myers, were natives of Pennsylvania, where John worked at the blacksmith's trade up to the time of his death, which occurred while our subject was quite young ; soon after his death, Mrs. Myers came to Ohio and settled in Columbiana Co.; she was obliged to work in order to maintain her fatherless children ; she married for her second husband Henry Freed, of Columbiana Co.; shortly after this they came to Stark Co., where she lived a short time, then she removed