(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 701 of Gnadenhutten, Ohio; Mrs. Gertrude Johansen, of Columbus, Ohio; and Charles E. Charles E. Mills attended the public schools of Gnadenhutten until sixteen years of age, when he engaged in railroad work for one year, during which time he saved enough money to put him through a normal course. He taught school for two years in his home county, after which he worked one year in a rolling mill in Canton. He entered Northern Ohio University, at Ada, in which he took the philosophical and law courses and was graduated, with the degree of Bachelor of Law in 1915. On January 2, 1916, he was admitted to the bar, and entered upon the practice of his profession in Carrollton, where he remained until 1918. He then entered the military service of his country and went into training at Camp Sherman, at Chillicothe. In June of that year he was sent to France with the Eighty-third Division, and in September he was transferred to the Thirty-third (Illinois) Division. He took an active part in front-line fighting, going "over the top" twice, in the Meuse-Argonne offensive. On October 22d the Thirty-third Division was sent to the Metz front and early on the morning of the signing of the Armistice the troops made a substantial advance, straightening out the front line preparatory to a general attack which was planned for the following day. His command became a part of the Army of Occupation and he remained in Luxemburg, Germany, during the ensuing winter. He sailed for home on May 10, 1919, and was honorably discharged at Camp Sherman on May 29th. He spent the ensuing summer recuperating on the home farm, and in October, 1919, opened a law office in Akron in partnership with R. E. Ormsby, with whom he was associated until 1926, when the partnership was dissolved, since which time Mr. Mills has practiced alone. He is a close and constant student of his profession, in the practice of which he is evincing learning, determination and resourcefulness which are gaining for him a wide reputation as a sound and safe practitioner. On April 6, 1920, in Carrollton, Ohio, Mr. Mills was united in marriage to Miss Florence Butler, a daughter of Joseph C. and Cora Butler. The former is engaged in the undertaking business. Mr. Mills is a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, the Tuscarawas Country Club, the Turners Society, the Akron Bar Association, the Summit County Bar Association, the Ohio State Bar Association. In his political views he is a stanch republican and is interested in everything affecting the welfare 702 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY and prosperity of his city and county. Because of his professional ability, his sterling character and his cordial and friendly manner, he well merits the high esteem in which he is uniformly held by his fellowmen. RICHARD BECK The life story of Richard Beck, horticulturist, nurseryman and landscape architect of Fairlawn, Summit county, is one to encourage and inspire all who must depend upon their own efforts for whatever success they may enjoy. Coming to the United States alone and friendless when a youth of fifteen years, he has worked his way steadily upward to a position among the prosperous and highly esteemed citizens of the community in which he makes his home. Mr. Beck was born near Speyer on the Rhine, in Germany, February 3, 1885, his parents being John and Elizabeth (Zurker) Beck, who died when he was still but a child. His education was acquired in grammar and high schools of his native land and already in his boyhood he began acquainting himself with horticultural pursuits and gardening. It was in 1900 that he came alone to this country, landing on American shores without a knowledge of English and without friends or relatives to advise or assist him. He made his way direct to Akron, Ohio, where he worked at odd jobs for a livelihood and also attended night school, while subsequently he spent two years as a student in the Baldwin-Wallace College at Berea, this state. Industry and thrift have characterized him from the beginning of his career and he managed to save a part of his meager earnings. In 1907 he purchased the stock and business of the Lucius Rose nursery, which had been established in 1863, and in 1916 he acquired the stock and business of the R. Hess nursery of North Hill, Akron. In 1914 Mr. Beck had purchased a valuable tract of land comprising twelve acres in Fairlawn, Ohio, just over the Akron city line, which he still owns. In the year 1924 he bought a tract embracing two hundred and forty acres, ninety acres of which constitutes his home place on the Akron-Medina road in Summit county, while the remaining one hundred and fifty acres lies along the same road in Medina county. Mr. Beck has erected a residence, beautiful in its simplicity, on his ninety-acre home property, some of which is utilized for nursery purposes. Thus AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 705 the lad of fifteen who came to a strange country without capital or friends and was confronted by seemingly insurmountable obstacles in his quest for fortune has attained his goal through unflagging effort and undaunted determination. He is an affable, sincere gentleman of such marked force of character and power of personality that one meeting him at once understands how he has accomplished so much. On the 26th of February, 1910, Mr. Beck was united in marriage to Miss Freda Deiss, daughter of Ernest F. and Elizabeth (Selzer) Deiss, old and highly esteemed residents of Akron. In Masonry Mr. Beck has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite, belonging to the following bodies : Adoniram Lodge, F. & A. M.; Washington Chapter, R. A. M.; Akron Council, R. & S. M.; Akron Commandery No. 25, K. T. ; Lake Erie Valley of Cleveland Consistory, S. P. R. S.; Tadmor Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., of which he is a charter member; Yusef Khan Grotto, M. 0. V. P. E. R., of which he is also a charter member, and the Masonic Club. His life is upright and honorable in every relation and the circle of his friends is a very wide one. LOUIS EARL WHARTON, M. D. Dr. Louis Earl Wharton is one of the well known physicians of Akron and possesses those qualities through which success comes as a natural sequence. He was born in Milton township, Ashland county, Ohio, May 7, 1890, and is a son of Grant and Emma (Ohl) Wharton, also natives of this state. The father has a valuable silver fox farm in Ashland county and is regarded as one of the leading breeders of this part of the country. Mr. and Mrs. Wharton are the parents of five children : Howard, who lives in Denver, Colorado; Joseph, of Ashland, Ohio; Mrs. Guy Countryman and Mrs. George Rickle, also residents of Ashland; and Dr. Louis Earl Wharton. The last named attended the public schools of Ashland and an academy at Savannah, Ohio. He received the Bachelor of Arts degree from the Western Reserve University in 1916 and in 1920 was graduated from the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. For six months he was an interne in a hospital at Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and then came to Akron. In the intervening period of eight years he has established a large practice and is 23-VOL. 3 706 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY connected with the staff of the Peoples Hospital. His office is located at No. 794 North Main street. Dr. Wharton was married June 23, 1920, in Philadelphia, to Miss Grace Wagner, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Wagner and a member of a prominent family of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Dr. and Mrs. Wharton have two children : Ann Wesley, who was born in Akron, May 20, 1924, and Earl Wagner, born in this city July 2, 1925. Doctor Wharton is a Mason and belongs to the Masonic and Automobile Clubs. Mrs. Wharton is connected with the City Club and Akron Chapter of the Eastern Star and both are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Dr. Wharton is an expert long distance rifle shot and a hunter of big game. He also enjoys fishing trips and, like all true sportsmen, he deplores the wanton destruction of wild life, strongly advocating the creation of laws for its protection. His public spirit is expressed through his membership in the Chamber of Commerce and his professional relations are with the Akron, Summit County and Ohio State Medical Societies and the American Medical Association. Dr. Wharton is a man of fine character and pleasing personality, and is esteemed and respected by all with whom he has been associated. HERBERT C. TINKER Herbert C. Tinker, an expert electrical engineer, as the promoter and developer of various water and power plants has contributed in large measure to Ohio's advancement. Making Akron his home, his operations have covered different sections and his activities and interests are constantly expanding. He is a native of Smyrna, New York, his birth having there occurred November 22, 1870. His parents, Wright B. and Mary A. (Spencer) Tinker, were also natives of the Empire state, within the borders of which they always resided, the father devoting his life to the occupation of farming. Both have passed away. They had a family of five children : Herbert C.; Clarke A.; Mrs. Ida M. Parker; Mrs. Bertha M. Jones; and Mrs. Bernice M. Mc-Lloyd, who is deceased. In his youthful days Herbert C. Tinker was a pupil in the schools of Smyrna and after leaving high school learned telegraphy on the lines of the Ontario & Western and the New York AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 707 Central railroads. He was employed as a telegraph operator in various parts of New York through a period of eight years, after which he became an employe in the operating department of the United Traction Company. While thus engaged he took a correspondence course in electrical engineering with the International Correspondence Schools of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and after three years of intensive study, pursued while he was earning his living with the United Traction Company, he received