HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 303

CHAPTER VI.*

THE PROFESSIONS—LEGAL LORE IN THE PIONEER DAYS—GREGORY POWERS—OTHER EARLY

LAWYERS—THE PRESENT SUMMIT COUNTY BAR—MEDICAL—PIONEER PHYSICIANS—

DIFFERENT SYSTEMS—MEDICAL SOCIETIES, ETC.

THE history of the County would not be considered complete, without a sketch of the The following on the Summit County bar is by Judge Carpenter, and is as follows:—[ED.]

In the summer of 1832, the writer. a stranger in Ohio, alert for information touching its people. laws, soil. products and topography. took the mail coach at Ravenna for Hudson. There was sitting on the back seat a man whose look would have taken his attention anywhere. A green bag filled with books lay by his side. He was considerably under thirty, tall and slim, but with limbs and contour so round and trim as to suggest an embodiment of muscular vigor. agility and toughness. His dress was simple but fitted with faultless neatness to his elegant figure.

Conversation began at once. The writer's various questions were answered with a precision which evinced a thorough acquaintance with Ohio. its public interests, its heterogeneous inhabitants, their different habits and peculiarities. Unquestionably that fellow-passenger was a man of keen observation. But his easy flow of intelligence bore not the slightest show of vanity or ostentation. His mastery of language, the complete finish of every sentence, his faultless pronunciation and the grammatical accuracy and purity of his English, might mark him for a college professor. On reaching Stow Corners, he took the road to Middlebury on foot, green bag in hand.

When the writer returned to Ravenna he inquired of Mr. Coolman, the hotel keeper, the name of his fellow-passenger, remarking that he had been very pleasantly entertained by him, and had set him down as a man of mark who had traveled considerably with his eyes and ears wide open. Mr. Coolman, who

* By Judge James S. Carpenter and Dr. Alvin K. Fulmer.

was himself an invaluable treasury of what open eyes and ears could gather up, smiled at the remark and replied: " That gentleman, sir, is Gregory Powers. He is becoming a very distinguished lawyer, and is, in truth, a rising man; but as to his traveling, he was born and brought up here in the woods, and I doubt whether he was ever out of Ohio." It is true that he had then seen little of the world outside of Ohio; and that his acquaintance had rarely extended beyond the Western Reserve.

In his profession, Mr. Powers was not a voluminous reader. His library was not at all extensive, and his reading was mostly elementary. His practice at the bar was earnest, grave, strictly honorable and always courteous. Advocates had not in those days acquired the art of inspiring jurors by blowing in their faces. They stood at a distance of six or eight yards from the jury-box, and maintained a manliness of deportment superior to the more recent practice.

But it was not oratory that most distinguished the forensic efforts of Mr. Powers. It was his ability by quick and clear analysis to disentangle the most covert and complex transactions among men, and follow them to their legal consequences. And it was matter of curious observation to a listener that his high tension of voice and feeling was more frequent and intense in his arguments to the court on some abstract point of law, than in unraveling facts to the jury. In the latter case, his highest ascents of voice and manner were more mild and of a more even tenor, intensely pressing the high claims of right and justice He was born in the township of Stow, then in Portage County, in 1805. His father was a native of Naples, Italy, and had been a sea captain. His mother was a lady of Middletown, Conn., and died in 1811. Some-

304 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

time after his mother's death, Gregory entered Burton Academy and continued there two years, making rapid progress in all studies which he took in hand, being especially distinguished in Latin and still more in mathematics. On leaving the academy he began the study of law, in the office of Judge Van R. Humphrey, in Hudson. As a student at law; Judge Humphrey said he was not a rapid reader. He habitually quarreled with what he was reading—turned back and read over and over again, till he was master of the text, and thus reconciled it to his sense of right as he went along.

In 1832, Mr. Powers was elected by the Clay men and Anti-Masons of Portage County, to the House of Representatives of Ohio. In 1833, he was a candidate for re-election, but political alternations had fixed that year for the Democratic party, and Mr. Powers was succeeded by Roan Clarke. In 1838, Mr. Powers was elected by the Whigs to the Senate of Ohio. In both branches of the Legislature his course was marked by the same high ability which had given him such eminence at the bar. He came home from the Senate apparently overworked and suffering at the heart, which brought him to his death at the age of thirty-four, July 10, 1839, ending a career, which, had it continued to the common limit of old age, must have set him among the loftiest characters of our country.

Van R. Humphrey was born at Goshen, Conn., July 28, 1800. His educational training was wholly at the common school of his native place, but it seems to have been so thorough that he became a successful teacher of a common school while in his teens. At what time he commenced the study of law is .not ascertained, but a certificate of Theodore North, attorney and counselor at law, dated Goshen, May 11, 1821, says: "He pursued his course of legal studies in my office with uncommon attention and diligence." A copy of the record of the Court of Common Pleas of Litchfield County, Conn., duly certified by Frederick Wolcott, Clerk, shows that in September, 1820, he was admitted an attorney and counselor at law before all the Courts of Common Pleas in Connecticut.

April 17, 1821, he was married to Stella Beach, of Goshen, and settled in Hudson, Ohio, the same year, where he continued his residence through life. An official certificate of S. Day, Clerk, shows that at a term of the Supreme Court of Ohio, on the 1st day of July, 1822, present the Hon. Calvin Pease and Peter Hitchcock, Judges, Van R. Humphrey was duly examined, admitted and sworn as an attorney and counselor at law and solicitor in chancery, within the State of Ohio. In 1824, he was elected, commissioned and qualified as Justice of the Peace for the township of Hudson. December 26, 1828, he was admitted to practice in the District Court of the United States, within the State of Ohio. In the year 1828, he was elected to the House of Representatives of the Legislature of Ohio, and was re-elected to the same office in 1829. He was elected by the Legislature of Ohio President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of the Third Judicial District for the term of seven years, beginning in 1836 and ending in 1843.

From 1830, or perhaps a little earlier, till Judge Humphrey took his seat upon the bench, he and Gregory Powers were pitted against each other in most of the important cases in Portage and Medina Counties. They were both men of commanding presence, yet standing at the opposite extremes of manly dignity and beauty. Powers tall, lithe and excitable, yet always self-possessed. Humphrey cool and imperturbable, tall, large, though not unwieldy or fleshy, but full and rounded out at every point —a manifest embodiment of muscular strength. His manner was deliberate; his voice loud, clear, of large compass and never harsh. His sarcasm, not frequent, and seeming ever to be held back in reserve, and never sought after, always hit its mark. His humor was inexhaustible and spontaneous, and his wit forth-coming at will. His imagination was splendid, but would have been improved by early discipline. His arguments were not distinguished for consecutive reasoning, but they seemed to be guided by a kind of insight into the essential elements of his case, so that, if his imagination at any time outstripped his logic, there was an inner light that still lured him back to the essential points which he seldom failed so to group together and enlighten as to give

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 305

them effect. While Powers went directly to the leading points of his case and pressed them to their inevitable sequence, Humphrey swept in much of the surrounding mass, which, under his glowing imagination, took the color of his leading points. In a word, Judge Humphrey had just that broad foundation for a mental structure which early intellectual training would have made more readily available for logical argument.

And yet, as judge of the Court of Common Pleas, his decisions were remarkably correct. His quick and penetrative insight stood him in good stead there. His invariable kindness and impartiality, and the apparent ease with which he disposed of business, gave to his administration a general and hearty approval.

Christopher P. Wolcott was born in 1821, probably in Steubenville, Jefferson Co., Ohio. His father removed from Connecticut to that place some time prior to that date, it is believed. However, that may be, Steubenville was the home of his childhood and youth. His education, which was thoroughly classical, was received at several institutions, but lastly, at Jefferson College, Pennsylvania. He studied law under the Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, our distinguished Secretary of war during the rebellion. In the spring of 1846, he formed a partnership with W. S. C. Otis, Esq., of Akron, to which place he immediately removed his residence. The chief indications he then gave of the eminence which he afterward attained, were his accurate knowledge of legal principles, the completeness of whatever pleading or other written document came from his hands, and the very careful preparation of his briefs. It was apparent that he distrusted himself before a jury and felt far more confidence in his ability to address the court. In truth, diffidence of his own powers was then his besetting impediment. Indeed, it was not till he had toiled under tortured sensibilities through a busy and laborious practice of several years that. he had so shaken off this nightmare as to give full play to his forensic powers. He had given proof in many cases of ability to go through an extended statement of logical inferences with extraordinary clearness and force on questions of law, yet his efforts before a jury had always seemed constrained1 and painful. But at length in the libel case of Wilson vs. Blake, in Common Pleas, November term, 1852, he broke entirely away from his self-consciousness, and abandoned himself with burning energy to the full flow of a warm imagination. The court and bar were taken by surprise, and the verdict showed that nothing had been wasted on the jury.

The trial of Parks for murder, in December, 1853, was the next occasion that aroused the energies of Mr. Wolcott to their highest pitch. For him it was simply a medium of thought; and in his handling it became as transparent as the air. But the argument which stands, and forever must stand, as the monument of Mr. Wolcott's intellectual power and of his high attainments as. a lawyer, was delivered as Attorney General of Ohio before the Judges of our Supreme Court at Chambers on two writs of habeas corpus, in the cases ex parte Bushnell and ex parte Langston, in May, 1859. It is reported in 9 Ohio State reports, page 9'7, covering eighty-three pages.

In the summer of 1856, Mr. Wolcott was appointed Attorney General of this State by the Governor, to fill a vacancy in that office occasioned by the death of F. D. Kimball. He was elected to the same office in 1857, and continued to discharge his duties with distinguished ability until February, 1860. On the breaking out of the rebellion in 1861, the enlistment of volunteers fox the military service was an easy matter. But in a movement so sudden, so extensive and multitudinous, it was no easy matter to bring order and system out of chaos and irrepressible haste and confusion. In this emergency, Mr. Wolcott spent much of that year in aiding Gov. Dennison to regulate and systematize the military operations of our State. Early in 1862 his brother-in-law, Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, having been appointed Secretary of War, Mr. Wolcott was appointed Assistant Secretary of War. It would be superfluous to speak of the labors which the war of the rebellion imposed upon that department of the Government. Mr. Wolcott's sleepless devotion to his official duties—the indefatigable energy with which he plied both mind and body in that service, soon wore him out. He died in the summer of 1862, a martyr to his country's cause.

