CITY OF ALLIANCE - 725 where he remained three years, then removed to San Bernardino, Cal., his present home; the only daughter, married Rev. Wm. J. ahn, now a resident of Lisbon, Linn Co., Iowa. The family moved to Mahoning Co. when David, the subject of this sketch, was about 4 years of age. His early life was variously spent on his father's farm and attending common school; subsequently he entered college at Mt. Union, where he remained but a short time when he began the study of law. The first year of his legal study was spent at home; the .econd year in the office of W. C. Pippitt. Sept. 13, 1870, at the District Court in Cleveland, he was admitted to the bar, and opened an office in Alliance and began the practice of his profession. The profession at Alliance was then represented by ten regularly practicing attorneys, notwithstanding which he secured a paying practice from the first, which steadily increased. His temperate habits and open denunciation of the unlawful sale and use of liquor gave him favor with the temperance people, regardless of party, which led to his being taken up against his protest during the temperance excitement of 1874, and elected Mayor on what was known as " the people's ticket.;" he served as mayor two years in connection with his law practice, and was afterwards appointed to fill a short vacancy caused by the death of Mayor Barnaby. In 1875 a law partnership was formed with J. J. Parker, known as the firm of Parker & Fording, which was dissolved in 1876. May 11, 1875, he was admitted to practice in the Federal Courts. He. was married to Esther J. McConney, of Portage Co., Oct. 5, 1870; they have a family of three children—two sons and one daughter. P. J. GAUME, dry goods merchant, Alliance; was born near Louisville, Stark Co., Ohio, in April, 1844; the son of Louis and Josephine (Faivre) Gaume, who were natives of France, and emigrated to-the United States about 1835. Five of their eight children are still living. Mrs. Gaume died in 1856, and Mr. Gaume married a second wife. The boyhood of our subject was spent on the farm until about 20 years of age, when he went to Ft. Wayne, Ind., and clerked there two years in the dry goods business. At the expiration of that time he returned home, and accepted a position as clerk with the Haines Bros., which he retained four years, and gained for himself a desirable record for industry and faithfulness. When he severed his connection with the Haines Bros., he engaged with the firm of King, Weekert & Warren, where he remained about six years. He married Miss Nancy R. Haines, Sept. 9, 1873, and they have one child, Harry H. He remained two years with Mr. King, subsequent to some changes in the firm, and when King & Co., removed to Paris, Mr. Gaume began business for himself, and by economy and adaptability and the help of Mrs. Gaume, who was also familiar with that line of business in her brother's establishment, out of a limited capital they have built up a good and prosperous trade. FRANK W. GASKILL, grocer; Alliance; was horn where he now resides, Jan. 28, 1858. His father, William Gaskill, was a native of Ohio, and learned the carpenter's trade, and was prominently engaged contracting and building in this vicinity at an early date. He married Catharine McDugan, who came here from Ireland with a sister, in 1849. Mr. Gaskill died in 1860, leaving a widow and four small children, viz.—Ellen, Ava, now Mrs. John W. Bowden, Frank W. and Anna. Frank W. got a fair education in the Alliance public schools, and when eighteen years of age conceived the idea of opening a grocery at the residence located in the old part of the town known as Freedom, and although he had nothing to begin with, he was trusted for some goods, and begun on a very small scale, being industrious and of good .business qualifications he has built up an admirable and profitable trade. Every effort has been met with success, and since he has begun business he has purchased the interests of the other heirs in the old homestead. His mother, widow Gaskill, married James Hunter for her second husband, by whom she has one son. JOHN G. GARRISON, editor and proprietor of the Alliance Standard; Alliance; was born in Powhattan, Belmont Co., Ohio, Feb. 22, 1855. He is the second son of a family of six children of James W. and Amanda Garrison. His father was for many years engaged in printing in Pittsburg and Cincinnati. In 1859 he came to Alliance where 726 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES he became prominently identified with the newspaper interests. When nine years old young Garrison entered the printing business under the supervision of his father, who was an experienced and practical printer, he thus acquired a thorough knowledge of the business which added to his natural taste he became master of his chosen profession at the age of 15. At this time, partly on account of ill health and force of circumstances he accepted a clerkship in the store of E. H. Brosius, which he retained for six years, making for himself a creditable record for ability and faithfulness. While thus engaged he continued private study to better fit himself for newspaper work. In 1876 he was elected Township Clerk and served one year, declining a second nomination. Shortly after, himself and partner leased the Alliance Monitor, but on account of his partner's conduct, and to him unknown embarrassment of the concern, he suffered pecuniary loss. He then leased the job office of the Review for eight months during which time he settled satisfactorily and in full with the creditors and subscribers of the Monitor which suspended when Mr. Garrison severed his connection with it. He then became manager of the Independent Age, and in 1878, at the solicitation of various citizens he opened a job printing office, and before his outfit was unboxed he had received unsolicited orders for two months work. In 1880' he purchased the fixtures of the Independent Age, and established the Alliance Standard. Starting for himself at the age of fifteen he struggled against financial embarrassment and ill health, being also of frail physique, but by a manly and independent course, marked by industry, faithfulness and honesty, he gained the confidence and respect of the community, and gathered around him a host of friends. His early experience has made him a thorough and practical printer. The "Garrison Steam Printing House " has attained a•high reputation for the neatness and superior quality of its work. June 28, 1880, he married Nettie S., daughter of Asbury and Mary P. A. Reno, of Rochester, Penn. He is united with the M. E. Church, and is a member of the I. 0. 0. F. E. WILSON GRAY, banker; Alliance; was born in Salem, Ohio, April 20, 1825. He was the only son and fourth child born to William and Edith (Glover) Gray, in a family of seven children. The latter was a native of New Jersey, and the former of Pennsylvania., where they were married, and moved into Ohio at any early date. His parents were farmers, and in those pursuits Mr. Gray's boyhood was spent. Subsequent to his mother's death, his father traded off the farm, and entered into the mercantile business in Limaville, this county. At this time Mr. Gray was about 15 years of age, and had received some knowledge of the elementary branches taught in the common schools of that time. His opportunities for obtaining a thorough education were very limited, as he was taken into the store of his father at that time, and continued there for five years, when he began to read medicine with Dr. Day, who was also a merchant of Limaville, and with whom Mr. Gray remained in his study three years. At the expiration of this time he was employed by Dr. Day in the capacity of clerk, where he remained about one year; thence to Deerfield, in same capacity for about six months, when he returned to Limaville and opened a store of general merchandise on his own account in 1848, and conducted it until 1851. He removed to Deerfield again, and in partnership with Isaac 'Wilson, opened a store there, with several changes in the firm. Mr. Gray continued in the mercantile business until 1868, when he came to Alliance and entered into partnership with A. W. Coates, in the manufacture of horse hay-rakes, which continued until 1874. While he was yet engaged in the manufacturing business, he was also interested in the firm of Griener, Steel & Co., bankers, and on withdrawing from the firm of Coates, Gray & Co., was formed the present partnership of Lamborn & Gray, in 1875. He married Juliette Clark, Oct. 10, 1849; her father, Richard Clark and family, came from Massachusetts. By this union one child was horn, Helen F., who died in childhood. Mr. Gray is an active member of the following secret societies, viz: Masonic, I. O. O. F., Knights of Honor, and American :Legion of Honor. 'On May 6, 1881, Mrs. Gray departed this life in her 7lst year. CURTIS GODDARD, manufacturer of the "Right Speedy " Corn Sheller; Alliance; was born in Hartford Co., Conn., July 22, 1823. CITY OF ALLIANCE - 727 His parents were Joab and Martha Goddard, both natives of Connecticut. They reared two children to maturity, viz—Curtis and Rollin H. The father was a blacksmith by trade, but finally turned his attention to farming. When Curtis was about eight weeks old, the family moved to Ohio, and located at Windsor, Ashtabula Co., where they remained about a year, when they removed to Deerfield, Portage Co., where they remained about five years, and from thence went to Edinburgh, where the old folks died, many years ago. In youth, Curtis assisted his father at the blacksmith's trade, but when he grew to manhood he diverged to the carpenter's and joiner's trade, which he followed some time. In 1849 he returned to his native State, and engaged in the Collin's Ax Factory, of Collinsville, Conn., for some time, and thence went . to Pine Meadow, and worked there about a year and a half in Chapin's Tool Factory, and then returned to the old homestead in Edinburgh, O., where he farmed several years. He married Miss S, P. Jones, daughter of Thos. Jones, of Portage Co. They have two children—Minnie S., now Mrs. C. B. Haines, and Clarence A. Mr. Goddard is of an inventive turn of mind, and has secured various patents, among which we mention a machine for turning bedstead pins, which was extensively used while the cording method was in use, also a clothes line holder. In 1869 he came to Alliance, and engaged occasionally at joiners' work, erecting a gcod residence for himself. In 1875 he began work on his "Right Speedy " corn sheller, which was patented 1877, since which time he has devoted his attention to manufacturing, producing about 8,000 shellers annually, which are sold all over the United States, and some in Europe, principally in Bulgaria, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. July 31, 1879, the Italian government granted to Mr. Goddard a diploma and silver medal, demonstrating the favor with which this inexpensive sheller was met. Considering the utility and trifling expense to the purchaser as well as its durability, we doubt if its equal has ever been offered to the public. JONATHAN R. HAINES, farmer; P. O. Alliance; was.born in New Jersey, Dec. 28, 1821, the only child born to Abraham and Axey (Bryan) Haines, who lived to maturity. Jonathan Haines, the grandfather of the subject of these notes, was a native of New Jersey, who with his family moved to Ohio and settled in Columbiana Co., in 1802. Abraham (Jonathan R.'s father), was then a lad about 6 years old, and grew up to manhood in the pioneer days of Columbiana Co. Here he formed the acquaintance of Axey Bryan, a young lady who came from New Jersey to Ohio on a visit to some friends, which led to a matrimonial alliance, and after their marriage they began farming and clearing up their home. Some time later they paid a visit to the parents of his young wife, in New Jersey, and while there Jonathan R. was born. They returned to their home in Ohio, and continued to farm. Jonathan R. was reared to farming and its kindred pursuits. Sept. 28, 1841, he married Sarah Grant, daughter of John Grant, who emigrated from New Jersey, and settled where Mr. Haines now resides, in 1811, and remained in this place until his death which occurred in 1854. The latter part of his life was spent with Mr. and Mrs. Haines, as they came to his old homestead in 1852. " They have five children Jiving, viz.—J. Columbus; T. Foster; Charles B., of Warren, O.; Alma G., now Mrs. T. Lingo, of Warren, and Florence A., at home. Mr. Haines' ancestors were of the Society of Friends, but in his religious views he is unsectarian. Politically, he early in 1842, espoused the anti-slavery cause, which was a most unpopular cause at that time. Believing that the Republican party had fulfilled its destiny, he withdrew from its ranks, and affiliated with the liberal Democracy, which nominated Horace Greeley in 1872. He attended the convention in Cleveland, which nominated John C. Fremont for President in 1864. Mr. Haines has been a member of the Board of Education of Alliance for several years, and is. a member of the I. O. O. F. He is .one of those men who are favored with that most valuable and desirable gift, common sense, is pleasant and unassuming, and at all times the same, yet a man of clear and well-defined views. RICHARD W. HAINES, retired farmer; Alliance ; was born in Burlington Co., N. J., July 5, 1801. He is of English descent ; his grandfather, Ephraim Haines, and three brothers, emigrated from England to this country 728 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: during its colonial history ; some settled in New Jersey, some in Pennsylvania. John Haines, son of Ephraim, married one Mary Wells, and of their seven children Richard W. is the fifth. His early life was spent on his father's farm until early manhood, when he went to Philadelphia and learned the cabinet-maker's trade, remaining there about seven years, when he returned to New Jersey. In 1829 he removed to Ohio, and settled in Damascus, where he carried on the cabinet trade for about five years. He married Rebecca H. Crispin in July, 1830. She was a daughter of Abel and Hannah (Evans) Crispin, of Mahoning Co., formerly of New Jersey. In 1833 Mr. Haines turned his attention to farming in Lexington Tp., Stark Co., for a short time, and then removed to Goshen Tp., Mahoning Co., where he resided for a period of upward of thirty years. Their family having all married and doing for themselves, Mr. and Mrs. Haines sold their farm in 1873, and removed to Alliance, where they built a commodious residence, and are now, in their advanced years, enjoying the fruits of their industrious and well-spent lives. To them were born six children, viz.