Allen County, Ohio - Chapter 21: Conclusion, 1906 (part 2 of 4)

LIAS CRITES, one of the esteemed citizens and substantial residents of German township, where he owns a finely improved farm' of 228 acres located in sections 7 and 8, was born June 21, 1825, in Salt Creek township, Pickaway County, Ohio, and is a son of John D. and Catherine (Peters) Crites.

John D. Crites was torn in Linn township, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, and moved from there to Berks County, Pennsylvania, where he married Catherine Peters and later moved to Salt Creek township, Pickaway County, Ohio, where both died in the course of time. They reared a family of 13 children, 10 of these reaching maturity, our venerable subject being the only survivor. John Crites and wife were consistent members of the German

Elias Crites was reared on his father's farm and attended the district schools. His mother died when he was 17 years of age and he left home and learned the carpenter and cabinetmaking trade at which he worked for some eight years. He then engaged in farming in Pickaway County, Ohio, until 1871, when he came to Allen County and bought 228 acres of land just north of Elida. This land he has placed under a fine state of cultivation and he has improved it with substantial houses and barns. He served eight years as trustee of Salt Creek township and for eight years was a trustee of German township.

On June 18, 1851, Mr. Crites was married to Catherine Mowery, who was a daughter of John Mowery. She d(ed May 3, 1862, leaving three children - John D. and W. W., who operate the home farm ; and Mary Selena, now deceased, who was the wife of Alvin Davis, of Elida. On October 5, 1862, Mr. Crites was married to a sister of his first wife, Mrs. Leannah (Mowery) Reichelderfer. Mrs. Crites by her first marriage had one son - George S. Reichelderfer, a resident of Pickaway County, engaged in the banking business at Laurelville, Ohio; and one daughter, Sarah Jane, deceased, who was the wife of Hon. S. D. Crites, of Elida. Elias Crites i6 a member of the German Reformed Church, while his wife is a Lutheran.

AURENS HULL, vice-president and general manager of the Laurens Hull Lumber Company, of Lima, was torn in New York in 1861, and is a son of the late Hon. M. A. Hull. _

The father of Laurens Hull was engaged in the manufacture of woolen fabrics at Pike, New York, for a number of years and was a very prominent citizen of Wyoming County. He served two terms in the New York Assembly, and for 13 years was deputy inspector of customs at Suspension Bridge, New York, his service extending through two years of Presb dent Cleveland's first administration ; he was relieved of the position at his own request. After a liberal education which was secured in his native State, Laurens Hull began business in connection with the Sioux City Lumber Company, at Sioux City, Iowa, from which concern he went with the Aurora Lumber Company, at Aurora, Illinois. Since then he has been connected with a number of lumbering interests at different points, having made the lumber trade his life work.' In 1901 he came to Lima, where he bought out the T. W. Dobbins Lumber Company, which was one of the oldest lumber companies in this city, and for two years he conducted the business under the firm name of Laurens Hull & Company. At the time the business was incorporated its present name - Laurens Hull Lumber Company - was adopted. The company is capitalized at $150,- 000, with Gilbert B. Shaw of Chicago, as president, and Laurens Hull, vice-president and general manager. Their yards are located at Lima, Tiffin, Ohio; and Chicago. The business is one of far reaching possibilities and is in a very prosperous condition. It deals extensively, both wholesale and retail, in lumber and building material. The members of the company are all capitalists and men of business experience who command the confidence of the trade and of the public.

Mr. Hull was married in 1891 to Anna Howe, who is a daughter of J. VV. Howe, a retired locomotive engineer, formerly of Sioux City, Iowa, but who is passing the evening of life with Mr. Hull and wife. Mr. Hull belongs to several of the exclusive social organizations of this section, including the Shawnee Country Club and the Lima Club.

SjAMUEL W. WRIGHT, county com- ! missioner of Allen County, was born ! in 1851 in Clinton County, Ohio, and is a son of W. G. and Louisa (Manker) Wright.

The father of Mr. Wright was born in Virginia and the mother in Ohio. The father came to Allen County in 1855 when pioneer conditions still prevailed. His life was spent here following agricultural pursuits.

the Delphos High School. He then taught school for some nine years, mainly in Allen and Putnam counties. Subsequently he settled on his present fine farm of 160 acres, which is situated in sections 29 and 32, Marion township, on the Delphos and Lima road, where he has made his home since 1889. He makes a specialty of raising thoroughbred Polled Durham and Short-horn cattle and Percheron horses, exhibiting at the various fairs and carrying off many of the ribbons.

Mr. Wright has long been considered one of the substantial men of Marion township and is about completing his first term as county commissioner; he was elected in November, 1905, for a second term.

Fraternally Mr. Wright is a member of Hope Lodge, No. 214, F. & A. M., of Delphos, and also belongs to the Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias.

RANK P. RUSHER, of the Frank P. Rusher Lumber Company, of Lima, is one of the city's active business men. He was born in Hardin County, Ohio, January 1, 1858, and is a son of George Rusher, who was a native of Germany and later became a successful farmer in Hardin County, where he died in 1894.

After completing the work in the common schools, Frank P. Rusher at the age of 17 entered the employ of his uncle, Nicholas High. He remained with him three years, working his way up from the bottom to a good position. He then took a course in the Ohio Normal University at Ada, which included civil engineering, sciences and the classics. After this he taught for a time in Hardin and Putnam counties. He was then elected superintendent of the Leipsic schools ; but the arduous work and close confinement affected his health, and after one year, during which he established a reputation for great ability, he resigned this position. He then accepted the position of deputy postmaster at Ada, Ohio, but impaired health made it necessary for him to resign this position also after one year and to accept a position offered him by the Ada Lumber Company. He remained with that corporation for about two years. Later he managed a lumber yard at another point in Ohio, resigning his position there in order to come to Lima to associate himself in the retail lumber business with John Rossfeld. They established the firm of Rusher & Rossfeld. After two years G. V. Guyton was admitted to partnership and the firm name became the Rusher-Rossfelcl Lumber Company, which continued until it was succeeded by the F. P. Rusher Lumber Company, wholesale and retail dealers in lumber, lath, shingles, etc. This company was incorporated with a capital stock of $15,000, with F. C. Jocelyn, of Chicago, president, and F. P. Rusher as manager. The business is on a sound basis and is one of Lima's large and flourishing industries.

Mr. Rusher was married October 28, 1886, to Ida Shuster, who is a daughter of Daniel Shuster, deceased, who was a farmer and mechanic of Hardin County. They have three children: Paul W., Ross W. and Virgil. Mr. Rusher takes a good citizen's interest in politics and devotes attention to the forwarding of the various enterprises calculated to build up the city.

OBERT J. PLATE, secretary and treasurer of The Deisel-Wemmer Company, extensive cigar manufacturers, with headquarters and plant located at Lima, is not only prominently identified with this immense business enterprise, but is interested in other Lima concerns of magitude. Mr. Plate was born in 1868 at Miamisburg, Montgomery County, Ohio, and is a son of T. F. and Hannah (Karr) Plate.

The father of Mr. Plate was also a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, but his mother came from New Jersey. They have been residents of Lima for some four years.

In the year 1886 Robert J. Plate came to Lima and lived with his uncle, Henry C. Heckerman, who conducted a confectionery business. The young man assisted his uncle for several years and during this time he took a commercial course in the Lima Business College, attending the night sessions. Graduating from this institution, he accepted a position in the office of J. A. Chapin, architect, and from there he went into local railroad offices. In all the positions he filled he gained the approbation of his employers and in this way attracted the attention of the then Deisel-Wemmer Company, whose members have been noted, in building up their great business, for surrounding themselves with a most capable and reliable force of assistants. In 1892, when the company required the services of a competent bookkeeper, the offer was made to Mr. Plate and was accepted. Shortly afterward he came into a still closer business relations, taking over the credit department also, and in 1902, when the business was incorporated, he was elected secretary and treasurer of the corporation, his brother, C. B. Plate, succeeding to the position of head bookkeeper.

Mr. Plate was married in December, 1902, to Berenice M. Willaman, who is a daughter of Lee J. Willaman. Mrs. Plate is an accomplished lady, formerly a teacher in the Lima public schools.

For a number of years Mr. Plate has been actively identified with the work of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church and for three years was superintendent of the Sunday-school. He has long been deeply interested in the work of the Young Men's Christian Association and has been a member of its working force, serving eight years as treasurer, two years as chairman of the finance committee and is still an active member of its directing board. Mr. Plate is a member of the Lima Business Men's Progressive Association and is very loyal to Lima and her interests.

0H. WAIiMHOFF, one of the wellknown citizens and the oldest druggist at Delphos, was born March 11, 1851, at Buffalo, New York, and is a son of Y. Stephen and Frederika (Reuter) Wahmhoff.

in Hanover, Germany, and the mother in Prussia. They came to America prior to marriage and were united in Erie County, New York. There the father served an apprenticeship to the boiler-making trade and learned draughting, and for many years subsequently was a master mechanic in the employ of the Erie Central Railroad. He lost his life on the road, through accident, on December 9, 1858. His widow, three sons and two daughters survived him. In 1861 Mrs. Wahmhoff and her family moved to Van Wert County, Ohio, where they owned farming land about two miles from Delphos. Here she resided four years and then removed to Delphos.

John H. Wahmhoff, was the eldest of his parents' children and he accompanied his widowed mother in her removals and always carefully looked to her comfort. He attended the parochial schools in Buffalo and the country schools in Van Wert County and after locating at Delphos, he attended night school. When 15 years old he entered upon an apprenticeship to the drug business with Hunt & Walsh, and continued with the firm after the retirement of Mr. Walsh. He then became manager for Mr. Hunt, continuing as such until 1878, when Mr. Hunt retired, Mr. Wahmhoff purchasing the business. For 40 consecutive years he has continued in the drug business and is the oldest in this line here.