306 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

Isaiah Humphrey, after serving a term in the United States Army in fighting Indians and passing through the various vicissitudes of guarding our Western frontiers, settled down upon a farm in the township of Boston, some fifteen miles from Akron. In the process of clearing up his land and applying his labors as a new farm exacts them of a husbandman, he thought there were minutes and interstices of time, which without damage to his agriculture, he could devote to the enlargement of his mind. He had a retentive memory. was a natural humorist, had a keen sense of the ludicrous, a perpetual fountain of ready wit, a rare knack at narration whether of anecdotes or of sober facts, and a good understanding, which, with persevering effort. could be disciplined for logical reasoning. Here was a foundation for a lawyer. The distance of his residence from the county seat and its proximity to the Ohio Canal where lawsuits within a justices' jurisdiction were necessarily frequent. would of course often put in requisition a combination of such mental qualities in aid of distressed litigants. Amid importunities of this kind, Mr. Humphrey took up the study of the law wider his brother. Judge Van R. Humphrey, of Hudson. Meanwhile his farm and his family occupied his time as usual. His legal studies having been pursued some miles from Judge Humphrey's office. it very naturally happened that on his admission to the bar he found himself much abler in the general principles of the law than in matters of legal practice, which require skill that comes only with use.

It followed, of course, that in the Common Pleas Mr. Humphrey's pleadings were often defective and involved in perplexities. But his ; impurturbable coolness, good nature and tact got the better of them with occasional loss of time, which to the court and bar was amply compensated by the interludes of wit and humor that seemed to flash out in proportion as perplexities thickened. He did not leave his farm, but with his farming went through many a lively wrangle in his profession. He died about April, 1877, sincerely lamented by his brethren of the bar.

Wolsey Wells' card is found in the Portage Journal then published at Middlebury in 1827,giving notice that he had opened a law office at Akron in the hotel. The same paper informs us that the first boat on the Ohio Canal reached Akron July 2, 1827, having on board Gov. Trimble on his way to celebrate the opening of the canal to navigation, at Cleveland on the 4th of July. Gov. Trimble was welcomed to Akron in a speech by Wolsey Wells, Esq. In 1835, Mr. Wells was in law practice in company with Harvey Birch, Esq., at Elyria. After some years, practice at Elyria, he migrated to one of the northwestern counties of Ohio, as agent of the State for the sale of public lands. It is reported that he died there a few years since. He was a lawyer of fine abilities and the strictest integrity. He took an active part in the anti-slavery and temperance reforms, in which he was out spoken and disdained all compromise.

George Bliss was a native of Vermont and came to Ohio quite young. He commenced the study of law about 1841. in the office of Hand & Carter, and was admitted to the bar about 1843. His examination for admission was, with several other candidates, in the Supreme Court at Medina; and his thorough understanding of legal principles and practice was remarked on by the committee in their retirement as preeminent among the candidates, and as the harbinger of certain success in his profession. He very soon rose to distinction and formed a partnership with D. K. Cartter (now Judge of the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia), their office being in Akron. He had a voice of remarkable smoothness. It was of the kind which Cicero seems to have meant by his vox argeateu. It was a ringing, metallic voice, sliding through gradations so easily and coming forth in full volume with' such apparent spontaneity, that it never wearied the hearer however long continued.

A vacancy occurring in the Common Pleas judgeship of this district 1850, Mr. Bliss was a candidate for election to that office by the Legislature of 1849-50. There were two other candidates. After numerous fruitless votes were taken, no candidate having received a majority, the Legislature gave the election the go by, and adjourned leaving the vacancy unfilled. The Governor of Ohio being then of

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 307

the Democratic party, appointed Mr. Bliss to the office. The short time he held it was long enough to fix the general opinion of the bar that his administration of it, if continued for another term, would give general satisfaction.

 In 1852, Mr. Bliss was elected to the House of Representatives in Congress by the Democrotic party. Akron until about 1860, when he removed to Wooster. He continued the practice of his profession these until his death about 1875.

Lucius V. Bierce was born in Connecticut. He came to Ohio with his father's family when a lad. He entered the Ohio University at Athens, in Athens County, where he graduated at the termination of the customary college course. He taught some years in one or more of the Southern States, and then returned to Ohio and studied law. On being admitted to the bar he opened a law office at Ravenna, in Portage County. He was a very fluent and rapid speaker, had great facility in drafting and readiness in the dispatch of business. He soon became very popular as a lawyer, and was elected Prosecuting Attorney several terms in succession. About the year 1836, he removed his office to Akron, which was then in Portage County. where he continued his professional practice until the war of the rebellion broke out.

Gen. Bierce was neither an extensive nor a profound reader of law. His chief characteristic as a lawyer lay in his extraordinary tact and ingenuity in putting his adversary in a false position. When his opponent had made out a clear case and set down with confidence that it was standing in such blazing sunlight that no mists could be conjured up to darken it. Gen. Bierce was on his feet. Of all occasions for calling up his magic skill that was the one. Then all sorts of odd combinations of the law and facts which could make the false resemble the true were held up to the gaze of the jury. Hints, suggestions, imaginings, possibilities outside and inside of the case—the winged missives seemed to fill the air and flap in every juror's face, and it was good luck for justice and innocence if some of them did not lodge in the breast of many a juryman and puzzle the whole panel, in spitea lucid charge from the court and all the sunshine that had blazed upon the case. Yet, take him as he was, no member of the Summit bar was so dreaded before a jury as Gen. Bierce. He was never thrown off his guard—never discomposed. The most threatening discomfiture found him on his feet ready to repel the onset.

In 1861, he was elected to the Senate of Ohio by the Republicans of Summit and Portage Counties. He took a very active part in raising troops for the Union in the late war; and in 1863 he was appointed Assistant Adjutant General of Ohio, and discharged the arduous duties of that office with faultless exactitude. As a citizen and neighbor, Gen. Bierce was public-spirited, obliging and generous. He died November, 1876, and was buried with military honors.

John Harris, Jr., was born at Canton, Stark County, November 26, 1823. He was classically educated at Western Reserve College, of which he was a graduate. He studied law under his father's tuition at Canton, and opened a law office at Akron about 1845. His health was delicate. He, however, showed himself fully competent in his profession. With abundant intellectual power to carry him through a contest, he shrank from the rough collisions which coarser natures often invited. Experience, however, would have given to his sensibility a recoil against coarse and ill-tempered thrusts all the more wounding to an aggressor, because it came unsuspected, from a keen and concealed weapon. Had he lived, he would have taken a high stand in the profession, which all his practice would have tended to dignify and refine. He died at Canton March 12, 1855.

Harvey Whedon was born at Litchfield, Conn., in 1812. He opened a law office in Hudson, Ohio, probably in 1838. He soon acquired a good office practice, and a reasonable share of practice in the courts of this county. A. well-read, industrious lawyer, of good judgment, he was often consulted, and acquired a reputation of a safe counselor. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Summit County in 1852, and faithfully discharged the duties of that office for the constitutional term of two years. Mr. Whedon was a man of undoubted

308 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

integrity and of solid worth. He died of typhoid fever August 29, 1855.

W. S. C. Otis was born in Cnmmington, Mass. He entered Williams College, where he took a high stand as a scholar, but left the college some time in his senior year, and, for awhile, followed teaching. In 1831, he entered the law office of Whittlesey & Newton, at Canfield, Mahoning County, and continued there with unremitting application till he was admitted to the practice of law in Ohio in 1833. Soon after his admission, he became a partner in his profession with Hon. Jonathan Sloane, of Ravenna. Mr. Otis' strength lay in his keenly discriminative perceptions, his ample powers of deduction, and the tenacity with which he held to the controlling points in his case, drawing from them alone its ultimate conclusions, and guarding every such point as no one could do who had not viewed and reviewed every phase of the matter in hand. As an advocate, his voice and action brought him little aid. He had great earnestness, a ready memory, spoke fluently and always to the point, though somewhat wordily. His facts and arguments were laid out with rare skill and judgment. To the court and the bar, however, he was much better known as a lawyer than as an advocate. In argument, whether to the court or jury, he was fond of making historical or classical allusions, which were always well selected and came in with happy effect. His ambition, when he began his profession, was very high, and, so far as eminence at the bar went, it was certainly not disappointed.

Mr. Otis was elected Prosecuting Attorney for Summit County, in 1844, and, in 1850, he was elected as a delegate from this county to the Constitutional Convention which framed the Constitution of Ohio now in force. Outside. of his profession, he was a man of large intelligence—a diligent reader of history, of the current literature of the times, of the classics, both ancient and modern, and of the Book above all books. He always kept up a close acquaintance with the ancient authors, both Greek and Latin, in their original tongues. Not long before his last illness, he published a pamphlet containing an examination into the common translation of a passage in one ofthe epistles of the New Testament, drawing his conclusions from a critical acquaintance with the original Greek. In truth, from the beginning of his professional life, and we know not how much longer, he made the study. of the Bible a specialty.

About 1842, Mr. Otis removed his residence from Ravenna to Akron, where he continued his professional practice. He was elected President of the first bank established in Akron, and held that office for some years. About 1875, he suffered from a paralytic shock, from which he so far recovered as to give attention to his extensive business till 1877, when a second stroke of palsy gave warning that his work was done. He died leaving his widow and family amply provided for.

William M. Dodge was born January 2, 1805, in the State of New York. He obtained a good English education at the common schools of his native place. He came to Ohio probably about 1828; studied law in Geauga County, and was admitted to the bar probably in 1830. Not long afterward, he took up his residence at Middlebury, and there opened a law office. After a short residence there, he settled in Akron, where he continued his professional business until he was elected Probate Judge of Summit County, in 1860. He had before then held the office of Prosecuting Attorney for Summit County, having been elected to it in 1842, and discharged its duties satisfactorily through the term. Mr. Dodge was a public-spirited citizen. He took a very active part in the organization of the Akron school. system. He was especially efficient as a member of the Board of Directors, in all that pertained to building, or otherwise providing schoolhouses. In all such matters, he was a man of first-rate judgment, and he bent himself to the gratuitous work with untiring zeal. He died July 22, 1861.

William H. Gaston had been a school-teacher. At what time or where he studied law r was admitted to the bar, is not known. In 1844, he was doing business as a lawyer, in company with W. S. C. Otis, at Akron. He gave himself to the work of the law office with unremitting diligence. He was a lawyer of a clear head, and of power to grasp and handle a matter of manifold complications in chan-

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 309

cery and was ambitious to rise in his profession. But a fatal disease seized upon his lungs and took him from the jarring crowds of suitors and lawyers, and jurors, and courts, and all the varied tumults of earthly things.