—Mary, Hannah, wife of B. F. Slusser, of Terre Haute, Ind.; John C., of lqt. Union ; Abel C., of Emporia, Kan.; Elizabeth, the widow of F. Lassaux, Creston, Iowa ; and Nancy R., now Mrs. J. P. Gaume, of Alliance. Mr. Haines was a staunch abolitionist, and early in the history of the Republican party espoused that cause. His religious training and views were those of the " Society of Friends," as were also those of Mrs. Haines. Her ancestors also are English, her paternal grandfather having emigrated here with William Penn. JAMES GUTHRIE HEATON, deceased; was born Feb. 5, 1838,in Millsborough, Washington Co., Pa., and came to Alliance when a young man, residing here a short time; he began the study of medicine with Dr. Painter, a homoeopathic physician, and attended lectures at the Cleveland Homoeopathic College. He then returned to his native place where he engaged in the practice of his profession until his preceptor, Dr. Painter, had an aberration of the mind which compelled him to withdraw from active life, when Dr. Heaton was solicited to return and take charge of the office and practice. After returning to Alliance Dr. Heaton graduated from the Cleveland Homoeopathic Medical College in 1869, and established a good practice in the vicinity of Alliance. He married Margaretta Williams, Dec. 14, 1865; she was daughter of John Williams of Mt. Union. She died Dec. 1, 1874, leaving three children—Clyde, Mary J. and Hugh. Jan. 18, 1876 he married Miss Susan R. Cooper, who was a graduate in medicine. She is a daughter of Morris Cooper of Lancaster Co., Pa. Dr. Heaton was seriously affected with pulmonary trouble, and with a view of seeking relief he started for. California, stopping a few days with friends at Des Moines, Iowa, where his disease culminated in death, June 27, 1876. Mrs. Heaton then returned to Alliance and remained a short time, when she removed to Colorado for a few months, but again returned to Alliance, and began the practice of her profession in the spring of 1878. Mrs. Heaton was a student of both schools of medicine, her first preceptor,. Dr. Philo P. Hatch, of Minneapolis, Minn., being one of the most prominent homoeopathic physicians of the Northwest. Under his instruction she became thoroughly acquainted with the practice of homoeopathy. She read medicine with Doctor Mary E. Wilson, also, who practiced under the Old-school system, and was a graduate of the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia. Mrs. Heaton attended lectures at the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, during the winter of 1873 and 1874, and graduated from that institution in 1875. MATTHIAS HESTER, retired; Alliance; was born in Green Co.. Penn., Oct. 17, 1793; the third son of a family of nine children born to John and Elizabeth (Mason) Hester. His mother was a daughter of one Martin Mason, who when a lad of 14 years, was stolen by the Indians from his home in Virginia, and brought to Ft. Duquesne—now Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where a Frenchman saw and took compassion on him, and finally purchased young Mason from the Indians for a bottle of rum. The Frenchman was on his way to Montreal, took Mason along,and there remained as one of the family until he was 21 years of age, then returned to his folks in Virginia, who bad long since given up any hope of ever hearing anything of him again. CITY OF ALLIANCE - 729   Mr. Hester's parents removed from Pennsylvania, and settled in Columbiana Co., Ohio, in 1807. They were agriculturists, but our subject being of frail physique, was apprenticed to the tailor's trade in New Lisbon. He commenced the business for himself in Salem, afterward remaining in it at that place about ten years. In 1836 he came to Mt. Union and opened a grocery store, but in 1838, removed his stock to Freedom—now Alliance, his being the first mercantile establishment in the place, and continued in business until 1848. He has always been an enterprising citizen, and very liberal with his means to assist any and every improvement of general interest. He was a warm supporter of the railroad enterprises of the town, when those corporations were an uncertainty, and donated to them over $6,000 worth of real estate. He married Susan Gaskill, of Salem, in 1819. Mrs. Hester died in March, 1864. They were the parents of ten children, viz:—David G.; John N., deceased; Sarah, Eliza, George W., deceased; Charles M.; Thomas; Rebecca, deceased; Harrison, deceased; and one died in childhood. Mr. Hester is now in his 88th year, and is remarkably well preserved for one of his age, though never of robust constitution. In later years he has enjoyed remarkably good health, and only through a slow, natural process of exhaustion of vital force is the finger of time discernible. He is a man of sterling character, honored and respected most by those who know him best. DAVID G. HESTER, agent for the White Bronze Monumental Works, and Insurance Agent; is the eldest son of Matthias Hester, was born in Salem, Columbiana Co., in May, 1821. In boyhood and early manhood he was occupied as clerk in his father's store, and continued in the mercantile business many years. In March, 1850, he married Sarah H. Fox, of Deerfield, Portage Co., Ohio. They have two children, Shelley and Frederick. In 1861 Mr., Hester opened a book and paper store in Alliance, which he conducted until 1873; and then engaged in the insurance business, representing a number of good companies, among which may be mentioned the Home of New York, Pennsylvania of Philadelphia, North American and Franklin of Philadelphia; Hartford, AEtna, and Phoenix of Hartford, and many other American companies, both life and fire ; besides the North British and Queen of England. In January, 1881, he was appointedagent for the White Bronze Monumental Manufacturing Company, of Bridgeport, Conn., for Stark and adjoining counties. In a short time this class of work promises to supersede marble and granite for statuary and monumental designs ; being beautiful in appearance, and as has been demonstrated in the " Old World, " is, by the action of the elements, unchanged for hundreds of years. SIMON JOHNSON, Mayor of Alliance; was born in Washington Tp., Stark Co., Nov. 12, 1826. His grandfather, Caleb Johnson, was a well-to-do farmer in Pennsylvania, and a man whose advice was largely sought in matters of local interest. He was appointed Justice of the Peace, and held said office continuously forty-eight years. He had a family of eight children, and the four boys, Ellis, Simon, Caleb and Job, emigrated to Ohio and settled in Stark Co.; of these only Ellis survives, in his 93rd year. The second one, Simon, married Keziah White, and came here about 1823. They reared a family of ten children, of whom our subject is the second, and bears his father's name. There were five girls and five boys, one of each sex being deceased. The Mayor's early education was such as the common schools afforded, besides some time spent in study at Mt. Union Seminary. He was one of the four students present at the organization of said institution, and subsequently took a course at Marlborough Academy. April 3, 1851, he married Jane Teeters, daughter of John Teeters, who resided near Salem. They moved to a farm in Knox Tp., Columbiana Co., where they resided eight years, three of which he served as -Justice of the Peace. In 1859 they removed to Alliance, and the following year he was elected Mayor, and served one year. In 1862 he was re-elected Mayor and served three years. At the expiration of this term of office, they removed to the old homestead in the country, and in 1868 returned to Alliance. During his residence here from 1859 he was largely engaged dealing in livestock through the period of the late civil war, and spent some time traveling in the interests of the agricultural works of Fisher, Shaw & Co., then of this town. Two years subse- 730 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: quent to 1868,he spent traveling as assistant State agent for the Security Life Insurance Co., of New York; three years for Forest City Fire Insurance of Cleveland, and one year for the Buckeye Insurance Co. in the spring of 1880 he was re-elected Mayor of Alliance, which office lie now holds. They have had five children, four of whom are living—John H., Rosetta, (deceased); Mary K., L. M., now in Akron, and William W. Mr. Johnson is a plain and unassuming gentleman of fine personal appearance, a man of sterling qualities, and most respected where he is best known. J. H. JOHNSON, Insurance Agent; Alliance ; is the eldest son of Simon and Jane (Teeters) Johnson ; he was born in Washington Tp., this county, Feb. 17, 1852. His education was secured at the public schools of Alliance, and he also spent a short time at the Alliance College. When quite young he began to assist his father, who was then representing several insurance companies, and has ever since devoted his attention to that line of business, and represents many of the most reliable insurance companies doing business on this continent, among which may be mentioned the Royal of England and the Travelers' Life and Accident of Connecticut. He married Rosa Hartzell, June 28, 1876 ; she was a daughter of Frederick Hartzell, of Belmont, Mahoning Co., Ohio. They have one child—Lucy K. Mr. Johnson has been a member of the Knights of Honor for the past six years. THOMAS J. JOHNSTON, City Marshal ; Alliance ; was born in Franklin Tp., Columbiana Co., Ohio, Sept. 25, 1847. He is the youngest of five children born to William and Elizabeth R. Johnston. His parents were both born in County Antrim, Ireland, and-came to the United States when quite young. His paternal grandfather, with his family, settled in Columbiana Co. about 1828,,and his maternal grandfather (whose name was also Johnston) settled in the same neighborhood about 1830, and all engaged in farming. When Thomas J. was about three years old his father died, leaving a widow and five children. Mrs. Johnston remained on the farm, and reared the children to farm life, and gave them a fair common-school education, and prepared them for doing for themselves. She lived to enjoy their filial affection, and died at the old home in September, 1879. The children are—Rosey, now Mrs. J. C. Shoemaker, of Alliance ; Robert, now in Marion Co.; Mary, who resides on the old homestead; William J., in Jefferson Co.; and Thomas J. When about 14 years old, Thomas J. began to learn the shoemakers' trade, and worked about a year and a half, when he enlisted, early in the summer of 1863, in the 12th Ohio Cavalry, being first under Gen. Burbage, but afterward transferred to Gen. Stoneman's command. He served until November, 1865, when he got his discharge and returned home, and employed himself at general business, principally bricklaying and plastering, for several years. March 3, 1870, he married Mary J. Aikens, of Alliance ; they have two children, viz.—Frank W. and Elizabeth J. Mrs. Johnston's parents came to the United States from France. Mr. Johnston came to Alliance in 1867 ; he took a position on the police force of Alliance in 1878, and in the spring of 1880 was elected City Marshal. JOHN JOSEPH, manufacturer of stoneware; Alliance; was born in Beaver Co., Penn., Aug. 27, 1837; son of Burton and Margaret (Kramer) Joseph, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The Joseph family came from Delaware to the "Keystone" State at an early date. The parents of our subject followed agricultural pursuits, to which he also was early initiated. They were parents of eight children, four of whom lived to maturity. In 1842 his father died, leaving a widow and four helpless children, viz : Alexander, Daniel, John and Burton, the youngest of which was born a few weeks after his father's demise. At this time they were on a large rented farm, and in order to provide the necessaries of life for her family, and get the business safely within her control, Mrs. Joseph gave up the rented place, disposed of their surplus chattels, and purchased a small piece of land, where the devoted mother reared and supported her family until they began to learn trades and do for themselves. John was especially restive, and in boyhood full of youthful mischief, which caused many an ominous shake of the wiseacres' heads. But as he advanced in years, and began to reach out into the realities of life, the scene changed materially. When a CITY OF ALLIANCE - 731 youth of about 15, he began to run on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., and eight years later, 1860, he was promoted to locomotive-engineer, where he remained until 1865, when he left the railroad to engage in teaming in Alliance. Thus he occupied his time until 1871, when he embarked in the coal trade until 1874. On abandoning the coal trade, he conceived the idea of establishing a pottery here, more for business recreation than out of necessity. In superintending this he takes great delight, and makes the finest kind of "stone-ware. " His business has been a pecuniary success, and conducted in such an unassuming manner that many of the citizens scarcely realize its proportions. He manufactures about sixty-five kilns, with an average of 3,500 gallons of ware of all kinds, to the kiln annually, and gives employment to ten hands. He has been married three times; first in 1855, to Margaret Durbin, who died in less than a year from the date of their marriage. His second marriage was with Mary E. Allerton, July 2, 1857; she died in 1877, leaving one child—Flora E. Nov.. 2, 1878, he married Margaret M. Gassaway, by which union there is one child—Gertrude M. Personally, he is a man much above the average size; his weight being upward of 300 pounds. At one time himself and two brothers, jointly, weighed nearly ten hundred pounds. When he began for himself he was without means of any kind, but by industry he has accumulated a fine property in Alliance, the income of which is more than sufficient for his every demand. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Knights of Honor, and American Legion of Honor. PETER D. KEPLINGER, boarding house keeper; Alliance; was born in Paris Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, Aug. 6, 1824. His father, Samuel Keplinger was a tobacconist, and a native of Adams Co., Penn. He married Miss Sarah Slagle, a native of the same county. Her father was financially well-to-do, and at an early date in the settlement of Stark Co., he came here and entered a large tract of land in what is now Paris Tp. In 1823, his son-in-law, Mr. Samuel Keplinger, removed with his young wife to the tract of land already referred to, with a view of occupying and improving that portion which his wife would eventually inherit. When they came here they were young, and knew little of the hardships which they would have to encounter in the almost unbroken forest; their means were limited and only the things actually necessary were procured. They erected in the woods a log cabin 10 x 12 feet, and lived in it without either floor, except the one formed by nature, or furniture; and the few rude things made of riven boards, forming bed-steads by driving posts in the ground. Such were the luxuries of pioneer life! But in a year or so they were able to erect a more comfortable dwelling. When they once got a patch of ground cleared, everything grew luxuriantly, but it was almost impossible to raise even a small sum of money. When they had been living in their new home over two years, the entire sum' of cash raised in that time by Mr. Keplinger was $1.50. There was no market or demand for anything produced in the country, consequently no circulation of money. The fond memory of other days and circumstances, with the pleasant associations of her girlhood, frequently caused the silent tears to tr'ckle down the young wife's cheek. But these times they outlived, the settlements increased, the country opened up to the outer world by the construction of the canal, circumstances and society changed, and their days of privation gave place to seasons of plenty. Mrs. Keplinger passed away in 1847, he in 1849. Peter D. was the oldest of their six children, and his early life was spent on the farm. He married Carolina Miller, but she died, leaving two children—Elmira and Samuel L. He then married Rachel Scheatzley. She was born in Germany, and came to Stark Co., with her parents in 1831, being at that time 8 years old. By this union three children were born, viz.—Mary L., Lyman D., and Frank E. In 1850, Mr. Keplinger engaged in the mercantile business in New Franklin, for about four years, thence went to North Georgetown, where he remained about six years in business. In 1860 he came to Alliance and has engaged in almost every kind of industry in the place. He was interested in the manufacture of light steel; also in the wagon and carriage hub factory, which burned down, causing him considerable loss; and, unfortunately he was the loser of $5,000 by the failure of the Fisher, Shalters & Co.'s agricultural works. 732 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Nevertheless, he has accumulated a good property, owning one of the best business rooms on Main street, occupied by Mr. Katzenstein, in the dry goods trade, besides other valuable property. MARION M. KING, Attorney at Law; Alliance; was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, May 31, 1852. He is the eldest of the family of four children of Levi and Mary (Lower) King, who were likewise natives of. the same county. His education was that afforded by the common schools and Georgetown Academy, which institution has been abandoned. When about 17 years of age he began to teach school in the winter months, and attended Mt. Union College during the spring and summer. He began the study of law with A. L. Jones, of Alliance, in 1872, and was admitted to the bar in the District Court of Stark Co., Sept. 17, 1874. He opened a law office in Alliance, where he practiced until November, 1880, when a partnership was formed with himself and his preceptor, under the firm name of Jones & King. March 6, 1877, he married Dora, daughter of Mr. A. L. Jones. They have one child—Roxy Verne. A. L. Jones was born in Columbiana Co., Nov. 27, 1826; he is the second in descent from Samuel Jones, a native of New Jersey, who emigrated to Virginia, and whose son, of same name (Samuel), emigrated to Ohio, and settled in Columbiana Co., near New Lisbon, at a very early day. A. L. was the eighth of ten children, and when about 15 years of age he was apprenticed to the tailor's trade, but abandoned that to secure a more liberal education, and attended an academy at Washingtonville and Marlborough. When about 26 years of age, he began to read law with W. D. Ewing, of New Lisbon, and in May, 1854, he was admitted to the bar, and in the fall of same year was admitted to practice in the Federal Courts. Oct. 2, 1849, he married Ruth A. Coffee, daughter of Joseph Coffee, of Columbiana Co. They had four children—Joseph C., Samuel A., Dora, now Mrs. King, and Ruth A. Mrs. Jones passed from this life Oct. 27, 1878. LEWIS KIRK, miller and general manager of the Alliance City Flouring Mill; Alliance; was born at Grampian Hills, Clearfield Co., Pa., Dec. 19, 1844. His father, Asaph Kirk, was born Feb. 10, 1814, and reared to agricultural prusuits in Clearfield Co., Pa. He married Eliza Wall, in 1835, she was born in York Co., Sept. 9, 1815, and when a little girl moved to Clearfield Co., with her parents. After their marriage they settled on a farm near the Grampian Hills P. 0., where they reside to this day, and where their family were all brought up to farm life, with very limited school facilities. They had five children—Mary, Jonathan, Jason, Lewis and Jane, all married. Lewis was the third son, and when about 21 years old he learned the art of photography, and followed it until August, 1868, when he started to Ohio in a one-horse wagon to seek a new field of labor; toward the close of the first day's travel, he stopped at a small town and while loitering around saw two bars of heavy iron nailed to the ground, and extending as far as he could see; upon enquiry, as to their use he was told that. it was a railroad, " What ? a railroad within one day's drive of Skunk-hollow." He then concluded to send his horse and wagon home and try the thing. He had heard of railroads somewhere, but knew nothing of academies and colleges, and was lost in amazement at the extent of the country when he got to riding in a big box with windows in it. He arrived in Ohio several days ahead of time, but he traveled over the State considerable, and finally selected Alliance as the most desirable spot to convert a Keystone boy into a Buckeye. His father and two uncles, Isaac and David Kirk, purchased the Alliance City Flouring Mills, and he took charge Jan. 15, 1869, as principal business manager, and apprentice to the milling trade. At Cleveland, Jan. 7, 1869, he married Hannah Margaret Spencer; they have three children—Cora V., Elsie F., Raphael S. Mrs. Kirk was born in Clearfield Co., Pa., April 23, 1850, and, is a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Stugart) Spence, who were married there in 1840, and in 1868, moved to Benton, Holmes Co., Ohio, with two sons, Jesse and Isaac, they are engaged in the milling business; their eldest son John was killed May 6, 1864, in the battle of the Wilderness, and Elsie the youngest is with her parents. In 1873, on the death of his uncles, our subject's father purchased their joint half interest in the mill, and the management remains unchanged. CITY OF ALLIANCE - 733 JASON KIRK, the second son, was born Oct. 7,1840, and worked on his father's farm until Aug. 12, 1862, when he enlisted in Co. E. 149, P. V. 1., one of the famous " Buck-tail " Regiments, of the Army of the Potomac, he was in the Seven-days' Fight, the Battle of the Wilderness, in the hottest contested points of the Battle of Gettysburg, and many others, and served until the close of the war, without receiving even a scratch. On returning from the army he learned, and afterward engaged in the photographic art until 1869, when he came to Alliance to assist his brother in running the mill, remaining until July, 1873, when he repaired to the oil-reigons of Pennsylvania, and engaged in drilling oil-wells until August, 1878, when he returned to Alliance, and resumed business as practical miller and business manager. He was married Sept. 9, 1875, to Anna E. Edwards, of Hoineworth, Columbiana Co., Ohio. SAMUEL KATZENSTEIN, Alliance; is one of the leading merchants of Alliance. He came from Europe to the United States when quite young. Having been engaged in the dry goods trade from early boyhood, he continued in that business in this country, and has now established one of the best dry goods houses in Alliance. LEVI LESLIE LAMBORN, physician and banker ; Alliance ; was born in Chester Co., Pa., Oct. 10,1829. He is the youngest son of a family of eleven children born to Townsend and Ann (Clayton) Lamborn. His father was a prominent Whig politician, and passed many years of his life as an officeholder in his county. He was greatly opposed to Freemasonry, and once ran for Governor of Pennsylvania on the anti-Masonic ticket. When young Lamborn was about 8 years old he came with some of his older brothers to Ohio, and located near Salem, where, in conformity with the religious creed of his relations, he was reared and educated in the schools of the "Friends." At the age of 15, having already determined upon medicine as a profession, he began reading under the supervision of Dr. Solomon Sleeve, of Damascus ; attended his first two courses of lectures in Philadelphia, and a third at the medical department of the Western Reserve College in Cleveland, where he graduated in 1849. He entered upon the practice of his profession in Mt. Union, where he continued fifteen years. In 1863 he removed to Alliance, and having practiced for three years he retired from the profession. In 1865, in company with others, he purchased 250 acres near Alliance, a part of which is now the southern addition to the city. In the sessions of 1859-60 and of 1860-61, he served as Clerk of the House of Representatives of Ohio, having been a Free Soil candidate for that body the year previous. Before the late war he was a Republican, but, possessing conservative views as to the policy to be pursued toward the South, he became what was known as a Union Democrat, and has since affiliated with that party. In 1874 he was a candidate for State Senator on the Democratic ticket, and in 1876 was nominated for Congress from the 17th Ohio District. In 1874 he engaged in private banking with E. W. Gray, though for several years previous he transacted quite an extensive loan and discount business. He possesses natural abilities of a high order, coupled with good judgment, great caution and shrewdness. He has acquired a leading position among the most successful business men of the county, and is of independent and decided views, being outspoken, yet of genial, affable manners. As a physician he enjoyed an extensive practice, and achieved position among the eminent practitioners of eastern Ohio ; was a member of the various medical associations of the County and State, and has been a member of the Board of Trustees of the State Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb, at Columbus. He is connected with no organization of any kind, secret or religious, but has been an earnest advocate of the policy of the Democratic party ; has acquired a reputation as a public speaker, and a prominent place among the effective platform orators of this part of the State. In June, 1851, he married Maria, daughter of Stacey Grant, of Alliance. They have had seven children, six of whom are living ; their only daughter, Lissetta L., is the wife of Alexander Fletcher, an official of the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R.; Leroy L. conducts one of the most extensive floral establishments in this part of the State. RICHARD LEE, retired farmer; P. O. Alliance; was born in Berks Co., Penn., Oct. 25, 1817. His great-grandparents were from Wales and Ireland. They came to this conti- 734 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: nent prior to the Revolutionary war, and settled in Pennsylvania. His father, Jeremiah B. Lee, married Mary Tea, of his native place. To them were born seven children, of whom the subject of these notes is the third. When he was about 10 years old his mother died, and father married again. Two children were the result of this union. Richard wa3 apprenticed to the pottery business when 10 years old, and continued in that business until about 24 years of age. In 1840, the family, consisting of father, step-mother and six children, came to Ohio and located at Albany, Columbiana—now Mahoning Co. They engaged in farming, and got along well in their new home. The old folks returned to their former home in Pennsylvania, on a visit after about two years residence in Ohio. When returning here his father took sick by the way and died at New Brighton. April 1, 1841, Richard married Susan, daughter of John and Mary Teeters, and began to farm for himself. He was appointed administrator of his father's estate; and unknown to the family his father had signed as surety the paper of a merchant of Salem, to the amount of $2,500, which became due soon after his death, and for which the farm was sold to meet the demand. Richard and a brother-in-law, William Hoppes, purchased the place between them and succeeded in making satisfactory arrangements, thus retaining the old homestead. Richard's early education was very deficient, as he was continuously engaged from 10 years of age until 15 years, in the pottery, having attended school about six months in all, after he was 10 years