the degree of Electrical Engineer in 1897. On the completion of his course he became connected with the Adirondack Electrical Power Corporation at Glens Falls, New York, taking charge of the plant. After remaining there for eleven years he went to Jackson, Michigan, where he took charge of the southern division of the Consumers Power Company, continuing in that capacity until 1916, when he went to Pontiac, Michigan, for the same company as electrical superintendent, remaining there for eighteen months. On the expiration of that period he arrived in Akron to accept the position of superintendent, having charge of the lines with the Northern Ohio Power & Light Company. He was with that corporation until 1921, when he went to Shelby, Ohio, becoming manager of the Valley Light & Power Company, with which he remained for six months. He then returned to Akron and organized the Randolph-Suffield Power Company and has since organized and developed the Doylestown Electric Light & Power Company, the West Farmington Light & Power Company of Trumbull county, Ohio, and the Portage Lake Electric Light Company. All of these properties he promoted, developed and has since sold and he is now developing other power plants in various sections of the state. His expert skill as an electrical engineer, combined with splendid business and executive ability, has brought him to the front in this connection and his activities are far-reaching and beneficial to the state as well as a source of individual profit and progress. On Christmas eve of 1895 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Tinker and Miss Lena M. Terry, of Poland, Herkimer county, New York, a daughter of Joseph Terry. They have two children : Marguerite M., who was born in New York and educated in Battle Creek, Michigan, is the wife of Frank A. Ceckler and now resides in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Clarke W., who was born in the Empire state and makes his home in Akron, was also educated at Battle Creek, Michigan. He married Miss Bernice 708 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Edwards, of Akron, and has one son, Bruce, born March 22, 1927, in Akron. In his fraternal relations Mr. Tinker is a Mason, having become a member of the blue lodge in Troy, New York. He belongs also to the Tuscarawas Country Club and is a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church and he is interested in all those forces which make for progress and improvement in community, state and nation. His own life is an exemplification of a most progressive spirit, for prompted by a laudable ambition he has so directed his efforts as to gain a most creditable place among the capable and successful electrical engineers of Ohio. BERT ALVIN SHRIBER Bert Alvin Shriber, president of the Industrial Mortgage Company of Akron, which he organized in 1921, has long figured prominently in the business and financial circles of the city and for a number of years was also identified with professional interests as a practicing dentist. He was born on the Shriber farm near Doylestown, Wayne county, Ohio, September 8, 1881, a son of George W. and Clara E. (Frase) Shriber. George W. Shriber was born at Orrville, Ohio, November 23, 1855, a son of Emanuel and Elizabeth (Crites) Shriber. Reared in Wayne county, he removed after his marriage to Ashtabula county, and was an active farmer there until the death of his father in 1895, when he returned to the old homestead in Wayne county. In 1902 he removed to Norton township, Summit county. George W. Shriber married Clara E., daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Frase, of Wayne county. In 1910 the family moved into Akron, where George Shriber is now living retired. For some time he was successfully engaged in the real estate business. Mr. and Mrs. George W. Shriber are the parents of a daughter and five sons, as follows: Carrie, who is assistant principal of the Central high school of Akron; Bert A., of this review; Carl, who is extensively engaged in ranching at Howell, Utah, and is president of the local Farm Loan Bank; Neil, who is owner of the business conducted under the name of the Hale Jewelry Company in Akron; Dr. Howard Shriber, a successful physician and surgeon with offices in the Ohio building in Akron; and Glenn, who is staff AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 711 superintendent of the plant of the B. F. Goodrich Company at Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. As a boy Bert A. Shriber attended the country schools of Ashtabula county. In 1901 he graduated as valedictorian from the Marshallville high school in Wayne county, and then spent a year in Wooster University. In 1906 he received the degree of D. D. S. from the Western Reserve University, having graduated in dentistry and receiving the largest number of points in his clinical work given to any student by the institution up to that date. For the following five years he practiced with splendid success at Akron. In 1911 he took the position of manager of the realty department of the Bankers Guarantee Title & Trust Company, and while with that concern was elected president of the Realty Benefit Company. In 1914 Mr. Shriber was one of the organizers and incorporators of the State Savings & Trust Company of Akron, of which he occupied the presidency for a period of eight years or until its consolidation. In 1921 he organized the Industrial Mortgage Company, of which he has since been the executive head, and he is also president of the Shriber-Schroth Company, automobile equipment dealers of Akron, and president of the La Salle Hotel Company of this city. A farsighted, resourceful business man, he has displayed keen sagacity and marked executive ability in the conduct of his interests and his initiative spirit and powers of organization have carried him to the goal of success. He is largely interested in Akron real estate. On the 3d of July, 1907, Mr. Shriber was united in marriage to Miss Blanche Woods, daughter of Dr. A. T. Woods, of Loyal Oak, Ohio. They are the parents of three children, namely: Kenneth Woods, born at Akron in 1908, is a graduate of the West high school and is now a student in the Ohio State University, class of 1930; Portia Arlene, who was born at Akron in 1911, attends the West high school; and George Austin, born at Akron in 1916, is a pupil in the Portage Path school. The family resides at 1153 Sunset Drive in one of Akron's beautiful homes. In politics Mr. Shriber is a stanch republican. He uses his position and his individual influence for the furtherance of every enterprise affecting the local welfare of this county, and is a member of the Summit County Improvement Association. He also belongs to the Akron Chamber of Commerce, of which he has been a director for one term, the Akron Automobile Club and the Akron City Club. In fraternal circles he is known as a Knight Templar Mason who has likewise attained the thirty-second degree of the 712 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Scottish Rite and has crossed the sands of the desert with the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He has membership in the Masonic Club and also takes a helpful part in the work of the Reform church, to which he belongs. He has achieved noteworthy success by honorable means, being a man of stering integrity, and his marked social qualities have gained for him a large number of warm and loyal friends. CHARLES J. MAIER The name of Charles J. Maier is well known to Akron's motorists, with whom his commercial activities have brought him in close contact, and a large oil business is the visible result of his powers of organization and administration. He was born July 31, 1887, in Ashland, Pennsylvania, and is a son of Jacob H. and Katherine (Dailey) Maier. His parents still reside in that state, and the father has long been connected with coal mining operations. In their family were five children, but Stella, the fourth in order of birth, is deceased. The others are Albert, Jennie and Charles J. Maier and Mrs. Thomas Gorman. In the acquirement of an education Charles J. Maier attended a parochial school of Ashland and afterward studied telegraphy, becoming an expert operator. As a telegrapher and ticket agent he was employed in succession by the Philadelphia & Reading, the Pennsylvania and the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad companies and was thus engaged for about eight years. Afterward he was a salesman for a pipe organ company, filling the position for two and a half years, and then resumed the occupation of a telegrapher. At the end of eighteen months he joined the sales force of a Pennsylvania oil firm and paid a visit to Akron in 1912. Being favorably impressed, he decided to locate here and became connected with the Factory Oil Company, with which he spent about seven years. In 1919 Mr. Maier started a business of his own, forming the White Star Oil Company, and was associated in the venture with H. J. Burnett. The business was conducted under that name until 1923, when the present style of the Brite Star Oil Company was adopted, and Mr. Maier has since been president. In guiding the destiny of the firm he brings to bear broad experience as well as executive force and keen powers of discernment and has built up one of the largest organizations of the kind in this AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 713 part of the state. The firm maintains a high standard of service and now owns and operates twelve oil and gasoline stations in Akron, one in Kenmore and one in Cuyahoga Falls. In addition Mr. Maier is president of the Tri-County Petroleum Company, whose affairs are also in a prosperous condition. Mr. Maier was married September 3, 1914, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, to Miss Florence E. Montz, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Montz and a member of a well known family of Sharon, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Maier have become the parents of a son, Charles Giles, who was born in Akron, April 29, 1920. Mr. Maier adheres to the Roman Catholic faith and holds the fourth