James D. Taylor was born at Youngstown, Mahoning County, November 24, 1816. He was admitted to the bar at Gallipolis, whither he rode on horseback for that purpose. About 1845, he entered into partnership with Henry W. King, Esq., of Akron, where he immediately fixed his residence. The firm carried on a prosperous business till about 1850, when, the health of both partners declining, their partnership was dissolved. Mr. Taylor's illness was pulmonary. He spent some time in the Southern States, in hopes, by help of a favorable climate, to overcome the malady which was wasting him away. It was sadly in vain. He died at Enterprise, Fla., March 23, 1855. While residing at Akron, he was married to Miss Isabella Howard, now Mrs. James Mathews, of Akron. Mr. Taylor was an industrious, clear-headed lawyer. He had a sprightly imagination, a keen, well-disciplined intellect. A comely person, a good memory and ready command of language, an easy delivery, free but always graceful and appropriate gestures, a soft though not very sonorous voice, an animated countenance, and a wit that could make a home-thrust almost in a whisper, made him one of the most winning speakers of the time.

But, better than all, a keen sense of honor and integrity above suspicion, seemed to add security and a high and commanding value to all the mental qualities of the man. His death, and its melancholy surroundings—far from home, where his wife was detained with a sick child—shed a deep and lasting sorrow throughout his acquaintance.

Charles G. Ladd was a native of Vermont. He came to Ohio in his youth, and read law with his brother-in-law, Gen. L. V. Bierce, with whom, after being admitted to practice, he became a partner, in the firm of Bierce & Ladd. With no shining advantages, Mr. Ladd soon began to show what influence can be obtained over common minds by self-assurance, and apparently an undoubting confidence that one's own knowledge is one's own exclusively,and can be shared in by others only as he himself imparts it. This quality of unflinching boldness he used with the address and tact of a master. He entered the arena of politics simultaneously with that of his profession, youthful as he was, and very soon passed through a succession of minor trusts and offices, all of which he discharged faithfully and with fair ability.

On the adoption of our present constitution, in 1851, he was elected to the office of Probate Judge of Summit County in October of that year, but died in the following winter, without entering upon the duties of the office.

Rolland O. Hammond was born in Bath Township, in Summit County. He displayed in his childhood rare aptness in learning—so much so that his parents singled him out from among a large family of children for a liberal education. He fitted for entering a college course at the Preparatory Department of the Western Reserve College, which he entered in due time, and, in the regular progress of classical and mathematical studies, showed brilliant powers of acquisition. Chafing against the common restraints of a college upon his irregularities, he left that institution and entered Oberlin College. Finding the restraints there quite as stringent as those at Western Reserve, he took leave of Oberlin some time in his junior year. Not long afterward, in the winter of 1846-47, he commenced the study of law in the office of Carpenter & McClure, at Almon. He mastered the customary textbooks with great facility, and, at the end of the statutory two years of law-reading, was admitted to the bar.

A brief run of practice revealed in him the elements of a fine legal mind, and a ready tact at picking up business and inspiring confidence in his clients. But such guaranties of success were weakened by a ceaseless itching for office and the wonted intrigues to secure it. In mid-career, however, a fatal disease settled upon his brain, from which, after a lingering illness, he died, in 1868, leaving a widow and one daughter, and his memory for their heritage.

George Kirkum was a native of Connecticut. He was for many years Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of Portage County, before the erection of Summit. His skill in putting

310 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

in order and systematizing the affairs of the office of Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas was of public utility. In 1838, Mr. Kirkum was elected to the House of Representatives of Ohio, from the county of Portage. The special interest his election was expected to subserve was the erection of Summit County out of Portage, Stark, Wayne and Medina Counties. Though a man of large influence in a popular body, so strong was the opposition that his indefatigable labors failed to carry the measure through the Legislature.

About the same time, Mr. Kirkum took up his residence in Akron, where he opened a law office and practiced his calling for several years. His health failing, he moved his residence to his farm in Norton Township, which he managed for a few years, and then moved to another farm in the vicinity of Cleveland. All the while, his inevitable tormentor, dyspepsia, followed him up, till he died at his last-mentioned home some years since.

Frederick S. Hanford was born at Cuyahoga Falls, and was educated at Western Reserve College, where he graduated with distinguished honors. He studied law in the office of McKinney &. Tibbals in Akron, and at the Columbia Law School in New York City, where he was admitted to practice May 12, 1869. He entered into a law partnership with Hon. S. C. Williamson (now Probate Judge of Summit County), and afterward with Hon. N. D. Tibbals (now Judge of the Court of Common Pleas). He rose rapidly in practice. But, suffering from hemorrhage of the lungs, he spent some months in Colorado in hopes of invigorating his health by change of climate. On returning to professional labor, hemorrhages followed from time to time with fatal effect. He died at the home of his father-in-law in Ashland, Ohio, January 29, 1879.

Henry William King, son of the late Hon. Leicester King, of Ohio, was born at Westfield, Mass., September 24, 1815. He was brought to Warren, Trumbull County, when his parents settled there, in 1817. He was fitted for college partly at Warren and partly at Hartford, Conn., where he entered Washington (now Trinity) College, and graduated August 4, 1836. He studied law with the late Hon. Milton Sutliff at Warren, and also at the Cincinnati Law School, under Judge Walker. He was admitted to the bar at Gallipolis in February, 1839. In the fall of the same year, he opened a law office at Akron, Summit County. June 1, 1844, he formed a law partnership with James D. Taylor, which was dissolved June 1, 1849, on account of the failing health of Mr. Taylor, who immediately removed to Peru, Ill., where, his health improving, he carried on a very prosperous law business for a few years, until his pulmonary weakness could undergo the wear of strife no longer.

Meanwhile, Mr. King entered into partner-ship with his brother, David L. King, and vigorously pursued the business of the profession. In 1850, the Legislature of Ohio elected him Secretary of State. The duties of this office he discharged for two years with his customary exactness and punctuality. Mr. King was an indefatigable worker. He shrank from no legal drudgery. This intense labor, how-ever. bore down upon a constitution never strong, until I853, when his health gave way, and he was therefore compelled to relinquish his professional practice. As a means of recovering, he betook himself to a more active life in open air. at Snamico, in the lumber regions of Wisconsin. He also tried a sea voyage, one or more. at mackerel fishing, and a voyage to the Bermudas. But his malady had laid fast hold on his life, and, in spite of remedies, and hopeful friends, and their tenderest cares, and the watchful nursing of her who for years had held her own life second to his, on the 20th of November, 1857, he left all for another and a better life.

The following are the names of lawyers who once practiced in Summit County, but who are still living elsewhere, or of whose decease we have no certain knowledge: Rufus P. Spalding, a native of Connecticut, graduate of Yale College, was one of the Supreme Judges of Ohio, when our State constitution took effect in 1851. He represented this district in Congress three successive terms, beginning in 1862; and now enjoys a healthy old age in Cleveland. Daniel R: Tilden, a native of Connecticut, began business as a lawyer in Portage County about 1836; was twice elected to Congress from this district.

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 311

He opened a law office in Akron about the winter of 1847-48; removed to Cleveland about 1850; was elected Probate Judge of Cuyahoga County in 1831, and has held that office without interruption ever since. Abel B. Berry, a native of New Hampshire, graduate at Dartmouth College, and was admitted to practice in New England; came to Akron in 1844; read law one year in the office of Judge Spalding, and was admitted to practice in Ohio in 1843. He opened a law office in Akron, and after a few years returned to New England, and is now practicing law in Boston, Mass. Alvah Hand opened a law office in Akron about 1827; removed to Oshkosh. Wis., many years since. Seneca L. Hand kept a law office in Middllebury (now Sixth Ward, Akron), from about 1828 till about 1851. when he moved to Dubuque, Iowa Frederick A. Nash was for some years a partner in law business with Seneca L. Hand: afterward with N. W. Goodhue. Esq.. and still later with Messrs. King & Green. For the last twelve years or so. he has resided at Brattleboro, Vt. Philemon Bliss, a native of Central New York, and liberally educated there. opened a law office at Cuyahoga Falls about 184]. After a practice there of some three or four years, he removed to Elyria. Lorain County. and there continued his law practice. While residing there he was twice elected to Congress. After some years' service in a Territorial judgeship, he took up his residence in Missouri and became one of the Supreme Judges of that State. He has recently published a book of some note on code pleading, and is Professor of Law in the Missouri State University. H H. Johnson kept a law office some years in Akron. but, upon the erection of the county of Ashland, he took up his residence and pursued his law practice at Ashland, the county seat of that county, where he was soon afterward elected to the House of Representatives in Congress. David K. Cartter is a native of Western New York, where he was admitted to the ban He opened a law Office in Akron about 1837, and removed to Massillon, Stark County, about 1845. He was elected to Congress in 1848, and again in 1850. Early in Mr. Lincoln's administration Lie was appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia; and is still the incumbent of that office. Henry McKinney was born in Portage County, Ohio; studied law under Judge S. W. McClure at Cuyahoga Falls, was admitted to the bar and entered into partnership with him in 1850. After some years he removed his residence to Akron, where he formed a partnership with Judge N. D. Tibbals. He was elected to the Senate of Ohio in 1869, and, in 1871, he removed his residence to Cleveland. John A. Pleasants is a native of Virginia. He settled in Akron in 1848, where he practiced law for several years, and then returned to Virginia. Charles Baldwin entered into a law partnership with Gen. L. V. Bierce, of Akron, about 1859 or 1860. He continued in that partnership till the General's appointment to the office of Assistant Adjutant General, when he a few years later removed to Omaha, Neb. Wilbur F. Sanders was born in New York, and read law under Hon. Sidney Edgerton, at Akron. He was admitted to practice and formed a law partnership with Gov. Edgerton in 1857. Upon Gov. Edgerton's appointment as Judge for the Territory of Idaho, Mr. Sanders became a resident of that part of the Territory now included in Montana, where he has been in practice as a lawyer ever since. Charles Rhinehart was born in Hopkinton, N. Y. He was elected Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of Summit County in 1863; and was re-elected in 1866. At the end of the second term of that office, he opened a law office in Akron, where he continued practice till the fall of 1880, when he removed to Denver, Colo. Eugene Pardee was born in Wadsworth, Medina Co., Ohio; read law under Judge Van R. Humphrey at Hudson. He resided respectively in Wadsworth, Wooster and Akron, where he practiced his profession, and, in 1880, again removed to Wooster, where at present he resides.

[This closes the sketch of the bar of the past, of Summit County, and brings us down to those now living. As the present members of the bar have biographical sketches in another department of this work, we deem it unnecessary to repeat the same in this chapter. One of the oldest representatives of the present bar is Judge McClure, and to whose biograph-

312 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

ical sketch the reader is referred, as unto most of the others following.—ED.].