Mr. Wahmhoff is one of the city's prominent and useful men, and he has always shown the public spirit and enterprise needed in citizens to bring about general prosperity. In 1872 he became a member of the volunteer fire department with which he continued for 18 years, filling every office from private to chief, and holding the latter office some years. In 1885 he was elected to the Delphos City Council from the Second Ward and in 1888 he was re-elected, serving until 1890. In 1894 he was again returned to the Council. During his administration and mainly through his efforts the city secured many improvements and the placing of a number of its utilities. For three years he served with the Board of Health and the Board of Education. Since 1880 he has been a member of the Ohio State Pharmaceutical Association. He was one of the five pharmacists who drafted the old Ohio State pharmacy laws. He is also connected with the pharmaceutical associations of the United States and of Canada.

In 1881 Mr. Wahmhoff was married to Christina C. Eich, a native of Indiana. They have six children : Elizabeth, Henrietta, Agnes, John, Anna and Celestine. The family belongs to St. John's Catholic Church.

For years our subject has been a contributor to various literary publications and might almost be called the historian of Delphos. He is a very prominent member of the Delphos branch of the Catholic Knights of America, a society organized for beneficial, educational and social purposes. He has been a delegate to its supreme council and State president. Its finely equipped hall in Delphos is located in the Wahmhoff Building on North Main street. Here our subject has delivered many lectures on live topics and has read many papers of more than passing interest. His ideas are clear and decided, whether in address or debate, and he has given a great impetus to the interests in literature and discussion in this society. He has liberally contributed to fitting up its club-room, making it an inviting place in which young men may pass their evenings.

ILLIAM S. EAST, president and manager of The East Iron & Machine Company, of Lima, is a man who possesses mechanical aptitude of a high order and is one of the leading manufacturers of the city. He was born at Lima, December 25, 1866, and is a son of Abraham East.

Isaac East, the grandfather of William S. East, was one of the pioneers of this section in the flouring-mill business and in this industry was succeeded by his son Abraham. The latter continued in this business at Lima for a number of years.

William S. East completed the common and high school courses at Lima and then learned the trade of machinist, at which he worked for 12 years in shops where his ability was thor-

The East Iron & Machine Company was founded a number of years ago and the plant has been established at its present location for the past two and a half years. The officers of the company are : William S. East, president and manager; J. L. Sampson, secretary and treasurer, and A. D. Neuman, vice-president. The company is capitalized at $100,000. The business is the manufacturing of all classes of structural iron work, a leading feature being steel bridge work. Their trade covers Ohio and a large portion of the territory in adjacent States, particularly Pennsylvania. It is ranked with the large and important industries of Lima.

H. EAST, secretary and treasurer of The Lima Trust Company, is one of Lima's prominent men. He was born March 21, 1869, near Lima, and was educated in the public schools of this city.

Mr. East's ealier business associations were with railroad work, for four years being connected with the freight department of the Pennsylvania Railroad. On July 16, 1889, he accepted a position as bookkeeper in The Ohio National Bank and on January 1, 1895, he became assistant cashier. He continued in this position until March, 1903, when he resigned in order to accept that of secretary and treasurer of The Lima Trust Company. He had other important business interests, having organized and founded, in association with his brother, William S, East, The East Iron & Machine Company, one of the leading industries of Lima.

The Lima Trust Company was organized and incorporated in February, 1903, with a capital stock of $200,000, fully paid up, and they began business with these officers : Davis J. Cable, president; J. D. S. Neely, 1st vicepresident; J. Oscar Hover, 2nd vice-president; and C. H. East, secretary and treaurer. Subsequently J. D. S. Neely was made president and E. R. Curtin, 1st vice-president. A general banking business is carried on, also a savings department ; they hold the largest deposits of any financial institution in the city.

A. BURKHARDT, joint agent of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton and the Lake Erie & Western railroads, at Lima, was born in Shawnee township, Allen County, Ohio, December 31, 1872, and is a son of George and Mary ( Bowsher ) Burkhardt.

George Burkhardt came to Allen Countyin 1865 and has since been identified with the agricultural interests and public affairs of Shawnee township. He married Mary Bowsher, a member of one of the old and prominent families of the State. She is a daughter of Benjamin Bowsher, who came from Pickaway County to Allen County in 1836. His father, William Bowsher, was a soldier in the War of 1812, coming to Ohio from Pennsylvania, in 1804. The father of William Bowsher was Daniel Bowsher, who lived in Berks County, Pennsylvania, in 1755, and was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. The family has been very conspicuous in Allen County in political, business and social life. For the past 10 years our subject has been engaged in tracing its ancestral branches and this work, when completed, will possess interest for the family and make a valuable addition to local history.

F. A. Burkhardt has been a resident of Lima since he was 20 years old. He was afforded excellent educational advantages and attended the Ohio Normal University at Ada and Lima College, and then taught school for two years in Allen County. He was then made assistant agent for the Cincinnati. Hamilton & Dayton Railway, at Lima, in 1896. and on January 1, 1900, became agent for the Lake Erie & Western Railroad; on June 16, 1901, he was made joint agent of both roads. This position of importance he has filled ever since. Its du-

On June 16, 1896, Mr. Burkhardt was married to Nannie Dearth, a daughter of Samuel Dearth, a prominent farmer of Warren County, Ohio. They have two children, E. Lucile and Lorene. The family belongs to the English Lutheran Church, in which Mr. Burkhardt is a member of the board of trustees. Mrs. Burkhardt is a graduate of the National Normal College, at Lebanon, Ohio. For some time prior to her marriage, she was a successful teacher in the public schools of Lima.

Mr. Burkhardt for eight years was a member of the board of trustee of Lima College. He is a member of the board of directors of the Lima Young Men's Christian Association. He is treasurer of The Brunswick Bowling Company, at Lima and is also secretary of the organization known as the Ohio Checker, Association.

OHN B. MORRIS, township trustee, well-known citizen and substantial farmer of Sugar Creek township, resides on his well-improved farm of 80 acres, located in section 23, following farming and stock-raising. Mr. Morris was born in Oneida County, New York, five miles north of Utica, February 16, 1848, and is a son of Edward and Sarah (Breese) Morris.

Edward Morris was born in 1818 in North Wales and came to the United States in 1838 immediately following his marriage. He lived a short time in Licking County, Ohio, and then moved to Oneida County, New York, but in September, 1854. came to Sugar Creek township, Allen County, Ohio, and lived the remainder of his life on the farm now owned by our subject. Here he died in March, 1901, a man respected by all who knew him. He was for a number of years one of the leading members of the Welsh Congregational Church at Gomer. He married Sarah Breese, who was born in North Wales in 1820, and who died on the Sugar Creek township farm in 1872. They reared a large family, our subject being the fifth in order of birth. The family record is as follows: Jane, who died in infancy; Thomas

N. ; Jane (Ruggles), deceased; Elizabeth (Well); Sarah (Rockey) ; Mary (Jones), of Vaughnsville, Ohio; Anna (Buskirk), of Beaver Dam; Harriet (Garner), of Cairo; George W., who died in childhood; and William, who died aged 32 years.

John B. Morris accompanied his parents from New York to Allen County, the trip being made by way of Buffalo to Toledo, on Lake Erie, and then by canal to Delphos. He remained on the farm assisting his father until his marriage, having also learned the carpenter's trade while working on the farm. After his marriage he rented land for about seven years and then went to Cairo, where he embarked in a mercantile business with Robert Davies, under the firm name of Davies & Morris, which continued about four years. After selling his interest he went to Knoxville, Tennessee, and during the following 1 1 years worked at farming and at his trade. He then returned to Allen County and rented the homestead of his father and at the latter's death purchased it. It is a valuable piece of property and Mr. Morris carries on large agricultural operations here, giving the greater part of his attention to the raising of corn and hogs.

Mr. Morris was married first to Clara J. Ridenour, a native of Sugar Creek township, who was a daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Risen) Ridenour, natives of Germany. They had four children, namely: Sarah Lilian, who died aged 16 years; Roy B., of Monroe township, who is married and has one child - Walter Lloyd; Oscar B., who lives at home; and John, who with his mother, died in Tennessee. Mr. Morris was married, second, at Knoxville, Tennessee, to Scerena Kirby, who was born within nine miles of Knoxville, and who is a daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Harris) Kirby.

Mr. Morris has been a Democrat all his life and has been an active member of his party in Sugar Creek township. As one of the substantial, representative men, he has been frequently elected to office. He has served two years as supervisor and is now serving as one of the township trustees. He is a member of the Odd Fellows, belonging to Lodge No. 464, of Columbus Grove.

Samuel Davison French

AMUEL DAVISON FRENCH, whose portrait appears on the opposite page, is one of the prosperous and influential farmers of Allen County. He has been an honored and esteemed resident of Perry township for upwards of 70 years, having spent almost his entire life upon the 160-acre farm which is still his home. He was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, July 10, 1823, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Davison) French, and grandson of Alexander French. The last named was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, and was a soldier in the Revolution before he located in Trumbull County, Ohio. On October 5, 1784, he was married to Elizabeth Morrison ; a family of five daughters and one son were reared, namely: Margaret (Mrs. John Hannah); William; Ann (Mrs. Robert Russell); Jane (Mrs. John Sheefleton) ; Betsey (Mrs. John Davison); and Sally (Mrs. William Moore). The maternal grandparents of our subject were Benjamin and Ann (Buchanan) Davison. Benjamin Davison, who was from Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, came to Ohio and located in Trumbull County May 7, 1800, before Ohio became a State, being then the best known portion of the Northwest Territory. Very few white men had ventured into the new country at that time as it took more than an average amount of pluck to invade the country of the Indians. Benjamin Davison spent the last years -of his life in Newton Falls.