old. At 15 years of age, he was obliged to haul iron ore from the mines to the smelting works during the winter months, and through the summer continue in the pottery; thus he was employed until he was 24 years of age. In the meantime he had acquired a fair knowledge of the common branches of education by close and hard study at nights; by the light of the fire he eagerly perused what few books he could secure, and, although working hard, made more progress in gaining a knowledge of the practical idea than many who were favored with better facilities. In the spring of 1844, the family removed from Columbiana to Stark Co., and settled in Washington Tp., where Mr. Lee became one of the most successful farmers, and resided until 1875, when he retired from the farm and came to Alliance, where he has resided ever since. He officiated as Treasurer of Washington Tp., for twelve years; was County Commissioner six years, and is now serving his fifth year as Trustee of Lexington Tp. Early in life he affiliated with the Democracy; being opposed to the pro-slavery issues, he resolved to unite with the " Kno•Nothing" party, which was then being organized. Having presented himself for initiation, the secret oath being administered, in which there were unpleasant and unpatriotic issues developed, he instantly called a halt in ceremonies, reached for his hat, and bid the party a lasting farewell. To Mr. and Mrs. Lee five children were born—Mary, now Mrs. W. Coffee; Jeremiah, Ellen P., wife of T. F. Haines; Jane, wife of Robert W. Cook, and Jessie E. His son Jeremiah enlisted in the late war, 115th, 0. V. I., and served three years, having received his discharge the day he was 21 years old. He returned home broken down in health, married and survived until July 4, 1872, When he died of disease contracted in the service. HARVEY LAUGHLIN, attorney at law; Alliance; was born in Deerfield, Portage Co., Ohio, Jan. 10, 1813. His father, James Laughlin, was born in Virginia, and came to Pennsylvania with his parents when quite young; in the latter State he married Letitia Dunlap, and in the year 1800 they removed to Ohio, settling in Deerfield Tp., of Portage Co. They were parents of twelve children—six girls and an equal number of boys; ten grew up to maturity, seven of whom survive. Harvey was the eighth child. Mr. James Laughlin was by trade a mill-wright; he was a man of push and energy; with an idea of the early demand for milling in the rapidly developing settlement, he began the erection of a dam on the Mahoning River, one mile south of Deerfield Center. He put in machinery for both grist and saw-milling; this was among the first mills in Portage Co.; he lived there to a good old age, and passed away in 1851. His wife preceded him in death several years. Harvey obtained his education at the common schools and Sturdevant Academy of Talmadge. His early man hood was spent variously between teachin school and being employed in his father's mil CITY OF ALLIANCE - 735 and farming. In 1842 he began the study of law with Griswold and Grant, of Canton, and in the fall session of 1844, of the Supreme Court in Canton, he was admitted to the bar. He did not enter immediately upon the practice of law, but returned to the old homestead in Deerfield, Portage Co., and of which he had charge until 1852. That same year he moved to Alliance, and opened a law office, where lie has practiced ever since. He has been twice married, first to Sarah A. Baldwin, of Wheeling, Va., in 1836, who died, leaving one child—Sarah A. His _second marriage was with Minerva M. Mills, of Deerfield, in May, 1840. By this union five children were born, four of whom are living, viz.—Eliza M., Harvey C., James L. and Mary E. His eldest son, Harvey, has been in the employ of the Pioneer Oil Co., of Cleveland, in the capacity of book-keeper for the past ten years. James L. graduated from Harvard College, in 1873, where he is, now Assistant Professor of Political Economy. JONATHAN MYERS, contractor and builder ; Alliance ; was born in Smith Tp., Mahoning Co., Ohio, June 6, 1836. His father's name was Jonathan Myers, who was born in Virginia, Nov. 11, 1806. , When quite young, his parents removed from Virginia to Carroll Co., Ohio, and when he arrived at manhood he worked at the carpenter's trade. He finally married, and with his wife removed to Smith Tp., Mahoning Co., where he engaged in farming. They reared eleven children, seven boys and four girls ; of these, ten lived to maturity. The subject of these notes is the third child of the family he received the ordinary tuition afforded in the common schools, and until about 22 years of age was variously engaged on his father's extensive farm and in working at the carpenter's trade ; for the latter he had a decided natural turn of mind. He began for himself, with what experience he had then acquired, in contracting and building, throughout the neighborhood, in which operations he was quite successful. Aug. 5, 1862, he enlisted in Co. H, 105th O. V. I., and went to the front ; on the 8th of October, the same year, while participating in the battle of Perryville, Ky., he was shot through the right arm, breaking it above the elbow, which disabled him from further duty as a soldier ; he lay there in hospital three months, and was then removed to Louisville, Ky., where he was discharged Jan. 14, 1863, on account of disability. The ensuing summer he attended a select school in Mahoning Co., and in 1864 lie accepted a position as bookkeeper in the planing-mill of John Packer, where he remained seven months, when he purchased a piece of real estate in Alliance, and began building, and selling house and lot as soon as finished. He did a good business in this way during the influx of population to the town when it was comparatively new. This line of business he has continued ever since, besides being for three years the partner of J. T. Weybrecht in the planing-mill and lumber business. June 8, 1865, he married Emeline Coppock, a daughter of Pleasant and Lydia E. Coppock, of Mahoning Co. They have five children living--Mary (deceased), Charles S., Howard F., Orlando B., Oscar and Edward ; one died in childhood. Besides his town property, he purchased in April, 1880, a farm of 120 acres adjoining the city corporation. B. F. MERCER, manufacturer of wooden pumps; Alliance; was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, Dec. 20, 1831. He is the son of Solomon and Elizabeth (Fitzpatrick) Mercer, who were both natives of this State. His father learned the potters' trade, and worked at it in his younger days, but subsequently turned his attention to farming, where he reared his family. Consequently the early life of B. F. was spent on the farm, and at the age of 15 he was apprenticed to the carriage manufacturing business in Massillon, and worked at that trade, including a term of apprenticeship, about fifteen years. In 1864 he removed to Alliance, and embarked in the manufacture of horse, hay and grain-rakes, and conducted that three years; the business could scarcely be considered a financial success, and abandoned it. In 1868, in partnership with Dr. Armstrong, he established the manufactory of wooden pumps, and about one year later he purchased the interest of his partner, since which time he has conducted the business himself. In this he has been favored with a rapidly extending patronage ; lays no claim to any new-found plan or patent, but manufactures a first-class pump, of the very best material, for either deep or shallow wells. His establishment is commodious and 736 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: suited to his business; he employs five to ten hands, according to the season of the year, and turns out about 5,000 pumps annually, which are sold to dealers throughout the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Michigan, April 13, 1851, he married Sarah C. Freer, of Paris, this country. They have three children, viz.—Harley F., Fannie and Burr S. CHARLES L. MORGAN, physician and surgeon; Alliance; was born Sept. 19, 1857, in Alliance. He is the son of John C. and Elizabeth (Pennock) Morgan, both of whom are natives of Ohio. Charles L. is the second son of three children. He received a thorough practical education in the public schools, and in 1871 entered Mt. Union College, and subsequently graduated from the High School of Alliance, and in 1876 began the study of medicine with Dr. J. H. Tressel, in this place. The first course of lectures he attended was in the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati; and again at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Baltimore, Md., where he graduated in 1879. He began the practice of his profession in partnership with Dr. E. Luellen, of Westfield, Morrow Co., and in 1880 he removed to Alliance, where he has established himself, and, so far, has secured a good patronage, which is daily increasing. As a student he was a close worker and observing, and as a practitioner no doubt the same characteristic will predominate. With his naturally agreeable and pleasing manners, combined with his professional ability, it is only a question of a short time and circumstances when he will stand in the first ranks of the profession. While he is proficient in all branches of the science of medicine, surgery claims his special attention. Sept. 2, 1880, he married V. Estella Miller, daughter of Dr. Jesse Miller, of Alliance. EMERY MILLER, dealer in live stock; Alliance; was born in Mahoning Co., Ohio, July 21, 1839. The second of nine children born to John H. and Elizabeth (Ilgenfritz) Miller; and in youth was brought up to farming and its kindred pursuits. After the regular course of study in the district schools, he received a liberal education in the Canfield Academy, and began teaching school when 16 years of age; having completed six terms before he was 21 years old, some of the time being em ployed in the schools of New Middleton. When of age, he began to clerk in a dry goods store, and a year later (1861) he came to Alliance, and opened a dry goods store which he continued for eight years ; when he purchased a good farm of 240 acres in Mahoning Co., a short distance from Alliance, and engaged in stock dealing extensively, to which business he devotes his whole attention. His annual shipments average about 500 head of horses, sold principally in Philadelphia, and about 1200 head of cattle, which are slaughtered principally in Youngstown, Ohio, to supply the meat market of his brother, whose patronage requires upwards of 1200 beeves yearly. In March, 1860, Mr. Miller married Maggie I., daughter of David Weikart, of Mahoning Co. Three children have been born to them, viz: Austie I., Ivie C., and Chloe E. Mr. Miller has pursued industriously a straight, business-like course, which has been greeted with more than ordinary success. He began in business with a very limited amount of capital, and has now, in the prime of life, a competency; for, besides his stock-farm, he owns 9 acres within the corporate limits of Alliance, on which he erected one of the finest residences in Alliance, in 1877, at a cost of upwards of $11,000, with all necessary out-buildings. He is an active member of the Society of American Legion of Honor. JESSE MILLER, physician and surgeon; Alliance; son of Rev: John B., and Sarah Miller; was born in Washington Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, May 4, 1837. His early education was received in the common schools, and subsequently at Mt. Union Seminary; he began teaching in his 17th year, during winter, and attended school in the interval. In 1858 he began the study of medicine with J. P. Gruwell, M. D., at Damascus, Ohio; attended lectures at the University of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, and graduated there in March, 1871. He married Maria Summer, daughter of David and Anna Summer of Columbiana Co., Sept. 29, 1859; he began the practice of his profession in 1861 at North Benton, Ohio; where he remained until he engaged in the war of the late rebellion in 1864, as Assistant Surgeon, U. S. A., and was assigned to duty, first at Indianoplis, soon after ordered to Louisville, Ky., and from CITY OF ALLIANCE - 737 there went to Nashville, Tenn., and was assigned to general hospital No. 2, where he remained until March, 1865, when he returned home having contracted rheumatism from which he has suffered severely since. In 1869 he was compelled to quit practice, on account of disability induced by rheumatism, and de- cided to try a change of climate. He then removed to Topeka, Kan., where he resided five years without any improvement, but his rheumatic trouble had so far disabled him as to make him almost entirely helpless. He returned to Ohio in 1874, and located in Alliance where he now resides. His suffering has been extreme, even to the dislocation of his joints; his esteemed wife has been his constant companion and care-taker during these many years of his affliction, which he has borne with patient resignation. They have two children, viz.