Judge James S. Carpenter studied law with Camp & Canfield, at Medina, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar May 29, 1838, at Springfield, Ohio. He came to Akron in 1846, and has practiced here ever since. Judge C. Bryan located in Akron in the fall of 1833, and was admitted to the bar in Columbus in 1834. Hon. Sidney Edgerton. (See biographical sketch.) Judge S. H. Pitkin studied law in Fulton County, Ill., and was admitted to the bar at Lewiston (same county) about 1836, and came to this county in 1852. William H. Upson (see biographical sketch), was admitted to to the bar at Cleveland in September, 1845: Edward Oviatt, in September, 1846, at Medina; N. W. Goodhue, at the September term of the Supreme Court, at Akron, in 1847; Edwin P. Greene, at Akron, in September, 1852; Judge N. D. Tibballs, at Akron, in September, 1855; John J. Hall, at Canton, Ohio, in May, 1857; Gen. A. C. Voris (see biographical sketch elsewhere); J. A. Kohler was admitted to the bar in 1859; H. W. Ingersoll, at Columbus, March 29, 1859; Judge U. S. Marvin, in May, 1860; Gen. Thomas F. Wilde, at Cincinnati, in 1866; Calvin P. Humphrey was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1866; Edwin W. Stuart, at Cleveland, in 1866; H. C. Sanford, at Ravenna, in April, 1868; George T. Ford, in 1869; Newton Chalker graduated from the Law Department of the University of Albany in 1869; James M. Poulson was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1870; G. K. Pardee, in 1870 ; George S. May, in 1872; Richard P. Marvin, in May, 1873; John H. Campbell graduated from the Law Department of the Michigan University in 1873; Charles Baird was admitted to the bar about the year 1874; John M. Fraze, at Louisville, Ky., in 1874; Charles R. Grant, in December, 1874; Newton Ford, at Akron, in August, 1876 ; Noah Hodge was admitted to practice in the Superior Court of Mississippi, in January, 1875; John C. Means was admitted to the bar in the District 'Court of Summit County, in August, 1876; John Johnston was admitted to the bar in 1876; James McNaughten was admitted to the bar in 1876; Charles Robinson, at Columbus, in December, 1877; E. T. Voris, at Cleveland, in October, 1877; J. V. Welsh, at New Lisbon, Ohio, May 26, 1877; L. D. Seward, in 1878; R. J. Young, in June, 1879; Rolin W. Saddler, in April, 1878; Frank D. Cassidy, in March, 1879; Charles W. Foote, at Wooster, in June, 1879; L. D. Watters, March 17, 1879 ; D. A. Doyle, in May, 1880; F. M. Atterholt, October 5, 1880; A. F. Bartges (see sketch).

[The following sketch of the medical profession of Summit County, is by Dr. A. K. Fouser.—ED.]

The history of the medical profession in Summit County dates back to the year 1800, or the time of the earliest settlements, the demands for a doctor's services being then as now proportionate with the spread of civilization. The New England and Middle States having furnished most if not all of our earliest physicians, we have only to look at the history of the profession in those States to become acquainted with the material which made up the pioneer doctors of this county. At, and previous to, the period before mentioned, the greater number of the physicians in the East were what are called " regulars " —those who bled, blistered, gave calomel, jalap, tartar-emetic and the like. Homeopathy was scarcely known on this side of the Atlantic, while Thomsonianism, hydropathy, physiopathy, thermalism, magnetism and kindred dogmas had not yet found their way into the world.

But without entering into an extended description of the different systems in vogue, then and now, we will pass to the local history of the different towns and townships, giving as nearly as possible the succession of physicians who have practiced in each with as much of their personal history as could be ascertained concerning the dead, and all that would be expedient of the living.

Dr. Titus Chapman was probably the first physician who practiced in the vicinity of what is now known as Akron. He came to Middlebury, now Sixth Ward of Akron, soon after the war of 1812, and practiced there about thirty years, after which he went to Tallmadge and thence to Oberlin where he died.

Dr. Luther Hanchett was born and educated in Connecticut, and after practicing in New York State a few years, came to Ohio, locating

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 313

in the vicinity of Middlebury while that place was yet in its infancy. He was born in 1778, and probably came to Akron about 1815. After practicing about twenty years, he removed to Michigan where he died in 1840. Dr. Elijah Hanchett, a brother, was born in Connecticut in 1776, and began practice in Saratoga County, N. Y., in 1798, where he remained until 1832, when at the solicitation of his brother, he came to Middlebury. He then practiced in the vicinity of Middlebury until 1836, when he removed to Tallmadge where he died in 1843.

Dr. Joseph Cole was probably the first regular practitioner of medicine in what was at that time Akron proper, and for many years was the " old standby " of the profession. He was born in Winfield, Herkimer Co., N. Y., in 1795, and lived on a farm until the age of twenty. He then began the study of and a few years later graduated from Fairfield Medical College in his native State. In 1824, he came to Ohio and located at Old Portage, in this county, where he practiced until 1827, at which time he came to Akron where he remained in practice until near the time of his death-1861.

Dr. Richmond came from Taunton, Mass., and settled in Akron about 1833. After practicing here for three or four years, he fell a victim to consumption, went to Kentucky and died soon afterward; his idea of going South was, " to die among strangers," as he expressed it. Dr. E. F. Bryan, brother of Judge Bryan, came to Akron in the summer of 1833, and remained until 1836 or 1837, going then to Granville, Licking County. He was a native of Delaware County, N. Y., and received his medical education at Yale College. Dr. Ackley came from Rochester, N. Y., about 1834, and practiced in Akron for a few years, going from here to Cleveland, where he became quite prominent in his profession, and in his connection with the medical college. Dr. Crosby came to Middlebury some time about 1835, and remained there and in Akron for a number of years. Though originally of the regular school of medicine, he latterly embraced the homoeopathic faith and made some pretentious toward practicing it. However, medicine was a secondary matter to him as most of his time and energies were spent in speculations of different kinds. Dr. Cleveland practiced in Akron between 1830 and 1840. Dr. D. D. Evans was a native of New York State; came to Akron in 1836, and practiced here until the time of his death which occurred in December, 1849. He was a doctor of more than ordinary ability for the time in which he lived, enjoyed a good reputation and an extensive practice; was universally esteemed, and for many years was the leading man in the profession of this section of the State. In connection with the death of Dr. Evans, a sad but very interesting circumstance is related, which in substance is as follows: While treating a case of malignant erysipelas at Cuyahoga Falls, Dr. Evans in some manner became infected with the poison and died within a few days thereafter. A post-mortem examination of Dr. Evans was made at which quite a number of physicians were present, and among them were Drs. Huntington and Angel, both of whom either became inoculated or absorbed the virus, the former dying within a few weeks, while the latter suffered immediate sloughing of one arm, and died from the poison a few years later. Nor was this all. A Mr. Chapman, a brother-in-law of Dr. Huntington, while nursing the doctor in his sickness, also absorbed the virus and died from its effects.

Dr. Kendrick came to Middlebury about 1837, and remained a few years. Dr. J. O. Wade practiced in Middlebury about the same time. Dr. Wyram West was also one of the early doctors in Middlebury. Dr. E. L. Munger, a native of Vermont, located in Akron about 1838, but after a few years removed to Portage County. Dr. Kilbourne (Botanic), came to Akron about 1838, and, after practicing about fifteen years, removed into Coventry Township and began farming. Some time after this his mind became somewhat deranged, and in a fit of temporary insanity he committed suicide on his own farm. Dr. W. T. Huntington, a native of Connecticut, located in Akron in 1839, and continued in practice until early in the year 1850, when he died as stated above.

Dr. Mendall Jewett was born in Greenwich, Mass., in 1815, and came to Ohio in 1836. He soon afterward began the study of medi-

314 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

cine with Drs. Noble and Town, of Hudson, and, in 1839, began practicing in Mogadore, then in Portage County, where he remained until 1858, in the meantime having taken a course of lectures at Willoughby Medical College, and graduated after that college had removed to Cleveland. He spent two years—1850 and 1851—in California, and, from 1855 to 1857, represented this county in the State Legislature. Since 1858 up to the present time, he has lived in Middlebury ( Sixth Ward of Akron), and has during all this time followed his profession, besides being engaged in other business.

Dr. William P. Cushman was born at Randolph, Vt., in 1810, and up to the age of twenty-two he worked on a farm during most of the time. In 1832, he went to New York State and taught school, and, in 1834, came to Ohio and attended school at Oberlin, at the same time reading medicine with Dr. Dascom. He afterward attended the Cincinnati Medical College, and, in 1838, began practicing his profession in Elyria, remaining there two years and then coming to Akron. He still lives in Alaon, but has retired from practice entirely.

Dr. E. W. Howard was born in Andover, Windsor Co., Vt., in 1818, and until the age of nineteen lived with his parents on a farm, securing in the meantime a liberal education at the Chester Academy. He then took a trip West. during which he visited his cousin, Prof. R. L. Howard, at Elyria, Ohio. and was by him persuaded to study medicine.. He at once began reading in the office of his cousin, where he continued until the following year. when he attended a course of lectures in Pittsfield, Mass. He then went home and read two years with Dr. L. G. Whiting, and. in 1838, graduated from the Berkshire Medical College, Pittsfield, Mass. After practicing one year with his preceptor, he came to Akron in 1839, and has since practiced here up to the present time, being now the oldest practitioner in the city. During the late war, he was sent South by Gov. Tod, and served several months in the hospitals at Frederick City, Md., and Nashville, Tenn.

Dr. Edwin Angel was born in Providence, R. I., in 1802, but when a few years old removed with his parents to Canandaigua, N. Y. At the age of fourteen, he entered Union College at Schenectady, and graduated two years later. He then began the study of medicine with his father, and soon afterward attended lectures, finishing his course at the age of nineteen years. He then practiced some as an assistant to Dr. Valentine Mott, and on becoming of age received his degree after which he returned to Canadaigna, and assisted his father. In 1840, he came to Akron, where he practiced until the time of his death. September. 1855. With his death passed away the last physician in a family which. for at least four generations. had been represented in the regular profession.

Dr. Samuel W. Bartges (Uriscopist.). was born in Union City. Penn.. in 1814. and. in .1833. came with his parents to Columbiana County, Ohio, where he was engaged for a few year' in a general merchand se store. In 1837, he began reading medicine with Dr. John Dellenbaugh, with whom he remained for fire years. during the last two of which he practiced to some extent. In 1842. he came to Akron. where he has continued to practice until the present time. Dr. Perkins Wallace came to Akron in 1843, and practiced here a short time.

Dr. William Sisler was born in Lycoming County, Penn.. in 1819. and at the age of twenty-one came to Manchester. in this county. where fox several years he was engaged in teaching school and working on a farm. In 1843, he began reading medicine with Dr. Fernando Dalwick. of Canal Fulton. Stark Co.. Ohio, and continued there until about 1846. when he returned to Manchester and began practicing. His brother, Adam. joined him soon after. and while one carried on their practice the other attended lectures. William graduating from Cleveland Medical College in 1851, and Adam in 1852. They then continued in practice together until 1873, when William came to Akron and engaged in the drag business which he carried on until 1879, when he sold out and since then has been practicing some in Akron besides being engaged in other business. He served three months in the hospitals during the late war, under the call of Gov. Tod, and, in 1867, was elected on the

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 315

Republican ticket as Representative in the State Legislature, serving one term.

