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BATH TOWNSHIP.


JARED BARKER, Bath. Mr. Barker is one of the leading agriculturists and livestock dealers of Summit Co. He was born in Monroe Co., N. Y., Sept. 10, 1819. He is the son of Lanson and Betsey (Phelps) Barker, both of whom were natives of Connecticut. They were married in Pittsford, Monroe Co., N. Y. In 1827, Mr. Barker came to Ohio and purchased a tract of land in Holmes Co., and the year following came West with his family and stopped for a few weeks at Massillon. Ohio, and then moved to Granger, Medina Co., Ohio. He lived in Medina Co. some years, and then purchased a place in Royalton, Cuyahoga Co.. Ohio, upon which he resided for most part the remainder of his days. In his family were the following children, viz.: Roxie A., William, Jared, John, Lyman, Mary and Frances. He departed this life in 1855, and his wife in 1847. They were intelligent, Christian people, and had the respect of all who knew them. Jared Barker lived at home and assisted in the farm duties until 27 years of age. He was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor Munson Dec. 16. 1847. She was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Nov. 25, 1827. By this union there were two children, viz.: Mary E. and William. Mrs. Barker died Sept. 9, 1856. Soon after his marriage Mr. Barker came to Bath Township, and the year following purchased 300 acres of land, going in debt for nearly the entire amount. By hard work and economy he paid for this land, and has added to it, until he now owns over 500 acres. Upon his farm are five large barns which are very conveniently arranged, and afford shelter to a large number of live stock. Mr. Barker has made a specialty of wool-growing, and is one of the most successful and practical stock-growers in the county. He now has upon his place about eighty head of shorthorn cattle. A number of these are thoroughbred. and the rest good grade cattle. He also has upon his place some fine Clydesdale and English coach horses. Perhaps there is not a man in Summit Co. who owns more good stock of all kinds than Mr. Barker. He began as a poor boy, and is in the fullest sense of the word a selfmade man. He is of a retiring disposition, and does not meddle much in political affairs, yet he is decided in his opinions which he never fails to express at the ballot box. His donations for educational, religious and other charitable purposes have been very considerable; nor have they been confined to Bath Township alone. Many of them are yet unknown in the community in which he resides.


CONRAD CARVER ; P. O. Buckeye ; was born in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, Nov. 10, 1810 ; he is the son of John and Margaret (Miller) Carver, who were natives of Germany, and the parents of four sons and two daughters. Conrad Carver remained at home and attended school until he was 14 years of age ; he then began working for a man at 88 per year ; he continued working in his native country until about 26 years of age, never receiving more than $12 per year for his services ; he had dur-


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ing this time saved some money, and he now determined to try his fortunes in the New World, so, bidding farewell to home and fatherland, he started in 1836 for the new El Dorado, landing in New York in September of the same year ; he at once started for Cincinnati, but, on his arrival at Cleveland, he was compelled to stop. as his means were exhausted ; after some time, mainly spent in trying to find employment, he took passage on a canal boat, and, on its arrival at Peninsula, he was asked by a farmer of that place if he did not want to work; Mr. Carver told him that he did, and soon bargained to work for him during the winter ; he worked for this man six mouths ; at the expiration of that time and when they came to settle, the man could not pay him, and Mr. Carver never received one farthing from him ; his clothes were nearly worn out, and, in the early spring, he found employment helping to clear the canal ; he worked on the canal some four years in different capacities, and during that time, by strict economy, he had saved sufficient means to purchase 30 acres of land in Bath Township, paying $6 per acre for it. Perhaps there is not a man in Bath Township who has done more hard work than Mr. Carver ; many and many a time, after working all clay for some of his neighbors, he would return home and spend a great portion of the night clearing up his own farm. His untiring energy has been crowned with success, as he is today one of the wealthiest farmers of Bath Township ; his farm of 195 acres is well improved and nicely situated in the eastern part of the township. He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Lutz Oct. 14, 1838 ; she was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Dec. 2. 1820: from this union there were nine children, viz.. Lavina Mary A., Eliza. Simon P. and Alfred living ; John, Margaret, Rose A. and Polly deceased. Mr. Carver is a Republican and a member of the Evangelical Association. He has been ably seconded in all his undertakings in life by his good with. It can truly be said of them that there are no better or more respected people in the township than they.


J. W. CLAPPER, Ghent. This gentleman was born in Wayne Co., Ohio. Feb. 12, 1843. He is the son of John and Lydia A. (Biers) Clapper, the former a native of Wayne Co., Ohio, and the latter of Orange Co., N. J. They were the parents of two children—our subjectand his sister Sarah. She is the wife of R. Y. Robinson, Esq., and resides in Bath Township. John Clapper died when he was but 27 years of age. He was a promising young man, noted for his energy and straight business habits. His widow married again and is still a resident of Wayne Co. J. W. Clapper began life as a poor boy, and, when yet quite young, began for himself as a farmer. He served his country in the late war in Co. I, 5th O. V. V. C. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary M. Huston Oct. 23, 1867. She was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Dec. 12, 1847, and is the daughter of William and Sarah (Van Kirk) Huston, both natives of the Keystone State, and early settlers of Wayne Co. Mr. and Mrs. Clapper are the parents of four children, viz., Emma L., John W., Sadie and Jacob R. Mr. Clapper is a stanch Republican in politics, and interests himself in public improvements of all kinds. He owns 102 acres of land, which is well stocked, and which he farms in a very creditable manner.