—Viola Estelle, and William Leslie. REV. JOHN B. MILLER, Presbyterian minister ; Alliance ; was born near North Benton, Columbiana (now Mahoning) Co., Ohio, geb. 13, 1816. His father, Abraham Miller, was a native of Fayette Co., Pa., and moved to Ohio and settled in smith Tp. of Columbiana Co., in 1804 ; his wife's name was Nancy Blackburn ; they reared a family of eight children. The children were sent to subscription schools in the winter, and were reared to the industries of farm-life during summer. In this way John B. secured a good practical education, and was never an hour under instruction which was paid from any public fund. When about 12 years of age he united himself with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and early distinguished himself as a leader ; on the day he was 16 years of age he received a license from that denomination to exhort in Randolph, Portage Co., and was regularly ordained at Warren, Trumbull Co., Aug. 1, 1841, as a local minister. Two years subsequent to his ordination, when the Church was divided on the issue of slavery in the United States, Mr. Miller went with the seceding faction and joined the Wesleyan Methodists, in August, 1843 ; he was then appointed to a circuit, and spent ten years as traveling minister, principally in the "Western Reserve," except one year which lie spent in the Westville circuit, in the counties of Columbiana and Stark. Although everything was in harmony as regarding his connection with the Wesleyan body, yet his better judgment and more cool reflection would continually deprecate his withdrawal from the Methodist Episcopal body. In December, 1853, he united himself with the Westville Presbytery, and was received by that body on certificate from the Wesleyan Methodists, as an ordained minister, as he had been ordained an elder while connected with the Wesleyan Methodist Church. He was then installed pastor of the Presbyterian Church at New Waterford, Columbiana Co., where he preached fourteen years, when he received and accepted a call to preach at Enon Valley, in Pennsylvania, where he remained three years, when he accepted a call from the churches of Bethesda and Hanover, in Columbiana Co., where he preached three years, half the time to each church, as neither congregation was able to sustain regular weekly service. He then severed his relation with the Hanover church, and preached two years, giving all his time to the church at Bethesda. In April, 1877, he was obliged, on account of failing health, to give up his charge at Bethesda, since which time he has been supplying different churches ; for about eighteen months past he has been preaching to the congregation at New Harrisburg, Carroll Co. Dec. 2, 1834, he married Sarah Shaffer, and to them were born twelve children, eight of whom are living, viz.—Jesse (whose sketch is in this work), Bradford, now Treasurer of Shawnee Co., Kan.; William W. and Hiram B., partners in mercantile and live-stock trade, in Osage, Kan.; Henry H., a physician, in practice at Rossville, Kan.; John A., in the boot and shoe business in North Topeka; Stephen is a merchant in Florence, Kan.; Jane A. is now Mrs. William Millard, of this county. Mrs. Miller died Nov. 6, 1865 ; Mr. Miller married his second wife, Mrs.Mary Boies, nee Hamilton, widow of the late W. Boies, Nov. 6, 1866. Although well advanced in years, Mr. Miller is a man full of vitality, energetic in the good cause, an ever-ready and zealous worker; what he may have lacked, in early life, in collegiate education, is fully compensated in native ability, a large amount of commonsense, seasoned with a long and varied experience. Five of his sons were engaged in the late civil war, viz.—Jesse, Bradford, John A., 738 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: William W. and Hiram B. Bradford served for some time as Assistant Provost Marshal at Alliance. WILLIAM McLERAN, commercial traveler and hardware merchant; Alliance; was born at Philadelphia, April 28, 1832. His parents were Jame& and Mary (Brown) McLeran, both natives of Scotland; who came to the United States with their respective families when children. James McLeran engaged in the manufacture of woolens in Philadelphia, and continued in that business until 1832, when he removed with his family to Salem, Columbiana Co., Ohio, where he engaged in coverlid and carpet weaving, and continued in that business until his death, which occurred in 1852. His widow survived un til 1867. They had four children—James, John; and Mary and William (twins). William's boyhood was spent in Salem, and when about 14 years old, he began to clerk in a store of general merchandise, and remained three years, when he began to learn the carriage-blackstnithing trade, and worked at that for four years. Being much inclined to travel, he decided on making a tour of the Western States and Territories, which, including his stay in California, occupied a period of four years. In 1855, he left California, and returned to Ohio, and engaged in the dry goods business in Hanover, and subsequently in the merchant-tailoring in Salem for several years, and then disposed of his interest in that business to his brother, who was his partner, and went to Pittsburg in April, 1859, where he engaged in the hardware-jobbing business until January, 1861, when he went to Philadelphia, and has been a commercial traveler from the latter city ever since. His experience for the last twenty-one years as traveling salesman over the north-west, has been varied and interesting. His strict integrity and close attention to business has placed him high in the confidence of his employers, and won him many friends among his patrons. Nov. 7, 1855, he married Laura J. Laubie, daughter of James Laubie, of Salem, formerly of Pittsburg, Pa. In the spring of 1881, he established a retail hardware store in Alliance, in partnership with his nephew, Will. M. Crumrine, the latter gentleman has charge of the business, in which he has had considerable experience. He was born in Salem, Ohio, April 28, 1856; son of Daniel and Mary (McLeran) Crumrine —she the only sister of Mr. McLeran. Mr. Crumrine was engaged in a hardware store where he remained six years, and then accepted a position in the wholesale house of Wagner & Forney, of Mansfield, as traveling salesman, which position he resigned when the firm of McLeran & Crumrine was formed. WILLIAM MURPHY, manufacturer and t repairer of steam boilers, &c.; Alliance ; was born in Cork, Ireland, Feb. 10, 1846. When he was about 3 years old, his parents came to the United States, and settled at Buffalo, N. Y. There his mother died, and his father married a second wife, and reared a large family. When about 19 years of age, William began to work with the Buckeye Boiler Co., of Cleveland; finished his trade with the Variety Iron Works Co., and subsequently established a shop in Newcastle, Penn., but being in limited financial circumstances, he suffered considerable loss in the panic of 1873, and was obliged to suspend business in that place. He then opened a shop in the oil regions of Pennsylvania, which he finally sold and returned to Ohio. On Aug. 29, 1872, he was married to Margar.,t Ryan, daughter of William Ryan, of Mt. Union. Since their return to Ohio, Mr. Murphey worked at his trade during the winter months, and worked Mr. Ryan's farm during the summer, until November, 1880, when he established his present boiler works in the old Nixon agricultural works building, where he does all kinds of boiler manufacturing and repairing. They have three children—William F., Charles H., and John A. J. W. McFARLAND, machinist and manufacturer of engines; Alliance; was born in Chester Co., Penn., August 26, 1833; he is the youngest of five children of John and Ann (Wiley) McFarland. His father died when he was quite young, and until about his 17th year he lived and worked on the farm. He then began to learn the machinist's trade at the Brandywine Machine Works, and served four years. In 1855 he came to Ohio, and started a saw-mill near Salem, Columbiana Co., and ran that about three years. He came to Alliance in the spring of 1860, and was employed in the machine works here as " master mechanic;" he CITY OF ALLIANCE - 739 held this position until 1866, when he removed to Coatesville, Penn., and engaged at his trade there several years, after which he returned to Alliance and took charge of Nixon & Co.'s works for a short time. In 1872 he began business for himself; although his out-set was at a time most unfavorable for business enterprise, he pushed his work perseveringly and steadily in a small way, and has been favored with unexpected success, employing now five or six hands, as trade demands. In June, 1858, he married Phcebe P. Babb, of Chester Co., Penn. They have two children—Laura E., (who has charge of the books of the concern), and Leetta. ISAAC C. MILBOURN, general stationery dealer; Alliance; was born in Hanover, Co- lumbiana Co., Ohio, Nov. 19, 1828. He is the youngest of a family of eight children, one girl and seven boys, born to Samuel and Jane (Craig) Milbourn, who removed from Virginia to Ohio about 1804. They located on a farm in Columbiana Co., and on which they ever afterward resided until their demise, which occurred, his in 1864, and his widow survived until 1870, both well advanced in years. Isaac C. Milbourn's youth was spent on the farm until about 18 years of age; he then learned the carpenter's trade, and followed that business until 1864. The following year he abandoned the carpenter business and opened a store of general hardware in Waynesburgli, this county, which he conducted two years, and then embarked in the dry goods trade until 1869. He disposed of his business in Waynesburgh, and came to Alliance the same year, and took a contract of grading the Pittsburg, Baltimore & Ohio R. R., from Connellsville to Cumberland, which occupied him over a year. His contract completed, he returned to Alliance in 1870, and, to learn the business, he accepted a clerkship in a stationery establishment, which he purchased in 1874, and has conducted that business ever since. March, 1853, he married Elizabeth Manfull. They had one child who died when 4 years old. Mrs. Milbourn is a daughter of Stephen Manfull, of Augusta, Carroll Co. Ohio. FRANK M. ORR, tin, stove, and hardware merchant; Alliance; was born in Harrison Co., Ohio' July 12, 1838; the son of John and Elizabeth (Adkinson) Orr, who came from Virginia to Ohio, and located in Harrison Co. His father was a mill-Wright by trade, but after coming to Ohio his time was spent principally in farming. They reared eight children of whom Frank M., is the only survivor; he got the advantages of a good common school education, and being left to his own resources at 10 years of age, he learned industry and economy out of necessity. At 15 years of age he began to learn the tinner's trade in Carrollton, Carroll Co., and in 1856 removed to Canton, where he worked at his trade until 1862. In the spring of that year he moved to Alliance, and set up in business for himself, where he has continued in the tin, hardware, stove and house-furnishing trade ever since. In his business career there existed a partnership until 1873, which terminated then by Mr. Orr purchasing the entire business, immediately preceding the panic of 1873; in this he was a heavy loser, but through energy and good executive business tact he surmounted the impending difficulties of trade and has done a flourishing business since. In October, 1859, he married Isabel Grim, for whom he had formed an early attachment in youth, in Harrison Co. By this union were born eight children, six of whom are living, viz.—Alice (now Mrs. H. H. Highland), Elmer E., Kittie, Lou A., William J. F., and Edna B. Mr. Orr has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1860, and is a member of the Royal Arcinum. MORRIS C. PENNOCK, hardware merchant and banker; Alliance; of the firm of Wright & Pennock; was born in Chester Co., Penn., May 22, 1830, and is the son of John and Sidney (Chambers) Pennock. The Pennock family in this country trace their ancestry back to one Christopher Pennock, who was an officer in the British army, but on embracing the religion of the Quakers, he resigned his position in the army and came to Pennsylvania with Wm. Penn, when the latter came to this continent on his second visit. Christopher Pennock had three sons who were the heads of the various branches of that family now in the United States. The parents of our subject removed from Pennsylvania to Ohio in 1832, and settled about eight miles south of Salem, where they farmed about 10 years, and then moved to the near vicinity of Salem, where they now reside; their ages re- 740 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: spectively being 79 and 74 years; they reared a family of five children, four of whom are living, viz.—Elizabeth, now Mrs. Jos. Davis; Morris C.; Rachel P. now Mrs. C. Bonsall; and Sidney M. They were brought up to farm life, and got a liberal education in the public schools. Morris C. attended a private school in Salem, and for six or eight years he taught school in the winter, and worked on the farm during the summer. In March, 1857, he married Emma E. Wright, daughter of Redmond Wright, of Trumbull Co. They had one child, now deceased. For the purpose of learning the hardware business, he accepted a clerkship in an establishment of that kind with Chessman & Wright, of Salem, which he retained until 1862; when a partnership was formed between himself and Mr. Alfred Wright. Their present hardware house was established, and to it Mr. Pennock gives his undivided attention. In all their business enterprises they have been greeted with that success which awaits industry and honest effort. He is one of the originators of the First National Bank of Alliance, which was organized in 1872, and has been a member of its Board of Directors ever since the organi- zation, and is now the Vice-President. He has also been a member of the City Council, and is president of the Board of Education. Mrs. Pennock, his first wife, died in 1862; and in May, 1868, he married Mrs. A. Keith, née Colestack; she has one child, Chas. S. Keith, by her first husband, who is engaged in the store. WILLIAM REYNOLDS, retired train conductor and merchant; Alliance; was born in Monmouthshire, England, Aug. 5, 1821. When he was about 20 years of age his brother John, their father, George Reynolds, and himself emigrated to the United States. They came to Fallstown, Penn., where their father engaged at his trade, that of wire- drawing, as did the subject Of these notes; but death called John away ere they had been long in this country. In 1851, our subject engaged with the Ohio & Pennsylvania R. R. Co., now the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., as wood contractor while it was being constructed. As soon as the road was in order for running trains, he was employed as baggage master on the train, and was soon pro- moted to conductor, in Which capacity he has been on every grade of train from the gravel or construction train, up to the " Lightning Express," being the conductor on the first Lightning Express, and the conductor on the last trip made by the Lightning Express, which trains were run during a period of heated competition of the " Trunk" Lines. He married Margaret J. McDonnal, of Alliance, in 1853, formerly of Florence, Penn. Subsequent to their marriage, he settled on a farm and in 1860, they came to reside in town where they have remained ever since. They have one child—Elizabeth Jane. In 1863 he opened a hotel in Alliance, having secured a contract for supplying the soldiers who were called thither, this being the headquarters of the Provost Marshal for this district. He is a gentleman of shrewd business faculties and has been several times in the mercantile business; when proper opportunity would present itself, he would purchase or sell out his business, and never devoted himself to any special branch of business; with all he has been favored with success. He united himself with the Masonic fraternity in New Brighton, Penn., and with the lodge there, he has sustained his membership for a period of upwards of twenty-five years. WILLIAM A. ROUTSON, master of transportation on the Eastern division of P., Ft. W. & C. R. R.; Alliance; was born Sept. 24, 1841, in Wayne Co. Ohio, and is the second of a family of eight children, born to Samuel and Jane (Morrison) Routson. His father was extensively engaged in the manufacture of stone-ware and sewer-pipe, which business he conducted for many years. William A. received a liberal education, and early in life began to learn the art of telegraphy, and was variously employed as operator and superintendent's clerk, at Mansfield for some time. On .leaving Mansfield he was given charge of the railroad and telegraph offices at Wooster, where he remained several years; thence to Massillon, and had charge of the railroad office there as freight and ticket agent, until 1872, when he was promoted to Master of Transportation on the New Castle and Lawrence branches, of the Pennsylvania R. R. In 1875 he was appointed to his. present position, including also the Massillon Branch R. It His position is one of much responsibility and trust. During these many years of railroad CITY OF ALLIANCE - 741 business in the various departments, from the least up to his present position, he has always been faithful and diligent in the discharge of his duty. In October, 1865, he married Eliza K. Finley, daughter of Rev. Robert M. Finley, a Presbyterian Minister, of Wooster, Ohio. One child is the result of this union—William A., Jr. H. R. RUTH, merchant; Alliance; was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Jan. 10, 1831, the fifth child of a family of twelve children born to Peter and Kesiah (Regar) Ruth, both natives of Pennsylvania. They removed to Ohio and settled in Osnaburg, Stark Co., engaging in the hotel business, where they remained about fifteen years, and finally removed to Columbiana Co., where they died, well advanced in life; he in his 87th, and she in her 80th year. When about 16 years of age, young Ruth engaged as clerk in Minerva for a short period, thence went to Canton where he held a similar position with M. Wikidall; thence to Osnaburg, and engaged with the Kountz Bros., who are now so favorably and well known as bankers and merchants in New York, Omaha and Denver. In 1853 he established a store of general merchandise in partnership with George Sloan, Sen., in Hanover, Columbiana Co., where he conducted business until 1860, and thence went to Augusta, where he was in business three years. He came to Alliance in 1864, and was in the mercantile business a short time when he accepted a position as commercial traveller, and remained in that capacity about ten years. In 1877 he opened a notion and fancy-goods store, and does a prosperous business. He married Hannah Hamilton, Sept. 28, 1854, of Hanover. They have five children, viz—Charles, William, Clifford, Frank and Katie. Of his father's family of twelve children, eight are still living—Elizabeth, married Charles Haines, of Minerva, who is now in the oil trade at Oil City, Penn., since 1860; Mary A., has been twice a widow, her first husband was R. Smith, after his decease she married William Frost; William, married Adaline Kountz, and resides in Denver, Col.; Matilda, deceased, was wife of Henry Shaffer, of Saline, Ohio; Kate is now the wife of Augustus Kountze, senior member of the Kountze Bros. Banking House, New York; Jefferson is a resident of Utah, dealing in agricultural implements; Emma, unmarried, resides in Hanover, Ohio; Rufus C. is a commercial traveler for a Philadelphia house for the last six years. HENRY SHAFFER, farmer and shipper of moulding sand; P. O. Alliance; was born in Washington Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, Jan. 7, 1834; the fourth of eight children born to Samuel and Mary (Berger) Shaffer, whose sketch appears in this work. His parents moved to Alliance when he was quite young. He went out to his uncle Jonathan Shaffer's, where he lived three years. When about 16 years of age, he began to learn the carpenter's trade with James K. Blackburn, and followed that business until 1856, in the meantime having contracted and built many farm buildings. Dec. 24, 1855, he married Elizabeth Chance; they have one child, Franklin H. Mrs. Shaffer is a daughter of Perry and Lovina Chance, of Alliance. For two years he was running a saw-mill, and in 1858 he rented a small farm and turned his attention to farming, which lasted only that season. Having lost all his crops by the severe and memorable freeze in June, 1858, he became disgusted, and secured a position on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., as a brakeman, but was soon placed in charge of a freight train; then promoted to conductor on a passenger train between Ft. Wayne and Chicago, having his residence in the latter place, from 1861 to 1866.. They returned to Alliance, when he quit railroad work, where he has remained since. He purchased a small farm of 43 acres, on which is found valuable beds of moulding sand, for which there is a good demand in the moulding establishments all over the country, from Pittsburg east, to Indianapolis and Chicago in the west Mr. Shaffer has been a member of the Masonic featernity since 1866. He has been a Director of the Alliance & Lake Erie Railroad, and for two years Superintendent of said railroad, and one of its promoters. JOHN SEFERT, meat market; Alliance; was born in Canton Tp., Ohio, July 17, 1832. He is the oldest son of ten children born to Michael and Sally (Wills) Sefert. They came to Stark Co., about 1828, when much of it was yet in its natural condition. Their children are—John, George, Carolina (deceased), Sarah, Michael, Christian, Henry, Washington, Cora and Alice. Having spent his early manhood on his father's farm, John engaged 742 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: in the butchering business in Waynesburg four years, when he removed to Alliance and opened up the same business here which he closed out in a year to take a position on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., where he was employed ten years, nine of which he was conductor. He then resigned his railroad position, and started again in the meat market in Alliance, which he has continued ever since. Nov. 13, 1854, he married Anna Griffith, a daughter of Jacob Griffith, of this county. They have had nine children, viz.—Carolina, Hulda E., George H., William E., Franklin (deceased), Mary A., Salome B., Emma A., and one died in childhood. Mr. Sefert is a quiet, industrious citizen, and has been a member of theMasonic fraternity for the last sixteen years. RALPH SCRANTON, deceased, was born in Atwater, Portage Co., Ohio, August 12, 1812. In youth he learned the cabinet-making business in Ravenna, and worked at his trade in Deerfield for ten years. In 1846 he purchased a small farm in Lexington Tp., Stark Co., and carried on his trade in connection with his farming. They sold out in 1850, and removed to the farm where his widow now resides In the fall of 1835, he married Elizabeth Pickering. She was born in Dorchester, Eng., Oct. 23, 1814, a daughter of Joseph and Annie Pickering, who with their seven children, emigrated to the United States in 1830; came direct to Deerfield, Portage Co., Ohio, where they located and remained until their death. To Mr. and Mrs. Scranton were born ten children, nine living, viz.—Lovina, Irving, Edwin E., Pamelia, Harrison, Albert, Louisa, Aldine and Rosetta. Mr. Scranton died April 10, 1867. Two of their sons participated in the late war—Irving and Edwin E. The former was, at the time of the outbreak of the rebellion, a resident of Iowa, and enlisted in the 16th Ia. V. I., was seriously wounded by gunshot at the battle of Pittsburg Landing, from whence he was discharged because of disability. EDWIN E. SCRANTON, railroad agent; Alliance ; was born March 2, 1840, while his parents resided in Deerfield, and is the third child of the family. He was educated at the Public Schools, and at Mt. Union College, where he took a course extending over two years. For two years he taught school in the counties of Stark and Portage. He enlisted in the late war, Oct. 28, 1861, in Co. B., 65th O. V. I. On July 1, 1864, he was promoted to First Lieutenant, and steadily rose in favor in his regiment. Jan. 1, 1865, he was promoted to Regimental Adjutant, and Nov. 30, was mustered out, with the rank of Captain. His war record is in every respect highly honorable, and so far as escape from injury is concerned, was exceedingly fortunate, considering that he participated in fourteen of the most prominent battles of the whole campaign; among which we may mention the engagements at Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, through the Atlanta Campaign, Franklin and Nashville, besides many skirmishes. On his return from the army, he farmed two years, then disposed of his interests in that line and for the greater part of his time since was in the employ of the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R. Co., engaged in office work at Alliance, until the spring of 1881, when he engaged with the Lake Erie & Alliance R. R. Co. He attends to general office work, and is agent for said company at Alliance. Feb. 28, 1866, he married Hannah, daughter of Robert and Abigail Wood. They have five children—Melville, Clarence, Laurin, Evelina and Edison E. Mr. and Mrs. Scranton are members of the M. E. Church. He has been for two years a member of the City Council, and served three years on the Board of Education of Alliance, and for two years Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday School. JACOB SHAFFER, treasurer and secretary of the Alliance Bagging Co.; Alliance; was born in Washington Tp., this county, July 3, 1828. He is the son of Samuel and Mary M. Shaffer, who is referred to elsewhere in this work. His boyhood wis spent in his father's store as clerk while he was yet quite young, in which capacity he continued many years. On attaining his majority he entered into partnership with his father in the mercantile business; they established a general store of merchandise, besides handling produce largely. They also took in as partner one A. C. Hanger, the firm name being S. Shaffer & Co., which was dissolved in 1857. Our subject then embarked in the dry goods trade with Mr. Keplinger for about three years. In 1862 a partnership was formed be- CITY OF ALLIANCE - 743 tween himself and Mr. Ely, in the mercantile business which lasted until 1872. In the meantime he and Mr. Ely had taken an interest in the bagging manufactory, and ere long Mr. Shaffer joined the latter establishment, and has been an active member of the firm ever since. He was married to Emeline Stanley in March, 1848. She was a daughter of L. B. Stanley, of Mahoning Co. They have six children, viz.—Minerva J., Emma S., Alonzo T., Frovilla, Charles C., and Henry C. Mr. Shaffer is one of those unassuming, quiet business men, who watch their own business interests without courting a superficial popularity. He has been elected, and served several years as member of the Alliance Town Council. GEORGE SEFERT, meat market; Alliance; was born in Canton, Ohio, March 3, 1834; the second son of ten children born to Michael and Sally (Wills) Sefert. He was brought up to farm work in youth, and when about 16 years of age, he went to Wheeling, Va., where he was engaged in the glass-blo,ving business about five years. Returning to this county he engaged in farming and stock-dealing with his father, who was largely engaged in driving live stock. In 1858 he opened a meat market in Waynesburgh, and the following year moved to Minerva, where he continued his business until 1862. On Feb. 8, of that year, he enlisted in the 3d O. L. A. of the late war, and was assigned to duty as Sergeant, and afterward was promoted to Orderly Sergeant, then to 2d Lieutenant, and then to Senior 1st Lieutenant, in which capacity he served to the close of the war, having participated in manf of the important battles of the war, among which we mention the engagements of Raymond, Miss., Jackson Miss., Champion Hills and Seige of Vicksburg. He thy returned home and recruited soldiers for six months, and again joined his regiment which was then at Cairo, Ill., but soon advanced to Georgia, participating in the Kenasaw Mountain engagement, Chatlhoochee River, and Atlanta, on the 22d of July, 1864, where Gen. McPherson was killed. His regiment was then sent back to Nashville, Tenn., where they remained until the close of the war. His war record has been of a character to reflect lasting credit. September, 1865, he came to Alliance and es- tablished his present business, and has in connection with it, engaged extensively in livestock dealing ever since. He married Barbara Weaver, of Osnaburg Tp., March 28, 1858, and there were born to them two children—Amelia and Charles. SAMUEL SHAFFER, deceased; was born in eastern Pennsylvania, in 1803; the second child of a family of thirteen children born to William Shaffer. William Shaffer came to Ohio with his family in 1814, and located in Washington Tp., Stark Co., where he entered considerable land. His numerous family of children all lived to maturity, and he and his wife remained in the same place until their demise, which occurred many years ago. Their sons all settled in Ohio, but some of