Ashtabula County, Ohio - Chapter 41: Miscellaneous, 1924 (part 4 of 5)

G. N. Crowther has spent his entire life in Ashtabula County. After attending the public schools of North Kingsville, he was graduated from Ashtabula High School in 1915. He then engaged in the general merchandise business at North Kingsville, just across the street from his present location. In 1918 he sold his business and enlisted in the merchant marines, and served in that branch of the service for eight months. Upon his return to North Kingsville, Mr. Crowther opened his present place of business. He handles a fine line of groceries and general merchandise, and also has the postoffice in connection.

On July 16, 1918, Mr. Crowther was united in marriage with Miss Gretchen Hollister, a native of Kingsville, and the daughter of T. S. and Eleanor Hollister, residents of North Kingsville. The Hollister family _ ranks among the leading pioneer families of Ashtabula County. Mr. and Mrs. Crowther have no children. .

In politics Mr. Crowther is identified with the Republican party and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church and are widely and favorably known throughout the county.

W. E. Richmond, a well known citizen of Ashtabula County, who is engaged in the furniture and undertaking business at Kingsville, was born there July 28, 1887, and is a son of George D. and Florence (Hart) Richmond.

George D. Richmond was a native of Watertown, N. Y., who came to Ashtabula County with his parents at the age of 14 years. They settled at Kingsville where Mr. Richmond was reared by Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, his parents having died soon after their arrival at Kingsville. Mr. Richmond operated a tannery at Kingsville in partnership with Mr. Thompson for several years, after which he established the furniture business now conducted by his son. Their first building, located where the post office now stands, burned in 1918 and the two story building across the street from the post office, now owned by Mr. Richmond was purchased by his father about the year of 1918. In 1920, W. E. Richmond bought the building from his mother. The father died Nov. 24, 1920. The mother lives at Jamestown, N. Y.

_ W. E. Richmond was educated at Kingsville and when a young man went to Pittsburgh, Pa., where he remained 18 years. While there he became the owner of four motion picture theatres, besides other business interests. After his father's death he returned to Kingsville and took charge of the business, which is one of the oldest of its kind in Ashtabula County. In connection with the furniture and undertaking business, Mr. Richmond deals in wall paper and paint.

have two children: June, who was graduated from the Kingsville Normal School at the age of 17 years; and George A., a student. Miss Richmond is the only pupil that has ever completed the four year course at Kingsville Normal School in three years.

Mr. Richmond is a member of the Presbyterian church and belongs to the Masonic lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a member of the State Police and is Secretary of the Kingsville Fire Department. Mr. Richmond is a progressive citizen, who merits the esteem in which he is held by his fellow citizens.

Mrs. Margaret R. Thompson, known as Nellie Thompson, a widely known and highly esteemed citizen of Ashtabula County, who lives at Kingsville, is a native of Ohio. She was born at Kingsville, June 10, 1840, and is a daughter of Moses and Ruth (Pearsall) Pease.

Moses Pease was born at Plainfield, Oswego County, N. Y., in 1804, and came to Ohio in 1838. He was a mason by trade and also farmed 25 acres of land which he purchased in Kingsville Township. Mr. Pease later purchased a home at Kingsville where he died in 1896. His wife, also a native of New York, born Oct. 8, 1809, died in 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Pease, who were married in 1830, were the parents of the following children: Samuel, born Feb. 24, 1831, deceased; Roland, born Dec. 29, 1836, deceased; H. H. born March 19, 1849, mention of whom is made below; Sarah, born Feb. 30, 1833, deceased; Clarinda, born Dec. 3, 1834, deceased ; Frederick, born in 1838, deceased; and Margaret R., the subject of this sketch.

H. H. Pease, who lives with his sister, Mrs. Thompson, was married to Miss Mary E. Barnum, of Rock Creek, Ohio, and to this union five children were born, as follows: F. A., married Miss Bell White, lives in Cleveland, where he is head of the F. A. Pease Engineering Company; William E., a chief engineer for the Van Sweringen Brothers of Cleve- : land, lives in Lakewood, Ohio; Harry R., doctor of osteopathy, lives at Steubenville, Ohio; Charles N., a locomotive engineer on the Nickel Plate Railroad, lives in Buffalo, N. Y.; and Nellie N., died at the age of 11 years.

Miss Margaret R. Pease has always lived in Ashtabula County. She was married to George Washington Thompson, who died in 1909. He owned a tannery at Kingsville for many years, which was built by Thomas Richmond and Julius Murray. To Mr. and Mrs. Thompson four children were born, as follows: Gaylord Grant, lives in Conneaut, where he is chief clerk for the New York Central Railroad freight office, married Jennie Robinson and have a daughter, Aimee Thompson, who lives in Los Angeles, Calif., a motion picture actress, her stage name being Mae Busch; Raymond Clark, a telegraph operator, lives at Kingsville, married Etta Southwick, and they have three children, Gordon, Graedon, and Pearl Westfalls; Pearl E. Eastman, lives at Kingsville, and she has three children, Raymond Genivieve, and Marian; and Carlton H., an attorney, lives in Idaho, married Abbie Ingersoll. Mrs. Thompson has twelve great grandchildren and twelve grandchildren.

Mr. Thompson was a member of the Baptist church, as is his wife. The Thompson family is among the prominent and honored pioneer families of Ashtabula County.

C. E. Hawkins, a well known jeweler and watchmaker of Ashtabula County, who lives at Kingsville, is a native of Ohio. He was born at Kelloggsville, Oct. 15, 1867, and is a son of C. S. and Laura (Colburn) Hawkins. '

C. S. Hawkins was a native of Kingsville, born in 1847. His parents came to this county from Connecticut in the early days. C. S. Hawkins was a cooper by trade and for many years owned a general merchandise store at Kelloggsville. He served during the Civil War and died in 1920. His wife lives at Kingsville and is 78 years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins had four children as follows: May, married W. E. Peck, and they have two children, Roland and Marion; C. E., the subject of this sketch; Grace E., born in 1869, married M. Hopkins, lives at Kingsville; and Leva R., born in 1871, married M. Griggs, and they have two children, Homer and Howard.

C. E. Hawkins received his education in the public schools of Kelloggsville, where he spent his boyhood. He learned his trade as a watchmaker at LaPorte, Ind., and engaged in the jewelry business in 1883 at Kingsville.

In 1911 Mr. Hawkins was married to Miss Calista R. Richmond, of Kingsville, and the daughter of G. D. and Florence Richmond. Mr. Richmond was a prominent business man of Kingsville for many years and died in 1920. His wife lives at Jamestown, N. Y. To Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins has been born one child, Laura Florence, born in 1920.

Miss Frances E. Holden is a member of one of the prominent pioneer families of Ashtabula County. She was born at North Kingsville, July 12, 1862, and is the daughter of Ira and Sara J. (Phelps) Holden.

Ira Holden was a native of North Kingsville and a leading citizen of that section during his life. He was a building contractor and died in July, 1913. Mr. Holden was a well known musician and was a membér of the choir of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Ashtabula, where his father had served as choir leader. In 1861 Mr. Holden was married to Sara J. Phelps, also a native of North Kingsville, born April 30, 1839. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Francis B. Phelps. Her father was the son of D. C. Phelps who settled at North Kingsville in 1811. - After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Holden lived on the old Phelps farm where they spent the remainder of their lives. Mrs. Holden died in May, 1922, and is buried in East Lake Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Holden one child was born, Frances E., the subject of this sketch.

Miss Frances E. Holden has spent her entire life at the ancestral home. After attending the schools there she was graduated with her mother in the Chatauqua Reading Course in 1889, and afterward graduated in physical culture and graduated at the Scorer School of Elocution and Oratory in Cleveland and was a student of music.

Miss Holden is a member of the Presbyterian Church of North Kingsville and has served as Sunday School superintendent for a number of years. She has always taken an active interest in club work and both she and her mother were members of the Orion Chapter No. 12 Order Eastern Star, Kingsville. Miss Holden is esteemed throughout the community as a woman of high ideals.

A. A. Mack, deceased, was a resident of Ashtabula County during his entire life. He was born at Sheffield, in 1853, the son of Albert and Rachel (Rogers) Mack.

A. A. Mack attended the district schools of Ashtabula County and when a young man learned the painter's trade which he successfully followed until the time of his death. Mr. Mack was employed by the New York Central Railroad for many years and as a foreman had charge of decorating the railroad depots in this section of the state. He died in 19138 and is buried at North Kingsville.

the daughter of Homer:and Diantha (Merriman) Sheldon. Mr. Sheldon, who died in 1914, was the son of Ezekiel Sheldon, who entered a farm of 112 acres from the government. He was one of the first settlers of Ashtabula County and became a prosperous farmer, as did also his son Homer. The latter Mr. Sheldon took an active interest in school matters during his life and was influential in obtaining the centralized school system at Kingsville. He was for many years township trustee and a member of _ the school board. His wife lives at North Kingsville and is 81 years of age. Mrs. Mack is their only child. To Mr. and Mrs. Mack were born two children: Sheldon A., a graduate of Ashtabula High School and the ' Spencerian Business College at Cleveland, now lives with his mother; and Agnes, a graduate of Ashtabula High School and the University of Michigan, where she studied physical training. She is now in Cleveland.

Mr. Mack was a Republican. His wife belongs to the Pythian Sisters, the Maccabees and the Rebeckahs. Mr. Mack was highly respected and the Mack family is representative of the best citizenship of Ashtabula County.

A. C. Olson, a well known merchant of North Kingsville, and veteran of the World War, was born in Ashtabula, June 21, 1891, and is the son of Andrew M. and Anna (Johnson) Olson.

Andrew M. Olson, who now lives retired in Ashtabula, is a native of Sweden, as was also his wife. After coming to this country he engaged in business at Ashtabula for many years and served as commissioner during Dr. I. H. Pardee's administration. His wife died April 1, 1916. To Mr. and Mrs. Olson the following children were born: Charles, lives at Ashtabula Harbor; Herman, lives in Cleveland; A. C., the subject of this sketch; Ethel, lives with her father in Ashtabula; and LeRoy and Amanda, both deceased.

A. C. Olson was reared and educated in Ashtabula and after completing his schooling in 1906, engaged in the bakery business with his brother teered for service and was sent overseas. Upon his return in October, 1919, he established his present place of business in North Kingsville, which is a wholesale and retail bakery. He also deals in confections. Mr. Olson maintains a delivery service throughout the surrounding community and has a well established trade.