MRS. CHARLOTTE DOOLITTLE, Bath. Among the old and honored pioneer women of Bath Township, none is more worthy of especial mention than Mrs. Charlotte Doolittle, who was born Feb. 28, 1809, in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y. She is the daughter of Stoten and Lydia (Allen) Hale, both of whom were natives of the Empire State, and the parents of five children. Mr. Hale was a wheelwright by trade. He was a soldier during the war of 1812, and served his country with distinction. Both he and wife I died when our subject was a small girl. She was united in marriage to Mr. Samuel Shaw in 1827. He was born in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., in 1804. From this union there were six children, viz., Samuel A., Samuel H., Charlotte C., Lorenzo, Dency L. and Richmond. In 1829, Mr. and Mrs. Shaw left their native State for Bath Township, this county. They had purchased 145 acres of land, which, on their arrival at Cleveland, they payed for which left them about 860 to begin improvements with. They arrived in Bath Township on Tuesday, and the following Friday they had a building erected, into which they moved. It was a rude structure indeed, and built on a side hill with the fireplace in the lower end, and only a rude puncheon floor in a portion of it. When it rained, the water would run in from the upper side and come coursing down through the room


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and put out the fire. This served them as a dwelling by being " patched up " for some time, when they added an upper story to their dwelling. This was an unusual proceeding, and the people of the neighborhood thought they were "putting on airs." Mr. Shaw was a carpenter by trade, and a man of energy and great physical powers. His good wife and companion would go with him into the woods and help him get out timbers for buildings. She would take one end of the crosscut saw and saw with her husband all day long, only stopping long enough to get their meals. They worked on in this way until the death of Mr. Shaw, which occurred in 1836. They had in this time built a large two-story, frame house, had a nice, young, bearing orchard, their place well stocked, and many other comforts and conveniences. Mrs. Shaw was married, in 1837, to Mr. Lyman Doolittle, a native of Ontario Co., N. Y., where he was born in 1801. This gentleman died in 1862. By this second marriage there were five children, viz., Liza M., Lucy M., Orpha O., Irving and Genevieve. Mrs. Doolittle lives upon the old homestead, surrounded by the comforts and conveniences of a well-earned competency. She is a lady of more than ordinary powers of mind and executive ability, and is respected by all who know her.


CHARLES H. HARRIS, Buckeye. Thomas N. Harris, father of this gentleman, was born in Beaver Co., Penn., Oct. 30, 1804. His father, Warren Harris, was a native of the " Old Dominion," and moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1812. Thomas N. was married, in Wayne Co., in 1828, to Miss Eliza Peach. She was born in Frederick Co., Va., Aug. 9, 1808, and is the daughter of Jacob Peach, a native of Virginia, from which State to Pennsylvania he removed with his family in 1809, and two years later, he came to what is now Jackson Township, Stark Co., Ohio. He came to Summit Co. in 1830, and settled in Bath Township, where he passed the remainder of his days. He was twice married, and was the parent of twenty children. In Thomas N. Harris' family were six sons and six daughters, viz., Rachel A., William, Minerva, Louisa, Jacob P., Charles IL, John S., Lewis H., George D., Angelina, Sarah and Lodelia. Of these twelve children, only five are now living. On the breaking-out of the rebellion, William, John S., Lewis H. and George D. entered their country's service. Lewis H. was killed at the battle of Winches ter, Va. George D., after being captured, and suffering untold privations in Southern prisons was paroled, and took passage for home on the ill-fated Sultana. How or in what manner hE met his death was never known. The other two boys lived to return home. Mr. and Mrs Harris have been residents of Bath Township since 1832. They have a nice home, and have the respect and esteem of all who know them. Charles H. Harris was born in this county Feb. 1 27, 1838. He received a good common-school education, and, when 13 years of age, went to live with Jacob Peach, his grandfather. After reaching his majority, he worked two years for his gandfather, and then rented the farm of him. He has ever since remained upon the farm. and, after the death of his grandfather, he purchased the place of the heirs. He was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Harris July 14, 1860. She was born in Stark Co.. Ohio. Nov. 7, 1840. This lady died Feb. 2G, 1873. By this marriage there were four children, viz.. Frank E., George R., Eber W. and Eleanor. Mr. Harris was married to Miss Lucinda Spraukle Jan. 22, 1874. She was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Dec. 18. 1836. Mr. Harris owns 106 acres of well-improved land. which he has obtained for the most part by his own endeavors. He is a Republican, a member of the Evangelical Association. and an enterprising, public-spirited citizen.


ABRAHAM HARSHEY. Ghent. This gentleman was born in Wayne Co., Ohio. Oct. 18, 1843. He is the son of Jacob and Sarah (Beltz) Harshey (see biography of John Harshey). Abraham was raised upon a farm, receiving but a common-school education. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary Baughman Feb. 23, 1864. This lady was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Feb. 10, 1844. Her parents were from the Keystone " State, and settled in the township in Wayne Co., Ohio, which bears their name, in a very early day. In Mr. Harshey's family are two children, viz., John C. and Jessie M. Since his marriage, Mr. Harshey has followed farming, milling and cheese-making, in all of which he has been quite successful. Although his early education was quite limited, he has, since reaching his majority, surrounded himself with useful and standard books and papers, and by the careful study of them. has acquired quite a store of


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useful knowledge, which we find him daily putting into practice. Mr. Harshey is a stanch Republican in politics, though liberal in his views regarding religion and men. He has held offices of honor and trust in Bath Township, where he is well and favorably known. He owns 145 acres of land, upon which are good, substantial farm buildings. Summit Co. would be much better off had it more such young men as Abraham Harshey.


