Belmont County, Ohio - Chapter 29: Wayne Township. |, 1903 (part 9 of 15)

On December 8, 1869, Mr. Pollock was married to Aggie J. Henry, a nátive of this county, a daughter of John and Ellen (Clark) Henry, the former of whom is a merchant in Fairview, Ohio. Mrs. Pollock is one of a family of four children, viz.: Alexander C., a resident of Allegheny; Mrs. Pollock; Mary D., deceased; and Maggie, deceased. Both Mr. and Mrs Pollock are members of the United Presbyterian Church, in which the former has been an elder for many years, and both have been teachers in the Sundayschool for over 30 years. Mr. Pollock has never been deeply interested in political problems, but as a strict temperance man acts with the Prohibition party. He is as highly esteemed as any resident of Union township, in every relation of life, and the solid air of comfort which prevails about his home makes it a notable one. Here both he and his estimable wife delight to offer a generous hospitality to their many friends.

STEWART WARD, wholesale grocers and millers, located at the corner of 28th and Water streets, is an old and reliable business firm of Bellaire, Belmont County, Ohio, which was established in 1879, 23 years ago. Until 1892 the business was milling, but in that year the firm embarked in the wholesale grocery line, and is the only jobbing house in Bellaire.

The mill was purchased from the firm of Bent & Dunlop, and has been remodeled and equipped with modern machinery until it 1s first-class and thoroughly up-to-date. The main brands of flour manufactured are the "Beauty," the "Daisy Roller" and the "Anchor." This house distributes several brands of Northwestern spring wheat flour to its trade. The business requires 15 employees, including traveling men, who cover the regular Wheeling jobbing district. The mill is operated by steam power and railroad facilities are of the best. As the firm controls the jobbing trade in the county, it occupies a leading and independent position. Its managers áre men of ability and reliability and enjoy the confidence of the public to the fullest extent. '

A. T. STEWART was born and reared in Jefferson County, Ohio, but has resided at Bellaire ever since the organization of the present business. Prior to that he had engaged in a mercantile line, and conducted a general store at Toronto, Ohio, several years. In young manhood he went to Vicksburg, and spent two years there in a jobbing business just before locating in Bellaire. His residence is on Belmont street. His family consists of three children, as follows: A. Mack, who is storekeeper for the National Steel Company at Bellaire; and Roberta L. and William, who are at home. Mrs. Stewart is deceased. Mr. Stewart has at various times been interested in business enterprises in the city and has been a member of the Board of Education. His religious connection is with the Presbyterian Church.

D. A. Warp has been a resident of Bellaire since 1879, when he formed his partnership with Mr. Stewart. He was born in 1850, near Steubenville, Ohio, and in 1876 went to Toronto, Ohio, and there engaged in a milling business. He was reared on a farm and was given a good common school education, which fitted him for a business career in which he has been so successful. He.married Ella M. Stewart, a sister of his partner, and his three children are: Frankie, bookkeeper for the firm; Amy and Donald. Mr. Ward built a handsome home in the Fourth Ward, and he is a trustee of the First Presbyterian Church of Bellaire. In politics he is a Republican, and, like his partner, is held in esteem for his upright business methods as well as his estimable personal characteristics.

GEORGE COOKE, attorney-at-law, and ex-city solicitor of Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, is a son of James and Jane ( Mc- Cracken) Cooke, natives of Harrison County, Ohio, and residents of New Athens, of the same county.

James Cooke has followed the occupation of a farmer all his life and is today numbered among the county's well-to-do, substantial citizens, who is known throughout the surrounding county. He has been township trustee for some twelve of fourteen years, has always been alert in politics, and is a Democrat. and his family prefer the doctrines of the United Presbyterian Church, of which he is a prominent member and trustee also.

Our subject is the third in a family of five children: W. M., who is a carpenter and contractor at New Athens, Ohio; Agnes M., who is now Mrs. J. B. Patton, of New Athens; George, our subject; Margaret F., still living in the home circle; Rev. Robert Parks, a graduate of Franklin College, Ohio. ;

George Cooke was educated in the common schools, afterward taking a course in Franklin College, and completing it through the junior year. He read law with George Duncan after this and was finally admitted to the bar in 1894, and began practice in his own name. He has practiced in all the courts of the State and in the Supreme Court and is considered one of the rising young attorneys of the county. In 1899 he was elected city solicitor of Martin's Ferry with a majority of three to one in a locality pronounced Republican, and in the second election in 1900 he carried all the wards of the city, with the exception of one. He has served in the office for thyee years, showing his fine official capacity. He has been deputy supervisor of elections in Belmont County for four years, and has also been a member of the Republican County Executive Committee, taking a lively interest in politics.

April 30, r902, Mr. Cooke was united in marriage with Lena F. McKay, a native of Delaware, Ohio, and a daughter of John McKay, now deceased. They are members of the United Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Cooke has been secretary of the congregation for years. In fraternal circles our subject is a member of the K. of P. and'has passed through most of the chairs; a member of the Bellaire Lodge of Elks; and also of the A. O. U. W. fraternity. Mr. Cooke is one of the stirring speakers on the Democratic side in county and national campaigns; he is a faithful student, well read, and stands deservedly high in the estimation of all.

HON. JOHN W. KENNON. One of the well-known and honored names in Belmont County, Ohio, is that of Kennon, representing large landed interests as well as social and political prominence. A most worthy and esteemed member of this family is found in Hon. John W. Kennon, who resides upon a fine estate within one mile of the city of Barnesville.

The birth of Mr. Kennon occurred in Ireland, in 1812, a year of historic interest in the annals of America, and was one of a family of seven children born to Newall and Jane (Wilson) Kennon, the latter of whom died in her native Ireland, in 1819. In 1821, the father of our subject, with his seven motherless children, left his excellent farm in Ireland, where he had prospered as long as he had been cheered and supported by the presence of his devoted wife; emigrating to America, he made his first permanent settlement in Warren township, Belmont County, Ohio, where he purchased 1,000 acres of land, paying for this large tract the sum of $10,000. In those early days the land was yet covered with its virgin growth of timber. In order to have the land quickly cleared and put under cultivation, Mr. Kennon hired various parties to undertake this business, leasing to each for seven years, free of charge, the contract being that they were to clear 21 acres. A man of excellent business faculty, he lived to see many changes wrought by his plans. He died in 1863, at the advanced age of 9I years.

John W. Kennon grew to the age of eight years in his native county, Down, Ireland, at that age accompanying his father to America. His education was obtained in an old log school house near his home, in company with the children of other pioneer-families, and he was reared to agricultural pursuits, fór which he has never lost a taste. At the beginning of the Grange movement, he became interested and during his later legislative career furthered in every way in his power those laws tending to be of advantage to the fárming community. Successfully operating a large estate, he also became a leader in public matters and on more than one occasion, on account of the reliability of his character, was selected to serve as a United States juror, at Cincinnati. During the winters of 1868 and 1869, he served as a Representative in the StateLegislature, and he was appointed one of the committee to select the site of the State Reform School for Girls, the same being now a credit to White Sulphur Springs, Delaware County, Ohio.

On November 7, 1851, Mr. Kennon was united in marriage with Eliza DuBois, and ten children were born to this union, as follows: Jane W., Josephine, Mary E., J. Newall, Agnes, Thomas J., William H., Anna E., Robert R., and George W., the two last named being deceased. Mary E. married Daniel Crawford, who died in February, 1884. Josephine married E. T. Parker, who died in February, 1896. Agnes married John C. Buchanan. Anna E. married Frank J. Beaston, a manufacturer of Philadelphia. Thomas J. married Clara M. Beaston of: Philadelphia where they reside. William H. married Zetta Eccleston, and they north of Barnesville. A discovery of oil was made on his farm, resulting in a productive well and the drilling of a second, this also promising to be satisfactory. Mr. Kennon and family belong to the Presbyterian Church. He is most highly regarded in this vicinity as not only one of the most substantial but also as one of the most upright and public-spirited citizens of Belmont County.

BENJAMIN F. MUMMA, one of Warren township's progressive farmers, belonging to one of the old and honored families of the State, was born in Kirkwood township, Belmont County, September 9, 1849, one of a family of seven children born to Daniel and Elizabeth (Sheppard) Mumma, five of whom still survive.

Daniel Mumma was also a native of Kirkwood townshjp, born there in 1817, one of a family of four children who were born on his father's farm. Through a long life filled with meritorious deeds, he passed out of it in September, 1899.

Benjamin F. Mumma attended the schools of Kirkwood township, and remained there until 1876, when he removed to Warren township where he purchased his present fine farm. This comprises 100 acres in section 12, in Warren township, which is now under the management of Joseph W. Murphy, our subject's very capable son-in-law, who was born

Benjamin F. Mumma was married January 1. I874, to Armintha Taylor, a daughter of Rev. Abijah Taylor, of Kirkwood township. Four children were born to this marriage, Emsley, deceased; Hattie L., who married T W. Murphy, on May 10, 1900; Charles R. and Linnie. The religious association of the family is with the Methodist Church. In political sentiment, Mr. Mumma is most in sympathy with the Prohibition party. Much agricultural development, he belongs to the Grange and furthers all movements looking to the protection as well as advancement of the farmers' interests. For three years he served as school director, his excellent judgment and deep and intelligent interest making him a valuable acquisition on the board. He lives retired from business activity, enjoying the fruits of his land, and the companionship and affection of his family.