William French was bom in Washington Pennsylvania, March 15, 1787. In 1834 he located in Allen County, Ohio, where he purchased 160 acres of land. Of this land '80 acres lay in Bath township, where he made Fis home and the other 80 was situated just across the road in Perry township and upon it is located the buildings of his son, our subject. On August 11, 1819, he was married to Elizabeth Davison and a family of eight children were born to them, as follows: Ann, wife of John Rankin; Elizabeth, unmarried; Samuel Davison; David; John; Mary Jane; George; and Newton. Our subject and his brother 'George, who lives in Bath township, are the only survivors. William French had always been a Democrat until the first nomination of

William H. Harrison for the presidency, when he decided to give his support to the hero of Tippecanoe in preference to Martin VanBuren, but died in 1836 before the election at the age of 49 years.

Samuel Davison French came to Allen County with his parents when he was 1 1 years of age. It was a memorable journey, contrasting strongly with the present-day travel by electric car over the same land, which is crisscrossed by electric and telephone wires and dotted with every indication of prosperous civilization. The little company of emigrants who started with their ox teams to traverse the long miles which lay between Trumbull and Allen counties numbered 22 people, only three of whom - our subject, his brother George and Hank Agate - are living. It took 13F2 days to complete the journey. When they reached Marion County, on the Hardin County line, their provisions were exhausted and they were obliged to remain there three days, unsheltered by a roof while the women of the party were busily engaged in cooking enough to sustain them on the remainder of the trip. The trail was followed with great difficulty as the forest was so dense it was almost impossible to penetrate its labyrinths and it was necessary to proceed with caution. They camped one night at Hog Creek marsh, where the wolves were so numerous it. was found necessary to watch the sheep the entire night to keep them from being killed. The Indian was still a menace to the white man and one of the relics which Mr. French prizes as a reminder of those days is a cane made from a log which formed a part of the historic old Council House of the Shawnee's in Shawnee township, the old structure having long since given way to the Allen County Children's Home.

Mr. French was married April 23, 1847, t0 Margaret T. Roberts, daughter of William and Hannah (Morrison) Roberts, and an aunt of Thomas C. Roberts, whose biography will be found in this volume. They have four children, namely: Lois A., who died at the age of one year; William, who was killed while taking a team of mules to water; Elizabeth, who is unmarried and is housekeeper for her parents; and Leola, the wife of Jesse Growdon and the

When Mr. French first came to this farm, there was a small clearing and a cabin on the 8o-acre tract in Bath township. Shortly after his marriage, he built a cabin on the 80 in Perry township and continued to live in it until 1861 when his present residence was built. He has put all the improvements on this land and has done all the clearing except the first 20 acres. When he took possession, the land was covered with a heavy forest and it required much hard work to convert it into his present well-cultivated acres. In addition to general farming, Mr. French is also engaged in stockraising, but has lately left the active management of the work to his son-in-law. He is a genial, generous, kindly gentleman who is venerated.and loved by all. He has been identified with the Republican party since its organization and before that was a Whig. He has never sought nor desired public office.

ARRY H. ADKINS, oil operator and well-known business man at Lima, was born August 21, 1865, in Pickaway County, Ohio, and is a son of Barzillai Adkins, now a resident of Circleville, Pickaway County, who has long been one of the leading men of the county, prominent in political and business life, and who has served two terms in the State Legislature.

Completing his schooling in boyhood, Mr. Adkins began to teach when about 16 years of age and continued in the profession for eight consecutive years. He then became commercial traveler for the American Furniture Company, and in this capacity traveled all through the West, visiting Colorado, Kansas and Missouri in the interest of his house. In 1900 Mr. Adkins came to Lima, attracted by the business opportunities offered in the oil business. In association with his brother he became an operator and producer and is still engaged extensively in operations in the Trenton rock fields of Ohio and Indiana and also, to a smaller extent, in Western oil fields. His success has been such as to place him among the prominent oil men of the locality.

In 1902 Mr. Adkins was united in marriage with Corda May Burkett, a daughter of Joseph W. Burkett, who is one of the leading farmers of Perry County, Ohio. Her brother, Prof. Charles Burkett has a national reputation as an instructor. Mr. and Mrs. Adkins have one daughter - Anna Louise, born February 9,. x904-

LOUIS BARTH, decorator and dealer in wall-paper at Lima, was born in Marion County, Ohio, September 9, 1877. His father, William Barth, residing on Union street, is a native of Saxony, Germany. Our subject's mother, whose maiden name was Rhoda Burrey, was born in Marion County, Ohio. William Barth and his wife reared three children, viz: Elmer, of Lima; David, of Los Angeles, California; J. Louis, the immediate subject of this sketch;, and Laura, wife of Harry Thew, of Lima.

J. Louis Barth has resided in Lima since his childhood and when old enough to make his own way in the world entered the Monroe factory where he was employed about two years. He left that work to accept the management of the store room of Carnes, Agerter & Company's car and machine works. After he had been in that position for two years, he decided to engage in business for himself, and to that end learned the trade of decorator. In 1899 he opened a store for the sale of wall-paper, etc., and has given such general satisfaction to his patrons that to-day he is the leader in that line of goods in Lima. In his stock will be found fashionable papers suited to the most fastidious taste and ranging in price from 5 cents to $35 per roll. In addition to his extensive local trade, he has a large outside patronage, and is widely known for his skillful and excellent work.

to Jessie Eleanor Jenkins, daughter of Dr. J. S. Jenkins, of Venedocia, Van Wert County, Ohio. They have one child, Marvin Jenkins, born May 21, 1905. Mr. Barth is a member of the Presbyterian Church and a man of integrity and worth.

'OHN R. HANCE, whose fine farm "Maple Grove," situated in section 1, Spencer township, adjoins the city limits of Spencerville, was born September 9, 1846, in Gallatin County, Kentucky, and is a son of Richard and Margaret Jane (Knox) Hance and a grandson of John and Keturah (Clements) Hance, natives of Lexington, Kentucky.

Mr. Hance comes of Revolutionary stock and of one of the old-established families of America. His great-great-grandfather, John Hance, who was a large slaveholder, came from England and was one of the very early settlers on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. His great-grandfather, Richard Hance, took part in the Revolutionary War and removed from Maryland to Kentucky, locating first in Scott County. He was one of the workmen employed in the building of the State House, at Lexington. Later he took up land in Bourbon County and passed the rest of his life there. He was considered a man of prominence and substance. His son John, born at Lexington, was the grandfather of our subject.

Of the family of 10 children born to John Hance and his wife, Keturah Clements, Richard Hance, the father of our subject, is the only survivor. He was born September 7, 1824, in Bourbon County, Kentucky, and was reared and educated in that State, where he remained until 1849, when he came to Ohio. During his 18 months of prospecting, he lived on the Auglaize Riven Finally, in April, 1851, he took up a tract of land in Jennings township, Van Wert County, and on its southeast corner erected a round-log cabin, with a stick and clay chimney. The county at that time was still practically unsettled and deer and wolves were plentiful in the surrounding forest and even bear were not unknown. Mr. Hance, with the assistance of his son John, cleared 80 acres of land and fenced his property with rails. All the luxuries and almost all of the necessities of what was then deemed comfortable living were produced at home, each member of the family having appointed tasks.

The family continued to occupy the first log cabin for a term of 1 1 years and then a more comfortable and commodious one was built of hewed logs, the work being done by Mr. Hance and his sons. The old house still stands solid and secure, although the family moved to Spencerville in 1889: While residing on the farm, Mr. Hance was supervisor of his road district at times ; he had much to do with making good roads.

In 1844 Richard Hance was married in Henry County, Kentucky, to Margaret J. Knox, who was a first cousin of James K. Polk, elected President of the United States in 1844. The Knox family is of Scotch origin and our subject's maternal grandfather took part in the War of Independence. The family first settled in Virginia and later assisted in establishing the colony on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Prior to the marriage of Margaret J. Knox, her people had located in Kentucky. She died in 1880. The children of this marriage who reached maturity were: John R. ; William Clements, of Bartlett, Kansas, who married Caroline Masters and has two children living; Wilkison K., of New Carlisle, Ohio, who married Sarah Allen and has five children ; Austin, a resident of Lima, who married Rebecca Shoemaker and has three children; Edward, who died aged 25 years; Icem, a resident of Lima, who married Eliza Snyder, and has three children; and Ann Eliza, who married Gordon Baker and has two children living. Mr. Hance has 19 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

On October 12, 1882, Richard Hance was married, second, to Mrs. Sarah C. Townsend, who was the widow of Jesse Townsend. Mr. and Mrs. Hance belong to the Baptist Church and reside at Spencerville.

John R. Hance accompanied his parents to Jennings township and grew up surrounded with pioneer conditions, these, perhaps, serving to develop both body and mind, for he was but

20 years old when he became a successful and popular teacher in the district schools. His first term was taught in the winter of 1866-67. He -continued to teach for 12 terms, mostly during the winters as his summers were employed in carrying on agricultural operations. In 1882 he located in Spencer township, Allen County, securing a partly improved farm on the edge of the corporation limits of Spencerville. Here he has continued to make improvements and has built and remodeled buildings so that his property has greatly increased in value. The Chicago & Erie Railroad passes through his farm, the rails having been laid in the year he secured the property.