degree in the Knights of Columbus. He is also identified with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and acts as scout master of the local troop of Boy Scouts of America, working earnestly and effectively to advance the interests of that organization. In all matters of citizenship Mr. Maier is loyal and public-spirited, and the respect accorded him is well deserved, for his life has been upright and useful. Mr. Maier's residence is at 1270 Delia avenue. EMANUEL H. WIENER Although of foreign nationality, Emanuel H. Wiener is thoroughly American in spirit and interests, for much of his life has been spent in this country, and his well developed powers and cacapity for sustained effort have made him a conspicuous figure in commercial circles of Akron. A native of Russia, he was born March 17, 1886, and is a son of Simon and Fannie Wiener. His parents remained in Russian Poland until 1901, when they came to the United States and established their home in Akron, Ohio. The father has become one of the well known merchants of the city but the mother passed away in 1912. They had a family of ten children, seven of whom survive : Joseph, Morris, Benjamin, Charles, Abraham, J. Harry, and Emanuel H. The last named was educated in his native land and at the age of fifteen came to America with his parents. He studied English in the public schools of Akron and secured a position in a commission house, where he was employed for several years, gaining a clear insight into the produce business. During that time he saved a certain percentage of his salary and when the opportunity 114 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY offered he entered the field independently. He prospered from the start and is now regarded as the leading produce merchant of the city. His business is located on the corner of South Forge and Hill streets and conducted under the style of the E. H. Weiner Company, of which he is president. This is a large wholesale concern and a well organized, efficiently operated institution which reflects the progressive spirit and high standards of its owner. Mr. Wiener was married January 6, 1910, in Akron, to Miss Esther H. Hirsh, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Hirsh and a member of one of the prominent families of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Wiener have four children : Lenore Ruth, who was born in 1912 and is attending high school; Francis Betty, who was born in 1914 and is also pursuing her high school studies; Joan Marie, who was born in 1918 and is attending grammar school; and Thomas Hirsh, who was born in 1920 and is a pupil in the King school. Mr. Wiener is a member of the National Produce change and the Akron Chamber of Commerce. Along: social lines he is connected with the Montrose Country Club, the Automobile Club and the B. P. O. E. Club. He loyally supports all projects for Akron's growth and betterment but has never aspired to public office owing to the pressure of his business affairs. In winning success he has stimulated the pulse of trade in the Rubber city and the strength that he manifests in business affairs has its root in those qualities which never fail to inspire confidence and command respect. ANDREW J. FLEITER Industrial affairs of importance claim the attention and profit by the enterprising spirit and broad experience of Andrew J. Fleiter, an outstanding figure in business circles of Akron. Mr. Fleiter was born in Germany, August 6, 1882. His father, John Fleiter, who was a dealer in cattle, flied when Andrew was a child. Later, in the fall of 1891, the mother, Mrs. Margaret (Rittenberger) Fleiter, brought her family to the. United States and established her home in Akron, residing here until her death in 1917. Two sons, Joseph and Andrew J., and one daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Ruthenberg, survive, all, living in Akron. Andrew J. Fleiter obtained his early instruction in Germany and attended the public schools of Akron. His studies were continued in the Hammel Business University, and he also com- AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 717 pleted a mechanical engineering course with the International Correspondence Schools of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Meanwhile he had obtained work in the plant of the Bridgewater Machine Company of Akron and after serving his apprenticeship he entered the service of the Star Drill Company of this city, with which he spent a year. He was next in the employ of the Wellman, Seaver & Morgan Company, where he spent two years on work for the Government. After leaving the employ of this company and to further broaden his knowledge of general machine shop work and conditions, he took a trip through the western part of the country, working in various types of machine shops, which gave him a very diversified knowledge of machine shop operations and working conditions throughout the country. Then he became a machinist in the plant of the Akron Selle Company, working on water wheel governors. To still further broaden his experience he went with the Taplin & Rice Company, later the Taplin, Rice & Clerkin Company, for two years and then became superintendent for the Akron Rubber Mold & Machine Company. For ten years he filled that responsible position, thoroughly demonstrating his worth to the firm, and in 1918 he organized the Akron Standard Mold Company, of which he is now vice president and general manager. The plant was started with a small capital and work was furnished to twelve men. Today this is one of the largest industries of the kind in Akron and carries the names of 250 employes on its payrolls. The business of the Akron Standard Mold Company is about a million dollars annually, and the prestige enjoyed by the corporation is to no small extent attributable to the able management and tireless efforts of Mr. Fleiter, who closely supervises every detail of the work. He is an expert mechanic and knows how to direct the labors of those who serve him. In 1920, seeing the advantages in having a direct source of supply for castings, Mr. Fleiter organized the Barberton Foundry Company, of which he also is vice president and general manager. This business was started on a modest scale and has developed into a thriving industry with a force of more than sixty employes. Mr. Fleiter was married, May 18, 1905, to Miss Emma Speaker, and both are popular in social circles of Akron. Mr. Fleiter is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Silver Lake Country Club and the Automobile and City Clubs of Akron, while his religious views are in harmony with the doc- 718 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY trines of the Roman Catholic church, of which he is a faithful communicant. By the path of opportunity open to all he has achieved success and is accorded the respect which the world ever yields to the upright, self-made man. Mr. Fleiter's city residence is at 894 West Exchange street, and his summer home is on East Reservoir. CLARENCE ELTON MANKIN Clarence Elton Mankin, president of the Mankin-Ferris Company, distributors of the Studebaker and Erskine line of motor .cars in the Akron territory, is one of the well known and successful representatives of the automobile trade in this city. Mr. Mankin's entire business career has been in connection with the Studebaker interests and involves wide experience in various branches of the automobile industry. His birth occurred in Washingtonville, Columbiana county, Ohio, October 20, 1889, his -parents being George and Hattie (Elton) Mankin, who were also natives of Columbiana county. The father has always resided in Ohio and has devoted his life to carriage manufacturing. The mother, however, has passed away. In their family were three children : Clarence E. ; Harley, now living in Cleveland ; and Mrs. J. Lee Anderton, of Wadsworth, Ohio. Clarence E. Mankin was quite young when the family moved to Minerva, Ohio, where he resided until his tenth year, when his parents established their home at Wadsworth. In the latter city he was graduated from high school in 1908. While attending school he worked in his spare hours. His mother counseled him to "work and save" and provide for his future. She encouraged him to strive for a college education, and he gives her affectionate credit for having started him on the right path. At that time a student could take a combination course in Buchtel College and Case School of Applied Science. He took both courses and was graduated in 1913 with the Bachelor of Science degree from Buchtel and the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Case. It was at that period that the motor car was coming into prominence and he believed that there was a great future before it. Accordingly he went to Detroit, Michigan, and obtained a situation in the 'Studebaker plant. After two years he was transferred to New York as service manager and remained in the eastern metropolis for a year. He was then recalled to AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 719 Detroit to become assistant to the general service manager and in 1918 was sent to Akron, where he has since been engaged in the sale of Studebaker cars. In November, 1921, he organized the Mankin-Ferris Company and has since been its executive head. This company owns and occupies at 249 West Market street, one of the finest sales and service plants in this section of the country, and during the ten years and more that Mr. Mankin has been at the head of its operations, he has established the business on a high standard, ranking it with the most ably managed automobile agencies in Akron. On Christmas day of 1915 Mr. Mankin was married to Miss Helen Steel, of Wadsworth, Ohio, a daughter of C. W. Steel, who belonged to a prominent family there. They have one child, Robert Steel, born in Akron September 22, 1919, and now attending the Old Trail school. Mr. Mankin has membership with the Phi Kappa Psi and, the Zeta Alpha Epsilon fraternities, while in club: circles he is well known, belonging to the Akron City Club and the Fairlawn Heights Golf Club. His residence is at 108 Kenilworth drive. PAINTER