(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) 50 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY and prevented his further active connection with musical interests. He then turned his attention to commercial pursuits, opening a store at the corner of Mill and Main streets, where he handled ice cream, candy and fruits. He afterward removed to 47 East Mill street, where he remained for fifteen years, being for many years a representative of the commercial interests of the city. He built up a large trade, his business returning to him a substantial annual income, and at all times his methods were thoroughly reliable and progressive. On the 2d of July, 1873, Mr. Masino was married to Miss Filomena Rotunni, of Baltimore, Maryland, and they became the parents of eight children : Frank, who is conducting a delicatessen store on Euclid avenue in Cleveland and married Edna Miller, by whom he has two children, Robert and Mary Louise; Rose; Louise; Rocco, who is engaged in the brokerage business in Akron and who married Gertrude Arehart; Anthony C., also engaged in the brokerage business in Akron, who resides at 1143 Sunset View drive and who married Antoinette Masino, by whom he has a son, Charles Anthony; Michael and Gerald, twins; and Fannie. The family circle was broken by the hand of death when on the 30th of December, 1916, the husband and father was called to his final rest. He was at one time a member of the Protected Home Circle but withdrew from that connection. He was long identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and he held membership in St. Vincent's Catholic church. His was a busy and useful life and the sterling traits of his character were manifest in the fact that he had a very extensive circle of warm friends. JACOB PFEIFFER Jacob Pfeiffer, president of the Miller Rubber Company, is one of the outstanding figures in connection with the rubber industry in Akron. A pioneer in this field, his identification with the business antedates that of any other executive head in Akron's principal industry. Throughout his career he has displayed marked ability in coordinating seemingly diverse interests and unifying them into a harmonious whole. He has carefully studied conditions and opportunities in the business world, and his AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 53 resourcefulness and broad vision have enabled him to advance far on the highroad to success. Jacob Pfeiffer is a native of Wadsworth, Medina county, Ohio, born April 7, 1861. His parents, Jacob and Henrietta (Zorn) Pfeiffer, were natives of Germany and came to the United States in the early '60s. The father settled in Wadsworth, where he followed his trade of a shoemaker, a business to which he directed his efforts throughout his remaining days. Both he and his wife spent their last years in Akron. They were the parents of eight children, of whom only four are now living: Jacob, William F. and Mrs. H. C. Ries, all of Akron; and Mrs. John Dieckmann, living in Elm Grove, West Virginia. Jacob Pfeiffer was reared in Wadsworth and attended the public schools of that place. He was about sixteen when he entered on his business career as a clerk in the Steinbacher drug store in Akron. This was in 1877 and was the beginning of his connection with the city's business interests that has extended through more than fifty years, with only a slight interruption when, for a short time, he was employed in a wholesale drug house in Cleveland. Upon his return to Akron he engaged in the retail drug business in partnership with a Mr. Lamparter. In 1892, while yet in the retail drug business, Mr. Pfeiffer and his partner became interested in the rubber industry by starting as a small concern in the manufacture of rubber goods. The original plant was a one story building, twenty by fifty feet, on a part of the present site of the Miller Rubber Company, and was devoted to the manufacture of rubber specialties, including gloves, hot water bottles and other useful articles and appliances. Gradually the scope of the business was enlarged and Mr. Pfeiffer contributed thereto through the invention of a number of useful articles, one of the most important of which is the seamless rubber glove, now used by physicians, surgeons, nurses and others throughout the entire world. The company obtained its name through the fact that in the early days of its existence, a young man by the name of Miller was placed in a nominal position in the factory, and as the name became known in trade circles, it was considered unwise to change it. Mr. Pfeiffer foresaw the possibilities for development and in 1896 traded his interest in the drug store to his partner, Mr. Lamparter, for the latter's interest in the rubber factory. About 1898, William F. Pfeiffer, a brother, came into the business and has since been prominently identified with its management, being now general manager, sec- 54 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY retary and treasurer. In 1900 the business was incorporated as the Miller Rubber Manufacturing Company, and in 1906 it took on its present corporate title of the Miller Rubber Company. The history of the Miller Rubber Company, like that of most noteworthy enterprises, is filled with the romance of achievement and is inseparably a part of the life history of Jacob Pfeiffer, who has been its guiding spirit and executive head since its inception. The plant has been enlarged from time to time to meet the growing demands of the trade until it now utilizes more than thirty-three acres of floor space, employing five thousand people. It has become one of the dominant factors in the rubber trade, and Miller tires are known all over the world. Aside from the Miller Rubber Company, Mr. Pfeiffer has numerous other interests, being president of the Miller Rubber Company of New York; president and a director of the Logan Clay Products Company of Logan, Ohio, which he organized and incorporated; a director of the Central Savings & Trust Company; and the Dime Savings Bank Company, and a director of various other important business enterprises. He has made extensive investments in real estate, including the purchase of a number of outlying farms, which have become valuable subdivisions of Akron. He is well known in Club circles, belonging to the Akron City, Portage Country and Congress Lake Clubs, the Congressional Country Club of Washington, D. C., the Greenwich Colony Clubs, Inc., of New York, and the Society of Ohio and New York. He belongs to the National Rubber Manufacturers Association and has a very wide acquaintance among the rubber magnates of the country. Fraternally Mr. Pfeiffer is a member of the different Masonic divisions, including Columbus Consistory, Scottish Rite, Tadmor Temple of the Mystic Shrine; and Akron Commandery, Knights Templar. He is also a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. In 1920 Mr. Pfeiffer was united in marriage to Miss Katherine D. Dunne, and they are well known in the best social circles of Akron. Mr. Pfeiffer's success in the business world is the result of application and the possession of unusual business ability, both as an executive and as a financier. His keen judgment and foresight enabled him to see the great possibilities in the manufacture of rubber goods. A native genius for organization and aptitude for successful management have been dominant characteristics in his business affairs. He is a man of well balanced capacities and AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 55 powers whose sound judgment and even paced energy have carried him steadily forward to a position of national prominence in his field of activity. Mr. Pfeiffer has had a career of unusual activity and notable success, and of which a careful analysis does not reveal any unusual advantages or opportunities to aid him at the outset. From a drug clerk he has steadily advanced through industry, persistency and mental alertness until his position is one of leadership. He is always genial, approachable, courteous and kindly, and thus it is that he can bank on the loyalty of his employes and count on the friendship of all with whom he has been brought in contact. RALPH LEVI KRYDER Ralph Levi Kryder is engaged in the general practice of law in Akron as senior partner of the firm of Kryder, Rogers & Bailey, one of the leading firms of the city, and its practice is of a very important character. Recognizing at the outset of his career that there is no calling in which advancement depends so largely on individual merit as in the practice of law, Ralph L. Kryder applied himself with great thoroughness to the mastery of legal principles and their correct application to the points at issue. He has ever been proverbial for the care and thoroughness with which he has prepared his cases and for his loyalty to the interests of his clients. Akron, therefore, is proud to number him among her native sons. His birth here occurred January 18, 1886, his parents being Joseph Harvey and Mary A. (Benson) Kryder, the former a native of Greentown, Ohio, born in 1861, while the mother was born in Akron and died in 1891. The family has long been represented in Summit county. Levi Kryder, grandfather of Ralph L. Kryder, established his home in this city many years ago and embarked in the grain, seed and implement business here in 1865. His sons, Joseph Harvey Kryder and Charles M. Kryder, were associated with him in the business, under the firm name of L. Kryder & Sons, which they conducted for some time where the Howe Hotel now stands on South Main street, near Market street. They succeeded their father as owner of the business, which they conducted until 1911, when they sold the property and retired, enjoying a rest which they have truly earned and richly deserve. Joseph H. Kryder's 56 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY wife passed away in 1891. They were the parents of two children, the daughter being Mabel A., wife of George W. Erwin, living in Akron, who has one son, John Erwin. The son, Ralph L. Kryder, attended the public schools until graduated from the Central high school in 1904, when eighteen years of age. Mentally reviewing the broad field of business, with its limitless opportunities along industrial, commercial and professional lines, he at length determined to make the practice of law his life work and with this end in view matriculated in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and there won his LL. B. degree upon his graduation in 1908. Turning to the southwest, he located at Okmulgee, Oklahoma, where he engaged in practice for two years, but in 1910 he returned to his native city and opened an office. Soon after his graduation he was admitted to the bars of Michigan, Ohio and Oklahoma and after his return to this state he began practice in Akron, where in 1912 he was appointed assistant city solicitor under Jonathan Taylor, while in 1916 he was reappointed to that office by Judge Ken-field, continuing thus to serve until 1918, when he formed a partnership with Russell E. Baer to engage in general law practice. This association was dissolved in 1925 and Mr. Kryder was then alone until November, 1927, when he became senior partner in the firm of Kryder, Rogers & Bailey. In this connection he continues in the general practice of law and now has a large clientele which makes steady demand upon his time