JOHN HARSHEY. Ghent. The father of this gentleman. Jacob Harshey, was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., July 12, 1812. His wife, Sarah Beltz, was born in the same county Dec. 25, 1812. They were married in their native State in 1803, and, two years later, removed to Wayne Co., Ohio, where they resided until 1849, when they came to Bath Township, this county, where they have since resided. They were the parents of the following family of children, viz. : John, Jacob, Abraham. Henry and Sarah. Jacob and Henry are now dead. the others are married and reside in Bath Township. Both the Harsheys and Beltzes were originally from Switzerland. and their coming to America dates back to Colonial times. Jacob Harshey's father was a soldier of the war of 1812, and his grandfather of the war of the Revolution. Jacob Harshey is one of the wealthiest farmers in the county. He began as a poor boy, and is a self-made man in the fullest sense of the term. He owns 536 acres of good land at the present time. He has given liberally to his children and to religious and educational enterprises. His eldest son. John. was born in Lebanon Co.. Penn., Feb. 2. 1834 ; he passed his youth and early manhood assisting his father upon the farm. On the 6th of October, 1856, he was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Rice. This lady was born in Fayette Co., Penn.. Feb. 22, 1836. They are the parents of five children, viz., Emma A., Sarah F., George W. and Otis R., living ; Leroy. who died in infancy. Mr. Harshey owns 345 acres of land. upon which are good substantial farm buildings ; he raises good stock of all kinds. and is one of the leading and successful agriculturists of the county. He has held a number of positions of honor and trust in Bath Township. Is a Republican in politics, and a consistent member of the United Brethren Church.


EDWARD HELLER ; P. O. Ghent ; was born in Northampton Co., Penn., May 23, 1826. He is the son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Evenrider) Heller, the former a native of Bucks Co., Penn., and the latter of Lehigh Co. The father was a miller by trade, a frugal, industrious man, who had the respect and confidence of a large circle of friends. He was the parent of seven children, five of whom are yet living ; he died in 1852. His wife survives him, at an advanced age, and is a resident of the Quaker City. Edward Heller received a common-school education, his youth and early manhood being passed upon his father's farm and in the mill. He was united in marriage to Miss Julia A. Dutt, in 1851. This lady was born in Northampton Co., Penn., in 1827. From this union four children were born, viz., Quintus A., Benjamin F., Amanda E. and Emma D. Mr. Heller remained in his native State until 1852 ; he then came to this county, and purchased a farm in Copley Township, upon which he resided until 1870, when he sold out and came to Bath Township, and purchased the Ghent Mills. This is a large, three story steam and water grist and sawmill, and is the largest and best in the western part of the county. Mr. Heller ! also owns a grist-mill, one-half mile east of Ghent, and 21 acres of good land in the township. He is a Republican, and a member of the Evangelical Association. He is an upright business man, a consistent Christian gentleman, and has the respect and confidence of the entire community.


ROSWELL HOPKINS, Ghent. This gentleman was born in Bath Township, this county, April 3, 1825. He is one of a family of eight children born to Isaac and Susan (Harrison) Hopkins. Isaac Hopkins was a native of the “Empire " State, where he resided until reaching his majority, when he went to Pennsylvania, and while there met the lady who became his wife. She was a native of Connecticut, but had come with her parents to the " Keystone" State when a child. On the 10th of September, 1813 (the day of Perry's victory on Lake Erie), Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins left their home in Pennsylvania for Bath Township, Summit Co., Ohio. They came in a large wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen, and, after a journey of six weeks, arrived safe and sound at their destination. They located on what is now known as the McMillan farm in the southwestern part of Bath Township. Mr. Hopkins had purchased quite a tract of land, but after the war was


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over everything depreciated in value to such an extent and money became so scarce that it was only by the greatest exertions and strictest economy that he was able to keep his property. It took years, however, to accomplish this, and few men would have had the energy and perseverance to have done as much. He was honored during his lifetime with a number of offices which he filled with much credit to himself and lasting benefits to those for whom he labored. He was ever ready to advance the public good, and renowned for his strict business principles and sterling integrity. He departed this life in 1852, followed by his faithful wife ten years later. Roswell Hopkins received but a limited education, as his services were required at home nearly all the time. Whenever he had a spare day, however, he would work for some of the neighbors, and his earnings would go toward clothing him. He was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Lee Oct. 8, 1846. This lady was born Dec. 18, 1828, in New York. From this union there were ten children, viz.: George, Wait, Ira, Burt, Ami, Cecil, Edna, Irene, Grant and Emma. Wait, Ami, Cecil and Emma are the only ones now living. Mr. Hopkins began life as a poor boy, his wedding suit being of " homespun," and he now says, "I was very glad that I had as good." He followed farming exclusively until 10 years ago, a business he was very successful at. Since that time he has dealt quite extensively in lumber. He owns a sawmill which is propelled by water, and which is supplied with the latest and most approved machinery. He owns 250 acres of land which is nicely improved. He has held positions of honor and trust, and is a Republican in politics, although not a strict party man. His rule is to vote for men and measures and not for party. The county would be much better off did it contain more such men as Mr. Hopkins.


GEORGE KIRK, Bath. Michael Kirk, the grandfather of this gentleman, removed with his family from the Keystone State to Stark C , Ohio, in 1817 ; his son William was at this time about 22 years of age, and the year following was united in marriage to Miss Maria Miller, a native of Pennsylvania. From this union there were eleven children, viz.. George, Margaret, Rufus, Albert, Bazil, Ezra, Rebecca, Maria, Clara, Lodema and Melissa. Mr. Kirkalways followed farming and stock-raising, a business he was eminently fitted for, and one he was very successful at. He died Feb. 24, 1870. He had been a good and useful man, and a respected and honored citizen ; his wife survives him and resides at Freeport, III. George Kirk received a common-school education, and remained at home working for his father until he had reached his majority ; he then, for two years, worked for his father at $100 per annum, and at the expiration of that time he, in company with his father, took a trip throughout Indiana, Illinois and Iowa. While in Iowa, Mr. Kirk purchased 125 acres of land in Cedar Co. After an absence of some months they returned to Stark Co., this State, where for a period of four years George was variously employed. He was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Shisler, March 26, 1846 ; this lady was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., July 18, 1826 ; they have been blessed with seven children, six of whom are yet living, viz., Seth, Lilla. Frank. Ira L., Miller S. and Cora ; the one deceased was named Ralph. In 1846, Mr. Kirk came to Bath Township and located on the farm he now owns. There were but few improvements on the place, and he has by his industry and good taste so improved it that it is second to none in the township. He deals quite extensively in sheep, which he has been very successful in handling ; he also has paid considerable attention to the raising of Durham cattle, and has at the present time some fine specimens of this valuable breed upon his farm ; it can truly be said of him that he is one of the most practical and successful farmers and stock-raisers in Bath Township. He is a Republican of the stalwart kind, and has filled many offices in the township with much credit to himself and lasting benefits to those for whom he labored. He and wife are members of the Evangelical Association, and, though passing into the "sear and yellow leaf," their years sit lightly upon them. They are located in a pleasant and comfortable home in a community where they are respected and and beloved, and where the record of their well-spent lives can never be effaced.