C. ALBERTSON Painter C. Albertson has had long experience in banking, building and loan and investment securities affairs. He has been engaged in the banking and mortgage loan business in Cuyahoga Falls for many years. A man of proven integrity and sound judgment in business affairs, energetic and progressive in his methods, he stands high in business circles in his community and commands the respect and confidence of his associates and friends. Mr. Albertson was born at Millersburg, August 7, 1879, and is a son of John J. and Martha (Buchanan) Albertson, both of whom are deceased. When a boy he moved with his parents to a farm west of Millersburg, attended the country school and later the Millersburg high school and the Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio. For six years he, taught school and then engaged in business in Holmesville, Ohio. In 1907 he was elected cashier of the Holmesville Banking Company, serving in that position until 1912. From 1912 to 1916 he was employed in the Citizens National Bank of Wooster, Ohio. In 1916 he moved to Cuyahoga Falls to complete the organization of the old Citizens Bank and 720 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY served the company as cashier for six years. In 1916 he also became the local agent of the Wayne Building & Loan Company of Wooster in northern Summit county. His firm, the Wayne Agency Company, of which he is sole owner, has built up a large mortgage loan and insurance business, representing a number of companies with a large volume of business extending all over northern Summit county. He has long been an authority on real estate values and his motto has been financing on terms the average person can meet. In 1901 Mr. Albertson was married to Blanche Bushey Sidell, daughter of Phil S. and Louise (Bushey) Sidell, of Shreve, Ohio. They have two sons, Donald S. and Roy E., both attending Akron University. The democratic party receives Mr. Albertson's allegiance. He has always been actively interested in public affairs of his city, has served six years as a member of the sinking fund commission and two years on the city council. He is a member of the First Congregational church, is a Mason, a member of the Kiwanis Club, Silver Lake Country Club and the Chamber of Commerce. He has earned for himself a creditable place in the business circles of his community and has proven loyal to all those interests which make for true manhood and progressive citizenship. ARCHIBALD ADAM DUNCAN Archibald Adam Duncan figures prominently in Akron's business circles as vice president and manager of the Duncan Oil Company and as president of the Akron Soap Company. He was born at Houghton, Michigan, June 29, 1884, a son of Adam and Margaret H. (Cochrane) Duncan, who were natives of Cleveland, Ohio, and Edinburgh, Scotland, respectively. The latter came to the United States when a maiden of seventeen summers, locating in Cleveland. In 1884, when his son Archibald was but three months old, Adam Duncan brought his family from Cleveland to Akron, then a small town. He was a man of sterling character and of an industrious nature, and to further supply the necessities of life for a growing family he embarked in the business of manufacturing soap in a substantial stone building which he purchased on North Case avenue, near Bank street, the structure being then fifty years old. It is still standing and is now nearly a century old. When this became too small for his AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 723 expanding business Mr. Duncan purchased a plant on East Furnace street, on the present site of the Pockrandt paint house, where he carried on his interests until the city fathers ruled that he must move the factory to the outskirts. Therefore he bought property on Cuyahoga street, where he established the extensive plant that now accommodates the business of the Akron Soap Company and the Duncan Oil Company. The latter concern was organized in 1919. Adam Duncan continued at the head of both the Akron Soap Company and the Duncan Oil Company until his death, since which time his business interests have been under the control of his sons and his son-in-law, Don M. Pfeiffer. To him and his wife, who passed away in 1921, were born five children. Alexander G. Duncan, born at Houghton, Michigan, in 1883, is president of the Duncan Oil Company of Youngstown, Ohio, and vice president of the Akron Soap Company. He is now married and resides in Youngstown. Archibald A., of this review, is the next in order of birth. Grace S. was born in 1886 in Akron, where she still makes her home. David J., born in Akron in 1890, is now a resident of Youngstown, Ohio, and is secretary and treasurer of the Duncan Oil Company. Ruth M., born in Akron in 1896, is the wife of Don M. Pfeiffer, assistant secretary and treasurer of the Duncan Oil Company. Archibald A. Duncan received his early education as a grade school pupil of Akron and continued his studies in the Central high school, from which he was graduated in 1902. He then joined his father in the soap manufacturing business, beginning work in a minor capacity and thoroughly acquainting himself with every phase of the industry as he worked his way upward through the various departments. At his father's death he succeeded to the presidency of the Akron Soap Company, which has continued to prosper under his capable control. The Duncan Oil Company, which handles the well known Tourist brand of motor oil and gasoline and of which Archibald A. Duncan is the vice president and manager, was established at Youngstown, Ohio, in 1919. The Akron branch of the Duncan Oil Company has succeeded to such an extent that at this time its annual business far exceeds that of the Akron Soap Company, the former showing annual sales of one million, five hundred thousand dollars and the latter of about five hundred thousand dollars. The Akron Soap Company furnishes employment to fifteen people and the Duncan Oil Company to fifty. Fifty-five stations handle the oil 724 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY in this district and one hundred and twenty-five stations in the Youngstown district, and more are constantly being added. On the first of November, 1918, in Akron, Mr. Duncan was united in marriage to Miss Martha W. Hanson, daughter of William Hanson and a representative of a prominent family of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Duncan are the parents of two sons : Robert W,. who was born October 25, 1919 ; and Archibald Adam, Jr., born May 5, 1921. Both are natives of Akron and are attending school in this city. In fraternal circles Mr. Duncan is a Knight Templar Mason, has also attained the thirty-second degree in the Scottish Rite, and is a Shriner. He is a member of the Odd Fellows, affiliating with Nemo Lodge. Ile is a member of the Masonic Club, is a director of the Burns building committee of the Burns Club and has membership in the Ohio Petroleum Manufacturers Association. In his religious belief he is a Congregationalist. In all the relations of life he has proved signally true to every trust, his career being characterized by sterling integrity and consistency of conduct. Mr. Duncan's residence is at 1212 Sunset View drive. G. CARL DIETZ In 1907 G. Carl Dietz aided in organizing the Depositors Savings & Trust Company of Akron and through the intervening period of twenty-one years has been president of this institution, which is largely the expression of his thoroughness, system and progressiveness. All the activities of his life have qualified him for the respect and honor now accorded him as a leading financier of Ohio. Industry, reliability and loyalty have ever guided him since he started out in the business world in a humble capacity—starting, however, on a road that has led to ultimate success. Mr. Dietz is a native son of Akron, his birth having here occurred March 28, 1875. His parents, Henry A. and Caroline (Rupp) Dietz, were natives of Germany but came to the United States in 1865 and the father was employed in the Akron Rolling Mills. He passed away in 1882 and is still survived by the mother, who carefully reared her family of seven children, of whom four are yet living, the others in addition to G. Carl Dietz being Mrs. Katherine Leffler, Henry A., and Mrs. Andrew Schneider. In his boyhood G. Carl Dietz attended the Lutheran parochial AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 725 school and later through intensive study at night acquired more than an average education. In the meantime, however, he had begun earning his living as a clerk in a grocery store, where for a year he devoted an average of fourteen hours daily to his tasks. Later he secured a position with the Diamond Match Company, with which he continued for a year, subsequently securing a better job as a clerk in the clothing store of the J. Koch Company of Akron. Three years were given to that work, after which he made his initial step in the banking business by becoming teller in the old Peoples Bank of Akron. His capability and industry gained him recognition that resulted in various promotions. From teller he was advanced to the position of assistant cashier and so continued for ten years, when he became cashier of the Security Savings Bank, which was later sold to the Peoples Bank. His service as cashier covered a period of fifteen years, during which he became well known in financial circles and found opportunity for an advance step in 1907, when he became one of the organizers of the Depositors. Savings & Trust Company. He was elected to the presidency and has continuously filled the position, so that his policies and directing spirit have been a chief force in making the institution what it is today—one of the strongest financial concerns of the city. He is also the secretary and treasurer of the Burkhardt Consolidated Company, vice president of the Herberich Realty Company, and president of the Bankers Guarantee Title & Trust Company and his opinions carry weight in financial and business circles, for his sound judgment and enterprise have been proven in the results which have followed his own activities. On the 7th of November, 1902, Mr. Dietz was married to Miss Ida Burkhardt, a daughter of William and Margaret Burkhardt, the former the founder of the Burkhardt Consolidated Company. She passed away in 1923 and in 1926 Mr. Dietz wedded Miss Jeanne Chaloner, of New York city, daughter of Thomas Chaloner. Mr. Dietz is well known in club circles, having membership in the Portage Country, Fairlawn Country, Congress Lake and Akron City clubs. His interest in civic affairs has been manifest in many tangible ways, particularly in his service as one of the commissioners having in charge the building of the Summit county court house annex. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and he likewise belongs to the Akron Liedertafel, the Akron Turners, the Akron Chamber of Commerce and the Akron Automobile Club. From an obscure position in the business world he has steadly worked his way up- 726 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY ward and in his youth, owing to the early death of his father, he contributed to the support of his widowed mother and her family. Although his opportunity of attending school was necessarily limited, he has ever been an apt student in the school of experience, learning thoroughly the most vital lessons of life, and in the conduct of important affairs today demonstrates his highly developed power as a financier and business man. FRANK T. BROOKE Frank T. Brooke, who has won well earned laurels in color photography, ranking as one of the eminent representatives of the art in America, maintains a studio in Akron that in its equipment is scarcely surpassed anywhere. Thoroughly artistic in nature and with most accurate and intimate knowledge of the art which he represents, he could command a princely income in carrying on his business in other cities, but his love of Akron has caused him to refuse flattering offers elsewhere and continue here, and Akron has shown her appreciation of the excellence of his work by giving him an extensive patronage, a large part of his business coming from the mammoth rubber and tire manufacturing interests of Akron. The Brooke Studio, located in the Peoples Bank building, is the last word in photography. Conversant with every phase of the art, Mr. Brooke has secured the latest improved equipment and in both plain and color photography has won a reputation that is one of notable distinction. A native of Brighton, Sussex, England, he was born October 9, 1886, and is a son of George Francis and Hannah (Shaw) Brooke, who, have spent their entire lives in England. The father was graduated in mathematics and penmanship from Linden Grove College in England, remaining a student there for seven years, and later he devoted his life to the lines in which he had specialized. He was considered one of the most expert and skilled penmen of his time and his writing could hardly be distinguished from the finest steel plate work. He won recognition wherever his work was exhibited in competition anywhere, and even in his later years his penmanship gained favorable comment by all who saw it. The father passed away in 1925, at the age of eighty-three years, and the mother is still living at the age of seventy-eight years, making her home in Leeds. Their family numbered five children : Mrs. Edith Helen Wharton Florence Louise, now AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 729 the wife of Frank Appleby; Mrs. Lillian Hannam ; Charles Nor-bury; and Frank T. Having acquired his preliminary education in the primary schools of Sussex, Frank T. Brooke continued his studies in St. Thomas Academy, where his course was equivalent to that of a high school course. He afterward entered upon an apprenticeship to the three and four color process of printing and photography, serving a full term. He was keenly interested in the work and became capable of producing the highest type of work of this character ever turned out. Following the completion of his apprenticeship he continued with his employers, the Waddingtons, Ltd., of Leeds, Yorkshire, for three years and three months and was made superintendent of their vast plant. Hearing much, however, concerning the opportunities of the new world, especially in his particular field of labor, he decided to try his fortune in the United States and on the second day after his arrival was told to apply for a position with the Werner Company. He made application to Paul Werner, and having been asked for his credentials, he demonstrated what he was capable of doing and was immediately employed, becoming one of the most important men in that organization. He was placed on color work and was soon given all of the most exacting work of this description accorded the firm, receiving assignments over employees of much longer connection with the house. Owing to an injury which his father had sustained he returned to England at his mother's entreaty after applying to Paul Werner for a leave of absence, which was immediately granted. On reaching his old home at Manchester, however, he found that his mother was needlessly worried over the father's injury and after six weeks he again crossed the Atlantic. He returned to Akron and resumed his former position with Mr. Werner for a few years and then accepted a most flattering offer from the Sunset Publishing Company of San Francisco, California. His work was so superior to that of any previous work of this character that had been done for the company, owing to the fact that he possessed the artistic touch, that he was made mechanical superintendent of the plant and remained there for eight years. In the meantime his skill became recognized over a wide territory and he was constantly solicited to accept other positions elsewhere, but he remained faithful to his employers, who showed their appreciation of his superior skill by offering him a fifty per cent interest in the color photography work if he would enter into a partnership relation. Feeling that he could 730 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY do equally well on his own account, he refused this offer and at an urgent demand made upon him to return to Akron he came back to this city in 1922 and established his present business. Here he has one of the finest studios of the kind in the country, supplied with the latest improvements and equipment, and his work has gone into every section of the country. Some of it which was sent to Washington was there pronounced the finest ever turned out. Mr. Brooke has among his patrons a number of the leading rubber and tire manufacturing concerns as well as the leading mercantile establishments of the city and his patronage has now reached extensive proportions. On the 30th of June, 1919, Mr. Brooke was married to Miss Nellie Fischer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. August Fischer, prominent residents of Akron. Their eldest son, Harold, died in infancy. Their son Russell was born in Akron, September 28, 1922. Mr. Brooke gives his political allegiance to the republican party and his religious faith is that of the Episcopal church. He belongs to the Fraternal Order of Eagles and naturally is connected with the National Photographers Association. His standards not only in photography but in every relation of life are of the highest and in his chosen field he speaks with authority, his work everywhere receiving the endorsement of those most capable of judging. EDWARD WILLIAMS BARTON, M. D. Dr. Edward Williams Barton, of Alhambra, California, formerly a physician and surgeon of Akron, in which city he was born October 13, 1874, is a son of Napoleon C. and Addie (Upington) Barton. The father, who was born in Rochester, New York, in 1845, was descended from Connecticut Yankee stock originally from. England and was a great nephew of Colonel William Barton of Revolutionary war fame, who on a wager swam the Delaware river and captured a sword from a British officer. The mother of Dr. Barton was born in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1849, and was a daughter of Thomas Upington, of English descent, and a niece of William, Earl of Blennerhasset. Her father was a nephew of Sir Thomas Upington, premier of Cape Colony, the British possession. Mr. Upington became a jeweler of Akron in the '70s. He married Kate Williams, a niece of the AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 731 Earl of Blennerhasset, who was induced by Aaron Burr to finance an expedition to seize Texas from Mexico and got into trouble with our government for their activities, even though later the government carried out a project similar to that which had been proposed. Dr. Barton attended the Akron public schools and the University of Cincinnati, from which he won his professional degree in 1901, and during his college days he became a member of the T. N. E. fraternity. For a brief period in his youth, between the ages of ten and twelve years, he had lived with the family in El Paso, Texas. He practiced medicine in Akron from 1901 until the World war and for three years was connected with the army, spending one year of the time in France. Since 1921 he has made his home in Alhambra, California, his removal being due to loss of health as the result of trench life in France in 1918. On the western coast his health has greatly improved and he is there specializing in diagnosis and is also a director of the Finance and Thrift Company of Alhambra. His military experience began in 1915, when he assisted in the organization of Battery B, from which were trained over one hundred officers for use in the World war. In 1916 he went to the Mexican border, acting as surgeon attached to the Ohio Field Artillery, and returned to Fort Sheridan, Illinois, in 1917 to reform as the One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Field Artillery of the Thirty-seventh Division, of the Hospital Corps of which he became a captain. He trained his Regimental Hospital Corps at Camp Sheridan, Alabama, for service in France, embarking at Long Island in the early part of 1918, and he was on active duty in the trenches until the armistice was signed but was left in a hospital in France while