their daughters removed to the west with their families. Samuel married Mary Barger, Sept. 20, 1825. She was daughter of Christian Barger, a minister of the United Brethren Church, who came with his family from Pennsylvania early in the spring of 1825, and settled at Harrisburg, Stark Co. He labored in the good cause for about three years in the pioneer settlements, when the Master called him from earthly scenes. Mr. and Mrs. Shaffer pursued their farming vocation about two and a half miles southwest of Mt. Union, until by rheumatism he was disabled in one leg, being then less able to indulge in active work of the farm, and still retaining his usual energy, he was determined to do something; so he opened a grocery at his residence, which he conducted for about three years. In 1841 he moved to Freedom—now Alliance—and opened the second store ever in this place. He was early identified with the United Brethren Church, of which he was Trustee for many years, but subsequently uni- ted himself with the M. E. Church, which denomination granted him a license to preach, but being of a reserved and retiring turn of mind, he never entered on ministerial duties. He was a man of good business ability, and did much for the general welfare and development of Alliance. In partnership with his son Jacob, he built the provision warehouse now owned by Jacob Lower, and conducted business there several years. He was chosen Township Trustee, which office he held for many years. Mr. anti Mrs. Shaffer were parents of nine children, eight of whom lived to 744 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: maturity, viz:—Jacob, Henry, Samuel (was a conductor on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., on which he sustained fatal injuries at Massillon,) Isaac, Sarah, Susan, Sophia and Lucinda. Mr. Shaffer died Feb. 7, 1877. Mrs. Shaffer is left in very comfortable circumstances, and is remarkably hale for one of her age, and especially for one who has cared for so large a family, and borne the burthen and withstood the trials of pioneer life. REUBEN SHIDLER, proprietor of livery stable; Alliance; was born in Paris Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, July 3, 1837. His father David, and his mother, Lydia (Fryfogle) Shidler, were both natives of Pennsylvania, and removed to Ohio when young. The Shidler family were among the early settlers of Paris Tp. Our subject is the fourth of a family of nine children, six sons and three daughters. His boyhood was spent on the farm, but when about 14 years of age, his father removed his family to Homeworth, and there engaged in the steam saw-mill business, remaining until their demise. Young Shidler engaged in the lumber trade, which he continued for a time; when he purchased a farm and devoted himself to the care of it for about three years, but on the beginning of the oil excitement in Pennsylvania, he repaired thither, but returned in a short time and sold his farm, and engaged in the hotel business at Homeworth for three years. In April, 1870, he came to Alliance, intent on establishing a dray-line, which he concludgd, on his arrival, would not be a paying arrangement. He leased a small stable, and in partnership with Albert Reed, turned his attention to the livery business. Soon thereafter he purchased a lot and erected his present stables. The partnership relation of the firm was dissolved by Mr. Shidler purchasing the interest of Mr. Reed in the stable in March, 1881. He married Hattie King, of Columbiana Co., in 1858. Their only child is William W., now with Mr. Sefert. SAMUEL SHIMP, freight and ticket agent of P., Ft. W. & C. R. R.; Alliance; was born in Franklin Co., Penn., Nov. 21, 1828; the second child and oldest son born to Samuel and Catharine (Stouffer) Shimp, who were also natives of Pennsylvania. his father was a carpenter by trade, but subsequently turned his attention to farming, to which life our subject was brought up. When about 19 years of age, he began to learn the carpenter's trade, and continued in that business about eight years. In February, 1851, he accepted a clerkship in a dry goods store, and followed that vocation for various employers for a period of six years. In 1862 he entered into the employ of the Pittsburg, Ft. Wayne & Chicago R. R. Co., at Alliance, and in November, 1863, was appointed freight and ticket agent of the Company at this station, and has remained here ever since. He married Sarah Ann Greenawalt, Nov. 1, 1850, of Montgomery Co., Penn. They have three children living, viz.--S. Edgar, Zoe F., and Carrie B. During these years of service, where there is a great deal of responsibility, Mr. Shimp has invariably been equal to the task and is kind and sociable under all circumstances; at all times willing and prompt to oblige and accommodate the patrons of the railroad, or any who may call on him in any capacity. With business reputation above suspicion, he holds the friendship and universal indorsement of the business men of Alliance. GEORGE G. SMITH, physician and surgeon; Alliance; was born in Trumbull Co., Ohio, Jan. 31, 1837. His parents were Philander and Martha (Freer) Smith, of New York, who removed to Ohio about 1833, and settled in Trumbull Co. They reared eleven children. Mr. Smith was by occupation a mill-wright. After a common-school education, the Doctor set out in life for himself. He came to Alliance when a mere youth and entered into the employ of Drs. Wilson & Armstrong, in the capacity of drug-clerk. He became interested in the study of medicine and while clerking, spent his leisure hours in study, consequently his employers became at the same time his preceptors. He was in very limited circumstances, as he was depending entirely on the resources of his own labor, to furnish means of support and education; in consequence of which the completion of the medical course was somewhat retarded. He accepted a clerkship in a drug store in Janesville, Wis., where he remained one winter; thence to Cincinnati, where he held a similar position, and while there attended a course of lectures in the Ohio Medical College. In 1859 he removed to Michigan, and began the practice of medicine CITY OF ALLIANCE - 745 in partnership with Dr. James A. Leasia. He enlisted in the late civil war in August, 1861, in Co. K, 9th Mich. V. I. At the organization of the regiment, he was chosen sergeant and arose steadily to distinction in the service. His regiment was ordered to Kentucky, and as soon as they arrived he was detailed as hospital steward at West Point, Ky., where he remained about two months, when he was removed to Elizabethtown and occupied the same position at the post hospital. Immediately after the battle of Pittsburgh Landing, he was ordered to Nashville, and assigned to duty in Hospital No. 5. While there he attended a course of lectures at the medical department of the University of Tennessee, and graduated in the winter of 1862-63. In April, 1863, he was appointed assistant surgeon of his old regiment. In July of 1864 he was again detailed from his regiment, this time as surgeon of the 19th U. S. I., throughout the Atlantic campaign, and the following October, he received his commission as surgeon of his old regiment, to which he returned in December, 1864, to the mutual satisfaction of himself and his old associates, as his congeniality during his term as assistant surgeon, had made him a favorite, and many warm friends. When mustered out of the service in 180, he returned to Ohio, opened an office in Newtown Falls, Trumbull Co., and resumed the practice of his profession, and remained three years. He attended a course of lectures in the Cleveland Medical College in the winter of 1867 and 1868, and graduated in the spring of the latter year, receiving the ad eundem degree. In October of the same year he came to Alliance, where he has practiced ever since, and enjoys an ever increasing patronage. He married Kate G. Colestock, daughter of Daniel Colestock, of Columbiana Co. They had two children, both deceased. He is a member of the Stark .County Medical Society, and a member of the Masonic Fraternity. He was appointed U. S. Examining Surgeon for this county. GEORGE W. SOURBECK, restaurant keeper; Alliance; was born in Bridgeport, Cumberland Co., Penn., Feb. 26,1837. He is the oldest son of John Sourbeck, by his second wife (Sarah A. Collier). The subject of these notes was only 7 years old at the time his father was drowned (which event is noted in the sketch of Daniel Sourbeck), therefore he was early in life necessitated to do for himself, and began his career as driver on the canal from Harrisburg to Nanticoke and Wilkesbarre. This he followed one season, when he went to Mechanicsburg and apprenticed himself to the boot and shoe trade, and remained there six years. In 1855 he came to Alliance, and was engaged in his brother's dining hall at the railroad depot, for about one and a half years. He went to Youngstown and engaged at his trade for a short time, when he accepted a clerkship in Union Hotel, where he remained two years. He purchased the passenger dining-rooms on Liberty street, Pittsburg, which he conducted about a year, sold out and returned to Youngstown, Ohio, and Jan. 3,1861, he married Mary A. Wilson. They moved to Allegheny City, Penn., where he began to "run" on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., and was soon promoted to a conductorship on the road, which position he retained seven years, when he was appointed Night-train Dispatcher at the outer depot for one year, and then returned to his position as conductor, and "ran " one year when he resigned to engage in the hotel business in Alliance, having been running the Exchange Hotel about ten months, when, on May 22,1871, it burned. He then opened the restaurant close to the depot, which he has conducted ever since with much success. They have five children, viz.—Alva L., Emma S., Harry P., George W., Jr., and Lillie C. DANIEL SOURBECK, hotel-keeper; Alliance; was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., May 10,1812. His parents were John and Lydia (Hemphill) Sourbeck, both natives of Pennsylvania. His father was a hotel-keeper for five years at Harrisburg, and twenty years at Bridgeport, Penn. He was drowned while fishing in the Susquehanna near Dauphin, in 1839. Of eight children our subject is the oldest son. He received his education at the common schools, and in his youth was variously employed; learning the carpenter's trade and in his father's hotel, and followed the former occupation several years. In the fall of 1834 he came to New Brighton, Penn., with William Laborn, a well-known bridge-builder, and was in his employ about a year, assisting him to build the bridge across the 746 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Big Beaver River at New Brighton. During the two succeeding years he was completing work on the Erie Canal, which was contracted by himself and two others under the firm name of Phillips, Foreman & Sourbeck. He then returned to New Brighton, and was proprietor of the Sourbeck House of that town from 1837 to 1852. In May of the latter year he removed to Alliance, Ohio, where he has since remained engaged in the hotel business. He is still proprietor of the Sourbeck House at New Brighton, which is run by his step-grandson, Daniel Robertson. In December, 1835, he married the widow of Edward Downey, ne6 Eliza Jack. He was connected with the Ohio militia, having been a lieutenant in the Alliance Light Guard, and while in Pennsylvania he was Captain of a cavalry company known as Beaver Co. Light Horse. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and I. O. O. F. for many years. On the evening of Dec. 8, 1856, a collision occurred in which a train on the Cleveland & Pittsburg R. R., ran into a train on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., at the crossing close to his house, one of the cars being thrown into the rotunda of his hotel. Nine persons were killed outright, and several severelt wounded. On Aug. 29, 1860, he had a narrow escape from death, in an accident which occurred on the Camden & Amboy (New Jersey) R. R., in which thirty-two persons lost their lives. In the car which Mr. Sourbeck was in twenty-two were killed. The train was running backward at a rapid rate of speed, and was thrown from the track by a team and carriage which was crossing the road. Being between high embankments the cars were smashed into kindling-wood, and the passengers bruised beyond recognition. He had the scalp torn from the top of his head and his skull fractured, which disabled him for four months. He has been in the hotel business for forty-four years, and is widely and favorably known thorughout the United States, and part of the old country as one of the old " land-marks," and proprietor of one of the best railroad hotels in this country, in which many dignitaries of the United States, Indian Chiefs, Prince of Wales, and other potentates have been guests. It is doubtful if any other railroad hotel proprietor in the United States has so long held his position amid the various changes of railroad corporations. He truly is a self-made man, of fine personal appearance, good business qualifications, independent and outspoken in everything, affable, courteous and possessing a high sense of honor.. AMOS C. SILVER, boot and shoe merchant; Alliance; was born in Salem Tp., Columbiana Co., Ohio, Sept. 3, 1838. He is the eldest of a family of three children born to James and Nancy (Tharp) Silver. Amos C. received a liberal education at New Lisbon Union School and Damascus Academy. When about 20 years of age he taught school several winters, and was employed on the farm the rest of the year. In 1861 he entered the United States' Service, building and repairing telegraph lines during the war. He continued in this business until September, 1863, when he accidently cut his foot with an ax, while at work at Culpepper Court House. The wound so far disabled him as to confine him to the hospital, three months, at Washington, D. C. He obtained his discharge, and returned home; and in 1864 he was employed on the telegraph lines along the P., Ft. W. & C., and the C. & P. R. R.s, of