Dr. John Weimer was born in Alsace, France, in 1813, and at the age of nineteen came to America. After working in a store several months in Buffalo, he went to Baltimore. Stark Co.. Ohio, and began the study of medicine with Dr. W. Underwood, with whom he read two years, and then one year with Dr. Breisacher, of Canton, Ohio. In 1836, he located in Uniontown. Stark Co., Ohio, where he continued in practice until 1847, coming then to Akron, where he has continued to the present day.

Dr. J. W. Hamilton, now Professor of Surgery in Columbus Medical College. practiced in Akron a short time about 1850. Dr. Joseph Stanton, brother of Prof. Dr. Byron Stanton, of Cincinnati. came to Akron about 1850: practiced four or five years and died. Dr. Alexander Fisher, for several years a practitioner of Western Star. came to Akron soon after the death of Dr. Evans, and remained several years. He then went West and is now in Chicago. Dr. J. P. Peck read medicine with Drs. Evans and Angel: graduated from Cleveland Medical College, and located in Akron about 1852. He practiced here several years in partnership with Dr. Fisher. and then went West, being at present a resident of Omaha. Dr. J. S. Wilson came to Akron about 1856 or 1857. as a successor to Dr. Fisher. and remained a few years. Dr. J. J. Smith was born in Springfield Township, this county, in 1820. Graduated from Medical Department of University of Michigan in 1855. Practiced six months in Toledo, and located in Akron in 1856.

Dr. William Bowen was born in Genesee County. N. Y., in 1805. As soon as he had attained a suitable age, he was apprenticed to a carpenter, and, at the completion of his service, came West and settled in Stark County, Ohio, where for several years he worked at his trade, at the same time improving his spare moments in acquiring an education. Having attended school a short time, he began teaching and soon afterward took up the study of medicine with Dr. Estep, but, owing to limited means, was obliged to continue his teaching in connection with his professional reading. In 1832, he began practice in Doylestown, Wayne County, where he remained until 1835. He then attended lectures and graduated at the Medical College of Ohio, receiving his degree in 1836. He then practiced two years in Canton, Ohio, going next to Massillon, where he practiced nearly twenty years, gaining in that time an extensive practice and wide-spread reputation. In 1857, he came to Akron, and continued in active practice until the time of his death. January, 1880.

Dr. George P. Ashman was a native of St. Lawrence County, N. Y., and, in 1834, came to Tallmadge. in this county. In 1836. he began the study of medicine with Dr. Amos Wright. of that place, and, in 1839, graduated from Cleveland Medical College. Practiced one year in Uniontown. Stark County; five years in Boston, Summit County, and then in Hudson, Summit County, for nine years. In 1862, entered the army and served two years as Surgeon of the Ninety-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but, in 1864, resigned and returned home, after which he practiced in Akron till the time of his death, in 1873.

Dr. J. A. Knowlton was born in Vermont in 1824. and received his early education in Rut-land. Began reading medicine with Dr. Crittenden, of Kent, Ohio, in 1841, and four years later graduated from Cleveland Medical College. Practiced in Portage County until 1863. and since then has been in Akron. Of late years he has given up the regular practice, and devoted his attention principally to the drug business and treatment of chronic diseases.

Dr. Charles R. Merriman was born in Dalton. Berkshire Co., Mass., in 1829, but while quite young came with his parents to this county. His early education was obtained at the schools of Akron, Farmington and Norwalk, and, in 1847,. he began the study of medicine with Dr. Huntington, of Akron. Attended Cleveland Medical College in 1849, after which he practiced in Kentucky and Missouri until 1857, when he returned to Ohio and took another course of lectures, graduating in the spring of 1858. He then practiced a short time at Peninsula and Montrose, and

316 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

then went West practicing at Virginia City and Helena until 1865, when he returned to Montrose. Practiced there until 1873, and then removed to Akron, where he has since remained. Dr. Charles R. Pierce came to Akron about 1858, and practiced until 1862, when he entered the service as Assistant Surgeon. Died in 1863.

Dr. B. S. Chase was born in Vermont in 1834, and was brought up on a farm until he became of age, receiving in the meantime a liberal education at the Chester Academy. About 1856, he began reading medicine with Drs. Andrews and Woodman, of Paw Paw, Mich., and after taking one course of lectures came to Akron and continued his studies with his uncle, Dr. E. W. Howard. In 1856, he graduated from University of Michigan, following which he practiced with Dr. Howard until 1862, when he entered the army as Assistant Surgeon of the Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In June, 1863, he was promoted to Surgeon and was transferred to the Fifty-third Mississippi Colored Regiment, with whom he served until the close of the war, becoming very popular as a Surgeon as well as a soldier. He served on the Operating Board at the battles of Chickasaw Bayou, and at the siege of Vicksburg. At the close of the war he located in Akron, where he continued in practice until the time of his death, February, 18'78.

Dr. T. M. Leight is a native of Snyder County, Penn., and was born in 1827. When twenty years of age, he began reading medicine, and after four or five years office tuition began practicing at McKees Falls in his native county. He remained here about nine years, within which time he attended lectures in Phil adelphia a month or two each year, graduating from Jefferson Medical College in July, 1857. He then practiced about seven years at Mifflin, Penn., after which he came to Akron, where he is at present.

Dr. Thomas McEbright was born at Carlisle, Penn., in 1824, but at an early age came with his parents to Wayne County, Ohio, where he was brought up on a farm until the age of sixteen, after which he attended the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. In 1848, he began reading medicine with Dr. I. H. Baker, of Wooster, and, in 1850, graduated from Starling Medical College, at Columbus, Ohio. Practiced seven years at Nashville, Ohio, and then removed to Millersburg, where he remained until 1861, going then into the army as Surgeon of the Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After serving with the regiment two years, he resigned and came home, but soon after raised the Fifty-ninth Battalion, and, upon the call of the " hundred days' men," his battalion was attached to the One Hundred and Sixty-sixth Regiment, of which he was made Colonel, a position which he resigned in favor of Col. Blake, the doctor preferring to be Surgeon. He was afterward made Brigade Surgeon and detailed as Chief of the Operating Board. In 1864, he was mustered out with his regiment and soon afterward came to Akron, where he is still in active practice.

Dr. W. C. Jacobs is a native of Lima. Ohio, and was born in 1840. His early life was spent in his native village and on a farm. At the age of sixteen he was appointed a cadet midshipman, and attended school at Annapolis until 1859, when he resigned and began the study of medicine with Dr. Carson, of Cincinnati. In March, 1862, he graduated from Medical College of Ohio at Cincinnati, and in the following month was appointed Assistant Surgeon of the Fourth Ohio Cavalry, with whom he served until December, when he was promoted to Surgeon and assigned to the Eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry. With this regiment he remained until the close of the war, and during the Atlanta campaign, served on the Operating Board of the Sixteenth Army Corps. In October, 1865, he came to Akron, where he has since followed his profession.

Dr. W. J. Underwood was born in York County, Penn., in 1840, and received his early education in the common and select schools of the period. At the age of twenty, he began reading medicine with Dr. Ira Day, of Mechanicsburg, and the next year attended a course of lectures at Jefferson Medical College. In 1862, he went into the army as Assistant Surgeon, serving with the Nineteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia a short time, and then with the One Hundred and Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers during

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 317

the latter's term of enlistment. He then completed his course at Jefferson Medical College, and in the same spring (1864) came to Ohio. Practiced at Canal Fulton two years, and then came to Akron, where he still remains.

Dr. Elizur Hitchcock was born in Tallmadge Township in 1832, and up to the age of eighteen worked on his father's farm and attended the common and select schools of the neighborhood. He then entered the Western Reserve College, where he remained two years, going thence to Yale, graduating from the latter in 1854. After spending several years in teaching, he began reading medicine and graduated from the Cleveland Medical College in 1860. He then practiced three years in Ashtabula County, and, in the spring of 1863, entered the army as Surgeon of the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but after a service of six months resigned and came home and located at West Williamsfield, Ashtabula County. continuing there until 1869. He then attended a course of lectures in New York City, and, in 1870, came to Akron, where he has since been practicing.

Dr. A. E. Foltz was born in Wayne County, Ohio. in 1840, and at the age of seventeen began teaching school. in which calling he continued until 1862. In July of the same year, he, with four of his brothers, enlisted in the One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving with the regiment until the close of the war. In 1869, he began reading medicine with his brother, Dr. W. K. Foltz, of Sharon Center, Medina County, and, in 1869, graduated at Charity Hospital Medical College in Cleveland. Practiced one year at Ashland and then came to Akron. where he has since followed his profession.

Dr. L. S. Ebright was born at Royalton, Fairfield County, Ohio. in 1844, and received his early education in the common schools of his native town. He served his country during the rebellion, and after its close began the study of medicine with his uncle, Dr. Thomas McEbright, of Akron. graduating from Charity Hospital Medical College in 1869 or 1870, since which time he has practiced in Akron. Is quite a politician, and is now (1881) a member of the State Legislature.

Dr S. T. Odell was born at Bellville, Ind., in 1842, and received his preliminary education at Bellville Academy. In 1861, he entered the army, serving until 1863 with the Eleventh Indiana (Zouaves), and the balance of his term with the Fifty-third United States Colored Troops, of which he was First Lieutenant and Adjutant. While connected with the latter regiment, he read medicine with the surgeon, Dr. B. S. Chase, of Akron, and at the close of his service—fall of 1865, attended a course of lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., and the next year attended his second course at the Rush Medical College, Chicago, graduating in 1867. After practicing a few years in Indiana and Kansas, he came to Akron (Sixth Ward) in 1870, and has since remained there in practice, with the exception of about one year.

Dr. H. C. Howard, son of Dr. E. W. Howard, was born in Akron in 1842, and graduated from the Akron High School in 1863. He then began the study of medicine with his father, graduated from Bellevue Hospital Medical College in 1871, and has since followed the profession with his father.

Dr. W. E. Chamberlin was born in Allegheny City in 1840, and was educated at Marietta (Ohio) High School. In 1854, he began the study of medicine with his father —then of Peninsula, in this county—and, from 1859 to 1861, assisted him in his profession. He then entered the army and served about one year, most of the time being detailed as physician and nurse. At the close of his service, he practiced in Portage County several years, and, in 1865, located at Clinton, in this county, where he remained until 1875, since which time he has practiced in Akron. During his stay in Clinton, he attended one course of lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., and one at Cleveland Medical College, receiving his degree from the latter in 1869.

Dr. O. E. Brownell was born in St. Lawrence County, N. Y., in 1855, but at an early age came with his parents to this county, receiving his early education in the common schools and Mount Vernon High School. In 1861, he entered the army and served eighteen months. He then read medicine with Dr. Sisler, of Manchester, attended a course of

318 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

lectures at Cleveland in 1868, practiced in Greensburg until 1878, and then came to Akron, where he is at present. He now pays most of his attention to dentistry.

Dr. A. F. Chandler was born in St. Lawrence County, N. Y., in 1845, but at an early age removed with his parents to Rockford, Ill. In 1863, he enlisted with the One Hundred and Forty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and served with the regiment until the close of the war. He then attended and graduated from Rockford High School, and, in 1847, began reading medicine with Dr. W. E. Chandler, of his own place. In March, 1871, he graduated from the Chicago Medical College, and in the following month located in Akron, where he has since practiced.

Dr. H D. Taggart was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1851, and received his early education in the common schools and the Hayesville Academy. Began reading medicine in the spring of 1870, with Doctor Roebuck, of his native town, Dalton, and, in 1874, graduated from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. He then located at Easton, Wayne County, remaining there six months, after which he came to Akron, where he has since continued in practice.

Dr. G. G. Baker was born in Norwalk, Ohio, in 1849, and received his education at the common schools of that place and at Western Reserve College. In 1868, he began reading medicine with Drs. Read and Ford, of Norwalk, and, in 1872, came to Akron and entered the office of Dr. Ashmun. In June, 1875, he graduated from the Medical Department of Michigan University, and since that time has been practicing in Akron.

Dr. H M. Fisher was born in Warren, Penn., in 1848, and received his education in the Franklin and Warren Academies and Allegheny College. In 1867, he began reading medicine with Dr. Stranahan, of his native town, and, in 1872, graduated from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. After practicing in his native town a few months, he came to Akron, where he also remained a few months, going next to Allegheny City. In 1876, he returned to Akron and continues there at this time.

Dr. A. K. Fouser was born in Stark Countyin 1854, and graduated from Akron High School in 1873. He then began reading medicine with Drs. Chase and Underwood, and graduated from Medical College of Ohio at Cincinnati in March, 1876, since which time he has practiced in Akron.

Dr. James P. Boyd was born in England in 1850, but came to this country while quite young. Received his education at Jamestown, N. Y., and Ann Arbor, Mich., and, in 1872, began reading medicine with Dr. Haseltine, of Grand Rapids, Mich. In 1875, he graduated from Long Island College Hospital. and in the following year located in Akron. where he now remains.

Dr. F. C. Reed was born in Ashtabula County in 1852, and was educated at the Grand River Institute in his native town—; Austinburg. In 1872, he began reading medicine with his brother, Dr. A. B. Reed. of Cleveland, and graduated from Charity Hospital Medical College in 1876, since which time he has followed his profession in the Sixth Ward of Akron.

Dr. C. C. Davison was born in Northampton Township in 1851, and was brought up on a farm. In 1872, he began reading medicine with Dr. E. W. Howard, and graduated from Columbus Medical College in 1877. After practicing several months at Botzum Station, in this county, he came to Sixth Ward, Akron. where he is now practicing.

Dr. A. C. Belden was born at Castile, N. Y.. in 1845. but at an early age removed with his parents to Bureau County, ILL, receiving his education at Dover Academy and at Poughkeepsie. N. Y. In 1863, he entered the army and served until the close of the war as private in Sixty-fourth Illinois Infantry. In 1870, he began the study of medicine with Dr. Thompson, of Princeton, ILL, and graduated from Bellevue Hospital Medical College in 1875. In the following year, he came to Akron, and. in July, 1877, began the practice of his profession, in which he has since continued.

Dr. W. K. Foltz was born in Mifflin County. Penn., in 1829, and until the age of eighteen remained at home, alternately working and attending school. He then taught school for several years, and, in 1850, began reading medicine with Dr. Stauber, of Wooster, Ohio.

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 319

In 1855, he began practice at La Fayette Center, Medina County, and the following year removed to Sharon Center, where he remained until 1867, in the meantime having attended lectures and graduated at the Eclectic College of Medicine, Cincinnati, in 1859. From 1867 to 1877, he was engaged in the drug business at Ashland, and since then has been practicing in Akron.

Dr. L. S. Sweitzer was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, and was educated at Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio. Began reading medicine with Dr. Buchman in 1872, and graduated from Cleveland Medical College in 1875, after which he served eighteen months in the Cleveland Hospital He then practiced some time in his native county, spent one year in New York City attending lectures, and, in the spring of 1879. located in Akron, where he is at the present time.

Dr. L. J. Proehl was born at Akron in 1850, but at the age of eight removed with his parents into Coventry Township. In 1873, he entered the National Normal School at Lebanon. Ohio, graduating in 1876. He then began the study of medicine with Dr. W. C. Jacobs, and graduated from Medical College of Ohio, at Cincinnati, in 1879, since which time he has practiced in Akron.

Dr. Eli Conn was born in Butler County, Penn., in 1839. In 1861, he entered the army, serving four years, after which he attended Baldwin University, graduating in 1868. Attended lectures at Cleveland Medical College in 1869 and 1871; practiced a short time, and, in 1872, was elected to the office of Prothonotary of his native county, serving four years. In the spring of 1876, he graduated from Charity Hospital Medical College; practiced in Butler County until I880, when he came to Akron.

Dr. T. K. Jacobs, Jr., was born in Lima in 1856, and, from 1873 to 1876, attended Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio. He then began reading medicine with his brother, Dr. W. C. Jacobs, graduated from Medical College of Ohio, at Cincinnati, in 1880, and same year began practice with his brother in Akron.

Dr. J. W. Lyon is a native of Copley, and was educated in the common schools of hisneighborhood. Began reading medicine in 1874 with Drs. Chase and Underwood, of Akron. Graduated from Columbus Medical College in 1877. Practiced several years at Clinton, after which he came to Akron and entered the dental profession.

In addition to the above we have the following-named physicians who have practiced in the county, but of whom, for various reasons, no definite notes could be procured.

Dr.. B. B. Brashear is a native of Fayette County, Penn., where he was born in 1822. During the late war he served as Surgeon of the Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and, in 1878, came to Akron.

Dr. D. A. Scott was born in Harrison County, Ohio, and, since 1848, has practiced medicine in Akron.

Dr. Frank A. Hanford, a native of Cuyahoga Falls, and graduate of Western Reserve College; read medicine with Dr. T. McEbright, and graduated at Charity Hospital Medical College in 1875. He then practiced in Sixth Ward a short time, but his health failing he went to California, where he soon afterward died of consumption.

Dr. John Wyltenbach practiced in Akron for some years previous to about 1876. He now lives in the South.

Dr. J. K. Holloway came to Akron from Pennsylvania somewhere about 1870, and practiced until the time of his death in 1874.

Dr. W. P. Morrison practiced in Akron a few years in the 70's, and then went to Canada, where he died.

Dr. A. F. Peck came to Akron in the early part of last decade; practiced a few years, and then went to Cleveland where he died in 1877.

Dr. O. D. Childs (Homoeopath), was born at Moretown, Vt., in 1840, and up to the age of twenty-one lived at home on a farm, receiving in the meantime a common and high school education. In 1863, he began reading homoeopathy at Oshkosh, Wis., and graduated from the Cleveland Homoeopathic College in 1867, since which he has practiced in Akron.

Dr. William Murdoch (Homoeopath), was born in Scotland in 1842, but at an early age came with his parents to this country and became a resident of Trumbull County, Ohio. His preliminary education was obtained at the

320 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

Orvill Normal School, and at Eastman Business College. In 1869, he began the study of homoeopathic medicine, and graduated from the Cleveland Homoeopathic Hospital College in 1873, since which he has followed his profession; two years at Garrettsville and the balance of the time in Akron.

Dr. J. W. Rockwell (Homoeopath), was born at Hudson in 1840, and attended the Akron schools. In 1873, he began the study of medicine with Dr. Childs, graduated from Chicago Hahnemann College in 1877, and since then has practiced in Akron.

Dr. DeWitt G. Wilcox (Homoeopath), was born in Akron in 1858, and graduated from the Akron High School in 1876, after which he attended Buchtel College for a few years. He then began the study of medicine with Dr. Murdoch; graduated from Cleveland Homoeopathic College in 1880, and since then has practiced in Akron.

Dr. T. R. Grow (Homoeopath), practiced in the Sixth Ward of Akron for several years, going thence to Vermont in 1880.

Dr. Whitmore (Homoeopath). read medicine with Dr. Grow, and is now practicing in Sixth Ward, Akron.

Dr. C. W. Rice, the first physician who was ever permanently located in Cuyahoga Falls, was born in Middlefield, Otsego Co., N. Y., in 1803; studied medicine with Dr. Spafford, of Cooperstown, N. Y., and graduated from Fairfield College, at Cazenovia, in the same State in 1829. After practicing one year with his preceptor, he came to Cuyahoga Falls in 1830, and there followed his profession until his death, which occurred in 1861. He was a man of very decided character, positive in his likes and dislikes, bitter in his denunciations of homoeopathy, and outspoken in his opposition to Freemasonry; but withal was a skillful surgeon as well as a benevolent and highly respected citizen.

Dr. John Davis came to Cuyahoga Falls in 1840. He was well educated in medicine, acquired a good practice and was highly spoken of by the profession as well as by the people generally. He removed to Michigan about 1853.

Dr. P. G. Summers, of what is known as the Thomsonian School of Medicine, practiced in

Cuyahoga Falls a number of years, during which time he attained a good reputation as a physician and was held in high esteem by the people. He served one term in the State Legislature, and held the office of Postmaster under Lincoln and Johnson.

Dr. Foote, an adherent of the botanical system of medicine, practiced in Cuyahoga Falls a number of years. Among those who practiced in this village at some time or other in the past, but of whom nothing definite could be learned, we find the names of Dr. Corry, Dr. S. Perham, Dr. J. S. Newbury. Dr. Hubbard, Dr. Shoemaker and Dr. Henshaw. the last being of the homoeopathic school.

Dr. Mary Watson lived in Cuyahoga Falls some twenty years, leaving there in 1870 She claimed to be an Eclectic, and is reported to have had some practice. especially among her own sex. but is probably best remembered on account of her rather eccentric character.

Dr. G. C. Upson, our oldest living practitioner of medicine, was born in Tallmadge Township. Summit County, Ohio. in 1821. He read medicine with Dr. Rice, of Cuyahoga Falls, and attended lectures at the medical department of Western Reserve College, graduating from that institution in 1847. After practicing three years with Dr. Taylor, of Twinsburg, in this county, he located at Cuyahoga Falls, where he has since practiced.

Dr. T. F. Heath was born in Connecticut but spent most of his early life in Western New York. Attended a course of lectures at the medical college in Pittsfield. Mass., and afterward two courses at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, graduating from the latter in March, 1851. In July of the same year, he came to Cuyahoga Falls where he has since practiced his profession, besides being of late years connected with the drug business.

Dr. J. M. Crafts was born in 1840, and is the son of Dr. Ambrose S. Crafts, who came to Ravenna in 1860. He graduated from Charity Hospital Medical College, Cleveland, in 1864, and then entered the army as Assistant Surgeon, serving as such for nearly three years. In 1873, he came to Cuyahoga Falls, and is practicing there at the present time.

Dr. W. S. Hough was born in Portage

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 320a

County, Ohio, in 1844, and served during the late war as a private. At the close of his army life he studied medicine, and graduated from Charity Hosptial Medical College in 1866. Practiced ten years with Dr. J. C. Ferguson at Mogadore, and then came to Cuyahoga Falls, where he is now practicing in partnership with Dr. J. M. Crafts.

Dr. A. H. Bill was born in Cuyahoga Falls in 1851. Studied medicine with Dr. C. M. Fitch, of Chicago, and graduated from Rush Medical College in 1875. Practiced in the office of his preceptor until November, 1875, when he returned to his old home, where he is now practicing.

Dr. H W. Carter (Homoeopath), was born in Twinsburg. Summit Co., Ohio. in 1841. Graduated from the Cleveland Homceopathic Medical College in 1869, and after one year of professional experience at Knoxville, Tenn., he located in Cuyahoga Falls, his present place of business.

Dr. Moses Thompson was in all probability the first physician who was ever permanently located in that section of the country now known as Summit County, and to Hudson belongs the credit of furnishing this historical character. He studied medicine in Litchfield County. Conn., with Dr. Everest and Dr. North, and with such training as he got from his worthy preceptors, he went to what is now known as Kinderhook. N. Y., to practice his profession. While here the Connecticut Company's great land purchase and the consequent Western fever attracted him, and being authorized by his father and brother to go and "spy out the land" for them, he came to Hudson with the colony under the guidance of Daniel Hudson. Having selected land for his father and brothers. he went East on foot and brought back his own family and those of his father and two brothers. This was in the year 1800, when he began the practice of his profession in the wilderness, and. for some years there was no other physician nearer than Warren, and his ride extended from Cleveland to fifty miles south of Hudson. In 1815, he retired from practice and went into general business, which he followed until his death, which occurred in 1858.

Dr. Jonathan Metcalf, the second physicianto settle in Hudson, was a native of Connecticut, and received his early education at the academies of Franklin and Colchester, and the public schools of the period. In 1807, he went to Middlebury, Vt., and commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Barr, and during his three years stay here he attended two courses of medical lectures at Dartmouth College. After completing his medical education in the spring of 1812, he started on horseback to look up some good field for practice in the West; In this way he came to Aurora, then a settlement of a few years' growth, but not being very favorably impressed with the outlook, be was on the point of returning to Pittsburgh, when he met Mr. Hudson, of the Hudson colony, who persuaded him to visit the latter place, which he did on the 6th of June, and being highly pleased with the prospect he decided to remain, and at once began the practice of his profession. At that time Twinsburg and Streetsboro were not yet settled, but subsequently his practice extended into those places as well as to Aurora, Mantua, Auburn, Troy, Hiram, Brecksville and Bath. He retired from active practice in 1850, and died in L869.

Dr. Israel Town came from Connecticut to Hudson during the first half of the second decade of present century. Of his early life nothing definite can be obtained, but he is credited with being a well-read and careful practitioner, his counsel in critical cases being especially in demand. He continued in the practice of his profession until within a few years of his death.

Dr. William Everett was a native of Vermont, and came to Hudson some time between 1825 and 1830. He continued in practice until his death, which occurred in 1833. On the occasion of his death, the Congregational Church, of which he was a member, made the following record: "Dr. Everett was chosen to the office of Deacon in November, 1831, which office he well discharged while living. He adorned his profession as a Christian, and died universally lamented."

Dr. L. D. Osborne, after receiving an academic education, entered the Lake Erie Medical College, since merged into the Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio; study-

320b - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

ing in the meanwhile as a private student under Dr. Delemater, a professor in the institution. He graduated in 1845, and, after practicing in various parts of the State, came to Hudson in 1854, where he has since followed his profession up to the present time.

Dr. F. Hodge began his collegiate course in Western Reserve College, subsequently graduating at Yale College. He studied medicine with Dr. Frank Hamilton, now of New York City, and attended lectures at the Buffalo Medical College. In 1864 he settled in Hudson, where he is now practicing.

Dr. A. E. Berbower began the study of medicine with Dr. Baker, of Wooster, Ohio, and subsequently became the private pupil of Prof. Weber, of Cleveland. Graduated from Medical Department of the Wooster University in 1865, after which he practiced his profession until 1880, when he died of consumption.

Dr. G. L. Starr is a native of Hudson, and an alumnus of Western Reserve College. Class of '56. He studied medicine with Dr. Maynard, attended lectures at the Cleveland Medical College, and subsequently graduated from the Bellevue Hospital Medical College in New York City. Located in Hudson in 1878, and continues in his profession to this time.

Dr. J. P. Sobey graduated from the Cleveland High School in 1871, and from the Cleve-land Homoeopathic Medical College in 1877. Came to Hudson in the following year, and has since followed his profession in that place.

Dr. Harrison Danforth, a native of New Hampshire, came to Hudson about the year 1840 and read medicine with Dr. Town. After several years of study, he adopted the so-called Eclectic system of medicine which he has since continued to practice. In the early years of his practice, he devoted some of his time to farming, but for the past twenty years he has given his entire attention to the practice of his profession in the vicinity of Hudson. Tallmadge Township, though it claims but a small share in the medical history of the county, yet furnishes one of the most valuable contributions in our whole collection, its special interest being due to the fact that three generations of the same name and family have been regular practitioners of medicine in ;the township; the first of whom was one of the earliest settlers, as well as the second physician in the county; the second being now one of the oldest physicians in this section of the country, while the third has but recently entered the profession.

Dr. Amos C. Wright was born in Winsted, Litchfield County, Conn., September 5, 1782. His father, Captain John Wright, was an officer in the Revolutionary war, and a pioneer in the settlement of the northern part of Connecticut. At the age of sixteen, the subject of our sketch began the study of medicine with Dr. Minor, remaining with him about five years, and being in the meantime licensed to practice by the Litchfield County Medical Society. in 1801, he came to Ohio and settled in Vernon. Trumbull County, where he remained about a year and a half practicing and teaching school, after which he went back to Connecticut and was married to Miss Lydia Kinne. Accompanied by his wife and his father's family, he returned to Ohio in 1803, and practiced in Vernon. Trumbull County, until 1808, when, at the solicitation of Rev. David Bacon, he came to Tallmadge. At that time there were only three or four families in the town-ship. and

Dr. Thompson. of Hudson, was the only physician in Summit County. In 1812, he was appointed Surgeon to a company of militia which was stationed at Old Portage, by order of Gen. Harrison, until after Perry's victory on Lake Erie. Dr. Wright continued in the practice of his profession until near the close of his life; was successful, had a wide-spread reputation and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. He died in 1845.

Dr. Amos Wright, the son and successor of Dr. Amos C. Wright, was born in 1808, and was the first white male child born in Tallmadge Township. When nine years of age, he was sent to the academy to study the classics as preparatory to a professional education, and, at the age of nineteen, began the study of medicine under his father. In 1830, he attended his first course of lectures at the Medical College of Ohio, in Cincinnati, and the next year attended the Medical Department of Yale College, receiving his diploma from the last-named institution in the spring of L832.

He first began practicing medicine in Mid-

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 320c

dlebury, now the Sixth Ward of Akron, and while there kept the first exclusive drug store in the county. Six months later he went to Vernon, Trumbull County, where he remained three years, gaining quite an extensive practice. but, in 1835, at the earnest solicitation of his father he returned to his native town, where he has been in practice continuously up to the present time.

Dr. Samuel St. John Wright, son of Dr. Amos Wright, was born in Tallmadge and received his education at the common schools and at Western Reserve College. At the age of eighteen he began reading medicine with his father. and a few years later graduated from Cleveland Medical College. He practiced one year in Tallmadge. then removed to Nebraska, where he remained four years, and since that time has practiced with his father in Tallmadge.

Dr. Sperry has for many years been a resident of Tallmadge, but during a considerable portion of the time has been engaged in the manufacturing business. His early history and place of birth were not ascertained. Several more physicians have at various times been located in Tallmadge, but none except those named above have ever remained for any great length of time.

Concerning the early history of medical practice in Norton Township, very little can now be ascertained, but from careful research we find that since 1840 no less than fifteen physicians have at various times been located within its limits for the practice of their profession.

Dr. Alexander Fisher was born in Massachusetts. read medicine with a Dr. Richards in, or near. Skaneateles, N. Y., and came to Western Star sometime between 1840 and 1845, where he remained until about 1852: then practiced in Akron until near the time of the breaking-out of the rebellion, when he went West and is now practicing in Chicago. During his stay in Norton he enjoyed the reputation of being a splendid physician for his time, and had probably more students than any one doctor ever in the township. Among the latter were Drs. Amos Warner. Harry Spellman, A. H. Agard. E. G. Hard. now of Medina, and John Hill, now a member of the Ohio State Legislature.

Dr. M. M Dickson came to Norton Township in 1852, and began the study of medicine, soon afterward taking his degree from Cleveland Medical College in 1855. The next year he located at Johnson's Corners, where he practiced until 1862, when he entered the service of his country as Assistant Surgeon. Was attached to the Western army under Gen. Rosecrans in the campaign of Stone River and Chattanooga, and thence with "Sherman to the sea." After a service of two years and eight months he returned to Johnson's Corners, where he has continued in the practice of his profession until the present time.

Dr. A. H. Agard succeeded his preceptor, Dr. Fisher. in the practice of medicine at Western Star, but after a stay of only a few years he went West and is now at Sandusky, Ohio.

Dr. Dreher began practicing at Western Star some time near the beginning of the late war, but after a few years removed to Loyal Oak where he remained two years, going next to Smithville where he now resides.

Dr. John Hill was born in Sussex, England, in 1823. His father, Mr. John Hill, came to this country in 1828, and settled near Utica. N. Y.. where he was engaged in farming until 183 7 , when he came to Cuyahoga County, in this State. The subject of this sketch left home at the age of fifteen, and by means of hard work and teaching school, succeeded in acquiring a limited education. In 184'7, he began the study of medicine with Dr. Alexander Fisher. of Western Star. and in the two following winters attended lectures in the Cleveland Medical College. In 1850, he went to California where he remained about three years, going from there to Australia. then to London and finally back home again in 1854. During the winter of 1854-55. he attended lectures at Cleveland Medical College. and the following winter went to Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. graduating in the spring of 1856. After practicing in Sharon, Medina County. for nearly a year. he settled on a farm near Western Star, where he now resides. For a few years he devoted part of his time to practice. but soon dropped medicine entirely and paid his entire attention to farming. In 1870, he was elected to the office of County Commis-

320d - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

sioner, which office he held by virtue of re-elections until 1879, when he resigned by reason of his election to a seat in the State Legislature.