and energies. He largely specializes in corporation law and has wide and accurate knowledge concerning this branch of the profession. He belongs to the Summit County, Ohio State and American Bar Associations and thus keeps in close touch with the activities of the profession and at all times supports its highest ethical standards. Aside from his law practice he is a director of the Standard Savings Bank, the Standard Mortgage Company and the India Machine & Rubber Mold Company, and his legal knowledge and business discernment make his opinions of value when these various directorates meet to shape the policy of their respective institutions. On the 11th of January, 1911, Mr. Kryder was married to Miss Pearle A. Hemmington, a daughter of Edward and Mary (Emerson) Hemmington, of Akron. They have become the parents of three children : Richard H., who was born in Akron, October 18, 1914; Edward H., born August 23, 1920; and Joan Elizabeth on June 14, 1926. The family residence on Wheaton AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 57 road, Fairlawn, was erected in 1926. Fraternally Mr. Kryder is a Mason, belonging to the lodge, chapter and council. He also belongs to the Fairlawn Country Club and to the Chamber of Commerce and is interested in all that pertains to the welfare and progress of city and state. His cooperation can ever be counted upon to further plans and movements for the general good and he is alert to every opportunity that promises to be of benefit along social, material, intellectual or moral lines. ROBERT DICKEY With the building operations of Akron, Robert Dickey has been closely and prominently identified, having through the course of an active, useful and successful career erected more than five hundred of the attractive and substantial structures here found. Thoroughness and efficiency have been his watchwords and he ranks today among the leading contractors, builders and real estate dealers of Summit county. His birth occurred in Painesville, Ohio, May 10, 1880, his parents being William and Anna (Patton) Dickey, who were of Canadian birth but came to Ohio in early life. The father always followed the occupation of farming, thus providing for the support of his family of eight children, of whom Robert was the youngest. Both he and his wife have now passed away. In his youthful days Robert Dickey attended the schools of Painesville and later spent one year as a student in Hiram College. Thus equipped for life's practical and responsible duties, he started out to make his own way in the world and for four years thereafter engaged in farming, to which occupation he had been reared, early gaining intimate knowledge of the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops while assisting his father in vacation periods during his youth. He did not find agricultural pursuits, however, entirely to his liking and a laudable ambition prompted his activity in other fields. He turned his attention to contracting and home building, starting along that line in 1910. Through the intervening period of eighteen years he has erected and sold about five hundred homes and other structures in Akron and vicinity and has thus contributed much to the improvement and development of this section. Thoroughly reliable and enterprising, he has carried on his business along 3-VOL. 2 58 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY progressive lines and the results attained have been most satisfactory. In April, 1910, Mr. Dickey was united in marriage to Miss Katherine B. Cumberland, of Toronto, Canada, a daughter of James Cumberland, of that city. They have two children : Raymond Francis, who was born in Akron, June 29, 1911, and is attending high school; and Nellie Minerva, who was born April 27, 1913, and is also in the public school. The religious faith of the parents is that of the Presbyterian church and they are well known socially, having many warm friends in the city where they now reside at 62 North Adolph avenue. J. EDWARD GOOD Success is not wealth; it is achievement—whether in the conduct of business, in the solution of problems or in the attainment of an ideal. All three figure in the life of J. Edward Good, prominent business man, citizen and philanthropist, who for nearly forty years has been the executive head of the Hardware & Supply Company, one of Akron's foremost mercantile institutions. Mr. Good was born in this city on the 15th of February, 1861, and is a representative of one of Akron's oldest families, a family whose connection with the city's business interests dates back to 1842, the year that his father, John T. Good, located here. John T. Good was born just outside the city of Strassburg, now France, October 25, 1818, and was a son of John and Margaret (Richert) Good, natives of Alsace, France. John Good was a farmer and grain dealer, and also took contracts to convey emigrants from Bavaria and Baden to the port of Havre, a distance of five hundred miles, which was the initial journey on their way to America. John T. Good came to America in 1838, making the voyage by sailing vessel. He landed at the port of New York on May 5th of the above year, and in a few days after landing he started for the west. As a contrast in the mode of travel then and now it is interesting to note the meanderings of his travel from New York to New Orleans, the objective destination. From New York he went by way of the canal to Buffalo, thence by lake to Cleveland and Chicago, thence by stage to Cincinnati, walked from that city to St. Louis, where he took a boat to New AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 61 Orleans. His intention was to locate in New Orleans, but the presence at that time of that dread disease, yellow fever, caused him to change his plans and return north. Making his way to Pittsburgh he found employment in a brewery. A year later he went to Stark county, Ohio, and for a time worked for a farmer near Canton. He then went to the village of Canal Fulton, where he clerked in a store until May, 1842, when he came to Akron. His first employment in this city was as clerk in the store of P. D. Hall, then the largest in the town. Later he opened a grocery store of his own and in 1845 built the first brewery in Summit county, operating both for ten years. He then sold the brewery, continuing the grocery until 1865. In March, 1850, in company with about forty other men, Mr. Good crossed the plains to the gold fields of California. He reached Placerville in August of the same year, and went to work in the gold mines at that point. Ill health caused him to leave the mines, and he engaged in the grocery and provision business at Placerville. He returned to Akron by way of the Panama route, and in 1865 purchased the oil refinery on Furnace street and formed the firm of John T. Good & Son, Charles W. being his partner, They enlarged the refinery until it had a daily capacity of two hundred fifty barrels. The firm was one of the very first to export oil from this country to Europe. This business was continued until 1872, when they sold it, and John T. Good retired to private life. On April 16, 1844, he married Barbara Yost, a native of Stark county, Ohio, and they became the parents of four sons and two daughters as follows: (1) Charles W. enlisted and served in the Civil war as a member of the One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment (the "Cleveland Greys") Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until honorably discharged. After the war he entered the employ of William Bingham & Company, wholesale hardware dealers of Cleveland. In 1869 he became a member of the firm of Reid, Good & Company, subsequently of McIntosh, Good & Company, which after various changes became that of the Lock: wood, Leutkemeyer & Henry Company of Cleveland. Later he sold his interests in the Cleveland business and became identified with the Henry Sears Cutlery Company of Chicago. He died on board ship off the port of Yokohama, Japan, in 1891, and was buried at sea. (2) Charlotte married Edward Schweyer of New York city. (3) John T., Jr., met death in a runaway accident when he was four years old. (4) George P., a mining and civil engineer, resides in Royal Oak, Michigan. (5) Louise died at 62 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY the age of nine years. (6) J. Edward, of this review, completes the family. John T. Good died in 1883 and his widow survived until 1896. The name of John T. Good appears on the bronze mounted granite boulder, standing in the courthouse yard, that was erected in 1925, "In respectful memory of the Akron industrial leaders of the past." J. Edward Good was reared in Akron and was graduated from Akron high school in 1879, concluding his education at Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio, and receiving his Ph. B. degree from that institution with the class of 1884. Throughout his entire business career he has been identified with the hardware trade, being first employed by the firm of McIntosh, Good & Company in Cleveland, where he remained until 1889. In that year he returned to Akron and was one of the organizers of the Paige Brothers Company, hardware dealers, of which he became vice president and secretary. This business was reorganized in 1891 and incorporated as The Standard Hardware Company, with Mr. Good as president. In 1905 it was merged with that of the Morgan & Bunnell Company, becoming the Hardware & Supply Company. Mr. Good was elected its first president and has ever since occupied this executive position. The company handles mill supplies, automotive equipment, electrical and plumbing supplies and builders hardware. Its trade covers much of Ohio, and it ranks with the leading houses in its line in this section of the country. Mr. Good has other important interests and has long been regarded as one of Akron's strong and able business men. Though attending assiduously and successfully to private business he has found time to discharge his obligations as a citizen and has taken a deep interest in civic affairs. Suggested for office more than once, he has served his city as a private citizen but with a public spirit as disinterested and devoted as that of any official and has done his full share in the upbuilding of Akron and her institutions. He is a member of various social, fraternal and civic organizations, including the Portage Country Club, the Akron City Club, the University Club, of which he has been president, the Rotary Club, of which he is now president, and the Masonic Club. During his college days he became a member of the Beta Theta Pi, of which he was a trustee, 1895-97, and the Theta Nu Epsilon fraternities, and was largely instrumental in bringing the latter fraternity west of the Allegheny mountains. AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 63 He is a thirty-second degree Mason, a member of Adoniram Lodge; Cleveland Chapter, Cleveland; Holyrood Commandery, Knights Templar; Lake Erie Consistory, A. S. S. R. and Tadmor Temple of the Mystic Shrine. Mr. Good's interest in educational affairs has never ceased, and he is now a member of the board of trustees of Kenyon College. His cooperation can be always counted upon to further any project that will assist the youth to properly take up the responsibilities of manhood, or will make for honorable citizenship. He was the president of the Akron Boy Scouts