YORK TOWNSHIP - 535 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. P. C. ADAMS, farmer, P. O. Broadway, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, September 17, 1824, and is a son of Charles and Mary (Cline) Adams, the former a native of Delaware, of English descent, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch descent. The father was a farmer and stock dealer, and for fourteen years made a business of driving cattle from Fayette County to the markets at Cincinnati. Our subject was reared on a farm and received such advantages of education as were at hand for farm boys at an early day. He has been a life-long farmer and has met with success in all of his farm operations. He has resided in York Township since 1862, at which time he came, with his family, as a paroled prisoner. He enlisted in the Ninetieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was taken prisoner and paroled in Kentucky in 1862. He afterward enlisted in the Eighth Indiana Volunteers, and was detailed Commissary Sergeant and wounded in 1864 while guarding a railroad train. He is a stanch Republican in politics, but, being a quiet, unobtrusive man, has never aspired to official position and has had no such honors bestowed on him by his party. He is a representative man of his township, the owner of 168 acres of well-cultivated land and has made his possessions by his own personal efforts. He was married, in 1853, to Lenora Green, a native of Logan County, Ohio, and a daughter of Rev. Thomas Green. By this union eight children were born, six surviving, viz.: Indiana, wife of Washington Patree; Nancy, wife of William Johnson; Lydia A., wife of Richard Harris; Maria Ellen, wife of ff. Henson; Armetha M., wife of C. Bennett; and Charles W. JOSEPH T. ATHA, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. Thomas Atha, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Maryland, in 1786, and with his parents, removed to Loudoun County, Virginia, where he married, probably in the year 1804, Miss Abigail Miller, by whom he had fourteen children, eight of whom are now living, viz.: John, William, Sarah, Elizabeth, Joseph T., Nancy A., Simeon L. and Thomas. In 1810, he emigrated to Champaign County, Ohio, where he remained but a few months. In the spring of 1811, he moved to Logan County and settled in the woods in Monroe Township. During the war of 1812, he enlisted in the service as Drum-Major, for three months, and for his services, from the Government, received a grant of land in Illinois. A short time after he had settled in Logan County, Mrs. Atha, who still resides there, one day had occasion to gather some ginseng, the root of which was then in demand for medicinal purposes; she was accompanied by two faithful ours, who on their way encountered a wolf, and after a long struggle, with her assistance, they succeeded in destroying the beast. The Government, at that time, paid a reward of $10 for every wolf scalp that was brought to Urbana, where she forthwith took the scalp and received her reward. With the many privations of life which they encountered, by faithful adherence to business and to habits of industry, they succeeded in making for themselves and family a comfortable home. Mr. Atha died in October, 1870; his widow still survives him, now in her ninety-sixth year, and though old, she has retained her reason and memory uncommonly well for one of her age. Our subject was born in Logan County, Ohio, January 23, 1827, and received a good common school education. When twenty years of age, he came to Union County and began school teaching, in which he continued, alternately, for perhaps thirteen years. For his first teaching he received $10 per month, which was considered very good wages, but during the latter part of his teaching he received as high as $25 per mouth; and at these prices made and saved enough money to make the first payment on his land." On May 8, 1850, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy A. Skidmore, who was born February 8, 1832, in Logan County. She was a daughter of Joshua and Hope Skidmore, who were early settlers in Logan County. To them have been born eight children-Sarah E., David P., Henry C., Mary F., Hope A., Charity D., Orinda J. and Rachel, the latter two of whom are deceased; he is also rearing as his own his grandchild, Ida M. Wilgus, daughter of Lorenzo D. and Orinda J. Wilgus, the latter being the 536 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. eldest daughter of our subject, and having been wedded to her husband but eleven months, died. In 1856, Mr. Atha settled in the southwestern portion of York Township, Union County, where he now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Atha, with their four oldest children, are members of the M. E. Church. He has served as School Director many years, and is the owner of eighty-two acres of land. AMOS W. BALLINGER, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. Thomas Ballenger, deceased, father of our subject, was born February 18, 1826, in Logan County, Ohio, he was a son of Caleb Ballinger, deceased, and Rebecca Ballinger, his mother at present residing with Mr.. Isaac Dalley, of this township. For his first wife, in Logan County, he married Mary A. Harvey; nine of their children are now living-Alonzo H., Eliza J., Caleb E., Rebecca E., Hannah W., William B., Alice L., Amos W. and George M. After her decease in December 1862, he married Christena. Bechtel, who was born January 16, 1843, in Fairfield County, Ohio; her parents were Andrew and Magdalena Bechtel. By her he had four children, two of whom are still living-Andrew S. and John E. He was a member of the M. E. Church, and died March 25, 1878. He left 111 acres of land to his widow who survives him and resides in the western portion of York Township. Our subject was born in Union County, Ohio, August 8, 1857. On September 16, 1876, he was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor Winner who was born in February 1857; she was a daughter of John and Margaret Winner-both deceased-of Logan County.. To them has been born one child, viz.. Mary M., born May 7, 1878. Mr. Ballinger is a member of the M. E. Church, a Republican, and the owner of seventy acres of land. JONATHAN BEARD, farmer, P.O. York. Our subject was born in Delaware (now Morrow) County, Ohio, October 2, 1820; he is a son of Victor and Mary A. Beard, natives of New York State, who were married in Delaware County, Ohio, and were the parents of five children, two of whom are now living, viz.: Jonathan and Joseph. About the year 1854, they came to Union County, where they remained until their decease, the former in September 1855, and the latter in June 1876. Jonathan, on July 30, 1846, was married to Miss Polly Stevens, who was born June 28, 1830; she was a daughter of Elijah and Phoebe Stevens, of Knox County, Ohio. To them have been born eight children-Cordelia, Elizabeth A., Mary E., James J. N., Philander W., Clara B., Jonathan C. and one deceased. In 1848, he came to Leesburg Township, Union County, and after living in different portions of Union County, he finally, in the autumn of 1881, settled in York Township, where he now resides. Mr. Beard is a member of the M. E. Church, and the owner of over eighty acres of land. LEVI H. BECHTEL, farmer, P. O. Richwood. The subject of this sketch was born December 23, 1842, in Fairfield County, Ohio; his parents are David Bechtel (deceased) and Matilda Bechtel. When five years of age his father died, and a short time after, with his mother, he moved to Delaware County, where he remained until the spring of 1875, when he came to Union County. On October 8, 1865, he married Miss Nancy J. Mills, who was born October 1842, and was daughter of the late Rev. Pierson Mills of Delaware County. By this union there has been an issue of three children-Charles W., born March 2, 1876; Ross B., born August 2, 1877, and Frank C., born July 13, 1878. Mr. Bechtel was one of the incorporators of the Union County Farmers' Insurance Company, and at present is one of the Directors He is also serving as trustee of York Township, find is connected with the Richwood Importing Company. He is a Democrat, the owner of ninety-seven acres of land and resides in the northern portion of York Township. L. W. BOLENBAUGH, farmer, P. O. York. The subject of this sketch was born in Union County, Ohio, December 18, 1836; he is a son of Jacob Bolenbaugh (deceased) and Sarah Bolenbaugh, natives of Pennsylvania, who with their parents come to Ohio when quite young. They were married in Fairfield County, Ohio, March 20,1830. In 1834, they came to Union County and settled in York Township, where our subject now resides. In August 1878, Jacob departed this life, respected by all who knew him; his widow survives him and resides at the home of our subject. They were the parents of three children-Lewis F., David D. and L. W. Our subject was reared on a farm and received but a limited education. On October 1, 1860, he was united in marriage to Miss Alvira, Harris, who was born July 6, 1840, and was a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Harris. To them have been born five children-David C., Howard (deceased), Ida, Otis G. and Maud. In March 1865, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Ninety-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Find was employed principally in doing garrison duty. He received an honorable discharge in September 1865. Mr. Bolenbaugh is one of the incorporators of the Union County Farmers' Insurance Company, and is the owner of 118 acres of land in a high state of cultivation. URIAH CAHILL, former, P. O. York, was born in Claibourne Township, on the Cahill homestead, in this county, December 29, 1841. In 1839, his parents, John E. and Hannah Cahill, came to Union County, and settled near Fulton Creek in Claibourne Township. Uriah, in his youth devoted his time principally to farming, and obtaining a good English education. In September 1862, he enlisted in the Thirty first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Third Division, Fourteenth Corps, Army of the Cumberland, and participated in nearly all the battles in which Gen. Thomas' command was engaged; also the Atlanta campaign, and in Sherman's grand march to the sea. He remained with Sherman's army until the close of the war, and was honorably YORK TOWNSHIP. - 537 discharged in July 1865, at Camp Chase, Ohio. On March 3, 1864, while home on veteran furlough, he married Isabel Worbs, a daughter of Laban H. and Martha J. Worbs, of Union County, and a sister of Mrs. Lemuel Cahill. To them have been born two children-James C. and Isaac J. In August, 1868, he settled in the southern portion of York Township, of which he has served as Trustee several years. In the fall of 1881, he was elected for three years a County Commissioner, the duties of which office he is performing with credit to himself and the county. In June, 1881, he was elected the first President of the Union County Farmers' Insurance Company, and in June 1882, was re-elected to the same office. He is a member of the F. & A. M. society, and of the Presbyterian Church at York Center, and the owner of a fine farm of 220 acres. LEMUEL CAHILL, farmer, P. O. York, was born in Claibourne Township, on the Cahill homestead, about four miles west of Richwood, January 12, 1847. His parents were John E. and Hannah Cahill, of whom we have made mention in another portion of this work. After receiving a rudimentary education, he attended, for nine months, a high school at Marysville, and during the latter portion of 1867, and beginning of 1868, he attended, for six months, the Ohio Business College at Delaware, from which institution he received a diploma.. On May 23, 1870, he married Miss Mary F. Worbs, daughter of Laban H. and Martha J. Worbs. They had two children - Cora B., born November 25, 1871, died July 8, 1872, and John H., born March 26,1873. In 1871, Mr. Cahill settled in the southern portion of York Township, near where he now resides. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, and the owner of 241 acres of tillable land. GEORGE W. COONS, farmer, P.O. Byhalia. The subject of this sketch was born in Union County, Ohio, July 29, 1840. His parents were Thomas S. Coons and Rebecca Coons, the latter now deceased. In December 1861, he enlisted in the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was attached to the Army of West Virginia. He participated in the battles of Cedar Mountain, Cross Keys, Sulphur Springs, and the second battle of Bull Run, where he received a wound in the left leg, which terminated in a thigh amputation. On the battle-field he was taken prisoner by the confederates, and left eight days without food. He, however, finally was properly exchanged, and was honorably discharged from the service on November 25, 1862. On January 25, 1872, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Elliott, who was born January 26, 1849, in Portage County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Wilkinson and Sarah Elliott. To them have been born four children, three of whom are now living-Orville F., Orland T., an infant and one deceased. Mr. Coons has served as Assessor of York Township; has been successful in business, and is the owner of a fine farm of 158 acres of land. He resides in the northern portion of York Township. STERLING F. COONS, farmer, P. O. Byhalia. The subject of this sketch was born in Union County, Ohio, September 6, 1847; is a son of Thomas S. and Rebecca (deceased) Coons. From his youth, he has devoted his attention principally to agricultural pursuits. On July 25, 1870, he married Miss Hope Haines who was horn June 9, 1852, in Union County, Ohio. She is a daughter of Jonathan and Mary (deceased) Haines. For ten years subsequent to his marriage, he resided near Rush Creek, in Washington Township, but in the spring of 1880 he located on the homestead farm in the northern portion of York Township. Politically, he is a Republican, and he is the owner of 150 acres of land in a good state of cultivation. N. H. COONS, farmer, P. O. York, was born in Licking County, Ohio, April 18, 1825, and is a son of George and Keziah Coons, who settled in York Township in 1880. His father filled several important offices in the township and died in 1856, respected by all who knew him. On May 15, 1852, he married Miss Fidelia Phelps, who was born in 1831 ; her father was a Baptist minister and a very active member of society. They have had eight children, of whom four are now living-Cynthia A., Jason, James and Mary I. Mr. Coons resides on his farm in the northern portion of York Township. JOHN M. CURL, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born November 18, 1828, in Logan County, Ohio. His parents were James R. Curl (deceased) and Louisa Curl, both natives of Virginia. He was reared to man's estate on a farm and received the rudiments of an English education in a district school. On March 13, 1856, he was united in marriage to Miss Caroline M. Munsell, who was born December 15, 1836, in Lorain County. Ohio; she was a daughter of Alvin and Mary Munsell. To them have been born eight children, viz.: Louisa, born April 26, 1857, ; James N., born November 30, 1858; Emily E., born June 2, 1861, died December 5, 1862; Clement L., born January 1, 1864; Robert P., horn August 8, 1866; Nellie C., born August 20, 1868; Huldah E., born September 15, 1871 ; and Charlie, born March 4, 1877. Mr. Curl resides in the western portion of York Township and is the owner of seventy-two acres of land. JEREMIAH M. DANFORTH, farmer, P. O. Raymond. The subject of this sketch was born June 18, 1825, in Licking County, Ohio; he is a son of David and Anne Danforth, who emigrated from Vermont to Licking County, Ohio, in 1817. They remained in Licking County until 1837, in which year they came to Union County. They were the parents of seven children three of whom are now living, viz. : Bliss, Julia, and Jeremiah M. Our subject has from his youth been engaged in the pursuits of agriculture, and he received but a rudimentary education. 538 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. On October 14, 1847, he was united in marriage with Miss Polly A. Smith, who was born March 24, 1823; she was a daughter of Charles and Sarah Smith, of whom we have made mention in this work. To them were born four children, viz. : Thomas C., born September 14, 1848; Eliza J., born May 22, 1851; Sarah A., born February 27, 1855; and David S., born January 24, 1861. Mr. Danforth for more than one-third of a century enjoyed with his faithful wife the pleasures of married life, when on December 26, 1881, death called her away; she left behind her a wealth of love and affection, and will not soon be forgotten by the loved ones who mourn their irretrievable loss. For several years Mr. Danforth served as Justice of the Peace in Taylor Township He is a member of F. & A. M. lodge and the owner of 72 1/2 acres of laud. He resides in the southern portion of York Township. He had two brothers, who participated in the war of the late rebellion; his father, David, was a soldier of the war of 1812, and his grandfather, Peter Danforth, was a valiant soldier of the Revolutionary war. JAMES M. DARLING, Notary Public and insurance agent, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born in Windsor County, Vt., April 25, 1817, and in September, 1836, with the Stoddard family, he left Vermont for Ohio. Their journey was long and tedious, traveling by stage, by the Erie Canal and by Lake Erie. After many disappointments and having endured many privations, they finally, over muddy roads and through inclement weather, by way of Columbus, arrived at Woodstock, Champaign, County, which was their destination. For perhaps ten years he resided in Woodstock, the first three years of which during the summer months he worked on a farm and in the winter taught school. For the following seven years he engaged in the boot and shoe making, having learned the trade with his father when a young man. In 1840, he married Jane Harvey, daughter of Erastus Harvey (a Baptist preacher), and Ann Harvey, both of whom are deceased. To them were born three children, viz. : Charles W., John R., and Elizabeth. Mrs. Darling died June 3, 1845, and in February 1849, he married Mary A. Shirk, by whom he had three children, viz.: David O., Alice M. and Joseph M. His second wife died April 23, 1865, and on November 12, 1865, he married for his third wife Amy Warford, widow of the late Joseph Warford. In 1846, he left Woodstock for Middletown, where he followed his trade for five years and from there he moved to a farm in Paint Township, Madison County, where he remained until he came to Union County. He first located in Liberty Township, but in October 1865, he came to Summersville, York Township, where he now resides, and is engaged in the boot and shoe business. In January 1869, he was appointed Postmaster, and is still serving as such; for many years he has been a Notary Public and Commissioner of Deeds. Mr. Darling takes considerable interest in literary matters, one of his productions being a brief but valuable history of York Township published in 1876. He is a member of the Christian Church. ELZA H. DAVIS (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born December 9, 1816, in Pennsylvania. His parents were David and Elizabeth Davis. When a young man, he came to Ohio, and in October 1846, in Marion County, he was joined in matrimony to Miss Mary E. Walker, who was born October 16, 1829. She was a daughter of James and Elizabeth Walker, natives of Delaware, who came to Pickaway and subsequently to Marion County at quite an early day. By this union there has been an issue of seven children, three of whom are now living, viz. : Elza C., James E. and George D. Shortly after the date of his marriage he came to Union County, and settled in the northeastern portion of York Township, where he remained until his decease. He was an affectionate husband and father, and esteemed by all who knew him. In his death Union County lost one of her most energetic and best citizens. He left to his widow, who still resides where he settled, 285 acres of land. DAVID B. DAVIS, farmer, P. O. York. George Davis, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Pennsylvania, August 23, 1816, and in 1821, with his parents, David and Keziah Davis, he came to Harrison County, Ohio, where they remained until 1833, in which year they came to Union County and settled in York Township. He married in Union County Miss Nancy Hyde, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Hyde (deceased). Two of their children are now living, viz.: David B. and Mary E. He is a member of the M. E. Church and the owner of 170 acres of land, and resides at York Center. Our subject was born in Union County, Ohio, September 24, 1834. On January 9, 1858, he was united in marriage to Miss Jane Miller, who was born in September 1837, in Union County. In the spring of 1867, he settled in the southern portion of York Township, where he now resides, and where he owns 150 acres of land. AMON DAVIS, farmer, P. O. York. The subject of this sketch was born in Washington County, Penn., July 23, 1819, and when two years of age, with his parents, David and Keziah Davis, he came to Harrison County, Ohio. In 1833, with them, he came to Union County, where they remained until their decease; the former in June 1878, and the latter in December of the same year. Of a family of ten children, eight are now living, viz. : George, Eliza, Amon, David, Washington, Susan, Finley D. and Thomas. On January 18, 1844, our subject was united in the bonds of matrimony with Miss Roxana Storms, daughter of Gregory and Melinda Storms. To them were born two children-Melinda and Oliver B. She died in October 1876, and he subsequently married Mrs. Roxana. Brooks, widow of the late James Brooks. Mr. Davis has served as Trustee of York Township and is a member of the United Brethren Church. He is the owner of 160 acres of land. Page 539 - Picture of W. M. Skidmore Page 540 - Blank YORK TOWNSHIP. - 541 OLIVER B. DAVIS, farmer, P. O. York, was born in Union County, Ohio, December 22, 1847. His parents are Amon and Roxana (deceased) Davis, whose biography appears in this work. In his youth he received but a rudimentary education. In December 1871, he married Miss Rebecca VanVorhiss, daughter of Peter and Matilda VanVorhiss, of Logan County, Ohio. This union has been blessed with two children, of whom one is now living, viz.: Oral F., born July 29, 1881. Mr. Davis, as an agriculturist, has been quite successful, having plenty of energy and industrious habits, traits which characterize the Davis family. He has a fine farm of 175 acres, on which he has built a commodious residence. GEORGE H. DILSAVER (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, April 20, 1812. His parents were George and Elizabeth Dilsaver, both natives of Virginia. When a boy, with his parents, he moved to Delaware County, where he married in October 1836, Miss Rachel Decker, who was born in March 1813; she was a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Decker, who were natives of Virginia. To them were born five children, three of whom are now living, viz.: George T., Joseph and Austin. After his marriage he settled in Delaware County, where he remained until his decease, October 7, 1844. His widow continued to reside in Delaware County until November 1874, when she, with her son Joseph, came to Union County and settled in the northern part of York Township, where they now reside and where they have a farm of 145 acres. FRANCIS M. DRAKE (deceased). Chordy Drake, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in North Carolina, and came to Warren County, Ohio, at an early day. In Logan County he married Miss Sarah James, by whom he had eight children, of whom four are yet living. About the year 1834, he settled in York Township, Union County, near the boundary line of Logan County, where he remained until a short time prior to his decease. After spending a life of usefulness, respected by all who knew him, he quietly passed away in June, 1878, at the home Thomas Skidmore, in York Township. His faithful consort survived him but a short time, she having departed this life in July 1880. The subject of this sketch was born August 14, 1828, in Warren County, Ohio, and when four years of age, with his parents, came to Logan County and located near East Liberty, where they, however, remained but a short time, when they settled in Union County, as aforementioned. On February 28, 1850, he married Miss Mary Harriman, who was born July 20,1831, in Logan County, Ohio; she was a daughter of Simpkin and Sarah Harriman, her father a native of Virginia, and her mother a native of Pennsylvania; they come to Logan County, Ohio, in quite an early (lay. This union has been blessed with three children, of whom two are now living-Chordy L. and John T. Shortly after their marriage, they settled in the western portion of York Township, on the farm where the widow still resides. He had served as Trustee of York Township, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. On May 16, 1880, he departed this life, respected b y all who knew him. John T. Drake, one of the sons of our subject, was born October 1, 1853, in Union County, Ohio, and is at present residing on the homestead farm. On December 25, 1875, he married Miss Mary M. Henry, who was born in Logan County, July 30, 1858; she is a daughter of George W. and Margaret (deceased) Henry. They have two children-Maggie M. and Perry R. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Chordy L. Drake, also a son of our subject, was born March 1, 1851, in Union County, Ohio, and received in his youth a good common school education. When eighteen years of age, he began teaching school, which he followed alternately for perhaps ten years. On March 13, 1875, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah A. Dally, daughter of Isaac and Louisa (deceased) Dally. To them has been born one child - Avis E., born April 22, 1880. Mr. Drake has been Superintendent of the Bethel Sunday School in York Township, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, as is also his wife. Politically, he is a Republican, and he is the owner of ninety-three acres of land. Isaac Dally, father of Mrs. Drake, was born April 19, 1829, in Richland County, Ohio, and is a son of John and Mary A. Dally, In September, 1851, he married Louisa Hupp, by whom he had two children-Sarah A. and John W. (deceased); she died in June 1858, and in June 1860, he was married to Mary E. Ballinger, daughter of Caleb and Hannah Ballenger. By this Union there has been an issue of six children-Mary L., Zoah M., Zell B., Rebecca M., Ivory E. and Ivy E. In 1860, Mr. Dally came to York Township, Union County; he is the owner of about 387 acres of land, and resides in the northwestern, portion of York Township. JONAS FIGLEY, farmer and blacksmith, P. O. York. The subject of this sketch was born in Washington County, Penn., February 18, 1814; his parents were Jonas and Elizabeth Figley. When a young man he learned the trade of blacksmithing, which he followed for forty years. In 1834, he came to Jefferson County, Ohio, where he remained one year and then moved to Carroll County, where he followed his trade eleven years. He was married, October 3O, 1834. to Miss Mary Middleswarth, by whom he had ten children, seven of whom are now living, viz. : Margaret M., Emily S., Mary M., Elizabeth M., Rebecca A., Calvin M. and Sarah. M. About the year 1846, he came to Union County and settled in York Township, where he now resides. In connection with his farming, he also, until the year 1874, followed his trade, He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, the owner of 115 acres of land, and resides in the northern portion of the township. STEPHEN FLICKINGER (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born. May 4, 1823. in Tuscarawas County, Ohio; his parents were John and Margaret Flickinger, natives of Pennsylvania, 542 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. who settled in Tuscarawas County at an early day. He, spent his youth on a farm, and received ordinary district school education. On August 7, 1845, in Tuscarawas County, he was united in marriage to Miss Margaret A. Figley, who was born December 23, 1825, in Tuscarawas County, and is a daughter of Jacob and Anne Figley. her father a native of Pennsylvania, and her mother of Maryland. By this union there was an issue of eight children, viz. : William E., Jacob M., Eliza J., Margaret O., John W., Mary E., Samuel H. and Joseph F. the latter two of whom are deceased. In October 1854, with his family. he came to Union County and settled in the northern portion of York Township. He died January 22, 1869, leaving to his widow a farm of 1.53 acres. He was an exemplary man in life, modest in manner, charitable in all things anti highly esteemed throughout the community. For many years he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, taking an active interest in his church duties and leading a true Christian life. WILLIAM T. FULTON, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born October 22, 1818, in Maryland; in 1836, with his parents, David and Ann M. Fulton, he emigrated to Union County, Ohio, settling in York Township, where they remained until their decease. He was from his early youth reared on a farm and received but a limited education. In January, 1859, he married Miss Harriett A. Neil, daughter of Solomon and Ann H. Neil, of Marysville, this county. This union has been blessed with five children, viz.: Ulysses G., Mary N.. William, Jennie H. and Joseph H. (the latter two of whom are deceased). Mr. Fulton has for six years served as a Commissioner of Union County, and also as Trustee and Clerk of York Township he is of a social, entertaining disposition and quite, popular, and the owner of 304 acres of land. He resides in the southeastern portion of York Township. JOHN M. GUNDER, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The parents of the subject of this sketch, Abraham and Magdalena Gunder, emigrated from Pennsylvania to Ohio in 1834. They first came to Marion County, then to Crawford County, residing several years in each, and finally they moved to Wyandot County, where they remained until her decease in 1868. He died in Union County in July 1878. They were the parents of nine children, of whom six are now living, viz.: Jonathan, John M., James M., Daniel H., Nancy J. and Julia. Our subject was born in Pennsylvania October 18, 1833, and when one year old, with his parents he was brought to Ohio. He was reared to man's estate on a farm, and received the rudiments of education in a district school. On February 10, 1859, in Wyandot County, he married Phoebe A. Brooks, who was born November 26, 1840; she is a daughter of Joseph S, and Phoebe Brooks, of Wyandot County. To them have been born nine children-Charles E. D., Pinkney B., Jolla B.. Zeddie U., Harry 0., Madison H., Frances A., Zeffie U. and an infant son not yet named, Frances A. and Zeffie U. are deceased. In the spring of 1875, with his family, he came to Union County and settled in York Township. After his marriage, according to his own statement, "he had not one dollar with which to begin housekeeping," but by economy, perseverance and hard work he has been by degrees increasing his scanty store until to-day he is the owner of an estate of nearly 300 acres. He is a self-made man in the true sense of the word. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the I. O. O. F. society. He resides in the southern portion of York Township. THOMAS C. HAMILTON, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born in Claibourne Township, Union County, July 18, 1849, and when a mere child, with his parents, Cornelius and Louisa Hamilton, both now deceased, he moved to Marysville, where he remained until he reached the years of manhood. On February 27, 1872, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Vance, daughter of John and Phoeba Vance, of Union County. To them have been born two children, viz.: Cornelius, born February 2, 1873, and Centennial, born July 19, 1876. In January, 1871, Mr. Hamilton settled in the southern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He is the owner of 109 acres of land in a good state of cultivation, and one of York Township's energetic farmers. VIRGIL HARRIS, farmer, P.O. York. Jacob Harris, father of the subject of this sketch, was born October 26, 1810, in Knox County, Ohio, and was a son of Joseph and Rachel Harris, both natives of Virginia, who settled in Knox County at an early day. On June 5, 1834, in Knox County, he married Elizabeth Stults, who was born January 23, 1806, in Licking County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Adam and Margaret Stubs, early settlers of Licking County. To them have been born seven children-David J., Virgil, George W., Margaret, Alvira, Mary and Sarah. With his family in 1854, Mr. Barris came from Knox to Union County and settled in York Township where he now resides, he is a member of the United Brethren Church, and the owner of 135 acres of land. Our subject was born in Licking County, Ohio, October 23, 1842, and in 1854, with Lis parents, came to Union County, where, on April 15, 1882, he married Miss Emma Miller. Mr. Harris is a young man with good prospects of a successful future. He resides on his farm, which is pleasantly located near York Center. AMOS P. HARVEY, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born November 24, 1829, in New Hampshire, and about the year 1837, with his parents, Erastus and Betsy E. Harvey, he emigrated to Champaign County, Ohio. He remained in Champaign Courtly until about twelve years of age, when, with his parents, he located for three years in Logan County. From Logan he went to Clark County, where, on September 20, 1855, he was united in marriage with Miss Margaret A. Tuttle, who was born in December 1833, and was a YORK TOWNSHIP. - 543 daughter of John and Margaret Tuttle, of Clark County. This union has been blessed with ten children, viz. : John P., Lanson B., Harry C., Charles E., Willis T., Dennis M., Emma (deceased), Edward P., Howard and Ethel. In 1859. from Clark County, Mr. Harvey came to Union County end Settled in the western portion of York Township, where he now resides. In February, 1865, enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and continued in the service until the following September. He has served as Justice of the Peace and Trustee of York Township. In the management of his farm he has everything done in the most orderly and advantageous manner. He is the owner of 375 acres of land, upon which is built a fine residence and other commodious buildings, making it one of the finest farms in Union County. JOHN H. HOOVER, farmer, P. O York. The subject of this sketch was born June 5, 1827, in Jefferson County, Ohio; his parents were Adam Hoover, a native of Maryland, and Rachel Hoover, who in 1851 or 1852, came from Harrison to Union County, Ohio. Of their family of ten children, five are now living, viz. : James, Charles, William M., Rachel A. and John H. They settled on Bakes Creek, in York Township, where they spent the remainder of their days. Our subject, when three years of age, with his parents, located in Harrison County, where he married Miss Catharine Hines, who was born August 31, 1826; she is a daughter of Christopher and Jane Hines. To them have been born one son-William H., born October 15, 1849, in Harrison County; he was married December 21, 1871, to Miss Lavelle Shirk, who was born July 21, 1849; she is a daughter of Henson and Nancy J. Shirk, of Union County. About the year 1852, our subject came to Union County and settled in York Township, where he now resides. During the war of the late rebellion, he enlisted in the service for a few months. He has served as School Director, is a member of the M. E. Church, and the owner of fifty-seven acres of land. JOHN HUFFMAN (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, August 24, 1830; he was a son of Benjamin and Mary Huffman, natives of Pennsylvania, and when fifteen years old, with them, he came to Knox County, Ohio where his mother died, and where his father still resides. On September 10, 1853, in Knox County, he married Sarah I Dally, daughter of John and Mary A. Dally, who died about one year after marriage. On September 18,1860, he married Miss Almina Skidmore, who was born August 30, 1843, in Union County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Isaac and Sarah A. Skidmore, of York Township, whose sketch appears in this work. By this union there has been an issue of five children, viz.: Dora A., born November 2, 1865; Hamer I., born July 18, 1868; Bertis, born April 6, 1871; Eldon, born February 23, 1814; and Mary I., born April 31, 1879. In 1867, he settled in the Southwestern portion of York Township, where his widow still resides. Mr. Huffman was a member of the Baptist Church, and left to his widow a fine farm of 164 acres. He was an indulgent father and an affectionate husband and departed this life March 1, 1879. JOHN B. HYDE, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, a pioneer of York Township, was born March 4, 1815, in Harrison County, Ohio. His parents were Samuel and Elizabeth Hyde, natives of Pennsylvania. In the spring of the year 1832, his father came from Harrison County and bought a tract of land on Bokes Creek, in York Township, and after having cleared it and planted corn and vegetables, he returned to Harrison County for the purpose of bringing with him his family. On their way, in Delaware County, he was taken ill, and shortly after died. Our subject with the rest of the family, however, came and settled on the land, which his father bought. On December 23, 1837, he married Eliza Davis, who was born October 23, 1817, in Pennsylvania; she is a daughter of David and Keziah Davis, of whom we have made mention in another portion of this work. By this union there has been an issue of nine children, of whom six are now living, viz.: Keziah, Thomas B., Rebecca A., Mary M., William F. and Nancy One of his sons George W. Hyde (deceased), enlisted in February 1862, in the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated in several prominent engagements, but owing to an illness, which he contracted by exposure, he was discharged in the fall of the same year from the service and returned home. He re-enlisted in February, 1864, and was killed at the battle of Resaca, Ga., on May 26, 1864. For two years, Mr. Hyde has served as Trustee of York Township, and for many years he has been a School Director. He and his wife are members of the M. E. Church, and he is the owner of 130 acres of land. NESBIT JANUARY, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Greene County, Ohio, August 4, 1826. In 1829, with his parents, James and Catherine January, he came to Marysville, Union County, where, with them, he remained until eleven years of age. From Marysville he went to Logan County, where he remained until 1853, at which time he returned to Union County. On September 21, 1854, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah M. Savage, who was born February 28, 1833, in Champaign County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Austin and Irene, Savage. To them have been born thirteen children-Irena, Orson, James, Ira, Wickliffe, Mary, Otway, Reuben, Caroline, Huston, and three who are deceased. In 1853, Mr. January settled in the northwestern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He is a direct descendant of a Huguenot family, who with many others were persecuted in France, and came to America, where they gained their religious freedom. His father was a native of Kentucky, and his mother of Maryland; they were married in Greene 544 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. County, Ohio, January 