MORRIS LYON ; Montrose. John Lyon the father of this gentleman, was a native of the " Bay " State ; his father served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. and, although a hardworking, energetic man, never succeeded


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in accumulating much property. The consequence was that John Lyon. when quite young, was bound out to the miller's trade, and had but few of the advantages boys of the present day enjoy in the way of obtaining an education and gaining a knowledge of the world. He was united in marriage, in Rhode Island. to Miss Elizabeth Holden, a native of that State. Some time after his marriage, he removed to Ontario Co.. N. Y., and resided there, engaged in agricultural pursuits, until his removal to Copley Township. this county, which was in 1834. In his family were eight children. He died in 1849. and his wife in 1873. Morris Lyon was born in Bloomfield Township, Ontario Co., N. Y.. June 1. 1823. He was brought up on his father's farm, his education being such as the common schools of that clay afforded. In 1840, he entered the wagon-shop of S. A. Lane & Co., of Akron, and after remaining with them some time went to Medina. Ohio, where he worked at his trade some two years. He at length located at Copley Center, where he worked at wagon and carriage making for quite a number of years. He followed farming some years, and three years ago he came to Montrose, and engaged in mercantile pursuits. which business he has since followed. He was united in marriage to Miss Laura A. Briggs, Sept. 11. 1848. This lady was born in Copley Township. this county. in 1824 ; from this union six children were born to them. viz.. Duane C.. Irvin E.. Julien W., Fremont E., Ossian G. and Albert. Mrs. Lyon departed this life in 1868. Mr. Lyon has given his sons such advantages as his means would admit of ; Julien W. is a graduate of the Ohio Medical College of Columbus, and is located at Akron, Ohio ; Fremont E. is a graduate of the Ann Arbor School of Dental Surgery, and is also located in Akron ; Irvin E. is engaged in mercantile pursuits in Cleveland ; Albert lives in Adair Co.. Iowa, and Duane C. and Ossian G. reside in Copley Township. Mr. Lyon is a stanch Republican in politics. and is well posted on the important issues of the day. He has always been a strong advocate of the temperance reform. and those who have heard him in his quiet way sum up the evidence against this great social and moral evil. cannot help agreeing with him that the preponderance of evidence is strongly against it. Both the moral and intellectual standing of Summit County would be of a much higher order, were there more such men as Mr. Morris Lyon.


MRS. LAURA T. McMILLAN ; Montrose ; this lady was born in Bath Township, Summit Co., Ohio, March 17. 1836. She is the daughter of Morris P. and Hettie B. (Looker) Miller, the former a native of Ontario Co., N. Y.. and the latter of New Jersey. They were married in the "Empire" State, where they remained until 1817, when they came to this county and located in the northwestern part of Northampton Township. Six years later they removed to Copley Township, where they lived some time and then moved to Sharon Township, Medina Co., Ohio, and thence after a few years to Bath Township, which they ever afterward made their home. They were industrious. intelligent people and were the parents of seven children (a complete history of the Miller family will be found in another part of this work). Laura T. lived with her parents until her marriage with Mr. G. W. McMillan, which occurred June 11, 1863. This gentleman was born in Bath Township, this county. Oct. 10, 1838. He was raised upon the farm he owned at the time of his death, and received the benefits of a good common-school education. He was one of the most successful and practical farmers of Bath Township. He dealt quite extensively in live stock, and was noted for his fair dealings and and straight business habits. He died after a short illness. May 13. 1878. Thus passed away in the prime and vigor of his manhood, one of the county's most useful and honored citizens. He was a man of broad and liberal views. encouraging everything known to be right and promptly rejecting everything known to be wrong. His widow survives him and resides upon the old homestead. which consists of 116 acres of nicely improved land. She is a lady of refinement and intelligence, and has the respect of the entire community.


HARVEY MILLER ; Montrose ; this gentleman was born in Hartford Co.. Conn., June 12. 1818. He is the son of Elisha and Sarah F. (Woodford) Miller, both natives of Connecticut, where they were reared, married and resided until 1S27, when they moved to this county, arriving in Bath Township, Feb. 27. They came the entire distance in a sleigh, but the latter part of their journey was performed on ground that was nearly bare. Mr.


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Miller had purchased about 800 acres of land in the southwestern part of Bath Township, which he immediately began to improve. In his family were the following children—Lyman R., Anson, Elisha E., Sarah E., Clarinda, Lowley, Nathaniel 0., George, Harvey and Evelina; all these children were born in Connecticut, and six of them are yet living, attesting to the vigor and vitality of the original stock. Mr. Miller was a man of more than ordinary ability, and was noted for his integrity and straight business habits. He kept a tavern for eighteen years on the home place, and was for years Postmaster. He creditably filled a number of positions of honor and trust, and was respected by all who knew him. This worthy man and pioneer died at his home in Bath Township, Feb. 14, 1854, and his good wife, Aug. 17, four years latter. Harvey Miller was

raised upon his father's farm, and receiving such education as the log schoolhouses of that early day afforded. His union with Miss Ann Wagar occurred Oct. 16, 1844. This lady was born in Montgomery Co., N. Y., Feb. 7, 1825. They have an adopted daughter—Rosetta. who is the wife of Mr. T. F. Porter. Mr. Miller has always followed farming, and stock raising, a business he is eminently fitted for. He owns 88 acres of land which is nicely improved, and under a high state of cultivation. He has always been a strong anti-slavery man, and an earnest advocate of temperance and sobriety. He and wife are members of the M. E. Church, and have contributed largely toward its support. In fact they are ever ready to support any enterprise that has a tendency to build up the community in which they live, or benefit their fellowman. They are worthy people who enjoy the respect and confidence of all who know them.