his regiment came home. In the summer of 1919 he returned to the United States in a hospital ship with health shattered and could not resume practice for three years. Dr. Barton was married February 25, 1904, in Akron, to Jeannette Allen, who was born in Akron and is a graduate of Buchtel College. She became a member of the Delta Gamma sorority was connected with the College Club and is now a member of the Delphians of Pasadena. Her father, Victor J. Allen, born in Akron, was the owner of Allen Mills that stood where the Williams foundry is now located. He has passed away, while his wife, who bore the maiden name of Ella J. Shepherd and was born on what is now the public square of Cleveland, is still liv- 732 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY ing in that city. Dr. and Mrs. Barton have two children, Edward Williams and Victor Paul, both students in California universities. Dr. Barton is a Knight Templar and thirty-second degree Mason and Mystic Shriner and he became a charter member of Henry Perkins Lodge, F. & A. M. He was a charter member of the Akron City Club and since his removal to the west has become a member of the San Gabriel Country Club. While in the Boy Scout movement he has taken a very active and prominent part, being president of the Boy Scouts of Alhambra and Arcadia, California. He is also a member of the Alhambra Rotary Club and Alhambra Athletic Club. In his political views he is a republican and in his religious faith a Congregationalist. JAMES GIRARD BLOWER, M. D. Among the well known representatives of professional activity in Akron none stands higher in medical circles than does Dr. James Girard Blower, who is an outstanding surgeon, his opinions being largely accepted as authority by his contemporaries in practice here. There is much, moreover, that is stimulating in his life record, as it shows what can be accomplished when there is a will to dare and to do. From a humble financial position he has steadily worked his way upward, dependent upon his own resources from the age of twelve years. He was born in Derbyshire, England, March 21, 1878, his parents being John and Emma (Bentley) Blower, who were also natives of that country, whence they came to America in 1886, settling first in Philadelphia but soon afterwards removing to Athens county, Ohio, where the father became well known in connection with the coal mining industry as a mine inspector. He passed away in Athens county in 1913, when fifty-eight years of age, while the mother survived until 1920. Their family numbered nine children and, in addition to Dr. Blower, these were : Philip, now of Santa Ana, California ; Thomas, living in Athens; George T., Edward, Mrs. Justice Bircher and Mrs. Mary Watson, all of Los Angeles, California; Mrs. Joseph Hancock, of England ; and Prudence, deceased. Dr. Blower was a lad of eight summers when brought to America. He pursued his education in the schools of Athens county to the age of twelve years, when he started out to earn his AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 735 living by working in the coal mines as a trapper. Necessity compelled this course, for his father had met with a serious accident in the mines and it was necessary that the boy aid in the support of the family. While he was thus working he attended night school for four years, being ambitious to gain broader knowledge, for he realized the advantage of education as a factor in business success. When eighteen years of age he left home and went to Philadelphia, where he secured a position as a brakeman on the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad. After two years spent in that connection he was advanced to the position of freight conductor and while thus working in the daytime he again improved his opportunities for educational progress by attending the night school maintained by the Young Men's Christian Association, taking a special course. He did this with the desire to enter upon a professional career, and when he had made his general education sufficiently broad and thorough he matriculated in the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania, where he carried on his preliminary studies. Later he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore, Maryland, and was graduated with the class of 1905. During his student days there he was elected president of the college Young Men's Christian Association and was also chosen president of the alumni. When he had won his M. D. degree he entered upon active practice as an interne in Baltimore hospitals and he also received special instruction in surgery with Dr. Isaac Ridgeway Trimble, of Baltimore, chief surgeon of the Baltimore & Ohio Railway, as his preceptor. He had thus gained considerable valuable practical experience as well as theoretical knowledge when he returned to Athens county and entered upon general practice. During his last year in college he had endeavored to perfect himself on children's diseases, pulmonary troubles and anatomical and pathological work. In Athens county he formed a partnership with Dr. A. D. Allen, who had opened a private' hospital there, and a year later he acquired his partner's interest in the institution, which he conducted independently, being the only physician at that time in Athens county who was doing surgical work. He remained there for ten years and for three years of that period filled the position of district health officer, while for two years he was county coroner. He exerted a widely felt influence in political as well as professional circles and was regarded as one of the representative men of that district. Disposing of his practice after taking a postgraduate course 736 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY at Harvard, Dr. Blower removed to Akron in 1913, believing that as this was a manufacturing center there would be offered broader opportunities for surgical practice. Throughout the intervening period of fifteen years he has concentrated his efforts and attention upon surgery and his operative skill places him with the eminent men of the profession in this section of the state. He is serving as surgeon on the staff of the People's Hospital, Wadsworth Hospital and the Barberton Hospital and on the associate staff of the Children's Hospital, and he has been a close and constant student of his profession, so that he is familiar with the latest researches and discoveries which are constantly rendering surgical work more effective. Appreciation of his high standing came to him in appointment to membership on the state medical examining board, his service thereon covering eight years, while in 1927 he was elected president of the board. For the past eight years he has also been a member of the Akron Health Commission and its president for five years. He is a life member of the Military Surgeons of the United States and during the World war he joined the Medical Corps of the United States army, being commissioned captain November 1, 1918, after which he was stationed at Camp Sherman and also in New York, assisting in the establishment of hospitals at Tarrytown. On the 30th of November, 1908, Dr. Blower was married to Miss Blanche Morgan, of Columbus, Ohio, a daughter of John Morgan. They have three children : Beatrice Lois, who was born in Glouster, Ohio, in 1909 and is a graduate of West high school of Akron and the Martha Washington Seminary of Washington, D. C., while now she is a student in the Erskine school at Boston, Massachusetts, class of 1929 ; Edmund Ridgeway, who was born in Glouster in 1910 and was a student of the West high school, while at the present writing he is attending the Western Reserve Academy at Hudson, class of 1929, and is prominent in athletics, being captain of the football and basketball teams; and James Morgan, who was born in Akron, September 29, 1924. Dr. Blower is a life member of the American Red Cross. He belongs to the Aesculapian Club, the Fairlawn Heights Golf Club, the Lions Club, the Akron City Club, the Izaak Walton League, of which he is a director, and the Masonic Club. In Masonry he has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite and is also a Mystic Shriner. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and Mrs. Blower belongs to the Eastern Star, the Tuesday Musical Club, the City Club, and the Del- AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 737 phian Club. Their social position is an enviable one and their own home at 308 Rose boulevard is noted for its warm-hearted hospitality. The interests and activities of Dr. Blower's life are well balanced, but he allows nothing to interfere with the faithful performance of his professional duties. He belongs to the Summit County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association and his professional brethren entertain for him high regard for what he has accomplished and for his close conformity to the advanced ethical standards of his calling. He certainly deserves credit for what he has achieved, for thrown upon his own resources at an early age, he made it possible to secure an education which would fit him for high position and important service in the world. CHARLES J. JAHANT Charles J. Jahant, vice president and general superintendent of the General Tire & Rubber Company, of Akron, is one of the well known men connected with the rubber industry in this city. Mr. Jahant was born in Akron, on the 19th of June, 1885, and is a son of Augustus and Mary (McCartin) Jahant. His father, now deceased, was born and reared in Akron and was one of the pioneer merchants of this city, being president of the Jahant Furnace Company, which was one of the large and important commercial establishments of its day, in this section of the state. Mr. Jahant's mother, whose maiden name was Mary McCartin, was born in St. Catherines, Ontario, Canada, and in early childhood was brought by her parents to Akron, where she was reared and educated, and is still a resident of Akron. To Mr. and Mrs. Augustus Jahant were born five children, namely : Charles J.; Augustus P., president of the Jahant Electrical Company, of Akron; Mrs. H. S. Quine, Mrs. John