Council and afterward a member of the regional executive committee of the Fourth Region, Boy Scouts of America. He was the first president of the Better Akron Federation and in 1912-13 was president of the Akron Chamber of Commerce. He has been an earnest advocate of military discipline for boys in high school under the instruction of retired army officers, and has favored uniform dress for both boys and girls in high school. He has ever believed in clean sports and healthful out-of-door life, realizing their full value in physical, mental and moral advancement. He has himself participated in various outdoor sports and is an enthusiastic golfer, which fact, no doubt, had more than a little to do with his giving to Akron a municipal golf course in the donation of a farm of one hundred and eighty acres, long the property of the Good family and now within the limits of the city. In fact it can be reached in a ten-minute street car ride from Akron's business center. The gift was made in June, 1924, the tract to be used as a municipal golf course and for other recreational and educational purposes and to be known as the J. Edward Good Park. In this connection the Akron Press said: "In addition to this $100,000 worth of land, Mr. Good offers the city a beauty spot, a place where the working man can get recreation, the youngster can play in safety, where the mother can take her children, and where all the city can get close to nature. Mr. Good's gift is an outstanding contribution to the city's welfare." The value of Mr. Good's gift can scarcely be overestimated, for unlike a building that will deteriorate this magnificent property will increase in value and attractiveness and coming generations will enjoy its recreational features more and more. In 1889, Mr. Good was married to Miss Laura D. Zimmerman, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Good was a daughter of Paul Zimmerman, who was an outstanding figure in Pittsburgh's music circles as a result of his active interest in the de- 64 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY velopment of both vocal and instrumental music in that city. He was a charter member of the Gounod and the Mozart Clubs of Pittsburgh and took a foremost part in the work of those organizations up to the time of his death. Philip Zimmerman, the father of Paul Zimmerman, was a native of Switzerland, going from that country to Germany, where he was a minister of the gospel. He was forced to leave the latter country on account of his religious views. Edward Dithridge, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Good, was born on the Isle of Wight, England, and on coming to America located in Pittsburgh, where he manufactured the first flint glass lamp-chimneys ever made in the United States. Dithridge street in Pittsburgh was named in his honor. He was succeeded in business by his son-in-law, Paul Zimmerman, who carried on the business until his death. This enterprise later became the Pittsburgh Lamp, Brass & Glass Company. Mrs. Good's death occurred September 29, 1924, and was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. She possessed unusual talents and for many years was prominent in connection with dramatic, musical and social affairs in Akron. She was the mother of two daughters : Harriet Dithridge, who married Richard W. Brouse, November 17, 1914, and has two sons, Richard W. Brouse, Jr., born in Buffalo, New York, July 12, 1918, and Edward Good Brouse, born March 14, 1920, in Buffalo. Richard W. Brouse is the head of the Richard W. Brouse Company, distributors of Pierce Arrow and Jordan motor cars in Akron. Miriam, the younger daughter, is now the wife of Fred W. Lohmann, assistant sales manager of the Miller Rubber Company. Mr. Good's second marriage was with Mrs. May Weld, the widow of James H. Weld. J. Edward Good is a remarkably well preserved man, and his activity and keen interest in business and civic affairs shows no letup whatever. The subjective and objective forces in his life are well balanced, making him cognizant of his capabilities and powers. To make his native talents subserve the demands which conditions of society impose at the present time is the purpose of his life, and he stands as a splendid representative of the type of a man to whom business is but one phase of life and does not exclude his active participation in and support of the other vital interests which go to make up human existence. His well rounded nature unites the refinements of life with the sterner qualities of manhood and his efforts are resultant factors in everything he undertakes. Genial and optimistic by nature, he AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 65 extracts from life the real essence of living and enjoys to the fullest extent the esteem and respect of his fellow citizens, for honorable principles have guided him at all times in his career. Mr. Good's residence is at 402 Merriman road. FRANK MONROE WHITNER There was nothing spectacular in the life record of Frank Monroe Whitner, but at all times he was characterized by a firm purpose that resulted in steady advancement in business and in loyalty to any interest which he espoused. He therefore commanded the respect and confidence of those with whom he was associated and deep regret was felt when he passed from this life. His birth occurred at Copley Center, Summit county, February 7, 1868, but when he was only two years of age his parents removed with the family to New Portage and afterward settled on a farm near Chardon, in Geauga county, there residing from the fall of 1881 until the 5th of March, 1887, when the family home was established in Akron. The public school system of Ohio accorded Frank M. Whitner his educational opportunities and he initiated his business career as a clerk in a store, being thus employed until July, 1891, when he entered the office of Kubler & Beck as a bookkeeper. His capability and fidelity won him promotion and he successively served as assistant treasurer, as secretary and assistant treasurer and as secretary and treasurer, while subsequently he filled the offices of vice president and treasurer. The Akron Varnish Company was formed in March, 1920, by a combination of the firm of Kubler & Beck and the Imperial Varnish Company, Mr. Whitner subsequently becoming president and treasurer. He continued as the chief executive officer until July 1, 1925, when he resigned on account of ill health. He had long been active in the upbuilding of the business, making it one of the important commercial interests of the city, and in its management had shown sound judgment, keen discrimination and broad vision. On the 19th of August, 1891, Mr. Whitner was married to Miss Clara May Fraunfelter, a daughter of Elias and Laura C. (Caldwell) Fraunfelter. For ten years her father was professor of mathematics at Buchtel College and later, for fourteen years, superintendent of the Akron schools. Fraunfelter school 66 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY in Akron was named in his honor. Mr. and Mrs. Whitner became the parents of a daughter, Lucile Katharine, who is now Mrs. Norman R. Orcutt and the mother of two children, Madeline Lucile and Frank Whitner. Mr. Whitner was a member of the Akron Chamber of Commerce and of the Rotary Club and took helpful interest in all projects and plans for the benefit and improvement of the city but never sought to figure prominently in public life, preferring the quiet retirement and enjoyment of his home. He was a member of the Fairlawn Heights Golf Club and the Akron French River Club and he found his recreation in fishing in Canada and in motoring. For thirty-eight years he lived in Akron and the respect, confidence and good will of all who knew him was freely accorded him, for at all times he lived in harmony with his professions as a member of the Church of Our Saviour. His sterling character was acknowledged by those with whom he came in contact, and his circle of friends was almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance. He passed away on the 4th of January, 1926. SAMUEL FREDERICK ZILIOX Among the outstanding business enterprises of Akron is the Commercial Printing & Lithographing Company, of which Samuel F. Ziliox is the president and chief executive. In this connection he has developed a business hardly equaled in extent and importance by any in its line throughout the entire state and yet this does not limit the scope of his activities, for he is financially and officially interested in several other concerns which contribute to the growth and improvement of Akron. In all business affairs he has proven a man of keen insight and broad vision, and each forward step in his career has brought him larger opportunities which he has eagerly utilized. Mr. Ziliox is one of Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Millville, Butler county, February 24, 1864. His parents, Jacob and Catherine (Risch) Ziliox, were natives of Germany and in early life came to the new world, the father crossing the Atlantic when a youth of fifteen, while the mother made the voyage when a very young girl. Both have now passed away, and of their nine children only five are yet living, namely : Mrs. AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 69 Clayton Leiter, of Hamilton, Ohio; Mrs. Earl Nutt, living in Edmonds, Washington; Margaret and Florence, both of Hamilton; and Samuel F. Samuel F. Ziliox was a pupil in the public schools of Hamilton, Ohio, until fifteen years of age, when he started out in the business world is a printer's devil. He devoted fifteen years to mastering and working at the trade, during which time he carefully saved his earnings until his industry and economy had brought him sufficient capital to enable him to establish business on his own account. It was then that he organized what is now the Commercial Printing & Lithographing Company, of which he has been president since 1903. His initial experience came to him in the printing office of Jacob H. Long in Hamilton, Ohio, and after a few years he went to Urbana, Ohio, where he worked for a brief period. He then returned to Hamilton and became manager of the Butler County Democrat, which position he occupied until 1889, after which he was employed on the St. Louis Chronicle. Later he was with the Laning Printing Company of Norwalk, Ohio, and in February, 1891, he came to Akron, where he accepted the position of foreman of the typesetting department of the Akron Printing & Publishing Company. He served in that capacity for several years and then, as stated, joined others in organizing the Commercial Printing Company, which conducted its interests under a partnership relation from 1896 until 1899, when articles of incorporation were taken out. In 1916 a lithographing department was added, at which time the present name of the Commercial Printing & Lithographing Company was assumed. Mr. Ziliox has been the head of this enterprise from its inception and its president since it has been a corporation. He has done much to extend the trade relations of the house, which has never lowered its standard of efficient service or excellence in its work, and thus it is that the business of the company has grown to one of extensive proportions, o'ertopping almost every other enterprise of similar character in the state. Mr. Ziliox has also become actively interested in other business