22, 1822. By this union there was an issue of six children-Huston Nesbit, Martha, Elizabeth, and two deceased. His father died in 1842, and his mother in 1854, Our subject has been successful in business, and is the owner of 196 acres of land. JOSHUA KELLER, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born December 4, 1826, in Union County, Ohio; his parents, were Frederick and Rachel Keller, who came to York Township, Union County, about the year 1820. He was reared to man's estate on a farm, and received but a rudimentary education. He resided with his parents until April 25, 1852, at which time he married Mary I, Ballinger, who was born in May, 1834, in Logan County; she was a daughter of Thomas and Patience Ballinger. To them have been born four children, three of whom are now living-Celestia F., Henry N. J., Zylpha G. and Rudy W. (deceased). Shortly after the date of his marriage, Mr. Keller settled in the southern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He has served as School Director, has been successful as an agriculturist, and is the owner of 163 acres of land. LEVI LANE (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born August 30, 1811, in North Carolina, and, when a youth, with his parents, Benjamin and Mary Lane, he came to Logan County, Ohio. On December 10, 1832, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Skidmore, who was born April 21, 1811; she was a daughter of William and Mary Skidmore. By this union there was an issue of fourteen children, ten of whom are now living, viz.: Ruth J., Mary, William, Jasper, Lemuel, Thomas N., John M., Rachel E., Susan S. and Matilda A. He settled in Logan County and remained there until 1855, in which year he came to Union County and settled in the southern portion of York Township. He settled in the woods, comparatively speaking, and by his industry and perseverance succeeded in making for his family a comfortable home. He died August 31, 1862, respected by all who knew him. He was a kind and loving father and an indulgent husband. His widow survives him, and at present resides with her son William in York Township. William Lane, a son of our subject, was born May 17, 1838, in Logan County, Ohio, and on April 7, 1859, married Emma J. Munsell, who was born October 14, 1843, in Logan County; she is a daughter of Alvin and Mary T. Munsell. By this union there has been an issue of nine children-Cora L., Calvin W., William T., Benjamin F., Laura L., James W., Ara, Ovid D. and Zella O. He is a member of the Baptist Church and the owner of fifty-seven acres of land. JOHN M. LANE, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Logan County, Ohio, September 6, 1846; his parents are Levi Lane (deceased) and Mary Lane, of whom a biography appears in this work. He was reared to man's estate on a farm and received a common school education. On September 3, 1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Tobey, daughter of Charles and Mary J. Tobey, of Liberty Township, Union County. To them were born three children, viz., Omar, Estella and Elverta. Mr. Lane has been quite successful in business, and is the owner of forty acres of land in a good state of cultivation He resides in the southern portion of York Township. ABEL LINSLEY, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, was born in Vermont March 31, 1816; his parents were Simeon and Utilla Linsley, who came to Delaware County, Ohio, at quite an early day. He was reared to manhood on a farm and received but a limited education. By his first wife, Nancy (Carr) Linsley, he had three children, two of whom are now living, viz., Alice and Henry N. He married his present wife, who was born in June, 1833, on August 17, 1873. Mr. Linsley is a life-long farmer by occupation, and resides on his farm near Summersville. WILLIAM McGINNIS, farmer, P. O. Richwood. The subject of this sketch was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, January 7, 1818, and is a son of Johnson and Margaret McGinnis, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Muskingum County, Ohio, about the year 1817, where they remained until 1854, in which year they came to York Township, Union County, where they spent the remainder of their days. They were the parents of nine children, of whom three are now living, viz., William, George and Nancy. Our subject was reared to man's estate on a farm and received but a rudimentary education. In September 1840, in Muskingum County, he was united in marriage to Mary Hartford, by whom he had four children-Andrew N., Amelia, Albert O. and John (deceased). She died July 4, 1861, and he was again married in April 1865, to Mary J. Sterling, daughter of David and Mary Sterling. By this union there has been an issue of four children-John S., Agnes G., James H. and David W., the latter two of whom are deceased. In 1865, he settled where he now resides, in the northern portion of York Township. He has been successful in business, and is the owner of 200 acres of land. ROBERT McILROY, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, was born in Washington County, Penn., August 27, 1809; his parents were John and Nancy McIlroy, with whom when six years of age he came to Harrison County, Ohio, where his mother died in 1832. Of a family of twelve children there are now but two living viz. : Robert and George. His father married for his second wife, Mrs. A. Murphy, who survived him, he having died in 1838. On August 17, 1830, our subject was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca Dickinson, daughter of George and Anxious Dickinson. To them have been born seventeen children, eleven of whom are now living, viz. : John, Silas, David, Robert D., Samuel S., Thomas M., Eliza, Keziah and Theresa, Hester A. and Susan E. In 1833, with his wife and three children, he came to Union County, where after residing in different parts, he in the spring of 1877 settled in the southern portion of York YORK TOWNSHIP. - 545 Township, where he now resides. He attended and voted at the first election held in York Township at the house of Aaron Shirk. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for many years has officiated as class leader, and is the owner of 153 acres of land. ANDREW McNEIL, farmer, P. O. Richwood. The subject of this sketch was born in Chester County, Penn., March 23, 1811. His parents were Andrew and Margery McNeil. In November 1888, he emigrated to Ohio, and came to Tuscarawas County, where he remained nearly one year. In September 1839, he came to Union County and for several years located in Claibourne Township. In October 1848, he was elected Auditor of Union County, and entered upon the duties of his office in March 1849, serving until March 1853. During the term of his Auditorship, he resided in Marysville, with his family. In 1853, he removed to Claibourne Township, where he resided until 1862, in which year he settled in the northeastern portion of York Township, where he now resides. For his first wife, he married in Pennsylvania, Mary Criswell, daughter of Isaac and Martha Criswell, by whom he had seven children, two now living, viz.: Samuel A. and Mariam R. She died in October 1861, and he was married on June 16,1862, to Mrs. Catherine N. Patterson, widow of the late John Patterson, of Adams County, Ohio; she was born July 5, 1812, in Saratoga County, N. Y. In October 1857, Mr. McNeil was elected a Commissioner of Union County, and discharged the duties of that office with credit six years. He has also served as Trustee of Claibourne Township and as Clerk of York Township. He is Elder of the Presbyterian Church, and has a fine farm of 120 acres of land, under a high state of cultivation. WILLIAM H. McPECK, retired farmer, P. O. Richwood. The subject of this sketch was born February 27, 1817, in Westmoreland County, Penn. ; his parents were John and Sarah McPeck. In the spring of 1838, he emigrated to Harrison County, Ohio, and began the trade of brick laying and stone-cutting, which he afterward followed for about forty years. On July 22,1841, in Tuscarawas County, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Speck, who was born May 20, 1820, in Washington County, Penn.; her parents were William and Margaret Speck, who came to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, about the year 1834. To Mr. and Mrs. McPeck, have been born six children-George M., Margaret J., Isabel A., Stephen S., Sarah A. and Mary E. For ten years after his marriage Mr. McPeck resided in Harrison County, and from there he moved to Washington Township, Union County, where he remained until April, 1872, at which time he located in the northern portion of York Township, where he at present resides. He has served as Trustee of Washington Township, is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He owns 224 acres of land located in Washington Township. JAMES F. MEDDLES (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born May 2, 1813, in Harrison County, Ohio. He was a son of John and Parmelia Meddles, with whom, when a young man, he moved to Tuscarawas County, where he married, on April 16, 1886, Miss Sarah Horn; she was born October 25, 1815, in Delaware, and was a daughter of Moses and Sarah Horn, who came to Harrison County, Ohio, about the year 1815. By this union there has been an issue of five children, viz.: Gary, Sarah, Rebecca J., John W. and Mary J., the latter two of whom are deceased. About the year 1850, Mr. Meddles, with his family, come to Union County, from Tuscarawas County, and settled in the eastern portion of York Township, where he died July 25, 1880, and where his widow now resides. He was a member of the United Brethren Church, and left to his family 142 acres of land. In his death, York Township lost one of her best citizens, and his family a loving parent and husband. MILEY G. MEDDLES, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born July 29, 1818, in Harrison County, Ohio. His parents were John and Parmelia Meddles, who emigrated from Pennsylvania to Harrison County, Ohio, about the year 1801. He was retired to manhood on a farm, and received the rudiments of an English education in a district school. On September 13, 1842, he was united in marriage with bliss Susan Yantiss, who was born January 2, 1816, in Maryland; she is a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Yantiss, who emigrated from Frederick County, Md., to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, at an early day. To them have been born three children, viz.: Jacob C., James F. and Joseph J., all of whom are deceased. Mr. Meddles resided in Tuscarawas County until 1852, in which year he came to Union County, and settled in the eastern portion of York Township. He is the owner of 225 acres of land, which he has acquired mainly by his determination to succeed and by bard work. For several years his health has been on the decline. With his faithful wife, who has shared his joys and sorrows for forty years, he resides where he first settled. ANTHONY MIDDLESWORTH, farmer, P. O. Byhalia. The subject of this sketch was born November 8, 1818, in Columbiana (now Carroll) County, Ohio. His parents were Abraham and Margaret Middlesworth, who emigrated from Virginia to what is now known as Carroll County, about the year 1815 or 1816. In his youth Mr. Middlesworth received but a meager education, the school advantages in his day being far more limited than to-day. In August, 1840, in Carroll County, he married Miss Jane Dennison; she was born in Pennsylvania, and is a daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth Dennison, who emigrated to Carroll County probably in the year 1835. To them have been born eight children-William, Elizabeth, Margaret, Andrew J., Joseph F., Robert B., Mary M. and Emily J., the latter two of whom are deceased. In 1846, with his family, he came to Union County, and settled in the northern portion of York Town- 546 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. ship, where he still resides. He has served as School Director many years; is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and the owner of 303 1/2 acres of land. JAMES C. MILLER (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born in Chenango County, N. Y., October 12, 1806. When twelve years of age, with his parents, Joseph and Jemima Miller, he emigrated to Franklin County, Ohio, where they remained several years, when they came to Union County, and settled in York Township. In October 1828, in Franklin County, he was united in matrimony to Roxy Ann Wason; who was born May 22, 1806; she is a daughter of Thomas and Keziah Wason, who accompanied our subject's parents on their way to Ohio. In 1829, with his wife, he came to Union County and settled in the northeastern portion of York Township. where his widow now resides. To them were born seven children -Justice J., Eveline E., Jane K., Keziah J., Daniel D., Jonathan G., and Martha E., the latter four of whom are deceased. Mr. Miller was a member of the United Brethren Church, a kind and affectionate father, and loving husband, and departed this life in October 1878. He left to his family 180 acres of land. ROLIN H. MONTGOMERY, farmer, P. O. Byhalia. The subject of this sketch was born in Licking County, Ohio, March 31, 1816, and when about two years old, with his parents, Joseph Montgomery (deceased) and Emily Montgomery, he removed to Knox County, where his father died, February 28, 1880, and where his mother still resides. On February 16, 1869, he married Miss Sarah E. Headington, daughter of James and Ruth Headington, of Knox County. This union has been blessed with one child, viz., John H., born February 16, 1871. In April, 1876, he came to Union County, and for five years located in Washington Township, from thence coming to York Township, in the northern portion of which he settled. Mr. Montgomery is a self-made man, having acquired all he possesses by industry and hard work. He is the owner of 1021 acres of land, pleasantly located and in a good state of cultivation. JOHN A. MORROW, farmer P. O. York. Charles Morrow, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Bucks County, Penn., April 1810. His parents were Charles and Rachel A. Morrow, his father, a veteran of the war of 1812, who served as a First Lieutenant, was a native of Ireland and his mother a native of Wales. Prior to the war of 1812, with them he came to Belmont County, Ohio, where he remained until, perhaps, sixteen years of age, when he went Wheeling, W. Va., to learn the trade of stone-cutting, which he followed several years. In 1831, he married Esther McElroy, by whom he had five children, four of whom are now living, viz.: John A., Charles W., William M. and Sarah E. About the year 1839, from Belmont County he came to Summersville, Union County, and began the practice of medicine to which he adhered until 1874, when he moved to Mount Victory, Hardin County, where he died in July 1879. His widow survives him and resides at the latter place. The subject of this sketch was born May 20, 1832, in Belmont County, Ohio, and when about seven years old, with his parents he came to York Township, Union County. Having received a rudimentary education for one year, he attended the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. In March 1864, he enlisted in the Thirteenth Ohio Cavalry, Army of the Potomac, and participated in the battles of the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, White House Landing, the siege of Petersburg, and the surrender of Gen. Lee with his army at Appomattox Court House. He was honorably discharged in June 1865. In October 1854, he was joined in matrimony to Miss Elizabeth Storms, a daughter of Gregory and Melinda Storms, of whom we have made mention in this work, They have four children - Esther M., Jessie D., Charles G. and Samuel J. Mr. Morrow is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, the I. O. O. F. Lodge, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church; he is the owner of ninety-six acres of land and resides in the northern portion of York Township. WILLIAM M. MORROW, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, was born in Union County, Ohio, January 25, 1839, and is a son of Charles Morrow (deceased) and Esther Morrow, of whom we have mentioned in John A. Morrow's sketch. In his nineteenth year he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, which institution he attended alternately for about five years. Is March 1864, he enlisted in the Thirteenth Ohio Cavalry, Army of the Potomac, and he participated in many engagements a few of the leading ones being White House Landing, Cold Harbor He has and the siege of Petersburg, where he received a spinal injury occasioned by a fall into a rifle pit while crossing the battle-field under cover of darkness, after which he was confined in the Washington Hospital several months and honorably discharged in June 1865. On February 22, 1866. he was united in marriage to Miss Lemenda J: Langstaff, daughter of James H. and Catherine Langstaff, of Union County. To them have been born five children-Florence L., Anna L., Carrie L., Lizzie R. and Flora (deceased). Mr. Morrow resides in the eastern portion of York Township, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the owner of ninety three acres of land. JONAS ORDERS. farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, August 18, 1844. His parents were Joshua and Frances Orders. He was from his youth trained to the pursuits of agriculture and received but a rudimentary education. On October 10, 1866, he was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Knagi, who was horn February 19, 1843, in Switzerland: she is a daughter of John and Elizabeth Knagi, who emigrated to America in 1850. After of land spending two years in Brooklyn, N. Y came to Franklin County, Ohio, where they now reside. By this union there has been an issue of two children-Flora and Mary E., the latter of whom YORK TOWNSHIP. - 547 is deceased. In the autumn of 1881, Mr. Orders with his family came from Franklin County, Ohio. to Union County and settled in the eastern portion of York Township where he now resides. He is a member of the Christian Church, has been successful in business and is the owner of sixty-eight and a half acres of land. CHRISTOPHER OVERHOLSER, farmer, P. O. York. The subject of this sketch was born in Clark County, Ohio, December 2, 1842, and is a son of Christian Overholser (deceased) and Rebecca Overholser, natives of Virginia, who settled in Clark County perhaps in 1835. On February 8, 1866, he was united in marriage to Huldah C. King, who was born September 15, 1846, in Licking County, Ohio ; she is a daughter of Tilleson King (deceased) and Mary F. King, now of Auglaize County, Ohio. To them have been born three children-Earnest T , Nona L. and one that died in infancy. In September, 1862. he enlisted in the Eighty first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the battles of Dallas, Jonesboro, siege of Atlanta and the whole of Sherman's campaign, including the grand march to the sea. He received in June 1865, an honorable discharge having served his country faithfully. In April 1880, he came to Union County and settled near York Center, in York Township, where he now resides. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a republican, and the owner of fifty acres land. JOHN PENHORWOOD, farmer and minister, P. O. York, was born in England September 20,1820; his parents were John and Jane Penhorwood. In 1840, he took passage at Bristol, and after a voyage of more than six weeks, during which they encountered variable weather, he arrived in New York. From the latter city he came to Knox County, Ohio, where he spent four years at blacksmithing and a few years at farming. On January 6, 1842, he married Miss Elizabeth Lyle, who was born May 12, 1817; her parents were John and Susan Lyle. To them have been born eight children, viz.: John H., William F., Elizabeth J., Annie L., Sarah H., Ida A., Mary S. and Rebecca, the latter two of whom are deceased. From Knox County Mr. Penhorwood removed to Delaware County, where he resided until 1865, in which year he came to Union County, York Township. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for fifteen years has devoted himself to preaching. He is the owner of 285 acres of land. WILLIAM PERKINS, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, October 8, 1825, and is a son of John and Phoebe Perkins. With his parents when about fourteen years of age, he came to Union County, and settled on the farm now owned by Wesley Southard, in the southwestern portion of York Township, where his parents remained until the fall of 1864, at which time they went to Allen County, Ind., where they remained until their decease. Of a family of eight children three are now living-our subject, George W. and Melissa J. On October 7, 1854, our subject married Caroline M. Rea, who was born January 7, 1833, in Logan County; she is a daughter of David and Ruth Rea, early settlers of Logan County. The fruits of this union were three children, of whom two are now living, viz.: Franklin W. and French W. Shortly after the date of his marriage, Mr. Perkins began keeping house in a log cabin near where he now resides. In 1874, having built a house of more modern architecture, which was better suited to the tastes and wants of the family, he moved therein. In May 1864, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio National Guards, and continued in the service until the following September. He has been successful as a farmer, owing mainly to his industry and skillful management, having everything done in the most orderly and advantageous manner. He is a member of the Disciples Church, and the owner of 161 acres of tillable land. He resides near where his father settled. WILLIAM H. PLOTNER, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield, was born August 1, 1828, in Fairfield County, Ohio, and when but a few months old was taken by his parents, John Plotner, a native of Virginia, and Julia Plotner, a native of Ohio, to Jefferson County, where they located for perhaps twelve years. From there with them he went to Harrison County, where they remained until 1851, in which year they removed to Illinois, where they remained until their decease, he in 1855, and she in 1863. Our subject in his youth received but an ordinary district school education, but being of studious habits and having a love for good books, he has made himself familiar with many important topics of this day and age. In July 1852, he was married to Miss Mary A. White, who was born March 24, 1833, in Virginia, anti when three years of age, with her parents, John F. and Belinda White, she came to Tuscarawas County, Ohio. This union has been blessed with seven children-John W., Robert L., George F., William N., Laura J., James A. and Alonzo G. (deceased). After his marriage he resided in Tuscarawas County until 1863, in which year with his family he came to Union County. In 1864, he settled in the northwestern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He has served as Justice of the Peace thirteen years, and is still serving. Mr. Plotner is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the owner of a fine farm of 100 acres. GEORGE W. POTTS, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born March 25, 1836, in Ross County, Ohio; he was a son of James and Ruth Potts. In December 1857, having reached the years of manhood, he married Miss Catherine J. Potts, by whom he had five children, four now living. viz.: John A., Lasco, David W. and Ida J. Mrs. Potts died May 18, 1876, and on September 27, 1876, Mr. Potts was married to Miss Jane Clark, a daughter of John and Jane Clark, of Carroll County. By her he has three children-Arthur, Cora B. and Ernest. In 1859, he came to York Township, this county, and settled near where he now resides. He 548 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. is a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, and the owner of a fine farm, located south of Summersville. JOHN G. RICE, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, was born April 2, 1833, in Union County, Ohio; his parents were Payn and Margaret Rice, who in 1830 came to Union from Hamilton County, and located in Liberty Township for twelve years, and then moved to Logan County, where they remained until 1866, in which year they returned to Union County, and made their home in York Township; where they remained until their decease, he in September, 1865, and she in September 1863. When eighteen years of age, our subject began to learn the trade of a cabinet-maker in Marysville, which business he followed for about ten years. On February 21, 1860, he married Miss Ellen Essex, who was born February 9, 1827, in Ross County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Joseph and Cynthia Essex; four of their children are yet living, viz Jonathan P., Sarah A., William O. and Dora A. Subsequent to his marriage he located in Logan County three years, when he came to Union County, and in 1868 he settled about one mile southwest of Summersville, York Township, where he now resides. Mr. Rice has been quite successful in business, having had but comparatively little with which to start in life. He now owns fifty-four acres of land on which he as at present building a new and more modern house than the cabin in which he resides. In February 1865, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and continued in the service till the following January, when he was honorably discharged. ANDREW J. RICHARDSON, physician and surgeon, P. O. Bokes Creek, was horn September 21, 1829, in Cayuga County, N. Y. When ten years of age with his parents, Richard S. Richardson, a soldier of the war of 1812, and Susan Richardson, he came to Summit County, Ohio, where they remained five years. From Summit they moved to Licking County, where they remained until 1855, in which year they came to York Township, Union County, where they remained until their decease. Our subject spent his youthful days on a farm, receiving a fair English education. During the latter part of 1857 and the beginning of 1868, he attended Starling Medical College at Columbus for five months, and again attended the same institution the following fall and winter and graduated in March 1869. However, for five years prior to attending college, he had read and practiced medicine. He located at Summersville, York Township, and enjoys a good practice, On October 15, 1857, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan M Smith daughter of the late Judge James R. Smith, of Union County. By this