Ohio, the daughter of Andrew and Olive (Grove) Osborne, residents of Kelloggsville. To Mr. and Mrs. Olson have been born two children: Donald and Luella Ruth. .

In politics Mr. Olson is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Methodist church and belongs to the Masonic lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Reuben Harmon, who lives on the North Ridge Road at North Kingsville, has been prominently identified with the agricultural interests of Ashtabula County for many years. He was born on a farm at North Kingsville, Oct. 4, 1858, and is the son of Hollis K. and Zeviah M. (Ransom) Harmon.

Hollis K. Harmon was a leading pioneer citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born at North Kingsville, April 12, 1880, and died Dec. 29, 1899. Mr. Harmon owned 110 acres of land and engaged in farming during his entire life. His wife, who was born in Maine, Oct. 1, 1828, came to this county with her parents when she was three years of age, is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Harmon, who were married at Kingsville, in November, 1854, were the parents of the following children: Reuben, the subject of this sketch; Arthur C., lives on-the home place, married Edith Potter, of Ashtabula, and they have one son, Glenn; and Hattie M., married William H. Weaver, lives at Monroe, Ohio, and they had five children, Bertha, deceased, was the wife of Garfield Bisbee, Fred, Mabel, wife of Charles Kidder, Alice, deceased, married Eugene Kidder, and Walter.

Reuben Harmon has always lived in Kingsville. He was among the most extensive stockmen of the county and owned 375 acres of land. Mr. Harmon is now living on his farm of 19 acres, which is located on North Ridge road, four and one-half acres are planted in fruit, and Mr. Harmon's residence, which was built in 1914, is among the fine homes of Ashtabula County.

In 1880 Mr. Harmon was married the first time to Miss Charlotte Hammond, who died Sept. 12, 1889, leaving three children as follows: Catlin S., born in 1885, lives with his father, married Miss Hazel Dean, of Monroe, Ohio; Ethel, married Harvey Walker, lives in Cleveland; and Charlotte, married F. J. Nearpass, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. In 1892, Mr. Harmon was married to Miss Harriet M. Stanton, of Sheffield, Ohio, and to this union three children were born, as fol- lows: John Hollis, lives in Seattle, Wash., married Ruth Dickinson, of Ashtabula; Edwin L., a student in the Medical School of Western Reserve University, Cleveland; and Ruth, who died at the age of eight years. Mrs. Harmon died Oct. 15, 1922, and is buried at North Kingsville. John Hollis Harmon is a veteran of the World War.

Mr. Harmon is an independent voter. He is a reliable citizen, and was able to build up a successful farming business by his integrity and progressive methods.

Robert E. Martin, retired, is a prominent pioneer business man of Ashtabula. He was born in Perry Township, near Massillon, Starke County, Ohio, July 3, 1849, and is the son of Anthony and Barbara Martin.

Anthony Martin was a native of France, as was also his wife. He was born in 1806 and when a young man came to this country and located on a farm in Starke County, Ohio. Mr. Martin was a stone mason by trade but followed farming and also engaged in the mercantile business. He died in 1882 and his wife, who was born in 1806, died in 1875. Mr. and Mrs. Martin were the parents of ten children as follows: Anthony, deceased; Philip, deceased; August, was a veteran of the Civil War, having served with Company A, 13th Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; Adam, deceased ; Barbara, deceased; Catherine, married Adam Holsbach, deceased; Caroline, married Jacob Holsbach, deceased; Mary, the widow of Jacob Huether, lives at Sharon, Pa.; Sarah, married Jacob Crone, both deceased and Robert E., the subject of this sketch.

Robert E. Martin was reared and educated at Massillon, Ohio, and educated in the public schools, completing his high school course. In 1876 he came to Ashtabula where he engaged in the wholesale liquor business, becoming one of the most prosperous merchants of the city. He was later engaged in the grocery business until 1920, when he retired and now lives at 27 McGovern Avenue. Altogether Mr. Martin was in business more than 45 years.

Mr. Martin was married to Miss Abbie O'Connor, a native of Massachusetts, who died in 1884. Mr. Martin is an independent voter and a member of the Catholic Church. He is among the substantial and highly respected citizens of Ashtabula County.

Robert Be. Martin

Thomas G. Madden, mayor of Kingsville, is a substantial and highly esteemed citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born at Oswego, N. Y., Jan. 28, 1862, and is the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Griffin) Madden.

came to the United States and settled at Oswego, N. Y., where he became '-amerchant. He died in 1864. His wife, also a native of Ireland, died in Sheffield Township. Their only child was Thomas G., the subject of this sketch. Elizabeth (Griffin) Madden was married the second time about 1865 to James E. Lyons, a native of Ireland. They lived in Cleveland about 40 years where Mr. Lyons was a teaming contractor. About 1878 they moved to Sheffield Township, Ashtabula County, and both died on the farm here. To them three girls and two sons were born. Those now living are: Mrs. Bert Lyons of Ashtabula and Mrs. Aldin Whipple, now living in Plymouth Township.

Thomas G. Madden grew to manhood in Cleveland and attended the public schools there. After completing his law course at the Cleveland Law School, Mr. Madden entered Baldwin-Wallace College at Berea, Ohio, from which he was graduated on June 4, 1914. He was admitted to the bar on June 25th of that year and on March 17, 1916, was admitted to the United States courts. Mr. Madden practiced his profession in Cleveland until 1920, at which time he retired and moved to North Kingsville. Before practicing law, Mr. Madden was captain in the Cleveland police force for 25 years.

On May 24, 1883, Mr. Madden was united in marriage with Miss Florence Marie Merriman, of North Kingsville, Ohio. To this union a daughter was born, Grace, who married Edward Beckwith of Cleveland. She died in 1909 at the age of 23 years.

George Hall, retired contractor of Ashtabula County and a veteran of the Civil War, is a prominent citizen of the community in which he lives. He was born at Spalding, England, July 25, 1842, and is a son of William and Mary (Hollingsworth) Hall.

William Hall was a shoemaker by trade and died soon after the birth of his son, George, the subject of this sketch. In 1852 his widow and son came to the United States. She died in 1897 at Ashtabula. After ing the conflict. He then came to Ashtabula where he became a building contractor. In 1914 Mr. Hall retired from contracting. Since that time he has superintended the construction of several school buildings and factories in Ashtabula, among the latter being the American Fork & Hoe Company. He is now living retired at his home in North Kingsville Village on the North Ridge Road.

In October, 1869, Mr. Hall was united in marriage with Miss Eliza Sandhovel, who was born in Ohio, Oct. 25, 1848. To this union a daughter was born, Mary. She is employed in the Electric light office of the City of Ashtabula. Four other children are deceased, Bertha, Charles, Edna and Frank. Mary Hall is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Politically, Mr. Hall is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Trinity Church of Ashtabula and Miss Hall is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Hall belongs to the Masonic lodge. He and his family are well and favorably known in Ashtabula County.

J. J. Bourquin is an enterprising and practical farmer of Kingsville Township. He was born at Tidioute, Pa., March 11, 1854, and is the son of J. J. and Frances (Ducray) Bourquin.

J. J. Bourquin, deceased, was a native of Switzerland and at the age of 20 years came to this country and located at Meadville, Pa., where he followed his trade as a blacksmith. Later in life he retired and engaged in farming. Mr. Bourquin died in 1895 and his wife, who was born in France in 1824, died in 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Bourquin were the parents of ten children as follows: Julius, a merchant, lives at Tidioute, Pa.; Alexander, deceased; Augustus, deceased; J. J., the subject of this sketch; Amos, lives in Colorado; George, a Federal Judge, lives in Montana; William, lives in Nevada; Mary, deceased; Eugenia, married John B. Stitzer, lives in Colorado; and Emma, married J. R. Raidor, lives at Denver, Colo.

J. J. Bourquin spent his boyhood at Tidioute, Pa., and attended the district schools there. At the age of 15 years he entered the mercantile business as a clerk, in which capacity he served for 25 years. Mr. Bourquin then went to Montana in 1890, at which time he was appointed United States Land Clerk during President Harrison's administration. Five years later he removed to West Virginia, where he became interested in a lumber business. On account of poor health Mr. Bourquin was forced to retire from business in 1905, at which time he purchased his present farm of 10 acres in Kingsville Township, where he has since lived. He specializes.in the raising of fruit and berries. The Bourquin residence contains ten rooms and is one of the attractive homes of the community.

On Jan. 8, 1884, Mr. Bourquin was married to Miss Eugenia Jannot, a daughter of Joseph'and Jane Jannot, natives of France, and early settlers of Meadville, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Jannot, deceased, were the parents of the following children: Joseph, lives in Spokane, Wash.; Charles, Julius, Eugene and Mary, all deceased; and Mrs. Bourquin, who was born July 29, 1859. Mr. and Mrs. Bourquin have a daughter, Frances Josephine, who was graduated from Allegheny College in 1917. After teaching school at Conneaut for five years, Miss Bourquin accepted a position as teacher of French and Spanish at the Erie High School, Erie, Pa.

Mr. Bourquin is a Republican and a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of Conneaut. He and his wife are well known in their community and have many friends and acquaintances.

Thomas Asunmaa, manager of the Co-operative Grocery Company of Ashtabula Harbor, is a progressive and enterprising citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born in Finland, July 15, 1874, and is the son of Herman and Susanna Asunmaa. :

Herman Asunmaa, who lives retired in Finland, has been a farmer all his life. His wife is deceased. They were the parents of the following children: Andrew, lives in Ashtabula; John and Mary, who live in Finland; Thomas, the subject of this sketch; and several other children who are deceased.

Thomas Asunmaa spent his boyhood in his native land and in 1891 came to this country and located at Ashtabula Harbor. In 1906 he became connected with the Co-operative Grocery Company as manager. This is one of the leading grocery stores of the Harbor and maintains a delivery system throughout the city.

William A. Risley is among the prosperous farmers of Kingsville Township. He was born at Conneaut, Aug. 29, 1861, and is the son of Charles and Mary (Hart) Risley.

Charles Risley was a native of eee eer and a veteran of the Civil War. When a young man he settled near Conneaut where he became a well known truck gardener. Mr. and Mrs. Risley had seven children, as follows: William A., the subject of this sketch; Philip, lives at Conneaut, married Agnes Salisbury, and they have two children, Mrs. Paul Whipple and Charles; Mildred, wife of B. D. Southwick, lives in Cleveland; Frances, married A. A. Warner, lives in Cleveland, and they have two children, Homer and Mrs. William Burke; Angeline, married Owen Sherran, deceased, and she lives in Cleveland and has one child, Katherine; Aleen, ' married William H. Gardner, lives in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and they have a daughter, Helen; and Lois, married H. E. Fenn, lives at Ashtabula, and they have two children, Verna and Norman.