which he has had the care until 1878. At the latter date, he engaged in the boot and shoe trade in Alliance. Jan. 11, 1866, he married Sarah A. Kelty. They have one child—Charles. Mrs. Silver was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, but when quite young her parents removed to Bedford, Mahoning Co. A brother of Mr. Silver, William H., was also in the service in the late war; he enlisted in the 103d O. V. I. in 1862, and served until at the battle of Resaca, Ga., May 14, 1864, he received a gun-shot wound in the hip. He was taken to the hospital at Chattanooga, where he died on June 3, following. JOHN M. STILLWELL, hoot and shoe merchant; Alliance; was born in Troy, Geauga Co., Ohio, Oct. 15, 1845. His parents were Kortenus and Wait B. (Stafford) Stillwell. His father was formerly of New Jersey and his mother of New York. They came to Ohio about 1837, and located in Geauga Co. John M. is the youngest of their six children, and until he was :18 years old, his time was spent on the farm. At that age he began to learn the machinist's trade at Chagrin Falls, and worked at that business there and at Alliance about eight years. About four years he sold CITY OF ALLIANCE - 747 sewing machines, and the subsequent four years, he farmed in Geauga Co. In the spring of 1880, he established himself in the boot and shoe trade in Alliance, which he now conducts. Oct. 17, 1867, he married Madura Niece. She is daughter of J. B. Niece, of Chagrin Falls. They have one child—Mark. Mr. Stillwell is now serving as a member of Alliance Town Council, and is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, and the I. O. O. F. JOHN H. TRESSEL, physician and surgeon ; Alliance ; was born near Malvern, Carroll Co., Ohio, March 17, 1833. He is the third son of a family of ten children born to Matthias and Catharine (Harsh) Tressel, both natives of Washington Co., Pa., and moved to Carroll Co., Ohio, about 1823. His father was a farmer and a man of fine culture, a warm friend to the cause of education, and for many years held influential positions on hoards of education in his community. When he settled in Ohio he was in moderate circumstances, but by industry he accumulated a competency, and became the owner of 400 acres of improved land. He was a member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, in which faith he died in 1848, at the age of 54 years. Doctor Tressel's early manhood was spent in attending school and working on the farm. In 1852 he began to read medicine with Dr. S. F. Rukenbrod, of Malvern. During the yellow fever and cholera epidemic in 1856, he visited the plague-infected districts of the South and Cuba. With a view to advancing his knowledge in the science of medicine, be visited Paris, France, with the intention of taking a course in the best Medical Colleges in Europe ; but before his design in that direction was fully consummated he was summoned home by cablegram, in consequence of what was believed to be a fatal illness of his mother. While abroad he visited Africa, where he remained a short time, Previous to his emigration to France he had almost completed the regular course of study at Mt. Union College ; on his return he graduated therefrom in June, 1860 ; and the two succeeding years he was Principal of the Academy in Malvern. In the summer of 1861 his leg was broken in five places by a horse falling upon him. In the winter of 1861-62 he attended lectures in the Cleveland Medical College, and the following summer began the practice of medicine in Malvern. The succeeding winter he attended lectures in the same institution, graduated in the spring of 1863, and resumed his practice at Malvern, where he was engaged for ten years. During the late war he did good service as surgeon, being employed in times of special emergency in detached service, not being able, on account of ill-health, to be on continuous duty. In 1873 he sold out, with the intention of removing to the South. Through the advice of friends he changed his purpose, and came to Alliance, where he has a steadily increasing practice. In the spring of 1876 he was appointed surgeon for the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago and the Cleveland & Pittsburgh R. R.s, which position he still holds. When residing in Malvern he was Secretary and one of the Censors of Carroll Co. Medical Society, and is now one of the Censors of Stark Co. Medical Society, and a member of Northeastern Ohio Medical Association, also of the American Medical Association. He has contributed to various medical journals, and has prepared a series of articles on the causes and variations of diseases and on therapeutics. In November, 1876, he lost almost all his effects by fire, including his instruments, medical and general library. He has acquired a fine reputation as a surgeon, and has performed a number of very delicate operations, among which may be mentioned the resection of the shoulder-joint and of the lower limbs, the removal of a tumor from the brain of an insane patient by trephining ; the patient had been insane for a period of ten years, and, on removal of the tumor, immediately gave evidence of remembering facts which were identical in time with the first symptoms of his insanity ; he became of sound mind and is now a well-to-do farmer, and from the throat of another he extracted a tumor, which was pronounced by some leading surgeons impossible without sacrificing life. June 19, 1862, he married Susannah T., daughter of Thomas Hawkins, of Berlin, Ma-honing Co. They have three children—Lora H., Gertrude H. and John K. Mrs. Tressel's pencil, crayon and oil work would do credit to the professional artist. The doctor is a member of the fraternity of Freemasons, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, K. of P., and other secret societies. 748 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: JOHN T. WEYBRECHT, lumber dealer and contractor; Alliance; was born in France Jan. 27, 1829. His parents' names were John and Hannah Weybrecht, also natives of France. In youth Mr. Weybrecht learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1854 emigrated to the United States, and after a short residence in Pennsylvania he removed to Stark Co., Ohio, and continued at his trade. He soon began to take building contracts, which proved a success; and in 1856 opened a lumber yard on a small scale, and was in this direction greeted with success; and in 1865 he established a planing-mill, thereby being able to furnish the material for his ever increasing building-trade in any necessary form or quantity. In 1878 he built his present brick planing-mill, and continues to do an annual business of about $30,000 in value, many of the best buildings in Alliance being the result of his architectural ability. Among the heaviest contracts secured and carried out by him, were the Union School building, at a cost of $22,000, and the Alliance College, at a cost of $80,000, both of which are imposing structures. He married Margaret Honacker in January, 1856; she was the daughter of Christopher Honacker, of Alliance, formerly of Wurtemburg, Germany, who emigrated to this country in 1832. They have six children—Mary (now Mrs. Leroy L. Lamborn), B. F., Anna, Jennie, Charlie and Andrew. He is a member of the-Independent Order of Odd Felows, and of the Knights of Honor, but has repeatedly refused to accept any public office. Mr. Weybrecht carne to this place in limited financial circumstances, but through strict attention to business, and economy, he has established himself in a desirable and lucrative position. WILLIAM H. WHITACRE, merchant and railroad conductor; Alliance; was born in New Lisbon, Columbiana Co., Ohio, June 8, 18,39; son of James and Julia (Frazier) Whitacre. He was a native of Ohio, and she of Pennsylvania, but came to this State when quite young. Mr. Whitacre is the third of a family of ten children. His early manhood was spent on the farm, but when 20 years of age he obtained a position on the Cleveland & Pittsburg Railroad, in the capacity of brakesman, and in 1863, about one year later, he was promoted to the position of conductor of the " local," which he retained until 1867, when he was transferred to the passenger department as conductor, where he has continued ever since. In 1861 he entered into a partnership with Isaac Miller in the boot and shoe business, and has been engaged in that line of trade ever since. While his position on the railroad renders it impossible to devote all his time to the store, he keeps a general supervision of the business, and has always at his leisure hours in the evening kept the books of the concern, and is accredited with being one of the most active business men of Alliance. He married Jennie Wilson, of Uniontown, Penn., March 20, 1860. Of their six children only one survives, viz:—Edward J. Mr. Whitacre is prominently connected with the M. E. Church, a member of the I. 0. 0. F., and also of the Masonic fraternity. Since Mr. Miller severed his business relations with Mr. Whitacre, Price W. Beardsley has purchased an interest in the establishment, and conducts the business, the firm name having been Whitacre & Beardsley since 1879. Mr. Beardsley was born in Geauga Co., Ohio, April 13, 1839. His father, Lyman Beardsley, came from Bennington, Vt., about 1830. His mother, whose maiden name was Fannie Presley, was a native of Ohio. They reared three children, of whom our subject is the eldest. When about, 18 years of age he came to Alliance, and began to learn the boot and shoe trade. In 1864 he enlisted in the 162d 0. N. G. for three months' service. He married Mary A. Stanley, and they have three children—T. G., Alvah P., and Carrie S. He is a member of I. 0. 0. F. ALFRED WRIGHT, hardware merchant, of the firm of Wright & Pennock; Alliance; was born in Burlington Co., New Jersey, July 28, 1819; the son of John Elizabeth (Bullock) Wright, both of whom were natives of New Jersey, and of English descent. One Joshua Wright, a Quaker, of whom our subject is a lienal descendant, emigrated from England in 1669, and settled in what is now Burlington Co., N. J.; there he made a purchase of a large tract of land, for which he paid King Charles II, and then he re-purchased his claim from the Indians. The descendants of this pioneer became numerous LEXINGTON TOWNSHIP - 749 in Burlington Co., and principally devoted themselves to stock-raising and agricultural pursuits. John Wright was a prominent farmer and influential citizen in his community; he reared a family of four children, viz:—Abner, Charles, Samuel B., and Alfred; they received as liberal an education as the schools of that day afforded. Alfred got his education principally in private schools and private study, until about 17 years of age, when he attended school in Philadelphia. When 18 years old he began teaching in Philadelphia, where he continued two years; at the expiration of that time he engagtd in the hardware business, and in 1842 came to Salem, Ohio, where he opened the first hardware store in that town, and soon afterwards added to his hardware business a stock of drugs, which was the most extensive establishment of the kind in northeastern Ohio. Mr. Wright's wonderful success is principally due to his-practical business ideas, amounting almost to a science. Through the medium of the journals of northeastern Ohio, he presented his business properly to the public, and was the first merchant in Salem to think of advertising in newspapers, other than those of his own town. With the public demand he was familiar, and was ever in readiness to meet it. In 1862 was formed the partnership of Wright & Pennock to do business in Alliance; but Mr. Wright conducted his extensive hardware and drug trade at Salem until 1865, when in consequence of ill health he sold out that establishment, also his interest in a fruit farm, in southern Illinois, and an interest in a farm, steam saw-mill and lumber trade in Indiana. In politics he has always affiliated with the Republican party, but even when political prejudice was at its zenith during the late war, he never failed of receiving the patronage of the most radical opponents; for, while firm in his views on political questions, he avoided unnecessary parade of conflicting sentiments. In January, 1866, when he had retired from business, the Salem Republican and Buckeye State, in appropriate terms, deplored the loss, or withdrawal from active life of one of their most public-spirited and enterprising citizens. A partnership was formed between himself and Samuel Chessman, which continued fourteen years. July 3, 1845, Mr. Wright married Amelia R. Middleton, of Philadelphia. She died in 1865, leaving four children, viz.: Edgar A., of Davenport, Iowa; Ella V., Ida M. and Arthur. He removed from Salem to Alliance in 1874, and was elected president of the Alliance and Lake Erie R. R. four years ago, which office he has now resigned, but still remains a member of the board of directors. LEXINGTON TOWNSHIP THEODORE ARMSTRONG, A. M., professor of penmanship, and assistant superintendent of the commercial department of Mt. Union college, Mt. Union; was born June 12, 1848, in North Benton, Ohio. He is the oldest of a family of ten children born to Dr. Robert and Amy B. (Woodruff) Armstrong. Its grandfather Armstrong, came to Ohio, and was one of the first pioneers of Mahoning Co., as were the Woodruffs also, who entered their land of the government. When moving from New Jersey to Ohio, their team being heavily loaded with their effects, the grandmother Mrs. Woodruff, walked on foot the entire distance. Dr. Robert Armstrong was a prominent physician, and had a very extensive and lucrative practice in Mahoning Co., and vicinity. The subject of this sketch received a liberal common school course, and in the fall of 1865, he entered Mt. Union College, and was appointed tutor of a class in 1868, in the meantime pursuing his own studies; but being of frail constitution, he was compelled to give up his college work for a short time. Upon finding his health recruited by outdoor exercise, he returned and graduated in the scientific course in Mt. Union in 1870, and in 1871 graduated in the classics. He