RALSAMON MILLER, Ghent. Ralsamon Miller was born Dec. 7, 1838, in Granger Township, Medina Co., Ohio. He is the son of William and Electa (Crosby) Miller, both of whom were natives of the " Empire " State. The Millers came to this county in 1817, and settled in the northwestern part of Northampton Township. William Miller is one of the wealthy and leading agriculturists of Summit Co. He resides in Copley Township, where he is well and favorably known. Ralsamon Miller was raised to farm labor, receiving the benefits of a common-school education. He wasunited in marriage to Miss Sarah Harshey, Oct. 21, 1858. She was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Oct. 12, 1832. From this union there were four children, viz., Elizabeth, Sarah L., Ida M., and Alpha L. In early boyhood, Mr. Miller manifested a strong liking for handling and being where live stock were being handled. After reaching man's estate, he embarked in the livestock trade, and has since that time handled a great deal, usually buying and then preparing them for market. He has been uniformly successful, and his judgment is seldom at fault. He owns a well-improved farm of 240 acres, also a grist-mill two miles east of Ghent, and is quite extensively engaged in the manufacture of cheese. He is a stanch Republican in politics, and has creditably filled several township offices.


REV. WILLIAM B. MOODY, Bath. This gentleman was born in. Kennebec Co.. Me., Feb. 17, 1808. He is the son of Joseph and Bridget (Davis) Moody, both of whom were natives of Shapley, Me., where they were married and resided until 1806, when they moved to Kennebec Co. In 1813, they removed to Ontario Co., N. Y., and from there to Richfield Township, this county. in 1821. They were the parents of nine children, viz.. Daniel, Joseph. Davis, Samuel, Ephriam, Rhoda, Priscilla. Bridget and William B. Bridget and William B., are the only ones now living. Mr. Moody and wife were intelligent Christian people. He died in 1824, and his wife in 1847. William B. Moody was reared upon a farm, and, during his youth and early manhood, received no education to speak of. After he had reached his majority, he surrounded himself with good and useful books and began a course of self-instruction, which extended over a period of four years. He was ordained a minister of the M. E. Church by Rev. Robert R. Roberts, at Wooster, in 1840. Some years later he withdrew from this church on account of their position on the slavery question, and connected himself with the Protestant Methodist Church. In 1850, he became a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, with which denomination he has ever since labored. During his life his ministerial labors have not been confined to Summit Co. alone, but has been extended over the counties of Medina, Geauga. Lorain and Cuyahoga. He was united in marriage to Miss Harriet Osborn May 14, 1828. She was horn


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in East Cleveland, Ohio, in 1811, and died Aug. 20, 1856. From this union there were nine children, viz., William B., Deborah, Joseph, Rhoda, James, Samuel, Ira, Davis, and one that died in infancy without naming. ' He was married Oct. 11, 1856, to Mrs. Julia (Adams) Spencer, who again brought to his hearthstone the genial influences of a home left desolate by the death of his first wife. One child, John B., has blessed their union, and with this interesting son and most excellent wife, he enjoys in advancing years the pleasure and comforts of a happy home, and an ample competence. In social and public life, Mr. Moody occupies a highly honorable position. From early life a " worker in his Master's vineyard," he exemplifies in his life the duties and doctrines of a pure Christianity, and has frequently been a representative in the highest councils of his Church. Such is a brief outline of Rev. William B. Moody's life. May his declining years rest lightly upon him, and Summit Co. long be spared the life of one of her noblest men.


OLIVER MOORE, West Richfield ; this gentleman was born in Hamilton Co., Mass., Jan. 6, 1811 ; he is the son of Roswell and Sarah (Clark) Moore ; the former a native of Connecticut, and the latter of Rhode Island ; after their marriage they resided in Massachusetts until 1819, when they moved to what is now Franklin Township. Portage Co., Ohio, where they ever afterward resided. They were the parents of six children, viz., Roswell. Oliver, Joseph, Sarah, Almeda and Electa ; four of these children are yet living and are the heads of families. Mr. Moore was killed while at work in the woods by a falling tree, in 1831. His wife lived until 1868, when she quietly passed away. Mr. Moore was a farmer, but worked at the stone and brick mason's trades at times ; he was an energetic, public-spirited man, and his untimely death was deeply regretted by his family and a large circle of friends. Oliver Moore was raised upon a farm, and his education was such as could be obtained in the log schoolhouses of that early day. He was united in marriage to Miss Ann Rockwell, July 6, 1835 ; she was born in Ontario Co., N. Y., April 9, 1812. The fruits of this union were three children, viz., Lecester O., Lewis A. and Roswell P. Lecester O. was born in Portage Co., Aug. 30, 1837 ; he was married to Mary E. Longfellow, Aug. 2, 1868 ;she was born in Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, July 28, 1842 ; they have one child, viz., Stella L. Roswell P. was a soldier in the late war, was severely wounded at Gettysburg, and was a brave and gallant soldier ; he is now dead. Lewis A. has been a resident of New Mexico some years. Mrs. Oliver Moore departed this life April 6, 1864. Mr. Moore was united in marriage to Miss Emily Hopkins, June 2, 1868. This lady was born in Franklin Co., Vt., Dec. 17, 1808. Mr. Moore has always followed farming and stock-raising, and has owned at different times large quantities of real estate; he has given liberally to his children, and still owns 93 acres of well-improved land. He was, during the clays of slavery, a strong pro-slavery man, and has ever advocated temperance in all things. He has been an exemplary member of the Methodist Episcopal Church a great many years. and at the building of a church of that denomination in Bath Township, in 1869, Mr. Moore gave $600 of the $2,000 that it cost to build it. The church was named " Moore's Chapel " in honor of him, and will for years to come be a fitting monument to his memory. Summit Co., would be much better off had it more such men as Oliver Moore.


ORISON MOORE, Montrose. This gentleman was born in Brookfield Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, Sept. 21, 1822. He is the son of Lester and Ruth (Twining) Moore, both of whom were natives of the Bay State. In 1812, Mr. Moore came to Ohio and purchased a tract of land in Trumbull Co., and two years later moved to his property and began its improvement. They remained in that county until 1837, and then removed to Norton Township, this county. Mr. Moore was a soldier of the war of 1812, and held a Captain's commission. He was an energetic man, kind of heart, and ever ready to help his fellowman. This last characteristic proved a detriment to him, as he lost heavily at different times by going security for those whom he thought to assist. In his family were eight, all of whom are now living, and who are the heads of respectable 1 families. Mr. Moore died in 1859, and his wife in 1851. Orison Moore received such education as the schools of that early day afforded, and remained at home, assisting his father upon the farm until about 25 years of age. He was united in marriage to Miss Fanny Root Jan. 24, 1847. She was born in Summit Co.,


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Ohio, Jan. 11, 1828, and died Jan. 19, 1875. On the 30th of March, 1876. Mr. Moore was united in marriage to Miss Zilpha Stark, who was born Nov. 15, 1842, in Stow Township, this county. Mr. Moore came to this county in 1837, which he has since made his home, with the exception of ten years that he resided in Portage Co. He has lived in Bath Township since 1864. where he owns a nicely-improved farm of 108 acres. He is a stanch Republican in politics, and one of the most practical and successful farmers and stock-raisers in Bath Township.


HENRY PARDEE. Ghent. This gentleman was born in Skaneateles, N. Y., April 15, 1826. He is the son of Harry and Fanny (Benedict) Pardee. both natives of the Empire State." where they were married and resided until 1823, when they came to Ohio and settled at Middlebury, in what is now Summit Co. Mr. Pardee was a chairmaker by trade, and, soon after locating in Middlebury, began working at his trade. It was not long ere his facilities for manufacturing were inadequate for his rapidly increasing trade. He, therefore, erected suitable buildings, and. in a few years, he found that he had the largest business of the kind in Northern Ohio. Besides manufacturing all kinds of cabinet-ware, he made pails, tubs, etc., etc. In 1849, he moved to Akron. and, for some years, was actively engaged in business in that place. He owned a sawmill in Northampton, where the greater portion of the material used by him was gotten out. He employed a great many men, and was one of the most active business men the county ever had. A number of years previous to his death, he moved to Northampton Township, where, on the 6th of February, 1879, he quietly sank to rest. He was the parent of the following family of children : Margaret, Henry, James, Horace, Mary, Edward, Luther, Elijah, Albert and Martha. Horace and Albert were soldiers during the late war, and well and faithfully served their country. Mr. Pardee was one of the first men in the county to engage largely in the manufacturing business in any manner, and to him 1 more than any other does Middlebury and Akron owe their large and extensive manufactures and the thrift and enterprise that characterize them. He possessed several qualities of a high order, and was noted for his nobility of soul and his scrupulous honesty. In early life Mr. Pardee was admitted a member of the Masonic Order, and was greatly delighted with its principles and teachings, availing himself of every opportunity to acquire a knowledge of the work and to comprehend the sublime principles of the Order. His widow survives him at the advanced age of SO years, though she is as smart and active as many ladies at 50. Henry Pardee received the benefits of a common-school education. and, until he was 33 years of age. worked with and for his father in different capacities. He was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Prior. in 1346. She was born in Geauga Co., Ohio, in 182S. From this union there are four children. viz.: Julia. Julius, Harriet and Enoch. In 1856. Mr. Pardee came to Ghent. but. after a year, returned to Northampton, where he remained some three years and then returned to Ghent, and. in connection with Mr. Alonzo Coffin, rented the woolen-mill of that place. and for four years was engaged in the manutacture of woolen goods. At the expiration of that time he sold out to Mr. Coffin. and embarked in mercantile pursuits in the village. In this business he remained until a short time ago. During this period he was village Postmaster, and was engaged in manufacturing two-horse wagons. chairs, tables, and was one of the founders of a cheese factory at that place. He is now engaged in manufacturing water-proof goods known as the " Hammerstain process." This is a superior way of preparing waterproof goods, and gives universal satisfaction wherever it has been tried. By this process the fabric is proofed on both sides, which

makes it entirely waterproof, and at the same time impervious to heat or cold. Mr. Pardee also has discovered a process for making one of the cheapest and best fire-kindlers as yet manufactured. The manner and rapidity with which he has completed and perfected these two important and will industries a lasting reflects monument to his great credit on him, in time to come. This same energy and thoroughness have characterized his every walk in life. He has been successful because he has been cautious, thorough and industrious. He is well respected because his conduct has been above reproach. He has held numerous positions of honor and trust, and is a respected and honored citizen.