William A. Risley grew up in Conneaut and attended the schools there. He owns 66 acres of well improved land in Kingsville Township and does general farming.

On Oct. 3, 1886, Mr. Risley was married to Miss Jessie Dibell, of Kingsville, Ohio, who died in 1901. To this union five children were born, as follows: Fanny and Mary, deceased; Clyde, lives at Ashtabula, is a veteran of the World War, married Martha Miller, and they have a son, William; Mrs. Harold Roath, lives in Ashtabula, has one daughter, Helen; and Nellie, married Harley Brewster, lives in Conneaut, and they have one daughter, Shirley.

On April 16, 1902, Mr. Risley 'was married to Miss Hattie Payne, a native of Harpersfield, Ohio, and a daughter of Horace and Rhoda (Bates) - Payne. Mr. Payne was born at Austinburg, Ohio, in 1839, and died at the age of 73 years. He was a veteran of the Civil War and a successful farmer. His wife, who was born at Harpersfield, in 1842, died at the age of 75 years. They reared a family of four children, three of whom are now living: Mary, the wife of F. G. Woodworth, now lives at New Castle,

Pa.; Mrs. Risley; and Mrs. Ida Wolcott, lives at Warren, Ohio. To William A. and Hattie (Payne) Risley two sons have been born: Walter, who lives home; and Edgar, a student. Before her marriage Mrs. Risley taught school for 17 years. She has been correspondent for the Ashtabula Star Beacon since 1891.

Mr. Risley and wife are Republicans. She is a member of the Methodist Church of Kingsville. The Risley family is widely known throughout Ashtabula County and they have many friends.

W. R. Mack, who is successfully engaged in the meat business at 499 Main Street, Ashtabula, was born in that city April 28, 1885, and is a son of J. S. and Clara (Wright) Mack.

J. S. Mack was born at Sheffield, Ohio, and has spent his entire life in Ashtabula County. He is a painter by trade and lives at 49 McGovern Street, Ashtabula. Mr. and Mrs. Mack have five children as follows: Homer, lives in Cleveland; Floyd E., lives at Camden, N. J., married Catherine Bonnell and they have two children, Clyde and Mildred: W. R., the subject of this sketch; Clifford, lives at Home; and Ethel Sherman, lives at 33 McGovern Street, Ashtabula.

W. R. Mack attended the public and high schools at Ashtabula. For the past five years he has owned and operated the Bunker Hill Meat Market. He carries a fine line of meats, oysters, etc., and has an extensive trade.

Mr. Mack has three children, as follows: Marion, 16 years of age, a student at Ashtabula High School; Dorothy, 13 years of age, and Gordon, 11 years of age, both students.

Mary L. Gee, who is widely known throughout Ashtabula County as a highly esteemed citizen, is a native of Pennsylvania. She was born in Erie County, and is the daughter of Richard and Louisa (Barr) McCreary. Richard McCreary, a native of Erie, Pa., was an early settler of Kingsville, having settled there in 1855. He purchased 200 acres of land and became a successful farmer. He died in 1881. Mr. and Mrs. McCreary were the parents of the following children: Harrison Lee, deceased; Elizabeth, lives at Amboy, Ohio; Mary L., the subject of this sketch; Harriet M., lives near Kingsville; Ellen, deceased; Richard, deceased.

Mary L. McCreary was reared on her father's farm and received her education in the district schools. After teaching school for several years in. Ashtabula County and Erie, Pa., one year, she was married at North Kingsville, Sept. 13, 1871, to Francis W. Gee, a native of Mahoning County, Ohio. To this union four children were born, as follows: J. M., lives in Cleveland, where he is engaged in the real estate business, married Helen Mills, of Mayville, N. Y.; S. J., a farmer, lives at North Kingsville, married Gertrude Culbertson, and they have three children; Clyde W., who died in 1919, was married to Jessie Blair; Louisa, lives at home with her mother.

Mr. Gee died March 8, 1897, and is buried at Kingsville. His wife and daughter still live on the home place of 127 acres, which is located on Lake Road, about a mile north of North Kingsville.

Joseph Napoletano, a notary public of Ashtabula Harbor, who is successfully engaged in the real estate business, is a prominent citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born in Italy, June 6, 1867, and is the son of Salvatore and Mary V. Napoletano.

Salvatore Napoletano and his wife were born in Italy, where they had always lived. He was a city clerk of his town which was a life time position; he died in 1912. His wife died in 1918. They were the parents of the following children: Alfred, lives in New York; Joseph, the subject of this sketch; Attilo, lives in Italy; Pasqualine, Esther, who also live in Italy.

Joseph Napoletano received his education in the schools of his native land and practiced law there for five years, after having served in the Italian army for five years. In March, 1894, he came to the United States and located at Ashtabula, where he was employed on the docks. Later he engaged in the insurance business for 12 years and represented the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Mr. Napoletano studied law in the law offices of Mr. Goddard at Ashtabula Harbor and during Mr. Goddard's absence in the west for 18 years, Mr. Napoletano had complete charge of his practice. He is also interested in the real estate business and does a large volume of business. His office is located at 684 Bridge Street, Ashtabula Harbor.

Mr. Napoletano was united in marriage with Miss Madeline Daniel, also a native of Italy, and to this union five children have been born, as follows: Albert, married May Pearson, and they have three sons, Charles, Frank, and Edward; Joseph; Vincenta, a teacher, married in 1921 to G. A. Simpson, lives in Detroit, Mich., and they have two children, Madeline, and Franklin; Joseph, married Iva Mitchell, and they live in Detroit, Mich., and have two children, Richard and Doris; Thomas S., married Hilda Peters; and Mary. The above children all live in Detroit, Mich.

Mr. Napoletano is a Republican, a member of the Elks lodge and the Order of Sons Italy. Mr. Napoletano has held many public offices and during the World War took an active part in the affairs of the county in promoting drives of various sorts. In 1921 he was elected township trustee of Ashtabula Township and has been chairman of the board since that date. He is a stockholder in the Marine National Bank of Ashtabula Harbor and is also connected with the Ashtabula Harbor and Peoples Building & Loan Associations. Mr. Napoletano is progressive and public spirited and one of the substantial and widely known citizens of Ashtabula Harbor.

Abram L. Sage, a well known citizen of Ashtabula, and agent for gasoline, is a leading business man of Ashtabula County. He was born at Cortland, Ohio, March 2, 1852, and is a son of James and Mary (Everett) Sage.

James Sage was killed while in service during the Civil War. Before enlisting for service he engaged in farming in Trumbull County, Ohio. Mr. Sage was a member of the 105th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was 38 years of age at the time of his death. His wife died in 1908, at the age of 79 years. Mr. and Mrs. Sage were the parents of nine children, seven of whom are now living. Abram L., the subject of this sketch, was the fourth in order of birth.

Abram L. Sage received his education in the schools at Bristolville, Ohio, and at the age of 21 years, entered the employ of the C. F. Dunbar Company, who at that time were dredging the Harbor at Ashtabula. Ten years later Mr. Sage became a foreman on the docks at Fairport, Ohio, installing machinery, and three years later went to Cleveland. There he was employed by the Andrews and Hitchcock Company for three years and for 20 years was employed by the New York Central Railroad Company. In 1916 Mr. Sage came to Ashtabula and opened a garage and salesroom on West Prospect Street. He did a general repair work and also carried a complete line of accessories and tires. Mr. Sage was associated in business with his son, Abram Leo. They are now wholesale dealers in gasoline and handle Empire High Test and Standard Oil products. Storage tanks owned by this company have a 44,000 gallon capacity, and with their stations, total 50,000 gallons. Mr. Sage owns four filling stations and delivers to Geneva and neighboring towns.

In 1882 Mr. Sage was married to Miss Mary Clark, a native of Fowler, Ohio, who died in 1917. A son, Abram Leo, married Mildred Isham, of Ashtabula, and they have two children, Warren Abram and James Abner.

In politics Mr. Sage is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Dredge Engineers Society of Chicago. Mr. Sage is among the representative citizens of his community.

Frank J. Blair, civil engineer, is among Ashtabula's enterprising and substantial business men. He was born in Ashtabula, July 26, 1873, and is the son of Henry James and Cordelia V. (Jeffords) Blair.

Henry James Blair was born in Waterford, Pa., March 31, 1831, and came to Ashtabula at the age of 12 years, when his parents died. He was one of the pioneer lake captains of this section and died Feb. 14, 1907. His wife was a native of Chautauqua, N. Y., born Nov. 28, 1837, and came to Ashtabula with her parents when she was two years of age. She died Feb. 28, 1915. After coming to this county from New York Mrs. Blair's parents settled on a farm near Rock Creek. Her father served throughout the Civil War and died in Nashville, Tenn. A sister of Henry James Blair, Sarah A., married Charles V. Bowers, lumber dealer. She is now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Blair the following children were born: Jennie A., Ashtabula; Joseph, born Oct. 25, 1868, died Sept. 27, 1904; Laverne L., married H. M. Kunkle, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Charles, barn Jan. 7, 1876, died Nov. 1, 1902; Frank J., the subject of this sketch; and John, born Aug. 29, 1871, died July 23, 1921.

Cordelia V. Blair Ry James Blair

bula for 16 years. Mr. Blair has been connected with the Pennsylvania Railroad and the New York Central Railroad in the capacity of civil engineer. He was also located in Cleveland and Youngstown at various times. He was also. connected with the Great Lakes Engineering Company and with H. E. Mann of Ashtabula. Mr. Blair is now in business for himself and handles all kinds of engineering. é

Politically, Mr. Blair is a Democrat. He holds membership in St. Peter's Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Masonic and Elks Lodges and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Blair with his sister lives at the old homestead at 531 Lake Street. He is a man esteemed throughout Ashtabula County for his reliability and industry.

Oscar E. Osborne, retired building contractor, is one of the weil known and dependable citizens of Ashtabula County. He was born in Sweden, - May 14, 1867, and is the son of P: O. and Augusta (Osberg) Osborne.

P. O. Osborne was a blacksmith in early life. After coming to this country from Sweden he engaged in carpentry and cabinet making in Milwaukee, Wis., where he died in 1904. His wife died in 1909. They were the parents of eight children, as follows: Charles, deceased; John, lives in Milwaukee, Wis.; Edward, deceased; Oscar E., the subject of this sketch; Hilda, the widow of H. Swanson, lives at Milwaukee, Wis.; Gus, deceased; Fred, lives in Milwaukee; and Delmer, died in infancy.

Oscar E. Osborne was reared and educated in his native land and in 1886 came to the United States and located in Milwaukee, where he worked at his trade as mason. Three years later he came to Ashtabula and engaged in the building business, in which he met with marked success. For the past ten years Mr. Osborne has lived retired at 34 Bond Strect. Each winter is spent at Daytona Beach, Florida, where Mr. Osborne owns a $17,000 home. He constructed many of the well known buildings in Ashtabula, including the J. T. Smith building, the Ashtabula library, the J. L. Wilson building, the Ashtabula old Telephone Exchange, the Ducro building, and the Kunkle building at the Harbor, numerous school buildings and the receiving vault in Chestnut Grove Cemetery.

On Aug. 18, 1891, Mr. Osborne was married at Ashtabula Harbor to Miss Gertrude Wright, a native of Plymouth, Ohio, born Aug. 8, 1869, and the daughter og William O. and Nancy (Bartram) Wright. Mr. Wright was a native of Lake County, Ohio, born in 1839. He wasia farmer and later in life conducted a general store at Carson, Ohio. He died Oct. 4, 1911, and his wife, who was born in 1844, died Aug. 15, 1915. They were the parents of four children: George E., born Sept. 8, 1863, died in 1906; Lyman O., a grocer, at 389 Main Street, Ashtabula; Florence D., born Feb. 24, 1887, lives with subject; and Mrs. Osborne. Mr. and Mrs. Osborne have a son, R. L., who was born April 24, 1893. He was a graduate of the Ashtabula high school. While a student in Wooster College he enlisted during the World War in Company C, 34th Ohio Engineers, and served overseas throughout the war. At the time of his discharge he held the rank of sergeant of the engineering corps. Mr. Osborne is engaged in the battery business in Ashtabula. On April 5, 1919, he was married to Miss Ruth McClelland, of Wooster, Ohio. He and his wife are members of the First Presbyterian Church.

Oscar Osborne is a Republican and a member of the Congregational Church. He belongs to the Masonic lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mrs. Osborne is past president of the Ohio Rebekah Assembly and for many years has taken an active interest in its affairs. Mr. and Mrs. Osborne have an extensive acquaintance in Ashtabula County and are highly esteemed.

Mike Laurello, grocer, is an enterprising young business man of Ashtabula Harbor. He was born in Italy, May 23, 1892, and is a son of John and Jane Laurello.

John Laurello came to this country from Italy in 1921. He was a stone mason by trade and is now retired. There were seven children in the Laurello family as follows: Mike, the subject of this sketch; Charles, Pascolina, Louise, Anna, Cosma, and Adeline, all residents of Ashtabula.

Mike Laurello spent his boyhood in his native land and attended the schools there. At the age of 18 years he came to the United States and located in Ashtabula, where he followed his trade as a stone mason. Mr. Laurello has been engaged in the grocery business at 235 West Street since 1923.

Mr. Laurello was married to Miss Mary Steffans of Ashtabula and to this union four children have been born: John, Nicholas, Harry and Olanda.

Asa Brassington, who conducts a general merchandise store in Saybrook Township, is a member of a well known pioneer family of Ashtabula County. He was born at Saybrook, Ohio, in 1850, and is the son of John and Eliza (Brondage) Brassington.

John Brassington was a native of New York, as was also his wife. They were married there in 1833 and five years later came to Ashtabula County and located on a farm on North Ridge Road near Saybrook. He was a wool buyer and died in July, 1901, at the age of 93 years. His wife died Oct. 25, 1900, at the age of 87 years. Mr. and Mrs. Brassington were the parents of 12 children; four of whom are now. living: Frank, a retired hardware merchant, lives in Shaker Heights, Ohio; Asa, the subject of this sketch; Mary Savage, lives in Detroit, Mich.; and James W., engaged in the real estate business in Cleveland.

Asa Brassington was educated in the schools of Saybrook and engaged in farming and stock raising until about five years ago, at which time he established his present business.

Mr. Brassington was married on December 27, 1917, to Miss Addie M. Preston, a native of Michigan, born Oct. 11, 1872, and the daughter of Levi R. and Lucinda O'Brien Preston. Mr. Preston was born in Sandusky County, Ohio, Dec. 24, 1849. His wife died Feb. 15, 1915. Two sons, Glen Y. and Elton, live in Michigan. Mr. Brassington married the first time to Helen M. Brown and to this union three children were born, as follows: Charles E., lives in Toledo, Ohio, married Nettie Johnson, and they have one child, Dorothy; Ray, deceased; and Mrs. Gertrude Lewis, lives in Detroit, Mich., and had one child, Helen, now deceased.

W. W. Cosner, a prosperous farmer and stockman of Kingsville Township, and the owner of 88 acres of good farm land, was born in West Virginia, Jan. 6, 1856, and is the son of Henry and Nancy (Roby) Cosner.

Henry Cosner was a native of Grant County, W. Va., and a farmer during his entire life. He died in 1886 and his wife died in 1920. They were the parents of ten children, five of whom are now living, as follows: Thomas, a farmer, lives in West Virginia; Otto, also a farmer, lives in

West Virginia; Hesther, married Elihu Sanders, lives in West Virginia; Aldina, married George Bennett, lives in West Virginia; and W. W., the subject of this sketch.

W. W. Cosner spent his boyhood on his father's farm and attended the district schools. He owned 123 acres of land in his native state and in 1906 sold his interests and came to Ashtabula County and located on his present farm in Kingsville Township. The place is well improved.

Mr. Cosner was married to Miss Rebecca Keith, deceased. To this union three children were born: Rosa Bell, wife of George Parks, New York state; Charles W., lives in Pennsylvania; and Martha Ann, the wife of Earl Gardner. Mr. Cosner was married the second time to Miss Sefrona C. Johnson, and to this union two children were born, as follows: Clareta, married Ed Bisby, a linesman, lives in Kingsville; Hettie, lives at home.

Marshall Carter Wright, who now lives retired in Saybrook Township, is a member of a well known pioneer family of Ashtabula County. He was born at Saybrook, June 26, 1850, and is the son of Moses and Caroline (Sweet) Wright.

The Wright family came to Ashtabula County from Vermont in 1815 and settled on a farm on South Ridge Road, near Saybrook. Moses Wright was the son of Jesse N. Wright, who died at Saybrook, at the age of 82 years. He was a prosperous farmer, as was also his son Moses. The latter died in 1897, and his wife, a native of Ashtabula, died at the age of 59 years. They were the parents of the following children: Henry, deceased; Marshall Carter, the subject of this sketch; Edward, lives in Saybrook Township; Charles, deceased; Jesse N., lives in Saybrook Township; Adelaide, deceased, was the wife of Lewis Hemminger; and Ruth E., lives at Saybrook.

Marshall Carter Wright was reared on his father's farm and attended the schools of Saybrook. When a young man he engaged in farming and later became interested in the basket making industry, in which he was successfully engaged until 1908. Mr. Wright's factories were located in Ashtabula and New York. Since the time of his retirement he has lived on his farm of six acres on North Ridge Road between Ashtabula and Saybrook.

On Jan. 29, 1879, Mr. Wright was united in marriage with Miss Eliza M. Crook, a native of Watertown, N. Y., and the daughter of John and Mary Ann (Rose) Crook, natives of England who settled in Ashtabula County in 1876. Mr. Crook died in 1886 and his wife died in 1898. They were the parents of the following children: Rebecca, Benjamin, Joseph, Anna, Helen and John, all deceased; Mrs. Wright; and Martha, deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Wright three children were born: Maud B., born Feb. 1, 1880, the widow of John V. Haskell, and she has two children, Maud Lois and David L., lives at Alliance, Ohio; Grace M., born in 1885, married John Brocklehurst, lives in Florida, and they have four children, Clinton, Bruce, Marion and Helen; and Howard M., born Aug. 25, 1896, married Helen Okerson, and they have two children, Iona and James M. Howard Wright is a graduate of Ashtabula High School and was a veteran of the World War.

Mr. Wright is a Republican and has served as township assessor for 20 years, and is a member of the school board. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is one of the substantial citizens of his community.

W. A. Gran, who is the owner of one of Ashtabula County's most modern stock farms, was born in Finland, Dec. 30, 1862, and is a son of Frank W. and Mary (Tornikoski) Gran.

At the age of 29 years W. A. Gran came to this country and settled at Ashtabula Harbor, where he worked at his trade as a carpenter for two years. He then purchased 50 acres of land on the Austinburg road in Saybrook Township, where he now lives. He has added to his land holdings and is now the owner of 186 acres of good farm land. The place is well improved with all modern appliances. Myr. Gran specializes in dairy farming and has 30 cows. There is also a complete machine shop on the Gran farm, and two large tractors.

On April 20, 1886, Mr. Gran was married in Finland to Miss Sophia Berg, who was born Aug. 22, 1858. To this union eight children have been born, as follows: Emily Sophia; Mrs. Nestor Mackey, lives at Saybrook; Mrs. W. R. Beckwith, lives at home, and has a daughter Catherine Emily; William T., lives at Saybrook, married Ilene Cummings, and they have two children, William T. Jr., and Robert E.; Edward L., married

Thelma Lintella, lives in Ashtabula, and they have one son, Edward L. Jr.; John B., at home; Ida and Dora, both of whom died in infancy. William T. Gran is a veteran of the World War, having served with the 331st Ohio Infantry.

Mr. Gran is a Republican and a member of the Lutheran Church. He is well known throughout the county, where he is highly esteemed as a man of progress, industry and initiative.

Emory C. House, a successful and enterprising farmer of Saybrook Township, is a native of Ashtabula County. He was born on a farm in Morgan Township, June 8, 1869, and is a son of Earl and Elmira (Roth) House.

Earl House was born at Lenox, Ohio, in 1848. He was a veteran of the Civil War and a leading farmer and stockman of Morgan Township for many years. In 1918 he sold his farm and removed to Saybrook, where he died two years later. His wife, who was born in Ohio, now lives at Austinburg, with her daughter and is 73 years of age. Mr. and Mrs. House had four children, as follows: Emory C., the subject of this sketch; Lettie Bissell, lives near Austinburg, Ohio; Edgar L., lives at Conneaut; and Hattie Cowlter, lives at Austinburg, with her mother.

Emory C. House grew to manhood on his father's farm in Morgan Township and was educated in the district schools there. In 1900 he purchased his first farm of 50 acres in Saybrook Township and in 1919 purchased the adjoining farm of 55 acres which was owned by J. J. Willey. He specializes in dairy farming and has a well improved farm.

Mr. House was married first to Miss Winifred Baldwin, and to this union two children were born: Ear] and Mildred, both deceased. On March 23, 1904, Mr. House was married to Miss Etta Calloway, a native of Austinburg, Ohio, and a daughter of Carmi and Lestina (Strong) Calloway, natives of Ohio, both now deceased. Mr. Calloway died in 1920 at the age of 78 years and his wife died in 1908. They were the parents of the following children: Edward and Mary, deceased; Ella Haywood, lives at Madison, Ohio; Stella Lapham, lives at Unionville, Ohio; Kate Duncan, deceased; Adelbert, lives in Plymouth Township, Ashtabula County; Albert, lives at Austinburg, Ohio; Frank, lives at Austinburg; Susie Root, lives at Austinburg; Mrs. House; Alice Harris, lives at Madison, Ohio; Cora Spring, lives at Geneva, Ohio; Arthur, lives at Unionville, Ohio;

EK. E. Welton, a substantial and well known farmer of Saybrook Township, is a member of one of Ashtabula County's oldest families. He was born at Harpersfield, Ohio, Nov. 22, 1849, and is the son of Nathan and Chrinthia (Griffin) Welton.

Truman N. Welton, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a native of Connecticut, and among the earliest settlers of Austinburg. He was a teacher for many years and later purchased a farm of 100 acres in Saybrook Township, where he engaged in dairy farming. His son, Nathan, was born in Ashtabula and became one of the farmers and stockmen of the county. He died at the age of 65 years and his wife died at the age of 57 years. They were the parents of five children, two of whom are now living: E. E., the subject of this sketch; and Arthur, who lives in Ashtabula.

E. E. Welton grew up on his father's farm and attended the schools of Austinburg. When a young man he entered the employ of the New York Central Railroad as a switch tender, where he remained until 1908, at which time he purchased his present farm. At one time Mr. Welton owned 112 acres, 40 of which were later sold to his son-in-law, Harry Bolte.

'Mr. Welton was married first to Miss Fannie Starkweather, deceased. She met her death while preparing breakfast for her family, when her clothing was ignited and she died from burns. Mr. and Mrs. Welton were the parents of five children: Edward, who died in 1917; Ernest, lives at Akron, Ohio; Robert, Ashtabula; George, lives at Saybrook; and Mrs. Pearl Parker, lives at Kenmore, Ohio. On March 24, 1886, Mr. Welton was married to Miss Catherine Frambaugh, a native of Liverpool, Ohio, and the daughter of Leobold and Margaret (Mott) Frambaugh, both deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Frombaugh the following children were born: Margaret Offenburg, lives at Lenox, Ohio; Lena Neff, Helen Walton, and Jacob, all deceased; Henry, lives at Akron, Ohio; Anna Hill, Mary Walton, Theodore, George, and Charles, all deceased; and Mrs. Welton. To E. E. and Catherine (Frombaugh) Welton, ten children were born, as follows: Frederick, born Jan. 16, 1886, lives at Ashtabula; Willard, born Nov. 16,

1888, lives at Ashtabula; Lewellyn, born May 2, 1890, lives at East Ashtabula; Harry, born Sept. 4, 1892, died at the age of 18 years; Cora, born July 23, 1894, wife of C. J. Lockwood, Madison, Ohio; Harvey, born July 26, 1896, a veteran of the World War, lives at home; Elsie, born Aug. 12, 1898, wife of Harry Bolte, Ashtabula; Bernice, born Oct. 10, 1902, wife of Willis Mosier, Garretsville, Ohio; Earl, born eee 11, 1907, and Lillian, born Jan. 4, 1909, both at home. Mr. Welton is one of the highly esteemed men of his community.

Edward Bjerstedt, owner and proprietor of the Ashtabula Bakery, is a successful and highly esteemed business man of Ashtabula. He was born in Sweden, July 7, 1868, and is the son of Per and Martha (Rasmusson) Bjerstedt.

Per Bjerstedt and his wife, who now live retired in Sweden, are the parents of the following children: Edward, the subject of this sketch; Anton, a sketch of whom appears in this volume, lives at Conneaut, Ohio; Bror, employed by his brother, Edward; and several other children who live in Sweden.

Edward Bjerstedt was reared and educated in Sweden and in 1888 came to this country and located in New Hampshire, later removing to - Wilcox, Pa. In 1894 he came to Ashtabula, and the following year engaged in the bakery business on Bridge Street. In 1901 Mr. Bjerstedt built the building at 31 Lake Street, where he is now located. The Ashtabula Bakery ranks among the finest bakeries in the county and during his many years of business here, Mr. Bjerstedt has established an excellent trade. He employs 30 people and operates six trucks throughout Ashtabula and the surrounding towns. Mr. Bjerstedt lives at 18 Fairfield Avenue, where he owns an attractive home of 11 rooms. He also owns a well improved farm of 20 acres north of Ashtabula on the Ridge Road.

On Oct. 16, 1897, Mr. Bjerstedt was united in marriage with Miss Mary McCarty, of Ashtabula, born Feb. 1, 1879, and the daughter of Dennis and Harriet (Poole) McCarty, both deceased. Mr. McCarty, a native of Ireland, died at Ashtabula in 1898 at the age of 54 years. His wife, who was born at Ripley, N. Y., died in 1888 at the age of 38 years.

the Genesee River. He was born April 22, 1811, and in February, 1873, came to Ashtabula County and settled at Conneaut, where he was engaged in the mercantile business with J. A. Caldwell for many years. Mr. Poole was Mrs. Bjerstedt's maternal grandfather and a leading pioneer of Ashtabula County.

To Edward and Mary (McCarty) Bjerstedt three children were born, as follows: Harriet, born Sept. 25, 1898, married Dr. H. K. Porter, a dentist at 8 Center Street, Ashtabula; Edward, born Nov. 14, 1899, a graduate of Ashtabula High School, was married Oct. 4, 1924 to Dorothy Durkee, now lives in Amboy, Ohio; and Robert, born June 2, 1910, lives at home.

Politically, Mr. Bjerstedt is a Republican. He and his children are members of the Lutheran church, and he belongs to the Elks, the Exchange Club and the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Bjerstedt is held in high regard throughout the community and is an excellent citizen.

J. Wallace Lapham, a leading farmer and stockman of Saybrook Township, and a member of one of Ashtabula County's oldest families, was born in Lake County, Ohio, March 14, 1863. He is a son of Jacob and Harriet (Scribner) Lapham.

Jacob Lapham was born in Duchess County, N. Y., and became one of the prominent farmers and stockmen of his time. His father and two uncles came to Ohio from Connecticut many years ago, making the trip on foot. Mr. Lapham died June 24, 1900, at the age of 96 years, and his wife died in 1877, at the age of 48 years. They were the parents of five children: Alonzo, deceased, and his widow, Stella Calloway Lapham, lives at Unionville, Ohio; Marlin, married Almeda McClelland, both deceased; Catherine J. Smith, deceased; Evelyn, deceased, was the wife of William Hazen; and J. Wallace, the subject of this sketch.

J. Wallace Lapham was reared and educated at Geneva, Ohio. He began his. career as a farm hand and in 1910 purchased his present farm of 50 acres which is located on the Austinburg road in Saybrook Township. Mr. Lapham does general farming and dairying.

On Jan. 2, 1899, Mr. Lapham was united in marriage at Andover, Ohio, with Miss Julia Baldwin, a native of Saybrook Township, and the daughter of John and Eliza (Brown) Baldwin. Mr. Baldwin was born at Gustavus, Ohio, and died at the age of 46 years, in 1886. His wife, who was born at Ashtabula Harbor, died in 1911, at the age of 73. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin were the parents of the following children: Mrs. Ellen Bennett, lives at Saybrook; Truman B., lives at Ashtabula Harbor; Elizabeth, married Albert E. Long, lives at Dover, Ohio; Mildred, married R. A. Barber, lives at Conneaut, Ohio; Anna Eliza, lives in Ashtabula; Sarah, married F. A. Miller, lives in Ashtabula, and Mrs. Lapham. Mr. and Mrs. Lapham have one son, Leslie, who was born April 22, 1908. He is a student at Ashtabula High School.

In politics Mr. Lapham is identified with the Republican party. Leslie and his mother are members of the Congregational Church of Austinburg and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Geneva. He is one of the progressive and substantial citizens of the county.

Ernest F. March, a well known citizen of Ashtabula County, who is successfully engaged in farming and stock raising in Saybrook Township, was born in Tripoli, Syria, May 9, 1887. He is a son of William and Jennie (Hill) March.

William March was born in Massachusetts, as was also his wife. After their marriage they went to Tripoli as missionaries but later re+ turned to this country. Mr. and Mrs. March are the parents of the following children: Anna, died in infancy; Arthur W., a professor of science, biology and astronomy in Hangchow Christian College, China; Elizabeth H. Freidinger, lives in Syria, where her husband is a Presbyterian minister; Ernest F., the subject of this sketch; Amy, wife of Dr. Douglas Forman, lives at Alabad, India, where her husband is a physician; Alice Nelson Martin, lives at Ashland, Ohio; and Harold M., a teacher of French in Yale University, New Haven, Conn.

Ernest F. March received his education in the public schools of Wooster, Ohio, and was graduated from the schools there in 1907. In 1912 he received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Miami College, and later took graduate work at Ohio State University in agriculture. In November, » 1913, Mr. March purchased his present farm of 100 acres in Saybrook Township. He is a fruit farmer and also raises poultry.

Mr. March was married to Miss Angie Richmond, a native of Ashtabula, and a daughter of Sylvester and Ella (Wyman) Richmond. Mr. Richmond died July 25, 1887, and his wife is also deceased. Mrs. March

Mr. March is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and belongs to the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He is one of Ashtabula County's broad-minded and public-spirited citizens.

Howard S. Foote, a prominent business man of Ashtabula, engaged in the insurance business, is a member of one of Ohio's honored pioneer families. He was born in Ashtabula County, and is the son of Lauren B. and Cornelia (Ballard) Foote.

Lauren B. Foote was born at Torrington, Conn., in 1802, and came to Trumbull, Ashtabula County, in 1830. He owned the first grist mill in that section and also operated a woolen mill. In later life Mr. Foote became a prominent building contractor and built Grand River Institute. He died at the age of 80 years and is buried at Austinburg. Mr. Foote was married the first time to Miss Abagail Moses, and to this union three children were born: Irenus, Sarah and Derrow, all deceased. By his second marriage to Cornelia Ballard, four children were born, as follows: Mrs. Ellen VanLevnun, lives at Lime Spring, Iowa; Howard S., the subject of this sketch; Charles E., lives in lowa; and Mrs. Abbie Metcalf, lives in Ashtabula.

Howard S. Foote was graduated from Grand River Institute and the State Normal School. After serving as superintendent of schools in Ashtabula, Geneva and Lake counties for 35 years, Mr. Foote engaged in the insurance business in 1918. He represents the Midland Life Insurance Company. His office is located on Main Street, Ashtabula, Ohio.

In 1886 Mr. Foote was married to Miss Abbie Tourgee, a native of Andover, Ohio, born in 1865. She died in 1920. To Mr. and Mrs. Foote two sons were born: Dr. Paul D., a scientist, is a graduate of Western Reserve University, Nebraska University; and the University of Minnesota, now practicing his profession in the Bureau of Standards, Washington, D. C.; and Ralph L., railroad inspector for the Pennsylvania Railway, lives at Ashtabula, married Winifred Starkweather. Doctor Foote was married to Miss Bernice Foote, who was graduated in his class at the University of Minnesota.

Mr. Foote is a Republican, a member of the Congregational Church, and belongs to the Masonic lodge. He is a man of progressive ideas in his business and a citizen of whom the community is proud.

J. M. Amsden, general superintendent of the Ohio & Western Pennsylvania Dock Company at Ashtabula, is a representative citizen of his community. He was born in Ashtabula, Oct. 5, 1876, and is a son of Austin O. and Mary (Dickinson) Amsden.

Austin O. Amsden was born in Vermont and came to Ashtabula in 1860. He clerked in the jewelry store of Mr. Dickinson, in whose employ he remained for many years. He died in 1914 at the age of 74 years and his wife, who was born at New Haven, Conn., died in December, 1921, at the age of 84 years. Mr. and Mrs. Amsden celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1909. They were the parents of the following children: Fred, who died at the age of 16 years; Mrs. Elizabeth Sawyer, lives in New York city; Lewis A., retired, lives in Ashtabula; Arthur D., lives in Pasadena, Cal.; Dr. George S., a prominent nerve specialist of Albany, N. Y., and Jay M., the subject of this sketch.

Jay M. Amsden received his education in the public and high schools of Ashtabula and at the age of 16 years entered the employ of the M. A. Hanna Company. In 1903 Mr. Amsden was made superintendent and on July 22, 1924, was made general superintendent of the company, including the lower lake docks. ;

In 1900 Mr. Amsden was married to Miss Laura Gillette, of Indianapolis, and the daughter of Oscar Gillette. Mr. and Mrs. Amsden have one child, Jane, born in 1907.

Mr. Amsden is a Republican. He is a member of the Reformed Episcopal Church of Ashtabula and a 32nd degree Mason. He has served as president of the Chamber of Commerce and as president of the city council. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of Ashtabula. Mr. Amsden is well and favorably known in Ashtabula and takes an active interest in the affairs of his community.

With the exception of short periods, when the family home was located in Geneva, Ohio, and Washington, D. C., he has resided in Conneaut continuously. The beginning of his education was in the old "Academy" building on Main Street and he continued through the public schools, graduating from Conneaut High School in the class of 1903.

with newspaper work and to. enjoy the following of the printing and publishing business up to the present writing. About as soon as he was able to shoulder a sack of newspapers and face the storms, he became a carrier boy on the daily Evening News, P. E. Bissell's second newspaper undertaking in Conneaut. He continued this until he was old enough to assume the responsibilities of city circulator, which position he held until Mr. Bissell sold his newspaper property to the first The Conneaut Printing Co.

Upon graduating from school in 1903, Mr. Putnam again joined the Evening News force, this time as a cub reporter under Editor V. V. MeNitt. He gradually worked up through the editorial organization and continued on after the birth, Jan. 1, 1907, of the News-Herald, the result of the consolidation of the Conneaut Evening News and the Conneaut Post- Herald. In 1909 he took a heavy financial interest in the company and became editor and general manager' which position he has held to date. ~

This subject is a descendant of John Putnam, who, with three sons, emigrated from England to the colony of Massachusetts in the seventeenth century. He follows along the same branch of the family as General Israel Putnam and General Rufus Putnam, both of Revolutionary War fame, and the latter the founder of Marietta, Ohio. He comes directly, however, from the branch of Captain Andrew Putnam who moved from Massachusetts to Chautauqua County, N. Y., in 1817.

In 1919 he was united in marriage to Charlotte E. Bartlett Laughlin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ellery C. Bartlett, of New York city. Mrs. Putnam is a descendant of the Bartlett family of early. Puritan history, who came to this country from England in 1634. She is descended from Josiah Bartlett, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Harry A. Gleason, the well known and efficient secretary and treasurer of The Citizens Banking & Trust Company of Conneaut, was born at Meadville, Pa., Oct. 4, 1886, and is the son of William B. and Gertrude R. (Hunt) Gleason.

William B. Gleason brought his family to Ohio from Pennsylvania in 1889 and settled on a farm near Conneaut. He died in 1908 and his wife now lives in Conneaut. They were the parents of three children: Harry A., the subject of this sketch; Dana Elizabeth, lives in Conneaut;

Harry A. Gleason received his education in the public and high schools of Conneaut and his first business connection was as stenographer with the Cleveland Trust Company of Willoughby, Ohio. After one year he entered the employ of the Conneaut Leather Company and in 1908 became associated with the B. F. Goodrich Company at Akron, Ohio. In November, 1910, Mr. Gleason accepted the position as assistant treasurer of The Citizens Banking & Trust Company of Conneaut, where he remained until Dec. 26, 1913. He then went to Cleveland where he acted as secretary to John Sherwin, president of the First National Bank there. In 1915 he returned to Conneaut to accept the position as secretary and treasurer of The Citizens Banking & Trust.Company.

In 1913 Mr. Gleason was married to Miss Bernice D. Chapman, a native of Conneaut and a daughter of George and Jennie (Daugherty) Chapman, both of whom are now deceased. Mr. Chapman was a prominent real estate man of Conneaut for many years. There were four children in the Chapman family: Ruth, married Charles J. Dow, lives at Conneaut; Mrs. Gleason; May H., married Mark L. Weil, lives in California; and Louis, who also lives in California. To Mr. and Mrs. Gleason have been born three children, Harry Chapman, George J., and Mary Alice.

Mr. Gleason is a Republican and is identified with the Chamber of Commerce and other civic organizations. He also belongs to the Elks lodge. The Gleason family are members of the Baptist Church, and are favorably known in Ashtabula County.

The Citizens Banking & Trust Company was organized in 1907, with the following officers: F. E. Gordon, president, and Charles R. Dodge, secretary and treasurer. The first directors were: F. E. Gordon, B. HE. Thayer, C. H. Simonds, C. W. DeVoe, F. E. Brydle, E. A. Titus, F. L. Whitmore, C. W. Pelton, and Charles R. Dodge. The present officers of the bank are: C. Henry Simonds, president; C. L. Whitney, vice-president; T. C. Herrick, vice-president; H. G. Kingdom, vice-president and trust officer ; H. A. Gleason, secretary and treasurer; K. W. Cowden, assistant treasurer; and William C. Whitney, assistant secretary. The directors are: C. Henry Simonds, E. A. Titus, Theodore C. Herrick, Harry G. Kingdom, W. Sprague, F. A. Jones, Charles L. Whitney, U. E. Kanavel, John Boyink, C. V. Carr, William Fortune, F. H. Heasman, M. R. Smith, and H. A. Gleason.

The Citizens Banking & Trust Company has a capital stock of $125,- 000.00 and a surplus of $32,750.00. Itis one of the leading banking institutions in Ashtabula County, and weil merits the success that has been as achievement.

Duff Brace, mayor of Conneaut, is a highly esteemed and prominent citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born in Crawford County, Pa., March 18, 1882, and is the son of Alfred J. and Sarah J. (Donahue) Brace.

Alfred J. Brace, who now lives retired in Conneaut, was a native of Toledo, Ohio. In early life he went to Pennsylvania with his parents, where he remained until 1898. At that time he came with his family to Conneaut, where he has since lived. Mr. Brace is a Democrat. His wife is a native of Crawford County, Pa. To Mr. and Mrs. Brace six children were born: E. G., lives at Conneaut Harbor; Duff, the subject of this sketch; Margaret A., married Lee Dulick, a well known business man of Conneaut; Perry G., an engineer on the Pennsylvania Railroad, lives at Ashtabula; Mark S., captain on the Salt Waters, lives at Conneaut; and Nellie, married Albert Hahn, an engineer on the Nickel Plate Railroad, lives at Conneaut.

Duff Brace received his education in the public schools of Erie County, Pa., after which he entered the employ of the Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad as yard master. He was in the employ of this company for 23 years. Since 1898 Mr. Brace has lived in Conneaut, where he is now serving his fourth term as mayor.

On March 28, 1908, Mr. Brace was married to Miss Amelia May Holden, who was born in Ashtabula County, Feb. 2, 1881, the daughter of Henry and Mary Ann (Rhoda) Holden, the former a native of Erie County, Pa., and the latter of England. Mr. Holden was among the early settlers of Ohio and during the Civil War served with an Ohio regiment. He died at East Springfield, Ohio. His wife resides in Conneaut. They were the parents of the following children: Mattie, the widow of Vern Phelps, lives at Conneaut; Dora, married Otis Leonard, lives in Erie County, Pa.; Clinton, who served as a Colonel during the World War, now engaged in the hotel business at Newark, N. J.; Clayton, twin brother of Clinton, hotel keeper at Charles City, Iowa; Ross, lives at Conneaut; Charles, lives at Conneaut; and Mrs. Brace. To Duff and Amelia May (Holden) Brace, five children have been born: John A., born Dec. 15, 1904; Lucille H., born June 28, 1906; Duff Gordon, born April 2, 1914; Mark

Stanley, born April 10, 1916; and Perry Douglas, born Aug. 16, 1919. John A. Brace, who is greatly interested in football, is a igi as of the Ashtabula team which has won the Wentling cup.