affairs of importance. He is vice president and a director of the First Trust & Savings Bank; vice president and a director the Akron Morris Plan Bank; one of the organizers and a director of the Society Savings & Loan Company and a director of General Batteries, Inc., of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Ziliox has been successful and for years has been regarded as one of Akron's strong and able business men. 70 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY On the 29th of June, 1904, Mr. Ziliox was united in marriage to Mrs. Kathryn (Rodefer) Aydelotte of Hamilton, Ohio, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Rodefer, prominent residents of Hamilton, where her father passed away at the venerable age of ninety years, having for sixty-eight years been an honored and leading member of the Masonic fraternity in this state. Mr. and Mrs. Ziliox have one son, Wade V. Aydelotte, who is connected with the management of the Commercial Printing & Lithographing Company. He married Miss Harriet Helen Loomis, of a prominent Akron family, and the youngest daughter of James P. and Adaline (Harris) Loomis. Mr. and Mrs. Aydelotte have a son and daughter both born in Akron : Frederick Loomis, born December 16, 1913, now a student at University School, Cleveland; and Barbara Adaline, born June 3, 1922, attending kindergarten in the Old Trail school. The religious faith of Mr. and Mrs. Ziliox is that of the Episcopal church, in which Mr. Ziliox is serving as vestryman. In community affairs he has taken a deep and helpful interest, standing for all that is worth while in connection with the city's progress and advancement. He was the fifth president of the Akron. Chamber of Commerce and the first chairman of the publicity committee of that organization when it was organized. His broad humanitarianism is manifest in many practical ways and he is constantly extending a helping hand to the unfortunate. He is president and member of the board of trustees of the Children's Hospital ; trustee of the Better Akron Federation and trustee of the Akron Better Business Bureau. In politics his support has always been given to the republican party in national affairs, except at one time when he voted for Grover Cleveland, while in local affairs it is a matter of selecting the candidate best fitted for the office regardless of party. While suggested for office more than once, he has served his city and his country only as a private citizen but with a public spirit as disinterested and devoted as that of any official. Mr. Ziliox is a member of the Akron City Club, was its first president and member of the board of directors who organized and successfully brought this club through its formative period; and a member of the Portage Country Club, of which he has been a director. He also belongs to the National Lithographers Association. His interests and his activities have thus touched life at many points and always with benefit, for his entire course has been actuated by a progressive spirit resulting in the successful AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 71 accomplishment of his purposes. He has ever recognized the obligations as well as the duties and privileges of citizenship and has ever fully met his responsibilities to his fellowmen. Mr. Ziliox is one of Akron's best known citizens and has hosts of friends. He is very democratic in manner, broad in his views, progressive in his standards and combines in his character those qualities which never fail to win respect and admiration. Optimistic by nature he extracts from life the real essence of living. Since 1908, Mr. Ziliox has resided at 69 Edgerton road, erecting his home there during the early development of that residential section. ELLSWORTH FISHER CRITES Ellsworth Fisher Crites has for over twenty years been actively identified with the banking interests of Barberton and, as president of the People's Savings & Banking Company, has been a prominent factor in the business life of his community. Mr. Crites was born on his grandfather's farm in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, on the 29th of August, 1874, and is a son of Alfred and Barbara Ellen (Fisher) Crites, the former now living at Canton, Ohio, the mother being deceased. Mr. Crites attended the public and high schools at Beach City, Ohio, and completed his educational training in Valparaiso University, at Valparaiso, Indiana. He then taught school for nine years, ending his service in this profession at Kenmore, Summit county, where he was the first superintendent of schools. Coming then to Barberton, he became assistant secretary and treasurer of the Peoples Savings & Banking Company, which was organized in the year of his arrival, 1906, and which is now the People's Savings & Banking Company. Subsequently he became secretary and treasurer of the company and on January 1, 1926, was elected president of the bank. He has during all the years of his connection with this institution devoted himself tirelessly to its interests and has earned a high reputation as an able and successful banker. Mr. Crites is also president of the A. A. Moore Company, and a director of the Great Northern Building and Loan Company, the Barberton Mortgage and Securities Company and the Thomas Title & Mortgage Company. On July 20, 1898, Mr. Crites was united in marriage to Miss 72 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Mildred Coover, of Bourneville, Ross county, Ohio. In his political views he is a stanch republican, while his religious connection is with the United Brethren church. He is a Mason, having attained the rank of Knight Templar, and belongs to the Mystic Shrine. He has membership in the Brookside Country Club, is a charter member of the Rotary Club, of which he is a past president, is a director of the Chamber of Commerce, and is vice president of the board of trustees of Otterbein College. Because of his splendid record as a financier he has long been prominent in the banking circles of this state, while in his own community no man commands to a greater degree than he the unreserved confidence and respect of his fellow men. CARL FERDINAND BECK Carl Ferdinand Beck, vice president and general manager of the Akron Varnish Company, is directing one of the city's important industries and the pioneer manufacturing enterprise of this character in this section of the state. Mr. Beck is a native son of Akron, and was born June 8, 1885, his parents being J. Martin and Kate J. (Buchtel) Beck. The Beck family is one of the older ones of Summit county and dates back to 1861, when Adam Beck, the father of J. Martin, brought his family from Germany and settled on a farm in Springfield township. Adam Beck later removed to Akron where both he and his wife, whose maiden name was Christina Hoefer, passed away. J. Martin Beck was born October 14th, 1843, in the town of Selb, Bavaria, Germany, and was serving as an apprentice in a wholesale grocery house in Hof, Germany, at the time his parents left for the United States. He remained in Germany until one year later, in order to complete his apprenticeship, then followed the family to this country, coming direct to Akron. Here he was first employed as a clerk for M. W. Henry & Company, then went to Cleveland, being employed in a similar capacity by the dry goods store of E. T. Baldwin and Company of that city. Later Mr. Beck returned to Akron and became one of the organizers of the dry goods firm of Wolf, Church & Beck, continuing in that connection until 1878 when he withdrew from the firm. It was about this time that Edward George Kubler, brought to Akron from Germany, a secret formula for making black baking AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 73 japan, which was far superior to anything of that character then made in this country. The Akron Varnish Company was organized in 1878, by Edward George Kubler and J. Martin Beck, to utilize this formula and were the first varnish manufacturers in Summit county. In 1897 the business was consolidated with the Imperial Varnish Company, J. Martin Beck becoming vice president and general manager, so continuing until 1908 when he became president, remaining the executive head of the business until his death in 1921. Mr. Beck was survived by his widow, who previous to her marriage on January 12, 1871, was Miss Kate J. Buchtel, a daughter of William Buchtel, of Akron. Mr. and Mrs. Beck were the parents of four sons and a daughter: William B., president of the Akron Varnish Company; Edward M., deceased, was prominently identified with the Akron Varnish Company and for several years directed its affairs. He was regarded as one of the very able men in the varnish industry, being the discoverer of certain processes that are now universally used in varnish manufacturing. Martha B., now Mrs. George H. Walker, of Canton, Ohio; John R., deceased; and Carl F. Mr. J. Martin Beck had various business interests aside from the Akron Varnish Company, among them being the King Lumber Company of Canton, of which he was president, president of the Portage Engineering Company, vice president of the Baker, McMillen Company, and a director of the Rubber City Savings Bank. He belonged to the Odd Fellows for fifty-five years and was also a member of the Elks. He was regarded as one of Akron's most substantial business men and no man in the city stood higher in public esteem. Carl F. Beck attended Central high school, completing his education at Case School of Applied Science, in Cleveland, receiving his degree of B. S. with the class of 1908. Mr. Beck for several years was located in Montana, in the employ of the Northern Pacific Railroad Company as a land examiner. Returning to Akron he organized the Portage Engineering Company, with which he was connected until 1916, when he was appointed public service director of Akron. Mr. Beck served in that capacity for two years, then became interested in the Akron Varnish Company of which he has since been vice president and general manager. This is one of the old and highly successful industrial concerns in Akron, and enjoys a national reputation for its high grade product. While the company was successful from the start 74 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Its greatest impetus to growth and expansion came with the advent of the bicycle and automobile. Only two concerns in the country were then making the Japan finish that set off metal parts on cars. The Pierce-Arrow and Packard Automobile companies became outstanding accounts with the Akron Varnish Company and still use their products exclusively. The Burroughs Adding Machine Company is another account of twenty-five years' standing. In order to take care of its rapidly growing business, the company established in 1919 a plant in Detroit. It also entered the business of paint manufacturing and has also become a factor in that industry. Among his other business interests, Mr. Beck is president of the Mohawk Building Company and a director of the Good Allotment Company. In 1911 Mr. Beck was united in marriage to Miss Imogene Francis Connor, a daughter of Dr. William B. and Virginia (Bartlett) Connor. Mr. Beck has two sons: William Martin, born October 14, 1913, and Carl F., Jr., April 1, 1915, both born at the family home at 58 Dodge avenue, Akron, Ohio. Mr. Beck is a Mason and his religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Congregational church. He belongs to the Akron Chamber of Commerce and is helpfully interested in every project and measure of that organization to further the public welfare. He also belongs to the National Varnish Manufacturers Association and the Cleveland Paint Club and he has membership in the Akron Rotary Club, the Akron City Club, the Portage Country Club, the Turkey Foot Lake Club and the Akron Automobile Club. He is appreciative of the social amenities of life, is a genial, companionable gentleman and a loyal friend. In politics he is a republican. Mayor of Akron in 1920 and 1921, he filled that office most acceptably. CHARLES WILLARD SEIBERLING Charles Willard Seiberling, vice president and one of the founders of the Seiberling Rubber Company, has for almost a third of a century been identified with the rubber industry and has attained a position of more than national prominence in his line of activity. He was born on the Seiberling homestead in Norton township, Summit county, Ohio, January 26, 1861, the second son and third child of his parents, John Frederick and Catherine L. (Miller) Seiberling. (An extended mention of John F. Seiber- AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 77 ling will be found on another page of this work.) Charles W. Seiberling was but a youngster of five years when his parents removed to Akron and in this city he received his early education. He entered Oberlin College in 1878, taking an elective course during his two years of college work. A business rather than a professional career appealing to him, he entered his father's agricultural implement factory and was but nineteen when he was made a foreman. When the J. F. Seiberling Company was organized in 1884 he became a director and subsequently was made superintendent of the works. In 1896 he was associated with his father in the organization of the India Rubber Company and for the next two years was its secretary. In 1898 he became identified with the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as its secretary and in October, 1906, was made treasurer, while in February, 1909, he was elected to the vice presidency. In 1922 he resigned this position and withdrew from the Goodyear Company, while later he became vice president and manager of purchases of the newly organized Seiberling Rubber Company with plants in Barberton, Ohio, and New Castle, Pennsylvania. The rapid growth and development of the Seiberling Rubber Company is an outstanding achievement in the rubber industry during the past few years. Further mention of the Seiberling Rubber Company is made elsewhere in this work. A connection of almost a third of a century with the rubber industry enables Charles W. Seiberling to speak with authority upon its every phase and in this connection he occupies a position of international prominence. On the 18th of November, 1895, Mr. Seiberling was married to Miss Blanche Carnahan of a prominent Findlay, Ohio, family and a daughter of Theophilus and Mary Orcelia (Peet) Carnahan. Mr. and Mrs. Seiberling are the parents of three sons and a daughter : Charles Willard, Jr., the eldest son, was a sergeant in the Three Hundred and Thirty-second Infantry, which was one of the two American regiments on the Italian front in the World war. He was identified with the Seiberling Rubber Company and was one of the best known of Akron's younger business men. His death occurred March 5, 1928. The other members of the family are Theophilus C., Lucius M. and Catherine M. Among his other business connections Mr. Seiberling is a director of the National City Bank, the Macedonia-Northfield Banking Company, the Akron Rubber Reclaiming Company, the 78 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Citizens Building & Loan Company, and president of the Thomas Phillips Company and of the Seiberling Latex Products Company. Despite his busy industrial career, he has found time to participate and assist in more community projects and civic activities than any other citizen in Akron. He is either an officer or member of the board of directors of every public service organization in the city. He is president of the Akron Chapter of the National Aeronautic Association, president of the Akron University Endowment Association, vice president and director of the Akron City Club, trustee of the Akron Children's Hospital, trustee of Barberton Citizens Hospital, trustee of the Young Women's Christian Association, trustee of Akron Colored Community Service League, trustee of Better Akron Federation, trustee and treasurer of Springfield Lake Tuberculosis Sanatorium, member of Summit County Girl Scout Council, member of Akron Area Council of Boy Scouts, former president of the Akron Rotary Club, member of advisory board of Children's Home, member of advisory campaign committee of City Hospital. One of his most recent outstanding activities was as manager of the successful campaign for funds to build a new Children's Hospital. He is a member of the Barberton Chamber of Commerce, a past president of the Akron Chamber of Commerce, a member of the United States Chamber of Commerce and also of various organizations of a purely social character, including the Ohio Society of New York, the Portage Country Club, the City Club of Akron, the Fairlawn Golf Club, the Congress Lake Club, the University Club, the Mayfield Country Club of Cleveland, and the Rotary Club of Akron. In his political affiliation Mr. Seiberling has been a republican ever since casting his first vote in 1882, and while never an office seeker, has always taken a keen and helpful interest in the party's success. In June, 1928, he was a delegate from the fourteenth Ohio congressional district to the republican national convention at Kansas City, when Herbert Hoover was nominated for the presidency. Mr. Seiberling has been called the most popular Akronite and is known to more Akron people than any other man in the city. His friends are legion and many of his warmest ones have known him from boyhood. His estimate of friendship is reflected in a talk given before the Akron Kiwanis Club in April, 1928, under the topic, "The Dollar Value of Friendship." Mr. Seiberling began this talk by saying that there was no possible estimate of true friendship in dollar value and later said in part : "The true AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 79 goal in life is not millions, but contentment and happiness. The way to make yourself happy is to help make someone else happy. All of the money in the world will not bring contentment to its owner if he is selfish and fails to make lighter the burdens of those around him." The family has always taken a prominent part in the city's social and civic activities. In 1908 Mrs. Seiberling organized the Akron Woman's Home School League, which has now extended to many other states and was probably the first organization of its kind in the United States. Mr. Seiberling stands as one of the strong men of Akron, strong in his ability to plan and perform, ready to accomplish things for the public good and looking at each question from the standpoint of the liberal-minded man of broad experience. His most striking personal characteristics are his sincerity, his simplicity of manner, his democratic spirit and his broad sympathy for and understanding of the people. JOSEPH THOMAS Joseph Thomas, one of the best known of the younger members of the Summit county bar, has been successfully engaged in practice here ever since entering on the active practice of his profession. Born in this city, January 29, 1893, he is a son of Joseph D. and Jennie M. (Daly) Thomas, who are also natives of Ohio, the former being born in Thomastown, and the latter in Warren, Ohio. They have always resided within the borders of this state, and the father was for many years a well known figure in connection with county affairs. For an extended period he served as treasurer of Summit county, his capability and efficiency in office bringing about frequent reelections. He is now president of the Lincoln Printing Company and has been for many years the head of the Amateur Athletic Association of Akron. To him and his wife have been born eight children and this is a notable family record inasmuch as the family circle yet remains unbroken by the hand of death. The sons and daughters are Raymond, Russell, John, Forest; Joseph, Mrs. Alice Brown, Mildred and Marion, all residents of Akron. Joseph Thomas was graduated from the city high school at the age of seventeen years and received his Bachelor of Philosophy degree from Buchtel College with the class of 1915. He 80 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY then entered the Ohio State University as a law student and won his degree in 1917. He at once entered upon the active work of his profession and is now engaged in law practice with the Hon. C. R. Grant, one of the most highly honored and respected members of the Ohio bar. The firm is Grant, Thomas & Buckingham, and ranks among the leading law firms of Akron. Its extensive clientele has connected it with many of the important cases tried in the courts of district and state. Mr. Thomas has ever displayed that thoroughness which makes for success at the bar and is accorded a most creditable position among the able lawyers of Akron. He has membership in the Summit County, Ohio State and American. Bar Associations. Among his business interests outside of his profession, he is a director of the Equity Savings Company. On the 25th of May, 1918, Mr. Thomas was married to Miss Laura G. Sturdevant, of Linesville, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Dr. and Mrs. H. C. Sturdevant, the former a prominent dentist. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have one son, Charles Grant, born in Akron, April 21, 1921. When America entered the World war Mr. Thomas enlisted at Akron and saw overseas service for a year, being discharged as sergeant at Camp Sherman in 1919. He is president of the Alumni Association of the University of Akron and is well known in fraternal circles. He belongs to the Masonic order, the Mystic Shrine and the Grotto and in the last named is an official. He is also on the official roster of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He belongs to the First Methodist church, where he teaches a class of boys, and his life has at all times been actuated by high and honorable principles which have given him prestige as a citizen, as a lawyer and as a friend. JACOB ABENDSHINE The life history of Jacob Abendshine indicates what can be accomplished through persistent effort. Willingness to do always brings about easier Ways, and though difficulties and obstacles will ever be encountered in the conduct of business, these may be overcome by determination and energy when intelligently and honorably directed. Such has been the record of Jacob Abend-shine, and while he has attained a notable measure of success in AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 81 business, he has contributed in large measure to the wonderful expansion and growth of Akron, where he is now conducting business as president of the Lyman-Hawkins Lumber Company —a corporate interest that has figured in the history of commercial development here since 1908. Mr. Abendshine was born in Stark county, Ohio, September 13, 1859, and is a son of John and Magdelina (Haas) Abend-shine, both of whom were natives of Germany, whence they came to America in the early '40s, making their way to Stark county, Ohio, where they settled upon a farm, the father devoting his entire life to agricultural pursuits. His wife passed away in 1873, but the father long survived, reached the advanced age of eighty-six years ere death claimed him in 1906. In their family were four children who reached the adult age, but Jacob is the only one now surviving. The others were : John, Mrs. Katherine Bare, and Mrs. Susan Steece. In his youthful days Jacob Abendshine attended the country schools of Stark county and when not busy with his textbooks gave his time and attention to the farm work, for at an early age he learned how to till the soil, care for the crops and perform other service necessary in the development and improvement of the old homestead. In 1875, however, he left home and came to Akron in 1877. His cash capital was very limited, necessitating that he find immediate employment, and after a brief interval he secured a job with W. B. Boyle, a lumber dealer on Main and Howard streets. There he remained, doing manual labor and acquainting himself with the lumber trade through a period of eight years. He then left that employ and entered the lumberyard of A. A. Bartlett, with whom he continued for five years. His next employment was with the Jackson & Lyman Lumber Company, in whose service he remained for eight years. He was next associated with the Akron Lumber Company through a period of eleven years, and always he worked with the view of making progress and ultimately engaging in business on his own account. Every change marked a forward step in his business career and following his association with the Akron Lumber Company he became identified with the Lyman-Hawkins Lumber Company, which was organized in 1908, being composed of four practical lumbermen who took control, A. E. Lyman becoming general manager, A. W. Hawkins president of the company, H. H. Giesy the buyer and Jacob Abenshine the manager of the planing mill. Each was well qualified for the particular duties 82 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY which he assumed and each bent his energies to the development and successful control of the business of which he had charge. Changes occurred in the official personnel and in 1921 Mr. Abend-shine was called to the presidency of what is today one of the foremost lumber companies of the state. Millions of feet of lumber are piled in its yards, its closed sheds and bins, every stick being carefully placed. Its plant is splendidly equipped with machinery, and skilled men finish the task begun by the machines. In purchasing the lumber the utmost care is used to secure only standard grades, and all hardwood is kiln dried. On the 28th of December, 1880, Mr. Abendshine was united in marriage to Miss Anna Vickel, who was born in Akron, a daughter of Simon and Susan Vickel, of one of the early families of this city. Mr. Abendshine was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife in May, 1922, and at her death she left three children. The elder daughter, Mrs. Esther Leatherman, who was born in Akron, passed away in 1923, leaving one child, Iva, born in Akron, in. May, 1912. Irene Abendshine, who was graduated from the Akron high school, is now a domestic science teacher in Bowen school here. Wade, born in Akron in 1886 and now with the Lyman-Hawkins Lumber Company, married Miss Bessie Sullivan, of Akron. Since 1892 Mr. Abendshine has resided at 204 West Cedar street. Mr. Abendshine belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Akron Liedertofel, the Protective Home Circle, the Akron Automobile Club and the Grace Reformed church. He has led an active and useful life characterized by devotion to high standards, whether in business or in other relations, and he commands and enjoys the respect, good will and confidence of all who know him. JOHN KERCH Though difficulties and obstacles frequently arise in the business world, they can be met and overcome by determined and persistent effort, and intricate problems may be readily solved by close application, earnest thought and unfaltering purpose. That these truths have found recognition in the career of John Kerch is manifest in the success which has attended him, converting the farm boy of sixty-five years ago into a strong business executive —strong in his ability to plan and perform, strong in his honor AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 85 and good name. The years have brought him not only prosperity but also that leisure which has enabled him to travel broadly and gain first-hand knowledge of the world. His birthplace was a log cabin on a farm in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, not far from the town of Zoar, his natal day being February 18, 1855. His father, John Kerch, Sr., was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1818 and in young manhood accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States, the family home being established in Stark county, Ohio, where John Kerch, Sr., resided for a number of years. It was during that period that he married Johanna Spath, whose birth occurred in Saxony, Germany, in 1819, and who in early womanhood came to the United States, remaining a resident of Ohio until her death. Subsequent to his marriage John Kerch, Sr., established his home in Tuscarawas county, where he followed his trade of a brick and stone mason for a number of years, and while still thus engaged he purchased and cultivated a farm near Zoar, where he lived until his death in 1881. The death of his widow occurred in 1899 at Columbus, Ohio. They were the parents of eight children, of whom four are yet living : John and H. W., who are residents of Akron; Fredericka, the widow of E. E. Rice, of Marion, Indiana; and Anna, the widow of John H. Dager, residing in Canton, Ohio. Life's pathway was not strewn with roses for John Kerch, Jr. In his youthful days he worked in the fields when not busy with school duties and he walked two miles to and from school. In vacation periods his time was almost entirely given to work on the farm, also assisting his father at the brick and stone mason's trade. It was in 1873 when about eighteen, that John Kerch left home and went to Canal Dover, where he learned the tinner's trade, working at a salary of eight dollars per month for the first year, twelve dollars per month for the second year and sixteen dollars for the third year. At the end of his term of indenture he was three hundred dollars in debt. When he had completed his apprenticeship as a tinner he worked as a journeyman until the fall of 1878, and then, borrowing some money of his father, established business on his own account by opening a store in Canal Dover, where he handled stoves and tinware as well as doing work as a tinsmith, and in 1879 began furnace installation. He remained in business there until 1901 and long prior to that time he had paid off all indebtedness and had placed his business upon a profitable basis. In 1894 he had become financially interested in the firm of Clerkin & Maag, the manufacturers of 86 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY the Twentieth Century furnace at Akron, and for nine years while still owning his store in Canal Dover he traveled for the Akron establishment, selling its furnaces and other products. In 1907 he purchased the interest of Mr. Clerkin and took active charge of the business at Akron, the Twentieth Century Heating and Ventilating Company being organized in 1902 to take over the interests of the old firm. Since its organization Mr. Kerch has been president of the company and on coming to Akron in 1907, he assumed control as general manager. Although the business was started on a small scale, it is now one of the best known in the county in its line, and its success is due in no inconsiderable measure to the efforts and able direction of Mr. Kerch, resulting from his broad experience as a tradesman and as a merchant, combined with a spirit of enterprise that recognizes no such word as fail. Mr. Kerch's business interests are varied and extensive and affect the financial, industrial, building and real estate development of Akron. For more than thirty years he has been identified with banking interests, as while residing in Canal Dover he was one of the original board of directors of the State Savings Bank of that city. At the time of his coming to Akron he became identified with what was then the Commercial Savings Bank, which began business on January 4, 1908, and in 1916 became the Commercial Savings & Trust Company. Mr. Kerch was the first president of this institution and still holds that office, having been elected the twenty-first consecutive time. This continuous service as the executive head of a bank is without a parallel in the history of Akron's financial institutions. Mr. Kerch is also a director of the Medina Savings & Loan Company; president of the Akron Commercial Building Company; president of the Home Buyers Realty Company; and president of the Akron Commercial Securities Company. His sound business judgment is regarded as a valuable element in the successful conduct of every undertaking. On the 20th of July, 1887, Mr. Kerch was united in marriage to Miss Frances E. Garver, a daughter of Philip A. and Frances (Kapitzka) Garver, of Strasburg, Ohio. Mrs. Kerch is a sister of the Garver Brothers, of Strasburg, nationally known as operating the largest country store in the United States. Mr. and Mrs. Kerch have a son and two daughters all born at Canal Dover, Ohio : Frances was educated at Vassar. J. Garver was educated in the University of Wisconsin, and since entering on his business AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 87 career has been identified with the Twentieth Century Heating & Ventilating Company, being now secretary of that corporation. He married Miss Bonnie Cartwright, of Akron. Hazel, who was educated in the University of Akron, is the wife of C. A. Pfahl of Akron, and has two sons, C. A., Jr., and John Kerch Pfahl. Mr. Kerch is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Akron Commandery, and is also a member of the Mystic Shrine. He is a member of the Akron Chamber of Commerce and a member and trustee of Trinity Lutheran church; chairman of the Men's Bible class, and for a number of years served as president of the Brotherhood Society. He belongs to the Exchange Club, the Portage Country Club, the Union Country Club of Dover and to the Akron Automobile Club, and he has a circle of friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance. The steps in his orderly progression are easily discernible, for throughout his entire life he has made good use of his opportunities and has worked his way upward wisely and well. Mr. and Mrs. Kerch have traveled extensively, having visited nearly every inhabited country on the globe. In 1925 they took a trip around the world which consumed five and one-half months, for they visited both the occident and the orient, stopping in Australia, Tasmania, Turkey, China and Japan. In the summer of 1927 they sojourned in Iceland during the perpetual daylight period when the sun never set, although, as Mr. Kerch expressed it, they saw real midnight sun only one hour, as the sun passed from one day into the next. During the remainder of