On April 13, 1869, Mr. Hance was married to Margaret J. Van Sweringen, and to this union have been born these children : Sarah Isabelle, who died May 26, 1886, aged 16 years; Thomas E., who resides in Peru, Kansas; Jennie, who married David A. Parrott, of Spencerville, and has two children living and two deceased; Charles and Franklin (twins), the latter deceased at the age of 17 days - the former married Ellen Rose and has four children living and one deceased ; Mary, who is the wife of Robert Gracely Kossuth; Millie Ann, who married Clyde Robbins and died July 17, 1905, leaving two children - two other children died before their mother went to her reward ; Nora Catherine, who married Webb D. Metzger,, of Spencer township, and has one child; and Martha Rachel, who lives at home.

EORGE McCAULEY conducts a flourishing meat market and grocery store in Lima, where he has been a life-long resident. He first opened his eyes to the light of day in this city in 1873, his father being Joseph McCauley, now deceased, who came here about 40 years ago and engaged in milling.

George McCauley became a wage-earner at an early age, first as newsboy and later as a clerk in Adams' grocery store. After clerking about six years, he formed a partnership with a Mr. Biggs, and for the next three years the grocery business of McCauley & Biggs claimed all his attention. At the expiration of that time the partnership was dissolved, and during the following three years Mr. McCauley ran the store at the old stand alone. His brother, S. E. Mc- Cauley, then bought an interest in the business, and the stock was moved to the corner of Jackson and McKibben streets and conducted under the name of McCauley Brothers for another three years. Since that time our subject has been in business alone at No. 930 East High street, where he continues to cater to an extended and lucrative patronage.

An important epoch in his life occurred in 1904 when he was married to Florence Collins, a lady of many accomplishments and of pleasing personality. They have one son, Daniel Joseph, born November 23, 1905. Mrs. Mc- Cauley's parents D. E. and Ellen M. Collins, reside on Bellefontaine avenue Lima, and are prominent in the life of the city, the former being an oil gauger and the latter being a wellknown dealer in real estate. Mrs. Collins is a shrewd, clearheaded business woman, and in addition to Collins' addition to Lima has various other properties in the city to rent and for sale. Mr. McCauley is a devout member of St. Rose's Catholic Church and a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters.

H. HUNTLEY, M. D., who has an enviable reputation as a physician and surgeon, not only in Allen County, but throughout the State of Ohio, is a citizen of Lima where he universally respected and loved. He was born in Hardin County Ohio, in 1851, and is a son of Joseph Huntley, an agriculturist of that section who moved to Allen Couny about 1853 and here engaged in farming.

Dr. Huntley was a cripple in his childhood and for more than 10 years was able to go around only by means of crutches. This infirmity was overcome only after the fourth surgical operation had been performed upon his feet and doubtless to this affliction and subsequent relief Allen County is indebted for one of her most skillful surgeons, the desire to enter that profession having entered the mind of the child at an early age and taken a firm hold upon it. So much interested was he in surgical work that when he was 12 years of age, he crawled up to a window, where he could command a view of the operating table, and watched Dr. S. A. Baxter amputate the leg of Mr. Shockey an old resident of the county. It was some time, however, before he saw the fruition of his hopes. His first labors were in a saddlery and harness shop where he learned the trade and followed it for three years. He then engaged in teaching school, never for a moment relinquishing his purpose of becoming a surgeon, and was at last able to enter the medical department of the University of Michigan. Having entered upon the work, he left no stone unturned to master the profession. After one year of hard study at Ann Arbor he entered the Eclectic Medical Institute, of Cincinnati, graduating from that institution in 1878. He opened his first office at West Newton, Allen County, later removing to Alger, Hardin County, where he practiced for some time. He continued his studies and in 1890 was graduated from the Starling Medical College of Columbus, Ohio. He has taken two post-graduate courses in Chicago, two in New York City, one in Boston and one in New Orleans. Dr. Huntley located in Lima in 1895, and few surgeons have been better equipped or more efficient in their chosen work than he. Heretofore the Doctor has devoted his time to both medicine and surgery, but after the first of January, 1906, he expects to confine his practice to surgery. His rare skill and almost phenomenal success has made the name of Dr. Huntley a familiar one in medical circles, while it is held in grateful love in Ihundreds of home's which his service's have blessed with health. While he handles all manner of surgical cases, and has an extended and enviable reputation in abdominal surgery, his specialty is in treating diseases of the limbs and feet.

Dr. J. H. Huntley was married in 1885 to Mary E. McClung, daughter of Hutchison Mc- Clung. Their union has been blessed by the birth of one daughter, Grace Darling, who is a young lady possessing many accomplishments and rare ability as a reader. Graduating from the literary department of Lima College in the class of 1904 with the degree of B. L., she entered the Emerson School of Oratory at Boston, where she is now in her second year and has a reputation as a reader which is excelled by few. Like her father, she is an untiring student and compels success in whatever she undertakes. Dr. Huntley is a member of the Allen County, Northwestern Ohio, State and American medical associations and is an instructor in the Lima Training School for Nurses. He is a Royal Arch Mason and a man who is looked up to and respected by all.

BREDERICK GOODMAN, a representative of one of Allen County's prominent pioneer families, is engaged in farming in Shawnee township, his farm being located in section 4. He was born January 12, 1836 in Ross County, Ohio, and is a son of Peter and Diana (Shaffer) Goodman, and a grandson of Peter Goodman, Sr., who in 1803, with his brothers, Daniel and Samuel, removed from Reading, Pennsylvania to Ross County, Ohio. The three brothers were married and brought their families with them.

Peter Goodman, father of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania in 1803 and was three weeks old when the family came to Ohio and located in Ross County. There in early life he engaged in hauling freight, consisting of all kinds of merchandise, driving six-horse teams. He acquired a piece of land in that county, which he cleared and cultivated until i860, in which year he came to Allen County. Here he purchased a tract of 160 acres, located five miles east of Lima. There he farmed and resided until 1880, when he moved to the present Goodman farm in section 4, Shawnee township. He died on this place April 9, 1882, aged 89 years. His wife, Diana (Shaffer) Goodman, was born in Virginia and was 17 yearsold when she came to Ohio. Her death occurred in February, 1870. Peter Goodman was a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Lutheran Church.

of Daniel Moyer, living in Arkansas; Frederick ; Margaret ; Charles, who lived on the home place until his death at the age of 46; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of Albert Hefner, ex-county commissioner of Allen County ; David, deceased at the age of 22 years; Calvin; and Oliver who died at the age of two years.

There are two houses on the Goodman farm, one of them occupied by our subject and his family and the other by his sisters, Harriet and Margaret, and his brother Calvin, who have never married.

Frederick Goodman was past 24 years of age when, in April, i860, he accompanied the family to Allen County. He enlisted in the Union Army in 1862, and served three years in the Pioneer Corps, seeing hard service in the South and West. The work was very hazardous, as it was usually in advance of the fighting line. The detachments of the Pioneer Corps, while engaged at their work of clearing away obstructions, building roads and bridges, etc., were always subject to attacks by large forces of the enemy. They were in the woods cutting timber upon one occasion when they were attacked by 500 Confederate cavalrymen. Mr. Goodman was shot through the leg and was incapacitated for some time. He was honorably discharged in May, 1865, and returned to Columbus, where for about a year he followed his trade as a mechanic. He had followed his trade in St. Louis for a time before going to the war. Since returning to Allen County he has been engaged in farming, although he has done some carpentering.

In working upon the place some time ago, Mr. Goodman ploughed up a silver hair-comb, which Mrs. Goodman or her daughter sometimes wears. Although buried in the ground many years, it is not in the least impaired. Our subject also has an old Indian scalping-knife, which was found on the place, and many other interesting relics of the period of Indian habitation in Allen County.

More than a century ago Turkey Foot, a member of the Shawnee tribe of Indians living in this vicinity, built on what is now the Goodman farm' a cabin which has since been known as "Turkey Foot's Cabin." It is still standing, although fast succumbing to the elements.

On February 5, 1884, Frederick Goodman married Loureath Hibbets, who was born in Jackson township, Allen County, Ohio, and is a daughter of John and Margaret (Harper) Hibbets. John Hibbets removed to Champaign County, Ohio, at an early date, and in 1830 came to Allen County, locating a farm situated partly in Bath and partly in Jackson township, the house being in the latter. His wife chopped down the first tree for the clearing where the log-cabin was erected.

Mrs. Hibbets was born in West Virginia at Harper's Ferry, and was a daughter of Samuel and Sarah Harper, who moved from Harper's Ferry, which was named after this family, to Champaign County, Ohio.

Mr. and Mrs. Hibbets had 10 children, namely: Maria, wife of Jesse Rambaugh, living in Iowa ; Samuel, who lives in Michigan ; Peggy, Sarah, John, Caroline, Rosanna and Jane, all deceased; Loureath, wife of our subject; and Aramitta, wife of Henry Bolton, of Lima. John Hibbets, father of Mrs. Goodman, finally moved from Jackson to Shawnee township, and took up a farm which connects with our subjects. He died December 24, 1889; his wife died February 4, 1888.

To Mr. and Mrs. Goodman were born two children, as follows : Clara, deceased at the age of two years ; and Alta, born September 28, 1888, who lives at home.

Mr. Goodman is a Democrat in politics, and was six years on the township board. Mrs. Goodman is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church ; Mr. Goodman, while not a member, of the church, has always been a consistent church-goer and has contributed towards building churches.