Alva W. Rogers, a successful business man of Ashtabula, engaged in the transfer business, is a member of one of Ohio's prominent pioneer families. He was born at Lenox, Ohio, Jan. 5, 1850, and is the son of William

In 1830 William E. Rogers came to Ashtabula County from his native state, Connecticut. He followed general farming during his life and met with success. Mr. Rogers died in 1908 and his wife died in 1880. They were the parents of the following children: Lucy, died at the age of 13

Alva W. Rogers spent his boyhood on his father's farm and received his education in the district schools. At the age of 24 years he removed to Ashtabula and engaged in the transfer business, operating one wagon. Horse drawn street cars were being used at that time in Ashtabula and Mr. Rogers relates many interesting stories of early day life in the county. He has lived in the same house since 1884. Mr. Rogers carries on a large volume of business and is known as an enterprising and progressive citizen of his community.

On April 5, 1882, Mr. Rogers was married to Miss Lillian Webster, a native of Kingsville, Ohio, and the daughter of Lyman and Anna (Hart) Webster, natives of England and early settlers of Massachusetts and later munity and was well known. To Alva W. and Lillian (Webster) Rogers four children were born, as follows: Fred, who was killed in an accident in 1907; Effie, married E. F. Clark, lives at Jefferson, and they have seven children, Lillian, Jeanette, Luella, Robert, Dorothy, James and Norman; and Lawrence, married Pearl Sims, lives in Ashtabula, and they have one

Mr. And Mrs. Alva W. Rogers

B. L. Palmer, city auditor of Conneaut, is among the prominent and influential citizens of Ashtabula County. He was born in Erie County, Pa., July 20, 1878, and is the son of Charles C. and Mary (Doty) Palmer.

Charles C. Palmer was a native of Erie County, Pa., as also was his wife. They were early settlers of Ohio, locating at Conneaut, where Mr. Palmer worked at his trade as millwright. He was a Republican and a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer, now deceased, were the parents of four children: B. L., the subject of this sketch; George H., who died at the age of 12 years; Pearl A., married William Fuller, and lives-at Albion, Pa.; and Fred J., who died at the age of two years.

B. L. Palmer received his education in the public schools of Bemus Point, N. Y. He learned the machinist trade and was employed by the Dick Company of Conneaut for 10 years as a stationary engineer. Mr. Palmer was also in the employ of the Prudential Insurance Company for several years. He has served as city auditor of Conneaut for two terms.

On Nov. 7, 1901, Mr. Palmer was married to Miss Lena R. Fowler, a _ native of New York, born March 9, 1881, and the daughter of Walter and: Ella J. (Barker) Fowler, natives of New York. Mr. Fowler is deceased and his wife lives at Portland, N. Y. They had two children: Sarah, married J. M. Paul, and died in December, 1923; and Mrs. Palmer. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer have no children.

In politics Mr. Palmer is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Christian Church and has been superintendent of the Sunday school for eight years. He is past grand master of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Palmer was a member of the volunteer fire department of Conneaut for 14 years. He is one of the dependable and substantial citizens of Conneaut.

Dr. William H. Leet. Since the beginning. of his professional life in 1898, Dr. William H. Leet has evinced eminent fitness for his calling, and in no small degree has won for himself the confidence and support of the people of Conneaut and vicinity. Dr. Leet was born at Greenville, Pa., in 1870, and is the son of Dr. Frederick H. and Sarah (Waldron) Leet.

Dr. Frederick H. Leet was born in Beaver County, Pa. He was graduated from Medical Department of Western Reserve University in 1857 and was among the prominent physicians and surgeons of his time. He served throughout the Civil War with the 57th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry as a surgeon and after being disabled was honorably discharged. Dr. Leet practiced his profession for many years at Greenville, Pa., and died in 1907. His wife died in 1900. They were the parents of four children: Irene, married Rev. Albert J. Reichert, lives at Lancaster, Pa.; Dr. William H., the subject of this sketch; Susan A., and Clara B., high school teachers, living in Minneapolis.

Dr. William H. Leet was educated in the public schools of Greenville, Pa., and Thiel College in Greenville, Pa., and was graduated from the medical department of Western Reserve University at Cleveland in 1895. During the World War he was commissioned a captain in the medical corps and was later promoted to lieutenant colonel. He served for 26 months, a year of which was spent in France.

In May, 1899, Dr. Leet was united in marriage with Miss Mary Garrett Shoemaker, a native of Chester, Pa., and a daughter of William T. and Mary (Sines) Shoemaker, natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Shoemaker, who was engaged in the real estate business during his life, died in 1921. He was also a veteran of the Civil War. His wife lives with her daughter, Mrs. Leet. A son, William A. Shoemaker, is deceased. To Dr. and Mrs. Leet have been born two children: Oliver Dickinson, born in 1901, and Mary E., born in 1908.

Dr. Leet is a Republican. He has served as mayor of Conneaut for one term and has served as member of the school board. He is a member of the Congregational Church and belongs to the Masonic and Elks lodges.

H. G. Kingdom, a prominent attorney of Conneaut and vice-president of the Citizens Banking & Trust Company, is a native of Ohio. He was born in Trumbull County, in 1876, and is the son of George and Hattie (Chase) Kingdom.

George Kingdom was born in England and in 1848 came to Niagara Falls, on the Canadian side, where he remained one year. He then came to Ohio, locating at Orwell, where he owned and operated a cheese factory for many years. He and his wife now live retired at Orwell. They were the parents of three children: H. G., the subject of this sketch; and Maud L. and Blaine C., both deceased.

H. G. Kingdom received his education in the public schools and studied law with Attorney Fisher and with C. H. Sargent, at Jefferson, where he later served as deputy clerk of court for three years. On June 15, 1902, he was admitted to the bar and since March 1, 1903, has practiced law continuously at Conneaut. He served as city attorney for two years.

In 1897 Mr. Kingdom was married to Miss Bertha A. Durkee, a native of Monroe Township, Ashtabula County, and a daughter of Charles C. and Emily Durkee. The Durkee family settled in Ohio in 1816 and Solomon Durkee, great-grandfather of Mrs. Kingdom, served in the American Army during the Revolutionary War. Mrs. Kingdom was one of the founders of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Conneaut. To Mr. and Mrs. Charles C. Durkee four children were born: Milan C., a farmer, lives in Conneaut Township, Ashtabula County; Zela D., married Fred Brydle, deceased; and she lives near Conneaut; Fred, Conneaut Township, and Mrs. Kingdom. Mr. Durkee lives with his daughter Mrs. Brydle. His wife died in 1900. To Mr. and Mrs. Kingdom two sons have been born: George D., born in September, 1903, studying law at Ohio State University ; and Howard C., born March 27, 1914.

Mr. Kingdom was instrumental in obtaining the Carnegie Public Library for Conneaut, and is the only member left of the original trustees. One of Mr. Kingdom's pastimes, which he greatly enjoys, is hunting in Canada, and during the season of 1923 he killed a moose. Mr. Kingdom is a Republican and he and his family are members of the Congregational Church. He is well and favorably known throughout the county.

George T. Arthur, who is successfully engaged in the hardware business in Conneaut, was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1869, and is the son of Charles and Louise (Traver) Arthur.

Charles Arthur and his wife, natives of Ontario, Canada, are now deceased. Mrs. Arthur died in Canada in 1870 and Mr. Arthur died at Conneaut in 1908. George T., the subject of this sketch, was their only child.

George T. Arthur received his education in Canada and came to this country in 1887, locating at Conneaut. Since that time he has been engaged in the hardware business in the same location on Main Street. Mr. Arthur does a large volume of business and is widely known as a reliable business man.

tives of Ohio and early settlers of Missouri. Dr. Brown served throughout the Civil War with an Ohio regiment. He died in 1871, and his wife died in 1917. Mrs. Arthur has one brother, William, who is engaged in farming near Geneva, Ohio. To George T. and Lillie (Brown) Arthur five children have been born: Louise, married Frank Spieldenner, a public accountant, lives in New York city; Marion, lives in Cleveland; James, in store with his father and has charge of the office; and Robert and Mabel.

Mr. Arthur is a Republican and has served as a member of the school board for a number of years. He and his family are members of the Congregational Church.

C. Vern Carr, who is successfully engaged in the real estate and insurance business at Conneaut, was born at Harmonsburg, Crawford County, Pa., July 21, 1882. He is a son of John and Ida (McMurtry) Carr.

John Carr was a native of New York and his wife was born in Penn- -sylvania. He was engaged in the blacksmithing business at Harmonsburg, Pa., for many years. He was a Republican and served as deputy sheriff of Crawford County and held other township offices. About 1888 Mr. Carr came to Conneaut, Ohio, and engaged in blacksmithing and later | the livery business which he conducted until his death which occurred in 1905; his wife died in 1898. There were three children in the Carr family: C. Vern, the subject of this sketch; Glen H., lives at Meadville, Pa.; and Frank, lives in Cleveland.

C. Vern Carr was educated in the public schools and at the age of 17 years became a sailor on the Great Lakes. He later was in the employ of the Bessemer Railroad as conductor and later as yardmaster. Mr. Carr has been engaged in business at Conneaut since 1915. He is a director of The Citizens Banking & Trust Company, director, secretary and treasurer of The Citizens Building & Loan Company, and director and treasurer 'of The Conneaut Woolen Mills Company, and director of the Northeastern Oil and Gas Company.

Mr. Carr was married to Miss Inez Baker, a native of Pennsylvania, and the daughter of Charles LeRoy and Carrie (Randall) Baker. Mr. Baker is deceased and Mrs. Baker lives with her daughter, Mrs. Carr. Two brothers, Thomas and Ellis Baker, live at Conneaut. To Mr. and Mrs. Carr two children have been born: Earl, who is in business with his father; and Geraldine, a student.

Mr. Carr is a member of the Masonic lodge, of which he is past master; past high priest and past Th. Ill. Masters now captain general of Cashe Commandery. He also is a member of the Elks. He has served as director of public safety and as secretary of the Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Rotary Club and is sergeant-at-arms during the reorganization of the present paid fire department of Conneaut. Mr. Carr was clerk of the safety department, although he was not a member of the department. He also served as a volunteer fireman of the old fire department and was captain of the hook and ladder company. He served as a volunteer fireman about 16 years. Mr. Carr ranks as one of the leading and prosperous citizens of Conneaut.

Walter E. Masters, a well known citizen of Conneaut, who is engaged in the insurance and real estate business, was born at Painesville, Ohio, Sept. 12, 1857, and is a son of William G. and Arabella S. (Kent) Masters.