union there has been an issue of four children-Albert J., Elmer O., Ethel C. and Effie C. (deceased) Mr. Richardson is a member of the I. O. O. F. and F. & A. M. societies, and a member of the M. E. Church. DANIEL M. RUSSEL, farmer, P. O. York. The subject of this sketch was born in Delaware County, Ohio, September 30, 1819, and is a son of Joseph and Betsy Russel, natives of Connecticut, who came to Delaware County, Ohio, in 1817. From his early youth Mr. Russ,, has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, in which he has been successful. On November 20, 1843, in Delaware County, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Lavender; she was born October 16, 1825, in Knox County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Thomas Lavender, an Englishman, and Maria Lavender, a native of Massachusetts. This union has been blessed with six children - Thomas L., Louisa, Joseph M. and three who are deceased. In 1870, he came to Union County, and settled in the northern portion of York Township, where he still reside, He served as Clerk of Thompson Township, Delaware County, and also as Treasurer. He is a member of the M. E. Church, and the owner of a fine farm of 200 acres. MILTON M. SHIPLEY, farmer, P. O. Richwood, was born in Fayette County, Penn., August 31, 1822 ; when fourteen years of age with his parents, Benedict and Abigail Shipley. he came to Knox County, Ohio, where his parents located until about 1867, when they moved to Warren County, where they located ten years. In 1867, they came to Claibourne Township, Union County, where they remained until their decease, he in August 1874, and she in February 1870. They were the parents of thirteen children-Milton M., Agnes, Adam R., Sarah, Matilda, Mary, Ruth, Elizabeth, Emily, Maria, Henry, George and Laura. On October 13, 1845, our subject was united in marriage with Miss Ann Adams, who was born December 3, 1822; she is a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Adams, of Knox County, Ohio. This union has been blessed with eight children-Joseph A., William, John J., Henry, Charles G., George. Kingsley and Julia, the latter three of whom are deceased. Mr. Shipley resided in Knox County until 1861, in which year he moved to Madison County, Ky., where he located until 1865, when he came to Union County, and settled in the eastern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the owner of 535 acres of land. AARON SHIRK, farmer, P. O York. A pioneer of York Township, was born June 12, 1810, in Virginia; his parents were John and Sarah Shirk. In 1818, with them he came to Ross, County, Ohio, where they remained until 1820, in which year they came to Union County and settled in Liberty Township, where they remained until their decease, both having reached a ripe old age. Of a family of fourteen children, nine are now living, Betsy, Henson, Isaac, John. Silas, Lucinda, Sarah A., Jemima and Aaron. On May 9, 1834, our subject was married to Rosanna Tobey, daughter of Heman and Hannah Tobey, of whom we have made men- Page 549 - Picture of Amon Davis Page 550 - Blank YORK TOWNSHIP. - 551 tion in this work. They are said to have been the first couple married in York Township after its organization. To them were born five children-Sarah A., Hannah R., John H., Heman T. and Melinda S. (deceased). After enjoying a life of domestic peace and happiness for nearly half P. century with his faithful consort, she was suddenly called away on May 29, 1879. Mr. Shirk cast the first vote in York Township; the first election having been held in his house, he claimed the right to cast the first vote. He is the owner of sixty-two acres of land, and resides near York Center. He is a member of the Free- Will Baptist Church. WILLIAM SIGLER (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born in Maryland, in August 1812; his parents were William and Grace Sigler. When a young man, with his mother, his father being deceased, he came to York Township, Union County, and settled near Summersville, where she lived but a few years. On October 24, 1839, he married Miss Mary A. Cork, who was born in May 1819; she is a daughter of John and Rebecca Cork, of Ross County, Ohio. To them were born eight children, viz., Minerva, Isaac J., Washington, Rebecca, Susan, Sylvester John T. and William M., the latter two of whom are deceased. In the spring of 1843, he settled where his widow now resides. He served as Assessor and Treasurer of York Township, and discharged the duties of the offices in a creditable manner. He was a kind and loving father and affectionate husband; his widow and children feel their irreparable loss, but we trust their loss is his gain. He departed this life in May 1865. Isaac J. Sigler, one of the sees of our subject, was born in Union County, Ohio, August 24, 1844. From his boyhood he has devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits. In December 1861, he enlisted in Company H, Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until December 1864, at which time he received an honorable discharge. He participated in the battles of Cross Keys, Cedar Mountain, the second battle of Bull's Run, and many other engagements. For his first wife he married Emma B. Watts, daughter of Hiram and Sarah Watts, whose sketch appears in this work; she died January 1, 1879. He then married Miss Eliza J. Flickinger, daughter of Stephen Flickinger, (deceased), and Margaret A. Flickinger, whose sketch appears in this work. They have one child, Forrey O. He has served as Clerk of York Township two years, and as Assessor, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. WILLIAM M. SKIDMORE, farmer, P.O. West Mansfield. Our subject was born September 14, 1823, in Logan County, Ohio; his parents were Joseph and Rebecca (deceased) Skidmore, of whom we have made mention in Thomas Skidmore's sketch. Having passed his youth on a farm and reached the years of manhood, on September 23, 1846, he married Miss Lydia Whitaker, daughter of Nathaniel and Elizabeth Whitaker. To them were born three children, two of whom are now living, viz., Jefferson D. and Elizabeth. She died in September, 1857, and in, January 1858, he was married to Harriet S. Moore, daughter of William B. and Nancy Moore, of Logan County. By her he has one son-Joseph W. Mr. Skidmore resides in the western portion of York Township, and is the owner of 266 acres of good land. He is a member of the Baptist Church. THOMAS SKIDMORE, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Logan County, Ohio, February 13, 1825; his parents were Joseph and Rebecca (deceased) Skidmore. About the year 1815, his father, with his parents, came to Logan County, where he married Rebecca Garwood, by whom he had seven children, five of whom are now living, viz., William M., Thomas, Isaac M., John F. and Hope. His wife dying, he married Rebecca Whit taker; seven children are the issue of this marriage, viz., Lydia J., Nancy L., Rebecca E., Lavina, Joseph, Franklin H. and Josiah C. Our subject was reared on a farm and received rather a limited education. On August 24, 1848, in Logan County, he was united in marriage to Miss Hannah J. Drake, who was born June 25, 1831, in Logan County; she is a daughter of Chordy and Sarah Drake, of whom we have made mention in this work. This union has been blessed with five children, viz.: Sarah E., born June 27, 1850; Spain A., born November 20, 1852: Sylvanus H., born August 5,1856; Roxy A., born July 7, 1863; and Eva M., born January 13,1866. In November 1851, Mr. Skidmore moved from Logan County to Union County and settled in the western portion of York Township, where he still resides. He hag a fine farm of 185 acres, on which he has erected a very desirable residence. He is a member of the Baptist Church. In February 1865, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and continued in the service until the autumn of the same year. ISAAC SKIDMORE, farmer, P.O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, December 13, 1813; he is a son of William and Mary Skidmore, who came from Virginia to Columbiana and subsequently to Logan County, Ohio, at an early day. Of a family of eleven children, five are now living. When four years of age, Isaac, with his parents, came to Logan County, where, in November 1836, he married Sarah A. Haines, who was born, December 4, 1819, in Champaign County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Joseph and Rachel Haines. To them have been born five children, viz.: Emeline, born June 20, 1839; Alonzo, born June 7, 1841; Almina, born August 30, 1843; John W., born July 26, 1845; and Heater A., born January 12, 1853. In the spring of 1838, Mr. Skidmore came to Union County and located in Liberty Township until 1850, when he settled in the western portion of York Township, near where he now resides. He has served as School Director; is a member of the Christian Church and the owner of 244 acres of land. 552 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. FRANKLIN W. SKIDMORE, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield, was born October 4, 1853, in Union County, Ohio. He is the son of William Skidmore (deceased) and Sarah R. Skidmore. In his youth he was trained to the pursuits of agriculture, in which he is now engaged. On April 22, 1873, he married Miss Lucinda Hatcher, who was born July 15,1853; she is a daughter of William Hatcher, deceased, and Margaret Hatcher. They have three children Myrtie M., born April 15, 1875; Jessie E., born January 1, 1877, and Lydia, born November 30, 1881. Politically, Mr. Skidmore is of Democratic principles, and is a member of the Disciple Church. As an agriculturist, he is meeting with marked success, and is of good standing in society. He resides in the southwestern portion of York Township. Sarah R. Skidmore, mother of our subject, was born in Logan County, Ohio, March 16, 1824, and is a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Rea, her father a native of Virginia and her mother of Pennsylvania; they came to Logan County at quite an early day. She was reared to womanhood in Logan County, and on March 3, 1842, she was united in marriage to Mr. Elisha G. Mechem, a son of John and Hannah Mechem, of Logan County. To them were born three children-Levi R., David O.. and one deceased. He departed this life March 20, 1848, and on July 6, 1851, she married Mr. William Skidmore, son of William and Mary Skidmore, by whom she has one son-our subject. Mrs. Skidmore is the owner of122 acres of land, and a member of the Disciple Church. DAVID M. SKIDMORE, farmer, P. O. Newton. The subject of this sketch was born April 21, 1853, in Logan County, Ohio. He is a Ron of Isaac and Sarah A. Skidmore, of Union County. From his youth to the present time he has devoted his attention to the honorable pursuits of agriculture. On August 23, 1873, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah A. Johnson, who was born December 12, 1849; she is a daughter of Matthew and Lucinda Johnson, of this county. To them have been born two children-Harry J., born April 9, 1875, and Clarence N., born September 20, 1878. Mr. Skidmore is the owner of fifty-nine and one-half acres of land, and resides in the southern part of York Township. CALVIN SKIDMORE, farmer, P. O. West Mansfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Union County, Ohio, September 15, 1841. His parents were William and Louisa Skidmore, who settled in York Township, near where our subject now resides, at quite an early day. He was here reared amid the varied scenes of pioneer life, and received but a rudimentary education. In February 1865, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Army of the Cumberland, and continued in the service until the following September. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary J. McGee, who was born April 28, 1844; she was a daughter of Josh and Delila McGee, of Logan County. To them have been born two children-Louisa D., born June 30, 1861, and Aaron W., born July 7, 1865. Mr. Skidmore is the owner of 100 acres of land in Union, and forty-five acres in Logan County. He has been successful in business; is a member of the Baptist Church, and resides in the extreme southwest portion of York Township. ELMORE C. SMITH, farmer and teacher, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born October 2, 1858, in Marion County, Ohio; his parents are William J. Smith, a native of Ross County, and Nancy M. Smith, a native of Richland County. Of a family of eight children, six are now living-Alfred M., George W., Elmore C., Hugh E., Jefferson L. and William M. His parents still reside in Marion County. Our subject from his youth has been reared on a farm and he received a good English education, and for perhaps four years has been engaged in teaching. On March 24, 1881, in Marion County, he married Miss Maria Jacoby; she was born February 23, 1869, and is a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Jacoby, of Marion County. Shortly after his marriage, he came to Union County and settled in the southeastern portion of York Township, where he now resides. Mr. Smith is a member of the Methodist Church, and the owner of 120 acres of land. ALBERT I. SMITH (deceased). James R. Smith, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Maryland in 1794; in 1834, he came to Union County, Ohio, and bought the farm now owned by S. Taylor, on Bokes Creek, near Summersville. For several years he followed farming, and for nine years served as one of the Associate Judges. He also served for two terms as Justice of the Peace in York Township, and subsequently for ten years he served as Probate Judge of Union County. During the latter years of his life, he made his home with his son-in-law, Dr. A. J. Richardson, where he died a few years since. His wife, Anne Smith, a lady loved by all who knew her, died many years prior to his death. Our subject was born in November 1845, in Union County, Ohio. In June 1863, he enlisted in the Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until February 1864, when he was honorably discharged. On July 4, 1868, he was united in marriage to Miss Helen M. Johnson, a daughter of John and Mary Johnson, early settlers of this county. To them were born three children-Lottie E., Charles R. and Albert J. Having been engaged in the mercantile business in Summersville prior to his marriage, he continued in the same until a short time prior to his decease. He was a loving father and husband and departed this life in July 1872, respected by all who knew him. His widow survived him and at present resides in Summersville. Her parents came from Harrison County, Ohio, to York Township, this county, in 1834, and they settled on the farm near Summersville, where he died. For forty years he was a minister of the Gospel in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He taught the first school in Summersville, in the winter of 1835-36, at $8 per month. For six years he YORK TOWNSHIP. - 553 served as Auditor of Union County, and was an honored member in society. He died in July 1873. SAMUEL G. SMITH, farmer, P. O. Broadway. Charles Smith, a soldier of the war of 1812, and father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Shenandoah County, Va., January 21, 1789. In his youth he learned the trade of tanner and currier, and, when a young man, went to Pennsylvania, where he married, probably in the year 1814, Sarah Godfrey, by whom he had ten children, three now living, viz.: Eliza, Charles W. (whose sketch appears in this work) and our subject, in 1826, he emigrated from Pennsylvania, with his family, to Harrison County, Ohio, where he remained until 1835, in which year he came to Union County and settled in Liberty Township, where he remained until his decease, October 18, 1859. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, for many years, class leader. Our subject was born November 3, 1818, in Pennsylvania, and, in 1826, with his parents, came to Harrison County, Ohio. On February 26, 1846, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth J. Herd, daughter of James and Margaret Herd, by whom he had four children, two of whom are now living-James W. and Philander H.; she died August 11, 1853. He then married Philarna Ford, by whom he has six children, five now living, viz. : Chauncey F., Clifford M., Sherman, Sarah A. and Nellie M. After having located in different portions of Union County, Mr. Smith finally, in 1876, settled in the southeastern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He is the owner of 100 acres of land. CHARLES W. SMITH, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born in Harrison County, Ohio, March 31, 1833, and in 1835, with his parents, Charles and Sarah Smith-of whom we have made mention in another portion of this work-he came to Union County, Ohio. He has from his youth devoted his attention to farming, and he received but a rudimentary education. On May 2, 1872, he married Miss Augusta, C. Hathaway, who was born October 1, 1842, in Logan County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Ebenezer C. and Almira Hathaway. To them have been born three children-Emily, Nannie H. and Charles H. In May 1864, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was stationed principally at Forts Ellsworth, Lyon and O'Rouke. He received an honorable discharge in September 1864. Mr. Smith has served as Trustee of York Township six years, and in 1870 was land appraiser of the same township. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the owner of 240 acres of land, and resides in the southern portion of York Township. The parents of Mrs. Smith are natives of Massachusetts, who, about the year 1833, came to Union County, Ohio, and located but a short time, when they moved to Logan County, where they now reside. WESLEY W. SOUTHARD, farmer, P.O. West Mansfield. Win. Southard, a soldier of the war of 1812, and grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in Virginia; came to Logan County, Ohio, at an early day. He married Elizabeth Lingrel, by whom he had eight children, six of whom are now living. After her death he married Phoeba Burwill, by whom he had three children, one of whom is still living. He died in Logan County in March, 1851, respected by all who knew him. Samuel Southard, a son of William, and father of our subject, was born in Champaign County, Ohio, February 20, 1814, and on November 24, 1839, in Logan County, he married Lydia Harriman, who was born in Pennsylvania November 5, 1821. To them have been born nine children, four of whom are yet living-Wesley W., Spain J., Sarah V. and Clara V. After their marriage they settled in the western portion of York Township, where our subject now resides, and where they remained until 1876 in which year they moved to West Mansfield, Logan County, where they now reside. He served as Trustee of York Township, and with his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Of late Mr. Southard has been in feeble health. Wesley W. Southard, subject of this sketch, was born in Union County, Ohio, July 19, 1841. On reaching his majority the war of the late rebellion was begun, and accordingly in August 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Army of the Cumberland, and participated in the battles of Perryville, Chickamauga, Resaca, Mission Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain, and the memorable siege of Atlanta, where, in August 1864, he received a wound which obliged him to remain in several different hospitals nearly a year. He was honorably discharged at Camp Dennison in May 1865. On March 11, 1876, he married Miss Louisa E. Elliott, who was born in Union County, April 7, 1853; she was a daughter of John and Elizabeth A. Elliott. The result of this union has been two children, viz. : Howe E., born June 26, 1877, and Florence E., born June 7, 1880. Mr. Southard is a member of the F. & A. M. society, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He has served as Trustee of York Township, and is the owner of 210 acres of land. LEONIDAS H. SOUTHARD, Secretary Union County Farmers' Insurance, Company, P. O. York, was born November 9, 1852, in Union County, Ohio; he is a son of Sylvester F. Southard (deceased) and Rebecca Southard. Having received a rudimentary education, in the fall of 1868 he entered Delaware University, where he continued his studies alternately for perhaps two years, and after leaving Delaware he taught school for a short time. In July 1874, he entered on a six-month course at the Miami Commercial College, in Dayton, Ohio, and on completing his course received a diploma. In the fall of 1875, he entered Hillsdale College, Michigan, and resumed his studies there until June of the following year. In the spring of 1877, in company 554 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. with J. S. Winters, he engaged in the mercantile business at Summersville, and continued in the same about six months, when he purchased a farm in the northern portion of York Township, on which he located until June 1881, at which Lime he came to York Center, where he now resides. He is at present officiating as Secretary of the Union County Farmers' Insurance Company, of which he was one of the incorporators. On February 14, 1878, he was united in marriage to Miss Hannah E. Penhorwood, daughter of John and Elizabeth Penhorwood, whose sketch appears in this work. They have one child, viz., Carleton. Mr. Southard is a self-made man, a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the owner of 103 acres of land. DAVID W. SPICER, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, September 13, 1822; his parents were Jonathan and Leuriah Spicer, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Muskingum County, Ohio, at an early day. Of their family of nine children there are now but three living, viz. David W., Jane and Adeline. Our subject was raised to manhood on a farm and received but a rudimentary education. On June 22, 1848, in Muskingum County, he was united in marriage to Miss Keziah Ross, daughter of Dr. Joseph Ross (now deceased). This union has been blessed with nine children, viz.: Jane E., Emily C., Joseph L., Franklin D., Henry V. D., Alexander J., Minnie D., William and Isabella C., the latter two of whom are deceased. About the year 1852, he came to Union County, and settled in the eastern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and the owner of a Productive farm of fifty acres. HENRY STALDER, farmer, P. O. York. Casper Stalder, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Switzerland, near the Alps Mountains, September 24, 1809, and in 1819, with his parents, Jacob and Anne Stabler, he emigrated to America, and came to Athens County, Ohio. On December 15, 1836, he married Mary Howard, who was born in May 1815, in New York State; she is a daughter of Elisha and Submitta Howard. To them have been born eight children, of whom seven are now living. In 1853, with his family he came to Union County, and settled in York Township. He is a member of the United Brethren Church, and the owner of ninety-five acres of land. Our subject was born October 25, 1837, in Athens County, Ohio. In 1853, with his parents he came to York Township, this county, and in May 1858, he married Eliza J. Storms, daughter of Gregory and Melinda Storms, of whom we have made mention in this work. They have three children-Willard C., Charles F. and Josie B. In 1865, he settled where he now resides, in the southern portion of York Township. In June 1861, he enlisted in the Thirteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Army of the Cumberland, and participated at Shiloh, Murfreesboro, the siege of Corinth and Chickamauga, where, in September 1863, he was taken prisoner by the Confederates, and for nearly one year was confined in Libby and other prisons, but was finally released. In October 1864, he was honorably discharged. He is the owner of 260 acres of land, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. PETER STALEY, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born April 5, 1825, in Greene County, Ohio; he was a son of Daniel Staley, a native of Maryland, and Catherine Staley, a, native of Pennsylvania. When eight years of age, with his mother and step-father, Samuel Staley, his father having died when he was four years old, he came to Marysville, this county. On November 30, 1850, he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Turner, who was born March 20, 1829, and a daughter of Aquilla and Frances Turner, of Clark County, Ohio. To them have been born five children - Aquilla a T., born October 18, 1860 ; Luther, born June 27, 1863; Alexander B., born June 12, 1865; Katie J., born May 16, 1867, and one that died in infancy. After living in different portions of York Township, he, finally, in the spring of 1881, with his family, settled a short distance south of Summersville near Bokes Creek. He is a member of the Baptist Church and of the F. & A. M, society, and the owner of 120 acres of land in a good state of cultivation. JOHN STAMATS, farmer, P. O. Richwood. The subject of this sketch, a pioneer of York Township, was born August 17, 1803, in Westmoreland County, Penn. His parents were George Stamats (whose father was a Revolutionary soldier) and Ruth Stamats, with whom, in 1815, he emigrated to Muskingum County, Ohio. Of a family of nine children, four still survive-John George, Elizabeth and Leah. They remained in Muskingum County Until their decease, he in September 1857, and she in April 1846. Our subject was reared on a farm, and for three years worked on the Ohio Canal. On April 29, 1830, in Fairfield County, he married Miss Allis Coons, daughter of George and Keziah Coons. This union has been blessed with eight children five of whom are now living. For one year after his marriage, Mr. Stamatz located in Fairfield County. In 1831, he came to Union County and settled in the northeastern portion of York Township, where he now resides. He has served as Trustee of York Township, and is the owner of 100 acres of land. MALCHUS F. STAMATS, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek, was born April 22, 1836, in Union County, Ohio. After having obtained a good common school education, he attended for several terms, Hillsdale College, Michigan, and subsequently, for several terms, taught school in York and Taylor Townships, this county. On May 7, 1863, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Southard, who was born July 31, 1840; she is a daughter of Sylvester F. Southard (deceased) and Rebecca Southard, his wife. To them have been born four children, viz. : Dora, a teacher, born YORK TOWNSHIP. - 555 July 21, 1866 John