HARLES E. CRAIG, county surveyor of Allen County, and a popular and efficient official, was born in Auglaize County, Ohio, December 3, 1870. and is a son of Silas and Mahala (Stepleton) Craig, who are natives of Allen County. They reared a family of seven children.

Thornton T. Mitchell

obtained his primary education in the public schools. Afterwards he became a student at the Ohio Normal University and still later, at Lima College. For probably 10 years he followed his profession as surveyor and engineer during the summer seasons in Allen County, spending his winters teaching school. In 1903 he was elected county surveyor of Allen County on the Democratic ticket. This position brings with it many important duties and requires a well-equipped man properly to perform them. Such Mr. Craig has proven himself to be. In addition to his own personal work, two deputy surveyors are required, over whom he has entire supervision.

Mr. Craig is looked upon as one of the rising young men of Allen County, and he is personally popular with his fellow citizens, irrespective of party. He is fraternally connected with the Odd Fellows and the Knights of the Golden Eagle. At present writing Mr. Craig is unmarried and resides at No. 789 Oak street, Lima.

HORNTON T. MITCHELL, president of The City Bank of Lima, whose portrait accompanies this sketch, belongs to one of the old pioneer families of this section. Mr. Mitchell was born on his father's Ohio farm, on August 27, 1827, and is a son of John P. and Maria (Bentley) Mitchell.

The parents of Mr. Mitchell came to Lima when the present city was represented by nothing but a couple of log houses, in fact John P. Mitchell's family was the second one to really establish a home here, this being in 1831. The father died in 1834, leaving four children. Though the little home of logs was a building but 15 feet square, it was quite as pretentious as any of its neighbors for a long time following.

Our subject was four years old when his parents came to Lima and here he grew to manhood. Pie learned the harness-making trade as a means of livelihood and worked at this and the saddlery business until 1878. Since then he has been interested in banking, having bought out the business of Dr. S. A. Baxter.

The capital stock of The City Bank of Lima, is $50,000. Under Mr. Mitchell's careful and conservative direction, the bank has become one of the best known institutions of this city. The cashier is Elmer B. Mitchell and the assistant cashier is Ernest T. Mitchell, sons of our subject.

Mr. Mitchell was married to Nancy Stevens and they have seven children, as follows : Roena F., widow of A. C. Baxter, Sr. ; Elmer B., mentioned above; Mrs. Emma H. Decker; Ernest T., also mentioned above; Dora F., wife of S. K. Blair, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, superintendent of the Western Division of the "Nickel Plate" Railroad ; Mary E., widow of J. A. Hesse; and Thornton W., who is engaged in the oil business. All reside in Lima except Mrs. Blair. The family belong to the Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Mitchell is a generous supporter. He is interested in many benevolent institutions and is one of the most liberal men as well as one of the largest capitalists of Allen County. The beautiful family home at Lima is situated at No. 304 West Market street. Politically Mr. Mitchell is a Republican. Fraternally he is a Mason.

ANIEL J. O'DAY. The death of Daniel J. O'Day, which occurred May 28, 1905, at his home on the southeast corner of West ^nd North streets, Lima, removed one of the city's most estimable and beloved citizens, and a man whose rise from a humble position to that of a distinguished one, in close association with the greatest combination of capital and brain that the world has ever known, was entirely through his own inherent ability. Thus his career, his methods, his personality and his victories possess an interest not only for his family and immediate friends, but for the country at large.

Daniel J. O'Day was born October 2. 1857, at Ellicottville, Cattaraugus County, New York, and was a son of Daniel and Hannah O'Dav, who died some years ago. Mr, O'Day was born into a large family, in which industry was considered a cardinal virtue, and frugality, a continuous necessity. His boyhood was passed on a farm and his opportunities for education and general culture were comparatively slight. No disadvantages however, and no drawbacks were sufficient to discourage one who possessed determination and ambition united with a strong character. When the time came for him to make a choice of career, it led from the farm, and as he had already shown a remarkable aptitude for mechanics, he sought an opening where these inclinations could be properly molded. In 1873 he thus became an apprentice in the boiler shops of Gibbs & Russell, at Titusville, Pennsylvania. Here his work was marked by carefulness, reliability and intelligence, and when his apprenticeship ended, he had a thorough and practical knowledge of machinery construction which, although he did not then know it, was to be of the greatest value to him later, in life. In 1876 he entered the service of the American Transfer Company, at Oil City, Pennsylvania, where he remained until 1878, when he was transferred to Bradford, Pennsylvania, and shortly afterward was placed in charge of the United Pipe Line interests at Olean, New York, being at the time of assuming these important relations but 22 years of age.

Mr. O'Day's capacity and fidelity were recognized and were still further rewarded in 1885, when he was appointed superintendent of the Macksburg Pipe Line, with headquarters at Macksburg, Ohio, where lie remained two years, during that period developing a system which connected the different pipe-lines of this field, and which extended as far as Parkersburg, West Virginia. Not only did Mr. O'Day accomplish a remarkable engineering feat, but by his shrewd, skillful and judicious management of all associated interests, still more fully proved to the company the great value of his services.

In January, 1887, Mr. O'Day was called to Lima, which city continued to be his chosen and beloved home until his death. He located here as general superintendent of the Buckeye Pipe Line Company, which then embraced the entire pipe-line system of the great Trenton rock oil field of Ohio and Indiana, the most far-reaching branch of the Standard Oil Company. This most responsible position he continued to acceptably fill until his decease. It was Mr. O'Day who was delegated by the Standard Oil interests to take charge of the great development of oil in Kansas and Indian Territory, in 1902, and, regardless of premonitions of illness, he gave his personal attention to the locating and constructing of the lines. This work was his last great accomplishment. During the many years of close association with men of all degree in the pipe-line business, he won respect and esteem. His bearing was ever genial and considerate and, knowingly, he never wronged an individual. His patience was remarkable and, as far as he was able, no employee had cause to resent an injustice done him. In fact, his practice throughout his business life evinced the impulses of a man governed by the highest understanding of business integrity and the determination to do right to the best of his ability. He never forgot old friends, nor ever attained to such an eminence that he considered it beyond his dignity to extend a friendly hand and give a kindly greeting to an acquaintance, no matter what might be his garments or the condition of his toil-worn hand.

In recalling the different events of Mr. O'Day's 18 years of citizenship at Lima, nothing is found to his discredit ; and on the other hand the list is long of honors bestowed and benefits given. It is conceded that he was one of the most public-spirited men who ever resided in a city which has been particularly fortunate in this regard. A reputable charity can not be named which was denied his assistance ; a large amount of his largest, however, was bestowed unostentatiously, and on many occasions the helping hand was extended without the recipient knowing from what source came the lifting of heavy financial burdens. It gave Mr. O'Day keen pleasure to thus regulate his charities.

To home enterprises Mr. O'Day was more than liberal in his contributions. He was one of the most actively interested citizens in assisting in the founding of the Lima Hospital, of which he became a trustee at its organization and continued one until his decease, ever looking after its interests. He assisted materially in establishing a free Public Library at Lima, and by advice and funds made it a real charity and one deeply and widely appreciated. He was a member of the board of directors of The First National Bank of Lima, and his name gave added strength to the corporation. He was a charter member of the Lima Club and in that, as in other organizations where he met his fellowmen on an equal footing, his judgment was consulted and his wishes considered. Men were proud to know him and cherished his friendship.

In 1882 Daniel J. O'Day and Catherine Griffin, of Olean, New York, were united in marriage. Mrs. O'Day and their daughter, Catherine E., survive the deceased and continue to reside in Lima.

For some two years prior to his death, Mr. O'Day had been in a physical decline, so in the hope of regaining health, with his wife and young daughter, he made a leisurely tour of the European continent. Upon his return his health was apparently so improved that his family and friends seemed warranted in their anticipation of complete restoration. Shortly afterward, however, disquieting symptoms became apparent and a sojourn in Florida was made, but even that mild climate was insufficient to check the ravages the disease had already made. Hence his departure from life came in his own luxurious home, in the midst of all the comforts and alleviations which love could suggest, with his beloved wife and adored child by his side as he journeyed into the dark valley. The solemn end came as the bright sun of a beautiful Sabbath day broke over the landscape.

From his coming to Lima until his death, Mr. O'Day was devoted in his church relationship. He was a Roman Catholic, was a valued member of St. Rose Catholic Church at Lima, and for a number of years prior to his death, had been a member of its board of trustees. He was a charter member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, Branch No. 64, and of Lima Council, No. 436, Knights of Columbus.

Mr. O' Day rose step by step, as has been briefly outlined. Others have done the same, but few there are whose passing can be recalled with so little to mar a perfect, manly life. His true memorial is written in the hearts and memories of his fellow citizens. The influence of his life cannot be lost as long as men honor iategrity, virtue and devotion to duty.

OSEPH EDWARD PIERSON is oneof the industrious, hard working aggriculturists of Allen County, whose success in life is due entirely to personal and concentrated efforts. His farm, which contains 67 acres of land, is one of the most carefully improved in section 17, German, township. He was born June 19, 1862, in Amanda township, this county, and is a son of Joseph and Hannah (DeLong) Pierson, whomoved to Allen County from Fairfield County in 1854 and who died there, the mother on May 15, 1886, and the father March 4, 1900. They sleep side by side in the silent city of the dead,, in Allentown.

The family located in Auglaize County,, where our subject received his education and grew to man's estate. He has always carried on farming and, with the assistance of his estimable wife, saved sufficient means to purchase his present farm in May, 1903. They took possession on the 10th of the following October, and have made many very noticeable improvements in the property since. He conducts general farming, and has leased the three oil-wells on his property to the National Consolidated Oil Company, of Lima.