the five days above the Arctic circle the sky was constantly cloudy. Other interesting trips have taken them through Europe, the United States, Canada and Mexico, and they look forward to many more. It is a fact worthy of note that Mr. Kerch has visited every important exposition held in the United States including the year 1876, and his diary is replete with interesting stories of his experiences in all parts of the world. Gifted with a keen business insight and a broad grasp of affairs, Mr. Kerch has had a career of unusual activity and of notable success. A remarkably well preserved man, his native energy and push do not evidence the fact of his being in his seventy-fourth year. Long before the advent of the motor car, in the early '80s, Mr. Kerch was an expert amateur bicycle rider, riding a fifty-two inch high wheel and taking part in many road and track events, and he has quite a few gold medals as evidence of his skill and endurance as a bicyclist. He is an enthusiastic as 88 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY well as a pioneer motorist, buying his first automobile in 1906, and in the intervening years has owned eight different makes of cars, whose combined mileage is considerably more than a quarter of a million. Mr. Kerch has always driven his own cars. His identification with Akron's business interests dates back more than a third of a century, and his activities have been a material contribution to the city's growth and development. He has long been accorded a foremost position among its strong and able business men and highest type of citizenship. Mr. Kerch's residence for more than a decade has been at No. 39 North Portage Path. HARVEY A. FINEFROCK, M. D. Dr. Harvey A. Finefrock has long been recognized as one of the ablest and most successful physicians of Summit county and commands a large practice in and about Barberton, where he has also been prominent in civic affairs. The Doctor was born at Waynesburg, Stark county, Ohio, on the 17th of August, 1885, and is the thirteenth in order of birth of the fourteen children of Emanuel and Rebecca (Robertson) Finefrock, both of whom are deceased. All of the children, six sons and eight daughters, are living. Harvey A. Finefrock was educated in the public and high schools, after which he taught school for three years. Having determined to devote his life to the practice of medicine, he matriculated in the medical school of the University of Cincinnati, from which he was graduated with the M. D. degree in 1911. He served one year as interne in Christ Hospital, Cincinnati, and then located in Barberton, where he has since engaged in the practice of his profession. Combining high technical ability with broad human sympathy, he has dignified and honored his profession by his skillful and unselfish service, and his success has been commensurate with his efforts. The Doctor has also been successful in a material way and is a stockholder in the Summit Finance Company, of which he is president. In 1927 he built a fine, two-story brick building, in which is located the Chamber of Commerce, as well as his own office. On March 17, 1914, Doctor Finefrock was united in marriage to Miss Mabel K. Carbaugh, of Barberton, a native of Big Prairie, Ohio, and they are the parents of a son, Richard Har- AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 89 vey, born February 4, 1919, in Barberton. The Doctor has been a lifelong supporter of the republican party and has taken a keen interest in public affairs, having rendered effective service as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, in which he has received all the degrees of the York rite; the Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, the Rotary Club, the Brookside Country Club since its organization and the Chamber of Commerce, of which he is a director. His religious faith is that of the Lutheran church, to which he gives generous support, as he does also to all worthy causes. One of the world's workers, his life has been one of devotion to his calling and he merits a place of honor among those who have given the best of their powers for the betterment of their kind. WILLIAM JAMES O'NEIL William James O'Neil was numbered among those who developed and built up the rubber industry in Akron and thus contributed in large measure to the growth and progress of the city. As a business man he had the confidence and good will of his associates and his contemporaries, while in other walks of life he displayed the sterling traits of character that gained for him the high regard of many friends. He was a lifelong resident of Akron, where his birth occurred on the 16th of August, 1860, and his death on the 11th of February, 1921. His parents were Owen and Bridget O'Neil, early residents here, and while spending his youthful days under the parental roof William J. O'Neil pursued his education in St. Vincent's school and in the Hammel Business University, pursuing a commercial course that enabled him on putting aside his textbooks to secure a position as cashier and bookkeeper with Cyrus Miller, a grocer. Later he became identified with the Akron Wholesale Grocery Company and when he severed that connection he entered the employ of the B. F. Goodrich Company as bookkeeper, filling that position for six years, while for nine years he was cashier with that corporation. After tendering his resignation he organized the Akron Pneumatic Tire Company and engaged in the manufacture of pneumatic tires, the Greenwald extensible tread tire and the internal protector reinforced tube non-skid tread. This company also controlled the manufacture of the non-puncturable tire, one of the greatest in- 90 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY ventions known in connection with the automobile trade. In addition to manufacturing accessories for automobile tubes and interlinings he handled the Goodrich, Amazon and Goodyear tires. His first place of business was near Main and Exchange streets, whence later he removed to the Kohlke building on West Exchange and Water streets. He afterward erected a building on Bowery and Chestnut streets, converting it into a splendidly equipped plant in which he continued to control the trade of the Akron Pneumatic Tire Company until his death a little more than a year later. Mr. O'Neil was united in marriage November 4, 1909, to Catherine E. Tobin, of Akron, and they became the parents of three children : Mary Catherine, Eugene Joseph and William James. The elder son is pursuing a course in chemistry at University of Akron. The family residence at 1104 West Market street, was built by Mr. O'Neil in 1912, and was one of the first erected in that choice residential section. The religious faith of the family is that of St. Vincent's Catholic church, of which Mr. O'Neil was also a communicant. His political support was given to the republican party and he was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, which indicated his interest in community affairs, his aid being at all times given to those projects which he believed would benefit and improve the city. He never sought public preferment, but he was ever loyal to any interest or cause which he endorsed, and the sterling worth of his character was recognized by all with whom he came in contact. ALBERT REED HENRY For more than twenty-five years Albert R. Henry has been actively identified with the coal and ice business in Barberton and through his energetic methods and square dealing, has built up a large and prosperous trade. He was born in Butler, Butler county, Pennsylvania, on the 26th of March, 1866, and is a son of Milton and Margaret (Reed) Henry, the former of whom was a tradesman. Both parents are deceased, and three of their nine children have also passed away. Albert Reed Henry was educated in the public schools of New Castle, Pennsylvania, and after graduating from high school he went to work in a store in that city, and later accepted a position in the postoffice there. He subsequently entered the employ of AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 93 the James P. Witherow Engineering Company, which manufactured Stirling boilers, and in 1891 he came to Barberton with the superintendent of the boiler factory, who later was a member of the Babcock & Wilcox Manufacturing Company. In 1900 Mr. Henry and John Paul bought the coal business which had been established by the late Augustus F. Stuhldreher in 1891, and they conducted the business as Paul & Henry until 1916, in which year Mr. Henry bought his partner's interest and has since been alone. In 1907 the ice business was taken up, and this involved the building of an artificial ice plant. The business is now conducted under the name of the Henry Coal & Ice Company. Mr. Henry commands his full share of the local business in his line and is enjoying a well merited success. He is also president of the Tawney Ice Cream Company; is a director of the Central Savings and Trust Company of Akron; is a director of the Y. M. C. A.; one of the governors of the Brookside Country Club, of which he was a charter member; a director of the Barberton Masonic Temple Company; and a director of the Akron Rubber Reclaiming Company. On June 23, 1904, Mr. Henry was united in marriage to Miss Martha McMichael, of New Castle, Pennsylvania. He is a democrat in politics and is a Presbyterian in his religious faith. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity, being affiliated with all branches of the order; the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce. A man of strict integrity of motive and action, courteous and friendly in manner and intensely loyal to his community's best interests, he holds a high place in public regard and has worthily won the prosperity which is now his. In 1928 Mr. Henry completed his new home on North Third street, where he has since resided. EDWARD OTIS HANDY Edward Otis Handy, president of the Eaton-Handy-Harpham Company, is at the head of one of the leading corporations of its kind in Akron—dealers in real estate, insurance and bonds. Mr. Handy was born in Cleveland, Ohio, March 19, 1894, a son of Edward A. and Amy (Littlefield) Handy, both of whom were natives of Massachusetts, the father's birth having occurred in Barnstable, while the mother is a native of Milton. Edward A. Handy was a prominent railroad man and for a number of 4-VOL. 2 94 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY years was general manager of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad. His death occurred in 1906, at the age of fifty-five, while a resident of Cleveland. His widow resides in Barnstable, Massachusetts. Their family consists of two sons, one of whom, John Handy, lives in New York city. Edward Otis Handy attended the University school, in Cleveland, and Milton Academy, at Milton, Massachusetts, completing his education at Harvard University. During his college days, he was affiliated with the Digamma Club, the Iroquois Club, the D. K. E. the institute of 1770, and was also a member of the university football and hockey squads. Mr. Handy began his business career with the John Dunlap Company, conducting a sheet-steel enamel manufacturing business at Carnegie, Pennsylvania, where he remained for about six months. In 1913 he came to Akron, becoming associated with the Firestone Rubber Company. It was during this connection that Mr. Handy