Dr. F. F. Falk served during the late war as Hospital Steward of the Sixteenth Ohio Volunteers, and while acting in that capacity read medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. B. S. Chase. After being mustered out of service he attended lectures at Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, receiving his degree in the spring of 1865. He then went to Nashville, Tenn., where for the next six months he. did efficient hospital duty under an appointment of Assistant Surgeon United States Army. Upon his return to Ohio, he located at Western Star; but after a few years practice he fell a victim to consumption and died.

Dr. Charles F. H. Willgohs, a native of Germany, settled at Dennison, in Norton Township, about the year 1870, and continued practicing there until about 1878, when he removed to Doylestown, Wayne County, his present home.

Dr. F. W. Swan, a native of Pennsylvania, succeeded Dr. Dreher, as the next physician, at Loyal Oak. He remained but two years.

Dr. William T. Parmele, a native of New York State, came to Loyal Oak in 1873. After practicing in that place about three years, he went to Greensburg, but two years later, in 1880, returned to Norton Township, locating this time in New Portage, where he is now practicing.

Dr. Austin T. Woods read medicine with Dr. J. A. Knowlton and Dr. H. M. Fisher, of Akron, graduated from Cleveland Medical College in 1879, and soon afterward began practicing at Loyal Oak, where he is at the present time.

Dr. A. B. Campbell, Dr. Griesmer, Dr. Zwisler and Dr. Mikesell, each practiced in the township a short time.

Dr. Alpheus Babcock was one of the earliest settlers of Coventry Township, and practiced there for a number of years.

Dr. Elijah Canfield, another of the early settlers, practiced medicine in the township for over thirty years.

Dr. Samuel Austin practiced in the township a few years.

Dr. Jackson Chapman began practicing in Copley about the year 1835, and continued twelve or fifteen years.

Dr. Byron Chapman began the practice of his profession in Copley about 1845, and has continued up to the present time.

The history of Green Township furnishes us with an addition of about fifteen to our already long list of Summit County doctors, but, unfortunately for the reader as well as for future historians, little if anything more than a mere mention of their names can be said of a majority of them at this time.

Dr. Smith, first name not known, was the first man who practiced medicine in this township, and all that can be learned concerning him is that he was an old man in 1S30.

Dr. John Thomas was the first physician in the village of Greensburg. He came there about i8 , and remained two years, removing thence to Wood County.

Drs. A. H. Mann. H. Peters. Jacob Musser, Wesley Boden, David Joseph, Benjamin F. Sampsell and Garber followed in close succession, each remaining a year or two. Then came Dr. C. A. Perdue, who practiced in the village about six years, though not continuously. Next came Dr. Markam, who remained one year; then Dr. O. E. Brownell, who remained ten years, and is mentioned among the Akron sketches. Following him came Dr. Howland who remained two years, Dr. Parmele, one year, and Dr. Reynolds. who was there at the same time and also remained one year.

East Liberty has had two doctors, L. S. Witwer and Jonathan Buchtel, each of whom remained about six years. The township is without a physician at present.

Richfield Township has for the last fifty years or more been well supplied with medical men, so far at least as numbers are concerned; and from the date of the earliest settlements in the county up to 1840, the surrounding towns to a distance of about eight or ten miles depended upon Richfield doctors.

Dr. Secretary Rawson, the first physician in the township, was born in the town of Warwick, now Franklin Co.. Mass., in the year 1796, and received his early education in the common schools of that State. At the age of ten he

HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY - 32Oe

received from an uncle a share in a circulating library, which for the next six years occupied his leisure hours; reading mostly at night and by the light of a pitchpine knot stuck in the chimney corner. which. "as he says," not only gave light and intelligence to the recipient, but to the whole household. When seventeen years old he began a regular course of study at New Salem Academy, where he continued through the summer months of the next four years, his winters in the meanwhile being spent in teaching school He then entered the office of Dr. Secretary Rawson, of Waterbury, Vt., where he remained two years, going thence to Royalston. Mass., where he spent three years in the office of Dr. Batchellor. During the last two years of his medical course of study he practiced enough to pay his own expenses. and at its close received a diploma from a medical society at Montpelier, Vt. In 1823, he came to Ohio, and after practicing one year in Madison. Geauga County, came to Richfield, where he continued in active practice for the next forty-two years. In 1866. he removed to Des Moines. Iowa. where he still resides. He was always an energetic and well-informed physician, and had the will and ability to defend his opinions with tongue or pen, being then, as he is now, a frequent contributor to the newspapers.

Dr. Bela B. Clark practiced in Richfield from 1830 to 1836. going then to Brunswick, Medina County. Next came Dr. Hiram Wheeler and Dr. William Munson. both of whom did a large business for a number of years. The former died several years ago, and the latter is now living in Independence, Cuyahoga County. Following these came a Dr. Everett. who practiced in the township a few years only.

Dr. Nathan Stevenson read medicine in Richfield with Dr. Munson. and after graduating from a college in New York City. practiced some years with his preceptor. He then removed to Illinois; served as Surgeon during the rebellion, and died some years ago.

Dr. A. E. Ewing came to Richfield in 1850, and has ever since resided there except when his roaming propensity has carried him off to some other field for a short time. . He graduated from an old medical college in New England. but, as he says, "is not considered quite orthodox in medicine or anything else." Dr. H. B. Johnson, now of Beloit, Wis., practiced in the township some years, and served as Surgeon of an Ohio regiment during the rebellion. Dr. I. B. Beach also practiced here a few years in company with his son-in-law, Dr. Johnson. Dr. William Jones studied medicine with Dr. Johnson. and like his preceptor served as Surgeon in the late war. Dr. Craven practiced here about three years in the first half of the present decade. Besides the above a Dr. Jewett was here a short time previous to 1840, and a Dr. Dickerson from about 1860 to 18'70. Three or four homoeopaths have at different times tried to gain a patronage in the township, but their success has never warranted more than a short residence in the place.

At the present time the health of the township is looked after by Dr. Ewing, Dr. Wesley Pope and Dr. Chamberlin.

In Bath Township there are several doctors practicing at present Dr. E. K. Nash, at Montrose, and Dr. R. Randall, at Hammond's Corners.

In Franklin Township Dr. Adam Sisler, a native of Pennsylvania. has practiced in Manchester since about 1850. Dr. D. Rowe has practiced in the same place since about 1873 or 1875.

Twinsburg Township has found need for physicians like all the world beside, but very few have ever found it a profitable field for practice.

Dr. Otis Bois. from Blanford. Mass., came to the township about 1834. and practiced medicine about two years in connection with carrying on a general merchandise store. The next was Dr. Taylor. from Aurora. Portage County, who came to Northfield about L840, and practiced successfully about three or four years. Following Dr. Taylor came Dr. John E. Stevens. who remained a few years and then went to Youngstown. Ohio. About the' same time or perhaps a little later, Dr. Selby moved into the township from Colimer, and remained a few years. In 1863. Dr. Collins, of Bedford, came into the township where he practiced for the next three or four years. About the same time Dr. Seth Freeman, who

320f - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

had privately read homoeopathy, began the practice of his profession, and has advanced to a fair business. Not far from the same time Dr. Proctor Clark, after attending lectures in Cleveland began the practice of homoeopathy.

Suman Griste, a brother-in-law of Dr. Freeman, studied homoeopathy with the latter, and is today practicing his profession.

The first physician of whom we have any record as having practiced in Northfield Township was Dr. Hosea Bliss. He graduated from Burlington (Vermont) College, in 1825, and. fn 1834, came to Northfield where he continued in practice until the time of his death. in 1874.

Dr. Perkins Wallace came to Brandywine, in this township. some time about 1836, and remained one year. After this we find the names of Dr. Caruther, Dr. Jones, Dr. Benjamin, Dr. Haseltine.

Dr. Carley, homoeopath, and Dr. Cranmer. homoeopath, each of whom remained about one year.

Next came Dr. H. B. Hart, who remained two years.

Dr. R. S. Hubbard came to the place in 1877, and continues in practice at the present date. He was educated at Baldwin University, and is a graduate of Charity Hospital Medical College.

The only physician who was ever located in Stow Township was Dr. Luther Spaulding. He came from Connecticut and located at what is known as Stow Corners in the spring of 1825, practicing there until August of the same year, when he died.

From Boston Township we get the following brief history: Dr. S. Pixley was born in Franklin County, Mass., in 1816, but came to this county before he was a year old. Having received his preliminary education at the common schools and Wadsworth Academy, he began the study of medicine with Drs. Trask and Leona' of Stringsville, about the year 1841. He afterward read one year with Dr. Munson, of Richfield. Graduated from Cleve-land Medical College in 1847, and since thenhas practiced most of the time in Peninsula.

Dr. Humphrey read medicine with Dr. Pixley, and has practiced in Peninsula for four-teen years.

Dr. A. M. Cole also read medicine with Dr. Pixley, and has been in Peninsula for the last six years or more, though engaged in other business than the practice of his profession during most of the time.

Coventry Township has for the most part depended upon Akron and Manchester for its doctors. Dr. William Reed practiced for a number of years in Thomastown, and, about 1876, removed to Mogadore. Dr. J. W. Sorrick was born at Manchester, this county. in 1848, and received his education in the common schools of that place, and the Normal School at Lebanon, Ohio. About 1871, he began reading medicine with Dr. W. C. Jacobs. of Akron, and, in 1875, graduated at medical college of Ohio at Cincinnati. Practiced in Akron until 1878, since which time he has been practicing at Thomastown. Dr. John B. Thomas was reared in the vicinity of Thomas-town, read medicine with Drs. Bowen and Foltz; graduated at Charity Hosiptal Medical College, Cleveland. in 1880. and has since then been practicing at his old home.

It is but appropriate that some notice of the medical societies of Summit County should be made in this sketch of the profession. Our limited space. however, will admit of the very briefest mention. As early as 1842, the members of the medical profession met together and organized a society by adopting a "preamble and constitution," and formally constituting themselves into a regular society. This society continued in existence a number of years, and finally became extinct. Again, in February, 1866, a meeting was held in the office of Dr. J. J. Smith, its object being the reorganization of a medical society, and as a final result the "Summit County Medical Society" was organized. This society is still in existence, and is an institution of considerable interest to the profession of the county.