Mr. Pierson was married April 20, 1884, to Maggie Esther Anderson by whom he has two children - Bernard Herman, born February 13, 1886, and Harold Throne, born February 3, 1892, who is a student in the Elida schools. Mr. and Mrs. Pierson belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church of Elida and are straightforward, upright people, who would be a credit to any community. Mrs. Pierson is a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Walker) Anderson, who came to this section of the State from Harrison County, Ohio, and are now living in Auglaize County. Her grandfather, Samuel Anderson, came from Ireland to Harrison County. She has five brothers and three sisters, as follows: Jennie, who married Hardy

Columbus Whetstone, of Auglaize County, and has three children; Keren, who married John Brown of Auglaize County; Gertrude, wife of Hubert J. Sunderland of this county, and the mother of three children: William; James Beatty ; Samuel ; Everett, who died December 22, 1904; and Joseph.

AMES W. HALFHILL, one of the leading attorneys of Lima and the junior member of the prominent law firm of Ridenour & Halfhill, was born at Mercer, Mercer County, Ohio, March 1, 1861, and is a son of Moses and Eleanor (Wood) Halfhill.

Mr. Halfhill comes of Revolutionary stock and colonial ancestry. There are many interesting facts connected with the early history of Lis family, one of these being the naming of the Plains of Abraham, in the Province of Quebec, once a notable battle-ground, in honor of Abraham Wood, a far-away ancestor. The family has been one distinguished in military life, members having been conspicuous in the War of 1812 and in the Civil War.

Mr. Halfhills youth was spent on his father's farm and his preliminary education secured in the common schools. Later he entered the Ohio Normal University at Ada, from which he was graduated with class honors in 1884. In 1885 he entered upon the study of the law at Bellefontaine, Ohio, with Judge West, later attended the Cincinnati College of Law, from which he was graduated in 1887. With a former classmate, now the well known attorney, Jacob C. Ridenour, he formed a law partnership, and they located at Lima where they have become justly eminent, each in his own way. They have offices located at No. 51 Public Square.

Mr. Halfhill is stanch in his adherence to the principles of the Republican party, and is proud of the fact that he has attended every State convention since reaching his majority. He has been very active in party organization and management, and in 1889 and 1890 was a member of the Republican State Central Committee. In the latter year he was first elected city solicitor and was reelected in 1892, this being the only public office he has held. Mr. Halfhill is a man rich in scholarly attainments and he has the power to make these^effective in his profession. As an orator and pleader before a jury he has a force of personality which sways his hearers and convinces them of the justice of his cause. For years he has been a prominent figure, as has his able partner, in almost all the important legal controversies of the courts.

Mr. Halfhill has always taken a great interest in military affairs and particularly in all the organizations connected with perpetuating the fame of the heroes of the Civil War. He has been elected an horonary member of the 46th Ohio Volunteer Infantry as a token of the esteem in which he is held by that and similar bodies. On numerous occasions he has been invited to deliver patriotic addresses and by word and pen has worked to bring about just legislation for every member of the veteran soldiery of the State.

On September 23, 1896, Mr. Halfhill was married to Cora A. Miller, the accomplished daughter of Rev. I. J. Miller, of Lima. Mr. Halfhill has a pleasant home and one son, James W. Halfhill, Jr.

Mr. Halfhill's efforts are always given to the support of worthy enterprises and, while not formally connected with any church or charitable body, he is liberal in his benefactions to all. Personally he is a man of winning address and his future is bright with promise.

ETER T. MELL, county recorder of Allen County, was born in Sugar Creek township, Allen County, Ohio, December 12, 1866, and is a son of John C. and Catherine C. (Jones)

The father of Mr. Mell was an agriculturist all his life. In 1S32 he settled in Allen County and carried on farming in Sugar. Creek township until his death in 1901. He had a family of six children.

He has been in public life for a number of years, being first appointed deputy treasurer of Allen County ; he was elected to his present position before his term as deputy had expired, passing thus without any interruption from one county office to another, a most unusual occurrence. He was the capable deputy treasurer for four years, and it was while serving in that capacity that he made so wide an acquaintance and gained the great number of friends who rallied to his support in 1889 when he was elected recorder. In 1902 he was honored and his administration endorsed by a re-election. His political affiliation is with the Democratic party. Mr. Mell is a substantial citizen as well as a popular one, owning a fine farm in Allen County, which he has under rental. His city residence is at No. 125 South Metcalf street.

Mr. Mell was married November 15, 1905, to Louise C. Hoover, daughter of John Hoover, of Lima. Fraternally Mr. Mell is a Mason and Knight Templar, belonging also to the Elks, Red Men and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He is a member of the Christian Church.

experienced physicians and surgeons of Lima, and also one of the city's most highly esteemed citizens, was born March 16, 1859, in New Philadelphia, Ohio, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Conwell) Pence.

The parents of Dr. Pence removed in 1864 from Eastern Ohio to Van Wert County, where the father engaged in farming and reared his family. He now lives retired in Buckland, Ohio.

Dr. Pence was five years old when his parents settled in Van Wert County, and there on his father's farm he grew to manhood. Having an inclination in the direction of medicine, he read with a local practitioner until prepared to enter the Cincinnati Medical College. He first began to practice in 1885, and in the year following was graduated at the Fort Wayne Medical College. In 1895 he attended lectures and was graduated at the New York Polyclinic. He took a post-graduate course there in 1902, visiting noted clinics and gaining experience in every modern method of medicine and surgery. Dr. Pence's first field of practice was at Spencerville, where he continued for 1 1 years, coming to Lima in 1898. He ranks high both as a physician and as a citizen, and since January 2, 1905, he has been president of the Board of Education.

Dr. Pence married Mary Griswold, a daughter of Delbert Griswold, and they have one daughter - Helen M. Dr., and Mrs. Pence are members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically Dr. Pence is identified with the Republican party. Fraternally he belongs to the Masons and the Elks.

families of the place. He was born here in the house which is now occupied by his maternal grandmother, Mrs. Mary Washburn, on the west side of the canal, south of the Methodist Episcopal Church, on October 12, 1875, and is a son of Claude M. and Handia J. (Washburn) Kennedy.

Claude M. Kennedy, father of our subject, was born January 11, 1851, in Juniata County, Pennsylvania, and in the following year was brought to Spencerville by his parents, Joseph and Elizabeth (Lawrence) Kennedy. The family is of English, Scotch, Welsh and Irish extraction. In the spring of 1874, Mr. Kennedy was married to Handia J. Washburn, who was a daughter of Thomas and Mary Washburn, the former, of whom is deceased. Three children were born to this union, viz : Brice,

After completing the common and High School course at Spencerville, our subject taught one term of district school and then completed his education in the Ohio Northern University at Ada, where he was graduated in the law department, in the class of 1899, being admitted to the bar on Octolx^r 14th of the same year. He opened his office at Spencerville six days later and has continued in practice

Since casting his first presidential vote, in 1896, he has been very active in politics. That year he was secretary of the Bryan Club of Spencerville, which had 400 members, and in the succeeding year he was secretary of the Democratic Executive Committee of Allen County, and until the present he has served as a delegate on many occasions to congressional, judicial and senatorial conventions. In 1898, while still reading law with Attorney J. N. Bailey, at Spencerville, he was appointed to a position in the State Senate at Columbus.

Mr. Kennedy has been identified with insurance interests at Spencerville for some years, having purchased the insurance business of J. J. Miller, who had established it in 1891. Mr. Kennedy represents 10 of the best companies of New York. In January, 1901. he was elected secretary of the Spencerville Home & Savings Association, and has served in this capacity ever since.

The Spencerville Home & Savings Association is one of the important business enterprises of Allen County. It was organized October 3, 1887, by S. L. Ashton, a popular newspaper man of Spencerville. The present officers are : Dr. L. R. Pence, president ; Raymond R. Kennedy, secretary ; and A. L. Gamble, treasurer. The Board of Directors is composed of the following capitalists : Dr. L. R.

Pence ; F. C. Snow, editor and proprietor of the Spencerville Journal-News; J. H. Beach ; C. H. Baum; D. M. Connor; C. M. Kennedy and J. M. Beard, all of Spencerville. The officers are all elected annually. Since Mr. Kennedy's first election, on the first Monday in January, 1901, the business has rapidly increased. The June statement for the six months prior to June 30, 1905, showed that the loans and mortgages amounted to $64,590.85, secured by real estate valued at $200,000. Loans are made on first mortgages only and must be well secured.

Mr. Kennedy is one of three trustees of the Victoria Colonization Company, which owns 18,500 acres of land outside of Victoria, Texas, a town of 7,000 population. The land has been improved, the company having erected about 40 houses and dug as many wells. The locality favors the growing of rice and other products suitable to the climate. The venture has been very successful for all concerned. Other property owned by Mr. Kennedy is the Keeth House property at Spencerville.