McGarry and Miss Marion Jahant, all of whom live in Akron. Charles J. Jahant was reared and educated in Akron, attending the parochial grade and high school, concluding his education at Buchtel College, from which he received his degree of Bachelor of Science with the class of 1909. He entered on his business career in connection with the rubber industry, being employed in the chemical and pneumatic tire departments of the Firestone Tire & Rubber Company, later becoming superintendent of the latter department. Mr. Jahant remained with the Firestone Tire 24-VOL. 3 738 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY & Rubber Company for seven years, resigning his position to become connected with the General Tire & Rubber Company. During the twelve years of his connection with this company he has been advanced from time to time, as the recognition of work well done and his capacity for assuming greater burdens and responsibilities, to his present capacity of vice president and superintendent in charge of manufacturing. Among his other business connections Mr. Jahant is a member of the board of directors of the Ohio State Bank & Trust Company, also a director of the St. Thomas Hospital Association. On the 14th of April, 1920, in Akron, Mr. Jahant was married to Miss Anna E. Bowman, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Bowman, of a prominent old family of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Jahant have three sons and a daughter, all born in Akron; William F., born August 2, 1921; Mary Ann, born February 23, 1923; John W., born December 16, 1925, and Thomas A., born July 27, 1926. Mr. Jahant is well known in club circles, being a member of the Portage Country Club, the Akron City Club, the University Club, and the Akron Automobile Club. He is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and belongs to the Lone Star fraternity. His entire business career has been spent in the rubber industry and he has attained a prominent position among those men whose activities have played an important part in Akron's leading industry, being regarded as a man of capable and dependable qualities, doing well whatever he undertakes and standing as a representative of the city's best citizenship. Residence No. 179 Storer Avenue. CRISS WESTON FRANZ Criss W. Franz is president of the, Franz Foundry and Machine Company, of Barberton, one of the important industrial concerns of this locality. He was born in Akron, Ohio, on the 22d of April, 1897, and is a son of C. and Minnie A. (Weston) Franz, of whom the latter now lives in Pasadena, California. His father, who is deceased, was prominent in manufacturing circles, being treasurer and one of the organizers of the Williams Foundry & Machine Company of Akron. Criss W. Franz, after completing the public school course, AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 741 attended Phillips Exeter Academy, and then entered Yale University, from which he was graduated with the degree of Civil Engineer in 1917. His first active work was in the Williams foundry at Akron, but during the World war he enlisted in the United States Naval Air Service and was commissioned an ensign, being in the service for twenty-seven months. In 1919 the Franz Foundry & Machine Company was organized by C. Franz, Criss W. Franz, Ward H. Parry, J. M. Alderfer and John A. Brittain, the first and last named being now deceased. The present plant on East State street, Barberton, was constructed and production was begun in the manufacture of rubber working machinery, seventy-five persons being employed. The present officers of the company are Criss W. Franz, president; J. M. Alderfer, vice president; C. C. Chisnell, secretary; and Ward H. Parry, treasurer. The company is kept busy and enjoys a large and steadily increasing business, there being a steady demand for the special line of machinery which it produces. On June 23, 1923, Mr. Franz was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Kendig, of Akron, and they are the parents of a son, Criss W., Jr., born August 27, 1926, in Akron. Mr. Franz gives his political support to the republican party. He is a member of the Akron Rotary Club, the Portage Country Club and the Akron Chamber of Commerce, while his religious membership is with the First Presbyterian church of Akron. He is a director of the Williams Foundry & Machine Company of Akron. His residence is at 1111 West Exchange street. FERDINAND SCHUMACHER In the commercial and industrial history of this country no name stands out more conspicuously than does that of Ferdinand Schumacher, to whose initiative and determined efforts was due the development of one of our most important and popular lines of food. Cereals have long been one of the most staple articles of the American breakfast table and Mr. Schumacher alone solved the secret of the successful manufacture of an oatmeal, a problem which had previously defied all who had attempted it. Not only was he successful to a notable degree in his material affairs, but also gained wide prominence for his earnest, persistent and effective efforts in behalf of the public moral and economic welfare, having given generously of his time and money to the ad- 742 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY vancement of the cause of prohibition of the liquor traffic, which he firmly believed to be the greatest underlying cause of poverty and crime. In every phase of his career he exhibited the sterling qualities of loyal citizenship and true manhood, and no name on the roll of Ohio's illustrious men is more deserving of eulogy than is his. Mr. Schumacher was born on the 30th of March, 1822, in Celle, Hanover, Germany, and was a son of F. C. and Louise Schumacher. He was reared at home and received the advantage of a good public school education. When fifteen years old he went to work as a clerk in a grocery store, and later was employed in a sugar refinery. In 1850, when twenty-eight years of age, he and his brother Otto emigrated to the United States, locating on a farm near Painesville, Ohio. Two years later Mr. Schumacher went to Akron and established a grocery business, to which he devoted his attention for eighteen years. In his earlier life in Germany he had watched the crude manufacture of oatmeal in a little mill which stood back of the grocery store in which he was employed, and in his mind there evolved the idea which developed into tangible form when, after coming to this country, he discovered that the only oatmeal on the market was imported from Scotland or Canada. Believing that he could make a product superior to these, in 1856 he rented water power on the Ohio canal, in the northwestern part of the city, and, installing the necessary machinery, began making oatmeal. He was successful in producing a product superior in every respect to any other on the market and from the beginning found ready sale for it. A year later he also put in machinery for pearling barley, and soon afterward was compelled to increase the capacity of the German mills, as the original plant was called. The business increased rapidly, so that in 1863 it became necessary to erect another mill, which was devoted entirely to the pearling of barley, and which was called the Empire Mill. In 1866 Mr. Schumacher bought the Cascade mill, one of the largest and best equipped flour mills in the state and located on the canal just above the German mills. He made important improvements in the mill to suit his special requirements and it added very materially to his productive ability. In 1872 the old German mills were burned, after which a large brick building was erected adjoining the Empire mill, near the depot, where better shipping facilities were afforded, and this was one of the largest mills in the country at that time. In 1875 the effective power of the Cascade mills was AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 743 doubled by altering the water supply, at which time also the machinery equipment of the mill was radically changed and the number of buhrs increased to eleven. At this time also improved machinery was installed for the making of farina and high grade flour, while in the same year extensive additions were made to the Empire mill, which was still used exclusively for the manufacture of pearl barley, there was installed a two-hundred-andfifty-horse-power Fitchburg engine, one of the largest used up to that time in this section of the country. This doubled the capacity of the mill, which had a capacity of twelve hundred bushels of barley a day. The German mill used two thousand five hundred bushels of oats a day and the Cascade mill twelve hundred bushels of wheat a day. By 1879 Mr. Schumacher had a quarter of -a million dollars invested in the three mills and was doing a business of a million dollars a year. This success was attained solely through the merits of the mill products and the sound business policy of Mr. Schumacher, who at that time had only one traveling salesman. He had started out with a high ideal as to the quality of his foods, and he faithfully maintained his standard, taking a justifiable pride in the fact that he was making a better grade of oatmeal than any previously made. This eventually resulted in closing the American market to foreign-made oatmeal. In 1886 Mr. Schumacher suffered a loss of six hundred thousand dollars through the destruction of his mills by fire, but he immediately took steps to rebuild, forming the F. Schumacher Milling Company. This was later consolidated with other mills, forming the Quaker Oats Company, the head office of which was in Chicago, and of which Mr. Schumacher became president, which position he retained until retiring from active business life in 1899, when he resigned. Mr. Schumacher was also financially interested in a number of other manufacturing interests and at one time owned much valuable real estate in Akron. Late in life he met with some financial reverses, through unfortunate investments, but no one lost a cent through him, as he paid every obligation in full, and maintained the confidence and respect of all. Though always a very busy man, Mr. Schumacher