RUFUS RANDALL, M. D., Bath. This gentleman and well-known physician and sur-


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geon, was born in Sharon Township, Medina Co., Ohio, July 7, 1834. He is the son of Delano P. and Lois (Huntley) Randall, both of whom were natives of the Empire State. They were married in their native State, and were the parents of four children, viz., James, Rufus, Marcellus and Harriet. They came to Sharon Township, Medina County, in an early day, where the father yet resides, the mother being dead. Mr. Randall was a carpenter by trade, but has for the most part been engaged in farming and mercantile pursuits since he came to Ohio. He is a good man and useful citizen, and has the respect and confidence of all who know him. Rufus was raised upon his father's farm, and received the benefits of a good common-school and Academic education. When about 17 years of age, he began the study of medicine with Dr. C. W. Northrop, with whom he remained about a year, and then went to Columbus, Ohio, and entered the office of Dr. John Hamilton, one of the most skillful surgeons and successful practitioners in the West. He remained under Dr. Hamilton's instructions until he graduated from the Starling Medical College, which was in 1858. Soon after graduating, he located at Hammond's Corners, where he has since resided and where he has built up a large and steadily increasing practice. Always a careful and close student of Pathology, as he found it in his practice, he has become a leader in the use of new and rational remedies, and with surprising and uniform success. He was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Roberts, in 1863. This lady was born in Copley Township, this county, Dec. 3, 1841. From this union there were three children. viz., Effie B. and Cora La Q., living, and Ida M., deceased. Dr. Randall has been a lifelong Republican, and an earnest advocate of equal rights and all needed reforms. He is a member of the Masonic order and one of the county's best citizens.


SYLVESTER SHAW (deceased). This gentleman was born in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., March 5, 1806. He was married in his native State. Oct. 16, 1828, to Miss Harriet Parsons, a native of Ontario Co., where she was born Aug. 11, 1809. In 1832, they left their native State for Bath Township, this county, arriving at their destination on the 18th of November of the same year. They came the entire distance in a large wagon drawn by oxen, and, ontheir arrival in the township, moved their goods into a small log cabin that had been built on their land. In this they lived until one more comfortable and commodious could be erected. Both Mr. and Mrs. Shaw, however, were energetic, and it was not many years ere they were surrounded with a great many comforts and conveniences. They were the parents of the following family of children, viz.: Harriet C., Sylvester P., Vashti M., Samuel, Marietta, William, Sibyl B. and Constant. Mr. Shaw was a hardworking man, and accumulated a goodly share of this world's goods. He was a man who paid strict attention to his farm duties, never aspiring to any political prominence, although he was decided in his views of right and wrong, which he never failed to express when occasion required. This useful man and much-respected citizen departed this life Nov. 17, 1875. His widow survives him, and resides upon the old homestead. She is an intelligent Christian lady, and has the respect of all who know her. Constant Shaw was born on the old homestead Nov. 20, 1852. He married Miss Cora I. Worden Oct. 15, 1874. She was born in Richfield Township, this county, Dec. 24, 1852. They have one child, viz., Leon. Samuel Shaw was born Aug. 11, 1838. He was married, Sept. 15, 1860, to Miss Lucy Webster. She was born in Ontario Co., N. Y., May 21, 1838. They have two children, viz., Loretta and Berdella. Sylvester P. Shaw was born Aug. 25, 1831. He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah R. Moody March 23, 1856. She was born in Richfield Township Nov. 20, 1838. They have four children, viz.: Gilson B., Hattie V., Durward B. and Bertha V. There are other members of the family who are married and are the heads of respectable families. All the Shaw boys are well-to-do farmers and respected citizens.


CHANCY SALISBURY, Ghent. This gentleman was born in Bath Township, this county, March 10, 1830. He is the son of William and Sylva (Atwell) Salisbury, both of whom were natives of Ontario Co., N. Y. They were married in their native State, and removed from there to this county in 1827. Mr. Salisbury had come to the county the year previous and purchased 75 acres of land in Bath Township. In his family were eight children, five of whom are yet living. He was a newsboy in Buffalo during the last war with England and witnessed


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the burning of that place by the British. He always followed farming after his marriage, a business he was very successful at. He was renowned for his sobriety, economy and straight dealings, and it is said by those who knew him that " his word was just as good as his bond." He died April 8, 1863. and his wife Feb. 24. 1867. Chancy was raised upon a farm receiving a common-school education. After reaching his majority. he worked by the month for his father and for men in the neighborhood. He worked some fourteen months in Indiana, and one winter in Wisconsin. He was united in marriage to Miss Maria Hopkins Sept. 28, 1870. She was born in Bath Township June 25, 1830. Mr. Salisbury has always followed farming and stock-raising. He owns 100 acres of well-improved land, nicely situated, near the center of the township. He is a Republican in politics, and has filled several township offices with great acceptance. He is an enterprising, public-spirited man, and a useful and honored citizen.


HOUSEL SMITH, Montrose. This gentleman was born in Springfield Township, Summit Co., Ohio, Oct. 14, 1824. He is the son of James and Sarah (Housel) Smith, both of whom were natives of Lancaster Co., Penn., where they were married and resided until 1812. when they moved to Lake Township, Stark Co., Ohio. After about two years they moved into Springfield Township, it being then a part of Stark Co. They were the parents of seven children, viz., Peter, Catharine, John, Cyrenius. James, Housel and Amelia. Mr. Smith always followed farming and stock-growing. He was a successful business man, an exemplary member of the M. E. Church, and a useful member of society. He departed this life in 1857. His widow survives him and resides north of the city of Akron. Housel Smith received but a limited education. and, up to the time he was 18 years of age, worked for his father. He was then given his time, and began working his father's farm on the shares. After about eight years, he purchased 50 acres of land in Bath Township and began its improvement. In a few years he sold this farm and purchased 104 , acres where he now lives. He has since added to this until he now owns 140 acres of good land, which he has nicely improved. He was united in marriage to Miss Susanna Moore March 6, 1851. This lady was born in Springfield Township, this county. May 6.1830. From this union there are eight children. viz., Eimanuel C.. John N., James A., Robert H.. Sarah L.. Charles H.. George E. and Margaret J. Mr. Smith is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the United Brethren Church. He began life as a poor boy. and is a self-made man in the fullest sense of the word.