On June 2, 1898, Mr. Kennedy was married to Susie Dunathan, who is a daughter of J. H. Dunathan. For a number of years Mr. Dunathan was a general merchant in Auglaize County, which he served two years as county commissioner.- In August, 1881, he moved his store from Deep Cut on the canal to the present site just opposite the Keeth House in Spencerville, later selling it to John H. Taft, who is a prominent business man owning three stores in as many towns. Mr. Dunathan died in October, 1899. His wife survives and resides in Spencerville. The survivors of their 11 children are: Mrs. Henry Richardson, of

Spencerville, whose husband is the proprietor of the Peoples' Drug Company; Mrs. F. E. Weining, whose husband is proprietor of the Spencerville Steam Laundry; Harmon L., who is in the drug business at St. Marys, Ohio ; Susie; and Thomas R., who resides in Paulding, Ohio. Mrs. Kennedy is a graduate of the Spencerville High School, and is not only a lady of many accomplishments but also of unusual business ability. She has a thorough understanding of the building and loan business and assists her husband greatly in his work in this connection.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Spencerville. With his accomplished wife, Mr. Kennedy is popular in the literary and social circles of Spencerville. Fraternally he is a Mason and belongs to Arcadia Lodge, No. 306, of Spencerville.

this and neighboring towns. He is a native of Erie County, New York, and the son of Rev. Randolph Pennell, who for many years was a minister of the Methodist Church and is

T, C. Pennell entered the employ of an oil company at Petroleum Center, Pennsylvania, on April 8, 1865, and has been actively engaged in the oil industry since, being identified with the production of that commodity in the fields of Venango, Butler, Clarion and McKean counties, Pennsylvania, Allegany County, New York, and the Trenton rock fields of Ohio. He has been a producer since 1877 and at one t"lie had as many as 115 oil wells, in which he was interested, in active operation. In 1903 thecompany of Pennell Brothers & Morrison was organized for the manufacture of pulling machines, and other appurtenances required around oil-wells, and he is also a stockholder in the Humane Horse Shoe Company, of Lima, as well as in the Lima Gas Engine Company, and in banks at Gibsonburg and Lima. Mr. Pennell was married in 1886 to Emma Tabler, of Lima, and is the father of two children, Stella and Hazel. He is a member of Shawnee Commandery, No. 14, K. T., of Lima, and is a man who stands well among his acquaintances.

Frank Pennell, who has been associated with his brother in most of the enterprises above mentioned, was born in Erie County, New York, in 1847, and was educated at the various places in which his father was stationed. He was reared on a farm, but has been employed in the oil fields since early youth, and for 20 years past has been an operator and producer in Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio. He is a stockholder in the Lima Gas Engine Company, and Pennell Brothers & Morrison, having located in Lima about tw'o years ago, when the latter company wras organized. Pie is a shrewd, cautious business man, whose straightforward dealings have won him the confidence of his compeers and he is fast adding to the friends already made. In 1876 he was married to Emma C. Chadman, of Center County, Pennsylvania. Their children are as follows, viz: Marie, wife of Dr. R. F. Palmer, a physician who is in the government employ at Roosevelt, Arizona; Bessie; F. C., who is a senior in the medical department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor; Carrie, wife of R. Fought, a traveling salesman of New' York City; and Clarence, a student in the Lima Business College. Mr. Pennell is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

EORGE W. HARRISON, district manager of the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the Lima field, has been in charge here since September, 1904. Mr. Harrison was born in Defiance County, Ohio, in 1867, and is a sorr of David Harrison.

The father of Mr. Harrison was born in Virginia, and he followed farming there for some years, but later went into railroaad work and subsequently became a superintendent of the Wabash Railroad, having removed to Ohio.

Mr. Harrison was reared and educated in Paulding County, Ohio, and at Goshen, Indiana. In young manhood he went to Northfield, Minnesota, and entered into newspaper work, becoming associated with Mr. Heatwole, formerly a member of Congress, in the management of the ^Northfield Nczvs. Mr. Harrison remained here four years and then went to Austin, Minnesota, where he started th tDciily Register, conducting it one year. Then he accepted a position on the staff of the Minneapolis Tribune, as political editor, and was sent in this capacity into North Dakota, during the first Republican campaign, in the interests of the late President Benjamin Harrison, and that his ability was recognized was shown by an offer immediately made of the position of city editor of the Morning Argus, the leading Republican newspaper of North Dakota. During the session of the Legislature followdng, he was the representative of the paper at Bismarck and, through his ability and fair representation of passing events, made many friends both in and outside his own party.

After the close of the Legislature Mr. Harrison bought the Free Press, at Lisbon, North Dakota, which he ably conducted for 10 years. In 1897 he was elected by a large majority. State commissioner of insurance, the duties of which office he discharged with efficiency until the end of his term, when he went to Chicago and resumed journalistic work, remaining in that city for 18 months. In the meantime he had been in consultation with capitalists at Faribault, Minnesota, which culminated in the incorporation of the Faribault Printing Company, Mr. Harrison becoming president and manager of the organization, the object of which was the publication of a daily and weekly newspaper. His work as insurance commissioner had been of such a chracter that it brought him many flattering offers from the various old-line companies, but he declined official connection with them and did not really take up insurance work until, through the death of the Northwestern Mutual's agent at Lima, was left vacant an attractive field in his native State. A reorganization of the company having taken place, the main agency of the Ohio business being taken to Dayton, Mr. Harrison accepted the desirable position of district agent, sold out his newspaper and came to Lima. His field is a very large one, covering Allen, Putnam, Auglaize, Paulding and Van Wert counties. In Allen County, alone, this company has written over $2,000,000 worth of business.

In 1888 Mr. Harrison was married to Myrta E. Allen, of Northfield, Minnesota, who is a daughter of Edwin Allen, a raiser of fancy stock. They have four children, viz. : Loraine, George, Jr., Fay and Elsie. Mr. Harrison is a Knight Templar Mason and a Knight of Pythias. He belongs to Christ Protestant Episcopal Church.

ARRY O. BENTLEY, city attorney of Lima and junior member of the law firm of Wheeler & Bentley, was born April 14, 1873, and is a son of Winfield Scott and Mary (Anderson)

Mr. Bentley attended the public schools of Bluffton and at an unusually early age entered upon the study of the law, entering the office of the well-known firm of Ridenour & Halfhill, at Lima. From their tuition he entered the Ohio Normal University, where he was graduated from the department of law in 1896, in the same year entering into practice at Lima. On July 1, 1902, he entered into partnership with S. S. Wheeler, and in April of the same year he was elected city attorney on the Republican ticket. The firm occupies commodious quarters, consisting of four rooms in the Holland Block, these not being, however, too large for the amount of business transacted. His administration of the office of city attorney has distinguished .him as a man of far more than ordinary ability. He has many personal and political friends.

Mr. Bentley was united in marriage with Blanche Neff, who is a daughter of Henry W. Neff, a well-known citizen of Lima, and they have one daughter - Jane. Mr. Bentley and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their pleasant residence is situated at No. 317 West North street.

ILLIAM H. BENEDUM, one of the well-known, successful farmers of German township, who owns a well-improved farm of 140 acres in section 19, was born February 10, 1854, in Carroll County, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph Thomas and Elizabeth (Holmes) Benedum.

Joseph T. Benedum was born in Leesville, Virginia, November 27, 1826, a son of John Benedum, also a native of Virginia. The grandfather of our subject moved to Carroll County, Ohio, when his son, Joseph T. Benedum, was nine years old and there the latter was reared, educated and married. The maternal grandfather, William Holmes, was one of the old settlers of Carroll County. Joseph T. Benedum died in February, 1903, and his wife in 1895. They were both buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, near Allentown. Their children were: William IT, of this sketch; Mary, who died December 10, 1905. the wife of T. C. Long; John Wesley, who married Lizzie Virbryke and lives in Allentown ;Bcrtha, who married James Kennedy and lives in Allentown;

Thirza, wife of Charles Schook ; Charles, unmarried; 0. H., who married (first) Dora Mc- Laughlin and (second) Leona Cahill and resides at Spencerville ; Ida, wife of Cyrus Staver, of German township ; and Margaret, who died in infancy.

On February 20, 1881, William H. Benedum was united in marriage with Lydia Coon, who is a daughter of Wesley and Caroline (Hadsell) Coon, and is a sister of Mrs. Scott Rumbaugh. Mr. and Mrs. Benedum have these children: Alva, born February 20, 1882, who married Ethel Post, a daughter of S. A- Post, and has one child, Ruth ; Iva Myrtle, born December 7, 1884, residing at Lima; Zelma Pearl, born February 21, 1886, who lives at home; Vilas, born December 16, 1888; and Carrie Marie, born April 23, 1897.

Mr. Benedum bought his present farm in 1897, a very valuable property. He has been a resident of Allen County since 1864 and has always taken an active interest in its. general advancement. He has been a member of the School Board since locating in German township. For many years he has been connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is a member of the board of trustees of the church at Allentown. His fraternal connection is with the lodge of Odd Fellows at Elida. He is well known in all these localities, and is held in high esteem as a man of sterling character.

ILLIAM KLINGER, prosecuting attorney of Allen County, was born September 11, 1870, in this county, and is a son of Philip and Mary (Naas) Klinger.

The parents of Mr. Klinger were born in Germany. They came to America and for many years were respected citizens and well-todo farmers in Allen County. They now live retired in Lima. They were the parents of five children.

William Klinger obtained his early education in the common schools and pursued his law studies in the law department of the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated in 1895. He returned to Ohio, and has been one of the most successful of the students turned out from the firm of Ridenour & Halfhill, his preceptors. Mr. Klinger is associated in practice with Mr. Secrest, the firm name being Klinger & Secrest. They control a large part of the important litigation coming before the courts of Allen County. Their well-appointed offices are located at Nos. 21-22 Metropolitan Block.

Mr. Klinger has a charming home circle consisting of wife, who was formerly Ida Hood, daughter of John Hood of Allen County, and two interesting children - Clarence and Helen. The pleasant family residence is at No. 530 North Elizabeth street.

Politically, Mr. Klinger is a Democrat', and on that ticket he was elected prosecuting attorney in 1899 and was reelected in 1902 by a large majority. He has made a fine record in the office, and is entitled to the approbation expressed on every hand for his impartiality and. for the courage which he has shown in doing his full duty without fear or favor. Mr. Klinger's fraternal connections are with the Odd Fellows and Red Men.

RED CLARENCE SNOW, editor and proprietor of the Jourual-Nczvs, at Spencerville, the leading newspaper of the southwestern part of Allen County, was born May 8, 1858, at Paw Paw, Michigan, and is a son of Montraville and Fannie Flavilia (Tanner) Snow.

Mr. Snow comes of good old American stock. His father was a foundryman and manufacturer at Paw Paw, Michigan, for a number of years. Both he and his wife are deceased.

F. C. Snow was reared at Paw Paw and obtained his education in the public schools. After completing the common-school course, he entered his father's foundry for a time, but as he did not like the business he soon turned his attention to one more congenial, and entered a printing office. Mr. Snow came to Lima. Ohio, in 1882, where lie worked for a time at molding and then became foreman in the office of the Timcs-Dcmocrat. In 1SS9 he started a job printing office at Lima, which he continued until the spring of 1900, when he bought the Spencerville Journal. Under Mr. Snow's management this newspaper has made rapid strides and is now numbered with the leading papers of the county.

O11 December 25, 1883, Mr. Snow was married to Fannie Mumaugh, who died June 13, 1903. Seven children - three sons and four -daughters - were born to this marriage, of whom two sons and three daughters still survive. On May 15, 1905, Mr. Snow was married to Mrs. Harriet V. (Watkins) Alter, who is a daughter of Thomas J. Watkins, one of the Welsh settlers of Corner, and the widow of a prominent physician of Lima. Mrs. Snow is a lady of culture and accomplishments, and is a prominent member of Spencerville's social circles.

Mr. Snow is well known in fraternal life, being a Mason, Knight of Pythias and an Odd Fellow. In 1905 he was master of Arcadia Lodge, No. 306, F. & A. M.

ICHARD T. SUTTON, proprietor of the "Fountain Farm," one of the bestimproved properties in Amanda township, situated in the best part of section 3, belongs to one of the oldest families of Allen County. He was born in 1852 in the old frame house which stood on the present farm, one of the first frame structures in the neighborhood. He is a son of Thomas and Susan (Kephart) Sutton, and a grandson of Joseph and Sally (O'Hara) Sutton.

Joseph Sutton was one of the greatest woodsmen of his day. He was a scout during the War of 1812, and he it was who blazed the State road through Allen County. He came here from Montgomery and Champaign counties, locating in Allen County in 1822. His life had been one of much adventure and gave him a roving disposition. He was a great hunter and trapper, and took up land in various portions of the county but retained none of it permanently. He was friendly with the Indians and did much bartering with them, his family being one of the very first white ones to settle here.

Thomas Sutton was an entirely different man. When he reached manhood, he took up land in section 3 and kept adding to his original tract until he owned a large farm. He was born in Champaign County, Ohio, January 27, 1809, and married Susan Kephart, who was born February 22, 1816, and died July 27, 1891. She was a daughter of George Kephart, a pioneer miller. Mrs. Sutton was one of the little band of worshipers that was faithful to the Amanda Baptist Church, in the pioneer days, when it required loyalty. She was converted,, when quite young, and her life was one of consistency to her Christian faith. She was permitted to see her husband also become a member of the same faith, he joining the church November 18, 1869. Mrs. Sutton was affectionately known all through this neighborhood as "Grandma Sutton," and her many acts of kindness endeared her to both old and young.

Thomas Sutton was one of the trustees of Amanda township and both he and his brother were school directors for many years. The first school-house was on his farm, located about 50 feet south of where Richard T. Sutton's present residence stands. It was a log structure and its fittings were exceedingly primitive. The early teachers were George Maxom, Pell Johnand Misses Williams and Vincent. Mr. Sutton died in 1877. Of his eight children, the survivors are: Robert, a veteran of the Civil War and a resident of Spencerville; Mary K. Spencer, of Spencerville; Catherine, wife of Francis Bice; and Richard T.

To look back to the childhood and youth of our subject, takes the reader to days of pioneer simplicity. He recalls with lively interest when his father's log house was the center of social life in Amanda township, and after a new plank floor was put in the old log barn that edifice became the favorite meeting place for social gatherings from miles around. While in many ways the life of the pioneers was one of toil, hardship and privation, it was by no means lacking in pleasures, many of them, of course, of a simpler nature than modern life demands, but no less enjoyable. Both father and mother were industrious; in fact, with a large farm to clear and eight children to rear, there was but little time for idleness. The careful mother made all the family clothing by hand from flax, which, in all probability, she sowed and pulled herself and spun into thread and wove into cloth, or, from the wool grown on the home farm, and her busy, capable hands also spun the yarn and knitted the stockings and mittens for her family. She made the candles and the soap, tried out the lard at the yearly butchering, and baked those loaves of sweet, wholesome bread which her children still, most likely, believe never to have been equalled ; in fact, in recalling all the good mothers did in those days, their descendants are lost in admiration and wonder. In Mr. Sutton's youth there were no lucifer matches in use, fire being produced with the old flint upon punk or tow, and upon occasion live coals had to be procured from the neighbors.

Ploughing was done with the old wooden mold-board plow, which stirred the virgin soil then rich enough to produce without fertilization, and the harvesting was done with a reaping hook and sickle, and later with the hand cradle. Corn was dropped in the long, tiresome rows by the barefooted boys of the family, grain by grain, and was then covered with the hoe. As but 10 acres had been cleared when Thomas Sutton settled here and as the land was heavily timbered, oxen had to be used for the work. Our subject remembers that when bad weather prevented outside work his father was kept busy fashioning the family shoes and even earning an addition to his income by making them for others. Hand mills were in general use as established grinding mills were then far distant, Piqua being the nearest point to the Sutton household. Mr. Sutton has seen all this fair locality developed out of a forest and -in his youth did a large part of the work of redeeming this farm.

The present home is known as the "Fountain Farm." Mr. Sutton has been an extensive stock-raiser for a number of years and now has 200 head of sheep, 20 head of horses and about the same number of hogs. In its equipments of machinery, cultivation and improvements, it is one of the most modern in all Amanda township. The handsome residence has been built upon a slight elevation which gives a wide outlook in every direction. The grounds are carefully attended to, and the result is a beautifully shaded lawn and a profusion of flowers in their season. I11 1882 Mr. Sutton lost his fine home and all his buildings by a destructive fire. They were rebuilt and again burned to the ground, in 1894; by 1895 he had replaced the buildings with still better ones, and in 1903 he erected his new barn, a substantial structure, 48 by 36 feet in dimensions, modern in every particular. He is a man with very practical, sensible ideas and in making his many improvements has built entirely along modern lines.

Mr. Sutton was married to Amarella Bice, who is a daughter of the late William and Tabitha (Sunderland) Bice. Mrs. Bice was a daughter of Dye and Mercy (Berryman) Sunderland. Mr. Sunderland was one of the very first settlers at Fort Amanda. The father of Mrs. Sutton was a man of prominence in the county, and served for some years as county commissioner.

Mr. and Mrs. Sutton have two children - a daughter and son; the former, Ura Lucretia, is the wife of George Daugherty, of Spencer ville ; and the latter, Charles Thomas, assists on the home farm.

In religious belief Mr. and Mrs. Sutton have always been identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. They are well and widely known all through Amanda township, representing, as they do, two of the old and prominent pioneer families. Their beautiful home is one of great hospitality, its owners showing a hearty welcome to their many friends on all occasions. Mr. Sutton has never been very active in politics but he has always been ready to do his full part in advancing the township's interests in the way of public improvements, and the making and upholding of good laws.

LEWELYN JONES, funeral director and undertaker at Gomer. and also engaged in farming in Sugar Creek township, resides on his farm of 65 acres located in section 32, 45 acres of which belong to the old Jones homestead. Mr. Jones was l>orn on this farm, March 17, 1856, and is a son of Josiah and Mary (Hughes) Jones.

the opposite page, was born at Braichodnant, Llanbrynmair, North Wales, July 4, 1807. Prior to coming to America in 1850, he was a large woolen manufacturer in his native land. He settled in the town of Gomer, Allen County, Ohio, where he engaged to some extent in farming. His main business, however, was undertaking. His death took place October 15, 1887, at the a§T of 80 years and three months. In North Wales he married Mary Hughes, who died in September, 1889, aged 80 years. They had a family of eight children, as follows: Thomas, who died in infancy in Wales; Thomas Henry, the present treasurer of Allen County, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work ; Mary M., who married Israel Jones and died April 13, 1872; Annie C., who married Lewis Hughes, of Cincinnati, and died October 17, 1879; Josiah E., deceased April 13, 1886; Martha E., who resides with her brother Llewelyn on the old homestead ; Margaret Lydia, deceased January 1, 1893; and Llewelyn, the subject of this sketch. Josiah Jones was for 45 years a deacon of the Welsh Congregational Church, of Gomer. He was very well educated, being especially conversant with the Welsh language and literature. He was also gifted as a poet and composed in Welsh a number of hymns, some of which are still being sung in the Gomer church and in many other Welsh churches in this country and in Wales. He wrote under the nom de plume of "Josiah Br.ynmair" his history of the Gomer church and settlement, written in Welsh and dating from the organization of the church to 1867, has been translated by his nephew, John R. Jones, and appears in the history of Sugar Creek township in Chapter VII of this work.