William G. Masters was a native of Chautauqua County, N. Y., and came to Ohio in 1844, locating at Amboy. After his marriage he removed to Perry, in Lake County, and later to Painesville, where he engaged in the tobacco business. Mr. Masters was a Republican and a member of the Methodist Church. He died March 28, 1905, and his widow died Sept. 25, 1912. They were the parents of two children: William Monroe, who died Dec. 31, 1922, and Walter E., the subject of this sketch.

Walter E. Masters attended the district schools of North Kingsville. He learned the cigarmaker's trade and was in that business at Conneaut for 23 years. He then conducted a hotel in Conneaut until 1913, at which time he engaged in the insurance and real estate business. Mr. Masters is associated with the Conneaut Building & Loan Company, of which he has been a director for 35 years. He is also chairman of the appraisal board.

On Oct. 9, 1887, Mr. Masters was married to Miss Minnie M. Griffey, a native of Pennsylvania, born April 17, 1867, and the daughter of Albert and Alice (Putney) Griffey, natives of Pennsylvania, now deceased. Mr. Griffey was a veteran of the Civil War. There were five children in the Griffey family: Mrs. Masters; Pearl, married E. J. Parrish, superintendent of the Buffalo division of the Nickel Plate Railroad, lives in Buffalo, N. Y.; Alice, lives in Cleveland; Bert J., died in Alaska, in 1920; and Emmer, married John C. Alderman, lives in Denver, Col. To Mr. and Mrs. Masters have been born three children: Albert G., a graduate of the University of Michigan, an electrical engineer, lives at Cincinnati, Ohio; Paul W., a graduate of Tri State College in Indiana, a civil engineer, lives at Conneaut ; and Margaret A., a-student.

John Cummins, now living retired in Conneaut, is among the highly esteemed and prominent citizens of Ashtabula County. He was born at Conneaut, Jan. 12, 1851, and is the son of David and Rhoda (Wood) Cummins.

David Cummins was born near Buffalo, N. Y., in 1827, and was a harness maker by trade. At an early date he came to Ohio and settled in Conneaut, where he followed 'his trade until 18638. In that year he became interested in the canning industry and opened a factory, which he operated successfully under the name of The D. Cummins Company, for 46 years, and which is now one of the leading business enterprises of Ashtabula County. The D. Cummins Company was the first of its kind in Ohio, and is now known throughout the country as The Cummins Canning Company. Mr. Cummins died in 1920, and his wife died ten years previously. They had four children: John, the subject of this sketch; Howell A., Clinton B., and Thomas, all deceased.

John Cummins was reared and educated in Conneaut and when a young man engaged in business with his father, in which he was actively engaged until the time of his retirement. Mr. Cummins owns large tracts of farm land in Ohio, as well as much city property in Conneaut. The Cummins residence, which is located at 884 East Main Street, is among the attractive homes of Ashtabula County.

In 1872 Mr. Cummins was married to Miss Mary Risdon, who was born at Conneaut, Nov. 19, 1851, the daughter of Eliah and Lucretia (Frederick) Risdon, natives of New York, and early settlers of Ashtabula County. Mr. and Mrs. Risdon, now deceased, were the parents of five children: Harriet, married Glover Ashley, both deceased; Imogene, deceased; Mrs. Cummins; Helen, married Bert Capron, lives at Conneaut; and Clara, deceased, was the wife of B. E. Thayer, lives at Jefferson, Ohio. To John and Mary (Risdon) Cummins four children were born as follows: Thomas, a civil engineer, lives at Ontario, Calif.; Mabel, married

John M. Haskell, lives at Albany, N. Y.; Margaret, married Samuel T. Harris, lives at Ashtabula; and Robert E., a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Cummins have six grandchildren.

Mr. Cummins is a Republican. He is one of the organizers of the Conneaut Mutual Loan & Trust Company and for a number of years served as vice-president of the Pennsylvania and Ohio Railway Company. It is fitting that the history of the Cummins family should be incorporated in a volume such as this, since it has been connected with the development of Ashtabula County from the earliest days.

Tom L. Smith, an enterprising young business man of Conneaut, engaged in the real estate and insurance business, is a member of a prominent pioneer family of Ashtabula County. He was born at Conneaut, April 4, 1898, and is a son of Hiram Lake and Ida (Owen) Smith. -

Hiram Lake Smith was a native of Conneaut and a son of S. J. Smith, an early settler and prominent business man of Conneaut. S. J. Smith served as mayor of Conneaut for two terms. He owned and operated a paper mill for many years. Hiram Lake Smith was a merchant of Conneaut for many years and later in life engaged in the real estate and insurance business. He died March 6, 1919. His wife, a native of Pennsylvania, lives at Conneaut. They were the parents of three children: Catherine, married Ralph Crocker, lives at Conneaut; Robert, assistant auditor of the Guardian Savings & Trust Company in Cleveland, mention of whom is made below; and Tom L., the subject of this sketch.

Robert Smith served as a first heutenant throughout the World War with the 322nd Infantry. After a period of service in France he was transferred to the Italian front where he remained until the signing of the Armistice.

Tom L. Smith received his education in the public schools of Conneaut and attended the University of Michigan. He has been engaged in the real estate and insurance business at Conneaut since 1917 and is well and favorably known. :

On Sept. 24, 1918, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Pauline Elizabeth Swanson, a native of Ashtabula, and a daughter of Gus and Emma (Mueller) Swanson, natives of Sweden, and residents of Ashtabula. Mr. and Mrs. Swanson are the parents of the following children: Samuel and Charles, live at Ashtabula; Josephine, married M. S. Groger, lives in Pitts- burgh; Andrew, a veteran of the World War, lives at Ashtabula; Gertrude, married John Leary, lives in Erie County, Ohio; Gustave, Robert and George live at Ashtabula; and Mrs. Smith. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith one child has been born, Elizabeth Alicia, born May 4, 1920.

Mr. Smith is now one of the board of governors of the Conneaut Country Club. He also served over one year as a director of the Chamber of Commerce. He is now secretary of the Ashtabula County Real Estate Board, and also secretary of the Fargo Mineral Springs Company. He is a member of the board of directors of the Kiwanis Club.

C. Henry Simonds, president of the Citizens Banking & Trust Company and president of the Simonds & Bennett Furniture Company of Conneaut, is a leading citizen of Ashtabula County. He was born at Jefferson, Ohio, Nov. 19, 1844, and is the son of Charles 8S. and Louisa (Warner) Simonds.

Charles §. Simonds was born in Vermont and came to Ohio when a young man, locating at Harpersfield. He later removed to Jefferson where he practiced law successfully for many years. He was a Republican and a member of the Congregational Church. Mr. and Mrs. Simonds, now deceased, were the parents of the following children: C. Henry, the subject of this sketch; Albert G., who died in May, 1923; Louise M., the widow of Edward Wade, lives at West Chester, Pa.; Adeline W., the widow of C. C. Canfield, resides in Ravenna, Ohio; and Amelia P., married E. F. Beardsley, lives at Minneapolis, Minn.

C. Henry Simonds was educated in the Jefferson schools and when a boy learned the tinner's trade, which he followed in Jefferson for ten years. In 1893 he came to Conneaut and engaged in business with C. S. Putman as furniture dealers. Seven years later Mr. Simonds became a partner of Mr. Bennett, and this partnership has continued for 24 years. It is one of the leading enterprises of Conneaut and is located at 221 Broad Street. Mr. Simonds was one of the organizers of the Citizens Banking & Trust Company, of which he is president.

On Feb. 11, 1915, Mr. Simonds was married to Miss Kathleen Willard, who was born in Conneaut Township, Ashtabula County. She is the daughter of Frank and Miranda (Buss) Willard, both of whom are now deceased. There were six children in the Willard family: Mrs. Simonds; Mattie, married Ralph Saulsbury, lives at Conneaut; Berkley D., engaged in the hardware business at Massillon, Ohio; Lillian, married Harry McKay, lives at Conneaut; Edith, married Norman Murray, lives at Conneaut; and Mora, lives at Cleveland. Mr. and Mrs. Simonds have no children.

Mr. Simonds is a Republican and has served as mayor of Conneaut for one term. He also served as a deputy in the Probate office at Jefferson, Ashtabula County and during that time of service the great bridge disaster at Ashtabula, in 1876, happened. He made the record of the known dead. In February, 1879 he was elected clerk of courts and served nine years. His wife is a member of the Congregational Church and is prominent in Ashtabula County.

Josiah T. Grant, now living retired at Conneaut, is a veteran of the Civil War and an honored pioneer of Ashtabula County. He was born at Conneaut, July 18, 1838, and is a son of Elizur Franklin and Lucinda (Spaulding) Grant.

Elizur Franklin Grant was born in Hartford County, Conn., and was among the first settlers in Conneaut, coming here in 1835. He drove a horse and buggy through with his brother, Solyman, and later drove an ox team with a covered wagon to Conneaut. Elizur Grant rented a log cabin the first season he was here and then built a two-room frame house. He became a successful farmer and owned 107 acres of land. Mr. Grant's first taxes amounted to $1.02. At that time postage on letters was 25 cents. Records and deeds which belonged to Mr. Grant are now in the possession of his son, Josiah T. Grant, and are very interesting documents. Grant Road, in Ashtabula County, is named for the Grant family. Mr. Grant died in 1892 and his wife died in 1878. They were the parents of the following children: Elizabeth A., who died at the age of six years; Josiah T., the subject of this sketch; L. A., died Jan. 31, 1922; and Lucinda Marie, married Henry Anderson, lives at 810 West Main Street, Conneaut.

Josiah T. Grant was reared and educated in Conneaut Township and followed farming for many years. During the latter part of the Civil War he was a member of Company H, 39th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but did not see any active service.

Mr. Grant is a Republican. He lives with his sister. Mr. Grant has many friends in this county, and is one of its highly respected citizens.

Joseph E. Close, an enterprising and well known citizen of Conneaut, was born at Little Washington, Ohio, Aug. 10, 1861, the son of Henry and Sarah Jane (Hatcher) Close.

Henry Close was born in Belmont County, Ohio, Jan. 5, 1837, and was a Methodist minister. In 1880 he removed to Beaver, Pa., and later to Chicago. He died Aug. 23, 1917, and his wife died March 29, 1910. They were the parents of three children: Novella M., lives in Chicago; Joseph E., the subject of this sketch; and Clarence, lives at Beaver Falls, Pa.

Joseph E. Close was reared and educated in Ohio and when a boy learned the printer's trade, which he followed successfully for 25 years. He was at one time manager of the Globe Printing Company of Beaver Falls, Pa. Mr. Close is just completing 25 years of service with the Pittsburgh & Conneaut Dock Company as foreman.