J. HARRY McDONALD, superintendent of the Bessemer department for the -National Steel Company in their extensive plant at Bellaire, Ohio, is one of the bestknown and most successful business men of the city. He efficiently fills a position of grave responsibility. Since the summer of 1884 he has been a resident of Bellaire, and closely identified with the great corporation noted above, although he had been connected with the steel business in Braddock, Pennsylvania, since 1876.

The birth of Mr. McDonald took place in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, one of a family of 15 children born to Patrick and Christiana McDonald, the former of whom came to Bellaire in 1888, in the steel industry, but who now is a resident of Youngstown, Ohio. Our subject's sisters reside near Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, while the surviving sons are located as follows: Thomas, Joseph, Lewis and William are all connected with the steel business in Youngstown; Charles is connected with the iron business at Duquesne, Pennsylvania; Isaac is in the same business at Homestead; Samuel is connected with the Tennessee Coal & Iron Company in Alabama; Francis D. is connected with the Republic Steel I10n Company at Youngstown; and Robert, who lives in Bellaire, Ohio.

schools of Allegheny County and began his work in the steel industry when about 20 years of age. - His industrial schooling was of the most practical character, and its results are seen in the present responsible position filled with so much success. It has been by firm determination and constant, painstaking effort that our subject has gradually risen from his first humble position to the present one.

The marriage of Mr. McDonald was to a daughter of Joseph Wood, who was a former resident of Bellaire, but now lives in Cambridge. Mrs. McDonald was reared and educated in Bellaire. The two children born to this union are J. Wood and Harry Eugene. The family home is located at No. 4139 Harrison street, in a handsome residence erected in 1902 by Mr. McDonald. The fraternal connections of our subject are with Bellaire Lodge, No. 267, F. & A. M. Chapter No. 107, R. A. M.; and Hope Commandery, No. 26, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, and Black Prince Lodge, No. 57, Knights of Pythias, of Bellaire, Ohio. Mr. McDonald is one of the trustees of the First Presbyterian Church of Bellaire. His political affliation is with the Republican party.

THOMPSON M. WELLS, M. D., a prominent physician and surgeon who has resided in Bellaire, Ohio, since 1886, was born in 1853, on what is now the site of the Diamond Mill, at Bridgeport, and he was reared at Martin's Ferry.

The parents of Dr. Wells were Henry and Margaret (McConahey) Wells, the former ot whom followed the trade of blacksmith until 1859, after which time he conducted a foundry at Martin's Ferry. He came to Belmont County in 1822, from Philadelphia, where he was born, and where his father also was a blacksmith. The McConahey family of which Dr.

Wells' mother was a member was one of the pioneer ones of Belmont County. She died when our subject was small, and he, with his brothers, was reared by her sister, who was born in Belmont county in 1805. Her brother, Dr. James McConahey, was younger than she, and his son George conducts a country store on the Martin's Ferry & Mount Pleasant Pike. Dr. Wells' father died January 2, 1890, aged 75 years.

Dr. Wells was one of three sons who were so early bereft of their mother, namely: Dr. Levi C., H. E. and our subject. Dr. Levi C. is a practicing physician at Cambridge, Ohio. H. E. was engaged in the drug business for many years with a Mr. Dent, at Bridgeport, Ohio, but on account of failing health he purchased a farm near by and died May 14, 1893, his wife having passed away the year previously.

Dr. Wells had many educational advantages. In the fall of 1869 he entered Franklin College and later attended medical lectures at Philadelphia, graduating. from Hahnemann Medical College on March 10, 1875, at the age of 22 years. He began his practice, in the school of homeopathy, at Baresville, Monroe County, Ohio, in 1875 and continued there until his location in Bellaire in 1886. His home and office are located at No. 3467 Guernsey street, and he has enjoyed a large and lucrative practice,

The marriage of Dr. Wells was to a daughterior R..b. Smith, of Mount Pleasant, Ohio. the latter being a boyish comrade of Dr. Wells' father. Four children were born to this marriage, namely: Helen, who died August 12, 1895, aged 19 years and six months; Mabel, now Mrs. Way, whose husband is a messenger on the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway, and a son of Dr. Way, of Woodsfield, Ohio; Malcolm M., who is a graduate of the Elliott school and the Bellaire High School, is well known in football circles, and although but 24 years old, is yardmaster of the tracks of the United States Steel Corporation's mill at Bellaire, and lives at home; and Palma, who is yet a student. For 22 years Dr. Wells has been a Mason and both he and his son

Malcolm belong to the Bellaire blue lodge and the chapter. His father was the first elder in the Bridgeport Presbyterian Church, away back in 1841-42, and the Doctor still adheres to the religious principles i in which he was reared. He is a member of the Ohio Valley Homeopathic Medical Association. In person our subject is built in generous mold, weighing some 300 pounds. It has been said by some of his grateful patients, that a visit from the jovial, pleasant physician, with his vitality and good cheer, does more good than pills or potions. This may be one secret of the Doctor's unusual success and popularity.

bi DAVID COSS, a well-known business man of Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, has his place of business at No. 411 Walnut street, and deals extensively in paints, oils, varnishes, dye stuffs, etc. He also buys powder by the car ?oad and sells dynamite in both large and small quantities. He is a native of Martin's Ferry, was born January 7, 1859, and is a son of Harrison and Mary J. (Linn) Coss. Harrison Coss was very well known and esteemed during his life. and followed the occupation of a brick-layer, taking contracts, etc., and doing work principally on dwellings. He was united in marriage with Mary J. Linn, who is still an honored resident of Martin's Ferry, her home for many years. She was born in 1830 and bore her husband eight children. Her husband was a through-andthrough Republican and served as councilman for several years with much satisfaction . to all. He departed this life November 6, 1900, on the day on which President McKinley and Vice-President Roosevelt were elected to office. Mrs. Coss has been a life-long member of the M. E. Church, and is a great worker. in religious movements. The names of her children are as follows: William H., Rena, David, our subject; Addison Giara Delora, Herman, and Frank, who like his father before aim is a brick-layer by occupation and makes his home in Martin's Perry. Herman is a blacksmith in the American Tin Plate Mill at Martins Ferry; Delora' married W. E. Thomas, a worker in the mill and lives in Zanesville, Ohio; William H. and Addison are employed as blacksmiths at the Laughlin Mill in Martin's Ferry, - the former has been twice married, having been united with Sallie Chambers, and later with Maggie Sweeney ; the latter married Mary Blakemore.

. David Coss was educated in the schools of his native city and afterward found a position as clerk in a grocery store where he worked until he had mastered painting, the trade which he subsequently followed for twelve or fifteen years until 1893. At the end of that year he embarked in business as a paint and oil dealer, and by honesty and fair dealing has built up a first rate patronage and trade, and is ranked among the foremost business men of the city.

Mr. Coss has never married. He is a Republican of decided opinions as was his father, and takes much interest in politics. In-fraternal circles he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and has passed through al! the chairs; and also affiliates with the Junior Order of United American Mechanics.

From 1896 until 1900, Mr. Coss served with credit as city treasurer, and has gained the - confidence and trust of the public by his faithfulness to duty and his prompt and active methods. He is a stockholder in the German Savings Bank.

GEORGE L. SPENCE, president of the Stanton Heater Company, director in the People's Savings Bank, stockholder in the First National Bank of Bridgeport, director and vicepresident of the Fidelity Savings & Loan Company and director in the Spence-Baggs Stove Company, of Martin's Ferry, is one of the leading business men of the Ohio Valley.

Mr. Spence is an Ohio product, born in Martin's Ferry, on November 11, 1866, a son of Lavosier and Elizabeth (Dakan) Spence, the former of whom was born in Jefferson County and the latter in Belmont County, in the same

State. Lavosier Spence was born to parents who lived in an unassuming way, in a cabin on a rented farm in, Mount Pleasant township, Jefferson County, on January 14, 1829, and like the majority of self-made men attained his present position as a capitalist, by climbing up a hill of toil. His educational advantages were meager indeed and he just simply went to work and kept at it through youth and manhood; his struggles developed his character as well as his mental and physical being. From being a good carpenter he developed into an excellent machinist, and in 1857 he began the making of threshing machines in Martin's Ferry, and ten years later made engines, continuing the business until 1899. Mr. Spence was one of the original builders of the old Aetna and Standard iron and steel companies' works, and was a director in both companies until they went into the combination in 1899. In 1873 he went into the manufacture of stoves, continuing alone until 1874, when he admitted several gentlemen into partnership, the firm name thus becoming Spence, Baggs & Co., which operated successfully until 1900 when the present firm of the Spence-Baggs Stove Co. was incorporated. This company is yearly expanding and growing more prosperous.

In 1899 the thresher and engine plants which our subject's father established were merged into the Riverside Bridge Company, Mr. Spence still retaining an interest. He is also a director in the Stanton Heater Company, is president of the People's Savings Bank and vice-president of the First National Bank. of Bridgeport, Ohio.

Mr. Spence is financially interested in other manufacturing enterprises in Martin's Ferry. For years he has been one of the most enterprising men of the city, ready to promote its best interests. Mr. Spence owns one of the handsomest residences in: Martin's Ferry, | which is situated on a bluff commanding a fine view of the hills and the river. He delights in r his home, in his family and friends and is proud | and hopeful regarding the future of this city. | He has been identified with much of the im- | provement in this section.

D. Spence was born on November 3, 1862, and died August 6, 1895. He married Texa Arnett, who was a native of Wheeling, who died in 1889, at the age of 24 years, leaving two children, Elizabeth D. and Grover L.