MICHAEL SPRANKLE. Ghent. John Sprankle, the father of this gentleman. was a native of the Keystone State ; when he was quite a child, his parents removed to Stark Co.. Ohio, where they entered a large tract of land. Here John Sprankle was married and resided until 1833, when he moved to Summit Co.. settling in Bath Township ; he was a miller by ' trade. and that. in connection with farming. he followed (luring his lifetime ; he was the parent of two sons and five daughters; he was a hardworking man, and always paid strict attention to his own affairs : he was scrupulously honest. and was esteemed and respected by all who knew him. Michael Sprankle was born in Stark Co.. Ohio., March 23, 1821. His advantages for obtaining an education were very limited, and from early boyhood was inured to toil, he remaining at home until about 21 years of age ; he then rented a farm of his father in Stark Co., and began doing for himself. He was united in marriage to Miss Eliza McGrew. in 1843 ; this lady died in a few years, leaving a son and daughter, viz., Charles and Lucinda. Mr. Sprankle was married June 13. 1848, to Miss Harriet Albertson. a native of Stark Co.. where she was born Nov. 25, 1828 ; by this union there were eight children, four of whom are yet living, viz., Oliver, Edwin, Collins and Allie A ; those deceased were named—Alonzo. Burton, John A. and Cora E. Mr. Sprankle continued to reside in Stark Co. until 1865. when he moved to Bath Township, this county, which he has since made his home. He began life as a poor boy and has by his own exertions and the assistance of his good wife secured a goodly share of this world's goods ; he owns 363 acres of well-improved land, and is one of the best and most practical farmers in Bath Township ; politically he is a Republican ; he and wife possess social qualities of a high order, and are among the leading citizens of the township.


J. M. THORP, West Richfield. The parents of this gentleman, Manville B. and Fanny W.


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(Clark) Thorp, are among the early settlers of the county. Manville B. Thorp was born Feb. 7, 1808, in the Empire State, and his wife in the Bay State, March 7. 1811. They were married in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., Nov. 3, 1832, and two years later came to Bath Township, this county, where they have since resided. Jeremiah, father of Manville B., was a soldier of the war of 1812, and his father, Nathan Thorp, served his country in the war of the Revolution. Manville B. Thorp and wife, on first coming to this county, settled on the farm now owned by them in Bath Township. there being no improvements on the land at that time. They are the parents of five children, all of whom are now living. Mr. Thorp has always been a hardworking, enterprising and public-spirited citizen, and has been very successful in all his business undertakings ; he owns over 300 acres of good tillable land, which is nicely improved. J. M. Thorp was raised upon a farm and received a good common-school education ; he was united in marriage to Miss Vashti M. Shaw, May 24. 1857 ; she was born in Bath Township this county, Aug. 30, 1834; they have four sons, viz., Elwin C.. Warren S.. Ayers C. and Maynard B. Mr. Thorp was born in Ontario Co., N. Y.. Nov. 25. 1833 ; in 1863. he began the study of dental surgery. and after some years began its practice at Akron. to which place and Richfield. Ohio, his practice has been confined, he always finding enough to do. He has an office at Richfield, and has a good paying practice ; he is a quiet, unassuming man, and possesses the confidence and esteem of all who know him.


JOSEPH F. WHITCRAFT. Bath ; John Whiteraft. the father of this gentleman. was born in Fayette. Co.. Penn., in 1797. While he was yet a small boy his parents removed to Jefferson Co., Ohio, and from there, after a few years, to Stark County. Here his youth and early manhood was passed, his education being such as the log schoolhouse afforded. He was united in marriage in 1823 to Miss Eleanor Harkins, a native of Westmoreland Co., Penn., where she was born in 1800. Her parents had removed from the Keystone State to Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1813. Soon after their marriage, Mr. ,and Mrs. Whitcraft took up their residence in Stark County, where they resided until their removal to Bath Township, this county, in 1832. The year previous Mr. Whitcraft had come to the township and purchased 82+ acres of land. He did some clearing and erected a log cabin, in which the family moved upon their arrival. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Whitcraft, viz., William, Thomas, Hugh, Samuel, Joseph F., Esther, John, Silas, Nancy and Eleanor, seven of whom are yet living. Mr. Whitcraft was a prominent and respected citizen, and held during his lifetime many positions of honor and trust. He was renowned for his strict business principles, integrity. and readiness to promote the public good. This good man and pioneer departed this life in 1842. His wife survives him at the ! advanced age of 81 years. She has a very retentive memory and is as smart and active as many ladies at 50. Joseph F. Whitcraft was born Sept. 22, 1830, in Stark Co., Ohio. His early education was limited, being confined to such as could be obtained in the log-cabin schoolhouse. He was but 12 years of age at the time of his father's death, and he remained at home helping to care for the younger members of the family until he was of age. He then took charge of the farm, which he resided upon until four years ago, when he came to Hammond's Corners and engaged in mercantile pursuits. He was united in marriage to Miss Adaline A. Miller, March 22, 1855. This lady was born in Richfield Township, this county, June 20, 1834, and is the daughter of Moses C. and Anna (Compton) Miller, who were among the first settlers of this county. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Whitcraft. four of whom are yet living, viz., Clara B., Jennie E., Mariam I. and Sigel B. The deceased were named Cora E. and Sherman. Mr. Whitcraft is a stanch Republican and is Postmaster at the "Corners." He has held positions of honor and trust, and is highly spoken of as an official. He was a delegate to the Kent Convention in 1855, and voted for James A. Garfield for State Senator. He is a pleasant, courteous gentleman and one of the county's best citizens.