never lost sight of his obligations to the community nor evaded the responsibilities of citizenship. He took a keen interest in those things which were calculated to promote the general welfare and no worthy cause appealed to him in vain. He served a number of years as a trustee of Buchtel College, which later became the University of Akron, and gave liberally towards its support. He 744 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY became one of the organizers of the Akron Hospital, to which he gave generously, and many other institutions were the beneficiaries of his kindness and philanthropy. He believed in churches and gave to their support, though most generous of his own church, the Universalist, to which he gave the church lot and assisted materially in defraying the cost of the building. He served for many years as a trustee of that church. He was greatly interested in Glendale cemetery and, at his own expense, erected a handsome tower there, containing a bell, which, in accordance with his sentiments, was tolled during every burial service for many years. He was a strong advocate of temperance in everything, particularly in relation to alcoholic liquors, and showed his consistency by not only supporting the prohibition party, but in lending his influence, his personal effort and his means to bringing about prohibition through legislation. In this he set a worthy example and undoubtedly had much to do with stimulating others to give their active support to the cause so dear to his heart. He was essentially a man among men, moving as one who commanded respect by innate force as well as by superior ability, and as a citizen he easily ranked with the most influential of his compeers in affairs looking toward the betterment of his community. His nature, strong and vigorous, found expression in generous deeds and fruitful service for humanity. Measured by its accomplishment, its beneficence and its helpful optimism, the life of Mr. Schumacher had wide and emphatic significance. His death occurred on April 15, 1908, when he was eighty-six years of age. ROBERT HARRY NOAH Robert H. Noah, one of the best known contractors and builders of Akron, is treasurer of The Clemmer Noah Construction Company, whose activities represent a substantial contribution to Akron's upbuilding. Mr. Noah was born in this city, December 18, 1892, his parents being Andrew Hale and Isabella (McGill) Noah. The father, who has long been prominently identified with Akron's industrial and financial interests, is mentioned at length on another page of this work. Robert H. Noah, an only child, attended the graded schools until he had completed a course in the Akron high school, after which he pursued his preparatory studies in Asheville, North Carolina. He next entered Cornell University, spending two AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 747 years in Ithaca, after which he returned to Akron and for five years was engaged in the automobile business on his own account. When America entered the World war, however, he disposed of his interests along that line and enlisted for service, being commissioned a second lieutenant in the Motor Transport Corps. He was then detailed for duty overseas and spent a year and a half in the service, being actively engaged throughout that period. He received his discharge in June, 1919. With his return to Akron, Mr. Noah became identified with the Rubber City Clearing House Company and was closely associated with the rubber industry here until 1922, when he resigned to enter the architectural field in connection with C. W. Frank, since which time the firm of Noah & Frank has operated very successfully in Akron, having erected a number of the most beautiful homes of the city. They maintain their service at high standards and their enterprise and progressiveness is supplemented by originality and initiative which have resulted in the upbuilding of a very important, extensive and growing business. Among his other business interests he is a director and the treasurer of The Clemmer Noah Construction Company, of which he was one of the organizers in September, 1928. On the 7th of July, 1915, was celebrated the marriage of Robert H. Noah and Miss Mary C. Hall, a daughter of W. C. Hall and a representative of one of Akron's prominent families. They have one son, Robert Andrew Noah, born in Akron, April 21, 1922. Appreciative of the social amenities of life, Mr. Noah is well known in club circles, belonging to the Akron City Club, the Portage Country Club, the Akron Automobile Club and the Akron University Club. His entire business career has been passed in this city, so that he has a very wide acquaintance among its citizens, and the sterling worth of his character is attested by the strong friendships accorded him. Residence 470 Merriman road. W. CLIFFORD JOHNSON Among those who have in a very definite way contributed to the growth and development of Akron, W. Clifford Johnson is entitled to specific mention, for his operations as a home builder and real estate man have been of a magnitude that places him among the leaders in his line in this section of the state. Mr. 748 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Johnson was born in Wallingford, Delaware county, Pennsylvania, March 27, 1887, and is a son of Winfield and Annie (Ives) Johnson, whom also were natives of the old Keystone state, where the mother is still living. The father, now deceased, was for many years successfully engaged in the contracting and building business, was a man of marked ability and strong character and was greatly respected by all who knew him. To him and his wife were born two children, W. Clifford and Mrs. Lillian Myers, who resides in Akron. W. Clifford Johnson attended the public schools of his home neighborhood and graduated from high school in Philadelphia when seventeen years of age. He went to work with his father, under whom he learned the building contracting business in every detail, remaining with him until 1907, when he came to Akron and started in the contracting business on his own account. In this he has been very successful, having erected and sold over two thousand five hundred homes in and near Akron. He is now promoting a building campaign which involves the investment of over one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, and which he hopes to make the climax of his business career. He is painstaking and thorough in the construction of his houses, for he caters to a class of people who are discriminating in their tastes and he aims to build houses that will be real homes, embodying modern ideas and conveniences, as well as distinctive design. Mr. Johnson incor porated his business under the name of The W. C. Johnson Company, Builders, of which he is president and treasurer. He is also engaged in a general real estate business and has handled a large amount of city and country property. On June 28, 1912, in Akron, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss May Mason, a daughter of Richard Mason of Akron, and they are the parents of two children, Mary Louise, born in 1916, and Dorothy Elizabeth, born in June, 1919, both attending school. A member of the Masonic fraternity he belongs to lodge, chapter and commandery, as well as the Scottish Rite bodies and is a member of the Masonic Club, the Silver Lake Country Club and the Akron Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. His favorite diversion is the game of golf, of which he is a constant player, being never satisfied until he has completed the eighteenth hole. On May 30, 1928, he began playing early in the morning and made the circuit of the course three times, finishing late in the afternoon in splendid physical condition. Though his business makes AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 749 heavy demand on his time, he maintains a constant interest in the affairs of his city and county and is ever ready to lend his efforts and influence to the advancement of measures for the public welfare. In business he has shown marked initiative and enterprise and his activities have contributed to Akron's improvement as well as to the upbuilding of his individual fortunes. ROBERT J. KRAUS Robert J. Kraus is a successful architect and represents a family whose members have contributed materially toward Akron's upbuilding and progress. He was born in this city on the 29th of May, 1887, and is a son of Peter and Theresa (Ambs) Kraus, natives of Germany. When very young they came to the United States with their parents, who settled in Akron, where the father has resided for more than seventy years. He is president of the Diamond Foundry Company and a detailed account of his life is published elsewhere in this work. Robert. J. Kraus received his early instruction in St. Bernard's parochial school, also attended the public schools of Akron, and was next a student in Washington University. His education was completed in the University of Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1912, completing a course in architecture, and he has since followed his profession in Akron. In the intervening period he has designed and constructed many fine churches, public buildings, and residences, fine examples of his handiwork being seen in Akron. Although a scholar in his craft, thoroughly acquainted with the various styles and distinctive periods of architecture, Mr. Kraus shows an unusual power of modifying and combining the qualities composing them, and his work has become a distinctive feature in Akron's improvement and adornment. He has a partner and the firm is known as Kraus & Helmkamp, their offices being located on the fourth floor of the Metropolitan building. On October 1, 1920, Mr. Kraus was married in Akron to Miss Marie Freiss, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Freiss and a member of one of the prominent families of the city. Mr. and Mrs. Kraus have three sons : Robert, who was born in 1921 and is a public school pupil ; Richard, who was born in 1924 ; and James, born in 1926. Mr. Kraus is a faithful communicant of the Roman Catholic church and holds the third degree in the