George L Spence received many educational advantages. Finishing his primary education in the lower grades in Martin's Ferry, he entered the High School, graduating from that institution in 1886 and then entered the Ohio State University at Columbus. In 1887, when in the sophomore year, he left the college in order to enter into the thresher and engine manufacturing business in which hé was made a partner in 1890, continuing as such until 1899 when he assisted in the incorporation of the Stanton Heater Company and raised the funds to put it on a safe basis. Like his father, Mr. Spence has an unusual degree of business ability and is interested in many of the. leading enterprises in this locality and is foremost in all public movements tending to the prosperity and advancement of Martin's Ferry. He is interested and stil a director in the Spence-Baggs Stove Company; he helped to organize the Belmont Brick Company and was a director in that company for some seven years; is a stockholder in the First National Bank in Bridgeport; and in 1887 was one of the organizers and has been a director and the vice-president of the Fidelity Savings & Loan Company since. Mr. Spence was one of the original organizers of the Y. M. C. A. and served for two years as its president.

On October 12, 1892, Mr. Spence was married to Flora A. McCord, a native of Martin's Ferry and a daughter of C. G. and Anna Mc- Cord, residents of the same city. .For the past 20 years Mr. McCord has been in the brick business and is a member of the brick firm of McCord Brothers, of Martin's Ferry, Ohio. Two daughters have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Spence, Emma A. and Gertrude E. The religious connection of the family is with the

Baptist Church, in which body Mr. Spence has efficiently filled all the positions accorded to a layman. His support is liberal and both he and his wife find much enjoyment in further- Politics do not appeal to Mr. Spence, and he confines his activity to local affairs. He is justly ranked high in business circles and his integrity and justice in dealing

HON SWILE TAMMY SMELL ya citizen of St. Clairsville, Ohio, is judge of the Probate Court of Belmont County, in which capacity he has served with honor and credit since 1896. He was born on a farm near Chester Hill, in Morgan County, Ohio, June 5, 1854, and is a son of David and Mary (Foulke) Smith, who were members of the Society of Friends and both natives of Ohio. His mother died when he was four years old. His father, now past 75 years of age, is living on the old home farm near Chester Hill.

Judge Smith attended boarding school at Westtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania, graduating from there in 1875. He later went to Haverford College in Pennsylvania, from which institution he graduated in the summer of 1877. He then went to McConnelsville, Ohio, and commenced the study of law in the office of Pond & Foulke, and was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1879. He taught school for a number of years while acquiring his education.

He was married June 23, 1880, to Mary Blanche Pond, «only daughter of his former preceptor, Col. Francis B. Pond, and Eliza A. (Corner) Pond. Colonel Pond was colonel of the 62nd Reg., Ohio Vol Inf, in the War of the Rebellion, and was later Attorney General of the State of Ohio. Judge Smith and his wife soon after their marriage located at Barnesville, Ohio, where he commenced the practice of law, and continued there in successful practice until 1896, when he was elected to the office of Probate judge on the Republican ticket, since which time he has resided in St. Clairsville. He was re-elected by an increased majority in 1899. He has always taken an active interest in politics in support of the principles of the Republican party.

Judge Smith and his family are identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. In secret orders he is an Odd Fellow, a Knight of Pythias, and a Mason. Judge Smith and his wife are the parents of two children: Harold D., who is attending the public school in St. Clairsville, and Frances E., a daughter, who is now a junior in Lake Erie College at Painesville, Ohio.

JOHN SCHICK, for many years a prominent coal operator, residing at Bellaire, Ohio, was born in Germany in 1845, and is a son of Martin Schick.

Martin Schick came to the United States in 1847, first locating in Baltimore for 12 years, then in Wheeling two years, when he came to Bellaire. He was for a number of years immigrant agent for the B. £ O. R R, having charge oí immigrants for the West, directing them across the river and placing them on proper trains and routes for theif destinations. He conducted the Eagle farm west of Bellaire, upon which the miners' shanties are now built. For two years he followed the coal business. He died in 1881. He was a well-known man in this vicinity and on the railroad between Baltimore and Columbus. He and his wife had the following children: Mrs. Lena Miller; Mrs. Joseph Cleaver; John; August, who was in partnership with John tor many years; Andrew; George; Fred; Mrs. Louise Clouse; Anna Schempf, deceased; Mrs. C. A. Smith; and Frances, deceased.: Those residents of Bellaire.

School at Wheeling, and in a school in Bellaire located where the C. & P. R. R. depot now stands. In 1858 he went to Richmond, . Virginia, where he spent two years as apprentice at the tinners' trade, then returned home and entered the employ of George W. Johnson at Wheeling, and later of Thomas Medford at Bellaire. Because he was under age, he ran away from home and enlisted in Company A, 43rd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf, serving from January 11, 1862, until July 13, 1865, being in Sherman's army. He was never sick a day, and, in fact, gained in health during his service. Returning to Bellaire, he resumed the tinning trade, which he followed until 1880, since which time he has engaged mainly in looking after his various properties. He owns three business buildings and eight residences in Bellaire, besides having other business interests. He is a director and stockholder of the Novelty Stamping Company, which he helped to promote and build; director of the Farmer's & Merchant's Bank; stockholder in the Mason Heater Company and the Imperial Glass Company. In 1877 he and his brother August formed a partnership in the coal business, and until recently operated the mine one mile and a half west of Bellaire, on the B. % O. R. R., from which mine coal has been furnished the railroad since before the Civil War. It is one of the oldest mines in the county and was formerly conducted by Jacob Heatherington and his brother. At the present time it is operated by John A., a son of our subject, and M. J., a son of August Schick, who succeeded their fathers as partners. They employ about 83 men and produce from 5,000 to 8,000 bushels daily. For the past 17 years our subject has resided at No. 3625 Guernsey street, where he has a fine home, which was built bv Alexander DuBois and remodeled by himself.

December 27, 1869, Mr. Schick married Augusta Bauer, of Martinsburg, and they have three ehildren: red M., a druggist in Colorado; John A., and Augusta A. In

CHARLES A. GRELLA, an enterprising grocer of Bellaire, is now conducting one of the largest and oldest industries of its kind in the city, the business having been established in 1879 by his father. Since he took a hand in the management, however, he has done much to push the business to its present prosperous condition and to make the store at 4575 Jefferson street one of the busiest .markets in the city.

Mr. Grella has undoubtedly inherited much of his energy and clear-headed business capacity from his good German ancestors. His father, Louis Grella, was a native of Germany, and in 1870 came to this country and soon afterward settled in Bellaire. Here at its present Jocation in 1878 he erected the store where the son is now conducting business, a substantial structure 80 by- 20 feet. The following year he put in a good stock of groceries and started business. The industry proved a success from the start, and from year to year he was enabled to enlarge his stock and branch out in other respects. In 1893 he received his son as a partner and the firm has since been known as L. Grella Son. Mr. Grella died in June, 1901. His wife is now residing at their pleasant residence at No. 4565 Jefferson street. To Mr. and Mrs. Grella were born seven children - Louis, now in the steel business in Pittsburg; Charles A., who is mentioned below; Wilham, a clerk in his brother's grocery store; Minnie, who lives at home; Louisa, who married D. Riley, of Pittsburg, and Emma and Ida, who are still at home. Mr. Grella was a man who exerted an influence upon the public affairs of the city. In politics he affiliated with the Democrats.

had so firmly established in Bellaire. As has been said, he became a partner in this grodeath of his father, about a year ago, he has taken full charge of affairs. He carries a full line of staple and fancy groceries, has a large retail trade, and is engaged to some extent In fact, the industry requires the employment of six men regularly and at times even more. Having considerable surplus capital, Mr. Grella has branched out to some extent, and as a large investor in the enterprises is now director of the Belmont Savings & Loan Company, and also of the recently organized Enameled Steel Tile Company.

Mr. Grella is now residing at the home of his parents. "He belongs to the MOTONET Fes AM. "Tonte Lodge, of". Bellaire: Hope Commandery, K. T., of St. Clairsville; Koon Ba Black "Prince, Lodo aud che Junior O. U. A. M. Politically he affiliates with the Republicans, and in religious views

REV. CHARLES A. MULHEARN, rector of St. Mary's Church at Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, has a large place in the hearts of his congregation and has no little part to play in the arena of life and work. He was ushered into this life September 22, 1861, and claims New. Jersey as his native State. His parents were Michael and Mary (Conaty) Mulhearn, natives of County Cavin, Ireland, and are at present honored residents of New London, Connecticut.

Michael Mulhearn is a shoemaker by vocation, and has traveled from Maine to California in the interests of his business. He makes a specialty of manufacturing shoes for cripples, and has given the work much time and study. He immigrated to this country in 1854 as did also his wife, and they were married soon after their arrival. Several children blessed their union: Charles A., the oldest of the three living; Frank, who is the efficient

The educational advantages of our subject were good. He obtained the rudiments of his education in the public schools of New London, Connecticut,later entered the High School, and finished with honor. The next eight years of his life were spent on a steamer running between New London and Sag Harbor, New York, serving in the capacity of clerk. He then entered Niagara University in New York, where he completed a classical course, and determined to become a minister. He accordingly went to Montreal and there took a course in theology, and was ordained for this diocese by Bishop Ryan of Buffalo, June 13, 1889. He served the following ten years as assistant in the Cathedral, in Columbus, Ohio, to Bishop Watterson, and his residence in Martin's Ferry has dated from November, 1888. He has charge of a church, situated in one of the nice locations of the city, which has a seating capacity for 600 and has a membership of 940 people. The schools in connection with it have a course of study similar ot that of public schools and there are now about 225 students enrolled. The parsonage is an exceedingly comfortable place and is fitted with many of the modern conveniences. There is always plenty to do and plenty to plan for future work and Mr. Mulhearn is very busy with numerous duties depending upon him. Asa good, Christian gentleman he is spoken of in the highest terms.

PAUL MORRISON, M. D, one of the leading young physicians of Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, is a native of the county, born on May 4, 1860, a son of S. G. W. and Louise Mary (Scott) Morrison, the former of whom is a native of Maryland, and the | years of age, his mind is still alert and he carries on his usual avocations. The mother of our subject, at the age of 76 years, is also remarkably active, and both are most highly esteemed in this community. Both are consistent members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Morrison is an ardent supporter of the Republican party, but he has never desired political notice. A family of nine children was born to Mr. and Mrs. Morrison, viz.: Mrs. F. S. Watson, the widow of James Watson, resides with her parents. Charles S. is an attorney in Wheeling. Mary A. is Mrs. Charles H. Dilley and resides in New York City. Dr. Frank S. is a dentist in Martin's Ferry. Dr. Paul is the subject of this review. William was killed at the age of 21 at the battle ot Cedar Creek, being struck in the temple with a spent ball. ° He enlisted as a private in the Civil War and was promoted tor gallantry to be lieutenant in the r4th Reg., West Virginia Vol. Inf. He was a young man of promise. Scott died at the age of eight years. Dr. John W., who was a practitioner in Martin's Ferry, died in 18091, aged 41 years. Virginia M. married Abraham Lash and died in Martin's Ferry, aged -36 years.

Dr. Paul Morrison obtained his primary education at the public schools of Martin's Ferry and later became a student at Kenyon College, of Gambier, Ohio, graduating in the classical department there in 1892. He then entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, graduating from that great institution in 1896. His hospital experience was gained in the Sloan Maternity Hospital and the Chambers Street Hospital, in the former of which he spent several months, gaining knowledge which he could have secured in no other way. When he settled for practice at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, it was as a thoroughly skilled surgeon and a well instructed physician, and with the added experience of two vears, he located at Martin's Ferry, in 1898. His practice is of a general nature and he is examining physician for several insurance and fraternal associations. His relations with the medical associations of Bel-

Dr. Morrison was married on December 26, 1894, to Genevieve Carpenter, a native of Port Jarvis, New York, a daughter of William Si and Emily (Palmer) Carpenter, residents of Port Jarvis. The Doctor and wife are members of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in which he is a member of the vestry. His political interest is in the success of the Republican party, but his profesional duties leave him little time for politics. Dr. Morrison is well qualified and has a constantly increasing practice.

DAVID THORBURN, a prominent and influential farmer of Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, was born December 2, 1828, on his present farm in section 31, and has made his home on it all his life, with the exception of eight years, from 1850 to 1858, spent in Colerain township. His home, which is the oldest brick house on Scotch Ridge, is very substantial and since it has been remodeled presents a modern appearance.

David Thorburn is a son of Alexander and Helen (Harper) Thorburn. His father came to this country from Scotland, where he was born, reared and married, being accompanied by his wife and two children, who were born in Dalkeith, Scotland. They arrived at Wheeling, West Virginia, in July or August, 1825, and there Mr. Thorburn followed his trade as a tanner, working for a time with Mr. Gardner, of Wheeling. He moved to Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, in the fall of 1825, and purchased what has since been the home farm, it having been entered by the Alexanders and owned at the time by Peter Alexander. He continued on this farm until 185%, when he sold it to the subject of this biography, and moved to the farm adjoining on the south, now owned by Mr. McGlenn. Remaining there until the spring of 1866, he moved to Adams County, Illinois, where he died in the fall of 1866, at the age of 70 years. He was a Whig, and later a Republican, and was a strong Abolitionist. He was always active in the United Presbyterian Church. His wife was born in Scotland and died on the home farm in 1848, aged 47 years. Their children were: Marion, Elsie, Robert, David, Alexander, Helen, Bethia (Jeffers), and Jeanette (Giddings), Marion, born in Scotland, was the wife of Robert Frazier, and died where Mozart Park is now situated, in Ohio County, West Virginia, in the 46th year of her age. Elsie, who was born in Scotland and died in 1858, was the wife of J. W. Gray. Robert, born on the home farm April 26, 1826, married, first, Miss Moore, and after her death married Miss Stringer. He has five sons and three daughters. He moved west to Missouri when his children were small. David, born on the home farm, was married in 1850 to Sarah S. Gray, daughter of an early resident, John Gray. She died in 1834, and the two children born to them died in infancy. He formed a second union in 1856 with Nancy Jane Edwards, who was born in Belmont County and is a daughter of Louis Edwards, whose father, Ignatius Edwards, came to this county from Virginia. By his second marrage David Thorburn had the following children: Lizzie Helen; Alice Arabella; Martha Alameda, wife of John S. Beatty, of Pease township, residing on the old Finney farm; Ada Harper, John S., and an infant, who are deceased; Lula Jane, wife of Frank Permar, residing near Steubenville; Katie M., Margaret W., and Charles David. Alexander, who served in the 98th Reg., Ohio, Vol. Inf, died soon after the conclusion of the Civil War. Helen, who is the widow of J. F. Godfrey, resides in Illinois. Mrs. Bethia Jeffers, a widow, resides with her family at Mount Pleasant, Ohio. Mrs. Jeanette Giddings resides in Adams County, Illinois. Alexander Thorburn was married a second time, in 1850, to Caroline Godfrey, and they

Hon. George W. Hazen

David Thorburn owns about 102 acres and has finely improved the farm, which he devotes to general farming. During the past two years he has engaged in the dairy business, wholesaling his milk at the farm. Mr. Thorburn has witnessed a wonderful development in the towns of Belmont County. He remembers Martin's Ferry when there were but three business men in town, namely: Amos Jones, dry goods merchant; Miller, the grocer; and Beasle, the tavern keeper. He helped haul the stone used in the foundation for the barn built upon his place when he was 17 years old. Politically, he is a Republican, having voted for Hale, Free-Soil candidate, and John C. Freemont, at one time being the only Republican in the district. He is a member of the United Presbyterian Church.

JOHN A. HAZEN, a prosperous farmer oi Union township, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, February 3, 1830, and is a son of Hon. - George W. and Nancy (Bowman) Hazen, natives oí New Jersey and Pennsylvania, respectively.

Judge Hazen was about three years of age when taken by his parents to live in Pennsylvania. Both his parents lived beyond the age of 70 years. He was educated for the legal profession and attained high rank among the lawyers of his section. He and his family came to Ohio in 1833, and he lived in southeast Ohio during the remainder of his life, dying in 1861 at the age of 66 years. He served as judge in Belmont

Church, of which he was a devout member. In politics he was conservative, but held strenuously to his views. Although he had much political- influence and was the ruling spirit in politics in the county, the only office ever accepted was that of judge, declining to run for a senatorship. He owned a farm of 270 acres, most of which still remains in the possession of his family. He was a Mason, and Hazen Lodge, of Morristown, was named in his honor. He married Nancy Bowman, a daughter of John and Catherine (Snively) Bowman, relatives of the Bowmans and Hoggs of Brownsville, Pennsylvania. She died in 1888, at the advanced age of 86 years. She was a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church and was an active church worker. Four children were born to them, as follows: David H., at one time partner of Governor Shannon, of St. Clairsville, was an attorney-at-law, - he moved to -Pittsburg and then to Kansas, where he died; Dr. Charles A. died at the age of 61 years in Kansas City, where he had practiced for some years; Catherine resides with the subject of this sketch; and John A.

John A. Hazen was educated in the common schools of this county and at an early age engaged in farming, at which he has since continued. He follows diversified farming and possesses 160 acres, all of which is underlaid with coal, presumably four veins. He stands high in the esteem of his fellow citizens and has many warm personal friends.

Mr. Hazen was united in marriage December 24, 1863, to Ellen: McKelvey, who was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, May 14, 1842, and was a daughter of William and Mary (Laughland) McKelvey, both now deceased. She was a Presbyterian and was a zealous church worker. Her death occurred October r4, 1894, at the age of 32 vears, being survived bv her husband and two children, namely: Florence C., an artist, who married Dr. C. U. Patterson, a practitioner of Uhrichsville. by whom she has two children, Myra and Hazen; and William C.,

JOSEPH GIBBONS, one of the oldest and most esteemed citizens of Belmont County, whose years but illustrate his wonderful vitality, resides on his fine farm in Warren township, near Barnesville, and is the center of a devoted family circle.

Few venerable citizens remain whose births antedate the War of 1812, but Mr. Gibbons is one of these, his birth taking place on September 27, 1811, when the chief magistrate of this great country was James Madison. He has seen generations come and go, and still retains his active interest in general affairs and bears his 91 years with the ease of a man in middle age. His parents were Homer and Martha (South) Gibbons, natives of Virginia and New Jersey, respectively, the former of whom left his native State in early life and settled in Jefferson County, Ohio.. His wife came to this State in 1800, and her parents also settled in Jefferson County. They became the parents of these children: John, Mary, Homer, Enoch, Jesse, James and Sarah, deceased, while the living ones are: Joseph, Robert, Samuel B., William and Borden.

Joseph Gibbons was born in Belmont County, on his father's farm, where he spent his earlv davs, and attended the district schools in his locality. He grew to manhood engaged in agricultural pursuits, and, having been industrious and provident, had accumulated a considerable sum of money by the time he was readv to establish a home of his own. In 1836 he was united in marriage with Penina Williams, daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Arnold) Williams, who were natives of South . Carolina, settling in Ohio about 1800. Mrs. Gibbons was born in 1817 and after a life of 71 years, filled with good deeds and kind acts, she passed out of life on January 16, 1888. The children born to this happy marriage were the following: Elam,-born October 23, 1838; Eli W., born June 27, 1840; Edmund, born July 28, 1842; Samuel and Homer, twins, born in 1844; Sarah, born June 13, 1845, died July 10. 1846; James S. and Mary H., twins, born March 19, 1847: Joseph B., born February 6, 1850; Anna and Martha, twins, born June 26,

Mr. Gibbons for some years has lived free from all business care, although quite capable of actively managing his former interests. Through life he has been an enterprising man and at all times has testified his willingness to assist in the developing of his county. His estimable character and long and useful life have attached many friends to him, who take pride in his vigor, in spite of his advanced age. They hope he may be spared yet many years to show the results of a life which has been devoted to the honest accumulation of means and to the welfare of his family and neighborhood. Mr. Gibbons is a member of the Society of Friends.

1.20, ROBERTS, residing tatn Now TO Washington street, Martin's Ferry, has for 20 years occupied the position of sheet roller in the rolling mill of this city, exercising the same perserverance and determination in regular work that he previously exhibited as a soldier in the War of the Rebellion. He was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, September:22, 1847, and ista son"of E.*Wi'and Emily (Cook) Roberts.

E. W. Roberts was one of the first sheet rollers in this country, and followed this occupation for the most part throughout his business life. Läte in years he settled in Sharon, Pennsylvania, where he was engaged at his trade for the rest of his life. He died July 23, 1872, at the age of 62. During his young manhood he married Emily Cook. She survived her husband, dying in 1879 in her 63rd year. A pleasing woman, spiritually minded, and gifted with the most charming feminine traits, she won the friendship of all who knew her. Mr. and Mrs. Robert had ten children - the first died in Pittsburg at the age of 13 years; three died young, Ruth Anna and Joanna, who were twins, and Joseph; the fifth never married; Elizabeth, now

South Penn street, Wheeling Island. The other children are Louisa, who has never married; John C.; William S., an iron worker for the past 11 years, and Emma, who married Baldwin Chew, and has since died at the age of 47. Mr. Roberts was a liberal supporter of the Baptist Church. His wife belonged to the Methodist Church.

J. C. Roberts procured his education at Niles, Ohio, where it was his privilege to be a schoolmate of William McKinley, our late President. As boys they were intimately associated, played mumblety-peg together and other childish games. Later in life they both served their State as soldiers in the Civil War. It was in September, 1861, in Company G, Igth Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf, that Mr. Roberts enlisted. Entering the Army of the Cumberland, he with his regiment fought at Shiloh, April 6 and 7, 1862; at Perryville, Kentucky, October 8, 1862; at Stone River, Tennessee, January 2, 1863, and at Chickamauga, September 19 and 20, 1863. He also took part in the closing battles of the war, was in the Atlanta campaign, and fought at Franklin and Nashvilie under General Thomas. His first enlistment expired near the close of 1862, and on January 1, 1863, he again re-enlisted, serving in all four years and two months. He was mustered out in November, 1865. In the battle of Stone River, Tennessee, he was appointed one of a force to guard a train of ammunition and provisions, which the Rebels were determined to possess if possible. The struggle was a fierce one, and the Southern cavalry did succeed in capturing the train and taking prisoners of the guard, Mr. Roberts among them; but half an hour later the captain of the 7th Pennsylvania Regiment, with his cavalry, retook both the train and the prisoners. Mr. Roberts was wounded with buckshot once during the war, and not having hurt attended to until the next day, suffered considerable pain, but no serious injury resulted from the mishap. Considering the severe fighting in which he was engaged, his escape was almost miraculous. Out of 101 men who first enlisted in his company, only three returned from the war, and he was one of the three. Since the war Mr. Roberts has been engaged steadily in the rolling-mill business. In 1882 he took a position as a sheet roller in a mill at Martin's Ferry, and, giving excellent satisíaction, he has remained here ever since.

Mr. Roberts has never married, but gives his time mainly to his business and to society, He belongs to the Elks and to the Amalga- © mated Association. of Iron, Steel & Tin Workers, and has served as an officer in each society. As a Civil War veteran he belongs to the.G. A. R. He possesses much force of character and makes a success of whatever he undertakes.

WILLIAM LUTHER PATTON, postmaster of Fairpoint, Belmont County, Ohio, is also the owner of a flourishing mercantile business at that place, and is one of the foremost citizens of Wheeling township. He was born June 8, 1849, a son of William and Anna (Clark) Patton, and still resides on his native place, owning a fine farm on the outskirts of the town, where he and his family live very comfortably.

William Patton, the father, was born near Belfast, Ireland, in County Down, in 1799, but immigrated to this country with his parents. He was an honest, straightforward citizen and a man of very firm opinions. He married Anna Clark, who was born in 1810, a daughter of Alexander Clark of Lancaster County, of the Keystone State. The early education of Mr. Patton was exceedingly limited, for he attended school but six weeks in his life. However, he had an apt, inquiring mind, and succeeded in teaching himself so well that he prospered in his business life and accumulated considerable wealth. This wealth he afterward divided among his twelve children, nine of whom were sons, - their names will be mentioned later. In his occupation as general farmer he made a specialty of raising fine stock, and in this branch he was doubly successful and made the greater part of his wealth. At his death, which occurred in 1872 at the age of 73 years, each of his living sons was given a farm. The death of Mrs. Patten occurred in 1885, when she was 75 years of age. Mr. Patton was a Seceder in religious opinions, but his wife was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and during the greater part of his married life Mr. Patton also attended that church, having united with it in later life, and he served faithfully as ruling elder many years. He took no interest in politics, since even in his day he considered them immoral, but from the beginning of the slavery question -he was an Abolitionist, although he had. nothing to do with the "Underground Railroad" system. He was a member of no sect or order, as his religious ideas forbade it, but he did his part as a citizen to assist in enterprises of worth, and his fellowmen found in him a ready assistant in time of need.

Our subject's brothers and sisters were as follows: Samuel, born in 1830, who died in 1857, when pastor of the United Presbytenan Church of Detroit, was a graduate of the U. P. Seminary at Canonsburg, and it is said preached his first sermon when 20 years of age. He left a widow to mourn for him, her name having been Jennie Lee of Cadiz, Ohio, before her marriage. Margaret, born in 1832, became the wife of Rev. J. P. Robb of Sidney, Ohio, in 1859, he being pastor of the United Presbyterian Church at that place, and they have a daughter, who was educated at Washington Seminary at Washington, Pennsylvania. John, who was born in 1834, and lives at St. Clairsville, Ohio, was united in marriage with Lauretta Thompson, a daughter of Major Thomas Thompson, and has three children. His education was obtained at Franklin College, which he left when the war broke out and became a membertorttherosth Reg. O. :V.- E" Eleanor. born in 1836, became the wife of Rev. Josiah Stevenson of Bellevue, Pennsylvania, a United Presbyterian, who recently went to

Ireland and gathered complete data of the Patton family; they have been blessed with eight children. Alexander C., born in 1838, followed farming as a vocation, and when the Civil War broke out enlisted in the 170th Reg., O. V. I., and became a captain later. He married Agnes Sharp of Uniontown, Ohio, and they had two children and lived in Springfield, Ohio, where the father died in 1900. Caroline was born in 1840 and married Addison Lysle of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, a prominent coal dealer, residing in Allegheny, and they had one child. Mrs. Lysle was educated in Washington Seminary and graduated from that institution.- James, born in 1842, chose Elizabeth Dunbar, a daughter of Willam Dunbar, of Uniontown, Ohio, for his wife, and they had three children when she died. He married a second time, this time choosing Agnes Cook, daughter of James Cook of New Athens, Ohio. George M., born in 1844, served in the war as a member of the 98th Reg., O. V. L, and married Louise M. Campbell, a daughter of Dr. John Campbell of Uniontown, who bore him six children. Calvin W., who was born in 1846, was a member of the 170th Reg., O. V. L, during the Civil War, and was united in marriage with Harriet Dunbar and later with Dora Troll, who bore him two children, John T. and C. G. Mrs. Patton formerly resided in St. Clairsville, Ohio. Sylvanus was born in 1852 and died ni 1803, aged "twelve. years Lomas |l. born in 1855, married Jennie McKee of Uniontown, and lives at Alliance, Ohio. They have four children. An only brother of our subject's father died when but 20 years old.

William Luther Patton led Maggie R. Mc- Nary, daughter of John McNary, of Belmont County, to the hymeneal altar in 1873. She was born in 1850 and had two brothers. Her scholastic training was obtained in Frankhn College, and she and our subject have four children, namely, Lodalee, born November 2, 1874; Park, born in December, 1879; A. Van, born May 5, 1883, and Nellie Mc-

Nary, born in 1885. They are still residents of the home farm with their parents, and the two eldest children have attended college to obtain the best education possible. Lodalee graduated at Franklin College in New Athens, Ohio, the third in rank in her class. Park graduated from the High School at St. Clairsville, at Franklin College also, and took a business course at the business college at Poughkeepsie, thus fitting himself thoroughly for the position he occupies as professor of mathematics in Curry College of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. A. Van has graduated from the High School at St. Clairsville, also is clerking in his father's store, but his parents believe that children should not be sent to school too young, and he will be given ample Opportunity to take a more advanced course at some college at a later date.

Mr. Patton has had charge of the duties at the post office since 1886, except about six months during Cleveland's administration, and he has proved a most valuable man for the place, being of an accommodating, cheerful nature. He has built up a hustling business and has the best patronage of the village, which speaks for his ability as a merchant and his popularity as a citizen.

JOHN AMRINE, whose death occurred August 27, 1901, at Bridgeport, Ohio, was born in Belmont County, Ohio, January 10, 1820, and he lived practically all his life in his native county.

He was a son of Peter and Nancy Amrine, who were among the hardy pioneeer settlers of Ohio. His mother died in 1832 of cholera. The family then removed to Perry County, Ohio. John did not like his new home, and, with his father's permission, returned to Belmont County; although only a boy of 12, he walked all the way back, and thus young John Amrine started upon his own resources in the race of life.

At the age of 30 years he was united in marriage with Deborah Enlow, a daughter of Jacob and Rachel Enlow, who were also pioneer residents of Belmont County. From this union they had a family of nine children, of whom Mary B., the widow of Jeremiah Sturgeon; Virginia A., the wife of Milton McConnaughy; Miss Gertrude H. and Fred S. Amrine are still living; and Frank H., who died in I895, leaving a widow, Mrs. Jessie Bailey Amrine, and one child, Frank.

Soon after his marriage, John Amrine engaged in the coal boating business with Hugh McNeely and others, and although this business did not prove very lucrative, yet he gave $200 of his meager savings to build the First

Bridgeport, and in later years proved his devotion to the cause of Christianity by giving liberally toward the erection of the other two brick Methodist Episcopal Churches in Kirkwood.

He was public spirited and was the first to take stock in the Aetna Mill in 1873, and was later a charter member of the re-organized Aetna-Standard Mills.

John Amrine was a true and earnest patriot during the great war for the Union, and throughout his life he loved to talk and read of Lincoln, Grant, Garfield, McKinley and others of our good and great. He was an ardent Republican.

family; and thus we see this boy with the | rough exterior of pioneer life, without a moth- | er's love to guide or a father's hand to pro- | tect, no parental roof, and with but little school privileges, and yet making life a success.

With the practice of industry, economy and sobriety, and being possessed of many of the finer sterling qualities of heart and mind, John. Amrine walked amid the rough environments of a life on the river and the crude tinies of his early days, and yet he became the honored | citizen, the good friend and the worthy Chris- | tian gentleman.

He was cast in a gentle mold, and yet he was ever firm and steadíast for the right. He loved fair dealing, and his genial manner made and kept all who knew him his friends.

In his last illness he found delight in giving Christian advice and counsel to all who came to his bedside. His last hours were a fit ending of an upright, exemplary life, R

Soothed and sustained by an unfaltering trust, he "approached the grave like one who wraps the drapery of his couch about him and lies down to pleasant dreams." i

ELI S. MORGAN, one of the progressive _agriculturists of Wheeling township, Belmont County, manages not only his own large and well-kept farm, but also a still larger one for his mother. Possessed of a large capacity for work, and being one who attends strietly to his own business, he has accumulated considerable property, including some of the best-bred stock. He comes of a family of soil tillers, and was born on the Belmont County homestead December 19, 1865, son of Philip and Sarah (Seebirt) Morgan.

George V. Morgan, grandfather of Eli S., was born in 1775. In the early days he moved to Ohio, being one of the pioneers -of the rich agricultural districts of this State. Here he purchased what was known as the | Mintier farm, where he passed many busy

Philip Morgan, son of George V. and father of Eli S., was also a prominent agriculturist of this section, purchasing and managing the homestead where the son now resides. Born in Uniontown, Ohio, in 1819, he procured his education in the common schools of his vicinity. Preparatory to an occupation in life, as a youth he entered a tannery and there learned a trade, at which in time he became very proficient During his young manhood he purchased the farm already referred to, in Wheeling township. This place he cleared and broke, and greatly improved. As he also added to its area, occasionally, by large land purchases, it at one © time embraced 514 acres. January 5, 1845,

Mr. Morgan married Sarah Seebirt, an attractive girl of 18, born in 1825, daughter of Eli and Caroline Seebirt, and granddaughter of Adam Seebirt, who was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, resided there for many years, and later crossed the mountains and became one of the pioneer settlers of Ohio. To Mr.,and Mrs. Eli Seebirt were born two children, - Sarah, and Eli, born in 1827, died in 1898. Mrs. Morgan, now 78, has been a hard-working woman all her life, She was reared in this vicinity, and attended for many years the Wheeling Valley public schools. In religious circles she is especially prominent, and has been a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church for nearly 40 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Morgan were born nine children: Mary Ellen, born January 24, 1846, received a common school education, married Harvey Rusk, a farmer, now deceased, who resided on his family homestead in Richland township, near Fairpoint, in Belmont County, and they had six children, - Addison E., Elmer, Sadie, Marshall, Ina, and Ross. The father died in 1890, and the family still reside on the homestead. Marshall J., second child of Philip Morgan, ' born September 26, 1847, married Mary Close, daughter of John Close, who resides near St. Clairsville, Belmont County, and they had two children, - Philip, and Leota, who resides east of the Morgan farm, near the Valley Church. Martha A., born August 14, 1849, married Samuel Coleman, of Wheeling township, and they have three children. Melissa J., born October I4, I851, married Charles Love, son of Rev. Mr. Love, and they reside in Athens. They have two children. John, born November I3, 1853, who received his education in the common schools of Wheeling township, and they live on Athens Pike, near the toll gate, and are the parents of five children, - Wilbur, Lyle, Marshall, Robert, and Linnie. Milton, born November 14, 1856, died at the age of six years. Ada, born April 24, 1859, married William P. Hedges, and they reside near Cadiz, Ohio. Linnie (Euphemia Ulinda) born June 18, 1861, married Rusk Love, and they reside in Wheeling township. They have two children, - Everett and Phil. Eli S. is mentioned below. Mr. Morgan was a man highly respected in his community, possessed marked integrity and was especially influential in religious circles, serving as elder in the Presbyterian Church at Valley Church for 25 years. His children were also members of this church.

Eli S. Morgan received the ordinary rearing of a farm boy, attending the common schools regularly for a number of years, and taking a helping hand in the usual farm duties. Upon reaching manhood he began farming on the homestead, and after the addition to carrying on this place he manages 763 acres of land, which he purchased for himself. This he has also greatly im- . proved, and has largely under cultivation. Keeping abreast of the times, he applies progressive methods in farming and at the same time is extremely practical. :

In February, 1892, Mr. Morgan married Mary Hutchison, daughter of John and Sadie Hutchison, of St. Clairsville, Ohio. Mrs. Morgan is a highly cultivated woman, and received her education in the common schools and Franklin College. By this marriage there have been five children: John Hutchison, born March 3, 1894; Sarah Ada, born February 16, 1896; Emma Lucinda, born March 3, 1898, who died in the same year at the age of six months; Lucinda Rose, born May 27, 1899; and Russell Seebirt, born December 18, 1901.

Mr. Morgan has achieved success in life by attending strictly to his own duties. He gives but little attention to public affairs, and has never sought office. Like his father, however, he votes the Democratic ticket. He is a man of firm religious convictions and belongs to the Presbyterian Church.

HON. ROSS J. ALEXANDER, a mest highly esteemed residerit of Bridgeport, Ohio, has been a prominent figure in professional and political life in Belmont County for a number of years, resigning the cares of business in 1894, after a successful and honorable career.

Mr. Alexander claims an old and honored ancestry. The first member of this branch of the Alexander family of which we find authentic mention was James Alexander, the great-great-grandfather of our subject, who was born in 1706 near Campbelltown, Scotland, and who came to the United States in

May 9, 1817, at the age of 84 years. He served during the Revolutionary War with the Pennsylvania troops, his home being in the vicinity of York, in that State. He was buried in the Alexander Cemetery at South Ridge, in Belmont County, Ohio. James Alexander (2) was twice married, his first wife, Margaret Wilson, dying in Scotland, leaving four children, namely, Andrew, James, Margaret and Jane, - the eldest of these, James (3), being our subject's grandfather. The second marriage was to Margaret Clarke Ross, and seven children were born to this union.

James Alexander (3), the grandfather of Hon. Ross J. Alexander, was born in Scotland, came to the United States in 1766, and died May 11, 1852, at the age of 95 years. He married Isabella Ross and had a family of ten children, namely, Margaret, James, Agnes, Jane W., Isabella R., John, Jenetta, Peter, Robert Jefferson and Lavinia, all of whom have passed away. Of this family Agnes, born May I5, 1792, was the first white child born in Belmont County. She died February 20, 1825. Her marriage was to Robert Gray, and of their four children James A., lately deceased, was a banker at Martin's Ferry, Ohio.

Robert Jefferson Alexander, the father of our subject, was born October 6, 1806, and died January 30, 1863. On November 1, 1831, he married Mary A. Jennings, a native of Belmont County, and a daughter of David

Jennings, for many years prominent in political life as State Senator and member of Congress, and for 15 years county prosecuting attorney. Mrs. Alexander was one of a.

family of six children born to her parents, viz, Mary A., Rachel R., Jacob D., David L., Jonathan G. and Margaret L., - Jonathan G. being the only survivor. The Jennings family is an honorable one in a number of the States of the Union. Jacob Jennings, the maternal great-great-grandfather of our subject, served as a minute man in the militia

Kennedy, a daughter of Rev. Samuel Kennedy. Jacob Jennings (2), our subject's greatgrandfather, also participated in the Revolutionary War, and the document is in the family's possession which tells that he was captain of the Jersey Blues and a surgeon in .the Sussex County Militia during this period. He was severely wounded at the battle of Trenton, December 26, 1776, and bore the marks of the conflict until his death. At the age of 40 years he was licensed to preach by the Dutch Reformed Church and removed to Virginia, and in 1802 served at Pittsburg as the first moderator of the synod. Mrs. Alexander was a niece of the distinguished Jonathan Jennings, who was the first Governor of the State of Indiana and for whom a county in the southeastern part of that State was named, and the State of Indiana has recently erected a $5,000 monument to his memory.

Robert Jefferson Alexander was an able attorney and practiced all his life in Belmont County, serving through two terms as county prosecuting attorney, and was the first judge of the Court of Common Pleas under the new Constitution of 1851, his term covering five years of service. His interest was pronounced in the fostering of public educational enterprises, and he favored legislation for the advancement of agricultural opportunities. Mr. Alexander was born on October 6, 1806, and through a period of 57 years was one of the most useful citizens of Belmont County. The children born to this first marriage were as follows: Theresa, who is Mrs. K. S. Boreman, of Parkersburg, West Virginia; Ross. J.. who 1s the subject of this sketch. Robert J., who is a resident of the State of Washington, and William W., who resides at Akron, Ohio. The mother of these children died in I844 at the age of 33 years. The second marriage of Mr. Alexander was to a sister of his first wife, Rachel R., who was the widow of Wiliam H. Tallman, the one daughter born to this union being Mary Ann, the wife of James Murray, of Wheeling, West Virginia.

in Belmont County on Christmas Day, 1834. He was reared in a home of refinement and intelligence and was offered excellent educational advantages. From Linsly Institute in Wheeling he went to Franklin College, Ohio, and later graduated with the highest honors in the class of 1834 from Washington and Jefferson College, in Pennsylvania. Under his eminent father he studied law and was admitted to practice in December, 1856, locating in St. Clairsville. For a period of I8 years Mr. Alexander carried on a large and absorbing practice in that place, removing in 1872 to Bridgeport, only to change the location, not the nature or volume, of his business. Many honors have been shown our subject by appreciative fellow citizens. For 12 years he was master commissioner of the county and for two terms he was the municipal head of the city of St. Clairsville. He has served as a member of the Bridgeport Council a number of times, has been a member of and president of the Bridgeport School Board for many years, and has been identified with all public enterprises of lasting value. During two years he was an efficient member of the Ohio Legislature, rendering his party yeoman service during the administration of President Cleveland. He also served in the far West as a member of the Puyallup Indian Commission of the State of Washington, in _ all of these varied responsible offices upholding the dignity of the position and conscientiously performing the many duties.

On July 14, 1858, Mr. Alexander was united in marriage with Margaretta Askew, a native of St. Clairsville and a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (McElroy) Askew, the latter of whom was a daughter of John Mc- Elroy, who was a captain in the War of 1812. A family of four children were born to our subject and wife, as follows: Marian, who married William Alexander, resides in Kansas City, Kansas, and they have two children, Askew and Ross J.; Lillian, who married Frank Sigel, resides at Kansas City, Missouri, and has two daughters, Margaret and lein, a prominent attorney of Bridgeport, and their children are Margaret, George and Dorothy; and St. Clair, of Kansas City, Missouri. Both our subject and wife are leading members of the Presbyterian Church. He is a well-known member of the Masonic, order and has held the highest positions in lodge, chapter and commandery, and has been a delegate many times to all the grand bodies in the State. From his youth he has been interested in politics, and is an ardent advocate of unadulterated Jeffersonian Democracy.

WILLIAM H. McCARTNEY, who during life was one of the substantial and highly esteemed citizens of Belmont County, was born at Linton Mills, Coshocton County, Ohio, June 28, 1840, a son of David and Elizabeth (Heslop) McCartney, the former of whom was born in 1816. On March 21, 1837, he married Elizabeth Heslop, and they reared a family of four children. David McCartney was an extensive farmer and also engaged in the banking business at Fort Howard, Wisconsin. He died at Thomasville, Georgia.

For a number of years William H. Mc- Cartney was associated with his father in business and became well and favorably known. He was married to Martha Hunt, who was born November 30, 1842, a daughter of Philip Hunt, of Maryland, who was a well-known stockman and extensive farmer. The union resulted in the birth of the following children: Nellie, who married Dr. J. W. Wellons, one of the rising young physicians of Barnesville, a son of the distinguished Dr. G. S. Wellons; and Jesse T., who was born May 10, 1873, and who is attending the Ohio Medical College. He will graduate in 1903. He resides with his mother on the old homestead, located within a quarter of a mile of the city of Barnesville. This estate comprises 47 acres of well-improved land, while the stately brick vicinity. Jesse T. McCartney, like his father, is identified with the Republican party, and is one of the popular young men of this locality. The family is one held in high esteem throughout Warren township. William H. McCartney was a member of the Presbyterian Church. He died September 29, 1901. Mrs. McCartney is a member of the M. E. Church of Barnesville, Ohio.

JOHN WATSON, a representative farmer and eminent citizen of Wheeling township, Belmont County, Ohio, where so many years of his life have been spent upon a farm, has followed agricultural pursuits to very good advantage, having accumulated quite a competency, and is highly respected in his community for his many excellent qualities. Mr. Watson was born January Ig, 1829, in Washington County, Pennsylvania, on a farm near Canonsburg. He now owns 315 acres, which includes one-fourth of the old Hammond farm, which was acquired as a legacy to his by our subject, and also the farm upon which our subject resides, which was purchased by him some time since. The handsome residence and other substantial improvements were all made by Mr. Watson, who carries on general farming in the most approved manner, but makes a specialty of raising fine sheep; in fact, a great deal of his money has been made on sheep alone, but he also raises a limited number of horses, cattle, hogs, etc.

Thomas Watson, the father of our subject, was a blacksmith by trade, and at one time resided in Canonsburg. He subsequently removed to the farm near that place, where our subject was born, and there continued in the blacksmith business for several years. He married Jane, the eldest daughter of William Hays, who lived at Plum Run, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and who reared a family of seven children.

deceased except three sisters, who reside at Canonsburg, and one brother, James F., is a resident of Indiana. James, the eldest son, died at the early age of nine years, and Rachel at ten years. William died in Belmont County in 1889, and Nancy passed to her rest the same year, while Catherine died as recently as IQOI.

December 18, 1867, Mr. Watson was united in marriage with Mary Elizabeth Hammond, the ceremony which bound them for life taking place at St. Clairsville, Ohio. The first two years of their married life were spent by the young people in Pennsylvania, after which they removed to the farm formerly owned by subject's father-in-law and which was originally the property of Robert Hammond, the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Wat- _ son. This grandfather was a member of the Seceders' Church, which afterward was absorbed by the United Presbyterian. He died in 1845, and' his homestead passed to his youngest son, James Hammond, the father of Mrs. Watson, and was later purchased by our subject.

The elder Hammonds were of Irish descent and were natives of Washington County, Pennsylvania. James Hammond followed farming during all his active years. After passing his 6oth milestone he left the farm, which was the birthplace of Mrs. Watson, and removed to St. Clairsville, where the closing years of his life were spent. He attained the age of 72 years and left quite a comfortable estate to his family. He pos-^ sessed but a common-school education, but close application to business brought its wellearned freedom from toil during his last years. Both he and his wife were members of the United Presbyterian Church. He was twice married. By his first union, with Jane Caldwell, three children were born, two of whom still survive, Mrs. Watson being the eldest of the family. She has one sister, residing in Waterloo, Iowa. By his union with

Mrs. Watson was born in 1841. Her maternal grandfather, John Caldwell, emigrated to this. country from Ireland. He died in Pittsburg from a malignant fever, and two or three of his sisters succumbed to the malady also. The father of Mrs. Watson was brought to Ohio by his parents at the age of three years. His parents located at that time on the old Hammond farm, which the elder Hammond cleared from the woods. The mother of Mrs. Watson was a native of Ireland and accompanied her parents to this country when seven years old. She was born in 1812 and died in 1850. She was reared principally in Pennsylvania and came to Belmont County when a young woman. Her husband was born May 13, 1808, and survived her many years, 1880 marking the date of his death.

Four children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Watson, as follows: James Hays, born February 5, 1870; William W., born August 6, 1871; Ella Jane, born September 9, 1873. and J. Walter, born November 12, 1878. James H. married Amanda Watson on the igth day of March, daughter of Andrew Watson of Guernsey County. born in February, 1897; John Melvin, born in 1898; William G., born in January, 1900, and twins, born in November, 1901, their names being Winfield Hays and Mary Helen.

William W. is still unmarried and remains at home on the farm. He was liberally educated at Franklin College at New Athens, Ohio. Ella Jane, the eldest daughter, was educated at the same institution. January 3, 1900, she married Jay B. Patton, and resides in Harrison County, Ohio.

ers and sister, was sent to Franklin College. from which he graduated. For the past two years he has attended the United Presbyterian Seminarv at Alleshenv, Pennsylvania, where he is taking a theological course. He |

Mr. Watson is a man of broad, liberal ideas. He has spent a great deal of money in rearing his family, and his children are all the recipients of a liberal education. Two of his sons, James and William W., have chosen the vocation of their father and will be farmers. In politics our subject was a faithful adherent of the Republican party up to 1884. He was present at a political meeting in Pittsburg in 1856, and during the same year cast his vote for Fremont. During the campaign of 1884 he worked hard-for Blaine, but the latter's attitude on the prohibition question in Maine soured him on Blaine and the Republican party also. Since then Mr. Watson has used his vote and influence with the Prohibitionists. However, he has never been a politician, but has done his duty as a citizen, having served on the election board, as supervisor and in various other capacities.

lifelong member of the United Presbyterian Church. He has been an elder of the same since 1871, and has served upon several occasions as a delegate to the General Assem- at Allegheny in May, 1902. Both he and his wife can remember attending church in the early days, listening to a sermon in the forenoon, and after a luncheon another sermon of more than the average length was delivered in the afternoon. Mr. Watson has

JOHN DuBOIS, a noted lumber dealer and manufacturer of Bellaire, Ohio, is indigenous to Belmont County, his birth having taken place June 4, 1838, in Colerain township. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Douglas) Du Bois, both natives of County Antrim, Ireland, where their marriage vows were exchanged. Five children were born to them before they left their native land. After emigration they settled in Belmont County, Ohio and in time four more children were born to them. The father was a blacksmith by trade and followed that occupation for some years with such success that he purchased a farm in Colerain township and engaged in argicultural pursuits. Success crowned his efforts and he acquired a large amount of land. He died in 1880, having previously lost his companion and helpmeet in 1857.

Mr. DuBois has one brother living, Maj. Joseph M. DuBois, of Dallas, Texas, who served during the Civil War in the 15th Ohio Regiment and rendered valuable services to our country. The subject of this "narrative remained at home upon his father's farm until he attained the age of 35 years, and he still owns and manages the homestead farm in Colerain township. He located in Bellaire in 1876, succeeding in the lumber business his brother, Alexander, whose demise took place about that time. Mr. DuBois has followed that line of work constantly ever since. In 1880 he built a planing mill on Central avenue and Harrison street. This mill has been operated for nearly a quarter of a cen- 'tury under the firm name of DuBois & Mc- Coy, and turns out a large amount of work. Mr. DuBois has been twice married. In early manhood he married Margaret Frazier, who died in October, 1888, leaving seven sons, as follows: James F., whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume; John A.; Samuel L., a minister of the United Presbyterian Church; Joseph M., ex-city treasurer and at present bookkeeper at the mill; David Douglas, a law student at Columbus; Charles McConkey, who died at the early ace of four years, and Lawrence Lorain, who is also employed at the mill.

Some time after the decease of his first wife our subject married the present Mrs. DuBois, whose maiden name was Sarah Atkinson: she was reared near Wheeling, West Virginia. The family prefer the religion of the United Presbyterian Church. Politically, Mr. DuBois is an ardent Republican, and although not a politician, he has been honored with the confidence of the people in his community and has served his party faithfully. From 1892 to 1894 he served as mayor of Bellaire, and his administration of city affairs during his term was commendable. As a business man he is straightforward and upright in his dealings, and he has few equals in the lumber business. Years of constant toil have brought to him a well-deserved reward, and he has long since reached an enviable position financially. He has a beautiful home which he built some time ago at No. 4211 Noble street. His office is located on Central avenue.

THOMAS D. FRITTER, a well-known and prosperous farmer of Belmont County, located in section 17, Union township, near Lafferty, was born in Belmont County on

Ann (Perkins) Fritter, both of whom were natives of Belmont County, the former a son of Moses and Sarah Fritter, of Stafford County. Humphrey Fritter was born in 1808 and died in 1866, aged 58 years. He owned a fine farm of 50 acres in Goshen township and there reared his family, became a prominent citizen, and served for a long period as one of the school directors. His wife was a daughter of Stephen and Catherine Perkins, natives of Frederick County, Virginia, making her home in section 17, Union township, until her death, September 4, 1902. Seven children were born to our subject's parents, he being the second in order of birth, the others being as follows: Sarah C., who married J. W. Hartsock, of Warren County, Ohio; Cilicia A., who married A.B. Phillips, lives in Meade County, South Dakota; Stephen W., who resides in Flushing township, is a farmer; Francis, who is a farmer and resides in this county, adjoining our subject; Martha, who

Thomas D. Fritter, of this biography, attended school in Belmont County, and later spent some time at study in Franklin College. He has devoted his life to farming, owning nine acres of land individually and 150 acres in conjunction with his mother's estate, all of it being very valuable on account of its being underlaid with coal. This has not yet been developed, but the land is very fertile, and under Mr. Fritter's excellent management yields generously. He is no politician, but a man of extensive reading, owning and enjoying a large and wellselected library and keeping in touch with the literature of the day. He is a member of the Masonic order and has filled all of the offices of Flushing Lodge, No. 298, of Flushing, Ohio, temporarily. Several years since he accepted the office of land appraiser, but cares little for political honors or public place. He deservedly stands well as a substantial and worthy citizen of Union township.

DAVID B. LONG, widely known in Belmont County as a veteran of the late Civil War, raises choice fruits and garden truck, etc., on his well tilled farm, about one and a half miles west of Bellaire. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Kilgore) Long, grandson of Jacob Long and was born on the present site of the city of Bellaire, January 22, 1829.

Jacob Long was a substantial Pennsylvania Dutchman, and was a native of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. His business career was a success in every way; he hauled salt, when that commodity was worth $3 per bushel, and followed wagoning across the mountains to a great extent.

John Long, our subject's father, was born and reared in Mead township, Belmont County, and became one of the residents of Pultney township previous to the birth of our sub- | ject. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Kilgore, and they had a family of 11 children, whose names will be given later. Mr. Long died when 73 years of age in 1878, leaving his farm and its interests to the care of his widow and her children. Mrs. Long survived until 1884, when she too passed away, at the age of 84 years.

Our subject's brothers and sisters are as follows : Jacob, who is a dairyman, living south of Bellaire; William, residing in Pultney township, as does also his brother Alexander; Nancy Jane and Sybil, residents of Belmont County, one of whom resides at Cambridge; John, whose demise took place in the spring of 1902; Joseph, who died in the army; and three sisters, Martha, Mackey and Margaret, who are deceased.

The intellectual training of David B. Long was derived from the common schools of Pultney township, and his first active employment was tound on the farm, where he worked until the beginning of the Civil War. At that time, he, together with all his brothers except Jacob, enlisted to serve his country, becoming a member of Company H, 61st Reg. Ohio Vol. Inf., and served as orderly sergeant of the company. He participated in many battles of importance and served, altogether, three years and two months, being mustered out of service in the spring of 1865. On August 20, 1864, while im line of battle under General Hooker at Peach Tree Creek, he was wounded, the ball striking his right shoulder and causing the amputation of his arm, on which account he has received a liberal pension for many years. He was also in the battle of Gettysburg with the -11th and 12th Army Corps, which were later sent to the Southwest and consolidated to form the 20th Army Corps.

At the close of the war, Mr. Long returned home and entered into the stock business - feeding, buving and selling with great profit. He spent 18 years in this manner on his farm, three miles west of Bellaire, and finally decided to journev west to Kansas. He chose his location in Labette County and spent two vears, 1884-86, there, but the crops were not what he had expected and he was troubled with the ague, all of which led to his removal to his native place. Arriving once more at the scenes of his boyhood years, he built his present home, about IO years ago, and has met with unqualifed success in business affairs since.

Mr. Long was married to Cynthia A. Shahan, in July, 1849. She was born and reared near Shadyside, Belmont County. Six sons and four daughters have been born to this union, namely : Harmon, John, James, Samuel, Edwin, George, Sarah Jane, Isabelle, Alice and Cynthia G. The last three are still residents of Belmont County. Sarah Jane lives in the State of Washington. George 1s a carpenter and also conducts a store near Warwick. Edwin and Samuel are farmers and fruit growers in Michigan. Samuel is a minister of the Gospel. James farms in Belmont County, and Harmon follows agricultural pursuits in Champaign County, Ohio. The family are Methodists in their religious convictions, the father having joined the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1849. In political affairs he is a true Republican and has served as township trustee, besides holding various other offices. He was formerly a member of the G. A. R. In all affairs which he undertakes he possesses the unbounded confidence and well wishes of his fellow citizens, and he has always been a credit to his community.

tive farmer and popular citizen of Wheeling township, Belmont County, Ohio, was born on the fine farm which he now owns and operates, on April 23, 1857, a son of James F. Merritt, who died when William A. was but two years of age.

Daniel Merritt, the great-grandíather of our subject, entered 640 acres of land from the government in 1805, and our subject has in his possession the patent deed for the same, bearing the signatures of President Jefferson and Secretary of State James Madison. Daniel Merritt served as an officer through the Revolutionary War, and left his sword and belt to his descendants. These were in the possession of our subject's father, but after his death, on March 18, 1859, were partially destroyed by fire. The sword with its silver mountings was turned into a corncutter and into silver rings, both now lost. Daniel Merritt was born August I5, 1750, and died on this farm after living upon it some 20 years; his brother, who was a surveyor, platted it. He reared a family of six children, three sons and three daughters, by his wife, Nancy Merritt, who was born February 2, 1762. These children were: Polly, Betsey, Plesy, John, William, and Josiah.

John Merritt; son of Daniel and grandfather of our subject, was born May 7, 1797, married Sarah Ferguson and died on this farm on January 11, 1841. Their children were the following: James F., born February 18, 1820; Daniel, born November 27, 1821; Anna, born March 4, 1824; Nancy, born May 21, 1826; and Josiah, born August 31, 1828. John's wife, Sarah, died October 7, 1834, and he married Margaret Armstrong October 15, 1835, and these children were born: Sarah, born July 18, 1836; Mary Jane, born March 18, 1840; and John.

James Merritt, the father of our subject, married Christina Lodge on May 14, 1846, and the children born to this union were: Tamzen, born May 9, 1847, married Byron Hoge, of Wheeling township, and died October 15, 1889, leaving three sons, James B., Arthur W., and Frank G., all of whom are in business in Cleveland; Sarah C., born August I5, I850, resides with our subject, William A., of this sketch.