obtained his initial experience in handling real estate projects. He was made sales-manager for Firestone Park, a subdivision which was opened by the company for its employees, and his successful handling of this project led to his entering the real estate field on his own account. In 1916, he became a member of the firm of the Peters, Carpenter & Handy Company, dealers in real estate and investments. Later the business was reorganized under the name of the Akron Development Company and subsequently became the Eaton-Handy-Harpham Company. This company developed and put Fairlawn Heights on the market. This project involves one of the finest residential sections in Akron's entire suburban territory and has proven highly successful. Mr. Handy is president of the business organization and also secretary of the Fairlawn Heights Company. He has closely studied real estate conditions and is well informed as to trend and opportunity in realty circles. On the 2d of February, 1916, Mr. Handy was united in marriage to Miss Alice C. Saalfield, of Akron, a daughter of Arthur J. and Adah Louise (Sutton) Saalfield. Her father was president of the Saalfield Publishing Company of this city at the time of his death and his widow, who now resides in Akron, has gained fame as a writer, being the author of various works that are in wide circulation, including "Drummond Year Book," "Mr. Bunny, His Book," "Seeds of April's Sowing," "Sweeter Still Than This," "Teddy Bears," "Baby Dear," "Little Maid in Toy-land," "Peter Rabbit and His Pa," "Billy Possum," "Blossom Babies," "Cycle of Gems" and "Mushrooms Fairies." Mr. and AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 95 Mrs. Handy have a son and daughter, both born in Akron : John Robert, who was born December 9, 1916 ; and Sally Louise, born April 24, 1919. Mrs. Handy is well known in the social and art circles of the city and has been president of the St. Cecelia Music Club and a member of the board of directors of the Akron City Hospital, and the Junior League. Both Mr. and Mrs. Handy are members of the Episcopal church and Mr. Handy is identified with the Akron Chamber of Commerce. He is well known in club circles, being a member of the Portage Country Club, the Fairlawn Golf Club, the Akron City Club and has served on the board of governors of the Akron District Golf Association. He likewise belongs to the Canterbury Golf Club of Cleveland and has membership in the University club. Mr. Handy's residence is "Blue Hills," on Medino road, Copley, Ohio. GLENN HENRY SEELY Glenn Henry Seely, president of the Thermo Instrument Company has a record of successful achievement that marks a high standard of service in connection with the manufacture of steam specialties, recording and indicating instruments and temperature controllers. Mr. Seely was born in Columbus, Ohio, May 12, 1888. His father, Charles Seely, was born in Indiana, but has resided in the state of Ohio since boyhood. He has long been identified with foundry interests and is yet actively connected with the City of Columbus department of streets. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Alice Cass and was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, died in Columbus in 1919. They were the parents of five children : Albert, who is living in Columbus; Glenn H., of this review; George, who resides in Bedford, Ohio; Hazel, also of Columbus; and Mrs. Joe Egan, of Chicago. In his youthful days Glenn H. Seely was a pupil in the public schools of the capitol city and in early youth he began working in a foundry, where he remained for a year. On the expiration of that period he became an apprentice to the steamfitter's trade and completed his term of indenture in 1909. He then continued in that line as a journeyman steamfitter and plumber, being thus employed until he came to Arkon in 1912 as representative of the Evans & Almirell Company of New York city. He was chosen to take charge of and finish the contract work in connection with steamfitting and plumbing for the B. F. Goodrich Tire & Rubber 96 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Company in its office building. When this task was successfully completed he entered the engineering department of the Firestone Tire & Rubber Company, with which he remained from 1913 until 1916. In the latter year he established a plumbing and steamfitting business on his own account, taking up contract work, but in 1918 he sold out and removed to Bedford, Ohio, to engage in the building of the plant of the Owen Tire & Rubber Company at that place, completing his job there in 1919. He next engaged in sales promotion of steam specialties and the present business now conducted under the name of the Thermo Instrument Company is the outgrowth of this undertaking. The Thermo Instrument Company was established in 1923 and the present plant was built in 1925. Mr. Seely is the executive head of this corporation, which employs twelve expert instrument makers in connection with the manufacture of recording and indicating instruments and temperature controllers. In this line he is developing an important industry and contributing to Akron's industrial growth, likewise the diversity of the city's manufactured products. This is the only industry of its kind west of New York city, and one of four in all the United States. The product finds a market throughout the world. On the 24th of May, 1909, Mr. Seely was married to Miss Charlotte Connor, a daughter of Harry Connor, of Newark, Ohio. She is a member of the Christian Science church and he is a Knight Templar and Consistory Mason, identified also with the Grotto, the Shrine and the Masonic Club. He has largely confined his interests and activities to his business yet is neglectful of none of the obligations of life or its duties. He measures up to high standards of manhood and citizenship and deserves much credit for what he has accomplished, for his individual labors have been the basic element of his success. HERBERT L. FIRESTONE Among those who have firm faith in Akron and its future growth is Herbert L. Firestone, a real estate dealer, who has developed and handled various important allotments. Studying the trend of the times as manifest in real estate activity, he does not hesitate to link up his interests with those of the city and, moreover, his labors have been retroactive, contributing to public progress as well as to individual prosperity. He feels that AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY - 97 the intense industrial interests of Akron will make for continued development in the field of real estate and thus it is that he is finding scope for his efforts as a realtor. Mr. Firestone was born in North Canton, Ohio, December 15, 1880, and is a son of Henry C. and Minerva J. (Hostler) Firestone. The father was born in Pennsylvania and came to this state with his parents. Later he engaged in farming near North Canton and devoted the major part of his life to agricultural pursuits, but at the time of the Civil war put aside all business and personal considerations to join the federal army as a private soldier and aid in the defense of the Union. With the successful termination of the war he returned to his farm and thereon passed away in 1907. His wife, who was born near North Canton, is yet living, and of their fourteen children thirteen still survive, namely : John, Herbert L., Edson, Frederick, Ray, Lester, Mrs. Maude Killinger, Mrs. Dort Kettering, Mrs. Minnie Lowe, Emma, Susie, Ruth and Verla. Herbert L. Firestone was a pupil in the graded schools at Apple Grove, Ohio, and later attended school at McDonaldsville, this state, after which he entered business life by becoming identified with a mercantile project. He was thus employed for several years and while thus engaged devoted his time outside of the store to study. He pursued an International correspondence course and after he had given up his position took a course in the Alexander Hamilton Institute. He then became identified with the rubber industry as an employe of the B. F. Goodrich and of the Goodyear companies. Eventually, however, he withdrew from those lines and became identified with the International Correspondence Schools, devoting the ensuing three years to work of that character. During that period he became district manager, acting in that capacity about three years with headquarters at Lima, Ohio. In 1910 he turned his attention to real estate activity and has always specialized in handling subdivisions. He has since developed and sold to homeseekers the Spade property allotment, the East View, Bellview and Oak Hill allotments, the Maplehurst allotment, Garden Acres and still others. He is thoroughly conversant with realty conditions and values and in handling property in a judicious way has won for himself a very satisfactory measure of success. He belongs to the local real estate board and also to the state and national real estate boards. On the 6th of November, 1906, Mr. Firestone was married to Miss Margaret M. Williams, of Akron, daughter of Mrs. Thomas 98 - AKRON AND SUMMIT COUNTY Williams, and their four children are: Evelyn J., who was born in Akron, January 1, 1908, and since graduating from the West high school is studying in Wittenburg College; Josephine E., born in 1911; Robert Dodd, born July 19, 1915 ; and Rosemary, in 1919. In his fraternal relations Mr. Firestone is a Mason and loyally adheres to the teachings and purposes of the craft. He belongs to the City Club, the Automobile Club and the East Akron Board of Trade, while his interest in the moral progress of the community is shown in his support of all worthy movements. He and his wife attend the West Congregational church. The rules which have governed his conduct are such as will at all times bear the closest investigation and scrutiny, and an upright, honorable life has won for him the confidence and good will of those with whom he has been brought in contact. PATRICK T. McCOURT There are certain elements in the life of Patrick T. McCourt that have endeared him strongly to the citizens of Akron and there are none who stand higher in the estimation of their fellow citizens than he. His standards of life have been high. His activities have been well directed and honesty of purpose, combined with a gracious manner, has gained for him the respect and warm regard of all. Moreover, his entire career has been dominated by qualities which constitute an excellent example for others to follow, and his record should serve as an inspiration and a guide to the youth of the present day. Mr. McCourt was born February 18, 1860, his parents being John and Mary McCourt. The father, whose birth occurred in Ireland, came to New York in 1835 and then went to Canada, where he met and married Mary Murphy, a native of that country. In 1850 they moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where they remained one year, after which the father leased a hotel in Hudson, Ohio, in 1851. He conducted that hostelry successfully for a number of years, during which time he became an American citizen. He was finally compelled to retire on account of ill health and returned to Canada, where Patrick T. McCourt was born. In 1865 the family returned to Ohio and settled in Akron, where Mr. McCourt's first recollection of this city was seeing the soldiers coming home from the Civil war. The father passed away