O., born May 26, 1868; Sattie E., born October 27, 1871, and Azona, born July 3, 1874. Mr. Stamats is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church ; he owns ninety-two sad one-half acres of land, and resides in the eastern portion of York Township. MATTHEW E. STAMATS, farmer, P. O. Richwood. The subject of this sketch was born in Union County, Ohio, April 22, 1836. He is a son of John and Allie Stamats, whose sketch appears in this work. He was reared on a farm and received a fair English education. In October 1861, he enlisted in Company K, First Ohio Cavalry, and was attached to the Army of the Cumberland. He participated in the battles of Corinth, Perryville, Stone River, Chickamauga, Farmington, the siege of Atlanta, and numerous other engagements, and was honorably discharged in October 1864. On April 3, 1879, he married Miss Mary M. Price, who was born May 5, 1848; she was a daughter of Thomas R. and Mary J. Price, who came to Union County about the year 1836. Mr. Stomata is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, and Grand Army of the Republic, and the owner of fifty acres of land. CYRUS STAMATS, farmer, P. O. Bokes Creek. The subject of this sketch was born in Union County, Ohio, December 6, 1842; he is a brother of Matthew E. and Malchus F. Stomata, and a son of John Stamats, all of whom have biographies in this work. In October, 1862, he was enrolled in the First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was attached to the Army of the Cumberland. He was engaged in the battles of Chickamauga, Resaca, Mission Ridge, Kenesaw, Mountain, siege of Atlanta, and numerous other engagements. He endured many hardships while in the service, but has enrolled his name with the many thousands who so bravely defended the Federal flag, which was about to be trampled under the iron heel of a most formidable enemy. He was honorably discharged in July 1864. In January 1873, he married Miss Margaret Fish, who was born January 2, 1850, in Union County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Cornelius E. and Elizabeth Fish, of Claibourne Township, this county. They have two children-Carrie, born February 8, 1874, and May, born October 3, 1875. Mr. Stamats is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and the owner of 126 acres of land. DAVID STERLING (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born in Ireland April 15, 1810; he was a son of John and Mary (Patterson) Sterling. When a youth, with his parents, he emigrated to America, and came to Pennsylvania, where they remained a short time. From Pennsylvania they came to Harrison County, Ohio, where they remained until his father's decease, about 1858; his mother died in September, 1862, in Union County. Our subject was reared principally on a farm and received a good common school education. He married, in Harrison County, Miss Mary Cox, who was born August 22, 1812. To them were born four children-Mary J., born May 25, 1833; John H., born November 18, 1834; A. J., born October 12, 1836, and Rebecca M., born May 26, 1841. In 1837, Mr. Sterling came to Union County and settled in the northern portion of York Township, where his son, John H., now resides. He settled in what was then termed the woods," in the clearing of which he endured many hardships and privations. He had served as Trustee of York Township and as Justice of the Peace. He departed this life February 18, 1874, respected by all who knew him. His widow survived him until June 17, 1882. John H. Sterling, their son, at present has possession of the homestead. JUDSON STORMS, farmer, P. O, York. The subject of this sketch was born in Orleans County, N. Y., March 30, 1823, and in 1833, with his parents, Gregory and Melinda Storms, came to York Township, Union County, Ohio, and settled near the waters of Bokes Creek. His parents remained in York Township until their decease. Of their family of ten children, four are now living, viz.: William H., Elizabeth, Eliza and Judson. On May 17, 1847, the latter was united in marriage with Rebecca Davis, now deceased, a daughter of David and Keziah Davis, of whom we had made mention in this work. To them were born one child, viz.: Oliver C., who was born December 22, 1851, and on September 26, 1880, married Miss Ruth Stalder, daughter of Casper and Mary Stalder, and with her resides in York Township, near the home of our subject. Mr. Storms also, was a soldier in the late war of the rebellion for a short time, thereby adding his name to the roll of honor which will perpetuate his memory for generations to come. He is a member of the United Brethren Church, and the owner of ninety-five acres of land. With his second wife, in a comfortable home, he resides near the central portion of York Township. ALEXANDER TALLMAN, farmer, P. O. York, was born in June 1833, in Logan County, Ohio, and is a son of Benjamin and Ruth Tallman, natives of New Jersey, who came to Champaign County, Ohio, about 1822. They, however, remained in Champaign County but a short time, when they moved to Logan County, where they remained until their decease. Of a family of ten children, nine are now living, viz.: Thomas W. Francis, William, Ruth A., Mary J., Alexander, Benjamin B., George W. and Sarah. On April 22, 1855, our subject married Lydia Bailey; she was born June 12, 1834, in Guernsey County, Ohio, and is a daughter of William B. Bailey, a native of Virginia, and Mary Bailey, a native of New Jersey. To them have been born two child ren-Adelaide and Mary M. In the fall of 1868, he came to Union County, and resided in Washington Township until November 1881, at which time he settled in the northern portion of York Township, where he now resides. Mr. Tallman is a self-made man, anti the owner of fifty acres of land. 556 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. JOHN E. TOBEY, farmer, P. O. York. William Tobey, father of the subject of this sketch, was born March 8, 1805, in Saratoga County, N. Y.; his parents were Heman and Hannah Tobey. Heman having lost his first wife, married Martha Wilkins, with whom and other members of his family he emigrated to Union County, Ohio, about the year 1832, and settled in York Township, near the waters of Bokes Creek, where he remained until his decease. William Tobey was united in marriage May 10, 1827, to Miss Ada A. Brooks, who was born February 12, 1810, in Ontario County, N. Y.; she was a daughter of Nathaniel and Margaret Brooks, who came to York Township, Union County, about the year 1833. In the fall of 1832, he came to Union County, his parents having arrived in the spring of the same year. He settled in York Township, near York Center, where he remained until about 1855, when he located for nine years on the farm at present occupied by Daniel M. Russel. In the spring of 1864, he removed to Mount Victory, Hardin County, where he resided until the winter of 1881, at which time he returned to York Township, where he now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Tobey are the parents of nine children, of whom two are now living, viz.: Our subject and Henry A. Mr. Tobey was elected first Treasurer of York Township, and has also served as Trustee, Clerk and Justice of the Peace. Of late years he has been afflicted with paralysis, and at present is in rather feeble health. The subject of this sketch was born May 18, 1837, in Union County, Ohio; he is one of York Township's successful farmers. On March 31, 1858, he was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Harris, who was born April 20, 1837; she is a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Harris of whom we have made mention in this work. To them have been born six children-Myron O., Jennie M., Eddie J., William S., Archibald B. and Ado, E., the latter three of whom are deceased. Mr. Tobey is a member of the United Brethren Church, and is the owner of 100 acres of land. JOHN TRIMBLE, farmer, P. O. York. The subject of this sketch was born February 27, 1880, in Jefferson County, Ohio. He is a son of Robert and Sarah Trimble, natives of Virginia, who emigrated to Jefferson County, Ohio, at an early day. They were the parents of seven children, of whom four are now living, viz.: Lucy, John, Rebecca and Sarah J. When a boy, with his parents, our subject moved from Jefferson to Harrison County, where, on March 22, 1851, he married Miss Margaret Sterling, daughter of John and Mary Sterling, of Harrison County. To them have been born five children, viz.: James S., Mary J. (deceased), Robert W., Rebecca E. and Rosilla N. In the autumn of 1853, Mr. Trimble came to Union County, and settled near the central portion of York Township, where he at present resides. In connection with his farming, he is also engaged in the manufacture of tile, for drainage purposes. In the spring of 1879, he was elected Treasurer of York Township, in which capacity he still officiates. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and class leader in the church, and the owner of eighty-five acres of land. HIRAM WATTS, farmer, P. O. York, was born December 28, 1822, in Franklin County, Ohio. His parents were John and Sarah Watts, natives of New York State, who settled in Franklin County, Ohio, at an early day, They had eight children, of whom five are now living, viz.: Hiram, William, John, Maria and Nicholas. On December 22,1843, in Franklin County, Hiram was united in marriage to Sarah J. Goldsmith, who was born January 15, 1823, in Franklin County. She is a daughter of Thomas Goldsmith a native of Virginia, and Elizabeth Goldsmith. a native of Pennsylvania. The fruits of this union are six children-Horace W., John J., Charles D., William J., Carrie A. and Emma R (deceased). Mr. Watts resided in Franklin County until 1865, in which year, with his family, he came to this county, and settled in York Township, near York Center, where he now resides. He has served as Trustee in York Township, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the owner of 135 acres of land. CHARLES E. WILKINS, farmer, P. O. Richwood. Beriah P. Wilkins, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., May 26, 1792. fie was a son of James Wilkins, a valiant soldier of the Revolutionary war, and Elsie Wilkins. Having reached the years of manhood, he married, on December 24, 1814, in New York State, Miss Amanda Rhodes, She was born October 19, 1797, and was a daughter of Capt. James Rhodes. By this union there was an issue of three children-Charles E., Joseph R. and Alfred F. (deceased). In 1836, he came to Union County, Ohio, and bought 210 acres of land in York Township, our subject's farm being part of the original purchase. In 1837, with his family, he settled in his new home in what was then comparatively a forest. He endured the usual hardships and privations connected with pioneer life, and remained where he settled until his decease, in October 1858. He had served as Trustee of York Township, and was respected by all who knew him. His wife departed this life in August 1877. Our subject was born March 6, 1822, in New York State, and when fifteen years of age, with his parents, came to Union County, Ohio. On May 18, 1847, he married Miss Martha M. Raymond, who was torn July 26, 1826, in Saratoga County, N. Y. Her father, Nathan Raymond, was born in 1779, in Connecticut; his father, Nathan, was a Revolutionary soldier. When a boy, with his parents, he removed to Saratoga County, N. Y., where he married Martha Chard, by whom he had seven children, two of whom are now living, viz.: Martha M. and Ambrose. In 1839, he came to Union County, Ohio, where he remained until his decease, November 7, 1847; his wife died September 4, of the same year. Mr. and Mrs. Wilkins are the parents of seven children-Edwin R., Amanda C., John F., Mary E., Hattie M., CLAIBOURNE TOWNSHIP. - 557 Allis K. and Minerva J. (deceased). Mr. Wilkins has served as Trustee and Clerk of York Township. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and the owner of seventy-seven acres of land. LEVEN WRIGHT (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born April 22, 1809, in Maryland, and when nine years of age, with his parents, James and Hannah Wright, he came to Fairfield County, Ohio, where his parents remained until their decease. About the year 1834. with his sister Rebecca, he came to Union County, and settled in the northern portion of York Township, where he remained until his decease. In 1837, he married Letitia Coons, daughter of George and Keziah Coons. By this union there was an issue of three children, two of whom are now living, viz,: Rebecca and James. slue died in March, 1844, and in August, 1844, he married Miss Sarah Thornton, who was born March 22, 1821 She was a daughter of Jesse and Nancy Thornton, of Union County, the former a native of North Carolina, and the latter of Virginia. This union has been blessed with seven children, three of whom are now living-Oscar, Mahlon and Mary. After spending a life of usefulness, he died November 27,1873. He was a kind and loving father and an indulgent husband, respected by the large circle of friends that knew him. For many years he served as Trustee of York Township; was a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and left to his widow, who still resides on the homestead, 166 acres of land. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE)